20 The Daily Lives of Ainz Ooal Gown: Touch Me and Ulbert Alain Odle - The Dreamer and the Cynic

Ulbert's memory of the event remained vivid, almost as if it had occurred only yesterday. Within their guild base, which was still undergoing renovations, Shirou had managed to corner him and initiate a conversation. The exact circumstances and nature of the conversation that led up to the moment were hazy but ultimately important. What was important was everything that came after. He could distinctly recall the surge of emotion he experienced upon hearing the faker respond with the question he gave.

"Why haven't you done it?" The question repeated itself in Ulbert's head. To the World Disaster, it was akin to asking 'Why are you still alive?'

Ulbert first remembered feeling shocked at his words, only for it to transform into blinding anger at Shirou.

"You bastard! If you've got something to say, say it to my face!" Ulbert shouted, getting right in Shirou's face, who remained stoically silent.

Because YGGDRASIL lacks any user-supported facial animation, the goat Heteromorph could only guess at the expression his guildmate was making as he asked the question.

"You'd like that, wouldn't you?!" Ulbert spat out venomously.

"I didn't say that." Shirou responded calmly. "All I did was ask you a simple question. Why didn't you do it?"

Hearing him repeat the question in that damn all-too-calm voice, Ulbert felt his rage flare up. Were they not in their guild base, the World Disaster would have attacked Shirou right then and there. Consequences be damned. At first, he thought the heterochromatic Player was goading him on. His mind conjured up an image of Shirou asking why Ulbert hadn't killed himself already with a condescending sneer. He was looking down on him, believing him weak-willed and afraid.

However, the rational side of his mind put an end to such biased thoughts. Loathed as he was to admit it, the two have known one another for a very long time — since their days in Nine's Own Goal. He was more familiar with Shirou than he cared to admit, and because of that, Ulbert knew Shirou wasn't that kind of person.

A fact which only made his words all the more jarring. The seriousness of how he asked the question wasn't spoken condescendingly or invasively, but rather calmly and firmly. Just a question, nothing more and nothing less.

Still, that didn't mean he had to stand there and listen to him.

"Forget this!" He gave a forceful shove, knocking Shirou back and away.

"I don't have to say anything, least of all to you!" Said Ulbert as he stomped away. He took no more than a couple of steps before Shirou spoke up.

"There's no shame in admitting you're afraid."

Hearing this, Ulbert instantly whirled around, his simmering rage swirling into a raging inferno at the implications.

"I'm afraid of nothing!" He screamed back, his pride speaking more than anything else.

"We both know that's not true. Death has always been an inevitability, something everyone fears most of all in this world." Shirou calmly replied.

Amidst the haze of anger, a creeping feeling began to pool within the World Disaster. There was something about the entire situation that felt… off. However, Ulbert brushed it aside, choosing instead to focus on glaring intently at the Humanoid Player. While the Heteromorph was yelling, his voice full of fury and emotion, Shirou remained composed and spoke casually, as if they were having a mild-mannered chat. Ulbert opened his mouth to respond, only to have the silver-haired Player continue.

"Because I couldn't go through with it either."

Ulbert went rigid as his brain processed Shirou's statement. It took a second before the realization hit him, as the man in front of him admitted having once thought of taking his own life as well. Behind the digital avatar, his eyes widened, and his mouth was left agape.

'Just like me...' Some unknowing part of Ulbert whispered in the back of his head.

Internally, he grimaced, unsure exactly where to go from here. Especially after his guildmate just dropped such a bombshell so casually.

"What's your point?" Ulbert spat out, trying to be indifferent.

Shirou looked at him but said nothing immediately. After a brief period of silence, he began anew.

"People often believe that suicide is the coward's way out. That even the mere thought of taking your own life is wrong and heinous. In many ways, that line of thinking is indeed correct. However, people often forget that death is a form of freedom on its own. The important factor in all of this is context. If a man with a loving wife and a child of his own began to think such thoughts, then in this scenario, it would be wrong. He would leave behind a grieving wife if he passed away. His offspring would be fatherless as they grew up. The family would suffer emotionally, physically, and financially. On the basis of everything he would leave behind, the man's passing would be regarded as a tragedy."

Ulbert only grew impatient and irritated as he listened to Shirou's words. There was no reason to stay and listen to Shirou, and he should've simply left. And yet, he remained. A decision that would leave his mark for the future.

"But what if we were to talk about someone who has nothing to lose? Someone truly alone in this world, insignificant amidst a sea of equally mundane people. No one would miss him, no one would care for him if he disappeared, and no one would mourn him. Be it friends, family, or lovers, none of them would care for him. And just as no one in the world cares for him, he too cares not about the world.

So, would death not be acceptable for him? Nothing is lost from his departure, just as nothing is gained from it either. Especially when he himself has no reason to continue living. He has nothing to attach him to the world, no physical or emotional connection, no goal to drive or push him forward.

Every day becomes a constant reminder of what he has lost and what he can never hope to gain. Life itself becomes his own personal hell. At this point, can one truly call it living when the act itself has no other purpose than to continue onto the next day, automatic and pointless?

At some point in time, even the act of living becomes too bothersome. Before long, we start to think, why should we even bother anymore? There's nothing left, so wouldn't it be better if it all just ended? To continue living is to continue to suffer. So, wouldn't it make sense to put it behind you once and for all? To finally be free of it all..."

Ulbert remained motionless, frozen in place like a lifeless statue, as a result of the overwhelming shock and fear that had taken hold of him. Shirou's words were delivered with a cold detachment and composed demeanor, as if he were merely an impartial spectator rather than an active participant in the situation. This caused a chill to run down Ulbert's spine, leaving him feeling uneasy and disturbed.

Ulbert's breathing became more rapid, almost to the point of hyperventilation, as Shirou continued with his speech.

Ulbert would never admit it, but he was extremely uncomfortable, even afraid, at that moment. It wasn't just because of his words and their context, but also because of how they related to the Heteromorphic Player. He had no idea if Shirou was knowingly or unknowingly speaking about himself, to Ulbert, or in general. However, it didn't matter, as each of his statements and points rang clearly in Ulbert's ear.

It was almost as if Shirou was there, had seen his past, and knew his exact thoughts. That was what frightened him. Shirou spoke with such assured confidence that it felt as if he were reading Ulbert like an open book.

Everything Shirou had stated, at one point in time, Ulbert once felt or thought exactly as he described. Before YGGDRASIL, Ulbert had no one. His parents had died when he was young, and he had no friends growing up, either in real life or online. His co-workers showed him no care or thought and vice versa. Every day was a struggle just to make it through. Ulbert saw his life as pointless, and even the effort to continue living day by day felt tiresome and repetitive.

No one cared about him, and so he cared for no one but himself. As Shirou had described, it all became a bother. What was the point of continuing to live when there was nothing in life to look forward to? His job was dreadful and would most likely be the cause of his death, just like his parents, as he feared. The people he saw every day, whether they were his co-workers or random people he crossed paths with, only cared about themselves. He had no real goals or aspirations because he knew it was impossible for him to claw his way out of his destitute situation. He was simply numb to it all.

One day, as Ulbert lay in bed, he came to the conclusion that the world he lived in was terrible and would never change. He believed that living on was just torment, so he wondered why he should bother continuing.

"And yet, when we try to go through with it, we cannot. Doubt and fear grip us when, before, we thought that it was what we truly wanted. In the end, we find ourselves unable to go through with it. Because we are afraid." Shirou continued.

Ulbert couldn't control the shudder he experienced. Once again, Shirou hit very close to home for the demon's liking.

"In the end, no matter how dark or bleak life may seem, and no matter how easy the decision may appear to be, no one is truly ready to die. This is not simply because we are afraid or because we are cowards, but because we are still seeking a purpose, a reason to continue living..."

Shirou turned to look at Ulbert, right in his eyes. Ulbert involuntarily took a step backward as his piercing heterochromatic eyes settled on the World Disaster.

"After all, we were born into this world for a reason."

Ending on that, the faker said nothing more, content to stand there and wait until Ulbert was ready.

"S-shut… S-shut... up!" Ulbert started, his voice shaky and trembling with anger. Then he unleashed all his repressed anger.

"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! SHUT THE HELL UP!" Ulbert exploded with all his rage. "You don't know jackshit about me! Not a single fucking thing, you hear me! You pretentious wannabe hero sack of shit! You don't know what I've been through or what I've seen and done! Don't talk to me as if we're friends or anything! Do you think you know me? Because you don't! You couldn't possibly know what it was like for me! Don't try and pretend like you know what's good for me! So, stop it! Stop it! Stop it! STOP IT! STOP IT RIGHT FUCKING NOW!"

He let out all his rage and vitriol. At the end of it, he was left gasping for air and softly whimpering, as if he were about to break down any second.

"You are right. Ulbert-san, I don't know what you went through. All I can do is wonder what happened to you in the past that made you who you are today." Shirou admitted. "However, I do know this. What I've seen and experienced makes what you've been through look like child's play."

A bold statement, if there ever was one. Ulbert couldn't even argue back, as he was still catching his breath, allowing Shirou to continue unimpeded.

"As blunt as this is, your case is nothing special, Ulbert-san. What happened to you is happening to hundreds upon hundreds of thousands of people around Japan. Do you think you're the only one who's lost people they've cared about? Do you think you're the only one who suffered at the hands of the cruel world around them?

No, you're not. You're but one of many.

And not just within Japan but also the rest of the world. Our world has always been mired by tragedy since the beginning of human civilizations. You are not the first unfortunate case of misfortune plaguing their life, and you won't be the last. Seeing so many play out in practically the same manner, it all just gets muddled together. People die every single day, be they mothers, fathers, or even children. A case of a child losing his parents is a tragedy. Millions of the same cases happening all across the world? Well, then it becomes a statistic."

It was here that Ulbert realized what was wrong. Why Shirou, of all people, unnerved him so much at the moment. It was because his words and demeanor were contradictory to everything he knew about the faker. The two may not be exactly friends, but even the Archdemon knew for certain what kind of person he was. Shirou was kind, brave, sincere, inspirational, helpful, and many others. Many within the guild, particularly his closest friends, considered him the heart of the group. He was like a brilliant, illuminating light that uplifted everyone around him with his presence.

The way he spoke and held himself went against Ulbert's preconceived notion of the optimistic idiot he thought he knew Shirou to be. The borderline nihilistic attitude that Shirou exhibited was completely at odds with the cheerful and optimistic persona that he held. It was almost like Ulbert was talking to himself in some regards, leaving the World Disaster to wonder which version was the true one, the optimist or the realist.

This was another side to him that not many people knew of, and fewer Shirou himself willingly showed to others.

"Are you saying what happened to me doesn't matter?!" Ulbert growled out. The appeal of firing his most powerful spells straight at the virtual magus grew by the second.

Shirou shook his head.

"No. What happened to you was indeed a tragedy, Ulbert-san. I'm merely pointing out that there are others just like yours that happen all the time. What I am saying is, just how long are you going to play a victim? There are even those who have suffered far worse than you, Ulbert-san. In fact, I know that's true because I've seen them firsthand.

Tell me, have you ever fought individuals who used the young as food to survive? Men willing to release some of the worst WMDs in the history of all mankind? Individuals whose own selfishness borders on megalomania. Or what about something more personal? A child taken away from their parents and taught to hate and kill? A child who was tortured and raped by her "family" for a decade for their own sick amusement? Those no older than adults being forced to kill one another for reasons even they cannot fully comprehend. Well…?"

Shirou listed example after example, taking a step forward with each one, until the two of them were practically face-to-face. Ulbert couldn't help but take a step back and turn his head, trying to avoid Shirou's piercing gaze.

"W-well, that is the pain of other individuals. It's just like you said, bad things happen to people all the time and everywhere. What do you know of suffering?!" Ulbert stuttered out, mustering his bravado and jabbing a talon at him.

"What do I know of suffering? A lot, or have you forgotten what I once told you all, all those years ago?" Shirou returned immediately.

Ulbert's eyes widened. He would freely admit that he had forgotten about Shirou's history and the backstory he had shared with them all those years ago after fighting Berserker. The subject was rarely brought up, and the digitalized man hardly ever mentioned it. As a result, the memory of the event faded into obscurity over time. But now, Shirou was more than happy to give him a reminder and more.

"My earliest memory is of a fire, a cursed inferno in which hundreds lost their lives. I was trapped beneath the rubble, surrounded by the ashes and charred remains of mountains of their corpses. My body was empty, mentally and physically scarred. In the hope of survival, I had discarded everything about myself - my memories, feelings, and humanity. In the end, even the hope I sought was lost. It did not end there, just like I told you before. I eventually lost everything I once gained and fought so hard to keep. Those who took me in and became my new family. The few friends that stuck with me for however long I knew them. Even those I grew to love and opened my heart to. They all disappeared in the end. And yet, I continued to move forward. For that was all I could do." Shirou added, revealing yet another piece of his history with Ulbert.

One that painted a vivid imagery for the Heteromorphic Player. Tragedy after tragedy.

"Now, tell me, Ulbert-san, have you seen Hell?" The magus asked.

Ulbert had wanted to answer "yes", but no words came out. There was something about the way Shirou asked the question that made it feel more visceral and personal. In the end, Ulbert said nothing, allowing Shirou to continue.

"I have seen and walked into Hell more times than I can imagine. These were warzones left behind by human struggles, ideological and otherwise. Scores of land were painted crimson with the blood of innocents and villains alike. Piles of corpses were left to fester and rot, serving as a feast for the ever-present that marked my every step. It was a place where humanity was stripped of its core, where the worst of us surfaced, and where death was a constant companion. And yet, I experienced it all willingly. I dove headfirst into the depths of human depravity, memorizing every single act of war, violence, cruelty, apathy, and greed that had ever graced this planet. I saw the horrors of genocide, the atrocities of war, and the suffering of the innocent. I felt the weight of despair, the sting of betrayal, and the emptiness of loss. Even when my body and mind rejected the reality I experienced, I endured. I pushed through the pain, the fear, and the hopelessness, all for the sake of understanding. Do you know why?"

Ulbert held silent.

"Because of hope. A hope, that this would be the last corpse I saw. The hope that this would be the last life I ended. The hope that this would be the last innocent I saw slaughtered. It never came. Even after decades, the bloodshed never ended. In the end, I chased after a fruitless ideal to the grave, and do you know what? I don't regret it. Why? Because it's never wrong to help a person in need.

So, tell me, Ulbert-san... Am I a Monster or a Hero?"

Hearing this question, Ulbert was left in silent contemplation. Shirou's words echoed through his mind, all his secrets and the question he left him. Seconds ticked by as if they were hours, the salaryman's mind trying to figure out his answer.

In the end—

"I-I don't… know…" Ulbert finally said, admitting the painful truth.

—He didn't know.

"The answer is neither." Shirou said, answering his question.

"Because, when you have a noose around your neck and the background is flooded with the misplaced hatred of all you have saved from experiencing the horrors of war, there is neither. Only the tortured and tiring existence of Man."

A numbing silence took over as Ulbert contemplated his words.

"W-why…" Ulbert couldn't keep the tremble from his voice. "Why are you telling me this?"

In the end, he couldn't understand why Shirou, of all people, was confiding in him. Why was someone like him looking out for Ulbert? What was the purpose behind it all?

"Because I once wavered and doubted myself. I am not afraid to admit that I am not infallible in my beliefs and ideals. I will not deny your beliefs, Ulbert-san. People can be some of the most terrifying of monsters, capable of acts that border on inhuman. When I was at my lowest point, I too hoped for an end. I allowed darkness to cloud both my eyes and my heart." Shirou told him.

His words were far from hollow, nor were they meant to be encouraging. In fact, there was a certain similarity between the two of them, perhaps not in their circumstances but in their struggles. Before he accepted Zelretch's deal, he had nothing. Nothing to truly live for. Everyone he once knew and loved was dead. His life's purpose was an endless chase, his body left nothing more than a frail husk, and the world he once knew was gone and replaced with a dying duplicate.

Alaya was the worst of them all. In the end, what he had dreaded most of all had come to pass. Despite everything, he had struck a deal with Alaya in his final moment of weakness. What pained him most was the fact that all the effort Rin had put in to help him had meant nothing. Once he finally died, he would be chained to her, forced into the role of Archer, a Counter Guardian. At the time, he was living in a paradox. He had nothing left to live for and, at times, wished to end it because he was tired. Yet he still clung to life with fervor and determination, refusing to kick the bucket as a way to delay the inevitable and to spite the collective consciousness of mankind, because, just like Ulbert, he too was afraid. Shirou didn't want to give in just yet. He was clinging to life for no other reason than he didn't want it to just end, and yet he had no true reason to continue living.

In the end, he continued living only for the sake of continuing to exist because he was afraid of the consequences. Nothing more and nothing less.

Until Zelretch entered back into his life.

"In the end, I did lose hope. I am far from infallible. I am human, and I do have my low points, just like everyone, just like you." Said Shirou, recalling back to his feelings before he had accepted Zelretch's deal. The numbness and despair of it all. "And through either luck or faith, I managed to find a reason to have hope again. Can you guess what it was?"

Ulbert turned to look at him, and for the first time since their conversation, he felt something emanating from the sword-spamming Player. He didn't know how, but the Heteromorph knew that he was smiling, at him no less.

"You guys. Everyone from Ainz Ooal Gown. Momonga-san, Peroroncino-san, Bukubukuchagama-san, Touch Me-san, Tabula-san, Amanomahitotsu-san, Yamaiko-san, and so many others, including you, Ulbert-san. You became my new hope and reminded me that there's still good in this world. You all became something I lost so long ago and thought I would never experience again. Those I can call my friends."

Ulbert was speechless.

It wouldn't shock anyone to hear that Ulbert did not like Shirou. While he could appreciate Shirou's expertise as a Player, that was where his admiration ended. Similar to his sentiments towards the silver paladin of the guild, Ulbert harbored a dislike for Shirou that mirrored Touch Me's. This was primarily due to the fact that the goat Heteromorph saw him as just another delusional, aspiring hero, no different from the World Champion. In Ulbert's eyes, Shirou was just another fool on a foolish quest, blinded by his idealistic views. It was his lack of awareness and preconceived notions that brought them together in Ulbert's mind.

He would never consider either of them real friends, acquittances at best, but nothing more. Ulbert thought he shared the same sentiment, but it seemed he was wrong.

It was one thing to assume, but it was another to hear it directly from the man himself.

A part of him wanted to deny his words, make a crude retort, or something, but he found himself at a loss for words and strength. There was blind sincerity laced in Shirou's words that even Ulbert couldn't deny.

"You believe that humans have the capacity to be monsters. That is true, but that is far from the whole truth. You forget that the same can be said for the opposite of that. If people have the choice to be monsters, then it only stands to reason that we also have the choice to do good as well. I've done my fair share of horrors, but at the same time, I do not lose sight of why I did them. I believe in the good that I've done and the good that I can do. And if someone like me still has a chance, then you can too, Ulbert-san." Shirou reasoned.

A feeling overcame him. Unable to take it, Ulbert couldn't help but look away. The near-smothering aura he gave off and the sincerity in his voice were foreign feelings. It wasn't necessarily a bad feeling, but just different. He was used to hate, hell, and to a certain degree, he thrived on it. At the same time, Ulbert had also experienced comradery and likes with Momonga, along with some members of Ainz Ooal Gown.

But this was something else, something purer and truer.

"W-why…" Ulbert whispered.

'Why do you care?' was the question that was left unspoken. To him, it made no sense. They were just two people who met online and just so happened to be part of the same guild. It was doubtful that they'd ever meet in person, let alone ever build a lasting rapport. In his mind, Shirou's care was misplaced and unwarranted. Not to mention, Ulbert had never been kind to the man, given his history of hostility towards him, much like with Touch Me. He had no reason to treat him with the kindness he showed.

Ulbert could confidently say that he and Touch Me were rivals with a strong dislike of one another's personality and views. However, he struggled to pin down his relationship with Shirou and how the magus perceived him. Ulbert's bias led him to believe that Shirou shared his disdain for him, but he soon realized that this was not the case.

So why. Why did Shirou care so much about him?

After all, Ulbert was just a nobody. He couldn't fathom why someone, anyone, would bother to care for a misbegotten misanthrope like him.

Once again, Ulbert felt Shirou's smile on him. This time, there was a sense of melancholy but also hopefulness.

"Do I need a reason to help out a friend?" He asked rhetorically. His words were simple, yet profound.

Gently reaching out, Shirou laid a hand on Ulbert's shoulder. He flinched, but he didn't shy away, nor did he knock his hand off it. Instead, he allowed the brief feeling of warmth to rest there.

"Everyone has suffered a tragedy once in their life, You and I, Momonga-san, and no doubt Touch Me-san have suffered in some way. But it is what we choose to do after that truly matters. Your story may not have such a happy beginning, Ulbert-san, but it doesn't make you who you are. It is the rest of your story; who you choose to be that defines you." Shirou gently imparted.

"Tell me, Ulbert-san. Do you want to live out the rest of your life in hatred? Angry at everyone and everything around you? You are not entirely wrong in blaming the world for your misfortune. But do you wish for it to be all you'll ever believe in?"

No.

The answer was immediate, even if Ulbert dared not to say it.

Instead, he said this. "How the hell are you even sure?"

"How do I know? Simple, because it wasn't too late for me, and it's especially not too late for you. Just like me, it was thanks to everyone who showed me the way. Because there are people who do care about you. You have friends, those in Momonga-san, Tabula-san, even Peroroncino-san and Touch Me-san, and others. But this change can only happen if you allow it to happen.

Even if you don't admit it, you do believe there is still some good left in this world. If you did not believe this, then why would you have remained with us for so long, from Nine's Own Goals to Ainz Ooal Gown? You undoubtedly consider Momonga-san and Arcadia-san to be true friends. If you were convinced that humanity was inherently malicious and despised everyone, then you would have bothered with us, now would you? You would have left a long time ago and remained a solo Player. Yet, here you remain with us to this day."

Shirou directed, pointing out the potential fallacy in Ulbert's argument and belief.

"As you mentioned, if humanity is responsible for turning this world into a living nightmare, it is only fair that we are the ones to take the responsibility to make it better. It all begins with a single step - no matter how big or small. You can start by lending a helping hand to someone in need, offering your seat to a stranger on the bus, or simply leading your ears to a friend's woe. The decision is yours, Ulbert-san. What do you want to achieve in life?"

With nothing more to say, Shirou turned and left while Ulbert watched him disappear from sight. Ulbert was left alone with his thoughts in the hallway, and he had no idea how long he stood there in silence. Time seemed meaningless to him as it dragged on. The only sounds were the soft ringing and the dead noise echoing in his ears. Meanwhile, his mind was a tempestuous storm of thoughts and questions, with Shirou's words echoing endlessly.

Suddenly, he burst into bitter laughter, his body shaking uncontrollably and nearly doubling over as he struggled to contain the convulsive fits of maniacal mirth that threatened to escape him. The sound echoed through the virtual halls, haunting in its intensity. The irony in his voice was unmistakable, a clear reflection of the tempest of emotions that raged within him. He laughed for what seemed like an eternity until his throat grew hoarse from the exertion.

Ulbert leaned against the wall as the dregs of his laughter died down. His knees were shaking and felt like jelly, but he powered through the numbness. His chest and throat hurt and burned, struggling to keep him from passing out. Yet, he persevered through it all.

From the moment his parents died and left him alone to now, Ulbert has lived on nothing but his hatred and anger. Fueled by that single, solitary belief that he held. It had influenced him and shaped him to be who he was this very day. A bitter and cynical man angry at the world.

The intensity of his animosity towards everything and everyone around him was akin to a mighty and destructive inferno. It was an all-consuming blaze that left nothing in its wake, and yet it was destined to burn out quickly. For years, this inferno of resentment raged on, fueled by his anger at the world for being the way it was and his contempt for the people who had turned it into the nightmarish reality it had become. This belief served as his driving force, propelling him forward with unshakeable conviction. Throughout his life, he had encountered nothing and no one who could challenge this unyielding belief.

Until now.

One serious conversation, that was all that it took. One conversation with the man he had once regarded as a simpleton, someone he had openly ridiculed and belittled, revealed to him just how insular his own views truly were. Ulbert had considered himself to be privy to the inner workings of the world because he learned the "truth" early in his life, only to have that same man throw Ulbert's words right back at him.

Amidst the harsh realities of life, Ulbert was forced to carry on, but never was he allowed the time to mature and come to grips with the world around him. He was forced to grow up, unable to work through his feelings, to actualize his thoughts and emotions, or process his trauma because he couldn't afford to. Instead, he clung to his childish ways, for he was still very much like a child, lashing out at everything because he was hurt. Hatred was an emotion humanity had in excess, and Ulbert simply latched onto it because it was easier to hate and blame everyone and everything than it was to admit otherwise.

Ironically, Ulbert's beliefs about humanity were somewhat simplistic and naive, despite his unwavering conviction in them as the absolute truth. While his perspective was not entirely misguided, it was far from the universal truth he believed it to be. And it would be Shirou of all people who pointed this out to Ulbert, which made him reevaluate his beliefs. Had it been Touch Me in his place, Ulbert had no doubt that the World Champion would have been quick to admonish his cynical outlook on the world. Such was the nature of the self-righteous man he was.

For Shirou, he acknowledges both the good and the bad of the world and of men. Unlike Ulbert, Shirou knows there's no such thing as absolute goodness or absolute wickedness in humanity. Merely people doing what they can.

Ulbert's ideology was inherently flawed. Much like a child who only saw things in black and white. The world was never that simple. Ulbert saw the world and its people drenched in blackness and the light as nothing more than a false promise. That couldn't be any closer to the truth, as the world was filled with a million shades of gray.

Shirou's life embodied that, going against almost everything Ulbert believed in. A man who epitomized the good and the bad in life.

Shirou imparted upon Ulbert a poignant realization of his own personal disillusionment. Despite having faced immense suffering, Shirou still found a way to smile, one that spoke volumes about his resilience. So, if someone like Shirou was still standing and smiling after the shit he has seen, why couldn't someone like Ulbert look past his misanthropy?

It was why he was laughing like a madman. As if he just heard the funniest joke, with himself being the punchline.

'How appropriate…' Ulbert thought.

Ulbert laughed uncontrollably because he couldn't help it, unable to contain his amusement at the delicious irony of it all. His negative perception of humanity saw anyone at their worst and anyone who tried to deny it as nothing more than a hypocrite. Such were his views on Touch Me and Shirou in particular. Ulbert thought of himself as savvy enough to know that he wasn't an exception in his views. However, he did see himself as enlightened enough to know where he stood, and he looked down on others for that same reasoning.

Ironically, it was such world views that Ulbert believed in an ideal that painted others as hypocrites while failing to recognize his own hypocrisy. He was too entrenched in his narrow-minded moral beliefs to see beyond his own preconceptions. If he didn't care about anyone, then why does he value his friendship with Momonga so highly? Because, deep down, Ulbert was not as detached as he liked to think. He cared for connections, just as anyone else.

He was the biggest type of hypocrite—the one who didn't see himself as one.

It showed in how fickle his ideals and beliefs were that in one conversation, that seemingly seething, ever-burning fire has been doused, reduced to a mere smoldering ember. His deeply rooted ideals and beliefs were shaken by the words of a single man and from the unlikeliest of sources. For nearly two decades, he had clung to these beliefs, which had taken hold after the untimely passing of his parents. Prior to this encounter, he had never been challenged on his views, but now, everything he thought he knew was unraveling before him.

Shirou had cast doubt on his belief and made him rethink everything he once knew to be true. And the thing was, Ulbert couldn't find himself mustering any strength to say he was wrong or hate him.

"Youta-san!"

Youta was abruptly jolted from his thoughts when Ichirou loudly called out his name. He was forced back into reality, realizing he was back in the same room as his rival.

"I would hazard a guess that Emiya-san gave quite the talk to you, just like he did with me." Said Ichirou, giving Youta an expectant look.

A look that only annoyed Youta even further. "Knock it off. Just because I don't hate you now doesn't mean we're buddy-buddy. I'm sure as shit not going to spill my life's story just because you asked. You don't hear me asking for yours."

"Perhaps. However, it does warm my heart to see you've changed for the better, Youta-san." Ichirou let the matter drop but still gave a sincere smile at Youta.

Youta had undergone an experience similar to his own. How much and how far, Ichirou could only guess. As such, he refrained from pushing for an answer, as he was conscious enough to realize that he wouldn't want others to pressure him into giving details. He wouldn't do the same to a friend.

"Go eat a dick!" Youta derided with a deadpan glare.

"Eloquent as always, I see, Youta-san." Ichirou remarked with a flat look of his own.

To which the salaryman responded with a mocking snort. Oh, how things have changed, yet, they remain all the same. Then again, the two of them wouldn't exactly have it any other way. Youta's mocking derision versus Ichirou's straight-laced nature.

"You should really thank that bastard next time around. If he and Momonga-san weren't around, I would've likely gotten sick enough of your shit that I would've PKed you into quitting!"

Ichirou responded by chuckling at Youta's threatening remark. "Really? Then perhaps I should do the same. I may be patient, but there is a limit."

Youta grinned and gave a mocking laugh. "Please, as if you would have the balls for that!"

Ichirou smiles mischievously. "You'll find that I do have the 'balls' for many things, and I am not afraid to teach you a lesson, my friend."

"Try it and beat your ass black and blue!"

"Need I remind you which one of us is the World Champion?"

"You think I give a shit?"

"You would be surprised, Youta-san. Emiya-san has played the part of annoying conscience for quite a long time. Not only on me but all of us, I reckon. Ever wondered why we mellowed out on our PKing and aggressive expansion? Blame the team mom."

Youta was dumbfounded for a second, thinking on Ichirou's words before his eyes widened in realization.

"You know, I'm not sure if I should thank him or curse him. He stole my kills by pacifying my Demonic Bloodlust! Damn you, Hero Emiya!"

With mock fury, he raised his fist and shouted into the air, causing the edge of Ichirou's lips to twitch upwards. They fell into a comfortable silence before Youta spoke again.

"For the record, I'm calling him Team Mom next time we have a guild meeting."

The amusement that arose from this situation caused Ichirou to let out a boisterous laugh, which was followed by Youta's subtle chuckle. It was a strange notion, but not an unwelcome one. After a brief bout of shared laughter, silence reigned over the room before Ichirou promptly rose from his seat.

"I've kept you here for long enough. Come, let's get you out of this room."

"About time." Youta grumbled as he stood up and stretched, all too happy to finally leave.

Together, the duo made their way through the station, heading towards main door. However, just before they could reach it, they spotted the very same officers who had taken Youta in. The group noticed the salaryman, and the elderly officer could easily discern the mischief and intent glinting in their eyes. Behind him, he sensed his comrade tensing up, bracing himself for the ridicule that was to come.

Before anything could happen, Ichirou took charge and marched forward, startling and staring down his juniors with an air of authority.

"Is there something you or your friends need, Satou-san?" Ichirou questioned the younger officer, giving the group a hard look.

Caught off guard, the four couldn't help but freeze up under their senior's securitizing glare.

"I well…." The officer stuttered out, looking between Youta and Ichirou.

"I believed I said that I would take care of it. There's no need for you to concern yourself with him now. Now then, on your way. I'm quite busy at the moment." Ichirou dismissed them, and not wishing to make a scene, they listened to their orders.

Ichirou looked back to Youta and motioned for him to follow as the officers slinked away. Youta glanced at the retreating officers before glancing back at Ichirou.

"I could have handled them." He muttered, loud enough for Ichirou to hear.

"A simple 'thank you' would've sufficed, Youta-san." Ichirou quipped. "And, that, I have no doubt, but it never hurts to have a bit of help." He added, leaving Youta silent.

After arriving at their destination and retrieving Youta's confiscated items, including his breathing mask and coat, they noticed that it was raining heavily outside. The downpour had blanketed the sky in an inky hue.

"Figures it would be raining, just my luck." The salaryman clicked his tongue as he dressed himself.

"Would you also like me to escort you home?" Ichirou offered.

"What am I, a child? I can damn well take care of myself. Besides, what would your wife think if she were to hear you offering to take another man home?" Youta threw him a grin.

Ichirou rolled his eyes at Youta's juvenile joke. The salaryman got a cheeky laugh at the exasperated look on the officer's face. As he reached for the door, Ichirou called out to him one last time, to impart onto him one last word and piece of advice.

"You know, we always have your back. Momonga-san, Emiya-san, and that includes myself. If you ever need something, don't be afraid to ask."

Youta paused and turned towards Ichirou. His face was unreadable for a few seconds before he flashed a mocking smile. "Careful Touch, your hero is showing. I'm not so pathetic that I can't take care of myself."

"No, but a friend can certainly help." Ichirou replied with a small smile. He gave the salaryman a slap on the back, which Youta shook off.

He glared back at him, more annoyed than any actual anger. Youta huffed and turned his back towards Ichirou. However, just before he put on his filter mask, he craned his neck back at the white-haired officer one last time.

"See ya around, Ichirou-san."

With those final words, he walked away. Had he lingered a little longer, he would have noticed Ichirou's surprised look before it turned into a soft smile with sincerity dancing in his eyes.

"To you as well, Youta-san."

And so they parted ways that day, a cheerful camaraderie once thought dead, reignited. In a different time, such an event would've never happened, and their paths would have become irreversibly diverged. However, this time around, the Fates were much kinder, thanks to the meddling of a Fake Player.

They would meet once again under the banner of Ainz Ooal Gown, and a story for another day.

[—][—][—][—][—][—][—][—][—]

"I'm home." Said Ichirou as he stepped through the door to his well-furnished home.

"Papa!" A high-pitched voice called out.

In front of the doorway and across the hall were a set of spiral staircases that led to the house's second floor. Rumbling footsteps could be heard as someone ran down to greet him. It was none other than his daughter, who ran up to her father and jumped into his arms.

"Woah!" Ichirou caught her as she hugged his chest, giggling all the while as the two spun in circles.

"Papa! Papa!" She excitedly called out.

Seeing the warm and energetic smile on his daughter's face, Ichirou couldn't help returning with one of his own. Already he was starting to relax, all thanks to the pride and joy of his life.

"How are you doing, sweetie? How was school?" He asked with a smile, a hand running through her lovely hair.

Instead of answering immediately, his daughter instead looked up to him with her tiny hands outstretched. Seeing his, Ichirou couldn't help but chuckle. Reaching up, he removed his police cap and rested it on her head. The hat, being a size too big, sat loosely on her head, leaning in one particular direction. She paid it no mind and smiled with a smile sweeter than any candy.

"Thank you, papa!"

"Always, sweetie."

"Well, someone seems happy to see daddy today." A third voice chimed in. Walking towards the duo was none other than Ichirou's lovely wife. A childhood sweetheart of his from when they were still kids and the very first person he helped/saved.

Ichirou's smile only grew, feeling the tender embrace of both his beloved wife and child.

"How was work today, dear?" Ichirou's wife asked.

"A roller coaster of emotions, I'll say that much. But I'll have to say, it's gotten a lot better with you all here." Ichirou smiled.

"Oh, you! Always the charmer." She teased, leaning in and giving him a chaste but loving kiss. One that Ichirou returned.

"Eyyy, Mama and Papa are making kissy faces again." The two heard their daughter's comment.

The parents couldn't help but smile, amused by their daughters' words.

"And when you're older, you'll be making kissy faces as well, young lady." Ichirou's wife playfully replied, booping her on the nose.

"Yuck! Boys are nasty!" Ichirou's daughter stuck out her tongue in mock disgust. "I don't have time for boys! When I grow up, I'll be too busy being a hero! Just like Papa."

"Not on an empty stomach, you're not. Come on, let's get ready for dinner."

"Ok!"

The mother extended her hand toward her daughter, who grasped it excitedly with both hands, and they exchanged joyful smiles. As they strolled towards the dining room, they noticed that someone was absent.

"Papa?"

"Dear?"

They both called out. Ichirou lingered behind, wearing a peculiar yet satisfied expression in his eyes. He blinked and shook his head before joining them.

"Coming!"

As the family of three strolled together to the dinner table, Ichirou's mind wandered back to a significant moment. He recalled the words that Shirou had imparted to him when he opened his eyes to the fact that there was more to existence than just pursuing one's ideals.

'Touch Me-san. It is not wrong to chase after them, no matter how impossible they may be. But never lose sight of what is truly important in your life. There'll come a time when you might have to make a choice. Choose what you know is right, not what you think is right.'

As long as Ichirou lived, he would not give up on his ideals as a Hero of Justice, but he would not allow them to rule him. After all, it was also for them—his wife and daughter—that he continued striving to be the best he could be.

And that was good enough for him.

[—][—][—][—][—][—][—][—][—]

Youta sat on the tram, taking in the torrential rain pouring outside the windows. His face was inscrutable behind his mask as he mulled over his recent experience at the police station. After leaving the police station where he was held, he raced to the closest station and boarded a tram to finally make his way home. Despite the crowded conditions, he boarded it in time and was fortunate enough to snag a seat, though he was uncomfortably close to his fellow passengers with his shoulders touching his neighbors. Nevertheless, it was still a marked improvement over standing in the cramped aisle of the tram.

As the tram pulled into a station and more passengers boarded, Youta was jolted out of his deep thoughts. He observed the commuters entering the train in a lazy daze until his attention was drawn to one particular person. Amidst the throng of fully-grown adults, he noticed someone who appeared to be a child. The individual was noticeably smaller than the other passengers and was wearing a nondescript overcoat and face mask.

Youta had no idea why, but his eyes wouldn't leave the kid alone. Because of this, he was able to pick up on the small details surrounding the youngling. The kid was leaning against one of the metal poles erected in the middle. One of his hands wrapped around the pole, but it was clear to all that his grip on it looked loose. The salaryman could make out minuscule tremors coursing through the child's frame; most notably, his legs were shaking intermittently, and his mask was drooping frequently.

It didn't take a genius to guess that the kid looked ready to collapse at any second, and the kid was struggling to remain conscious. He glanced around, looking at everyone to see if anyone else noticed. If any of the passengers did, they certainly didn't show it. They remained content to remain as they were, refusing to acknowledge or even care for the child's well-being.

If no one was going to help him, then who would?

"Hey, kid!"

All heads turned towards the sudden voice, as it was none other than Youta that spoke up. He stood up and pointed at the child. The child appeared confused and uncertain, looking around before hesitantly pointing at himself.

"Yeah, you. Hurry your ass up already!" He ordered, which got the kid moving. He wobbled forward, almost tripping over his own feet as he attempted to navigate through the cramped and crowded space.

Youta could feel the eyes of everyone watching him, but he gave no attention. His focus was solely on the kid. He vacated the comfy seat and presented the empty spot to him. The child looked at it and then back to Youta, almost as if he wasn't sure what to believe.

"T-thank you..." He whispered hoarsely as he settled into the seat. Gratitude shone through the mask's lens, and Youta simply nodded in response.

He walked over to take his place near the metal pole where the kid once occupied. The gaze of the passengers remained on him, but Youta paid them no mind. He leaned against the pole and watched as the kid sat down and made himself comfortable. Within seconds, he started to relax, and soon he was asleep.

"Tch, couldn't you have handed it over to someone who might need it more?" A voice scoffed.

Youta turned toward the voice and glared at the man. "You're an adult, so suck it up and quit being a bitch!" He bit back.

Silencing the man, he turned back around and kept his gaze on the sleeping youngling for the rest of the ride. It wouldn't be long before the tram arrived at his destination. As luck would have it, it wasn't just Youta's stop but also the kid's, as he awoke suddenly from the intercom's callout. He jolted awake, rushing to make it out before the door closed. As he tried to leave the tram, he stumbled and nearly fell, but Youta stepped in and caught him just in time.

"Watch yourself, kid." Youta said, and he kept a hand on the kid's shoulder to stabilize his balance.

He turned to the salaryman, recognizing the voice to be the same man who was nice enough to offer his seat to him.

"I-I'm sorry." The boy stammered.

"Where are you heading, kid?" He asked.

The kid answered by pointing at an apartment complex that was just across from the tram station. The same apartment complex where Youta lived as well.

"What are the odds?" He muttered to himself. "That's also where I'm headed. Come on, let's go."

"I-I'm fine, sir... I can..." The kid tried to get out, which was promptly shut down by what the salaryman had to say.

"Kid, if it weren't for me holding onto you, you would flop onto the ground." Youta deadpanned. "Don't be difficult, and come on. We don't have all day." Despite his seemingly harsh words, he was looking out for the young boy.

After some hesitation, the boy gave in and held Youta's hand as they slowly made their way home. They walked at a sedated pace, with Youta slowing down and matching his pace with the kid as he was still regaining his bearings. Eventually, they reached the complex and the elevators. Within the building, they tore off their masks and allowed themselves a moment to breathe. First things first, Youta had to drop the kid off at his home.

Upon reaching the floor, he escorted the kid until they arrived outside his door. He stood and waited, hearing the telltale noise of the door unlocking, revealing who he presumed to be the kid's mother greeting them.

Youta could tell that she was tired but made an effort to hide it if the smile on her face was any indication. It reminded Youta very much of his own mother and how she would always try and smile, no matter how rough things got. The mother's eyes brightened when she saw her son but widened instantly upon seeing him with a stranger next to him.

"Dear, who's this?" She asked in a guarded tone. Her eyes trained solely on Youta, and despite the previous fatigue shown, she looked ready to fight.

"I'm no one. Your kid looked like he needed some help from tripping over himself, so I decided to lend a hand." Youta answered.

She looked at her son, who nodded enthusiastically with a smile.

"He's a nice mister, mom! I was feeling really tired on the way home, and he gave me his seat, but I fell asleep. He also helped me when I was about to fall and helped me walk!"

Hearing this, she visibly relaxed, giving Youta a sheepish glance.

"Thank you for taking care of my son." She bowed to Youta.

"Thank you, mister!" The boy added.

"Sure, whatever, you're welcome—"

All three of them heard a loud rumbling noise, which cut off Youta in the middle of his sentence. His stomach rumbled, sending out a distress call that he was hungry and causing his face to immediately redden in embarrassment. Mortified couldn't even begin to describe what he felt at that moment, and in front of strangers no less.

The mother held a hand to her mouth and had the decency to at least not laugh, but he could all but see her amused smile. The boy, on the other hand, had no restraint, and found it to be the funniest thing as he giggled.

"Would you... like to come in for a quick bite to eat?" The mother offered.

"You're just going to invite a stranger into your home?" Youta instantly questioned. He had no idea if she was being generous or cheeky with her offer.

"You helped my son. That's a hell of a lot more than anyone has done for him. Think of it as thank you for your help."

Youta looked at her, finding her to be sincere in her offer. He glanced back at the boy who looked at him with eager eyes, he too wanted Youta to join them. The salaryman mused on it.

'Ahh, screw it. I'm already late as it is because of Touch Me, so what the hell? I'll be sure to apologize to Momonga-san when I get on later.' Youta reasoned. Nodding his head, he accepted her invitation. If nothing else, he'll get a free meal out of it.

"Yay! Let's go, mister!" The boy cheered, grabbing the salaryman's arm and pulling him forward.

"Easy brat! Also, stop calling me mister! I have a name, you know."

"Care to share, or else my boy will just call you mister for the rest of dinner." The mother asked, following right behind Youta.

"...Youta Kurayami."

"I see. Come then, Youta-san. I'm sure you must be quite famished."

As Youta dined with them, time flew by quickly. Initially, he planned to have a quick meal and then leave to go back to his own apartment. However, he ended up staying longer than he had planned, enjoying their company and the delicious home-cooked food. He left only after spending an additional hour chatting away with them.

For the first time he could remember in years, Youta ate with others, no longer feeling alone. And the thing was, he enjoyed it.

Author's Notes:

〚Before we get into the usual fanfare, I would like to ask all my readers who've read all three interludes a question. Among the three Daily Lives chapter, which is your favorite? I'm very curious to hear/read your answers and opinions. This'll also help gauge viewer interests. For myself, while this chapter was certainly the most interesting, I would have to say my favorite was definitely the first interlude; Peroroncino and Bukubukuchagama. I always get a smile whenever I go back for a reread. So please, do let me know which one you've enjoyed the most.〛

Now then, onto the analysis.

The idea, theme, and exploration of the chapter involved followed a similar course to how I approached the characters, such as my portrayal of Peroroncino. Namely taking what's already established and turning their somewhat static characters and trying to explore different ideas and nuances about them. More specifically, taking a core aspect of their character and running with it. Similar to Peroroncino, who's always depicted as a perverted character, Touch Me is commonly portrayed as the paragon of virtue, the generic virtuous player/hero. With Ulbert taking the role as Touch Me's opposite. Not too much is truly known about them besides what given, and out of all the background characters within Overlord these two are arguably the most influential character on Ainz in canon.

There were two goals I wished to fulfill in the chapter. Adding and exploring the relationship between Touch Me and Ulbert beyond what we already know. And diving into how a character like Shirou change/influence them.

Touch Me is a rather interesting case, as on the surface and to an extent his character and Shirou's are almost identical. They both wish to become Heroes of justice, wishing to help others, and do good, etc... Like Peroroncino, there are facets to him that I wanted to explore and dipped my hand into in which aren't fully explored in the LN. One of those ideas specifically was his notion and idea of justice. In the canon of Overlord, the world is a textbook definition dystopian society. His dream, his way of life was stripped away and he turned to YGGDRASIL. This notion has never been fully stated and more implied. I wanted to further expand on that idea, diving into the mind, psychology, and belief of someone like Touch Me, an ordinary man trying to reach an ever reaching dream. I framed him similar to Shirou, but less extreme and fervent in his ideals. Showing Touch Me in a different light, showing a crack in the armor and the man behind it.

- In a way, how I characterized Touch Me, he's very reminisced of a younger, and stubborn Shirou at the beginning of Unlimited Blade Works, but also a hint of Archer with his self-loathing and critical view on his ideals. I had the idea of Shirou being a foil to Touch Me. Their piece was based heavily off on the interaction and relationship of Shirou and Archer back in Unlimited Blade Works. With Shirou representing Archer's role, but not in an antagonistic role but rather to help reaffirm Touch Me's beliefs. He helps to draw parallels between the two, but also call to the differences between Shirou's view of a hero and Touch Me's.

- The main idea and point was an exploration of two characters that are seemingly the same on the surface. I wanted to differentiate Touch Me's views and ideals with that of Shirou's. Showing the similarity, but also the minute difference between the two of them. Namely, showing a more humane and down to earth exploration of this version of Touch Me.

In Ulbert's case, his misanthropy is a hallmark of his character. Besides Peroroncino, he was a character I enjoyed to explore and think of new ideas to explore his character. He shares many similarities with Momonga/Ainz. Both lost their parents when they were very young, both only finished elementary school and then were forced to work, both worked arduously as a salaryman, both looked to YGGDRASIL as an escape, and so on. Where Momonga grew introverted from his experiences, Ulbert developed to become a misanthrope. He was a victim of circumstances due to the dystopian world of Overlord, just like Momonga, and Touch Me. Like Touch Me, I wanted to expand on his relationship, backstory, and beliefs to make him a more well-rounded character, rather than simply the de facto "evil" character in Overlord writing.

- I used the exact same model for Ulbert as Touch Me, but this time I framed Ulbert as Archer, representing his loathing and hatred. Unlike Touch Me where Shirou counters him, here he opposes Ulbert's beliefs and outlook in life and challenges them. His case followed a similar beat to how Shirou vs Archer went down. Similar to Touch Me, Shirou never truly admonishes Ulbert for his belief.

Shirou served as a medium of sorts between the two characters, as he from his personal experience he rides a line between the two characters and their ideals. Showing that they weren't necessarily wrong in their ideals and beliefs, but neither are theirs completely right or absolute. Following in line with the central theme of what it means to be a human being.

Not just their relationship with Shirou but also with one another. In the LN and canon, Ulbert and Touch Me's relationship was more akin to that of rivals then actual hatred. It has been noted that Ulbert doesn't truly hate Touch Me and was more jealous than anything. Their canon selves could be looked at as a sort of frienemy. I wanted to run with this idea, and further their relationship and contextualized them with how I choose to characterize them and the choices I made.

Namely focusing on what if Ulbert does "hated" Touch Me, giving what is known about Ulbert and his beliefs versus that of Touch Me's. Showing further depth to their respective character and fleshing out the two roles with one another. Showing their relationship and views on one another isn't simply one sided. I guess, trying to show that they are people, with likes, dislikes, and objectivities to their own characters. One is clearly a 'glass is half full' kind of man and the other a 'glass is half empty.' But they are not completely defined by that singular quality they are known for.

Both were clearly affected by the world, and both have to live in a world that does not truly care for them. Their general attitude and beliefs were close night and day but at the same time, they were far more alike beneath the surface. Like two sides of a coin, both of them representing a facet of one another. A reflection of humanity. It was this duality that I found it so interesting to think of and write, while also incorporating Shirou in the mix as well. To form a cocktail of character growth and interaction.

I also wanted to originally include an excerpt involving a breakdown and explanation of Touch Me and Ulbert and their respective player avatar similar to how I did it in the Peroroncino and Bukubukuchamaga interlude. Pointing out the potential symbolism and whatnot. However, I found that it didn't flow right so I thought I'll just include the basic idea here.

[I characterized Ulbert with the classic, anime-style dead eyes to show and emphasize his belief. Revealing much about himself but also how he views the world. He saw no purpose in the world he calls reality. One where living itself was considered his own personal hell. Everything and everyone he view through the lens of cynicism was all the same. How fitting it was that it took the false reality of YGGDRASIL to feel truly alive. The character of Ulbert Alain Odle is a demon. Demons were oftentimes characterized as foils for humanity, beings of excesses. Creatures that embodies the worst of mankind, lust, power, envy, destruction, and so much more. Fitting, as it mirrored Youta's views. He believed that humans were nothing short of monsters/demons by their actions alone. So he embraced that ideology. Everything about the character of Ulbert, from his mannerisms, stylized form of speech, and preferred form of tactic in battle. It all screamed of outrage. Unlike in life where all he was just a cog in the machine, under the thumb of others with no true power of his own. Where all his life he never felt once in control, in YGGDRASIL it was he that now possessed power. Power of near unimagined magnitude that which made him so feared amongst the players. For in YGGDRASIL he was the one in control.

Where Ulbert embraced it all, Touch Me instead chose to mask it. At first glance, it would be impossible to tell that Touch Me even belonged to the Heteromorphic race. His brilliant white armor, Compliance with Law, was a full suit of armor that hid his entire body. Making it impossible to accurately identify his avatar's character race. Its design honoring the likes of heroes of old from the likes of fairy tales. But following that notion, it was almost as if Touch Me was hiding away the truth behind a shining appearance. The brilliant white armor hides his heteromorphic race as if Ichirou was hiding from the truth. Matching his belief and attitude about himself, and how he viewed the disappointing reality of his world. Forced to keep his beliefs to himself lest he attracts the wrong attention. Touch Me was forced to wear a façade, forced to abide by and follow the rules of a corrupt society. Like Ulbert, he came to YGGDRASIL in order to feel some semblance of control over his life and belief...]

That was as much as I could think up and connect, but as you could probably see, it's a bit jumbled and all over the place, especially with Touch Me. I thought it was still neat, and didn't want it to go completely to waste, so here it is.

Just like with Peroroncino and Bukubukuchagama, I tried making them as thematic as I could to have fun with their names. Once again, I wasn't exactly original in my approach but meh, I liked it.

Touch Me – Ichirou (First Son) Yūkan'na (Yukanna 勇敢な = roughly translate to "Braveshine")

Ulbert Alain Odle – Youta ( 擁汰 = roughly translate to "Is holding too much") Kurayami (暗闇 = Roughly translate to Darkness)

And that ends that. Finally, the interludes are all written and done with. While I enjoyed writing them and everything, I will admit that it gets a bit boring sometimes writing only dialogue, exposition, or narration. I crave some good actions and explosive writing, that'll get the imagination and drive to write pumping! Now we'll be heading back to the main story, and the next story "arc" and one that I'm very excited to write and show in the next few chapters.

Thank you again for reading. Please, rate and review

[—]

AU Omake: This omake came from not only Pride's idea of having the Elf NPC twins, as Buku and Shirou's kid but also something I remembered. Anyone remember the scene from season 3 of the Overlord Anime? Where Ainz and Aura are riding of her mount and how he embarrassed her? You can easily look it up on Youtube and search: [Overlord III - Ainz makes Aura embarrassed cute moment]. Now, how about we think about this scene in the context of Shirou and Buku being Aura's and Mare's parent as well as the fact old bone daddy "touched" little ole Aura.

Well...

Within the Great Tomb of Nazarick, a mighty cry could be heard throughout the massive guild base. The voice carrying all the way to the surface and beyond. Dashing through the halls with reckless abandonment and all the grace of a frightened teen was Momonga. The supposed Guildmaster and leader of Ainz Ooal Gown himself. At that moment, he didn't seem all that mighty or imposing. Especially not when he was screaming his head off.

"AAAHHHHH! I'M SORRY, PLEASE DON'T KILL ME!" the voice of the terrified lich reverted within the walls as he ran and ran. The destination didn't matter; all that mattered was that he was as far away as possible from... that!

His nonexistent eyes widened as he spied salvation. Without stopping, he opened the door to his personal room on the 9th Floor and slammed the door shut. He then used spell after spell to reinforce the door beyond comprehension. After exhausting himself, Momonga allowed himself a moment to rest as he stepped back further into his room, away from the door. All was quiet, and for a moment, Momonga believed everything would be alright.

Fate, however, decided to say 'Fuck that' and gave him the middle finger as a tear in space appeared right in the middle of his room.

The undead necromancer backpedaled as his large frame slammed against the wall. His mouth wide and his orbs burning as he stared at the tear with undiluted terror. His terror originated from the impossibility that stood before him. In a manner reminiscent of that one movie with the killer tape, the form of one of his dear friends, Bukubukuchagma, made its way through a tear in space. The edges of the anomaly warped and shifted aggressively in what seemed to be an attempt to reverse the grievous wound laid on the fabric of reality.

It was futile.

With a slimy, pustulous pink tendril, she helps the anomaly as her gelatinous body wiggles its way out of the hole and into his room. The embodiment of endless wrath held the instability of the hole in check. With a final heave, she finished dragging herself onto the other side. She landed with a splat and didn't move. A pink puddle stained his room. All was silent as the world itself seemed to hold its breath. Finally, one of them took action.

"Bu-Bukubuku?", a tremor seemed to overtake the words of the nightmarish skeleton as it took in the scene before him. Finally, he snapped out and lunged forward. "BUKUBUKUCHAGAMA!", His voice was reminiscent of a child at the eve of Christmas, ready to open their present.

"Momonga..." A terrifying voice called out.

That one word froze the lich in place. A paralyzing terror swept across him and sank deep into his bones, so deep that not even his newfound biology could overcome. He watched as the pool of pink slime congealed and condensed, standing up to form a blob-ish being.

"H-huh...", Momonga voiced his confusion at this odd turn of events. A chill ran down his nonexistent spine, and despite the slime having no face, Momonga could tell she was glaring at him.

Yet, before he could gather his thoughts, he was interrupted by his guildmate. "How...HOW DARE YOU!" Her voice boomed impossible with a voice and forced the undead overload into a shaking knee. However, the onslaught was far from finished.

"HOW DARE YOU LAY YOUR HANDS ON MY CUTE AND PRECIOUS AURA! MY SWEET ANGEL IS FAR TO YOUNG TO BE THINKING OF A RELATIONSHIP! HOW DARE YOU MARRED HER IIIIINNNNOOOOOCCCCEEEEENNNNCCCCEEEE!" Bukubukuchagama cried, her voice carrying with it the strength of a thousand [Cry of the Banshee].

"WAIT, WAIT!" Momonga pleaded, throwing his skeletal arms up. "That wasn't me! I've never even touched Aura like that! It was a different me!"

"Well, that Momonga isn't here right now, is he? So you'll have to do!" The voice actress argued back, shutting him down.

Momonga knew he was doomed. Scurrying back, he could only sit and watch as his doom approached. Bukubukuchagama launched herself towards the unguarded skeleton, a promise of impending torture marring her features. What followed was a mass of screams and pleas for mercy. But nobody came...

Within the Throne Room, the remaining members of Ainz Ooal Gown remained. The constant plea and terrified scream could be heard even from where they were. Despite their friend being in mortal danger, none showed any signs of moving to go help Momonga.

The cause of this whole ordeal was a small window that popped up in the Throne Room when all the members were present at the time. It was video, no longer a minute long, and showed Momonga, or Ainz, as he was called, and Aura. The content of it spurred Momonga to flee for his life.

"S-should we...go help Momonga...?" Warrior Takemikazuchi asked uncertainly.

"You want to go get in her way? By all means, go ahead." Amanomahitotsu quipped, his enlarged claw pointing at the opened double doors of the Throne Room.

Normally, Warrior Takemikazuchi would be among the first to rush to the aid of any of his friends, no matter the situation, but not this time. The samurai heteromorph was reckless, but he was far from stupid.

Another impossibly high-pitched scream echoed through the walls, followed by the entire room shaking. Everyone felt the ground tremble with the force of an earthquake. The rest of Ainz Ooal Gown looked at one another, still unsure of what to do, but at the same time, they did not regret their decision not to intervene.

"My...lords. Shouldn't we stop Lady Bukubukuchagama?" The Guardian Overseer pipped up. Albedo flinched as another one of Momonga's cries rang out.

"I think... we should allow them to sort their troubles out by themselves, Albedo. We would only be interfering with their... issues..." Tabula tentatively explained.

"B-but what if Lady Bukubukuchagama were to accidentally kill my love—I mean Lord Momonga?" Albedo deposited.

"Relax Albedo. Buku wouldn't do something like tha—" Yamiako words were swiftly cut off by what came next.

"OH SWEET MERCIFUL GOD, SHE'S KILLING ME! WHY WON'T SOMEONE HELP ME?!" Momonga's death scream was heard by all.

An awkward silence filled the Throne Room as everyone just looked at Yamaiko, who silently backtracked. Albedo clasped her hands together like she was praying, her body shaking and quivering, and she looked to be on the verge of tears. The Pleiades, along with Sebas, who was also in the Throne Room were equally as concerned as the Guardian Overseer. Even the stoic Sebas and the emotionless Shizu Delta had visibly concerned looks as they waited. However, none of them dared to move lest commanded by the Supreme Beings themselves.

"I hope you'll forgive me, Momonga." Peroroncino clapped his hands together and offered a silent prayer for his friend. That was all he could do. "There's no way I can go up against sis AND Emiya-senpai."

Indeed, for in the very beginning, Momonga was running away from Shirou. It seemed that the protective and parental instincts within Shirou and Bukubukuchagama were ignited due to the video they saw. And now they were out for blood.

Next to Peroroncino was a window that displayed a live feed. There, it tracked Shirou as he calmly and methodically walked down the hall. His destination, Momonga's room. His face was set in a dark look as he trekked down the hallway, very reminiscent of a certain Terminator with only one goal in mind. Shirou carried what could only be described as a shotgun... made out of swords.

Which was being watched by Ulbert and Touch Me.

"Hell hath no fury compared to a woman's anger." The archdemon commented, another round of Momonga's scream filling the air. A part of him pitied his friend and his particular situation. Another part of him couldn't help but giggle at the situation of it all. The last part of him couldn't help but admire just how powerful and resilient Momonga's lung was, considering the fact that he was screaming nonstop for five minutes.

"And Heaven holds no mercy to a father's wrath." Touch Me added, as he spied Shirou standing right outside the door, patiently waiting for Bukubukuchagama to be done so that it would be his time. All the while, he cocks a shotgun in SWORDS. As a father himself, the World Champion understood Shirou and Bukubukuchagama's motives. If anyone, even his friends, were to try the same thing on his own daughter, then they too would be in a world of pain.

It would take another hour before the screaming and shaking finally died down. When the other Guardians and NPCs inquired about what exactly happened that day, all the answers they received were the same. Nothing, nothing happened at all...

[FIN]