Love, love, love makes the world go around! And ships are part of what makes anime fun. It’s why I find a ship in every show I see, even when they aren’t overtly established! There’s just something so intriguing about seeing characters war with their feelings for the other. Even in shows like Overlord, you have hints of love. I mean, what is Albedo’s undying devotion to Ainz Ooal Gown?
Is there anything more satisfying than a good romance? The push and pull between the two characters and their bond, and the way love blossoms despite adversity, all of that make for an amazing watch. Even though romance is more of a mainstay for Shojo, that isn’t always the case.
For example, the ship we’ll be talking about today comes from an Isekai. And while Ainz x Albedo never become an established couple, it’s still so much fun to discuss. Just because it isn’t Shojo, doesn’t mean it can’t have a cute crush here and there. There have been plenty of couples from Shounen and Seinen titles that regularly top the ‘best couple’ lists.
Sure, ships might not be the main focus of something like, say, Naruto. But they are still an integral part of the plot, adding more depth to the normal action-heavy show. I think we all remember the ruthless ship wars of NaruSaku VS SasuSaku.
So today, we’ll be taking a look at another highly debated coupling for anime enthusiasts. This is the unrequited romance between Ainz Ooal Gown, a literal Overlord, and his guardian overseer, Albedo. Let’s see if a romance is in the books for them!
Albedo Is In Love With Ainz!
Albedo has long been known to be absolutely infatuated with Ainz from the very start. I mean, yes, it is Ainz’s fault that she is hopelessly in love with him, but the fact remains. Even if it was a joke, now he’s stuck with an ever-loyal succubus as his second in command. And that kind of jealous, possessive affection can be overwhelming.
Look, clearly Albedo is amazing. She’s assertive, and not afraid to voice her opinions if she disagrees with something. She’s also great at judgment-making and problem-solving, often tackling tasks with a calm mind and figuring out solutions even Ainz couldn’t think of. All in all, a pretty cool partner to have when you’re a leader.
However, her one weakness is Ainz. If anything happens to him, she loses her cool and descents into hysterics. Mortal danger or straight-up abandonment, she can’t imagine those scenarios with Ainz without becoming extremely emotional. That kind of obsessive love can take its toll on a person!
Do Ainz Reciprocate Albedo’s Feelings?
Sadly, he seems more exasperated by Albedo’s advances than anything. Even though he cherishes her as a friend and advisor, he has rarely ever shown that she means anything more than that. To Ainz, she is a character he programmed to be in love with him as a prank. He didn’t think he’d be stuck with that!
Before all of this, he was just a simple salary man enjoying a video game. Now, he has all these responsibilities on his shoulder, like having to take care of the inhabitants of the Tomb Of Nazarick and the Sorcery Kingdom. Ainz is already battling how calculated and cold he’s becoming by staying as an undead Overlord, so love isn’t going to be at the forefront. He’s cautious, vigilant, and tired of everything that’s going on.
It’s doubtful he has much time or patience for romantic side quests. Especially with someone like Albedo. Sure, he follows along with whatever whims and plans Albedo cooks up. But that doesn’t mean he returns her feelings.
While that kind of unconditional love could be good for someone like Ainz, who is perpetually paranoid about disappointing his followers, that isn’t always the case. If anything, this adds more pressure to his life. After all, he thinks she’s only doing this because he manipulated her. Which aren’t exactly healthy grounds for a relationship.
Will Albedo Marry Ainz?
Still, should the fans hold out any hope for some cute Albedo x Ainz scenes in the future of Overlord? Sadly, guys, I think this is one ship that sank before it ever got a chance to sail. There are just too many messy power dynamics between the two for it to ever work out.
It is canonically established that Albedo’s love for Ainz is not sincere, no matter how heartfelt Albedo feels about it. And Ainz can never get himself to look at her the same way, knowing he designed her to be this way.
Sorry Albedo fans, this love was not meant to be! Do you think Ainz and Albedo should get together? Let me know in the comment section below!
That chick gets with the nerdy pharmacist bud