Boardroom
The doors opened.
Everyone stood up and bowed—including Ainz's father and even the President of the country.
King Arsh had arrived.
Arsh entered the meeting hall and took a seat at the head of the table. Ainz stood at the back, unsure of his place until Arsh gestured.
"Take a seat, Ainz," Arsh said calmly.
He scanned the room filled with city officials and began, "Today's agenda—demon attacks in Sitler. Who wants to speak first?"
The Defense Minister stood up, face solemn. "It's a serious threat, Your Majesty. Over the last month, we've lost seven men, eleven women, and five children. We've tightened security and are trying our best to protect the citizens."
"Anything else?" Arsh asked.
The room was silent.
Arsh leaned forward, his voice turning cold. "Your so-called security is nothing more than a toy for the demons to play with. When they get bored, they'll crush it like paper. You're all well aware—a standard soldier can only handle demons below Rank 7. A full platoon isn't enough against a Rank 3.
"In just one day of investigation, I've already slain eleven Rank 4 demons. And yet, I received no reports. No warnings. Care to explain why?"
The room tensed. The President stood, nervous but determined to speak.
"Sir, the attacks began twenty days ago. Initially, they were minor. We believed we could handle them internally. But over the last ten days, the attacks intensified. Many lives were lost. We began searching for their source... but we found nothing. I didn't want to appear incompetent by asking for help without trying first. I was about to send a letter—then I received news of your undercover arrival. So I held back."
Arsh's eyes narrowed. "So people died because you were afraid to make a bad impression?"
No one responded.
Arsh stood, his voice sharp. "I'm here now, and things will change. Agriculture Minister—export half the stored food to our neighboring city. Architect Minister—halt all new construction. Defense Minister—these three are my agents."
He handed over photographs. "Distribute these to every officer. Their orders are to be obeyed without question."
Everyone nodded silently.
"I suspect a Rank 2 demon might be behind this," Arsh added grimly.
The President looked startled. "But sir... you've defeated a Rank 2 before. Isn't that good news?"
Arsh's face turned serious. "When I fought the Lust Commander, it cost us 20 lives and destroyed nearly 2 kilometers of land. And Lust was one of the weaker ones. If there's a commander here, it can rally the demons like a trained army. So far, their coordination is weak. But if that changes… we're in real danger."
"Any more questions?" Arsh asked.
Everyone shook their heads.
"Good. Implement these orders immediately. Meeting adjourned."
Outside the room, Ainz let out a sigh. "That was intense. Your stare alone had me sweating."
"You did well," Arsh replied. "Let's head back. I'm starving."
They returned to their quarters. After freshening up, Arsh started cooking. Just then, his communication orb buzzed—Rose was calling.
He answered. "Hey, sis."
"Just checking in," Rose smiled. "And where's that new disciple I read about? What was her name again? Luna?"
"I told you not to read my diary," Arsh said, half-smiling.
"I'm your guardian. It's my job," she teased. "Besides, the Finance Minister is nagging me about a bridge budget."
"Then maybe focus on that instead of stalking my diary," Arsh said, rolling his eyes.
"Oh please. You're my priority, bridge or no bridge. And for the record, I'm going to that site myself. And I'm firing that Finance Minister."
At that moment, Ainz stepped out from the shower, now changed. Arsh waved him over.
"Hey Ainz, my sister wants to meet you."
Ainz lit up. "Wait—you're the Rose Queen?! It's an honor to meet you! You're even more beautiful than I imagined!"
Rose chuckled. "Nice to meet you too, Ainz."
"All right, enough talk," Arsh cut in. "Help me with the plates."
"Are you cooking without me? That's unfair," Rose pouted.
"Goodbye, Sis." Arsh hung up the call with a smile.
They began eating.
"You're an amazing cook," Ainz said, savoring each bite.
"Chew properly and mind your manners," Arsh replied.
Just then, the doorbell rang.
"OSAI, who is it?" Arsh asked.