Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken (LN) - Volume 16 Epilogue

Epilogue: Guy Crimson

He was born very far back in the ages, before the creation of heaven and earth.

His birth was a mere coincidence.

The seven original angels were created by Veldanava, the God of creation, out of the Divine Spirit of

“light”, and the people who were their shadows were born.

Those were the original seven primordials, the demon kings, which were born out of the Great Spirit of

“darkness”.

He is the original primordial that ruled the dark world, representing the roots—the underworld.

Since his birth, he had been an absolute powerhouse, the embodiment of darkness.

An arrogant king, leading the demon race as he pleased.

Even the other primordial who belonged to the same darkness were, in his view, only equal to the many dependents.

Once in a bid for supremacy, when two of the primordials teamed up to challenge him, he subdued the two to the ground without a second thought.

These things seemed to him no more than child’s play, but at the time he understood one thing.

That is, the “primordials” were indestructible. However, if the nucleus of the heart is crushed, they will be resurrected in the form of becoming a subordinate of the victor.

As spiritual beings, they are subordinate to each other once defeated.

When this fact was revealed, the remaining four primordials fell into a state of deadlock.

Nope.

One particular primordial troubled him, but even this, because he had been summoned to the earth, parted from his fate.

Was it a coincidence that he was summoned to the ground…

There is no way to confirm it now.

But it is a fact that his fate was thus greatly altered.

Having been summoned, he looked around.

He who lived peacefully in the Underworld had nothing to do with the time flowing on the earth.

What was thought to be a newly formed world has given birth to civilization.

He realized in an instant that he had been summoned.

That is, by the power that can rewrite even the laws of the world—magic.

The power originally possessed in the Underworld had come to be limited here, and now he could only exert the level of power of a mere new Upper Demon General. Even then, in his opinion, it was enough, but it was just inconvenient to not have a physical body.

He thought about why this was so and immediately understood.

This was a semi-material world, not part of the realm of activity of spiritual beings, and in a space that was not filled with magical elements, just staying here would consume a lot.

He, who has nothing to do with the God of creation, cannot understand how the world has changed.

It’s really funny, he thought.

However, the loud and noisy guy in front of him made him feel a little uncomfortable.

In front of him, the strongest of the Underworld, no one dared to do such reckless and stupid things.

It was also because of this that he was slightly in the mood to deal with this summoner.

The wizard who had summoned him out spoke in a particularly remarkable tone.

It was the original language, and the language of magic, so it didn’t take much effort for him to understand.

Patiently listening to the conversation across the room, he discovered something very interesting.

There are nations in this world competing with each other for supremacy.

Elves, dwarves, beastmen, vampires, and humans, all sorts of races seem to be competing for survival.

The wizard was truly a human. A high human?

“You have become my servant. Follow my orders in accordance with the principles of the world.”

The man said arrogantly.

In order to unify the world and eliminate the rivals vying for supremacy, this country called the Super Magic Empire gave the order.

It was a very simple thing for him to do.

The war, which had lasted for a hundred years, came to an end with his appearance.

All he did was use one spell.

It was a forbidden magic—nuclear strike magic: the blessing of death.

With the power of mass destruction magic that can even destroy “souls,” the largest nation with a population of over a million became the capital of death.

They were all taken for granted and irrelevant to him.

But there was an interesting change.

After acquiring a large number of human “souls,” he perceived that he was awakening, and as a result, he successfully completed the fleshing with millions of corpses.

The sleepiness he experienced for the first time made him feel comfortable, and it was a pleasure to fight it.

This was the birth of the world’s first “true demon lord”.

After gaining the power, he realized that he had broken free from the magic that bound him.

It would have been easy to break the spell, but it would have been too much of a bummer to just pop it off without doing anything.

It seems that his awakening began when he harvested the “souls” of 10,000 humans and the restrictions of the race were lifted and he evolved into a demon lord.

Even so, it didn’t reach a fraction of his strength when he was in the Underworld, but it was enough to make him an unmatched presence on earth.

What would happen if more “souls” were collected? He wondered with interest.

There were some who were just the right people to experiment with.

Those who threw all the chores at him should return the favor accordingly.

Returning to the original city, one by one, killing those who appeared in sight. The mass destruction magic was unused in order to avoid involving the targeted man.

At this point, I felt the cries of those who were going to die engraved on the “soul”.

Giiyaa!

Screams like this.

Hearing this, he suddenly thought.

Yes, perhaps that is my “name.”

That’s it.

The changes are dramatic.

He, Guy, had evolved again.

Becoming a demon lord regained all the power he had when he was in the Underworld.

The acquired “souls” gave Guy power.

The maximized vessel was filled to the brim, fully restoring his mana amount.

But the changes stopped there.

Any further action by Guy would have lost its meaning.

He summoned the two primordials that follow him and gives the order.

Quickly wipe out the Super-Magic Empire from the ground.

Guy also gained a name by becoming an Awakened Demon Lord, so his mood became very generous.

The insignificant wizard wasn’t even worth his trouble to torment, and was even wiped from his memory.

“How, how!? How did you escape from my secret arts…!?”

There was a fool who barked like that, but Guy’s consciousness didn’t pay any attention to that, and it was lucky for the wizard that he was killed by the demons without understanding anything.

On that day tens of thousands of years ago, the largest nation in the history of mankind, caught in a divisive struggle, was wiped out in this very simple manner.

The two primordials that Guy had summoned were also degraded into upper demon general level.

That’s the law of this world, transitioning from the underworld to the semi-material world would make one lose most of its power.

Just crossing different realms was a breeze for spiritual beings, but staying in this world, just maintaining existence, consumed a lot.

That’s why a body is needed.

It is through fleshly evolution that one begins to be able to settle down in this world.

Understanding this, Guy waited for the evolution of his followers.

However, no matter how many human “souls” are gathered, the two primordials have not evolved.

So he gave them the honor of the corpses, the flesh.

It’s this thing that can serve as evidence that Guy is in a good mood.

Those two primordials are, the original green and the original blue.

Their human form is a beautiful woman.

Looking at the women kneeling in front of him, Guy suddenly thought.

There is no point in even receiving flesh if there is no way to further strengthen them.

Just chores could be given to them, but their power was too fragile.

So Guy graciously bestowed them names.

Thinking about the name evolution he got, he thought the two primordials would evolve similarly.

“Let your name be given to you. You who belong to me are too weak for my dignity to allow.”

Guy so declared.

To the Green Primordial, ‘Mizari’ was selected from the cries of grief the mourner had given to her.

To Blue Primordial, he gave her the name “Rhein” because of the rain on that day.

As Guy had thought, they evolved into demon lords.

That’s the beginning.

This is what happened the day Guy first left footprints in human history.

***

The happy and uneventful days went on.

Guy usually takes pleasure in wandering around.

The occasional annoyance didn’t bother Guy.

Mizari and Rhein are always around to take care of Guy’s daily routine.

“You two, can’t you live as you please?”

Guy told them so, but their answers never changed.

“No, my mission is to serve Lord Guy.”

“That’s right. You are the king and we are the subjects. This is the eternal truth.”

And just like that, the trip of the three continued.

Meanwhile, Mizari and Rhein summoned their own dependents and quietly built up a sphere of influence.

To provide all the riches and pleasures of this world to the dominant Guy.

Unlike in the past, when life in the underworld was all about fighting and spending time refining the intensity of ones “soul” for themselves, this world is full of excitement.

There’s no stagnation, and they are always evolving.

Cooking, music, acting, dancing, fine arts, and all sorts of other things that keep Guy’s and their interests endless.

“Hey, hey, isn’t this fun too?”

The dancing Guy, who was attending the festivities in the minority colony, smiled at the girls.

Faced with the rare smile of their hosts, Mizari and Rhein’s glee reached their peak.

“It’s great. I thought human beings who are fragile and worthless, but there is something useful.”

“Everything in this world is Lord Guy’s property. Tools are meaningful if they are used skillfully.”

In this way, they have changed the perception of humanity.

Mizari and Rhein learned a variety of skills on the trip to keep Guy happy. Using the experience of time, cooking and laundry, singing and dancing, and even playing musical instruments, these are the foundations of being a maid of honor.

It’s also a growth.

In the Underworld, the weak are eliminated. Races other than the Demon Race are banished, and only slaves who can find exploitation value can be enlisted.

But in this world, the weak also have some value.

Understanding this, one would think it would be a pity to destroy this world.

Guy put it this way.

“It’s so cute, a human being. It’s stupid, but not obnoxious.”

There are stupid people, and there are excellent people.

Ugly emotions are disgusting, beautiful emotions are delicious—and the best food for Guy and them.

In Guy’s view, there are too many individual differences in the creature known as a “human” to make a generalization about them.

The Guy of this period was very gentle with humans.

The actions of the evil sorcerers, who banished the horrible magical beasts that threatened villages everywhere, and eliminated the suspected survivors of the Super-Magical Empire, were praised and passed on to the later generations, becoming myths and legends.

And then he met…

The Creator of this world, the Supreme and Most Powerful Being.

Guy, who enjoyed the calm days, was still always keenly aware.

So it was immediately obvious.

It was the Star King Dragon, Veldanava, who created this world.

“If you are the true God, show me your power!”

Guy smiled fearlessly.

Not in the slightest doubt that he was the strongest, he rightfully challenged Veldanava.

The result is a defeat.

Guy just sank to the ground, completely unable to mount any more strikes.

His great pride, which he never doubted, was shattered at this point.

Following the law that failure is subordination to the other side, Guy should have become an attendant of Veldanava.

However, Guy’s pride prevented him from doing so.

“Kill me. I am content. I understand that there are people outside of people and mountains outside of mountains. My existence, indeed, is included in that endless and continuous theory. O great being, I am proud to have lost to you.”

The defeated Guy said proudly.

Veldanava laughed bitterly.

“Little one, I love these existences that I have created, and the world that used to be boring is becoming more and more colorful and full of wisdom as people are born and evolve to be able to communicate with me. Now, there are even strong men like you who can withstand fighting with me.”

“Ha, that’s nice to say! My attacks didn’t hit once, and you just attacked once and this is how I’ve become.”

“Oh, but didn’t you still take it? No one could have challenged me, but you did. Just that alone makes me very happy.”

“Let’s call it that.”

“Well, that’s it. And there’s something I’d like to ask you.”

“Ask me?:

A euphoric sense of satisfaction filled Guy’s heart.

That is why he listened to what Veldanava said.

“Ahhh, if this rate of growth continues, the world will be destroyed in a few thousand years. Because humans are creatures who make mistakes, right actions are not righteous, and sometimes evil actions will save the world. But it’s this imperfection that makes it so lovely… If the world is going to end, it’s not my intention.”

To help keep the world from falling apart, Veldanava said so.

Guy thought back to the super-magical empire that had been wiped out in the past.

Seduced by the lust for dominance and power, the scandal of kin fighting each other.

Well certainly, that was indeed ugly. If left unchecked, maybe the world will end.

Although Guy understood it that way, he still had a doubt.

“Mmm. That preconception is the same as mine, but a bit incomprehensible.”

“What is it?”

“Aren’t you the Creator? As the God who created us should be able to lead the world to its desired outcome. What need is there to rely on me?”

“Hahahaha, that’s because I’m not omniscient and omnipotent. At the time of birth, there was only my own consciousness, which was complete and lacking nothing. The whole thing, the whole one—that is to say, there’s only me in the world, isn’t that boring?”

I see, Guy thought.

He understood.

That is to say, Veldanava, by his own will, gave up the “omniscience and omnipotence.”

Indeed, it would be boring to see all the results.

In comparison to one’s own experience, it’s also boring to just win and not lose.

In the Underworld, everyone except for one person was afraid of Guy.

The demons that dared to challenge Guy hadn’t been around for a long time.

It is not impossible that God would give up “omniscience and omnipotence” when even a Guy who is no better than Veldanava is like that.

“I don’t hate this world, so let me help you.”

There’s nothing to hesitate about.

Guy also loves this world.

Unrelated to subordination, Guy was genuinely trying to help.

Veldanava nodded happily.

“Thank you. I want you to be my agent, as a “mediator” to watch over the world.”

“Huh? An agent? Is it okay not to give me an order?”

“Of course. I told you, didn’t I? Whatever happens, it’s not meant to be forced.”

“Yeah, well, what should I do?”

“Go on and wander the world as before, and establish a stronghold as king. Anything to keep humans from becoming prideful, anything to tell them there’s a threat to the world.”

Pride.

Hearing that word, Guy felt really suited to his role.

“Yeah. In that case, I will come to earth as the “demon lord” that mankind fears. If there are ‘absolute enemies,’ there will be no time for humans to fight each other.”

“It’s funny, that’s it! Well, it’ll make you play a nasty character, so be it.”

“Leave it to me.”

Just then.

Guy’s heart form became concrete and gained the unique skill ‘Prideful One’.

Guy declared.

“I will be the Demon Lord of this world, and if men become prideful, I will judge them for you.”

Guy’s mind became more profound because of the crushing glory.

This led to the birth of the Demon Lord, who had the power to rival the gods.

Veldanava smiled.

“You’re so reliable. Let’s do our best together, my friend!”

“Ahhh, let me enjoy myself.”

In this way, Guy and Veldanava recognized each other and crossed the barriers of position to become equal friends.

***

As promised, Guy began to live his life as a demon lord.

In an effort to relieve boredom, the large villages that sprang up everywhere were monitored and soon became villages, which in turn gathered together and grew into a nation.

Although it seems a bit crude compared to the super-civilization of the past, the magic and technology that was quietly inherited has been reproduced at a fairly fast pace.

It’s interesting to watch humans operate.

Unknowingly several countries were born, and small-scale skirmishes began again…

Shouldn’t have done it – Guy doesn’t like to be bothered and practices activism.

As a warning, he wiped out the country he had his eye on.

The people feared the threat that was visible to the naked eye—the demon lord Guy.

In response to such a threat, a heart of unity began to be cultivated.

That’s good, as long as they don’t touch my scales, I won’t destroy you.

As a “mediator”, Guy is quite content with his job.

Just as Guy was getting busy, Mizari and Rhein drove the troops to bring a large force into domination, crushing the local gods, evil spirits, and monsters, gradually raising awareness.

Mizari even infiltrates human society and conducts espionage as a means of obtaining information for detailed investigation and picking out those who need to be purged.

The aim is to create a sense of tension in human society by giving a moderate amount of terror.

The “Demon Lord” was established as a system.

In this way, Guy had nothing special to do.

Just wandering the world and enjoying the battles at will.

Even the legions of giants, who could make even Veldanava’s entourage, the Seven Seraphims, difficult to deal with, were ravaged and subdued on their own.

It was also a pleasure to receive the commission from Veldanava to fight with the Dragon Ivaraj, whose instinct to fight was very strong, much to Guy’s satisfaction.

Only, there were problems.

His strength was too comparable, and the battle lasted for three months. Moreover, he eventually escaped to another world.

And because of this great battle of Guy’s rampage, the earth became barren and a vast wilderness.

Next time he wanted to get serious, it was necessary to consider the location—Guy learned a very useful lesson.

Guy looked out at the continent from the sky.

Then he found a castle to be used to make an impression.

It was the place where Guy had been summoned to this world—the Imperial City of the Super-Magic Empire.

Sensing that it was some kind of destiny, Guy decided to make it his castle.

Rhein quickly summoned her men, improved the living environment, used magic, and the castle was rebuilt in no time.

Just then.

A white dragon challenged Guy.

It was a beautiful dragon with a pair of deep sea-colored eyes.

He didn’t know what she misunderstood, but the moment she opened her mouth it was a quarrel.

“I don’t approve of you even if brother approves!”

After saying that, she charged at Guy in a furious manner.

His previous lesson had made Guy understand that one had to choose the place to fight based on the strength of the opponent, but this dragon had blown ice and snow directly from above the castle.

There’s no time to think about destruction now.

The survivors had long since been evacuated and the castle would have to be rebuilt again, and while it might be hard for Rhein and her minions, it didn’t matter to Guy.

Guy was in a state of displeasure ever since Dragon Ivaraj had escaped, so his mood was high with the appearance of a new enemy.

Enjoying it all the way, Guy took it seriously and made opponents with her.

But…

Even though they gave it their all, they couldn’t decide who was winning or losing.

The dragon is the sister of the Star King Dragon, Veldanava. The eldest daughter of the True Dragon Race, White Ice Dragon Velzado.

The amount of mana she possessed was second only to Veldanava’s, and even Guy couldn’t knock her down.

But according to Velzado, it’s Guy who is the anomaly.

After all, Guy only had a unique skill, and in the opinion of Veldanava, who had transferred the ultimate skill ‘Patience King Gabriel’ to Velzado, a draw was definitely not possible.

“Why is it that you’re an even match for me even though you only have a unique skill?”

“Hah! That’s because, I’m strong.”

“Don’t be ridiculous! My brother gave me this power, not you. That’s proof that I’ve been acknowledged as more useful than you!”

“That’s not quite right. He said he would give me strength, but I refused. I’d accept it if I chose to work under him, but I’m in a reciprocal relationship with the guy, so I—”

In order to gain her brother’s approval, Velzado had challenged Guy with jealousy.

And it was right there in front of her that Guy demonstrated the evolution of his power.

The opportunity was given because of seeing the power of Veldanava. And also now, by fighting with Velzado, he saw the capacity of what the ultimate skill is like to exist.

“I’m going to go to the top of the world in my own strength.”

And at that moment.

The unique skill “Prideful One” had evolved into the ultimate skill “Pride King Lucifer”.

Velzado was speechless at the sight.

“Then I’ll keep watching to see how far you go with it.”

Velzado’s real purpose seemed to be to test Guy, and it wasn’t clear if he passed or not. In short, the two had been moving forward together ever since.

That was how Guy and Velzado met.

After three days and three nights of fighting, even the earth’s axis had changed.

But this time, Guy had done a wonderful job, and the permafrost, which had been uninhabited until now, had been turned into evergreen earth. In its place, the continent designated as a stronghold by Guy had become uninhabitable frozen earth.

“I think that’s as far as it goes.”

“That’s great, it’s Guy-sama!”

“There should be no problem. Mankind has suffered some losses, but the nations have responded to the changes in the heavens and the earth in unison, and sacrifices have been kept to a minimum.”

To the occupants, it was a catastrophe, but to Guy it was nothing more than a laughing matter.

For Rhein and Mizari, as long as Guy was happy, they were content.

Guy’s castle had instead become more beautiful due to the fallout from this battle, which was covered in ice.

“It’s good. As a memento, let’s keep it that way.”

“Then I’ll take care of it. I’ll help you with that little matter.”

It was easy to assist. Because of the demon qi leaking from Velzado, the temperature around the area dropped to the limit, and from then on, the castle became too frigid for it to be invaded by the weak.

Since she has to live in the castle, Velzado’s dragon form is an inconvenience.

When Guy pointed this out, Velzado assumed a human appearance.

If Velzado had maintained an adult form, she would have controlled her demon aura perfectly, but instead she chose to maintain a slightly younger form. This way, the leaking demon qi would turn cold and the castle’s defense would be perfect.

Many magical creatures, not to mention humans, cannot survive these frigid conditions, so there is absolutely no one to attack…

“How about this?”

“Yes, it’s not bad, but it’s not my interest.”

“Really! You’ve got a bad heart.”

Velzado, though she complained about it outwardly, was actually very fond of Guy in her heart.

Whispering in her heart, she vowed to one day use her charm to make Guy turn to her.

***

Another few hundred years passed.

The days without wind or waves went on and on, but one day was different than usual.

The bored and unbearable Guy, had a visitor.

It was a small team of three.

They breezed into the harsh cold where no one could enter.

Guy was interested, watching them closely.

At this point, the blonde youth standing at the front shouted.

“This is Rudra, the prince of the Nazca kingdom. The “hero” who carries the hopes of the people—

Rudra Nazca! You evil demon lord, I’ll use my sword to destroy you! By the way, give me all the treasures of your legendary collection!”

This declaration doesn’t sound at all like something a nobleman would say.

But this unabashed desire satisfied Guy.

“Brother Rudra, I can’t tell who’s in the wrong between you and the Demon Lord when you’re being like this!”

“Yeah, Rudra’s not good enough. He’s already overwhelmed by greed. If he wants money, I can just earn it for him.

“Really! Sister-in-law, please don’t pamper Brother Rudra. If this continues, he will surely suffer the consequences of his failure.”

In front of Guy, the three were still chatting like this.

Is this bravery, or is it stupidity?

Only one thing is certain.

For them to be able to stand in front of Guy would mean beating Mizari and Rhein.

This suggests that this ridiculous trio possesses a considerable level of strength.

And, Guy found that one of the three had the same presence as his friend, his partner, and for that very reason he was not prepared to blame Mizari and Rhein for their failure.

This, like the laws of nature, was only the expected ending.

What’s more important now is…

“Hero? What’s that?

Those words, when he heard for the first time, sounded very sweet.

That word gave Guy the feeling that his boredom would be blown away.

Guy was happy to confront the youth who called himself Rudra.

“Funny. The power of the Hero—let’s see what it’s like!”

So Guy accepted the challenge of the youth, Rudra.

“Hmph! I’m the strongest and don’t need help at all. Demon, let’s go one on one!”

Rudra was handsome, but that smile he had now was slightly nasty.

His purpose was less to defeat Guy and more to seize Guy’s treasure.

But Guy thinks that’s what makes him truly human.

Without desire, people do not work.

Because they want a better life, they work hard.

Rudra is a solid human being.

A man with the type of sweet emotions that Guy loves.

“Hah! Try hard to resist!”

And the battle began.

Guy watched as Rudra approached.

Although this blow was sharp and swift, it was not a serious blow, and the fact that he was using himself as an opponent to make a trial was irritating to Guy.

Rudra wore a finely crafted full-body magical armor.

It felt like something that was quite expensive, so Guy decided to break it first.

Seems like he’s pretty money hungry and should hate having his stuff broken.

In any case, he’ll make it difficult on purpose.

After dodging Rudra’s sword with ease, a knee strike—actually a feint, really a cross kick—is thrown.

Rudra was just in time to avoid the attack, but failed to deal with the change and was completely kicked in the right direction, resulting in shattered armor.

“Ahhhhhh!! Armor worth a year’s worth of the national budget…!”

“Are you all right, brother?”

“Rudra is such a fool. If we all went together in the first place, the armor wouldn’t have broken.”

“Shut up! This—this is a necessary expense!”

Rudra became teary-eyed, and Guy felt a sly smile that had a better effect than he had imagined.

Next, I’ll break his sword, so he’ll cry.

Guy observes the three of them while thinking so.

But then.

“Brother! At least use support magic—Holy Blade Unleashed!”

The girl with the golden cherry blossom (platinum pink) hair, who he had initially thought was the most harmless, exercised a ridiculous magic.

The sword Rudra was holding began to glow.

It was a jaw-dropping divine aura that destroyed the evil breaking light.

This is not good. That light, it seems, has enough power to cut through my “barrier.”

He should have been stopped before it was launched, but Guy was enjoying the fight. In that case, it was less interesting to get in the way.

“Well, If I just think of it as my sister giving cheering me on, then it’s acceptable—but Lucia, stay out of this!

Rudra is more focused on results than glory.

Even with the help of his sister, he accepts it completely unashamedly.

This guy, what a character.

While not yet in crisis, the situation has certainly worsened.

Despite this, Guy was somehow happier.

“It’s not a problem at all, so why don’t you two fight together?”

“You’re not ashamed to say that? I’m going to be serious now, prepare yourself!

Rudra frankly confessed, as he had said, that he did indeed hide his strength, and now he raised his sword speed to force his way towards Guy.

Guy had expected that.

That’s why he was so happy, he snickered and picked up his sword, the “Heavenly Demon”.

“Ah! How shameless of him to use a weapon!”

“Ah? I don’t know about your values, but I’d like to praise you for making me draw my sword.”

In fact, Rudra was so skilled with the sword, that even Guy could get hurt whenever he touched it. sing the sword was a matter of course.

Guy is self-respecting and pridefuul, but has no interest in showing mercy that leads to failure.

“Ha! Even if the Demon Lord compliments me, I won’t be happy!”

“Well, then, let’s just say there’s no praise.”

“…wait, you can still stay it.”

Rudra was actually very happy to be commended.

“I can count on one hand the number of people who can draw a sword and fight with me. Is your name Rudra? I’ll remembere your name, so you can be proud.”

Because Guy was in a good mood, he responded to Rudra’s request.

Rudra listened, smiling happily and telling Guy.

You’re pretty good, too. I didn’t expect the Demon Lord to catch this sword, which is a sword of evil.

As a reward for being remembered, before I destroy you, I’ll hear your name too.

“Just a human being, but so arrogant. But I like you, so I’ll tell you. If you ever go to the underworld, just say my name. I’m Guy, because any man in front of me will scream Giiyaa! so it’ll be my name.”

Hearing Guy’s answer, Rudra froze, then reverted to his usual expression and called out in panic.

“…Wait a minute! That’s not a name! How is that a name? If I defeat such a st rangy named Demon Lord, it wouldn’t look good. It’s better to write down the story of my bravery with a more handsome name!”

“Ahn? The name doesn’t matter!”

“How can it not matter!? Okay I got it, wait a minute, the fight is on hold. I’ll think of a better name for you first.”

Rudra spoke up and stopped fighting without permission.

Guy didn’t have a reason to do as he was told, but there was no need to wipe out a rare fun time with a sneak attack. He wanted to have some fun himself anyway, so he accepted Rudra’s offer.

Besides, I’m somewhat interested.

Rudra and his entourage formed in a circle and began to discuss.

“That guy’s hair is pretty red…”

“Wait a minute, speaking of crimson, that’s like me, yet it doesn’t look like it, right?”

“I know! It’s strange that your hair is blue.”

“That’s not what you called me.”

“Oh, oh, oh, I remember.”

“You don’t understand women’s hearts. You’ll just be abandoned by Sister-in-law, won’t you?”

“Huh? no way!”

“Hoo-hoo, it’s okay, Rudra. I will never abandon you.”

“Right? Then I won’t worry. Anyway, that guy’s another red…a real ‘crimson!’ So, is that all right?”

“Well, I think so.”

“I don’t have a problem with that either, but is this okay? People might be upset that you actually named the Demon Lord and have such a close relationship, right?”

“It’s okay! No one will see it anyway. As long as we don’t say anything, it won’t get out!”

It wasn’t supposed to be Guy’s turn to interject, but the young man Rudra’s character was truly sloppy.

Guy, who was listening to their conversation, was worried about Rudra.

“Are we done?”

“Oh, long time no see! As of today, your name will be Guy Crimson!”

The moment the name was said, Rudra went unconscious. It is obviously taboo to name a magical creature, but Rudra is capricious in that he judged the other party to be a demon lord so it would be fine.

This is the result.

Rudra didn’t consume magical essence, and as a substitute, what was consumed was a great deal of divine power, and his small life hovered on the line of life and death.

After waking up, Rudra is faced with wrath of his sister Lucia, and lover Scorch Dragon Velgrynd.He feel’s as if he’s been given another life.

And so it was that the showdown between Rudra and Guy passed…At that time, a strange connection between Guy and Rudra was born.

***

He waited for Rudra to recover and resume the duel as promised.

However, the outcome could not be decided.

Thus, after this, Guy and Rudra dueled many more times.

Worthy of being the self-proclaimed hero, Rudra was strong.

Rudra the Awakened Hero, and Guy the Awakened Demon Lord.

The technically brilliant Rudra, and the Guy who fights with power and talent.

Although it’s difficult to win or lose when you’re evenly matched, it’s only natural that Guy would gradually gain the upper hand.

There were three women, staring blankly at the battle between the two males.

Lucia and Velgrynd, and Velzado “The White Ice Dragon”.

At first Velzado was not very interested, but as the duels became more and more heated, she gradually became interested in watching them.

“Geez, Guy seems to be getting stronger again.”

“Yes, sister, but Rudra isn’t behind either.”

“Yeah, it makes you wonder if he’s human or not.”

“I’m sure. He’s strong. Of course, Rudra is a disciple of elder brother, and has been given the ultimate skill, and will get stronger.”

“Oh? That makes sense. Then I’m convinced.”

“For me, it’s best if no one gets hurt…”

Like this, there was great harmony among the onlookers.

“The tea is ready.”

“The winner will be decided soon, so Lord Guy and Lord Rudra’s share is ready.”

Mizari and Rhein are in charge of serving everyone.

It wasn’t clear when this had become a daily thing.

On another day, there was a quarrel between sisters that even made one forget about the duel.

Velzado was on good terms with Velgrynd, but occasionally disagreed about the direction of education.

Their newly born brother, Veldora, the Storm Dragon, seems to be very capricious and goes around uncontrollably.

As for the reason for the march…

“Sister is too strict! Why can’t he be pampered more?”

“What are you talking about? I value little Veldora and dote on him! To make him more mature and stable, I’ve had to clean him up a few times.”

The phrase ‘clean him up’ by Velzado is a ridiculous method of physical removing Veldora and forcing reincarnation.

Velgrynd didn’t like that.

“I’m saying that you are wrong about this! Do not use violence, and use words to teach him. I can’t help it if I can’t control the situation, so this is the way to make the kid understand us better.”

“Really! As always, the little Velgrynd is too mild. In that case, why don’t we just beat him half to death from now on so he can become more knowledgeable?”

“Not that! I mean, caress him more gently, teach him hand on hand how to live in the city in human form, and how to fight.”

“Little Velgrynd…I think it’s better to say you’re too spoiled rather tan sweet. This practice will spoil the child too much and make him a loser, and if this continues, the young man named Rudra will become a loser too.”

“No way! Rudra is my best partner. Therefore, as long as I educate Veldora, he will grow into a good brother who knows how to respect his sister, so leave it to me this time.”

“Hey, no, I can’t do that. I can educate him better. Instead, I should have been doing it all along.”

“Don’t be ridiculous! You’re saying it’s too much for me, aren’t you? This time it’s my turn!”

On one side, Velzado was too harsh, and on the other, Velgrynd was too soft, so they shifted blame on each other.

Guy didn’t think either side was doing too well.

Relaxation is the best. The Dragon sisters don’t even understand the word “relaxation.”

The unspoken, dumbfounded Guy.

“Hey, hey, that’s not our duel.”

“Well, it’s better not to get involved with the girls who are fighting for Veldora.”

Guy and Rudra, fled for refuge to stay out of it.

When Guy and Rudra dueled, Velzado and the girls would come to maintain the ‘barriers’, and when they quarreled, Guy and them would have to maintain the barriers themselves.

If not, the continent would sink.

Even though they were used to it, Guy and Rudra still wanted to fight where they didn’t get themselves into trouble.

“The man who looks into the mirror can see what is good and what is bad”—it should be said that Guy was treating them as if they had nothing to do with him.”

But one day.

“Damn it, you’re doing it again!”

“Shut up! The duel will not end until my lord wins!”

Nowadays, a duel between two people is as usual as a greeting.

The battle began as usual and ended when the pair were exhausted.

Because it’s always a draw, as is customary, the bickering starts again…

“You’re a dirty man who talks about being a good man, but you’re a dirty man!”

Like Guy said, Rudra was dirty.

Take for granted the nasty trick of using the sand puzzler’s eye.

It’s not unusual to set up the “Holy Barrier” to reduce Guy’s power to an abnormal state at the moment you start a duel.

Guy would not identify any traps until the duel began, and it was this character of Guy’s that Rudra saw through to exploit.

Also, the words that come out of his mouth are outrageous.

“As long as it’s won, it’s justice! Nope, as long as it doesn’t win, it’s not righteous! Therefore, I will win no matter what!”

In any form, just win, Rudra boasted thus.

“You’re kidding! I don’t care if you do, but at least don’t say it out loud!”

What Guy says is quite reasonable.

However, Rudra snickered in response.

“Are you kidding me? You’re the one who’s kidding! Isn’t that the same trick you used just now that I used before? How many years do you think it took me to learn that trick?”

Secret technique to change the subject.

Avoiding accountability by subtly deflecting the topic like this is one of Rudra’s must-kill techniques.

Rudra had always been educated by the kings and so excelled at such ingenious speaking skills.

“Remember it was three weeks?”

“Yes, even Lord Veldanava complimented him.”

The outsider’s conversation came over, and Guy couldn’t help but froze at what he said. It seemed that he had learned the difficult technique quite easily.”

Guy squinted his eyes at Rudra and sighed heavily.

It is you who is despicable for stealing other people’s tricks—Rudra keeps saying this, actually for a reason.

This was due to Rudra’s anxiety.

SHis ability is still good, but recently he’s been feeling a bit squeezed down lately. This was something Rudra felt more clearly than anyone else, and he felt in his heart that it would not be good if this continued.

I would have done the same if I had fought in a straightforward manner and won!

Rudra was tempted to say it out loud.

What I said at first seems to have nothing to do with me now, and the status quo is that we have to use all means to win.

Although Guy was a bit speechless, Rudra’s mood was actually apparent in his eyes, and in Guy’s mind, he even found it very enjoyable to quarrel with Rudra.

So no matter what tactics Rudra used, Guy would tolerate it.

It’s also because Guy subscribes to Rudra’s belief that just winning is justice.

Long before that, Guy had identified with Rudra.

Just the mere fact that someone could duel with him without discrimination made Guy happy.

And…

As Rudra said, the more you fight, the stronger you get. It’s not just about acquiring the ultimate skill, it’s about being skilled enough to use it to its true value.

Guy learned this by fighting Rudra.

Now he was using the sword to fight with Rudra, and even then Guy was beginning to gain the upper hand, and on that basis there was no doubt that Guy could win with skill and magic.

Yet Guy did not do so.

Not knowing when, he became expecting the duel to end in a tie.

It was for this reason that Guy welcomed Rudra’s little gimmick.

But nowadays, even that is only a matter of time.

Thus, Guy asked out of the mouth.

“Hey…why didn’t you guys kill me in the first place? Why didn’t you decide not to name me at that time, and instead make a serious attempt to strike me down. Then it would have been possible for you to win too, right?”

This is exactly the point of puzzlement that Guy couldn’t understand.

Guy is self-respecting and prideful, and usually would never agree that there is a possibility of losing, and for a spiritual being, agreement is tantamount to losing.

So all this time, Guy didn’t want to think about it.

He didn’t think he was being sympathetically discharged, nor did he want to be.

Guy has the ‘King of Pride’ and Rudra has the ‘King of Justice’. If Rudra doesn’t skimp on using the power to attack at full strength in the first place, it’s not clear where the win or loss goes to.

To the earnestly inquiring Guy, Rudra smiled and said, “Oh, that’s it.”

“You’re such an idiot, there’s no point in beating you! You have to recognize my greatness and become a companion!”

“Huh?”

Unable to understand, Guy couldn’t help but ask rhetorically.

“I am the man who will conquer the world one day. This was my pact with the Star Dragon, Veldanava, who was also my mentor and friend.”

Guy knew that Rudra was a disciple of Veldanava, himself, and he had not the slightest doubt about it.

But he hadn’t really expected that Rudra would have ambitions to conquer the world.

“I say, from Veldanava, it’s my job to stop fools like you from conquering the world.”

“I know. It is for this reason that Veldanava made me find a way to get your approval.

Hearing that, Guy thought to himself.

Veldanava, he’s in trouble, so he pushed it on me.

That’s the answer.

Tell him what is reality—Guy seemed to hear Veldanava speak so.

Rudra, who boasts of showing off with Guy, came here after being wiped out by Veldanava In fact, Guy was already in the middle of Veldanava’s ploy as well.

Guy had no choice to to stay with him until he realized he liked Rudra.

It’s more of a story, because if he didn’t like him, he would have killed him from the start.

Yeah this guy is a real jerk.

To Guy, who was thinking in a good mood, Rudra spoke up.

“Well, the truth is… I couldn’t control the King of Justice with all my might in the first battle, and in fact, I can only do it for a few dozen seconds now.”

This surprising confession made it impossible for Guy to hide the flush of surprise.

“Huh? It can’t be just that, can it?”

“No, it’s true. For this power is something I have borrowed from Veldanava.”

Rudra shrugged and began to recount the cause.

Guy listened to Rudra’s recounting, and though he felt it was irrelevant, he now understood how powerful Rudra was.

It’s not surprising that Veldanava’s power was a part of his power.

However, after listening to Rudra’s narration, he realized there was a misunderstanding.

“It’s actually a secret, just for you to know. My skill is the ‘Covenant King Uriel’, and I have found the ultimate skill through my beliefs, my vow to unify the world, and the thoughts of my partners who have responded.

In spite of his ability, Veldanava actually helped. Even so, it is quite amazing that the ‘King of Covenant’ that arises from the concretization of Rudra’s heart is of a higher power in the angelic system.

“Next came the ‘King of Justice’ borrowed in the form of an exchange, and this too was difficult to deal with. I have the king of covenant, and have the power to break evil and protect it. But what the King of Justice has is the inexorable power of “domination.”

It is not too much to say that the one who can control the skill and borrow the power from the one who is controlled is the most suitable power for the king to rule.

However, with no one under domination at the moment, the threat is not so great, and with such a state to be able to compete evenly with Guy, Rudra was really strong.

“That’s pretty awesome.”

Guy said so.

As the number of dominators increases and the powers available to use increase, then Rudra will also become more powerful.

What the heck. I thought the continuation of mutual strength would create a grade difference that would be sure to be a victory for me—looks like it can still be enjoyed!

Looks like the fun will continue.

Realizing this, Guy became very happy.

Rudra, however, said.

“I am not interested in dominating others, but if I were a man, I should have won by my own strength alone. But sometimes, there are circumstances that make it impossible to say that…”

“Circumstances?”

“Ahh, you are also a friend of Veldanava and should have the right to know.”

Hearing him say that made Guy feel uneasy.

He hadn’t cared because he was a long-lived dragon, but he hadn’t seen Veldanava lately.

“Did something happen to that guy?”

“It was supposed to be a happy thing.’

“Hmm?”

“That man and my sister were united. It’s called marriage. Lucia was pregnant with Veldanava’s child, and thus became real family.”

“You said child? The True Dragon?”

It is truly quite a story.

But it is indeed possible to do such a thing if one possesses the whimsy of getting rid of the incompleteness of the quest of ‘all become one.’

“Anything can happen.”

“Well, if that’s all, then a blessing is enough. But the problem is from here.”

After Rudra had finished the premise, the facts laid out next made it impossible to stop with mere consternation, and even Guy couldn’t help but stand up and keep asking Rudra “Really?”

Veldanava now, had become almost indistinguishable from human beings.

He is also said to have laughed and told Rudra that he was bound by a ‘lifespan’ that kept him from getting involved.

It was too much of a truth to keep in Rudra’s mind.

So now, he told this to Guy.

“It’s really that guy’s style, so what should we do now?”

“I don’t know. So I was worried, but I’m sure I can’t just play with you.”

“Yeah……”

The two couldn’t help but look at each other and let out a sigh at the same time.

***

“Stop it! Anyway, I think you’re too good to kill, and I’m not going to fight any more. But I’ll continue to be the Demon Lord so that the world doesn’t fall apart, because that’s my agreement with him.”

Guy looked favorably upon Rudra, and since Rudra was a friend of Veldanava’s, he was also a friend of his own.

It was inevitable that he couldn’t get serious from the beginning.

But the work of the Demon Lord had to be done, and that was what Veldanava had asked him to do.

As a “mediator,” the scales of the world must not be tilted.

Guy looked Rudra in the eye so to speak, and Rudra looked straight back to inform Guy.

“Well, do you want to have a different duel?”

“A different kind of duel?”

Rudra nodded in response.

No longer smiling coyly as before, but beginning to speak in earnest.

“Yes, don’t let me fight you directly. This time, use the pawns in your hand to fight for world supremacy.”

“Hmm.”

“To be honest, I didn’t want to use the King of Justice either, but I can’t say that now. For this is the power that Veldanava has given me in support of my dream of a unified world. So, after that, I’ll add more men and I’ll get stronger.”

“I guess.”

That understanding was correct, and Guy nodded.

“I like you, so I don’t want to kill you either. Didn’t I tell you? I believe that humans can be united.

Veldanava seeks diversity, but does not ask them to hate each other. People with different ideas can just get along on the basis of mutual respect, and if they can’t accept each other’s opinions, just pull away. The indiscriminate use of force by different races and nations will lead to war, but as long as we can become a unified nation, won’t we be able to make a decision through consultation?”

“It’s hard to say? As far as I know, humans are stupid, aren’t they?”

“I know. But I’m on good terms with you, aren’t I? If the Demon Lord and the Hero, who are supposed to be natural enemies, can get along, it will be easier for the same race to understand each other!”

There is no need for a “mediator,” Rudra stressed.

Guy, however, could not agree.

“That’s a naive idea. So-called humans are creatures with strong desires. It is not “evil.” Desire is necessary in order to pursue greater possibilities. As long as the interests are relevant, even close people will frankly start fighting each other. In this regard, a magical creature without wisdom knows better, right?”

The magical creatures that evolved from animals into magical beasts would not kill again as long as their appetite was satisfied, being cunning and resourceful enough.

They don’t think about tomorrow’s food, they just enjoy the day.

But humans are different.

Humans often think about the future and become restless as a result, accumulating wealth in order to be able to cope with situations, which is instinctive, so Rudra’s thoughts can only be a dream.

It is extremely difficult to guide people by words.

In the first place, one has no idea how difficult it would have been to get one’s true meaning across through words, and to keep others from misunderstanding…

It was because Guy understood this that he felt that Rudra’s dream would not come true.

“Perhaps, and I understand, Veldanava also laughed at me that this could only be ideal… Even so I convinced him, and now he’s cheering me on. ‘ Although the probability is infinitely close to zero, just do what you want,’ those are his words. There is a secret that the ‘King of Justice’ has the power to summon the legions of angels that will destroy everything, and I will use this power skillfully for the relief of mankind, only to destroy military power and civilization, and to suppress the expansion of people’s desires, while unifying the world and making sure that an ideal world is created!”

So, cheer me on—Rudra asks Guy.

Stop killing all humans and value their potential.

“Hah! I don’t have a penchant for torture and murder! Just kill the guy who I don’t like. Whether they are good or bad has nothing to do with me. I’ll let them live if it suits me, and I’ll kill them if they don’t, that’s all.”

“So I told you to stop for a second!”

“Hah I don’t have the patience to wait for a guy who endangered the world to realize the error of his ways. ‘Hate the sin not the sinner’? Asshole, to be guilty is to be punished. It’s only reasonable to hold yourself accountable for what you do!”

“That’s what I thought! But I want you to give them a chance to change their ways.”

“Huh! You can rest assured, I will send the souls of these sinners to the underworld and give them a taste of the pain.”

“That’s not what I meant!”

Rudra stopped narrating and once again spoke cautiously from the heart.

“I’m not trying to be a great king, I just want to put a smile on everyone’s face. Wouldn’t crime be reduced as long as one could live comfortably and have a partner to talk to? Eliminating poverty and inequality and creating a world where anyone can live with a smile is what I’m looking forward to! Of course, there will be hopelessly stupid people, but I intend to minimize the sacrifices.”

Rudra now spoke of the ideal in such a way that he did not expect, in the distant future, similar words to be uttered from a population hostile to himself.

Hearing this, Guy shook his head left and right as if stunned.

“No wonder Veldanava is laughing. I didn’t expect you to be so naive. But…all right? I’ll just hear what this duel is about.”

“So?”

“It’s boring anyway. It must be fun to enjoy the game.”

It wasn’t that Guy accepted Rudra’s point of view.

He did not deny Rudra’s ideals, but he just only saw the consequences. A stubborn friend will never be persuaded by words alone.

Despite being that type of person, Rudra is trying to convince others simply by words. It was, in a sense, a contradiction and it was natural to fail.

By then, Rudra would wake up, he supposes.

If he succeeds—it’s nothing, but it will reduce Guy’s work.

No matter how it turned out there was no loss, Guy so judged.

Nor was there any particular benefit, as long as Rudra could abandon his outrageous plans.

“Is my ambition a game to you?”

Rudra laughed.

This was followed by an intimate and meticulous explanation of the rules.

The rules are simple.

“Just the players don’t fight, their men will fight.”

That’s all.

That is, a showdown between Guy and Rudra is forbidden.

If he beats all of Guy’s partners, Rudra will win, in which case Guy will obey Rudra.

But until he succeeds, Guy is free to move about as he pleases, following the agreement with Veldanava and freely performing the duties of a “mediator.”

There’s hardly any restriction on Guy, but from Rudra’s standpoint, just that’s useful enough.

It was the original responsibility of the “hero” to prevent the “demon lord,” who acted as a mediator in a way that threatened humanity, from leaving.

Even if Guy thought calmly, his power was too strong, and just one strike would cause great damage.

Rudra had been clinging to Guy in order to avoid such a thing, but at this rate Rudra’s dream would not come true, and sealing Guy’s move was necessary in order to be able to launch an operation to unify the world.

Reading Rudra’s mind, Guy said.

“Yeah. It will agree not to do anything, I collect demon lords who would replace me and give them the responsibility for the direct punishment of humanity.”

“It’s up to me to stop it. I will use my own hands to unify the world before the society that the Demon Lord is in charge of is born!”

“You’re walking the path of misery, aren’t you? It’s some kind of ideal that even that good old Veldanava gave up.”

Veldanava was a dreamer and a perfectionist, but he was able to distinguish between ideal and reality and to think dispassionately about whether it could be achieved.”

Veldanava gave up omniscience and omnipotence in pursuit of change, and as a result, it was no longer possible for him to realize the ideal society he had in mind.”

But to Veldanava, this is the right solution. A world that all works as he wants. He finds it not interesting at all.

It was because of understanding Veldanava’s mood that Rudra exclaimed.

“But even so! I wanted to reassure him that not only was he bound by life expectancy, but he was even left with a fighting power that was not even close to that of an ordinary human. Still, the guy was happy to be walking to the end with Lucia…But, I was worried about where the world was going! More than anything else, I am worried about the future of the children…”

“Mm?”

“That’s why I need to give him peace of mind and create a world where everyone can live happily, so that he won’t feel uneasy at the end of his life. And then, the world that guy creates will mature into a wonderful world of relational harmony—I just want him to be satisfied!”

Rudra had sworn to Veldanava to “establish a united nation.”

With the desire to make the sister happy, he was determined to get rid of all the misfortune in the world.

“Let us, the parties, decide the affairs of this world with our own hands, and you, who are not bound by life, witness the final end as the judge.”

“Well…”

To Rudra’s words, Guy didn’t come out with an answer.

In Guy’s mind, it had been determined that it could not be done, but because of the understanding Rudra’s mood, hesitated whether or not the words of denial should be spoken.

What the hell, asshole? Doesn’t that make you the one who has to carry everything…?

But it was at this time that the emotions were so sharp that Guy hated his own mind.

Guy, though prideful, was gentle with those he liked, and this tenderness instead became a bondage that even made it impossible for him to stop the reckless Rudra.

To this dear and foolish friend, Guy lost his words.

Your challenge, surely, will fail.

Guy’s mind, calmly calculated the result.

With a success rate so low that it can’t even be expressed in terms of probability, Rudra, who is regarded as Guy’s best friend, will never give up.

A hero is one who has an unyielding heart. Rudra is undoubtedly a true “hero” who shoulders all the hardships and carries the goal of achieving the ideal world.

That’s why, if it was this guy, maybe—Guy thought so.

It was Rudra who made Guy think like that, and Guy bet on that tiny possibility.

However, as a result…

***

Several tragedies have occurred during the constant and repeated duel between Guy and Rudra.

The initial misfortune occurred immediately after the birth of Veldanava and Lucia’s child.

Taking advantage of Rudra expedition, there was a terrorist attack in the Nazca kingdom, the work of a warring enemy, which resulted in the death of both Lucia and Veldanava.

At that moment, Rudra’s dream collapsed with a bang.

“I, I just want, just to reassure Veldanava, to make him agree with us…”

Ruddra killed his heart, saying that he can no longer cry.

All that remains is an ideal that has lost its purpose.

“Ahhh, all I have left is a duel with you, and the only thing I want is for you to agree with me.”

“Yeah. I’ll be your opponent.”

The game goes on…

The next misfortune, happened to Milim, the child of Veldanava.

Milim was raised without knowing what her parents looked like.

Didn’t even know there was a blood relationship between herself and Rudra.

Milim’s pet, who was both the only family member and an escort at the same time, had died as a result of some state ploy.

Milim lamented her grief and burst into rage, and to calm down Milim, Guy went into full action.

If Milim was not stopped, several countries would have perished.

“Even so, do you want to continue? If only I had struck sooner, Milim wouldn’t have been sad, would she?”

“It is my responsibility, and even so, if I stops here, all the previous sacrifices will be meaningless. As emperor, it is my duty not to stop halfway.”

“I don’t think that’s necessary. Well, I’ll be with you until you approve.”

If he stops here, Rudra believes he’s going to break.

Guy also had to delay his conclusion.

An unfortunate future awaited him, and as much as Guy thought so in his heart, he hadn’t fully decided it was going to be that way.

Just like that, the game goes on…

The constant repetition of suffering.

The ugliness of the world at hand.

Each reincarnation depleted the holy power, and Rudra gradually lost his “hero” status.

Rudra’s ability to remain a “saint” is probably the result of his dedication to his ideals.

Even so, the limits come down.

Unknown to him, Rudra’s heart has also eroded, losing his original ideals.

Not knowing if it was the fate of the man who lost his purpose, Rudra began to become unscrupulous in order to win over Guy…

Cold and cruel.

The win over Guy became everything, and as a result, caused even more bloodshed.

These, all of them, were the same as Guy’s judgment.

Finally, the day has come.

Guy followed the rules and bet on the last possibility.

To the most unknown of his own pawns, and the most promising of all existences (Rimuru), he pins the final judgment.

In all honesty, he had wanted to move himself.

But until the end, Guy followed the rules.

As a result…

In the distance, the breath of his friend has vanished.

I’m sure it’s not just Rimuru who could do it—Guy couldn’t help but sigh.

There is no bitterness, no remorse.

Just simply the mourning of a dear friend.

“That’s why I told you, asshole. Like this, it’s only right for us as demons, for us who have never been emotionally shaken…”

Guy whispered, not noticing the thing running down his cheek.

Just quietly, praying for Rudra’s happiness.

And just like that, the millennia-long game between Guy and Rudra was over.

Guy facetiously maintained the same fearless smile as usual, his heart inwardly sinking to the bottom of a sad lake.

The eyes of a deep sea blue diamond color stared coldly at Guy.

A small, twisted smile appeared on the edge of his mouth…

Even when the game is over, the fires of strife remain entangled.

Thus, the smoke of the world-scale war, the “Battle of the Demons (Tenma),” was ignited.