Philian Apolesai

Prelude

The soft rustling of fabric filled the dimly lit room as maids folded fresh linens. Ninth's eyes were bright with excitement as she finished her story.

"I wish you had been there to see it! I was right there, front and center when Lady Vesi and Lord Ainz reunited." She let out a small sigh, hugging the still warm towel to her chest. "It truly was magical.."

A hush settled over the room, each maid sharing a quiet smile as their hands returning to the linens with renewed energy. The story was almost too grand to be true, yet here it was, rippling through their ranks as a secret they were lucky to share.

"Ahh, I'm so jealous!" whispered one of the maids, clutching a stack of folded sheets a little tighter.

Fifth shook her head, eyes wide with wonder. "I can't believe Lady Vesi has actually returned."

[Philian Apolesai]

"LADY VESI HAS RETURNED?!"

The scream echoed through Shalltear's chambers as she jumped from her plush chair, teacup falling from her hands to stain the delicate pink upholstery with blood. Her dainty hand still on her temple, trying to steady herself from the shock. For a moment, she was completely stunned, absorbing the news from the voice in her head—after the realization hit her, anger flashed in her crimson eyes.

"That smug, conniving bastard!" She stamped her foot like a petulant child, folding her arms with an indignant huff. "I bet that's what Demiurge was trying to hide from me! Why would he even bother with something like that?" she muttered, a sharp tch escaping her lips. "That selfish ass is trying to take all the credit..." Her jaw clenched into a pout and her brow furrowed. He'd gone right over her head, over everyone, just to put himself first! "Well, I can be impressive too!"

Without another thought, she threw open her wardrobe, yanking out her favorite gown. Muttering to herself as she struggled to change, the fabric nearly tearing in her hands as she pulled it on. "Oh, Lady Vesi will see how much I've grown and how loyal I am," she said, puffing up with pride. "Demiurge will be forgotten by the time I'm finished."

After straightening her collar, Shalltear admired her reflection for a moment before summoning a shimmering [Gate]. With one final glance, she stepped through, already planning a grand show for her lady's return.

[Philian Apolesai]

Aura stretched across a low hanging branch, lazily letting her feet dangle as Mare slowly nibbled his way through lunch. He always ate slowly, though usually it was because his nose was buried in some book. Now he was far too busy still fretting over the news.

"Sis..." He finally called out, looking up at his seemingly unbothered sister. "What if she doesn't even remember us?" He twisted his hands together, mind racing through memories—Lady Vesi laughing at his cuteness, praising his strength to Lady Bukubukuchagama. Did those moments mean as much to her as they did to him? He fidgeted, glancing at the ground. "It's just... it's been so long."

"Don't be silly! Our Lady wouldn't have worked so hard to come home if she didn't remember us. Besides, Pestonya already said that Lady Vesi is excited to see us! You worry too much."