Thoughts
"Speaking"
{Message spell}
The Final Hours
Dive Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games, or DMMO-RPGs for short, represent a type of gaming experience where players can immerse themselves in imaginary worlds as if they truly existed within them. Among these virtual realms, Yggdrasil—released in 2126—stood as a towering achievement. With its expansive world map and unusually high degree of player freedom, it distinguished itself from other DMMO-RPGs of its era, becoming wildly popular throughout Japan. Now, after twelve years of operation, the world of Yggdrasil was finally coming to an end.
Third Person POV
A band of adventurers made their way through the treacherous swamps surrounding Nazarick, their boots squelching in the murky water. They came to a halt before the Great Tomb's imposing entrance, and as they did, an army of undead burst forth from the sodden ground around them.
The adventurers fought valiantly through the skeletal horde, their blades, axes, and spells cutting down foes with practiced efficiency. During a brief respite in the battle, they looked up toward the tomb's towering archways. There, silhouetted against the dark sky, stood the entire guild membership alongside their leader. As the adventurers realized they had stumbled into a raid zone, enormous bat-like wings seemed to encompass their vision while lightning crackled ominously in the background.
[Timeskip]
Those same adventurers now lay scattered across the ground, either depleted of life points or knocked unconscious. The camera panned upward to reveal Momonga, leader of Ainz Ooal Gown, standing atop his tomb as he chuckled at their pathetic attempt to breach his domain.
[Timeskip - Third Person POV]
"Yeah, it has... in fact, it was a blast."
Momonga sat in the meeting room on Nazarick's twelfth floor, accompanied by a slime creature named HeroHero.
HeroHero: "Hey there! Been a while, hasn't it, Momonga?"
Momonga: "Sure has! To be honest, HeroHero, I didn't think you'd come. You've been gone for a couple of years."
HeroHero: "No way! It's really been that long? Man... I guess I've been working so much that my concept of time is out of whack."
Just as HeroHero finished speaking, the meeting room door opened to reveal a certain dhampir in his elegant human form.
Alucard's POV
I entered the meeting room and spotted my closest companion since arriving in this world—Satoru Suzuki, or as I was supposed to call him within the guild, Momonga—as well as my old comrade HeroHero.
"Momonga. Hero. It is good to see you both. I confess I did not expect anyone else to be present."
Momonga: "Obviously I was. I'm always on when I'm not at work."
HeroHero: "Honestly, I didn't either..."
"I overheard before entering that your perception of time has become... distorted." I spoke with measured concern "Junichiro... you are not obtaining adequate rest, are you?" My golden eyes fixed upon him with quiet intensity
I took my seat to Momonga's right and observed HeroHero display the 😓 emoji.
HeroHero: "Yeah, I am... Sorry, Alucard. I know you care about us and..." He bowed ninety degrees "I'm sorry..."
"There is nothing to forgive when no transgression has occurred. Simply... tend to yourself with greater care."
Momonga: "That sucks... it can't be healthy for you."
HeroHero: "Tell me about it... I feel like my avatar looks..."
I allowed a slight, sardonic smile to cross my features. "What? Diminutive and unremarkable?"
Momonga burst out laughing with the 🤣 emoji while HeroHero stood as tall as possible for a slime, displaying 😤.
HeroHero:Sarcastically "You bastard!" Laughing because of Momonga "Oh, I am so glad the so-called 'Shadow of Nazarick' has graced us with his presence... Hehehe."
I chuckled softly at his response as he continued.
HeroHero: "Well, I didn't come here to complain."
I noticed Momonga raise his right hand in response.
Momonga: "Please, don't worry about it. ☺️"
HeroHero: "Well, I better go soon. I'm beyond exhausted..."
Momonga: "Right... Rest up and feel better."
HeroHero: "Wish I could stay longer... But I gotta say, I'm kinda shocked to see the Tomb of Nazarick still standing." He looked around "Being guild leader suited you. You've done a great job maintaining the place. And Alucard, having you in the guild brought us all together. Your wisdom and guidance kept us united when so many others departed."
Momonga: "Well, we created this place together. I couldn't just let it go to dust."
"Indeed... it was... enlightening to share in your camaraderie. I shall miss these moments of... levity."
At this point, I allowed my attention to drift inward, lost in contemplation.
(Twelve years have passed... since I found myself in this realm with memories of my former existence. I can only hope to provide Momonga with what comfort I may, knowing what fate awaits our guild... Perhaps it is time to embrace this new chapter of our eternal journey.)
SLAM!
I looked over to see Momonga's hand clenched in a fist. Observing his posture, I understood the turmoil within his mind. After some time, he looked at me, stood up, and walked to the Staff of Ainz Ooal Gown. He stared at it for a long moment before turning to me.
Momonga: "Is it alright if I take the staff? And will you join me in the throne room?"
Instead of answering immediately, I rose gracefully and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.
"The staff belongs to you by right. And as for your request..." I offered a rare, genuine smile "I have walked alongside you through countless trials, Momonga. This final hour shall be no different."
Momonga nodded gratefully before taking the staff and heading toward the door as I followed with measured steps.
As we descended the stairs, I noticed the Pleiades along with Sebas standing in formation. I glanced at Momonga and observed him regarding Sebas thoughtfully.
"What course of action do you intend, Momonga?"
He turned to meet my gaze.
Momonga: "Shall we have them accompany us? Allow them to move about one final time?"
I inclined my head approvingly. "A fitting tribute to their service."
I heard Momonga instruct "Follow me" as we began our procession to the throne room. After a brief journey, we arrived at the massive doors—the left side depicting a demon, the right an angel. We entered to find the throne surrounded by all the guild members' flags, with my own crest—a stylized bat with outstretched wings—prominently displayed behind the throne.
As we reached the throne, I addressed the Pleiades with quiet authority.
"Attend your sovereign."
They bowed and moved to the throne's right as I heard Momonga speak Albedo's name behind me. I turned to observe him reviewing the NPC's information, and we both noticed the final line: 'On the outside, she's a beauty, but inside she's a bitch.'
Momonga: "No way she's a bitch?"
"Tabula's... particular sense of humor, I'm afraid."
Momonga: "Hey Alucard, you wouldn't mind if I alter these settings, would you?"
I regarded him with knowing eyes, suspecting his intentions.
"By all means. I trust your judgment in such matters."
I moved to the left side of his throne with fluid grace. When he finished, he looked at me and nodded. I turned to address Albedo and the Pleiades.
"Kneel before your lord."
As they all genuflected, I observed the banners adorning the pillars. Momonga and I silently acknowledged each one, and I heard him speak.
Momonga: "It's been fun, Alucard."
I turned to him with a melancholy smile.
"Indeed... it has been... illuminating."
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(And so... it begins.)
I noted our continued presence as Momonga spoke with evident confusion.
Momonga: "Alucard, I can't use my console or call a GM. Is it the same with you?"
I regarded Momonga with calm composure and nodded slowly, then turned my attention to Albedo as she looked toward him. I placed a gloved hand beneath my chin in contemplation.
(This unfolds precisely as my memories suggested. Now... let us see how this tale shall differ.)
Albedo: "Is something amiss, Lord Momonga and Alucard?"
I watched Momonga regard her as she spoke with genuine concern.
Albedo: "Lord Momonga, are you well? You appear troubled."
She approached Momonga with elegant steps.
Albedo: "If there is difficulty, please allow me to assist."
She positioned her hands to accentuate her figure, causing Momonga to emanate a green aura.
(Even in this form, Satoru remains... predictably human in his responses.)
Momonga: "The GM call function isn't working."
Albedo stepped back with surprise, then bowed gracefully.
Albedo: "Forgive me, but I cannot provide an answer... This GM call magic you speak of transcends my understanding."
Albedo's voice carried worry and apprehension.
Albedo: "I recognize that my inability to aid you is unforgivable... Though I am unworthy, I implore your mercy, my lord!"
At this moment, I chose to assert my presence.
"Sebas."
(How curious... my voice carries such resonance in this form. The authority in my tone is... quite satisfying.)
Sebas: "My lord?"
"Venture beyond the Great Tomb and survey Nazarick's perimeter."
Sebas: "As you command, my lord. I shall return presently."
After Momonga composed himself, he spoke.
Momonga: "Pleiades, position yourselves on the ninth floor. Deal with any who dare trespass."
I continued seamlessly:
"Additionally, summon all floor guardians—save those of the fourth and eighth floors—to convene at the sixth-floor combat arena."
Yuri Alpha: "Your will shall be done, my lords."
As they departed, I noticed Albedo's gaze lingering upon me rather than Momonga.
Albedo: "Lord Alucard... is there any command you would have me fulfill?"
I glanced meaningfully at Momonga, my golden eyes narrowing slightly as I observed him avert his gaze and whistle innocently. I shook my head with mild exasperation.
"Indeed... approach me, if you would."
Albedo smiled radiantly and glided toward me with obvious delight.
Albedo: "Gladly!" *She laughed melodiously as she stood before me*
As she drew near, I closed my eyes and inhaled subtly, as if appreciating a fine vintage. Opening my eyes, I fixed her with an intense stare.
"Albedo... might I have the privilege of contact?"
Albedo: "Yes, my lord!"
As I took her hand with practiced elegance, she trembled at my touch, her expression showing both pleasure and surprise at my forward approach.
(Fascinating... her pulse quickens beyond even my enhanced senses. Most intriguing...)
I drew a measured breath
(Now for the crucial inquiry.)
"Albedo... would you permit me the honor of... exploring your exquisite form more thoroughly?"
Albedo blushed deeply, her smile radiant as she replied breathlessly.
Albedo: "I would be honored by your touch, my lord. Please... do as you desire."
With vampiric grace, I moved behind her, my hands finding her waist as I leaned close to her neck. As my lips met her pale skin, I heard her soft intake of breath.
Albedo:Soft gasp
(Such a lovely sound...)
As I continued my ministrations, moving to the sensitive area of her throat, I felt her pulse racing beneath my lips. Her response was more passionate than anticipated.
Albedo: "Yes... mark me as yours, Lord Alucard~ ❤️"
I drew back, observing the mark I had left upon her neck, and truly appreciated her ethereal beauty.
(Remarkable... she possesses a beauty that rivals even the most exquisite beings I encountered in my previous existence. Tabula certainly had... refined tastes.)
Albedo: "Is this...? Will you claim me here? Before Lord Momonga himself?"
I glanced toward Momonga with an amused expression, but he cleared his throat diplomatically.
Momonga: "Perhaps such... intimate matters should wait, Albedo. For now, please join the others at the sixth floor arena."
Albedo: "Of course, Lord Momonga! Forgive my... enthusiasm. I shall depart immediately!"
As she gracefully exited the throne room, I turned to Momonga with a knowing look.
"Let me venture a guess—you modified her settings to include 'deeply enamored with Alucard'?"
He chuckled with embarrassment.
Momonga: "Yes, I did... Sorry, I should have consulted you first. But are we just going to ignore what just happened?"
I regarded him with calm composure, though my eyes held a hint of reproach.
"Indeed we shall. Had you trusted me with this information beforehand, I would have expressed gratitude for your... thoughtful consideration of my companionship. However, such matters must wait. Shall we proceed to the sixth floor?"
He nodded contritely and stood, examining his Ring of Ainz Ooal Gown before meeting my gaze.
Momonga: "Shall we test the rings' functionality, old friend?"
I smiled with genuine warmth.
(In this new existence, I shall embrace what I once could not.)
I bowed with aristocratic grace, my coat flowing dramatically behind me.
"It would be my honor to accompany you... my lord."
Momonga chuckled appreciatively.
Momonga: "You're adapting to our new reality remarkably well. You always were adaptable."
Rising from my bow, I shared his amusement as we activated the rings. We materialized in the hallway before the Colosseum, and Momonga sighed with relief.
Momonga: "Well, at least the rings function properly."
I responded with characteristic brevity: "Hmm."
We began walking as Momonga mused aloud.
Momonga: "It appears Albedo and the others remain loyal, precisely as programmed. What of the other NPCs?"
"Their loyalty should remain unchanged as well."
As we entered the arena, we surveyed our surroundings.
"It has been... some time since I last visited this place."
Momonga: "The twin dark elves created by Bukubukuchagama should be this floor's guardians."
I replied while scanning the area.
"Indeed... yet where might they be? Tardiness is... unlike them."
As I finished speaking, I heard a tomboyish grunt followed by cheerful laughter and a resounding crash.
We observed an elf maiden in masculine attire—Aura—making a victory sign while beaming proudly.
Aura: "Nailed it!"
I raised an eyebrow with subtle amusement at her exuberance.
Momonga: "Aura."
Upon hearing her name, she traversed the amphitheater's breadth in mere moments, stopping gracefully to avoid disturbing us with dust. She bowed respectfully.
Aura: "We are honored by your presence, Lord Momonga and Lord Alucard! Welcome to the sixth floor amphitheater!"
Momonga: "We shall not intrude for long."
She looked up at us with radiant enthusiasm.
Aura: "Intrude? Impossible! You are the sovereigns of the Great Tomb of Nazarick! Your authority here is absolute. No guardian would ever consider you intruders—especially not Mare and myself!"
I spoke while sensing the presence above us.
"Speaking of your brother..."
Aura turned frantically, gesturing dramatically as I observed with quiet amusement.
Aura: "Mare! You're being disrespectful to Lord Alucard and Lord Momonga! Stop cowering and descend immediately!"
Her younger brother tentatively appeared.
Mare: "But sister... I'm frightened..."
Before Aura could respond, I addressed him with gentle authority.
"Mare. You need not fear. I give you my word that no harm shall befall you. If it would comfort you, I could assist your descent."
Mare: "O-oh... if you're certain..."
Aura: "Honestly..."
Third Person POV
Mare leaped from his vantage point overlooking the amphitheater. As he fell, Alucard moved with supernatural speed, creating a controlled burst of mist and shadows. When the obscuring cloud cleared, Mare found himself caught safely in Alucard's arms, held with protective care.
Alucard: "There. Was that truly so daunting?"
Setting Mare down gently, Alucard placed a reassuring hand on the young elf's shoulder.
Alucard: "Mare, fear is natural, but it need not control you. We may appear intimidating but know that I consider you... family."
Mare's eyes filled with grateful tears as he whispered repeated thanks. When they reached Momonga, Alucard stood beside him while Mare joined Aura, still wiping his eyes.
Alucard's POV
Mare: "F-forgive me for troubling you, Lord Alucard, and for delaying you, Lord Momonga."
I knelt at his eye level, speaking with measured kindness.
"Forgiveness implies wrongdoing..." I paused deliberately "And you have committed none."
Momonga: "No trouble at all. I was hoping you two might assist me with something."
At this point, I observed silently as the twins prepared to demonstrate their abilities against a fire elemental, knowing well what would transpire.
(If I plan to succeed, I must establish influence in E-Rantel and secure their cooperation. Lives lost in our conquests must be recoverable... and Ninya... I swear upon my father's memory that you shall be reunited with your sister.)
My contemplation was interrupted by searing heat as the dark elf twins engaged the primal fire elemental. Suddenly, I heard the distinctive sound of Momonga's {Message} spell.
{Something troubles you, Satoru?}
Momonga: {No... merely testing the Message function, which appears operational. Good—I may require your counsel.}
{Wise. You should contact Sebas—he has likely completed his reconnaissance.}
Momonga: {Ah! I had forgotten entirely. Thank you for the reminder.}
I sighed inwardly.
(The guardians may find his leadership... challenging. Though I suppose their devotion will compensate. And it shall provide... entertainment.)
As my thoughts concluded, I heard approaching footsteps. Mare and Aura had defeated the fire elemental and were returning victorious.
Momonga: "Excellent! Most impressive indeed."
Aura: "That was invigorating! I haven't had much exercise in ages."
I smiled with genuine approval, placing my hands gently on both their heads.
"You have both performed admirably. I am... proud of your skill."
They beamed with joy at the praise, though their happiness was interrupted when Momonga spoke again.
Momonga: "You must be parched after such exertion."
He produced a pitcher of water and two glasses from his inventory, pouring for each of them. They appeared stunned by this gesture, exchanging glances before drinking gratefully. When they finished, I collected the glasses into my own inventory as Aura spoke.
Aura: "I must admit, Lord Momonga, I expected you and Lord Alucard to be more... intimidating..."
I responded with measured warmth.
"Intimidation serves its purpose, but it is not my default nature. I prefer to inspire loyalty through... understanding."
Momonga: "Oh, would you prefer if I were more frightening?"
Both shook their heads vigorously.
Aura: "Not at all! I prefer you both exactly as you are!"
As she declared this, I sensed a gate opening, revealing Shalltear's arrival.
Shalltear: "My, my~ it seems I am the first to arrive."
(And so it begins in earnest... The time has come for this world to know the power of the Son of Dracula. Let the night eternal commence.)
As everything faded to black...