Overlord (Light Novel) Chapter 77

Volume 10 – Epilogue

The sensation of returning after a long time was probably an illusion of some sort. After all, he returned to this place from time to time, and the longest stretch of time he had been away from here was a fortnight at the most. Thus, the reason for his misperception was clearly due to the joy he felt at walking through this place.

Demiurge paid no heed to the guards Cocytus had stationed on either side of the doors as he adjusted his tie and inspected his appearance. Naturally, he paid attention to it at all times, but he did not want his master to see a side of him which was less than immaculate.

One of the maids opened the door, poking her head out to see who was calling.

“May I know if Ainz-sama is in his room?”

His mood plummeted but he did not let it show on his face.

“My sincerest apologies, I do not know… However, Albedo-sama might know something about it.”

“Really now. Then, where is Albedo now?”

Demiurge knew Albedo treated her master's room as her workroom. Can't you just use the room you've been assigned, he often thought, but after considering her personality, he ended up keeping quiet. The most important thing was his master's approval. With that, there was nothing else for him to add.

“Understood.”

“Please come in, Demiurge-sama.”

Her lowered line of sight moved, and caught hold of Demiurge.

“Ah, Demiurge. You've worked hard abroad. What is it today?”

“He is somewhat far away. I doubt he will be able to return quickly…”

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“That is somewhat of an inconvenience. Then, I shall perform preparation work on the 7th Floor until Ainz-sama returns.”

Demiurge frowned, and observed Albedo's expression.

If she was just toying with him, it would be fine.

It ached at him, but then again, this was not a contest in the first place.

Demiurge shrugged.

“Ainz-sama did not mention how long he would be gone. He might take a very long time.”

“Ara? Why is that? If it is truly important, would it not be more loyal to inform him as soon as possible?”

It would seem there was something she wanted to say, no matter what.

“I desire to display my achievements to Ainz-sama, so I do not wish to use such methods to contact him. While I can receive his praise through a [Message], in the end, I would still prefer to hear his voice in person. That is all… Is that not the shared dream for all in Nazarick?”

“Then, where has Ainz-sama gone?”

“Who accompanies him?”

That should be fine in terms of combat strength. However other aspects were more worrisome.

“Still, by bringing Shalltear along, does he intend to destroy the Dwarf Kingdom?”

“—What are the other Guardians doing?”

“…There is insufficient information for that. Why did Ainz-sama want to go to the Dwarf Kingdom?”

It was as Albedo said.

That said, sensing his master's will and preparing for it was a mark of true loyalty.

As Demiurge rebuilt his conviction once more, Albedo picked up a piece of parchment from the table.

Demiurge was shocked. This was much earlier than he had anticipated.

“That is the result of Ainz-sama's visit to the Empire.”

“Say, Demiurge. Did you really think the Empire would only become a vassal after the Kingdom would?”

“Regardless of what methods you used?”

“Ainz-sama often mentioned your name. It came up in the context of 'Did you hear from Demiurge? Then it should be all right.' In other words, there was something about you — about your plan which he could not accept.”

“If what is the case?”

“…Let me ask you again. Was there no way to make the Empire a vassal before the Kingdom?”

“I was in the Kingdom, so I am not sure, but I think it was three days at the most.”

That was too fast.

Although Demiurge had prepared a perfect plan that would render the Emperor unable to take action, his master seemed to have crafted a scheme which surpassed even that.

“Incidentally, there were almost no casualties.”

The trembling he felt just now spread from the top of his head to his entire body. Savage delight, admiration, fear and respect mixed within him, and this complex blend of emotions made Demiurge shudder without end.

Albedo went kuku, her smile full of superiority.

“In addition, Ainz-sama has ordered us to decide how to handle the vassalage of the Kingdom.”

“Is that not obvious? Much of the developments in this field have been due to the use of your plan, Demiurge. Even so, Ainz-sama said nothing to you and pushed the vassalization of the Empire forward with his own plan. Thus, his heart ached.”

“…Why? I do not understand.”

“It is because he trusts you. In other words… how shall I put this. You should be able to understand it with that mind of yours, but this is probably how it is. Not following your plan is equivalent to doubting your abilities. Ainz-sama awaited your communication because he did not want to do that. However, Ainz-sama felt you were too concerned about him. Thus, his independent action was meant to tell you, 'don't worry about me', I believe.”

“This truly is…”

“Demiurge. We must work to repay Ainz-sama's kindness.”

Demiurge was excited.

“Indeed. Ainz-sama has gone in person, so there must be many schemes in store. He will surely be busy once he returns from the Dwarven Kingdom.”

Demiurge grinned.

“Indeed, Albedo. Indeed.”

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Chapter end