Chapter 2: Awakening in a New World
The servers didn't shut down... and Yhwach didn't feel his heart stop or experience the end he probably should have. 'Did they prolong the shutdown?' Yhwach reaches out to access his console but can't—his pale hand just presses air. "What is this?" Yhwach mutters, looking around the tomb in a voice that sounds deeper, more commanding, more... imperious. 'This voice... it carries such authority...'
Yhwach stands up from the throne and feels different. His vision seems enhanced, able to perceive details with supernatural clarity, and he can sense the spiritual energy flowing through the room. It's cold, but insignificant to one of his power.
"Is everything alright, Your Majesty?" A feminine voice interrupts his thoughts. Looking down, Yhwach's eyes narrow slightly in interest. Albedo is looking up at him, worry clear on her face, her bright yellow eyes shining with concern.
He observes her with calculating eyes. 'She addresses me with genuine concern... Such devotion.' Yhwach's expression remains composed as he considers this development. '...interesting. I should have expected nothing less from my creation.'
"Your Majesty?" Albedo repeats, stepping closer with evident worry. "Your Majesty! Is everything alright?"
Yhwach remains silent for a moment, his presence commanding even in stillness. Albedo's concern deepens, but she maintains her respectful distance. With measured calm, he finally speaks.
"I am quite well, Albedo. Tell me—are you able to access the administrative functions of this realm? They appear to be... altered." Yhwach's tone reveals his confusion at conversing with what should be an NPC.
Albedo looks puzzled before bowing deeply. "Forgive me, Your Majesty, but I do not understand what you mean by 'administrative functions.'"
'Her movements, her expressions... all genuine. This is no mere simulation.' Yhwach's eyes glint with understanding.
"I see," Yhwach says simply, his tone giving nothing away. Albedo straightens, still appearing concerned about potentially disappointing him.
'What fascinating circumstances... This bears investigation.' Yhwach settles back into the throne, his posture radiating quiet authority. 'If this is indeed a new world, then perhaps it is time to establish a proper order...' He glances at his staff, which still floats as it did in-game. 'The game physics still function... and I'm still within the tomb... but what about the outside world?'
"Sebas," Yhwach's voice carries absolute authority without being raised.
"Yes, Your Majesty?" Sebas responds immediately, rising from his respectful bow, his unwavering loyalty evident.
"Survey the perimeter. Extend no further than five kilometers. Observe any inhabitants you encounter, but do not reveal yourself. Report your findings directly to me."
"It shall be done, Your Majesty." Sebas bows again before departing with purpose.
"Pleiades," Yhwach continues, his commanding presence filling the room, "patrol the ninth floor. Ensure our domain remains secure."
"As you command, Your Majesty." They acknowledge before carrying out his orders.
'Their obedience is absolute. Good.' Yhwach's calculating gaze turns to consider the larger implications. 'If I have indeed been transported to another realm, then this presents... opportunities. The weak will kneel, and order will be established as it should be.'
Albedo remains in the throne room, maintaining her respectful stance while awaiting further commands. "Albedo," Yhwach says, his voice carrying the weight of unquestionable authority.
"Yes, Your Majesty?" she responds immediately, her devotion evident.
'I must assess the full extent of my power in this realm, and the capabilities of my subordinates...'
Yhwach stands and approaches her, placing a hand on her shoulder. She seems pleased by the gesture of acknowledgment. 'She feels real—completely solid and warm. In the game, only environmental objects had physical properties, not NPCs. This confirms my theory...'
"I need you to gather all floor guardians except those from the fourth and eighth floors. Have them meet in the battle arena on the sixth floor," he commands.
"Of course, my lord! Right away!" Albedo bows deeply before hurrying to carry out his orders.
'If this truly is another world, I need to understand the extent of my powers here, the loyalty of my subordinates, and what threats or opportunities await us outside these walls...'
As Albedo departs, Yhwach contemplates his situation. 'However this happened—whether through some form of reincarnation or dimensional transport—I must adapt quickly. Nazarick and its inhabitants are now my responsibility in whatever world this may be.'