Philian Apolesai

Treasure Pt. 3

Vesi quickly learned how to use her ring and the two promptly teleported to the Treasury. The massive chandelier swirling above bathed them and all the surrounding valuables in a bright golden light. They made their way to the center of the large room to the small waiting area, a dragon's skull rested on a table with a massive pile of gold and jewels spilling from its mouth. After taking in all the opulence surrounding them, Vesi made her way over to it. Slowly, she reached a hand through its maw, pulling a shimmering sapphire out of the pile. Vesi turned it over in her fingers. The golden light from above ignited the gem's depths, casting flickering blue reflections on her palm. She looked to be in awe of all that surrounded them. After so many years of just running in to grab whatever he needed, Ainz had forgotten how stunning it all was. A precious memory was displayed on every shelf and down the hall he could se the massive mountains of gold just beyond. Watching Vesi fawn over the treasures made him feel a sense of nostalgia himself.

"GOOD EVENING MY SUPREME ONES! Welcome to the domain I guard!"

Of course.

His shouting made Vesi jump, dropping the jewel back onto the table when she did. Its clatter startling her further as she quickly whipped around towards the source of the sound. She didn't have to look for long as Pandora bounded over to them, heavy boots slamming against the tile floor to announce himself. Once he deemed himself close enough (most would argue too close), he came to an abrupt halt. Stiffly saluting them both.

Before Ainz could acknowledge him, the doppelgänger jumped back into action. Not even properly greeting his creator, Pandora walked right past him. Rude. Ainz stifled a sigh and wondered, not for the first time, why he'd ever granted Pandora the privilege to be so casual. Perhaps excitement was a factor too. Everyone in the tomb is desperate to see her. Giving him just a moment to take it all in was the least he could do. Ainz watched from the side as Pandora plucked the same sapphire from the table and bowed deeply before her, his free hand sweeping wide in an exaggerated flourish. Extending the gem towards Vesi as though presenting her with a royal crown.

"Please, don't be shy, my lady! All the treasures are yours for the taking."

Vesi blinked, unsure whether to laugh or retreat, but the absurd sincerity in his gesture disarmed her. Tentatively, she accepted the gem. "Thank you?"

"Ach, but that is just the beginning!" Pandora straightened and stepped back. Hands grasping at the air, unable to contain his excitement as he ran about the room. Showing off all they'd acquired in the New World, and things Vesi had apparently given him years ago that were still in pristine condition. Ainz knew she hardly remembered the stories Pandora spoke of, but Vesi was already handling this 'extra-ness' well. Nodding along with all he said and smiling every time he looked to her. She'd walked into the role so naturally, and if she could deal with Pandora, most everyone else wouldn't be a problem.

Suddenly, he darted to a display case. Eagerly retrieving something he was sure would impress her. His hand reemerging with a glimmering strand of pearls. Before Vesi could object, Pandora gently lifted an intricate piece of jewelry, its nacre stones each shimmering with enchantments. He strode back to her with the confidence of a jeweler presenting his masterpiece.

"This—this belonged to none other than your collection, milady. A priceless treasure, just as you are! Allow me!"