Overlord (Light Novel) Chapter 74: Vol10 C2 The Re

The Re-Estize Kingdom

Editors/Proofreaders: TaintedDream, M, JcqC, Ferro, Anon

Part 1

It was a pocketwatch, just large enough to fit into his palm, with three hands ― the hour, the minute, and the second ― which traced a halo of twelve numbers.

Climb had borrowed the pocketwatch which he now bore, and so it differed from regular magic items in that it possessed a magical ability. The name of the watch was Twelve Magical Power. Once per day, when the watch reached a set time, it would unleash its magic.

“Hm? Is it time already? That was fast…” said the girl who seemed to be looking aimlessly at the blue sky. Naturally, those words were addressed to Climb.

“Hm~ It's hard to tell the time when we're spacing out.”

To begin with, Tina was not spacing out. She was guarding the main door of the building behind Climb. While she had said things like “Is it time already” and “That was fast”, the fact was that she had a very acute perception of time.

“Hm? Were you about to say something?”

Tina replied with a “Is that so,” when she heard Climb's answer, and then looked at the sky again.

In the first place, they did not have the money to hire Tina and the others; they just happened to be operating in the same area by chance. Given their lack of manpower, he could not do anything which might upset her.

“See ya~”

He had seen it during its construction several times, but this was the first time he had laid eyes on it after it was complete. The size of the building ― and the presence of his mistress within it ― filled the depths of Climb's heart with warmth.

He continued forward, and after passing through the corridor, he opened the door to a room in the depths of the building.

She was a stunningly beautiful princess, Renner.

The way she smiled tenderly at the rowdy children and the posture which she took to listen to their words made all who saw her think of a saint.

He was afraid that he would ruin this sacrosanct vision before him. The same applied to the women who stood by the window, none of whom dared do anything unnecessary.

“Oi, it's the little punk. Well, it's about time.”

Climb could see himself reflected in those eyes which reminded him of sapphires.

“Is that so~ Then, although it pains me to do so, I must take my leave.”

In response to the children, the other women hurriedly sprang into action. They patted the children soothingly, and pulled away those children who were slower on the uptake from Renner's side.

The kids energetically answered in the affirmative to Renner's question.

“Hm~ Well, I'm your bodyguard too, even if you don't say it ― although, since this isn't a request, it's more like we happen to be travelling together. Don't worry, I'll be behind you.”

Tina entered the carriage without introducing herself. Although it seemed like she was being rude, she was simply ensuring the safety of the carriage. Shortly after that, Renner, Climb and finally Evileye entered one after the other, and then the carriage set off.

“…It must have been pretty hard to build an orphanage like that.”

“Yes. A lot of people are saying that too. Where in the world did you get all that money to spend on a place like that?”

“I don't think so, right? Onii-sama was quite happy to listen to my request. Besides, it's because the world is like this that we need to take good care of the children, right?”

“As we all know, the ruler of the Sorcerous Kingdom has caused many deaths. As a result, I believe there are many orphans who have lost their parents. Thus, this orphanage was built to protect those orphans. In addition, those women who have lost their husbands will also need a place to work, right?”

“That's not right.”

“Saving the weak is what the strong should do. And…”

Perhaps―

Perhaps the Princess had built the orphanage because she remembered his state from that time. In a way, it was to prevent children like Climb from appearing again.

Of course, he could not verify the Princess' actual thoughts. Even so, Climb did not doubt that it was that way.

“Yes. After all, we have to consider that we will take in many children in the future, and there will be others from those regions directly administered by the Crown. With that in mind, even a building of that size might not be big enough. Children are my treasure, and we need to take care of them to make sure they don't go down the wrong path.”

“What are you trying to say, Tina?”

“That is… I see… since we can't spare precious manpower to replenish the depleted number of troops, you're using alternate means to maintain public order… I see.”

“Hm. So you're saying, '―Not everyone has a strong will', then?”

“I think she's said something like that about three times already.”

Those children who had lost their parents often turned to crime in order to survive. If that happened, even the weakened Eight Fingers would soon return to full strength, which would worsen the security of the Royal Capital.

However ― Renner asked Evileye in a curious tone:

“Oi… did we read too deeply into it? Or is this just an act?”

“Well, if you say so, then it must be true. I feel like I was moved for nothing.”

“No, I can understand gathering those brats for that reason, and it's pretty admirable too. If you can actually produce results, it would be worthy of praise. It's just that people are going to be suspicious if you do something without expecting anything in return.”

“Oi! You're the same type as me, aren't you?”

Cheh! The sound of an explosive scoff came from beneath the mask.

“Brain Unglaus, huh. What happened to him. How come he isn't around today?”

“Hoh? Could there be something more important than protecting the Princess?”

Tina narrowed her eyes, as though to conceal her feelings.

“I am very sorry about that. Please allow me to apologize on Father's behalf.”

“Thank you very much.”

For a moment, Evileye glanced out of the carriage as she was deep in thought. Of course, that was just for a moment.

“Well, the Warrior-Captain told Brain that he hoped for Brain to succeed him as Warrior-Captain, but he felt that he was not up to the task. Therefore, he's looking for someone suitable to become the next Warrior-Captain and then he's going to train him up.”

“―That's right, to build the orphanage. Next time, I'll go visit the children with Brain-san. For all we know, there might be a talented child among them.”

“You can't discern magical talent at a glance. At the very least, they'll need to go through a lot of magical training before I can roughly understand whether or not they can use magic. In addition, that's only for arcane magic. If those brats are talented at spiritualism or divine magic instead, I won't be able to see anything.”

“Then, in future, I think we ought to invite all sorts of people to the orphanage and have them look over the children for talents.”

“…That's pretty naïve. But if it was her, ah―”

“―Yes. Still, I won't agree so easily, even if it's for her, no? After all, we need a certain amount of remuneration for this ― since we've been hired, we'll need a minimum payment. Besides, if we don't collect anything, it'll be bad for the others too. It'll also violate the adventurers' rules. In addition, a price has to be paid for teaching techniques.”

Renner hung her head in dejection as she said that.

Because of that, Climb could keenly feel her intentions through the armor he wore.

“Reality's hardly that nice. Still, we can't say there aren't any princesses like that.”

How he wanted to give that sort of life to she who was both the most beautiful person in the world, and who had the most noble soul in the world.

“―Thinking of something, Climb?”

“Is that so? Well, if you think of anything, you should speak up. We need to help each other in tough times, after all.”

“Oi. Sorry to interrupt you lovebirds, but I really don't like handing down my skills for free. No matter what she says, I'm still going to ask for an appropriate payment.”

Renner lowered her head.

“Ah, I'll level with you. You can't fathom a person's depths just by seeing them carry out a few exercises. Magical ability is more internal than external. In addition, I might seem like a genius when it comes to magical ability, but that's all there is. I don't have the abilities of that great magic caster from the Empire.”

“Talents, huh,” Renner sighed. “It would be a big help if we could identify them during childhood. It would also help soften the nobles' stubbornness toward the commoners too.”

“Really? Can you really identify talents?”

“Is that so…”

“I think it would be better to test them in various ways. Have them stand under a waterfall, or have them inhale some relatively safe sleeping drugs to go into a trance. Apparently, it makes you sense your own natural talent, mixed up with something else. ”

“Ara, do you have a natural talent too, Evileye-san?”

However, his master was clueless enough to actually ask that question.

It was not that she liked such incisive questioning, but the fact was, she tended to be this way. One might say she did not know how to read the flow of a conversation, or perhaps that she would unintentionally ask about things which were usually quite difficult to bring up.

“What, are you getting excited over a question like this?”

“Is that so. Well, since it's gotten to this, I might as well tell you.”

Natural talents could sometimes serve as a trump card, and this was even more so for adventurers. While he did not think Renner would go around blabbing out that secret, Climb felt that this was something which should not be shared lightly.

“All right.”

And then―

Her angry voice echoed through the carriage.

“How mean! My ears are ringing!”

She looked up from his chest, her eyes brimming with tears.

“Evileye-sama, I understand how you feel, but could I ask you to forgive―”

“It, it's nothing like that, I, it's not like I spoil the Princess or…”

“Yes, I feel that Climb can and should spoil me more. I approve of what you said, Evileye-san.”

“Of course not! If you spoil me more, I can take scoldings like that more easily. Therefore you must spoil me more. Let's start by napping together like we used to as children. Come, Evileye-san, please go on!”

“Is it really that dangerous?”

There seemed to be a terrible weight in Evileye's voice as she said this.

He thought about pushing Renner away, but after taking her soft and fragile body into consideration, he did not know how much force he should use.

“The sword Lakyus carries?”

“So that's what was going on… I didn't know about that…”

“It's best not to mind it. Our oni leader didn't mention it to the two of you because she didn't want you to worry. I'd be glad if you continued pretending like you didn't know.”

“Speaking of which, what happened to Aindrsama? I haven't seen her around recently…”

“…I forgot. It seems like she's training with Gagaran-san and Tisan.”

“The two of them lost their lives during the battle with Jaldabaoth, the Demon Lord who attacked the Kingdom. Of course, they were resurrected after that, but it expended a large amount of their lifeforce. Thus, they need to place themselves in danger, treading the edge of life and death in order to regain their strength.”

“Still, if you did that, you'd begin to depend on that method somewhere in your heart. The best path to strength is through a small amount of short battles.”

“Umu, it does seem like the an effective way to “lair-bellup” (level up)… Well, if you don't rely on that method, you might not even be able to stall for time when that fellow attacks the Royal Capital again.”

“Of course! Until that hero-sama can arrive!”

One could clearly feel her passion and excitement through that mask of hers.

“That's right! The great hero, Momon-sama! The mightiest warrior ever, who swings his twin greatswords like they were little more than twigs! There's no doubt that he's the strongest fighter in the land! Even if Jaldabaoth comes again, as long as Momon-sama is around, he'll definitely slaughter him! Although, it was a shame that he managed to escape last time. Still, that great man should have come up with some way to deal with that by now!”

“But will that person really come? Isn't he a minion of that Sorcerer King?”

“Ahhhh~ Momon-sama! Shit, that damn Sorcerer King! To think he would actually dare to take control of that great man! Even if Heaven permits it, I won't! If only I could defeat him and free Momon-sama! What on earth was he thinking, anyway? Maybe I should go to E-Rantel and ask Momon-sama about his thoughts, how about that?”

“I'll just pop over for a bit, and once I familiarize myself with the place I can just teleport back. Plus, if I use [Fly] and travel by myself, it won't take much time!”

“So help me keep it a secret!”

“Oi, that would be impossible given your prior vocation, right?”

It was then that Tina's eyes took on a serious gleam.

Evileye froze. Her excitement drained away in an instant. In its place was the highest-levelled magic caster among adventurers.

“That was definitely not an illusion. And there were so many dead…”

“Of the 260,000 people who took part in that war, 180,000 of them lost their lives. I've also heard that there are survivors who were mentally scarred and can't live a normal life any more. Some of the orphans had fathers who ended up like that.”

“…Yes. It was hell. Fortunately, I had Brain-san… and the Warrior-Captain with me, and thanks to those two strong men, I didn't suffer any mental wounds. Even so, sometimes I reflexively find myself wanting to look back over my shoulder. It must have been worse for the peasant levies, and it wouldn't be strange for them to become mentally ill as a result.”

Climb could only nod in response.

That was the answer she had expected.

“Well, yes. I might be able to think of a way to deal with those monsters he summoned. Granted, it's hard to say that, given that I was not at the scene. Still, the Sorcerer King ― who can not only summon multiple monsters of that kind and control them ― is a being that should not exist in this world. Someone like that possesses the power of the gods.”

“The possibility does exist, but if that was the case, it would also be very dangerous. That said, we have no way of verifying that.”

“That's a development we're all looking forward to. After that, the best-case scenario would be Momon-sama slaying the Sorcerer King…”

……」

The person who asked this question was Climb, but personally, he felt that the Sorcerer King that had summoned those powerful monsters was far superior. Yet, Evileye's pensive expression shocked him.

“Still, having someone like him under the banner of the Sorcerer King is pretty much the worst-case scenario. Nobody would dare declare war on him.”

The only person who might be able to take the Sorcerer King on even terms had instead become his vassal. That was a truly troubling development. Anyone who declared war on the Sorcerer King would effectively be declaring war on two Sorcerer Kings.

“We'll be reaching the Royal Palace soon.”

“Today, I have received your care in various ways. When Lakyus returns, I will thank her properly. May I ask if you have time to dine with me?”

After the report of his younger sister's return reached him, the Second Prince ― Zanack Valreon Igana Ryle Vaiself ― departed his chambers to welcome her home.

The reason why he had chosen to go in person despite knowing that fact was because he had a proposal he urgently wanted to discuss with her. Zanack might not have been entirely willing to do so, but he had lost his closest confidant and thus had nobody else to turn to.

Climb ― clad in his pure white armor ― was close by. Wherever Renner went, Climb often followed her. This too was nothing out of the ordinary.

In the past, he had thought she must have gotten a bee in her bonnet and picked him up out of a moment's fancy. However, after he came to understand Renner's strange personality and her incomparable intellect, Zanack began to think she might have had a reason for doing so.

There were very few warriors in this city who were stronger than Climb. Even among the men of Gazef's hand-picked warrior band, one could count the number of people who were stronger than Climb on one hand.

―Was she really not conspiring to overthrow him with military force?

Even if Renner was not one to resort to such measures so easily, one still had to take precautions. Therefore, Zanack had begun to secretly build ties with orichalcum and mithril-ranked adventurers.

The reason why he could work so hard on these matters was because his brother had gone missing and had virtually left him the throne. Another big reason was because his brother's stipend now went to him.

“Really… Is he going to give me trouble right until the end?” Zanack muttered, quietly enough so that the members of his retinue could not hear.

Currently, Zanack's backing was still not very secure.

Part of the reason for that must have been the deaths of his formerly orichalcum-ranked adventurer team and that of his peasant-turned-strategist, a man who Raeven considered a treasure.

He had been agonizing over a certain problem for the past few weeks.

Judging by the current circumstances, not sending the gift would be the right choice. Why would anyone send a gift to someone who had taken one's own territory and founded a nation on it? The surrounding countries would surely take it as a mark of vassalage. That said, it was crucial to remain on the best of terms with the Sorcerous Kingdom.

No matter what, he had to avert the possibility of that man's eye turning to the Kingdom once more.

However, the nobles would never accept that. This was the troublesome part.

The nobles had suffered tremendous losses, so they were looking for scapegoats upon which to vent their frustration.

If that fellow was around, he'd probably be able to come up with something good.

Zanack stood in place, while stomping his boots loudly.

Soon, his younger sister stood before him, but Zanack did not speak first. Moments like this were very delicate. He had to let more people understand who exactly was on top here.

“Welcome back, my sister.”

“Let us walk together.”

Zanack and Renner set out together, side by side. He raised his chin, indicating that his retinue should keep their distance. If he had looked over, he would have seen Renner gesturing to Climb that he was permitted to stay further away.

Renner smiled as she gently asked her question.

Zanack could distinctly hear his heart thump in his chest. He had been too focused on what action to take on his part, and had completely overlooked the fact that they might try to initiate contact with him.

Zanack made a mental note of that, and shook his head.

“That is to say, you came all this way to see me for some other reason?”

“I think that once their emissary arrives, it would be better for you to offer twice as much as what you are currently imagining, Onii-sama. Half of that is a token of thanks for their coming all this way, while the other half ― I trust that goes without saying?”

Indeed, it was a very good move.

The fact that Renner had instantly solved a problem which had been troubling him for a long time once more struck fear into Zanack's heart. In addition, as long as Renner possessed her powerful subordinates, even assassination would not be effective. That being the case, his only option was to try and appease her.

“I understand. I shall obey any orders that you give me, Onii-sama.”

“I see. My deepest thanks.”

“You may take any of the orphans to be your children. In that respect you may do as you please.”

The fact that she replied without a delay was evidence that Renner already knew what Zanack was going to say.

Ahh, come to think of it, I heard of her fetish back then.

“Then, I do look forward to the day you will become King, Onii-sama. After your coronation, I would be happy if you would think of me from time to time as I live on a farm.”

Zanack turned his gaze to the soldier that was jogging over to them.

He had fought to protect the King on that battlefield. Now that the Warrior-Captain was gone, he had a good position and the trust of the King. Incidentally, Renner's two subordinates enjoyed that same trust.

“My Prince, His Majesty desires your presence.”

“He requests your presence as well, my Princess.”

“We have just received a report that the Sorcerer King will be sending a diplomatic party to call on us soon.”

“I understand. Notify him that we will be arriving shortly. My sister, I will be proceeding first. Please proceed with all haste once you are ready.”

Given that she had been at the orphanage until recently, Renner's clothes were plain and weathered. Appearing like that before the nobles would only embarrass herself.

“Hmph. Things being as they are, that proposal is no longer appealing. Ah, it's too late, after all.”

It was estimated that the envoys of the Sorcerous Kingdom would take about a week to travel from E-Rantel to the Royal Capital.

Zanack, dressed in armor that he was not accustomed to, stood in line with his knights at the gates of the Royal Capital which faced E-Rantel.

However, one could see heavy cloud cover in the distance. It would seem the azure sky was limited to the air directly above the Royal Capital.

He had been working in the Royal Palace for a long time now, and he could predict the next day's weather with over 90% accuracy. Thus, when he declared that this was impossible, it implied that these blue skies were anything but natural.

He had never heard of weather-controlling magic from his teachers. However, that Sorcerer King might well be able to use such magic with contemptuous ease.

He had gathered the knowledge from his adventurers, compiled it, and called it the Tiger Scroll. It contained information on various kinds and appearances of magic items, the types and powers of various monsters, all sorts of spells, and so on.

He had tried to find nobles who had learned from adventurers, like Raeven had, but sadly, there were none. This was not because these nobles were stupid, but because they lived in a completely different world from those adventurers. While some nobles did hire adventurers, it was merely to make use of their strength. The nobles were not interested in the adventuring world or the news which adventurers had.

It's probably hard to find retired adventurers ― especially those of mithril rank and above.

Zanack's heart sank as he thought about that.

The shout of the knight next to him brought Zanack back to his senses. He looked to the end of the street ― and saw it.

They had exerted pressure beforehand to shut this street down for today, closing it to traffic. As a result, nobody would be popping out of doors behind them. The city gates had also been locked down just for today.

“Sir!”

“All right! Then, show them the utmost respect, and impress the glory of the Kingdom upon them!”

The group remained absolutely still until the envoys had arrived.

It was a black-armored knight. It rode a red-eyed unicorn that had a jet black body and sported two horns on its head. One could imagine that the rider was not human either. It emanated an aura of mortal danger, as radiant as the sun. Its full plate armor pulsed as if it was alive.

It clenched its clawed gauntlet and thumped its chest.

One might compare that voice to music squeezed out of rotted instruments. It made its listeners' hair stand on end just by hearing it. Zanack gathered up his courage to banish his fear, and then he spoke.

“Acknowledged. Then, we shall avail ourselves of your guidance. This one ― forgive me, this one does not bear a name, so please allow this one to introduce itself by the name of its species. This one is a Death Cavalier!”

“Then, may I address you as Cavalier-dono?”

“I see. Then, may I greet the leader of the envoys? As the Second Prince, I am also responsible for said leader's actions within the Kingdom. If possible, I would like to explain the circumstances to your leader.”

“You have my deepest thanks.”

While the whole process sounded quite laughable at times, he was facing up against the Sorcerous Kingdom, after all. It was a nation that could control the undead and make use of monsters, so it would be best to assume that the usual ways of doing things were inapplicable here. He felt stupid for even expecting the leader of the envoys to have a vaguely human shape.

“Sir!”

The envoys had passed through several towns on the way here, which was how Zanack knew of the party's composition.

Each of them was pulled by a horse-shaped monster that radiated an inauspicious air. Then, there were numerous Death Cavaliers, who had been tasked with perimeter security. There were also other monsters beside them.

A Death Cavalier ― probably the same one from just now ― approached him from the envoys' side.

After signalling to the other knights to hold their position, Zanack guided his horse after the Death Cavalier.

After all, Zanack was moving amongst monsters he had never seen before.

Zanack's horse could not keep itself from breaking out into a cold sweat as it approached the coach. Zanack dismounted, standing before the coach.

What sort of monster is going to show up next? Zanack willed his expression not to change.

What he saw there ― was beautiful.

Nobody in this world could possibly possess looks comparable to Renner's. Zanack had believed this until now, but then he realised that was mistaken. If Renner's was a radiant beauty, then Albedo's was a seductive beauty tinged in darkness.

Zanack immediately genuflected before her and lowered his head.

“Could you please raise your head?”

“At once.”

This was a practiced attitude which superior men would adopt ― no, was she even human?

Whether they were magic items or if she was actually a heteromorphic creature, neither of them seemed particularly bizarre once he considered that she hailed from the Sorcerous Kingdom.

“You have my deepest thanks.”

Though he had learned her name was Albedo through conversation, was that really all?

This was why Jircniv Rune Farlord El-Nix and his four names were mocked for not being an actual member of royalty. However, a name like Albedo sounded like an alias, or a nickname. One could not possibly be as foolish as to address a member of the nobility by such a moniker.

The reason why he said this was because many nobles had died in the previous battlefield. It was not just family heads who perished, but even the firstborn heirs of some families. Currently, many noble families were led by the “spares”, the second or third sons.

Under normal circumstances, they would have been properly educated by the higher-ups in their faction, but the previous war meant that they no longer had the manpower for such efforts. As a result, many incompetent people were forced onto the center stage, and these incompetent people gathered together to form a faction of incompetents.

“…Forgive me, but may I know how I should properly address you, Albedo-sama?”

Normally, he should have asked. “What title do you hold among the peerage, Albedo-sama, or perhaps what is your position in the Sorcerous Kingdom?”

Still, that was the fault of the Sorcerous Kingdom.

All Zanack knew about Albedo was that she was the leader of the envoys, and the hand of the Sorcerer King.

As though sensing his worries, Albedo answered:

“Ohh, I see.”

Albedo continued speaking, having seemingly seen through his concealed confusion:

“Ohhh, I see now!”

Ainz-sama, it looks like she's close enough to address him in that manner. So she's a marchioness, no, a duchess, perhaps? I need to get this information back to the others. But still, Guardian… Overseer?

“It is fine.”

Normally, she should have been thanking the Prince. However, he could clearly sense who was the superior party from her attitude.

“…In addition, we would normally ring the bells in celebration, but the unfortunate misunderstanding between our countries led to tragedy, so please forgive us for not doing so. In addition, the common folk do not yet know of your arrival, so please take that into consideration.”

He had no idea what would the people would do if they knew that an emissary of the Sorcerer King had come to call on them. In that respect, Albedo's answer was a great relief.

He was not at all worried that the envoys would be attacked by an angry mob. Those Death Cavaliers ― indeed, everyone present was probably very strong, even within the Sorcerous Kingdom. He could easily believe that each of them was a match for that Gazef Stronoff.

“Of course! I will answer as long as it is in my power to do so.”

“Yes! First, there is a dinner scheduled with myself and the rest of the Royal Family tonight. Tomorrow, we will visit the theaters in the day to watch the dances and hold a dinner party at night, where all the nobles of the Kingdom will be invited. The day after that will feature a concert by the Palace's orchestra ― after which we will begin the diplomatic negotiations.”

“Of course. We shall select exceptional knights to serve as your guards.”

“May I know if any place interests you?”

“No… there are no places which particularly interest me. Since I do not know which locations are worth visiting in the capital, could you guide me on a tour?”

Albedo smiled as she nodded.

For the past month or so, Philip felt that he was one of the luckiest men in the Kingdom.

Nobles ― huh.

This was only the second time he had participated in a noble party like this. Still, perhaps he should say that this was expected of a dinner party organized by the Royal Family ― the sheer decadence of this event outshone the one he had previously attended.

As he thought, the upper-class nobles had really awesome clothes.

It's all because I have no money.

Well, money's scarce because the family heads until now were useless. So once I become the next head, I'll make my domain wealthier.

Similar to commoners, third sons were not individuals who were particularly welcome in noble families. No matter how rich a family was, splitting its assets multiple ways would ultimately weaken it. Therefore, it was all inherited by the eldest son. In this respect, the nobles followed the same basic principle as the commoners.

Once the eldest son came of age ― in other words, when the chances of him dying of disease were greatly decreased ― the third son Philip was no longer necessary to his family.

That was why Philip felt he was lucky.

Since his eldest brother ― the first son ― was already a man by then, there was no longer any value to his elder brother, the second son. In addition, theirs was not a wealthy fief, and they could only use herbs instead of priests to treat him. In the end, his condition had taken a turn for the worse, and he shuffled off the mortal coil.

Things like these were not uncommon.

Several years after reaching adulthood, it was time for Philip's elder brother to take over the family estate. Then, that war with the Empire had broken out. If it had been like previous years, it should have ended after a few bumps and scrapes. Therefore, it was a safe way for his elder brother to obtain a battle record, and his family could take pride in the fact that they had pledged men to the battle.

He had been consumed by the Sorcerer King's magic, and perished with the twenty peasants that went with him.

His elder brother's body was missing, and so was the suit of full plate armor passed down from his ancestors. Still, that was not a big problem. Once his domain grew wealthier, he would make a better suit of armor for himself. The more important thing was that the title of estate heir had gone from unattainable to practically his.

If his brother had died after inheriting the family estate, Philip would have had to spend his time waiting for his nephew to grow into a man. However, since his brother had died without claiming his inheritance, his lordship was a done deal.

Because of that, Philip even felt something like goodwill toward the Sorcerer King that he had never met before. If only he could convey his gratitude directly to the Sorcerer King's emissary.

That's right. I'm going to ride on my streak of luck. How can I let such a good chance get away before my eyes?

He could only think of his father and elder brother as idiots after seeing what they had been doing all this time. Why don't you do this? Doesn't this bring you more benefits? Of course, he never told them that to their faces.

I will let the nearby lords know that I am the one who deserves this title. I will let Father know how poor his taste was in choosing Nii-san. Selling the good-quality wheat and vegetables to those traders ― no, what should I do? That would draw too much attention, and what if my revolutionary proposal was stolen by others? Still, there's no money without trade. I need to find tight-lipped and reliable merchants ― in other words, not that guy.

The unpleasant memory of that man overcame his joy at being able to stand in this lavish hall.

Philip had already found his own underground connections during his few weeks in the Royal Capital. His pride at this chased away the unhappiness in his heart.

Just as Philip was envisioning his glorious golden future, a male voice rang through the hall.

At this moment, the grand hall's orchestra lowered their instruments, and the mood of joviality in the air died down.

“Albedo-sama serves as the right hand of the His Majesty the Sorcerer King in the Sorcerous Kingdom, and commands a position equivalent to that of a prime minister as a Guardian Overseer. Albedo-sama will grace us alone this evening.”

Coming by oneself is all well and good. But to think someone like that would serve as an emissary! Does the Sorcerous Kingdom truly have such high hopes for the Kingdom?

“Then, let us welcome the leader of the envoys, Albedo-sama!”

A goddess-like woman stood there. Her perfect features were more beautiful than any peasant, more beautiful than any whore in the Kingdom's brothels, more beautiful than any woman Philip had ever seen in his life. Of course, the Princess from earlier was pretty, but Philip preferred what he was seeing now.

Philip looked at the woman who had spoken earlier. She was standing in place with a retarded look on her face.

The elation he felt at at the Sorcerous Kingdom's triumph ― to which he was favourably inclined ― made the joy of victory surge up in his heart.

Ranpossa III rose to welcome Albedo.

Philip could only see a side of Albedo's face, but when he saw Albedo's tender smile, he was acutely aware of one thing.

“I do hope you will forgive me for taking a seat, due to my age. Then, nobles of the Kingdom. Our main guest has arrived. Tonight, please enjoy yourselves to your hearts' content. Then, Albedo-dono, I hope you will enjoy yourself as well.

A sweet smile bloomed on Albedo's face.

He burned the image of her speaking closely with Princess Renner into his eyes.

He understood that it would be a very difficult task. However, when one thought about it, it was not completely impossible.

Philip felt a wave of heat surge up from his lower body.

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Philip looked back and forth between Renner and Albedo.

Come to think of it, how did they make this ice? Is it magic…

Since they're in my domain, I'll have them heal me for free next time. A mere resident daring to charge his lord money, how ridiculous is that!

He looked forward to getting to work on his domain once he returned. He could imagine all his brilliant ideas being put into action, lighting up his life with golden radiance.

When he looked back to Albedo, he saw her standing by herself.

The Sorcerous Kingdom, huh… What will become of the Kingdom after this?

That being the case―

―Oi oi, don't think about such dangerous things. It's just… well, it's not exactly a bad move, right? How should I say this… I can't believe I actually thought of an idea like that…

There's no use in being third. There's no point in being second. The most important thing is to be the first.

Do it. You have to make a gamble to get a return. The chance to rise has come because everything has changed. I'm a lucky man, so I should make good use of my luck.

Then, he recalled some words he had heard recently. A certain very skinny landlady had said, “Why not make a faction of your own?”

It was unlike the watery wine he had drunk at home. It felt like his throat and belly were burning. As though propelled by the heat which rose from his belly, Philip stepped forward.

Thanks to his voice, Albedo turned her smile to him.

“Ara, how do you do―”

“I am Philip.”

“The pleasure is all mine, Albedo-sama. Nothing could delight me more than to make your acquaintance.”

A quick glance aside revealed that the higher-ranked nobles had shocked looks on their faces.

He could not stem the joy within him as he realised all eyes at the dinner party sponsored by the Royal Family were on him.

To think that he ― who had only eaten cold meals in the past ― was now the focus of these people who stood at the pinnacle of the Kingdom. As he thought about this, an unexpected excitement took control of Philip.

Philip racked his brains, and then made the biggest bet in his life.

♦ ♦ ♦

“You moron!”

Philip looked disdainfully at the white-haired man before him.

Philip sighed as his father asked him about the dinner at the Royal Palace.

The Royal Family's dinner party gathered people from both factions. When this happened, the fact that the head of a family had changed would probably not come up. Thus, nobody would pay too much attention to that fact and he would be readily accepted by others. After that, once they had tacitly acknowledged him, it would be quite difficult for them to protest that fact.

As Philip realised this, he strove to suppress the annoyance within him, and put on a fake smile.

“―What do you mean, 'our house'? What you've done is completely absurd!”

Was he supposed to pretend to be polite to all those incompetent cowards and remain in this pathetic place for the rest of his life?

His father's face was even redder than before.

So what, Philip thought.

“What on earth are you thinking?!”

The fact that he actually had to explain such self-evident things struck him as terribly stupid. Still, it had to be said.

He swallowed the word “my” the moment he thought of it. Sooner or later it would be true, but for now, it was not entirely his.

“Cheh! What do you mean, way out? What do you think the surrounding lords will think when they hear about what you've done?!”

Many people within Philip's domain had died because of that battle. The same applied to the surrounding estates. Therefore, they would not have the excess strength needed to attack Philip's domain.

“Hah?” Philip replied. He had no idea what his father was getting at.

“―I think you should stop there for now,” interrupted the man who had been standing behind his father all this time.

His father worked to get his breathing under control once he heard the butler's words. The red in his face receded, leaving a pale, anemic face.

“They're nothing to be scared of, no?”

Had he missed out something? Still, he could not think of what that might be.

Cold sweat broke out on Philip's back. His father had a point.

Philip racked his brains. He had a good head on his shoulders. He should be able to refute any number of his stupid father's assertions.

His father bade him to continue.

“…Then let me ask you something. If you were someone from the Sorcerous Kingdom ― no, if you were the king of a certain country, and a village from a country that you were at war with asked you for food, would you give it to them?”

“―Why is that?”

“…Apart from that?”

His father's jaw dropped. He must have been impressed. Still, that sort of reaction was quite strange. After all, the Sorcerer King would surely want to be known as a kind ruler, particularly since the Sorcerous Kingdom had been founded on E-Rantel and the area surrounding that city. He would surely make some concessions to quiet them.

“Impossible. It's fanciful thinking. Besides, that sort of cause won't work at all.”

“Let's back up a bit here. Let's assume it's really as you say, father. Isn't that more of a reason to deepen our relationship with the Sorcerous Kingdom?”

His father was at a loss for words.

“Of course I do. However, it would be better not to have it than be destroyed, no?”

“That was war, father. What difference does it make if they died to swords or spells?”

That was not trust, though there was some goodwill there. More importantly, they were all just pawns for Philip to play in order to improve his lot in life.

Philip grew excited as he imagined himself playing a massive ― on the scale of nations ― game of chess.

“I tire of this… Did you thank the Count for the dinner party? I'm asking about whether he acknowledged you as the new family head.”

Even if he was the head of the faction, why did he have to bow his head to a count who was nothing more than an outsider?

In other words, there was no reason to bow and scrape to him.

“Of course.”

With that done with, just as Philip was beginning to feel at ease, the butler interrupted again from behind.

“That's right, Philip! What were you thinking? Our family doesn't have a place to host a ball!”

There were small mansions set aside for their visits to the Capital.

Still, that problem had already been dealt with.

“Ohh, could it be the Count?”

“No, it's a place belonging to someone I know in the Royal Capital. The landlady there said she could loan it to me. The fact was, I spoke with her before I came back, and she assured me that it would be fine.”

Philip sighed internally at the butler's question.

“It's free of charge.”

“Yes.”

“I do not believe such good fortune would fall upon you just like that… Could you have been deceived?”

“I'll owe a favor, but since I promised to return that favor, it will be fine.”

What is he saying, Philip thought. This event was being run by his family to raise their reputation. Why, after putting in all that hard work and preparation, did he have to hand over the most beneficial part of that to others?

“It'll be fine. I've asked the landlady who lent me the venue to help me with the preparation work. Of course, I will decide the guest list.”

“I do, to some extent, and I intend to invite some special people this time. The landlady has already given me their names.”

Doubt appeared in his father's eyes.

“Father! How can you say that? I came up with this and made it happen! It's true that I had to borrow some help to do it. But that landlady agreed that my plan had merits after she heard it ― which means that she saw that my plan could succeed, and she felt that I could pay the appropriate price! What have you been thinking all this while? Under normal circumstances, you should be giving me your full support as the next head of the family!”

She was completely different from that Count who controlled his father, stole all the gains away, and left him with nothing.

“…Forgive me. But can you tell me the name of that landlady?”

“Her name is Hilma Cygnaeus. Have you heard that name before?”

The butler shook his head. Philip was proud that he had managed to acquaint himself with someone that even his father, who had long immersed himself in noble society, did not know.

His exhausted father had no response to this.

Part 4

He could not help but think of how to show this off to others. Granted, Hilma had arranged the preparations for this venue. However, she had asked him beforehand: “Should I arrange for a regular ballroom event, or an incomparable spectacle? The latter will require a heftier favor in return?” and Philip had chosen the latter without any hesitation.

It was perfect. However, it was because of this that Philip felt very unhappy about a certain detail.

In other words, he was the host and the one who had worked to make this happen, so he was the one who should have been receiving words of praise and nods of gratitude. They should have been thanking Philip for inviting them to such an event. They should also have been praising his courage in inviting the emissary of the Sorcerous Kingdom, who nobody else had dared approach.

The first person everyone spoke to once they came here was Hilma. Only after that did they come to greet him. In addition, they only did so reluctantly, after Hilma mentioned Philip's name. What would they have done if she had not brought it up?

That's why you're all a useless lot. Cheh, it seems accepting Hilma's suggestion was a bad idea.

The nobles he had chosen were newly elevated heads of their families thanks to the war with the Sorcerous Kingdom, or those who would soon become the heads of their families. In other words, these people were in similar situations to Philip.

However―

He looked over the guests who had just arrived, and then he walked toward Hilma.

Those idiots buried in their family trees were truly idiots. That was why they had messed up on the person to whom they should have first spoken to. Or rather, one could say there was no other reason for that.

This might be a chance for him. Since this was their error, he would consider them to owe him one for not speaking to him first, and then he would collect on it in future.

She was a woman who was little more than a bag of skin and bones.

“Philip-sama, it seems all the invited guests have arrived.”

She cackled.

“No, certainly not.”

“There's no need to lie. I am your supporter in this because I stand to gain from it, Philip-sama. We cannot have any secrets between us.”

That was it.

This was the proper attitude a commoner should have toward a noble.

“Is something the matter, Philip-sama?”

“What discomforts you? Is something lacking? If that is so, shall I prepare it before the emissary-dono arrives?”

“I see, so that's how it is.”

She was too skinny to inspire lust. Even so, her charm was such that it made him gulp.

“No―”

“Yes, indeed, that's right.”

“Because you stand to gain from it, am I right?”

Hilma chuckled.

Everything Hilma said was correct.

She had broad contacts, great wealth, and had access to a great many things which Philip could not obtain within the Royal Capital. Her explanation for why someone like her would want to curry favor with him was also quite reasonable. In addition, his terms of repayment were also very simple, which was why he felt at ease in making use of her.

Hilma's eyes widened a little, and then she smiled happily.

“Ah, leave that to me… Then, may I ask another question of my supporter?”

“…May I know why you are so slim? Does something about your body trouble you?”

“Oh, it is not a problem worth mentioning, no.”

Hilma smiled. This was the first time Philip had seen a smile which conveyed such unease without words.

Her mood returned to normal, as though nothing had happened.

“Oh, ohhh, really, then that's good. However… why can't you eat solid food?”

The change was greater than before, and it made Philip anxious.

“Ah, ahhh, my apologies. I simply remembered some things.”

“Ah― my apologies for making you remember something unpleasant.”

“Philip-sama, I believe it is about time to summon the emissary. I believe that if you were to be her escort, everyone would look at you with different eyes. That would prove you were the organizer more than any number of words ― it would show who is the most powerful person here.”

Because she had showed up alone at the Royal Family's dinner party, Philip had thought that sort of thing was normal. So it was not. It shamed him to know that was not the case, and he put on an act of having forgotten but just remembered.

A sadistic glee awoke in Philip's heart. Some of the nobles here were higher-placed than him and had larger domains than himself. What sort of expressions would they show him, he who had once been regarded as the burden of his family―

“Then, I shall have one of my people show you the way there.”

He knocked on the door, and then opened it.

She wore a jet-black dress, a different one from their encounter in the Royal Palace. Her bare shoulders gleamed like alabaster, and while her necklace consisted of large gemstones linked together, it did not seem tacky, but instead accentuated her beauty.

Philip blushed in spite of himself.

“Yes. Please permit me to be your escort.”

A fragrance came from his side. What kind of perfume is this, it makes my heart feels so light. Although he subconsciously wanted to sniff at it, that would have been terribly rude.

“There are many nobles in the ballroom. All of them have gathered to see you, Albedo-sama.”

“Is that really true? Thank you for your assistance, Philip-sama.”

While this probably was not the case, could it be that she was starting to like him?

When one thought of it that way, he was quite the catch himself.

“Come to think of it, are you already wed, Albedo-sama?”

Philip felt shame creep up through him as he realised that he had asked an inappropriate question.

“Is that so? Given your beauty, I would have expected the suitors to come thick and fast, Albedo-sama.”

“Is that so…”

There was a strange gichiri sound. Philip looked to his right to see where it came from.

His tiny doubts faded away as Albedo asked him that question with a smile on her face.

♦ ♦ ♦

How did this scene appear to these fancily-dressed nobles?

First-class cuisine, first-class servants, first-class utensils, first-class music, and below third-rate trash nobles.

The looks on their faces said everything.

Then again, this place had always been intended to be a feeding ground.

It had been several months since the war with the Sorcerous Kingdom, but the scars it left behind were large and could not fully heal. Several factions had dissolved because of this and new ones had risen to take their place. The upper-class noble houses had been displaced by the those families which had previously been lower-ranking.

Because of that, this gathering was a gigantic feeding ground for them.

In contrast, would the small fry be eaten without them ever noticing? Or would they realize something and skilfully disengage? Or perhaps ― would there be nobles filled with desire who would turn their tables on their would-be devourers?

Even so, she was not disappointed by this outcome. Indeed, she would be worried if there were any first-rate nobles parading themselves in a dangerous place like this.

Still, that would be interesting, she thought.

Then, it's about time, no?

Hilma's real work was only beginning.

Her previous arrogance vanished as if it had been nothing more than a lie.

Of course, if she actually did that, she would assuredly suffer a fate which would make that hell feel like blissful paradise.

“―Hilma.”

When she turned around, she saw the stupidest man in this hall.

“No, Philip-sama, nothing is wrong.”

“Albedo-sama wanted to rest for about ten minutes, so I came to find you.”

“Really? Then, I shall go too.”

With caution in her heart, Hilma continued her act:

“Why is that? I was by Albedo-sama's side until just now. It shouldn't be strange for us to go together, right?”

In other words, he was a moron amongst morons, a good-for-nothing with neither the knowledge nor the etiquette to be a nobleman.

“Ahhh. However, my plan is to immediately return once I get there.”

“Ahh…”

The truth was, she wanted to get this over with as soon as possible. Unfortunately, this imbecile was also the driving force behind this gathering. She could not be too rude towards him.

“Haaaah?!”

“Eh? Say what?”

Seriously?!

Perhaps if he had asked to marry Princess Renner instead, Hilma might have been less shocked.

Without her realizing it, Hilma's throat had contracted tightly.

No, that was not a thing which could be summed up with the word “trauma”.

“In, in any case, it's hardly workable. I heard she holds a position equivalent to that of a prime minister in the Sorcerous Kingdom. That is to say, she would be a duchess in the Kingdom.”

“No, no, you can't speak of it that way.”

It was true that in terms of territory, the Sorcerous Kingdom was not large, even with the Katze Plains factored in. However, was their military power not overwhelmingly superior? Regardless of how much effort one put into trade, diplomacy and other fields, relationships between nations were still decided by their comparative military strengths. It did not matter how large a nation's territory was, because once that nation lost, it would all be taken away.

Hilma pondered deeply, but could not find an answer. After all, wisdom and stupidity were two sides of the same coin.

“It cannot be done. There is no chance that woman would wed you, Philip-sama.”

So that's what he was thinking, Hilma thought in surprise.

Hilma felt something sour rising up from her stomach.

“…Perhaps I've said too much. Please allow me to escort Albedo-sama. You should stay here and enjoy yourself as the host, Philip-sama.”

I'd do that without you having to say it. Hilma lowered her head, keeping those words in her heart. Then, in order not to hear any more of that nitwit's babblings, she made a beeline to Albedo's side.

“Forgive me, Albedo-sama, it seems it is about time for you to have a rest.”

Taking Albedo by the hand, Hilma led Albedo out of the ballroom.

Hilma turned around as she heard the voice from behind her. If things were really that bad, what should she do?

Albedo's eyes met Hilma's.

Her words were accompanied by a gnashing of teeth. To think that her face, which typically bore a gentle smile, would actually display her displeasure so openly. Was that an indicator of how unhappy she really was?

“…What should I do? Say something.”

“Ara, if that's the case… can you get rid of that creature and then prop up another human in his place?”

Albedo opened her mouth, and then closed it. She repeated that action several times.

That said, it did not matter what she chose. Only hell would await him. Still, whatever happened to that idiotic Philip, one could only say that he had asked for it.

Hilma recalled the conversation from just now, the wild fantasies and ravings of the absolute madman who wanted to marry Albedo.

No, that was too scary. She could not possibly bring herself to tell Albedo. After all, she might get caught up in that as well.

“Indeed. Soon I'll be able to splatter him all over the ground. He must be punished for the crime of touching this body of mine, which belongs to Ainz-sama, with his filthy hands.”

Once she reached that room, Hilma nearly collapsed due to her legs going soft in relief. Handling that woman alone ― a confidant of that demon king who could even subdue that Jaldabaoth ― had drained an enormous amount of her stamina. However, not being able to remain standing was absolutely forbidden.

“This way, please.”

They were also the people she trusted most in this world. In the past, they had feuded over profits, but now they no longer thought that way. After learning about the link between Jaldabaoth and the Sorcerous Kingdom, their fates were now linked. They had no choice but to work like slaves until this country was consumed and they were liberated.

Hilma closed the door to the room, and Albedo took the highest-placed seat in the room. The men and Hilma did not sit down, but remained standing as they awaited their orders.

“Understood, I am eager to serve.”

The Smuggling Division's leader had lost a lot of power in the traders' guild during Jaldabaoth's disturbance, when much of his resources had been stolen away. Even so, there were advantages to being in his position. This was because his dealings with the nobles that had taken part in the war against the Sorcerous Kingdom had been conducted entirely with cash. Or perhaps, it would be more accurate to say that his power was slowly returning now that the merchants ― who had extended credit to the nobles ― were now agonizing about repayment.

The future which she spoke of would surely come to pass, given the massive drop in the kingdom's workforce.

“These are especially important. Make sure they're in the first shipment to come over.”

“Then, what news is there about magic items?”

“My deepest apologies!”

“My subordinates are currently infiltrating the Magician's Guild to conduct an in-depth investigation on them. If I can be allowed a little more time ― no, if you are willing to accept an in-progress report, I can deliver one right now!”

The colleagues in question were meant to fill the empty seats of the Eight Fingers as the new division heads.

It was a fiendish rite which broke the will and completely erased any inkling of resistance within its subjects. If any of the people in this room were told they would have to undergo it again, there was no doubt that they would start bawling like children.

This was the truth, and it was also a lie.

“The gentlemen we were allowed to borrow have performed very well. It might not be out of the question to have them serve as division heads themselves.”

Once they realised that the Six Arms were dead, a group of subordinates ― the leaders of whom had originally been Workers ― began plotting a violent overthrow. As a result, they sent out one of those undead creatures. In the end, that entity had eliminated nearly 40 people without letting a single one escape.

“…I understand. It will be fine as long as the organization can function as normal. Then, do you have any particular requests for me?”

“Hmm, of course. If you can pay the appropriate fee, there will be no problem.”

The speaker's forehead began sweating profusely. He wiped at it with a handkerchief which was so wet it had changed color.

They did not take everything away like the strong would do with the weak, but they conducted business like skilled traders and played by the rules. As long as they did not show any signs of betrayal, they might even feel the peace of mind that came from being protected by powerful beings. Of course, if the chance presented itself, they would still choose to flee in terror.

“Understood!”

None of them would possibly object to the Sorcerous Kingdom devouring the Kingdom. Since these monsters had made their declaration, it was only a matter of time before it surely came to pass.

“Oh right, right―”

“There's one more thing I wanted to say. There's a magic item that I want you to use your intelligence networks to locate for me. Record your findings on a parchment at regular intervals and send them to Albedo in the Sorcerous Kingdom. However, I don't know anything about its external appearance, so there is that.”

“It's a magic item that can control a target's mind.”

“No, it feels like it should be something stronger. I'm looking for something not in general circulation, a legendary item, or at least news about it. You must let me know anything you find, however insignificant it might be. Do you understand?”

It was obvious why she would be wary of such an item, and so they immediately showed that they understood.

“Pri-Pri-Princess-sama!”

She had not knocked, which was hardly an act that was worthy of praise, but instead implied something had happened which flustered her to the extent of not doing so.

“What's going on?”

That tic had probably come from her anger within. Why was this princess so daft while she herself was so worried?

The sound of doing so seemed to jolt the maid back to reality, and she hastily sprang into action.

“It's okay, It'll be fine, Calm down, take a deep breath.”

“N-no, that's not it. The Sorcerous Kingdom's emissary-sama says she wants to meet you, Renner-sama!”

“Yes, a very beautiful lady!”

Well, it's fine, Renner thought. The more silly things she did, the more she built a reputation which she could use. It was all just setup, anyway.

He must not have been able to follow what was going on.

There was probably no way he could figure out why the emissary was coming here to meet Renner. He had already seen her exchange greetings with Renner. That being the case, speaking with the Third Princess ― who was little more than an ornament ― would not bring any benefits to the Sorcerous Kingdom. At least, that was what Climb should be thinking.

What they said about children being cuter the dumber they were was most assuredly true. Or rather, one could say that one loved them despite their shortcomings. Well, it was probably correct no matter how you looked at it.

Although she was driven by the impulse to look into Climb's sparkling eyes forever, she had to bear with it for now. At least, until the moment she was enveloped by that delicious sugary candy.

Tilting her delicate little head was very important. Doing so would induce a negative reaction in the worried party. Its effectiveness had been proven after several experiments.

They were flames of anger. At the same moment, Climb's armor clattered softly.

How adorable.

That was because it would be better not to move if Renner had not noticed. The maid was the heiress of a good family, and no matter what Climb said, one word to her parents and Renner might be in trouble. Climb had probably thought of that.

Renner resisted the desire to turn to look at Climb, who was standing behind her. This was because the interfering maid opened her mouth to speak:

“Is that so… Albedo-sama's a woman too, so maybe it's girl talk… is it about makeup?”

“I do not know about that either. Then, may I bring her in?”

After her reply of feigned delight, Renner turned to look at Climb.

“Understood.”

When Albedo entered the room, there was only one person inside.

The first was the transportation of resources. The second was to create a casus belli. The third was to lay the foundation for her personal objectives. The fourth was to make a trade with the owner of this room.

Albedo strode across the room and took a seat without waiting for the owner of the room to give her permission.

“You may raise your head.”

The girl called Renner lifted her face.

“Thank you very much, Albedo-sama.”

Albedo seemed quite interested in Renner's reaction, which was completely unlike what she had shown thus far.

She had betrayed her family, her bloodline and her people, but there was not a shred of regret on her face. She was human, yet she was inhuman. Perhaps she was a spiritual heteromorph. Her mind comprehended good and evil, but that was all. She was the type who was not bound by the petty constraints of morality, but who calmly worked to advance her own agenda.

Albedo reached into the air, and pulled out the item which her master had given her for safekeeping.

“This would be…”

Indeed, she was a guinea pig. But because of that, both sides shared the same goals.

“That I promise you. I trust I need not waste words on the other item you want?”

The girl smiled.

That was why she asked:

What would the others in Nazarick think if they saw Albedo showing concern over a human being? That said, if her wish really did come true, then this could be regarded as preparatory work for her elevation to a status equivalent to that of an Area Guardian. In that case, it was perfectly understandable to show concern over a candidate for a subordinate's position.

“Really now. Then, make sure they're finished before we invade.”

As the girl lowered her head again, a pair of eyes appeared in her shadow.

Albedo considered whether or not to lend her extra reinforcements, but in the end she decided not to mention it.

In other words, all this was a test.

There seemed to be a change in Albedo's tone, and there was a surprising expression on Renner's face.

Albedo was greeted with a full-faced smile.

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“I would love to, Albedo-sama. In addition, if I may, could you tell me about His Majesty as well?”

Chapter end