Ch. 141Collecting the Reward
Chapter Summary: “Collecting the Reward”
Key Plot Points and Events
- Leinas questions Higashino Makoto about the owner of the mysterious tomb and the danger posed by its inhabitants. Makoto warns that the tomb’s master fiercely protects his subordinates, whom he treats as children, and will brutally torture anyone who invades.
- Makoto advises Leinas to use his name if she encounters an overwhelmingly powerful monster, though he refuses to help the Baharuth Empire if it provokes the tomb’s master. He will only try to limit the resulting damage.
- After their discussion, Makoto claims his “reward” from Leinas. The following day, she rests until noon, wears new clothing because her old outfit was destroyed, and shares a meal with Makoto and Illya.
- Before leaving, Leinas thanks Makoto for healing her face, answering her questions, and for what happened between them. She then returns to the imperial palace.
- Leinas reports everything to Emperor Jircniv, including the tomb’s immense threat and Makoto’s refusal to protect the Empire if it causes trouble.
- Jircniv concludes that the Empire must avoid provoking the tomb. He cancels its planned exploration operation and accepts that the Four Strategists’ withdrawal is beneficial, since their deaths would have created political complications.
- In private, Makoto explains to Illya that Leinas’s questions reminded him to warn Ainz that he considers humanity his responsibility. He wants to prevent Nazarick from damaging his “backyard” and creating unnecessary conflict.
Character Developments
- Higashino Makoto is shown as calm, confident, and fiercely protective of those under his care. Although he refuses to take responsibility for the Empire’s mistakes, he is willing to prevent excessive casualties. He also reveals a pragmatic desire to maintain peace with Ainz.
- Leinas demonstrates loyalty and professionalism by reporting Makoto’s words exactly. Her experience leaves her physically and emotionally affected, but she expresses genuine gratitude toward Makoto for healing her and treating her respectfully.
- Jircniv reacts with strategic caution rather than recklessness. He recognizes that the tomb represents a potentially civilization-ending threat and chooses non-interference as the only sensible policy, despite his private anxiety.
- Illya displays affection and possessiveness toward Makoto. She briefly becomes uneasy when he mentions a “brat,” but is reassured when he tells her she is a good girl.
Significant Themes
- The danger of unknown power: The tomb and its master represent a threat so overwhelming that even the Empire cannot afford to investigate carelessly.
- Responsibility and consequences: Makoto insists that those who create trouble must bear the consequences themselves, while Jircniv accepts that the Empire’s best strategy is restraint.
- Political pragmatism: Jircniv suppresses fear and chooses inaction, recognizing that military action or investigation would be suicidal.
- Protection and loyalty: Makoto’s treatment of his subordinates, Leinas’s obedience to the Emperor, and his concern for humanity all reflect different forms of loyalty and guardianship.
- Knowledge and uncertainty: Jircniv is disturbed by how much exists beyond his understanding, emphasizing the limits of human political power.
Character Interactions
- Makoto and Leinas: Their interrogation becomes a serious exchange about the tomb’s master, followed by a more intimate encounter. Leinas’s final thanks suggests complicated gratitude and a degree of emotional vulnerability.
- Leinas and Jircniv: She acts as a precise messenger, while Jircniv interprets Makoto’s warning and makes the political decision to cancel the tomb expedition.
- Makoto and Illya: Their moonlit conversation reveals Makoto’s plans to communicate with Ainz and Illya’s strong emotional attachment to him.