As Nazarick's influence spread through the ninja world, Alex knew there were certain bonds that could not be formed simply through manipulation or fear. Among his loyal guardians, none were as complex and dangerous as Shalltear Bloodfallen, the True Vampire of Nazarick. Her loyalty to him was unquestionable, but her volatile nature and thirst for destruction made her a force that required careful guidance.
Shalltear had always been fiercely loyal to Ainz Ooal Gown, the original incarnation. However, Alex had noticed that since his arrival, there was a subtle change in her behavior. She was still devoted, but there was a deeper intensity in her actions—a desire to prove herself, perhaps more so than the other guardians. In the coming conflicts, he needed her fully aligned with his vision, not just as a weapon but as a trusted and thinking ally.
One evening, after the latest meeting with the Uchiha and Senju leaders, Alex summoned Shalltear to his chambers. The room was bathed in low, magical light, casting long shadows across the walls, and the air was thick with the scent of incense. As always, Shalltear arrived promptly, her crimson eyes glinting in the dim light, her silver hair framing her delicate yet dangerous features.
"My lord, you called for me?" she asked, bowing deeply. Her voice was soft, almost playful, but there was an underlying tension in her posture.
Alex studied her for a moment before responding. "Shalltear, you have served Nazarick faithfully, but I can sense a restlessness in you. The battles we've fought have only been glimpses of the challenges to come. I need to know that you are ready for what lies ahead."
Shalltear lifted her head, her gaze locking onto his with an intensity that bordered on obsession. "My lord, I live to serve you. There is nothing in this world or the next that I wouldn't do for you. I am your sword, your shield—just give me the order, and I will destroy anyone who stands in your way."
Her words were spoken with fervor, but Alex wasn't convinced. He knew Shalltear's loyalty, but he needed to test her resolve, to ensure that she would follow his strategy rather than her own bloodlust. In the world of ninjas, where careful planning and patience were key, Shalltear's impulsiveness could become a liability if unchecked.
"You speak of destruction," Alex said, his voice calm but firm, "but destruction alone will not secure Nazarick's place in this world. There will be times when restraint and subtlety are more powerful than raw force. Can you temper your nature when needed, Shalltear?"
Shalltear blinked, her expression briefly faltering. It was rare for Alex to question her directly like this, and it unsettled her. "Of course, my lord," she said, though there was a flicker of uncertainty in her voice. "I can do whatever you command."
Alex stepped forward, closing the distance between them. He tilted her chin up gently, forcing her to meet his gaze. "I don't just need obedience, Shalltear. I need your understanding. There will be battles, yes, and you will have your fill of blood, but there will also be moments where patience and subtlety are required. Can you follow me on that path?"
Shalltear's breath hitched slightly, her pride and loyalty warring within her. For a long moment, she said nothing, and the silence in the room became almost oppressive. Finally, she spoke, her voice quieter now, more measured. "I... I understand, my lord. I live for your plans, for your will. If you command patience, then I will be patient."
Alex smiled faintly, satisfied with her answer. But before he could say more, Shalltear continued, her tone more vulnerable. "But my lord… am I not enough? Have I failed you in some way? Is that why you question me?"
Alex felt a pang of realization. Shalltear's need for validation ran deeper than he had anticipated. As one of the most powerful guardians of Nazarick, she took immense pride in her position, but she also sought constant approval from her master. This was not just about her loyalty—it was about her need to be recognized as irreplaceable in his eyes.
"You have not failed me, Shalltear," Alex said, his voice softening. "In fact, you are one of my most trusted allies. But we are entering a world unlike Nazarick—a world where our enemies are cunning and unpredictable. I ask these things of you not because I doubt you, but because I need you to be even more than what you are. The ninja world will challenge us in ways we cannot yet foresee, and I need you by my side, not just as a warrior but as someone who can understand and adapt."
Shalltear's eyes widened slightly, her devotion to him shining even brighter. "I will not disappoint you, my lord. I will be what you need me to be."
Alex nodded, releasing her chin. "Good. We will soon be engaging the ninja clans more directly. I want you to prepare yourself, both mentally and physically. There may come a time when your patience will be tested, but I promise you, the moment for battle will come. And when it does, you will lead the charge."
A smile spread across Shalltear's face, the thought of combat clearly stirring excitement within her. "I will be ready, my lord. When the time comes, I will show these ninja the true power of Nazarick."
Before leaving, Shalltear bowed deeply once more. As she exited the chamber, Alex watched her go, his thoughts swirling. He had solidified her loyalty, but more importantly, he had reminded her of the role she needed to play. Shalltear's destructive tendencies were a weapon—one that had to be wielded carefully, lest it backfire.
After Shalltear left, Albedo entered the room, her expression unreadable. She had clearly been waiting outside, listening to the conversation.
"Do you think she will obey your command, my lord?" Albedo asked, her tone filled with curiosity.
Alex smiled slightly. "Shalltear is loyal to a fault. She will obey. But I needed to remind her that there is more to this world than simple destruction. The ninja clans are watching us closely, and while fear is a powerful tool, we must also cultivate trust. Shalltear's loyalty will help ensure that."
Albedo nodded, though there was a glint of satisfaction in her eyes. "Of course, my lord. But should she falter, know that I am always ready to carry out your will."
Alex chuckled softly. "I know, Albedo. And you will have your chance. War is coming, and every guardian of Nazarick will play their part."
Albedo smiled, her devotion unwavering. "The ninja world will fall at your feet, my lord. And I will be there to witness your reign."
With Shalltear's loyalty reaffirmed and Albedo's ever-present support, Alex felt more confident than ever in his path. The pieces were falling into place, and soon, the ninja world would face the full might of Nazarick.
As Alex looked out over the darkened horizon, he knew that his grip on this world was tightening. The clans may not have realized it yet, but they were already caught in his web, and soon, they would all be his.