Oh wow, it feels like I'm in a live-action adaptation of some sort,' Lucian thought in amazement. 'Their tones, their distinctive personalities... You'd never guess these guys were once just NPCs.'

Glancing at Momonga, he could tell his guildmate was having the exact same thoughts.

"Guardians of the great tomb of nazarick, you all did well to gather here on time, thank you, now rise your heads"

Albedo jumped up to Lucian upon hearing those words "Lord Lucian! Your thanks is wasted upon us, we here have all pledged ourselves to the supreme beings!"

"Oh?"

"Lord Lucian, Lord Momonga, we humbly acknowledge our imperfections," Albedo began, her voice steady and filled with determination. "However, we vow to dedicate ourselves fully, striving to meet the expectations of the Supreme Beings who created us."

As her declaration ended, the other guardians echoed her sentiment in unison,

"We vow this to you!"

Lucian glanced at Momonga, giving him a subtle nod to follow up.

"Truly remarkable, Floor Guardians!" Momonga exclaimed, spreading his arms in a gesture of admiration. His voice carried a tone of genuine astonishment at their dedication. "We have every confidence that each of you will fulfill your duties without fail!"

The guardians' expressions brightened at their lord's praise

"Now that that's out of the way," Lucian said, stepping forward with an air of authority. "The Great Tomb of Nazarick is currently in an unknown situation. Sebas was sent out to survey the surroundings—report your findings."

Sebas, who had been standing quietly on the sidelines to avoid interrupting, stepped forward with a deep bow. "As you command, Lord Lucian." He straightened and began his report.

"I have scouted a one-kilometer radius around the Great Tomb of Nazarick. It appears we are no longer surrounded by a vast swamp, but instead by sprawling grasslands."

"I also could not detect a single building within the radius, nor any humans, monsters, or animals," Sebas added, his tone calm but serious.

Lucian and Momonga turned their backs to the guardians, leaning closer to whisper to each other.

"No buildings or living beings? That's impossible," Lucian muttered, his voice laced with bewilderment.

Momonga nodded, his skeletal visage unreadable but his tone thoughtful. "We truly aren't in Yggdrasil anymore. In the grasslands there, low-level goblin tribes could be found at nearly every step. This emptiness confirms it—we're in an unknown land."

Lucian's tone grew firm, his eyes narrowing. "If that's the case, we must tread carefully. Every move we make needs to be measured."

"I fully agree," Momonga replied with equal resolve. "But first, we need to ensure the security of Nazarick in its entirety."

Turning back to the gathered guardians, Momonga coughed lightly into his fist, drawing everyone's attention. "After a brief discussion with Lucian, we've come to a conclusion: the Great Tomb of Nazarick has, for reasons unknown, been transported to an unfamiliar land."

Lucian stepped forward. "Albedo, Demiurge," he called, locking eyes with each in turn. "Your priority is to establish a more robust information-sharing system and strengthen our defenses. Should any challenges arise, do not hesitate to contact Me or Momonga for additional support."

Both guardians bowed deeply, their voices ringing out in unison. "Hai!"

Lucian's gaze shifted to the young dark elf standing nervously among the group. "Mare," he addressed gently but firmly, "is there a way to conceal the entirety of the Great Tomb of Nazarick? Speak your mind freely."

Mare hesitated for a moment, fidgeting with the hem of his robe before gathering his thoughts. "I-It would be difficult to achieve with magic alone, Lord Lucian," he stammered. "But if we were to cover the walls with dirt and disguise everything with vegetation... it could work."

"You want to smear the glorious walls of Nazarick with dirt...?" Albedo's voice was as cold as ice, her disapproval cutting through the air like a blade.

Lucian's gaze hardened, and he crossed his arms firmly. "Albedo, I appreciate your devotion to Nazarick, but if dirtying the exterior ensures its protection, then that is exactly what we will do. Do you understand?"

Realizing her mistake, Albedo lowered her head, her tone remorseful. "I understand, Lord Lucian. Please pardon my ignorance."

"It's fine," Lucian replied, his voice steady but firm. "However, next time, consider the words of your fellow guardians more carefully before speaking out."

Shalltear stifled a snicker, clearly amused by Albedo being chastised. The sound didn't go unnoticed, and Lucian's gaze shifted to her in an instant.

"Shalltear," he said, his tone carrying a weight that made her straighten immediately, "Meet me in my office after this meeting is over."

Lucian ignored the bewildered expressions on both Albedo's and Shalltear's faces, choosing instead to refocus on the discussion at hand.

"Now, where were we?... Ah, Mare, can your suggestion be realized?" he asked, his tone calm yet purposeful.

Mare fidgeted slightly but nodded. "Y-Yes, Lord Lucian, as long as you permit it. However..."

Momonga cut in, addressing the potential issue. "I understand—a random mound would look unnatural in flatlands. Sebas, did you notice any hills in the vicinity?"

Sebas shook his head. "Unfortunately not, my lord. The area surrounding us is entirely flat."

"I see," Momonga murmured, his skeletal fingers brushing his chin in thought. "What if we constructed dummy hills? Would that allow us to blend into the environment?"

Sebas inclined his head respectfully. "I believe that would work, my lord. It would provide a natural cover and align with the surrounding terrain."

"Excellent," Momonga concluded. "Then that's what we'll do. Once the dummy hills are in place, we'll physically conceal any remaining open areas that cannot be hidden with illusions."

"H-Hai! I understand!" Mare responded, his voice carrying a mix of nervousness and determination.

"Before we conclude this meeting, i wanted to ask each floor guardian something" Lucian began, his deep voice echoing through the amphitheater. The guardians, looked at him attentively, their expressions ranging from curious to reverent.

"What kind of person... am I to you all?"

The question hung in the air, surprising even Momonga, who turned his glowing red gaze toward his friend.

Albedo was the first to respond, stepping forward with unwavering confidence. Her golden eyes sparkled with fervor as she placed a hand over her heart, her voice steady and filled with devotion. "Lord Lucian, you are one of the Supreme Beings who gave us life. To me, you are perfection embodied—a paragon of strength, intelligence, and leadership. There is no one more worthy of admiration..." She didn't hesitate for even a fraction of a second before her voice softened, her tone laced with passion. "...as well as the man I love!"

Shalltear stepped forward next, her pale cheeks flushed. "Lord Lucian, I see you as the epitome of beauty and power. Your presence commands respect, and your every action is a testament to the superiority of the Supreme Beings. I... I am honored to serve under you."

Rukia Kuchiki, her slender frame radiating an understated grace, stepped forward with a calm demeanor. The Shinigami bowed respectfully before meeting Lucian's gaze. "Lord Lucian, you remind me of my late brother—steadfast, composed, and deeply honorable. Your strength is undeniable, but it's your quiet sense of responsibility that stands out most. I respect you greatly for that."

Aura spoke quickly, her voice filled with energy. "You're super cool, Lord Lucian! The way you carry yourself and your abilities... it's like you're untouchable! I hope I can be as strong as you someday."

Mare fidgeted nervously before speaking. "U-Um... I think you're really kind, Lord Lucian. You gave us water earlier, a-and you didn't even have to. That's... that's amazing."

Demiurge adjusted his glasses, his sharp smile present as ever. "You are a master warrior, Lord Lucian, and your foresight is unparalleled. It is reassuring to know that we are guided by your wisdom and strength."

"I see... I have heard all your thoughts. Continue working faithfully in our name," Lucian replied thoughtfully, his tone exuding calm authority.

"Hai!" the Floor Guardians answered in unison, their voices filled with devotion, as both Supreme Beings used their [Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown] and vanished from the scene.

[Corridor to the Throne Room]

Momonga leaned against a wall, the cold surface pressing against his skull, while Lucian rubbed the nape of his neck with an air of exhaustion.

"I'm tired," Momonga sighed. "What the hell was with that glorious view they had of you? They sounded so serious too!"

Lucian chuckled lightly, though his hidden brow furrowed in thought. "It must be how they perceive my avatar. It makes me wonder how their memory works. Did this new world somehow implant memories that never existed to fill in the gaps? like creating past events that never happened to make our existence and theirs feel seamless—It's fascinating... and troubling." He paused before smirking. "By the way, why didn't you ask them for their thoughts about you?"

Momonga straightened slightly, a hint of awkwardness in his tone. "Firstly, you never cease to surprise me with your overthinking—though it's impressive. Secondly, I thought it would be embarrassing to hear the Guardians openly express their thoughts about one Supreme Being while the other was standing right there. It just felt... awkward. I'll ask them privately at a later time."

Lucian shook his head, an amused grin spreading across his face underneath his helmet. "Fair enough. But you're missing out on the fun of seeing their reactions under pressure. It's almost worth the embarrassment just for that."

Momonga let out a dry chuckle, his tone laced with mock exasperation. "I think I've had enough pressure for one day, thank you very much."

[Back at the ampitheatre]

Moments after both Supreme Beings disappeared, the Floor Guardians slowly rose to their feet, the tension in the air dissipating.

Mare was the first to speak, clutching his chest as he tried to calm his rapidly beating heart. "Th-That was really scary, sis," he stammered.

"Seriously! I thought we were going to be crushed by the pressure!" Aura replied with a wide grin, seemingly exhilarated by the experience.

Rukia remained silent, her gaze distant as she mulled over her thoughts. 'Lord Lucian's presence is so radiant... almost ethereal', she mused to herself, her admiration growing.

Albedo sighed dreamily, her hands clasped to her chest as her expression softened. "So that was Lord Lucian and Lord Momonga in their full glory as our rulers. Truly magnificent!" Her tone was filled with reverence, though her mind lingered on the image of Lucian.

Adjusting his glasses with a practiced motion, Demiurge spoke next. "Indeed, it appears so. I trust that our pledge of fidelity was satisfactory to them. It is our highest honor to serve their will."

"They were so different when they were with us earlier," Aura chimed in, glancing at the guardians who had not been present for the earlier exchanges. "Lord Lucian and Lord Momonga were so kind! Lord Lucian even gave us something to drink just because we looked thirsty."

Mare nodded enthusiastically at his sister's words, his face lighting up with admiration. "Lo-Lord Lucian and Lord Momonga are incredible!"

"It's just as you say!" Albedo suddenly turned around, her expression shifting into a mix of happiness and fervent admiration. Her voice brimmed with devotion as she continued, "He responded to our feelings, just as an absolute ruler would! As expected of our creator! Among the 41 Supreme Beings, Lord Lucian and Lord Momonga stand at the very top—merciful leaders who remained in their land until the very end, ensuring our safety and prosperity!"

The other guardians nodded in agreement, though Demiurge adjusted his glasses, observing Albedo's passionate outburst with a faint smirk of approval.

Sebas, standing off to the side, deemed his presence no longer necessary and gracefully stood up. He offered a slight bow to the gathered guardians before announcing, "Then i shall depart first. I do not know where Lord Momonga has gone, but it is only proper that I ensure his well-being and remain by his side. Furthermore, it would not be too far-fetched to assume that none of the Pleiades are also not currently accompanying Lord Lucian. I will confirm their status as well."

Albedo's expression momentarily soured as the thought of the Pleiades spending so much time at Lucian's side crossed her mind. Her tone shifted, laced with jealousy and fervor, as she addressed Sebas.

"Sebas, inform me immediately if anything happens—especially if Lord Lucian calls for me. I will rush to his side no matter the cost or sacrifice! But..." Her voice softened, taking on a dreamlike tone. "Tell Lord Lucian that I would need time if he calls me to his bedchamber. I would, of course, need to bathe first. Unless..." Her cheeks flushed, and her voice dropped to a near-whisper, "...he prefers me unbathed. Then I would go as I am..."

Sebas, well-versed in Albedo's obsessive tendencies, maintained a neutral expression, though internally, he dreaded being further delayed by her ramblings. He interjected smoothly, cutting off what was sure to become an extended soliloquy. "I understand, Albedo. Rest assured, I will keep you informed. Now, if you'll excuse me, I shall take my leave. Floor Guardians."

With a final bow, Sebas left the amphitheater.

As the guardians watched him depart, Demiurge's sharp eyes caught Shalltear still kneeling on the ground, her shoulders trembling. "Is something wrong, Shalltear?" he inquired, his tone tinged with curiosity.

The question drew the attention of the other guardians, who turned to look at the vampiric beauty. Shalltear's cheeks were flushed, and she appeared to be panting lightly. Her crimson eyes met Demiurge's, filled with an uncharacteristic mix of shame and excitement.

"L-Lord Lucian's presence..." she stammered, her voice thick with emotion. "It was so overwhelming, so intoxicating, that my underwear has... experienced a bit of a crisis."

For a moment, the room was silent. Then, a menacing dark aura began to swirl around Albedo, her eyes narrowing dangerously at Shalltear's words.

"You bitch!" Albedo snarled, her voice laced with fury. Her envy and rage were palpable, and it seemed as if she were ready to pounce on Shalltear at any moment.

Shalltear's feral grin widened as she stood, her crimson eyes blazing with determination. "What?! We just received so much of Lord Lucian's energy! It was the ultimate reward!" She leaned forward, her voice dripping with mockery. "A girl who doesn't get wet from something like that is crazy! You wide-mouthed gorilla!"

Albedo's golden eyes glowed with a dangerous light. "You lamprey!" she snarled, her voice venomous.

Shalltear scoffed, her impish grin unwavering. "I was created to look this way by the supreme beings, and my beauty is unmatched!"

"That's the same for me, you know?!" Albedo snapped, her tone matching Shalltear's intensity as the two squared off, their auras clashing like opposing storms.

"Ah, Albedo,Shalltear! please calm down!" Aura interjected, stepping between the two with her arms raised, trying to pacify them. "We're all loyal servants of the supreme beings, right? There's no need to fight!"

Demiurge stood off to the side, adjusting his glasses with an amused smirk. He clearly found their bickering entertaining, even if it was unproductive.

Meanwhile, Mare shuffled nervously behind his sister, clutching the hem of his robe. "T-This is so scary..." he whispered, his voice barely audible over the tension in the room.

"Rukia, I'll leave the issues between women to you and Aura," Demiurge said smoothly, turning on his heel and motioning for Mare to follow.

Aura, who had been doing her best to maintain peace, stepped back for a moment, exasperated. "Hey, Demiurge! Are you seriously planning on dumping this on us?!" she yelled after him.

Demiurge cast a calm glance over his shoulder. "If something escalates, I trust that Rukia will intervene appropriately," he replied with a sly smile before walking off with Mare in tow.

"And to think those two are supposed to be the strongest forces in Nazarick after Lord Lucian and Lord Momonga," Rukia muttered with a weary sigh. She pinched the bridge of her nose, already bracing herself for the inevitable explosion. Her sharp eyes flicked between Albedo and Shalltear, both of whom were still radiating hostile energy.

Rukia's hand rested lightly on the hilt of her katana, ready to "cool" the situation with a firm hand if the need arose.

"Personally, I'd be really interested in the result," Demiurge began, his tone smooth and calculating, catching Mare's attention.

"W-What do you mean?" Mare asked, tilting his head in confusion.

"A great ruler should have an heir, don't you think?" Demiurge adjusted his glasses, his crimson eyes gleaming with intrigue. "Lord Lucian and Lord Momonga stayed behind until the end, a testament to their dedication. But they may someday leave for another place, just as the other supreme beings did. While I cannot speak on Lord Momonga's reproductive capabilities," Demiurge chuckled softly, "I am certain that Lord Lucian could leave behind someone worthy of our loyalty to ensure Nazarick's continuity."

Mare's face flushed a little as he glanced nervously back toward Albedo and Shalltear, who were still engaged in a heated argument. "S-So, you mean... one of them could give birth to Lord Lucian's heir?"

"Precisely," Demiurge confirmed with a knowing nod. "However, it need not be limited to them. There's also the Pleiades, your sister Aura, Rukia, Lord Lucian's steadfast right hand, Serie, and of course, the enigmatic Guardian of the Treasury, Makima. Each of them could potentially provide an heir of unparalleled strength and intellect."

Mare's wide eyes darted between Demiurge and the still-fuming guardians. "Oh, I-I see... but wouldn't that mean a lot of heirs?"

"Indeed," Demiurge replied with a sly grin, folding his hands behind his back. "A legacy befitting a supreme being—an army of heirs to rule Nazarick for millennia to come. Wouldn't that be glorious?"

Mare gulped, feeling a mix of awe and apprehension at the weight of Demiurge's vision. "T-That does sound... impressive..." he stammered, though he couldn't shake the mental image of Albedo and Shalltear trying to one-up each other as mothers.

"By the way, Mare," Demiurge said with a curious tilt of his head, "why are you dressed as a girl?"

Mare fidgeted nervously, tugging at the hem of his skirt as he looked up at the arch-demon. "Th-This is something Bukubuku Chagama-san chose for me," he explained, his voice trembling slightly. "Um, she said I was an 'otoko no ko.' S-So, I'm pretty sure that I'm supposed to be a boy..."

Demiurge stroked his chin thoughtfully, his crimson eyes behind his glasses glinting with intrigue. "An 'otoko no ko,' you say? Fascinating... then perhaps all young boys in Nazarick are intended to be dressed like this. I shall consult Lord Momonga on this matter later to ensure we are adhering to the supreme beings' intentions."

Mare's face turned beet red, and he waved his hands frantically. "N-No! I-I think it's just me! P-Please don't trouble Lord Momonga with this!"

Demiurge chuckled softly, his lips curling into an amused smile. "No need to be embarrassed, Mare. If this attire was chosen by a supreme being, then it must be perfect for you."

Mare ducked his head, mumbling, "I-I guess... if Bukubuku Chagama-san said so..."

"Now, Albedo! Shalltear! Are you both still fighting?" Demiurge called out, his tone calm but laced with curiosity as he observed the situation.

Aura turned to face him with a shrug. "They're done fighting. Right now they're—"

"We are deciding who the head wife will be," Shalltear interjected, cutting Aura off mid-sentence.

Aura let out a sigh, crossing her arms. "Well, at least they're not fighting anymore..."

"It would be unthinkable for the strongest warrior of the Great Tomb of Nazarick to have only one wife," Albedo declared, a confident smirk on her lips. "However, it has yet to be decided who will hold the position of official wife."

Demiurge nodded in understanding, his sharp gaze shifting between the two rivals. "An intriguing matter, indeed. However, would it not be wise to prioritize our orders from the Supreme Ones before engaging in such discussions?"

Albedo glanced at Shalltear, her serious demeanor returning. "You're absolutely right, Demiurge. This is an important matter, but it can wait. Shalltear, we shall resume this discussion at a later time."

"I have no objections," Shalltear replied with a graceful nod.

"Good." Albedo's expression turned steely, her golden eyes reflecting determination as she addressed the gathered guardians. "In that case, let us focus on the plans laid out by Lord Lucian and Lord Momonga. We have much work to do to ensure Nazarick's safety and dominance in this new world."

[Lucian's Office]

"My god, this is actually fucking insane," Lucian muttered under his breath, careful to keep his voice low so as not to alert Narberal Gamma, who had been assigned as his maid for the day. Sitting at his ornate desk, he examined one of the countless artifacts stored in his inventory.

'Such detail... I need to test something,' Lucian thought, reaching into his inventory and pulling out an icicle-like blade—the God-class weapon [Frozen Needle]. The moment it appeared, a thin layer of frost formed on his golden gauntlet before melting away, countered by his passive resistances.

With a flick of his wrist, Lucian swung the blade, leaving a sparkling trail of snowflakes and frigid air in its wake. Narberal watched silently, her sharp eyes glinting with curiosity. 'Even the particle effects are identical', he noted, marveling at the level of realism.

Knock, knock.

The sound echoed through the room. Lucian let the blade dissipate back into his inventory, the shimmering frost disappearing as the weapon vanished. Turning toward the door, he straightened his posture.

"Enter. The door is open," he called out, his voice calm and composed, masking his earlier amazement.

The door opened slightly, and Shalltear entered, her small frame moving with grace. Lucian felt a brief moment of surprise before remembering why she was here—he had instructed her to report to his office earlier during the Amphitheater meeting.

"Ah, Shalltear," Lucian said, gesturing to the chair in front of his desk, "please, take a seat."

"Yes, Lord Lucian." Shalltear gracefully sat down, her crimson eyes fixed on him with a mix of reverence and nervous energy.

"Narberal," Lucian said, his tone firm but calm, as he waved his hand in a dismissive gesture. "Thank you for your services today. You are dismissed for the day."

Narberal looked as though she wanted to protest, her lips parting slightly as if to argue. However, with a reluctant bow, she obeyed. "Hai, Lord Lucian. Please call upon me if you require anything further." She turned and exited, though not without glancing back once before closing the door behind her.

Left alone with Shalltear, Lucian immediately sensed the faint presence of someone just beyond the door. 'Albedo,' he thought, recognizing her aura. She was clearly eavesdropping, which was to be expected given her possessiveness. Yet he brushed it away, thinking nothing serious will come out of her listening in on them.

"Shalltear," Lucian began, his tone firm yet measured, "do you know why I requested your presence?"

Shalltear's hands fidgeted slightly, and her gaze wavered before locking on to him. "H-Hai, Lord Lucian... I interrupted during the guardians' meeting. I humbly apologize for my insolence." Her pale cheeks flushed a deep red as she added, "I am ready for any punishment you deem fit for my behavior, my lord."

Lucian froze, his mind racing as he took in her bold demeanor. She's presenting herself... literally. If not for his helmet, she would have seen the way his jaw dropped. Her seductive posture, her sultry tone—it was all too clear.

For a fleeting moment, Lucian's thoughts wavered. Was this hidden desire bubbling up from his subconscious? Or was it merely Shalltear's overwhelming allure that had caught him off guard? Stay in control, he told himself firmly.

He leaned back in his chair, clasping his hands in front of him in a composed manner. If she wanted punishment, he would grant her one that would leave an impression—without giving in to his desires fully. This was a game he had to play carefully, one step at a time.

"Very well, Shalltear," Lucian said, his voice even and commanding. "Since you seem so eager to atone, I have a task for you. Consider it both punishment and an opportunity you will enjoy... Bend over my lap"

Lucian froze momentarily as Shalltear enthusiastically obeyed, leaping across the desk onto his lap with a fervor that made him flinch. Her small frame settled across him, but the reality of her curves quickly derailed his thoughts.

'Oh damn,' he thought, struggling to maintain his composure, 'I thought it was just the dress, but that... is definitely not the case.'

With a coy smile playing on her lips, Shalltear gave out a weary sigh, her ample rear end straining against the confines of her dress. The fabric stretched taut, revealing the generous curves of her derrière as well as outlines of her panties. Her crimson eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and submission as she awaited her lord's discipline.

"Mmm, yes, Lord Lucian... I've been such a naughty little vampire, haven't I?" She cooed, her voice dripping with feigned innocence. Her hands rested below her buttcheeks pushing them lightly up, fingers drumming an impatient rhythm as she presented herself for punishment.The scent of her arousal wafted through the air, mingling with the heady aroma of her perfume.

"Shalltear," Lucian said, his voice carrying a sharp edge as he fought to suppress the sudden heat creeping into his own thoughts. "Do you truly understand the position you've put yourself in?"

"Of course, Lord Lucian," Shalltear replied breathlessly, her tone dripping with anticipation. "I am here to accept whatever punishment you deem necessary for my disrespect. Please, discipline me as you see fit."

Lucian sighed, his gloved hand hovering over her wide backside as he considered how to proceed. 'Okay, she seems completely aware and okay with this, i might as well go ahead and..'

SPANK

A gasp of delight escaped Shalltear's lips as the forceful slap reverberated against her padded posterior. Her body instinctively arched, presenting herself further to Lucian's disciplinary touch. The stinging sensation only served to heighten her arousal, a trait she wore proudly as a true vampire.

"Oh, yes... More!" Shalltear pleaded, her voice trembling with a mix of need and submission. Pain and pleasure intertwined, stoking a fire within her that threatened to consume her entirely. "Punish me, Lord Lucian! Show me the depth of your displeasure!"

Her crimson eyes glimmered with unrestrained lust and unwavering devotion, her frame quivering in anticipation.

Lucian was utterly flabbergasted. 'What the hell? All it took was one slap?' He thought, struggling to process the absurdity of the situation. 'God only knows how horny Peroroncino was when designing her. If I'd known she was this... intense, I never would've started this in the first place.'

"Lord... Lucian?" Shalltear's voice broke through his inner turmoil, a noticeable shift in her tone. Her previously flushed, lust-filled expression gave way to one of confusion and mounting worry.

"D-Did I displease you, my Lord?" she asked, her voice trembling as her earlier confidence crumbled.

"No, Shalltear. I just—" Lucian began, only to be interrupted by the sound of the doors bursting open.

Albedo stormed into the room, her golden eyes blazing with fury. "You useless, oversized mosquito! How dare you displease Lord Lucian in an act of intimacy?! I would never fail in such a sacred task!"

"Albedo, please, this isn't—" Lucian tried to interject, but his words fell on deaf ears.

"Oh, really?" Shalltear snapped, leaping to her feet and whirling around to face the enraged Overseer. Her crimson eyes narrowed dangerously. "You think you could pleasure Lord Lucian better than me, you fat assed virgin?!"

The two women were now nose-to-nose, their auras clashing violently as sparks of hostility filled the room. Lucian sighed, placing his head in his hands, silently lamenting his choice to request Shalltear into his office in the first place.

BAM!

The sharp sound of Lucian slamming his hands on the desk echoed through the room, instantly silencing the escalating argument. Both Albedo and Shalltear flinched, their auras of aggression dissipating as they turned their attention to him.

"Albedo, Shalltear," Lucian's voice was firm, his tone leaving no room for defiance. "Stop arguing and listen to me."

"H-Hai, Lord Lucian. Please forgive us," the two women responded in unison, stepping away from each other and bowing deeply, their heads lowered in shame.

Lucian sighed, rubbing the bridge of his helmet where a nose would be as he composed himself. "Now, listen. I understand that both of you have... certain feelings toward me." He hesitated for a moment, noting their eager nods and unwavering gazes. "But as much as it pains me to admit, I am not exactly well-versed in matters of intimacy."

Albedo immediately stepped forward, her expression earnest and filled with unwavering devotion. "L-Lord Lucian, please don't diminish yourself like that! I am certain you would be extraordinary in such matters!"

"Absolutely!" Shalltear chimed in, her cheeks flushed crimson. "Your slaps were heavenly, Lord Lucian! I can still feel the divine sting of your touch!"

Lucian's eye twitched beneath his helmet. 'This is going to be harder than I thought,' he mused, already regretting the path this conversation had taken.

Knock, knock.

"Lord Lucian?"

Oh, thank god, Lucian thought, relief washing over him as Yuri Alpha entered the room. Her usually composed demeanor faltered briefly as she took in the scene before her—Albedo and Shalltear both looking flustered and slightly disheveled.

"Yuri Alpha, is something the matter?" Lucian asked, his tone calm despite the chaotic atmosphere.

"Lord Momonga requests your presence outside the Great Tomb of Nazarick," Yuri informed him, bowing respectfully.

Lucian raised an eyebrow. 'Why didn't he just use [Message]? Did that nimrod already forget?' He let out a mental sigh but maintained his outward composure. "I see. Thank you, Yuri."

As he walked past Albedo and Shalltear, he paused briefly to pat Yuri on the head, an uncharacteristically gentle gesture.

"M-My Lord," Yuri stammered, her cheeks reddening as she tried to maintain her usual poise.

Lucian turned back to the two kneeling women, his expression firm. "Now, I shall depart. Shalltear, Albedo—please refrain from fighting over such matters in anyone else's presence. If you must, keep it private or come to me, understood?"

"Hai, Lord Lucian!" both women responded in unison, their voices tinged with both regret and determination to heed his command.

"Good," Lucian said with a satisfied nod. Activating the [Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown], he disappeared in a flash of light.

[Outside Nazarick]

Swish.

Momonga turned his uncovered skeletal head as a golden fiery mist shot up from the clouds below, rapidly approaching his side. The haze coalesced into Lucian, whose molten-like armor radiated heat, as if it might liquefy any second, before cooling to its usual golden brilliance.

"Look at it, Lucian," Momonga said, gesturing toward the vast expanse above.

Lucian's gaze followed, and he froze momentarily. "This is... I've only seen it in videos, but I never imagined the night sky could be so breathtaking." His voice was tinged with awe as he beheld the shimmering tapestry of stars, millions of them painting the heavens, with the full moon reigning as their centerpiece.

"It's glittering like a box full of jewels," Momonga added, his tone uncharacteristically wistful.

Demiurge, flying a respectful distance beside the two supreme beings, offered his perspective. "I believe this world shines so brilliantly to serve as an adornment for my lords—its treasures meant to glorify you."

Momonga hummed in thought. "That may be true. Perhaps we have come to this land to claim these treasures. No, it might not be for ourselves alone. Perhaps it is to adorn Nazarick and honor our friends of [Ainz Ooal Gown]."

Demiurge bowed deeply, his voice filled with reverence. "If that is your wish, my lord, we shall harness all the forces of Nazarick to deliver this world and its riches to your feet."

Momonga chuckled, the sound dry but warm. "At this point, when we don't even know what lies out there?"

Lucian, unable to resist, quipped, "Might as well take over the world while we're at it."

Momonga's laughter deepened at the jest, but Demiurge's gasp cut through the moment, his glowing eyes behind his glasses wide with realization. "A brilliant vision, Lord Lucian! Indeed, it is fitting that the supreme beings would aim to bring the entirety of this world under Nazarick's dominion!"

Lucian blinked, momentarily speechless. "Wait, Demiurge, I was only—"

But Demiurge was already bowing fervently, his mind racing with strategies. "A flawless ambition! I shall begin drafting plans for world domination immediately!"

Momonga struggled to suppress his amusement as Lucian sighed, rubbing his forehead. "I should have seen that coming..."

Rumble

Their conversation was interrupted by the distant yet unmistakable sound of shifting earth. Looking below, through the parted clouds, they spotted massive avalanches of soil surging toward Nazarick's walls.

"Earth Surge," Lucian remarked, watching as the waves of dirt cascaded toward the fortress in perfect synchronization. "He's even using buffs to enhance his magic range and conserve mana. Clever boy, that." He nodded approvingly, a hint of pride in his voice.

Turning to Demiurge, Lucian asked, "What do you think Mare would like as a reward, Demiurge?"

The arch-demon didn't hesitate for a moment. "I'm certain that Mare would be overjoyed simply to have you and Lord Momonga acknowledge his efforts directly. A few kind words from the supreme beings would mean more to him than any material gift."

Lucian hummed thoughtfully, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth beneath his helmet. "He truly is a devoted one."

Without further delay, he began to descend toward the ground, his form shifting once more into a golden mist. Momonga and Demiurge followed close behind, their forms cutting through the cool night air as they approached Nazarick's ever-growing fortifications.

Mare was busy using his magic to encourage grass growth over the freshly manipulated earth that now camouflaged Nazarick's walls. As he focused, he noticed a golden flash landing beside him.

"Lord Lucian!" Mare exclaimed, his voice a mix of excitement and nervousness. He hurried toward the armored figure, but his enthusiasm quickly gave way to worry. "W-Why are you here? D-Did I do something wrong?"

Lucian chuckled warmly, resting a reassuring hand on the boy's shoulder. "Of course not, Mare. Your work here is crucial for keeping Nazarick concealed. You've done an incredible job."

Mare's cheeks flushed slightly at the praise, his nervousness melting away.

"And because of that," Lucian said, pulling his hand forward, "I wanted you to know just how much your efforts mean to us." A soft flash of light emitted from his hand, and in its wake materialized a gleaming [Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown].

"R-Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown?!" Mare gasps, his heterochromic eyes widening in disbelief. "This... This is an item meant for the Supreme Beings! I-I can't possibly accept such a valuable gift!"

"Calm down, Mare," came a familiar, deep voice as Momonga descended gracefully beside Lucian, Demiurge following close behind.

"The movement between floors can be restrictive," Momonga explained, his tone kind but firm. "With this ring, you'll have the freedom to move throughout Nazarick without limitation. It's a tool to help you serve Nazarick better."

Lucian nodded in agreement. "That's right, Mare. This isn't just a gift—it's a symbol of trust. Take it, and continue to serve Nazarick with the same devotion you always have."

Mare hesitated for a moment, his hands trembling as he reached out to take the ring. He held it like a sacred relic, his face glowing with gratitude. "T-Thank you, Lord Lucian, Lord Momonga! I-I promise to use it well!"

"We're depending on you, Mare," Lucian said firmly, his voice carrying warmth and encouragement.

"Hai!" Mare saluted with enthusiasm. Then, hesitating for a moment, he shifted his attention to Momonga. "Um, by the way, Lord Momonga, why are you dressed like that?"

Momonga visibly froze, his armored fingers twitching. "W-Well, um..." he stammered, clearly unprepared for the question.

Before he could offer an explanation, a flash of blue light lit up the area, and a familiar figure materialized beside the group. "It's quite simple, Mare," came the calm, stress-free voice of Serie, who took a leisurely puff from her pipe.

The petite Elf strode forward with her usual confidence, joining the group. "Lord Momonga didn't want to disrupt his hardworking subordinates by drawing attention to himself, myself included," she explained with an air of casual authority.

Lucian, however, raised an eyebrow beneath his helmet. 'You liar. You were probably just lazing about in our chambers,' he thought, his mind laced with judgment. Serie, as if reading his thoughts, glanced at him with a mischievous grin, the corner of her mouth curling slightly upward.

She continued, unabated, "Everyone would stop their tasks just to bow down in reverence to his greatness. As for Lord Lucian, he came to observe the sky alongside Lord Momonga, isn't that right?"

Both Supreme Beings nodded in unison, grateful for her quick thinking.

"That's correct," Momonga confirmed. "As observant as ever, Serie. You never fail to impress."

Serie smirked at the compliment, taking another deep inhale from her pipe before exhaling smoke in perfectly formed circles. "Naturally. As the acting right hand of Lord Lucian, such attentiveness is to be expected."

Momonga chuckled softly, amused by her confidence, while Mare looked between the three figures in awe, as though he were witnessing an interaction between gods themselves. "T-Thank you for explaining, Serie-sama," he said, bowing slightly to her.

"Nah, it's fine, Mare..." Serie's voice trailed off mid-sentence, her sharp gaze locking onto the ring now glinting on Mare's finger.

Crack

The delicate pipe in her hand splintered into two, falling to the ground with a dull thud. The sound made Lucian flinch slightly, and his gaze darted toward Serie, whose expression remained carefully composed.

"Hm?" Serie's voice was calm, almost eerily so, as she tilted her head toward Lucian. "Something the matter, Lord Lucian?"

Her tone remained composed, but her eyes betrayed a quiet storm brewing beneath her placid demeanor.

"N-No, not at all," Lucian stammered, inwardly cursing the sudden shift in atmosphere. He instinctively glanced at Momonga, silently pleading for assistance.

However, Momonga, ever the master of avoidance in uncomfortable situations, seemed to find the stars above particularly fascinating right at this moment. His head tilted upward as though he hadn't noticed a single thing, leaving Lucian entirely to fend for himself.

Serie bent down slowly to pick up the shattered pieces of her pipe, her movements deliberate. "A [Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown] for Mare... quite the honor. A symbol reserved for the Supreme Beings and their most trusted servants. What a thoughtful gesture, Lord Lucian," she said, her voice sweet yet laced with something sharp beneath the surface.

Lucian chuckled nervously, trying to maintain his composure. "W-Well, Mare's work is crucial for Nazarick. It's only fitting he's rewarded for his efforts."

Serie straightened, her smile never faltering. "Indeed. Mare is invaluable. Perhaps such a token could motivate others as well," she said, her words dripping with a mixture of genuine admiration and veiled suggestion.

"Y-Yes, exactly!" Lucian nodded hurriedly, feeling a bead of sweat form under his helmet. 'Why do I feel like I've just stepped on a landmine?' he thought nervously, all while Mare, oblivious to the tension, cheerfully resumed his work.

"Actually, now that I think about it, you deserve a special gift as well, Serie," Lucian announced, regaining some of his composure as he addressed the ever-perceptive elf.

"Oh? And what would that be, Lord Lucian?" Serie replied, her tone feigning curiosity, though the glint in her eyes suggested she already had an inkling.

"There you go," Lucian said, extending his hand to reveal another [Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown]. "It is only logical that my right hand would have easy access across all of Nazarick without the need to consume mana."

Serie's lips curled into a sly smile as she accepted the ring, slipping it onto her ring finger with deliberate grace. The gesture didn't escape Lucian's notice, and he felt a slight heat rise to his face beneath his armor.

"Mhm, makes sense, Lord Lucian. I thank you deeply for this," Serie said, her voice soft yet tinged with satisfaction. Her eyes lingered on his, her expression unreadable save for the subtle hint of triumph.

Lucian sweatdropped, glancing at Momonga. "We better give everyone one of these rings. I fear what might happen if we don't."

Momonga shuddered at the thought of the potential chaos. "I'll get right to it. It's better to prevent a civil war over accessories."

[Undisclosed Location – ??? Meters Away from Nazarick]

The rhythmic clatter of hooves echoed across the grassy plain as a cavalry of armored soldiers charged forward along the dirt road. Their banners fluttered in the cool night air, emblazoned with symbols of an unknown faction.

On a nearby cliff, a smaller group of figures stood observing the marching soldiers. At their forefront, a blonde man in ornate black armor exuded an aura of command. His calculating gaze lingered on the distant horizon before shifting downward toward the road below.

"Tomorrow morning, attack the next village," he ordered, his voice cold and steady, the edges of a smirk curling across his face. "Guide the beasts to their cages."