Reincarnated as Itsuka Shido: Collecting Spirits as Lovers

White light consumed the arena as Shido’s attack struck the clustered undead, its brilliance was so intense that it nearly blinded the spectators. When the light finally faded, the arena was silent, and empty. Every undead had been completely erased, vanquished by Shido’s attack without leaving a single trace behind.

Shido stood alone at the center of the arena, the divine ring behind him rotating slowly as he lowered his hand, his silver hair swaying as the wind blew. Then, he turned his gaze toward spectators seat where Ainz and the Floor Guardians.

"Congratulations on defeating them all," Ainz said as he stood, his skeletal fingers tapping lightly on the railing. "You did it faster than I anticipated."

Shido’s last attack didn’t bring any damage to the arena but it had a dangerous property that can easily purify undead which was dangerous. Yet, rather than concern, Ainz felt satisfaction. Shido’s strength was clear, and it was strength that could become a powerful asset for Nazarick.

"So, did I pass your test?"

"Yes, but I changed my mind."

Ainz nodded, already satisfied with Shido’s power. However, he felt the opponents Shido had faced so far weren’t enough to truly test him. He decided to let Shido fight once more, this time against a much, much stronger opponent.

"What do you mean?"

Shido was a bit confused by the skeleton’s intentions. Even in the anime, most of Ainz’s actions were often misunderstood by his own subordinates.

As expected, someone stepped forward to explain Ainz’s non-existent plan.

"What Ainz-sama means is that while you did defeat all those undead, they were nothing more than a warm-up for you, correct? So, Ainz-sama wishes for you to fight someone truly strong. And if I’m not wrong, you will fight one of us, Floor Guardians."

Demiurge adjusted his glasses, speaking confidently as if his interpretation was exactly what Ainz had intended. He looked at Ainz hopefully, waiting for confirmation. The skeleton felt a moment of helplessness under that expectant gaze, but he nodded anyway.