Summary: Surprise, a quick shot on Pandora's Actor! How does the man that manages everything pass his diminishing free time? By keeping up with his perpetual Spring Cleaning of the Vaults of Nazarick of course! Also, boring things like reflecting on his view of being on the outside looking in of most of the other NPC's.

Vacation.

A rather wonderful word in Suzuki Saturo's home world that conjure of images of hot beaches and cool drinks for some or just a relaxing set of days at home. No matter what that image may end up being it is normally one of the most looked forward to things that any worker bee can put on the calendar. And while the ability and opportunity to do so may have changed, the desire never went away.

In stark contrast it was almost a sentence unremorseful meted out in Nazarick. Vacation and compensation were probably the on a tier of punishment just below exile or death as a traitor when it comes to conversation topics with Lord Ainz. Something that once they were sentenced a grim cloud hung over them until like a storm it managed to pass. And of those two, vacation time had definitely become the most stressful.

This difficulty was not the fault of the NPC's or their begrudging employer. More so a problem to do with the very core of their beings. In Ainz's world, people would normally work in order pursue meaning in their lives or to truly be able to freely experience what made them happy.

Not to say that there aren't those that would rather die at their job then ever leave it, but the NPCs took a much more literal perspective about this. Vacation in Nazarick instead was normally interpreted as a dissatisfaction with their performance.

Since their work was the sole reason for their continued existence, a divine gift that had been granted to them by their beloved creator. To need to be apart from it could only be a fundamental failure of their very self. Failing not only the merciful Lord Ainz, but their long-gone creators. Something that could only be corrected with time set apart from their work and could not be remedied until the time was up.

Ainz's current estimations brought him to believe that if he was lucky, a persistent application of the model of enforcing vacation would eventually lead them to accepting it as a good thing within a decade or so.

A more rational and less desperate perspective would not concur.

Sebas was a perfect example of how serious the NPCs took their duty. Sebas had been willing to take the life of the woman he loved instead of balking at his duty as the head butler of Ainz Ooal Gown. And he was one of the more naturally predisposed to like humans! It seemed that even long-term exposure and acceptance of the humans of this world had not broken this shell that guarded other interests.

Overwork had not proven itself to be an asset on this front either which made things even more difficult. Quite frankly, it was not a problem for any resident of Nazarick. Magic was remarkable in how many practical applications it had for improving the quality of life people at even the lower tiers, not even talking about the higher ones. Not being exhausted as they would under similar circumstances without these assets did not give them the satisfaction when they did take a break.

Ironically Ainz's own efforts on this front worked against him at times. The extra leg work that was involved and the concern that he showed not only deeply touched his subordinates but also shamed them for being told that they need to take a break on top of their other reasons for hesitating to accept.

Still one could not fault Ainz from trying to break them of this mentality. It made him feel deep with regret when he considered how much work that they did on his behalf and that there was basically nothing tangible that he could reward them with.

Prying them from their work also tended to leave him emotionally exhausted as the other party would normally beg at some point. But Ainz held firm. Better to have some discomfort amongst them with this change then to become a wicked slave-driving boss in his mind.

The foundation of the Sorcerer Kingdom had, despite the extra work it created, alleviated some of the tension with this problem. Dozens of NPCs were now working outside of Nazarick in order to continue Lord Ainz's plans, and a vacation could now mean for them a chance to return to their beloved home again.

Perhaps this system might eventually be the solution Ainz so desperately craved, yet there were more than a few remaining catches. It was still vacation time after all and that meant that, to be in accordance with orders, that they must set aside most of their old work in addition to their new jobs. From the lowest vassal to that of the Guardian Overseer herself this was true and being forced away from this purpose while kind of their master, left them dazed.

But there remained one figure above this confusion. One vassal that perfectly understood everything. Someone who never to fail to go against the current in Nazarick. And someone that also desperately wanted his vater to accept his proposal to wear matching capes.

Pandora's Actor might have felt bad for his fellow underlings about these understandings, but well he had bothered to ask his father what did and did not count for off time. A little extra persuading involving giving up his newest (and coolest) salute and his vacation time just became extra time for managing the treasure vault of Nazarick.

Mein father said something that it was like collecting stamps or other trinkets, whatever that means, and was therefore an acceptable hobby.

Interactions with Lord Ainz were never dull. He was normally very particular with how he expressed his vast intelligence and wisdom when it came to word or action. Pandora's Actor had observed when studying his character that he preferred to set up a question and situation and prod his subordinates until they were able to come close to the answer he had already reached.

Inviting independent thought whenever possible and showing a surprising flexibility when it came to be dealing with others.

It is probably difficult for him to lower himself to understand us. Truly he is most kind and compassionate to continuously make the effort.

Thanks to this Pandora's Actor struck what he believed must have been the most satisfactory working situation in all Nazarick. In keeping with this deal, twice a week after spending the other days filling in as the great hero Momon for his busy creator, he would shed the cool black armor for his own fashionable military uniform and skip back to his awaiting treasures.

The skipping of course being carefully concealed from his father who Pandora's Actor was trying to prove his growing maturity too. And who could blame him for being so excited to returning to his sacred duty? Who, after seeing what he stewarded over the years in good faith and trust, not be envious of him?

Little could excite him more than this form of all his father's possessions then that of his glorious father own form, and his domain. What felt like all the world's treasures overflowing from every chamber in an unending wealth that overwhelmed the idea of being able to properly store it.

Pandora's Actor had never had a reason for wanting anything from his master when it came to personal wealth or possessions as through his great lord, Pandora's Actor was in possession of what felt like all the world's wealth.

Such a boast did not fall short of its claim as after entering the Treasury Pandora's Actor was greeted by the thousands of legendary weapons that were piled haphazardly in between mounds of gold that even now still grew yet larger and more numerous. A new section of the overall titanic vault's floor space was being dedicated to selected pieces that had been collected from this world and sent his way.

The Treasury of Nazarick had a simple layout, a central vault that was surrounded by various alcoves and chambers, and after being transported to the main vault using a guild ring it revealed an area that was larger than the central palace of the Re-Estize Kingdom. Continuing until a hallway lead to Pandora's Actors personal office which shielded the Mausoleum. Sheer size of the facility and amount of its contents made it so that it was impossible for a more sophisticated arrangement then piles of similar.

Another proud boast that Nazarick could make was that it had been entirely self-sufficient when it came to replacing either coin or items that had been extracted from its vaults since when it had first arrived in this New World, and now with the land of a city-state and her vassals, it was growing as fast as it had ever been recorded in the books that Pandora's Actor recorded its inventory.

Arms outstretched as his hands ran through the piles that were in his way as he passed, like a child through a field at first glance. But those long thin fingers moved with a deftness and purpose that would be almost impossible for the average human to see. Carefully re-arranging everything that they met as he passed by in a whirl of motion.

The efficiency alone did little to impart how much grace Pandora's Actor possessed that came with years of experience and a body that was designed to move fluidly between states as though he was as malleable as clay. An impregnable shield to a powerful staff, and everything in between fit just as well in his hands when the situation called for it.

Something caused him to suddenly stop, the offending object seeming to stick to his finger as he pulled it closer to inspect. A chalice with his father's personal insignia carved into the sapphire that had been left in the wrong group of storage. It should have been atop the similar glasses with different signs carved in but instead it was facing inwards about halfway up the mound.

Such a minor difference would be hard to notice for anyone that wasn't as intimately aware of the sweeping main vault of the treasury of Ainz Ooal Gown.

Oh, is it that time again then? At least she didn't try to steal it this time and leave a fake.

His face remained unchanged as he produced a small key from his storage and proceed to unlock a compartment that contained a piece of paper with a series of marks. His other spindly touching his mouth as Pandora's Actor silently giggled in excitement.

Coded messages are so cool!

Espionage of this kind was rather obsolete in comparison to what magic could do, but the simplicity and security it offered worked well for the two parties involved. It would be similar to how in our present world that while it is much easier to use electronic devices for gathering and sharing intelligence, it remains more secure to have a small finger footprint. A few marks on a piece of paper while unusual, especially if found, was not the type of evidence that could quickly bury a conspiracy.

Speaking of marks on a paper, to elaborate more on the contents of the message for the uninitiated for a bit, the page was about the size of a card and divided into roughly four areas. The upper left had two strikes, meaning that the last two credible rumors had turned up in the negative. Always a performer, with a dramatic shrug he sighed.

Not that this is surprising. At this point, our intelligence gathering mechanisms would have provided a concrete proof. If any of the others were around it would be rather obvious at this point. Still it checks off any potential for either the Holy or Dwarven Kingdoms.

Next to it was an upside-down cross that had been circled. Hmm, now that is interesting! My, I wasn't expecting Demiurge to begin reacting at that level of suspicion yet. Though he's still just poking it would seem rather than preparing to confront her.

This sign was the third stage of suspicion that he and Albedo had agreed on of five. It was crucial to keep Demiurge in the dark till they could either verify the lack of the others presence or eradicate the. Mostly because, barring a major breach of something of the magnitude of a direct admission to another NPC, he was the only being that had a chance to stop them.

Not to say that if they accomplished their mission they would be in the clear if he found out, and the final sign would be to expect an immediate attack to be carried out against the demon.

There are certain options that are available to us to silence him now and while that may be more convenient. I managed to convince Fräulein that that would just be way too risky as well as too boring for my taste.

Pandora's Actor knew how badly the other NPCs would react if their cover was ever blown, so, if one day down the line it came to blows, he'd be ready. Completing their mission of securing Lord Ainz's position came before such petty desires at a certain point.

It was in this cause that Pandora had come to accept an approach that was spearheaded by Albedo, who had formally invited him to join in this conspiracy. The succubus had reacted interestingly to his bait, an all too telling reaction, but she had far exceeded his own expectations!

Such anger, such perception! I can still so clearly see that spirit that she showed that day that made me accept her as a worthy suitor for mein vater!

Flashback Start: Day after the Conclusion of the Shalltear Incident

Humming softly to himself a jaunty tune punctuated by enthusiastic outbursts in German, Pandora's Actor worked in much the same way as he had since the day he had been created. Except instead of starting with the usual separation of gold that would serve as the fuel that would keep the cogs of the Great Tomb running, he was busy cleaning the items that his creator had used to defeat the strongest guardian.

Annnnnd perfect! Pandora's Actor paused for a moment to admire the completely restored and polished [Earth Recover]. Gleaming silver that spoke of such wealth that the idea of using it as something to take a hit for its owner would have a miser in tears at the thought.

A [Divine Class] item such as this heater shield was unlikely to dent, even from a foe with classes designed to break shields, but properly maintaining this equipment was as much a joy as a responsibility. Setting it upon a stand with the completed [Compliance with Law].

It has been a great set of days in Pandora's Actor's opinion. He'd gotten to talk with his father again, meet some pretty girls, and, in a way that was similar to breaking out a fine bottle of champagne, retrieved the most powerful artifacts under his command.

Finishing off this wave of excitement by buffing out any scratches on the [Divine] class items and you might as well call it a perfect weekend.

Pandora's Actor

A clear snap could be heard as his head turned around with his body into a bow before he registered his still empty office. There was always something unsettling about receiving [Message] spell. To hear a voice as clear as if it were speaking into your ear pop into existence wasn't exactly something you could prepare for.

Hmmm, it would seem that someone has managed to annoy my dear overseer! She made the right choice in contacting me to deal with it.

"Ah, my dear Fräulein. Does my lord father call for me? Or did you miss me so much?"

Enough. This is a very serious matter that we need to discuss. One that I need to ascertain whether your intelligence or will is lacking.

The strong can exert a bone-chilling presence with just such a simple connection. Pouring through this link was a well of intent and seriousness that gave him pause as to how to respond.

"I swear upon my father's name, that I shall answer you satisfactory."

You swear to me on Lord Momonga's name?

Momonga huh? Ahhh, that confirms so many theories.

That trace of murder had been there the second she had walked into the room, from the way her eyes sharpened to the curling of tensing of dominant hand. Oh yes, that rage was intensified when Albedo saw through the deception, but the intent had always been there.

Pandora's Actor's world may have been suddenly expanded to a new world. And Albedo may have hated him more than anyone else at the Tomb at that moment, but they would be allies. They were both zealots in the same cause after all, and it gave Pandora's Actor a slight feeling of confirmation that she had been so quickly able to understand this fact about him.

"Yes I, Pandora's Actor, swear on my creators and the true lord of Nazarick's name, Momonga, to help put your mind at ease."

Good. A slight pause hung over the air, the pregnant pause might have affected others, but the doppelganger could only internally applaud her pageantry.

Why did you transform into Tabula to greet us?

Eh? Pandora's Actor had thought it was important given the extra pressure that she was trying to put on him but that was all?

"For the same reason you were going to attack me of course! There is only one Supreme Being."

Fufufufu, I agree! Yes, you understand! Then I have a proposition for you, one which will force the others to accept this. Will you help me and swear by that glorious name to assist me?

Pandora's Actor was so caught up in the excitement that all he bowed dramatically to the voice and replied.

"I am at your service"

Flashback End

Some might be surprised by how easily this usually serious son had so clearly gone against his father's wishes, were it not for one fact that remained clear in his mind. One truth had been all the rationale that Pandora's Actor needed to fully support this treasonous plot outside his own personal desires.

Simply put, the status quo that Nazarick had found in the wake of their arrival was only as stable as Lord Ainz remained as its unquestioned master. The arrival of another Supreme Being would permanently throw this out of balance and could lead to disaster.

In spite of all he has done for them and his caring nature, it would not be enough to overcome that intrinsic loyalty to those unworthy fools. And in his great magnanimity, my father would give them all the power and honors they wished.

Which meant that the biggest service that he could possibly hope to do to his glorious creator's rule was to eliminate these potential derailments.

Assuredly they would dim Lord Momonga's brilliance. Chaining him to them again only to leave him, alone.

Pandora's Actor knew something about loneliness.

Of all the different NPCs in Nazarick, Pandora's Actor in the before years had the loneliest existence in the tomb amongst NPCs. No subordinates of his own and completely isolated from the rest of the tomb with the means to cross this barrier not permissible for him or other NPCs.

A loneliness that would only be interrupted by demanding voices or another load of abandoned tools to stow away. Never to be seen or used again. Pandora's Actor emphasized with them all to well as he dutifully carried out his work.

It was in this silence that a miracle would happen. A kind, sad voice that talked softly as he slowly built the chamber around Pandora's Actor. Giving him clothes, and endowing Pandora's Actor with everything that made him feel like himself.

From this creator, he had learned everything. But one lesson he learned was why he would never forgive those others.

Pandora's Actor had been the model that Momonga had used as the basis for the Avatara in the Mausoleum. Watching as his noble creator broke more every time as he added one of those dreadful golems.

Never being able to talk or comfort his creator, just having to witness the rage and sorrow that would normally wash over him at first. Sometimes Momonga would just beg for them to come back and not leave him here alone. Others he'd just question whether it had been his fault all along that they were gone.

Now that things were livelier, it had become easier for his father to hide from others how much he was suffering underneath the image he upheld. Easily deflecting the other NPCs who tried to understand him.

I have learned and seen too much from him to ever be so fooled as they are.

Combined with his intelligence, his ability to read everyone in a room is almost as unmatched as his inability to read how to act in said room. Not that this was terribly surprising given his… unique quirks. It would be foolish to ignore just how much Pandora's Actor understood about those around him.

That grief and loneliness had not faded from his father's heart, but it was mending. Pandora's Actor knew that it could only be because that slowly he was coming to trust his own creation and the other NPCs with his heart.

Lord Momonga was too fragile for another blow to befall him, not when so much progress had already been made in making him happy again. Even now they would surely lose him if even one of his old 'comrades' appeared.

That would never happen though.

This was personal for Pandora's Actor. To think that not only had these creatures abandoned him so easily but that they would then dare try to return as if nothing happened made his entire being boil with rage. Momonga could not be trusted to guard his heart from them, then Pandora's Actor would gladly do so in his stead.

My father is too generous of the heart for his own good. I will be the mask and the cloak that will cover him from them.

AN: Time for me to peak back the curtain again for a bit. This chapter's base ideas have been bumping around in my head since before Forgemaster (really gotta get around to editing that) and I felt like this was a good time to finally write it out. The idea fit neatly into DoD, so I basically made this into a short addition for it into of like a three or four-part separate story.

Pandora's Actor to me as far as how his base personality is the drama that he enjoys infusing into everything he does as the surface and one of the core ideas he was created around. This base personality also tends imo to be blunter when it comes to others and using the fact that others don't take him seriously, he can use this to gather information while not being challenged.

Capturing Pandora's Actor's personality may have been the hardest part of writings this chapter.

It's something that I know at least a few of you were curious about and is in that way a thank you and apology for what I'm going to say next. This is awkward but I'm waffling on if I want to continue this story and how I want to continue it. Teatime will come out in a manner similar to previous chapters but after that I'm not sure how to proceed next as it was the last of the original outlines I had for this story.

I have several ideas, it's just that my muse for this story is kinda going out and part of me wants to move onto other projects. Leaving me with three options as far as I am concerned, an even longer hiatus, smaller installments of about 2-3k words, or infrequent updates when I don't have that spark.

In lighter tidings, this story has done the bulk of the work getting me over 100 reviews! Which is amazing to me. The quality of this story has been ok, not really good but decent in my opinion and I've enjoyed writing it and mostly am just very happy for all the support. Apologies to all who reviewed and were expecting me to respond, I'll put those in the next chapter.

Until next time which will actually be Teatime Blues

-InkBlotches37