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“So, regarding the giant sword mark that carved through the valley—you certainly went wild, Sir Nickelson,” Varlog remarked as they walked side by side. “Intimidating us to such an extent when we came in peace—we couldn’t help but kneel and apologize,” he added with a casual smile.

As Varlog and Nickelson continued back to the platoon, the pegasus carried Cerille ahead, while Van and Yilla walked together behind them, with Liliac bringing up the rear.

“Hmph,” Yilla began, nodding toward Varlog and Nickelson. “Varlog could take on a thousand of that human, yet he elevates him to this extent… I dislike it. I understand the need to appeal to him, but this is just…”

“… A form of boot-licking?” Van interjected, occasionally glancing back at the slash mark he had left on the valley.

“You read my mind,” Yilla replied with a sigh.

“Well, flattery won’t change their power levels,” Van said flatly. “In the end, everyone in the demon realm knows Nickelson couldn’t have done it,” he continued, his eyes still fixed on the carved valley behind them.

“Besides… Nickelson and the rest of Magus’s party are the strongest they have. They need some reassurance that someone strong is defending them,” Van reasoned.

Yilla looked at Van intently, remaining silent.

“What…?” Van asked, catching her gaze.

“What are you looking at?” she inquired.

“Oh, just… taking in the scenery,” Van replied dismissively.

‘… Was that… really 31,000 points in strength?’ he thought.

“I see. You seem different,” she observed.

Van’s gaze snapped back to Yilla. “How so?”

“You seem… aloof, distant; almost.” she murmured.

“I don’t know much about being aloof, but… a lot happened. I just realized how much I missed you all,” he admitted with a deep sigh. “And… with how I left without a word… she’s probably upset,” he added, lowering his gaze.

“So, I’m a bit out of it.”

‘… Did he come so quickly because he expected her to be here?’ Yilla wondered.

‘She…?’ Cerille and Nickelson thought, overhearing the conversation. ‘Van Hellix met a demonic maiden that caught his fancy…?’ Cerille mused, while her father raised an eyebrow, distracted from his talk with Varlog.

“It wasn’t until I left that I realized just how much I miss her,” Van continued, with Varlog smiling at his words.

“I… honestly can’t stop thinking about her,” he added with an awkward chuckle.

Unbeknownst to Yilla and Van, everyone had been listening in.

‘Ho? Meaty found someone like that? Hmph, it must be some lowly slave she threw at him, considering he’s a human… and what a human at that. No one would even glance his way, so it must be someone lowly they can discard, to keep him at bay. Has he begged?’ Nickelson thought mockingly, momentarily forgetting Varlog and Van’s affectionate exchange.

“Well, good,” Yilla said flatly. “Because half the reason we’re here is to bring you back. Master Varlog had a message from her majesty… for you,” she added. “I don’t think he’d mind if I told you,” she concluded, as Varlog sighed from afar.

A spark lit up in Van’s eyes as he shifted his attention to Yilla, while Cerille, overhearing, glanced back.

‘A message from the Demon Lord to Van Hellix…?! What could it be…?’ she wondered, as Nickelson’s attention also snapped to them.

‘Wait a minute,’ Nickelson’s mouth fell open, ‘She… The Demon Lord has a message for Meaty… Surely, the demonic maiden that caught his fancy couldn’t be…!!!’

“Her Majesty said ‘Yes,’ Van. She wants to marry you. And in case it wasn’t clear, the display with that servant was just a performance,” Yilla began, watching Van’s eyes widen, almost ripping apart.

The image of Alicia in the arms of that demonic servant, which had lingered in the back of Van’s mind, instantly shattered. All the doubts that had haunted his feelings and judgment were swept away…

Meanwhile, Nickelson and Cerille stood frozen, their expressions turning to stone.

‘WWWWWWWWWWHHHHHHHAAAAAAATTTT?!??! THE DEMON LORD WANTS TO MARRY HIM!!!!?’ Nickelson thought, nearly foaming at the mouth.

‘Van Hellix… And the Demon Lord…!!!? H-how…’ Cerille thought, forgetting to breathe.

“WHAT A LOAD OF NONSENSE!!!” Nickelson yelled, spinning around, his face contorting in disbelief. “WHAT SORT OF BAFFLERY ARE YOU SPEWING!!!? DO YOU TAKE US FOR FOOLS WITH A PRANK LIKE THIS!!!!?”

Varlog sighed, taking a step back with an awkward chuckle.

“… Is it really that shocking?” Yilla wondered aloud as she turned to Nickelson and Cerille.

Nickelson froze, staring into the maid’s eyes, realizing there wasn’t even a hint of jest in her expression.

“I-Impossible… That… The Demon Lord and… HIM…?!” Nickelson murmured, looking back at the demonic group.

‘That demonic servant mentioned… that half the reason they’re here is to… pick him up… YOU MEAN TO SAY IT’S FOR THAT…!?’ Nickelson thought, his eye twitching.

‘Ah… dear Yilla, perhaps a bit thoughtless to mention this in such company…’ Varlog mused.

‘Oh well,’ he shrugged.

“So, anyway, we’re—”

“Sorry, Yilla,” Van cut her off softly, his expression unreadable.

“I’m going to be a bit selfish. You’ve got things covered here for a bit, right?” Van said firmly, looking to the south.

Yilla sighed, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. “… Sure. Master Varlog is reliable, so go ahead. Don’t take too long, though.”

In that moment, Van stomped to the rear, moving hastily towards Liliac.

“W-Wait a minute, Hellix, you owe some—!!!” Nickelson began to shout, only to be interrupted by Van’s booming voice.

“BOY!!” Van shouted at Liliac, whose head snapped up. “Defend them from the blast!” he commanded as he strode past.

“Blast…?!” Nickelson called out in alarm, readying his sword. ‘What blast…!? What is that bastard planning now!?’

“W-Wait…!! Mr. Hellix, my sword is still…!!” Cerille shouted, trying to remind Van that her sword was still strapped to his back from earlier.

“Oh dear. Just in case, everyone, gather behind me,” Varlog called out cheerfully, though his eyes narrowed in seriousness as he turned to face the back, focusing intently on Van.

‘That… That demon, Varlog… The second-in-command is making such an expression while looking at that bastard…! What is he planning!?’ Nickelson thought, feeling an unsettling compulsion to follow Varlog’s instructions.

Nickelson moved behind Varlog, signaling the pegasus carrying Cerille to do the same.

“Be back soon,” Van said as he kneeled, tensing every muscle in his body.

“Van…?” Yilla murmured as she noticed Van freeze in place.

No burst of Aura, no sinister energy detected by Cerille or Nickelson.

Only the profound stillness of the world. The water ceased its flow, the birds fell silent, and even the breeze stopped whispering through the plains.

She watched as he knelt.

It was as if his very presence drained the life from the valley, pulling everything inward.

His muscles tightened, condensing to a degree that even Van himself might have found alien—had he the presence of mind to notice.

“I’m… coming…!” Van murmured, his gaze fixed ahead, every fiber of his being ready to launch forward…

… when he felt a soft tap on his shoulder.

“Here, use this,” Varlog said, extending his other arm, holding out an object in front of Van.

Van’s focus shifted to the item in Varlog’s hand, his taut muscles slowly relaxing.

“A… teleportation stone? Varlog, don’t you need this?” he asked.

“Just take it, Van,” Varlog insisted. “I’d rather not have to explain another crater.” He sighed, the firmness in his voice softened by a touch of weariness.

Without a second thought, Van grasped the stone, crushing it instantly.

“I’ll pay you back,” Van promised as his form began to fade.

“I’m sure you will,” Varlog replied as Van vanished.

Turning back to the group, Varlog clapped his hands together. “Now then, let us continue.”

“I am… too old for this…” Nickelson thought, still grappling with the reality of Van and the Demon Lord becoming a couple.

“My… sword…” Cerille muttered to herself. “You forgot to give it back…”

———————- A MOMENT LATER, BACK IN THE DEMONIC CASTLE ———————

Alicia sat at a table near her throne, alone in the vast throne room, scribbling on documents. Her eyes occasionally drifted to Van’s ring lying beside her.

“Hahh…” She sighed, taking a brief respite as she lifted the ring, a small vase resting nearby.

Just then, the doors swung open abruptly.

“Hmph, nevermind…” she muttered, her voice tinged with resignation. “Leave the extra batch of documents here; I’ll review them later,” she added, placing the ring back on the table.

‘How frustrating. If only Van were here already so that I could—’

“DEMON… LORD…!!” Van’s voice growled as he strode into the throne room.

“So that I could…” Alicia murmured, her eyes widening in disbelief as she slowly lifted her gaze.

“SO THAT I COULD…!!!” Her eyes flared with an intense fire as they locked onto Van’s face. The desk beneath her began to melt; the documents crumbled to ash. Van’s expression remained unreadable as he advanced slowly toward her.

“SO THAT I COULD CUT HIS HEAD OFF!!!” she screamed, her wings spreading wide as she launched herself at him with blinding speed, her claws unsheathed and aimed at his throat.

“YOU BASTAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD!!! DIE A TRILLION TIMES BEFORE DARING TO FACE ME AGAIN!!!!” she screamed, tears streaming down her face as she clashed with Van, unleashing all her fury.

Van caught her arms just before they reached his face, halting her mid-air.

“I’m not in the mood to play anymore, Alicia,” he stated firmly.

“WHAT, HAD ENOUGH TIME PLAYING WITH MY HEART?! GO AWAY!!! GO AWAY!!!” she screamed, breathing fire into his face as he held her steady; yet the flames did nothing to Van.

“GO AWAY…!!! GO AWAY!!!” she cried, her voice breaking as he kept her in place. “Do you have… ANY IDEA WHAT YOU DID TO ME?! YOU HUMAN SCUM!!! BASTARD!!!” she sobbed, glaring at Van, who stood firm, unwavering.

“I HATE YOU!!! YOU BASTARD, I HATE YOU!!! I SHOULD HAVE LAID WITH THAT SERVANT BEFORE YOUR EYES SO YOU WOUL—” she shouted, but her words were cut short as Van pulled her close, pressing his lips against hers.

“Mmfh…?!” she gasped, feeling the warmth of his lips against hers, the fury in her chest momentarily giving way to the unexpected tenderness of his kiss.

“Humph…” Alicia hummed again, tears welling up as she felt the warmth radiate from Van’s lips. Her breathing gradually steadied, and her muscles began to relax.

A few seconds later, Van gently parted from her, his eyes meeting hers as he released her arm and tenderly caressed her cheek. “You don’t mean that. I know you don’t,” he said firmly.

“Y-you…” Her voice trembled as she gritted her teeth, her face flushed a deep red. “You kissed me… so unceremoniously… in such an undignified, inexperienced, and unsightly way…!!! As punishment…!! I’ll kill you…!! I am The Demon Lord…!!” she declared, gritting her teeth as she used her free arm to weakly hit his chest.

In that moment, Van stopped thinking and let his heart speak.

“Then behead me,” he whispered, gently placing his fingers under her chin, guiding her to look at him again. “Kill me. Hurry up and mete out my punishment so that I can kiss you again after I die. And then, kill me once more so I can do it all over again. Kill me a trillion times if you wish. At the very least, this way, I’ll get to kiss you a trillion times too,” he said as he pulled her close. “… And perhaps then you’d forgive me for leaving so abruptly,” he added, caressing her palm.

‘Odd,’ Van thought, ‘saying such bold words, caressing her palm, looking into her eyes… kissing Alicia. I always thought I’d need to practice those things, considering I’ve never done them before. But… it feels natural.’ He wondered. ‘Like… it’s just meant to be.’

“… Dumb… stupid… moronic… human… of course, I don’t mean that…!!” she muttered, tears spilling down her cheeks.

“Mean…? Mean what?” he asked softly.

“No one… can possibly take your place… You should know that by now…!!” she cried in frustration, hitting his chest once more. “So why did you leave me…!!?”

“I missed you…!! You imbecile…!” she sobbed, looking up at him, her voice breaking with a sniffle.

“… I was scared,” Van began, meeting her gaze more intently. “And a lot of things happened… But shortly after I left is when I realized that I shouldn’t have done that,” he confessed, brushing his palm against her nape.

“You…!!!” she growled through gritted teeth, her face contorting in anger. “YOU…!!!” she roared.

In that instant, Van pulled her into a deeper kiss…

… to which she deepened herself.

[AUTHOR’S NOTE:]

Yeah, I didn’t want to drag this out for 60 more chapters, and wanted Van to get character development, which he DESPERATELY needs.

Besides I’m a VaLicia shipper. And I’m done pretending like I’m not. It’s IN THE NAME OF THE BOOK, DAMN IT.Also:

I WOULD NEEEEVER~ FALL IN LOVEEEE AGAIN UNTIL I~ FOUUUUND HER~~~ I SAID “I WOULD NEVER FAAAAAALL UNLESS IT’S YOU I’M FALLING TOOO~~~~”

[2025 Hazy here – as You can see I was very enthusiastic 😀 I still am, though – so saying “was” isn’t accurate. Thanks for reading!]

“First things first, Helix. What is your connection with those demons?” Nickelson asked, as the five stood in a circle, with Van positioned next to Yilla and Varlog, while Lilac sat obediently behind them.

“That’s Yilla, Varlog, and Lilac to you, Nickelson,” Van started. “As for my reason, I visited the Demon Realm and hung out there for the last two years. Considering we have a peace treaty, I fail to see how that’s a problem,” Van stated flatly.

‘Well, you almost started a war, dear Van, considering how you went about hanging out,’ Varlog thought in resignation.

Nickelson rubbed his temples, struggling to contain his anger. “I doubt your ‘Party’ would approve of this if they knew…” He sighed heavily.

Van shifted slightly, casting his gaze aside in thought. ‘He’s right…’ The thought lingered, and lingered hard. ‘I’ll need to keep the “important” details under wraps if it ever comes to that. They’d go for my throat if they knew. Guess I’ll just have to save their lives again… and tell them then, that’ll soften the blow… Nah, considering the shit we’ve been through, even that might not be enough. Nickelson and his daughter not flipping their shit right now is pure luck…’

“M-may I ask something, Sir Hellix?” Cerille stuttered as she emerged from behind Nickelson.

Varlog, Yilla, and Van raised their eyebrows; ‘Sir?’ they all thought in unison, looking at Cerille, as Nickelson sighed.

“…You may,” Van affirmed, looking at her squarely.

‘I was sure he’d be much older… Is that an ability?’ she wondered, scrutinizing his face.

“…Hello?” Van asked, noticing her prolonged silence.

Startled, she jumped. “Y-Yes! That… Sir Liliac,” she glanced at the bone dragon. “Why did he come here?”

“Well, he was probably bored. So, he just flew here,” Van said casually. “That’s why he’s so calm now after we played around for a bit,” he nodded at Lilac.

“Bored..?” Nickelson whispered, his voice shaky. “You wish to tell me I dispatched all of the knights and alerted the king himself because that monster was bored!!?” he yelled. “And what else, played around..!? My daughter almost died because of that dragon!!!” Nickelson erupted.

“You’re being unreasonable, Nickelson. No one died, so—” Van began, but Varlog interjected, placing a firm hand on Van’s shoulder.

“I believe what dear Van means to say,” he began, giving Van a scolding nod before facing Nickelson squarely, “is that we acknowledge this mistake, King’s Hand Nickelson. It was a very grave error that could have sparked a second great war. We deeply apologize and hope this has not damaged our relations,” Varlog said, stepping forward.

‘Hah, right,’ Van thought, conceding the stage to Varlog. ‘Nickelson may have matured, but he’s still a piece of shit, I bet. He’d retaliate if this isn’t handled carefully.’ Van stepped back gracefully.

‘Impressive. He showed both at the pool and here that he can be level-headed when it matters,’ Cerille thought, somewhat relaxed as she watched Van back off. ‘As expected… He really is Van Hellix. He wouldn’t have survived otherwise.’

“Hmph. At least you know when to let the wiser adults speak, Hellix,” Nickelson mocked, turning to face Varlog. “Aside from your newly acquired brawn, you’re naught but a meaty child.”

“Yeah?” Van snapped at the word ‘meaty’, glaring at Nickelson as he stepped forward again.

“Ah…” Cerille’s heart sank at the exchange, concerned, while Nickelson smiled triumphantly as Van stomped forward.

Just before he let his bubbling anger take over, Van caught a glimpse of Varlog’s gaze and felt most of his rage draining away.

“Someday, Nickelson,” Van said, turning to him again. “Someday, you will answer to me for everything.” He stated firmly.

As Cerille watched the seriousness in Van’s eyes, she couldn’t help but wonder…

‘What happened between Van Hellix and my father…?’

“…But not now,” Van continued. “Not at the expense of those demons,” he said, turning back and walking away. “Demons whom you praised as wise just a moment ago.”

“Tsk,” Nickelson clicked his tongue in irritation, while Varlog couldn’t help but smile pridefully.

“Now then!” Varlog muttered loudly, smiling as he clasped his palms. “Let us converse. I assume you also wish to resolve this peacefully. After all, we demons are bound by contract and faith. There is no reason to break such a treaty due to a child’s temper tantrum,” Varlog stated, nodding at Lilac, who lowered his head.

Nickelson sighed deeply, shifting his gaze from Van to Varlog.

“I understand. But this is no laughing matter… demon,” Nickelson replied. Varlog’s soft smile remained unwavering. “This child’s presence, and yours, riled our troops, the royal families, and most nearby villages. It put us on full alert, ready to fight to the death,” he explained, with Cerille looking away shamefully as she recalled her father’s attempted escape.

“…You realize I cannot simply dismiss this as a ‘child’s temper tantrum.’ It would instill even more fear in our people that our prior enemies can become our present ones just by having no one to ‘play’ with. Especially amidst these constant dragon attacks. I must report this incident in its entirety and leave it to the King to decide how to act,” Nickelson stated firmly.

‘No… His Majesty the King will most definitely escalate this issue, and a war could easily ignite…! He’ll set things in motion against the demons the moment he finds out,’ Cerille thought, an unexpected grimace crossing her face. ‘But this is our duty… We must be truthful…!’ She clenched her fists tightly, steeling herself.

“I understand completely,” Varlog stated calmly. “You are loyal to your kingdom and your people. But, what did you say? Dragon attacks?” Varlog’s demeanor changed as he leaned forward, his interest piqued.

“I have. What of them?” Nickelson muttered, raising an eyebrow at Varlog.

“Oh, nothing much.” Varlog murmured. “Although, I must confess, I sometimes keep myself busy hearing about the Royal Capital. I’m intrigued by the culture. Sixteen years of constant attacks, and now, Arutol himself… Quite the predicament,” Varlog said, looking up at the sky.

“Speak your mind, then,” Nickelson said, his curiosity piqued.

“Oh, there is no mind to speak!” Varlog replied. “But seeing as you are in quite the tight spot, and given that we owe you an apology, I thought we could lend you a hand with your draconic threat. As a show of good faith,” Varlog suggested.

‘I don’t remember much news from the outside reaching the Demonic Realm… Did he learn on the way…?’ Van thought, curious.

Nickelson pondered as he looked down at the grass. Meanwhile, Yilla smiled triumphantly at his contemplative expression.

“Ah-ah-ah!” Varlog said loudly, raising his palm to Nickelson. “Forget what I just said,” he began, startling Nickelson, whose attention snapped back to him.

“After all, your king, being so fair and just for his people, would never accept our help once he learns of this incident… Such a shame,” Varlog stated, causing Van’s eyes to widen in surprise.

‘So that’s what he wanted… Nice, Varlog!’ Van thought.

‘That demon… is smart!’ Cerille thought, looking at Varlog in awe.

“Tsk, tsk, tsk…” Varlog clicked his tongue and shook his head slowly. “And to think the Dragon King now stands in the realm of the mythical… almost godly. No matter. As you wish, we shall leave and let you report this incident to your king,” Varlog said, turning to signal the others to leave.

Van stood, watching him, waiting for Varlog’s words to bear fruit; waiting besides Cerille and Nickelson.

“Van?” Varlog called, as he and Yilla stopped. “What are you doing? Come on, it is time to leave,” he said, looking almost surprised that Van hadn’t followed.

‘W-… What?’ Van thought, gasping softly as he looked between Varlog and Nickelson.

“…I admit one must appeal to the other in diplomatic exchanges. I am sure the dignified King’s Hand knows this well,” Varlog began. “However…”

“I will never entertain the notion that you are not one of ours, regardless of who frowns upon it,” Varlog stated firmly, his gaze piercing as he looked at Van, extending his hand to him.

“Her Majesty is waiting,” he exclaimed.

Van’s mouth was momentarily agape. Even Cerille couldn’t help but feel moved.

‘I had grown to believe,’ she thought, ‘that demons are cruel, uncultured, and vicious. That they hold blood matches in the highest esteem… I believed it…’

‘But… I never believed that a demon could shine this brightly,’ she thought, as Van, almost subconsciously, began walking towards Varlog.

“HOLD IT,” Nickelson called, halting their movements.

Varlog turned around, his eyebrow innocently raised. “Yes? What is it?”

“…What is your name, demon?” Nickelson asked, causing Cerille to gasp.

‘To think… Father would ever ask a demon their name…! Has he earned Father’s respect!?’

“… I am Balrogothiel Malachor Abbadon, a proud servant of Her Majesty, the Queen of Darkness,” he replied, his arms clasped behind his back. “Although I would rather you address me as simply Varlog.”

‘He actually said his full name… Damn,’ Van thought, in awe.

“…Varlog. I am Sir Alistair Ealdred Ignatius Nickelson, the King’s Hand. Address me as Sir Nickelson,” he said as a gentle breeze brushed the group.

“Pleasure, Sir Nickelson,” Varlog nodded.

“…So, Varlog. What has happened here?” Nickelson asked, his tone slightly softer.

Varlog’s smirk stretched slightly longer as he took a step forward. “Why, we were so concerned upon hearing about your predicament that we had to come ourselves, and as swiftly as possible,” he said.

“I see… How considerate,” Nickelson murmured. “But that energy you exuded when you arrived—what was the cause of it?”

“Ah, we simply wanted to alert you to our arrival, so as not to startle you. We believed that suddenly appearing at the front gates would be ill-advised. We are terribly sorry our actions ended up causing harm; it was definitely not our intention. We were short-sighted in that department and hope you can forgive us,” he said with a short bow.

“I understand. I must deliver news of what you just told me to my king, as it is my duty,” Nickelson said.

‘Yes…’ Yilla thought proudly as she looked at Varlog. ‘That is our Master Varlog… His wisdom is unparalleled!’

“Walk with us,” Nickelson ordered. “First, we need to reassure my troops… and our people,” he said with a swift glance at Cerille before they all started to walk in unison.

[Author here. W Varlog.]

“I’ve made certain,” Varlog said, landing back where Nickelson, Cerille, Yilla, Van, and Liliac’s corpse were located. “No villages or humans were hit by your attack…” he muttered as he gradually shifted to his human form.

“But you sure gave those nearby quite a fright, Van,” he added, his tone more stern as he addressed Van.

Van nodded. “I’ve walked this path quite a few times. I knew where to strike,” he said, clearing his throat.

“And you know I don’t make the same mistake twice, Varlog,” he added flatly.

“… Yes, I’m aware you’re careful. Keep that trait close to your chest,” Varlog said, looking squarely at Van.

Meanwhile, Cerille stood behind her father’s tall stature, scrutinizing Van and Varlog, and more importantly, the rarity of a high-ranked demon and a human conversing so naturally.

‘The boy… No, the man before me right now… is actually him,’ Cerille thought, her eyes almost glistening as she watched the armored figure.

‘Van… Hellix!’

——————— 10 YEARS AGO ———————

“ANNE!! YOU SAID I COULD BE VAN TODAY!!” Cerille screamed.

“ONLY IF YOU WIN, CERILLE!! YOU HAVEN’T BEATEN ME FOR A WEEK IN A ROW!!”

“BUT YOU PROMISED!!!”

———————————————–

Cerille let out a slight chuckle at the memory.

“A demon worried about humans’ safety. What a rare sight. To think you could even have feelings like worry.” Nickelson remarked, almost cynically.

“F-father, he—” Cerille tried to interject, looking up at Nickelson, but she was too slow. Van had already turned to face him. “Rarer things have occurred,” Van began.

“For example, someone as rotten as you exists and was even brought to the King’s Hand position, Nickelson. Therefore,” he continued, each word laced with venom, abruptly walking towards Nickelson until he was mere inches away,

“hold your FUCKING tongue, or I’ll RIP it out for you,” Van growled, his grip on Cerille’s greatsword intensifying as he glared at Nickelson.

‘What…? Why is… Why is he so angry at Father…?’ Cerille thought, confusion evident as she looked at Van.

“Oh? Is that a threat…” Nickelson started, narrowing his eyes, “Meaty?” he mocked.

“Grrggh…!” Van’s body tensed, his hyper-condensed fist tightening as memories of being ‘trained’ by the Capital’s First Battalion and by Nickelson flashed through his mind, overwhelming him.

‘This is bad… He’s going to hit Father!!’ Cerille thought, her face paling as she felt the shift in Van’s demeanor. Nickelson closed his eyes, bracing himself for the inevitable.

“WAI—” she called, but before she could finish, Varlog’s palm cut through the air, landing on Van’s shoulder. He leaned in close, whispering in English, “Hey,” as he drew near Van’s ear…

“Thanks for the free parking.”

Van immediately froze. “… Varlog. I swear to God, this is not the time. If you continue that—”

“Another; ACTIVIST, Meh-gua-yer,” Yilla said as she approached.

“Activist,” Varlog replied, “MMmmyesss.”

‘What in the Goddess’s name…?’ Cerille thought to herself as she heard the two demons speak the foreign language. ‘Is this the Demonic Tongue…?’

‘A spell…?’ Nickelson wondered, reluctantly opening his eyes as he listened in.

“Stop… Don’t you dare finish it…” Van’s voice quivered as Yilla’s and Varlog’s eyes sparkled with mischief.

“Hum, hm, Activist, Mmmyesss him, humhoomhoom hem hoom blurghe…” Varlog and Yilla blurted in unison, a triumphant smirk on their faces.

“PFFFT,” Van cracked, “… I wanna kill myself,” He chuckled lightly as he lowered his head, stepping away from Nickelson.

Both Nickelson and Cerille fell silent, tilting their heads in unison, trying to comprehend what had just transpired.

“I see you’ve improved your proficiency in Ace The Venturer’s path…” Van giggled as he turned to them.

“But of course,” Varlog said, triumphantly patting his beard. “It is by far the best technique to quell the hearts of demons, paralleled by none,” he said calmly.

“Master Varlog, I…” Yilla started reluctantly. “While it definitely had its effects on Van, I disagree.”

“Oh?” Varlog turned, raising an eyebrow. “Do you believe a fairer path exists?”

“Please…” She raised her gaze confidently. “The Way Of The Sandler is simply the peak of its ways of tranquility,” she said, clearing her throat before saying in English:

“Goosssfrabaaaa,” she let out, smirking in satisfaction.

‘Goos-what now?’ Cerille narrowed her eyes, attempting to understand the meaning behind the incantations.

“The effect it has on your heart and mind is simply beyond magical. I feel my wrath draining simply by tapping into this language,” Yilla said confidently.

“Hmph,” Varlog hummed, slightly impressed. “Perhaps it does have its charm, but the Path of The Venturer is simply superior in every way, dear Yilla,” he replied, clearing his throat before declaring:

“I HAVE… EXOR-SIIIIIIIZED THA DEMONS… This hause is cleee-arhh naw,” Varlog proclaimed with valor.

“You can almost feel your mind’s capabilities increase as you speak,” Varlog proudly commented.

“Hm, you have used quite a long spell to rival my own… How about I do the same, Master Varlog?” she said, before speaking in English:

“I am sorry I was so rood before baht it’s difficahlt for me to express maiself when I am on the verge of… exploding in my pants.”

“Hoho, you are still far too young and too inexperienced, dear,” Varlog said with a soft chuckle. “Incant too long a spell, and it loses its efficiency,” he scolded.

“Father… What is happening?” Cerille questioned, watching the exchange in confusion.

“… I believe… they are having… a… demonic… incantation… battle…?” Nickelson replied, his voice uncertain.

“Either way, dear Van,” Varlog said, turning back to Van, “now that you have relaxed thanks to the clearly superior Path of The Venturer, we need to discuss—”

Varlog’s words were cut short.

[BACKGROUND MUSIC: Lord of The Rings – Sound of The Shire]

Van hurled himself onto Varlog, pulling him into a tight embrace.

“Sorry, I just…” he cleared his throat, Yilla gasping lightly as she watched Van’s arm encircle Varlog.

“Really… Really…” Van’s voice quivered as he spoke, “…missed your wife’s roast,” he whispered, as Varlog gently returned his hug.

“Indeed… The feeling is mutual, dear Van,” Varlog said with a soft chuckle, lightly tapping Van’s armored back.

“It has been far too long,” Varlog added.

Cerille’s mouth was wide agape as she stood behind her father, looking at her childhood hero… Embracing a once sworn enemy.

‘Van Hellix… is… hugging the Demon Lord’s Second-In-Command…?!’ Cerille thought, her eyes widening as she watched the exchange.

“What… is this…?” Nickelson muttered, confused and slightly unnerved, as Van rose from Varlog’s embrace and headed towards Yilla.

‘Is this the result of the spell they cast on him…? Should we prepare for battle?’ Nickelson wondered, anxiety creeping into his thoughts.

Yet Cerille, curious and somewhat relaxed, continued to observe.

“You seem well, Yilla,” Van said gently as he raised her palm, her gaze lowering to the ground.

“Yes, you too,” she replied, her voice barely audible as she allowed her palm to be guided upward by Van’s gentle touch.

Van let out a soft chuckle as he lowered her palm, preparing to turn away. But he was stopped as Yilla suddenly stormed towards him, tightly hugging him without a word.

Van chuckled, returning her hug and patting her head as she clung to him.

‘He’s… friends with the demons,’ Cerille thought, cautious yet increasingly intrigued, while her father tensed restlessly.

“Say,” Van started, “do you mind…?” He looked at Yilla, nodding towards the fragmented Liliac with his head.

“…Of course,” she replied, “Her majesty prepared quite a few meals for cases just like this one.” She walked towards Liliac’s cleaved corpse, pulling out a glowing stone from her leather bag and breaking it before the dragon’s remains.

They all watched in wonder as a brilliant light enveloped Liliac’s corpse, raising all his bones to the sky, reassembling him right before their eyes.

“They’re reviving that dragon…!” Nickelson murmured, his eyes widening in terror as he shielded his daughter, pulling out his sword.

“Relax,” Van said, turning to Nickelson and Cerille as the dragon was nearly complete. “He won’t hurt you,” he stated firmly.

Nickelson relaxed a bit at Van’s words but remained in a battle-ready stance, beads of sweat trickling down his face as the dragon finished forming.

“Boy…” Van started as the mighty dragon faced him squarely, “I see you caused some trouble for Uncle Varlog and Aunt Yilla.” He approached Liliac.

‘He’s… provoking it!’ Cerille thought, wary.

“But seeing as no one got hurt, I’ll save the lecture for later.” He spread his arms wide, “So get over here,” he called as he raised his palm high in the air.

The mighty dragon bent its beak, gently pressing it against Van’s chest, allowing him to rub its beak.

“You’ve been really bored, haven’t you, boy?” Van said, his tone weak.

Nickelson then collapsed to his knees once more.

‘He’s… treating that dragon… as I would a pet…’

…But this time, not out of fear. But awe.

“…Father?” Cerille called as she sensed her father’s demeanor shift.

Nickelson rose and walked towards Van, stopping several meters away from him.

“…What do you want, Nickelson?” Van asked, still focusing on Liliac.

“I dislike you, Hellix. I loathe you, and this little display is nothing but treacherous to the Capital, an utter show of disrespect to my fallen comrades who met their end fighting the very demons you show this unsightly affection toward. Even with your newfound strength, I shall never apologize for what I’ve done to you,” Nickelson began, causing Varlog and Yilla to tense slightly.

“Father! They mean peace, there’s no need for—”

“However,” Nickelson continued, bending his knee before Van, “you saved my daughter when I could not.” He said as he closed his eyes.

“You saved the one thing that I treasured in this world.”

“Father…” Cerille mumbled, placing her palms over her mouth as her father lowered his head.

“For that, I thank you deeply,” Nickelson continued.

Van sighed deeply as he let go of the bone dragon and turned to face Nickelson.

He was about to speak again, with Varlog and Yilla standing in his peripheral vision.

“…Sure. And don’t worry, even if you had apologized, I’d never have forgiven you,” Van said flatly.

“So, stand up, Nickelson,” he added, prompting Nickelson to raise his head and look at Van as he removed his helmet.

“And let’s think about what to do next.”

———————————————

[AUTHOR HERE… TOOK DA DAY OFF TO WRITE THIS, THE MINI-ARC’S FINAL CHAPTER IS UP NEXTTTTTTT]

[THANKS FOR READING YALLLLLLLLL I FEEL LIKE I WON 100,000 COMPETITIONS WITH EVERY COMMENT YOU WRITE]

[2025 Hazy here – wrote this when I uploaded mainly to wattpad. Many readers were introduced to my stories there 🙂 By the way, thank you for reading!]

“THERE!!” Cerille cried as she and her father, Nickelson, rode atop the Pegasus. “The two demonic energy sources are coming fast from the south! I’d reckon they’ll be here in no more than two minutes!”

She then turned to her father. “SIR, WHAT WILL YOU HAVE ME DO?” she called enthusiastically.

But Nickelson remained silent, his gaze fixed on the south.

“Sir…?” she muttered, noticing his unusual silence.

“Sir, what’s our plan?” she urged.

“… There is no plan, Cerille,” he muttered softly, signaling the Pegasus to turn to the side. “We’re leaving the Capital for good.” His voice was steady as the Pegasus began moving away from the impending battlefield.

Cerille’s face tensed at his words. “SIR!!” she called, noticing his lack of response as he focused on guiding the Pegasus away.

“FATHER!!” she cried, clutching his sides, causing him to flinch slightly. “THIS IS NO TIME FOR JEST! YOUR… YOUR KNIGHTS, YOUR CITY… EVERYONE TRUSTS US TO PROTECT THEM!”

“Cerille,” Nickelson interjected calmly.

“NO, FATHER! I KNOW IT ISN’T MY PLACE TO QUESTION YOUR ORDERS, BUT WE SWORE AN OATH TO PROTECT OUR—”

“CERILLE!!!” he screamed, his voice echoing across the plains, silencing his daughter.

Cerille’s face paled as she sensed his suppressed distress.

“Do you even… fathom… what a Mythical Rank is?” he asked gently.

Cerille remained silent, her expression shocked.

“Arutol, the Dragon King’s offspring, was L. Legendary. With a single breath, he could have destroyed our Capital if the Goddess hadn’t intervened.”

“B-but,” Cerille stammered reluctantly, “Y-you’d have protected us! You’re almost an L rank yourself, and—”

“DON’T BE NAIVE, MY DAUGHTER!!” he shouted, silencing her again.

“The people need something to believe,” he continued. “With Magus Veil’s death, all they had was me… and that PARTY of his.”

“But the truth is, my strength peaked a long time ago, at S. I can feel it in my bones. I’m… too old, and my magic power will not grow any stronger than this. I was never close to L Rank. Magus Veil, however, was on the verge of Mythical before he died.”

“I… Father… I-I get it! I get it! You exaggerated your strength! I GET IT! I DO!!” she cried, her voice cracking, tears streaming down her cheeks. “YOU DID IT SO THAT THE PEOPLE WOULD HAVE FAITH IN YOU, IN OUR KNIGHTS!”

“But… This… This…!! This is just a mere two-rank difference! If… IF ANYONE COULD DO SOMETHING TO SAVE US… IT’S YOU!!!”

Nickelson turned to his daughter as he remained seated atop the Pegasus.

And that was when Cerille’s heart sank. The moment she gazed upon her father’s expression as he tightly grasped her shoulder.

“A-ah… F-father… You’re hurting… me…” she squirmed slightly as he held her close.

“My foolish… foolish daughter…”

“…?” She gasped.

“I was once like you. Naive. I believed there was such a thing called ‘the right thing to do,’” he said.

“But that was before I witnessed the power of a Mythical Rank threat, during the Great War,” he murmured, and Cerille could feel his palms shaking.

“It wasn’t even a fight…” he murmured, recalling the Demon Lord, lounging bored atop her mighty bone dragon as her demons laid waste to a village Nickelson had sworn to protect.

Women. Children. Men. The elderly.

… Infants.

The demons slaughtered everyone, torching the village.

Despite standing among corpses, Nickelson, still a hopeful man, stood strong.

He fought against countless demons, dominating them with his battle prowess and endurance, dozens at a time. Soon after, he fought and defeated a Demonic Vice General.

Then, the Demon Lord herself happened upon the battlefield, spotting him.

Curious, she ordered her bone dragon to land.

‘The Demon Lord,’ he thought.

‘This aura… It’s unmistakably her! I… I can do it! SOMEHOW, I CAN END HER RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW, AND STOP THIS WAR!’ he resolved, pointing his sword at her.

Believing he had a chance as he faced her and her bone dragon.

The Demon Lord, however, seeing his defiant expression, decided to test him.

She ordered the dragon to blow a gust of wind strongly toward the heavens, which were covered with ashes and thunderclouds, stretching for miles.

With a single blow. A single gust of wind.

The sky cleared in an instant before the knight’s eyes, and the stars shone from horizon to horizon.

The demons all around cheered for their queen who had come in person.

It was then that Nickelson knew what true fear was.

“Human,” she began, “do you know why I don’t destroy you and your precious Capital this instant? Why I give you a chance to struggle?” she muttered as Nickelson lost the strength in his knees. She gently walked off the dragon, approaching the kneeling, defeated Nickelson.

“Because of them,” she said, turning her head toward her soldiers.

“They like the thrill of battle. Those fools revel in the verge of death, the chance to reunite with the Archdevil. If I don’t quench that thirst…” She knelt beside the cowering knight.

“They’ll start killing each other. Such are demons. Like you, we have our innate desires, but we proudly express them,” she whispered before standing again, looking at Nickelson with pity. “That’s not our main reason for starting this war, I assure you… But this is our way of doing it.” She climbed back atop her bone dragon.

“My brethren,” she called lightly as the bone dragon raised her high.

“YES, MY LORD!” they all screamed.

“This battle ends in our victory. Now… move on to the next location.” She gave Nickelson one final look.

“Everyone on this battlefield is dead,” she said before looking away and flying off with her dragon.

—————————–

“A single blow to the sky…” Nickelson recalled, “The only reason I survived was because she spared me. The residual aura on that battlefield was later evaluated. It was deemed Mythical. The only reason Magus Veil could face them… was because he had the Goddess’s blessing, which seals a demon’s prime strength, matching it to his own.” He looked manically into his daughter’s eyes.

“Do you see now, child? Do you understand? If you choose to face this threat, you will DIE. You… and I are mere ants to them. And so is everyone at the Capit—”

“NO…!!!” she shouted, pushing him away. “I DON’T ACCEPT IT!” she screamed.

“If you do not wish to put yourself at risk, FATHER, then I shall go in your place! I WILL DEFEND THIS CITY!” she defiantly shouted, readying herself to jump off the Pegasus.

“NO!” Nickelson cried as he latched onto her arm. “I… I CAN’T… I can’t lose you too!” he called, halting her departure.

“… You…” she murmured, looking away as her face contorted. “You already have…”

Nickelson momentarily lost his grip as he heard her speak. Cerille used that window to leap off the Pegasus, which snapped Nickelson back to his senses.

“CERILLE!!” he cried as she fell, determined to face the threat on her own.

Before long, she landed and sprinted south towards the presences, mere moments away.

‘I have to fight,’ she cried internally, tears streaming down her face as she ran through the plains, desperately trying not to recall her father’s actions, words, or his fearful expression.

‘I don’t care… I HAVE TO FIGHT…’

She saw a speck from afar, growing larger in the sky. Glancing back at the Pegasus, she noticed it and its rider gradually fading into the distance.

With a determined grit of her teeth, she pulled out her sword and assumed a stance.

‘Not just for honor or for Knights… But… But because…!’ she thought, Anne’s and Marcy’s faces appearing in her mind as she clenched her teeth, noticing the dragon and something bulleting toward her position.

And despite her best efforts, her father’s.

‘Because my family is here…!’ she thought as a stream of tears relentlessly flowed down her cheeks.

“RUUUUUUAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!” she roared moments before the dragon crashed right before her, enveloping the area in a gigantic cloud of dust.

‘Is it over?’ she thought.

‘Am I dead…?’

“Ahh… Dear young lady,” a calm, yet grunting voice pierced through, sounding as if it was directly before her.

Moments later, the dust cloud settled, and Cerille saw a towering Balrog Demon standing right before her eyes…

“W-what… What… ahhh…” she muttered and stuttered, bearing witness to the Balrog’s wide back…

…as it kept a gigantic bone dragon at bay from going any further.

“I do apologize if this may seem sudden, but care to move a little? It took quite a bit… to bring… this child down…” the Balrog spoke, straining itself. Its big, furred feet created two small craters in the ground as the bone dragon resisted its grip.

“A-ah… Ah…” Cerille froze, her eyes wide open. This was definitely an enemy, she thought.

Everything she was taught led to this moment.

The only thing she could see was her sword, pointed at his back. She had a once-in-a-lifetime chance for a free hit on a towering demon.

But… her gut told her that if she didn’t move as the Balrog suggested…

…she’d be in trouble.

“Grggh…! YOU… RESTLESS… CHILD!” Varlog called as he struggled against Liliac, gradually being pushed back.

Cerille, driven by instinct, sprinted out of the way. Just as she did, in an instant, the dragon pushed the Balrog backward over a few dozen meters.

Noticing the two were frozen for a few moments in place, she let out, “W-WHAT… WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?” she called out reluctantly to the Balrog.

“Grrrrg… This child grew restless… and wanted to visit a friend in this area… SO I… CAME TO BRING HIM BACK!” Varlog spoke as he wrestled with Liliac.

‘So… So…!’ A spark of hope intensified in her gaze as she watched the Balrog fight against the bone dragon. ‘They’re not here to fight us! In that case,’ Cerille then sprinted behind Varlog.

“YOUNG LADY… THIS MAY SOUND IMPATIENT OF ME, BUT… YOU MUST MOVE!”

‘Is she going to fight us!? This is troubling, I can’t protect her and fend off this child at the same time!’ Varlog thought, as Cerille cast a spell, sending her sword upwards, holding it high above her head.

“HOLY LIGHT!” she screamed as sunlight appeared from her sword, behind Varlog.

‘I’ll try to blind that dragon and give the Balrog a better chance at subduing it!’ she thought, noticing the bone dragon wasn’t relenting in the slightest.

“Ah… Young lady. I appreciate your valor, but you see, it has no eyes, as this is a bone dragon. Surely, you… noticed that, right?” Both Varlog and Liliac froze momentarily, as if to process the purpose of her actions.

Cerille stood frozen, a blush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks.

“I… I… I noticed…” she murmured shamefully, gradually feeling herself relax.

It was then that Liliac took the opportunity of the momentary distraction, sending its claw past Varlog toward Cerille.

Varlog’s attention snapped to the danger. ‘CRAFTY CHILD!’ he thought, shifting swiftly to take the claw deep into his shoulder to shield Cerille.

‘Ahh… That demon… Took that hit… For me…?’ She thought in confusion and slight awe.

“Grrgh!” he grunted as blood spurted from his wound. “What, did you grow so childish in your temper tantrum as to take that spell from this young lady personally? You foolish little…!” Varlog scolded, but Liliac hadn’t relented. The dragon flicked its long tail toward Varlog, sending him flying out of the way, leaving Cerille exposed.

The dragon unleashed its roar on Cerille, causing her to stumble backward and fall on her behind, staring up at the towering beast looming over her menacingly.

‘That strong Balrog… was… flicked away in an instant… I’m… I’m done for!’ she thought, looking up at Liliac as he prepared his claw attack once more.

“NO!” Varlog screamed as he struggled to rise.

‘I’m too far, I will not make it in time!’ he thought.

‘Ah… No matter,’ He thought, his eyes landing on a distant figure closing in with immense speed.

‘Is this…’ she thought, feeling her strength leave her as the bone dragon’s claw blocked the sun. ‘Is this what you felt… Father?’

She closed her eyes, preparing for the inevitable as the bone dragon sent its claw down toward her.

She was so focused on her doom that she failed to notice…

…the vile aura approaching from behind her at tremendous speed.

‘… Seeing as he’s here now,’ Varlog concluded in his thoughts.

“Sheesh,” he said, grabbing Cerille’s sword from the ground and using it to block Liliac’s strike.

[BACKGROUND MUSIC: PERFECT TIME]

“Even your bloodline is nothing but trouble, Nickelson,” he murmured beneath his helmet as the force of Liliac’s strike sent a large shockwave, destroying several layers of dirt and rock and creating wind pressure so great it tore the grass and flowers off the plains.

In that moment, everywhere was a danger zone, except for where Cerille lay; directly behind the figure with the vile aura.

“Y-you…” Cerille murmured as she opened her eyes, her sensory skills immediately going on full alert; recognizing this aura.

“That boy… from the pool!” Cerille exclaimed.

“Yeah,” he said, powerfully parrying Liliac’s claw away with such force it carved Liliac’s claw mark to the mountain’s side, a few kilometers away to the side, with sheer pressure.

Cerille’s eyes widened in disbelief as she watched an avalanche being caused right before her eyes. Her gaze snapped back to Van.

‘He parried that… The claw of that dragon that made my father afraid for his life… With this much ease…!’ Her breathing turned shallow, and her face paled as she glanced back at the armored figure.

‘Who… Who is he?!’ Cerille thought, bewildered.

“Van!” Varlog called as Van parried Liliac’s claw. Van then briefly turned his head to the Balrog.

‘Van… Wait… Van…? No way… Is he…!’

“Liliac has been recently fed and needs to be disciplined, so… please, do go all out this time, will you?” Varlog murmured.

None could see it, but Varlog knew…

… that grin hidden beneath Van’s helmet.

“Sure,” Van muttered.

‘I did say that using over 31,000 points in strength is something I should avoid…’

He thought as he tightened his grip on Cerille’s greatsword, preparing for an upward swing.

“BOY!!!” Van called out with newfound enthusiasm as Nickelson snatched Cerille away, bringing her to safety.

“F-father…” she muttered, looking up at him as he ran.

Yet she dared say nothing more as she watched his determined gaze to bring her somewhere safe, as he carried her in his arms.

“No one played with you for a while now, huh?!” Van shouted.

It was then that Liliac, unable to contain his enthusiasm, burst into flames, preparing to roar.

‘That child! Is he using all his strength?’ Varlog thought, concern etched across his face.

‘I did say that,’ Van repeated, his grin ever widening. ‘But… I won’t lie… I’m kinda curious.’

Nickelson knelt, covering his daughter as he saw the light of the embers from behind him.

‘Just how strong am I compared to you now?’

“[ACTIVE SKILL]…”

“[HARD SWING]!!!” Van growled as he swung the greatsword at Liliac, who roared his fiery breath at him.

And then, right before their eyes, both Liliac…

… and the mountain behind him…

… and the mountain behind that mountain…

… and the entire cloudline across the horizon…

The sound of the birds…

The rivers…

The wind… The very essence of chaos, calamity, and fire…

And the valley itself was cleaved in half. A singular mark carved upon the valley’s plains stretched all the way to the horizon and beyond. Some of the mountains on either side began collapsing, triggering violent avalanches visible even from within the valley.

“I…”

“Is…”

“Is that…”

“Is that… a god?” Cerille murmured.

The poor demonic maid screamed helplessly.

High up in the sky, straddling a dragon moving faster than most beings could comprehend, no one could hear her cry.

“LILIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACCCCCCCC!!!” she screamed, clinging to the bone nape of Alicia’s bone dragon for dear life as it flew at supersonic speeds, dangerously close to The Capital.

Internally, she couldn’t stop chastising herself, adrenaline coursing through her veins.

‘AAAAAAAH! STUPID, STUPID, STUPID! I’M GONNA CAUSE THE SECOND GREAT WAR! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!’

She peeked below her. The lush green lands, dense forests mixed with abundant rivers, and sprawling farmlands, along with the high snowy mountains on either side, made her realize with dread that they had long since crossed into the human realm.

“THEY DEFINITELY NOTICED US BY NOW! HOW CLOSE EVEN ARE WE TO THE CAPITAL!?” she screamed in turmoil, hoping the mighty bone dragon Liliac would hear her despair and halt.

He didn’t.

Someone else, however, did.

“Very close,” a calm yet piercing voice cut through the wind gushing against Yilla’s ears. The voice was so clear it seemed to vibrate inside her skull.

“AAAAAH!!” she screamed, snapping her head to see a familiar figure flying directly next to the bone dragon.

“AH…!” she gasped as tears climbed up her throat.

“You’ve been busy, dear Yilla,” he muttered, positioning himself atop the dragon, standing effortlessly on its nape bones where she clung on.

“V-…” she stammered.

Yilla, a demonic maid and one of the lead ones in The Demon Lord’s castle, was reckless, hotheaded, and straightforward. Yet even she couldn’t help but mumble as she gazed at the figure before her.

“Varlog…~~” she cried in relief, her tears instantly being pushed away by the violent winds.

“There, there,” he said, gently extending his furred palm to brush her head as he kneeled in front of her, serving as a boulder that blocked the wind from smashing against her face. “I can guess what transpired. You really need to work on holding yourself back, dear,” he calmly scolded.

“I’m sorry… I’m sorry…” she sobbed, “But I missed him… So I told Liliac where he was from the note you sent… It slipped unintentionally..!” Tears stained her cheeks once more.

Varlog tilted his head at the distressed maid with a soft sigh.

“I understand, child, but let’s get you off of dear Liliac first, hm? I don’t mind you crying, but this is hardly the place or time,” he said as he gently guided her hands off of Liliac’s nape bones and lifted her into a princess carry. He extended his giant brown wings, enveloping Yilla’s entire body, his sharp claws gently against her hair as he carried her.

He then started to fly, keeping pace with Liliac, gracefully slowing down and descending to the ground, placing the demonic maid on the lush, green grass.

“It has… been a while since you used that form,” she said, scrutinizing him with wonder as he laid her down.

“… Master Varlog,” she exclaimed, looking up, almost straining her neck to view his entire figure.

“Perhaps. But it is not yet time to gloss over things. Do tell me this, however, was the dragon fed?” he asked.

“Y-yes… I fed him just before we left,” she said, lowering her gaze.

“Ah… I understand,” he sighed. “Remain here, and stay hidden while I go to face this naughty child. We shall speak afterward,” he said before turning around and swiftly taking off, his wings creating one last strong gust of wind that brushed against Yilla as she watched him fly away.

“Hurry…” she muttered weakly, clutching her chest. “Please…”

‘Oh my, it appears as though this child picked up quite the pace after I removed dear Yilla,’ Varlog thought as he flew in the dragon’s wake.

‘Crafty, aren’t you? Since you realized that the only one who could stop you from interrupting dear Van…’ Varlog thought as he stretched his wings, then violently pushed against the winds, boosting himself to tremendous speed.

“IS ME,” he loudly growled with a smile as he burst forward in the clear sky, the bone dragon relentlessly parting every cloud in its way.

The race was on.

MEANWHILE, BACK AT THE CAPITAL…

“Damn that helmet-headed bastard…!! WHERE’D HE GO?!” Marcy exclaimed, regaining her balance and looking toward where Van had bolted. All she saw was a cloud of dust and a small crater where he once stood next to her.

Clicking her tongue, she prepared to run. ‘WHATEVER! I have to meet the girls,’ she thought, before a call came from behind her.

“Miss Veil!” a feminine voice called.

“What?!” she responded aggressively as she turned around.

“Oh, you’re that girl who almost bit it back at the pool. What do you want? I’m in a hurry!” she exclaimed angrily.

“O-oh, I just…” The girl’s voice grew meek as she curled a little, relenting from Marcy’s shout. “I saw that boy talking to you just now, so you must know him… I just want to say… If you could tell that boy I said thank—”

She began speaking, but was interrupted as the Capital’s loud emergency bells rang three times.

Code Black.

The highest threat level. The same as it was when Arutol was going to strike.

“I’VE GOT NO TIME FOR THAT! YOU, GET TO YOUR HOUSE! FIND YOUR PARENTS AND TELL THEM TO NOT LEAVE IT NO MATTER WHAT!” Marcy yelled urgently as she turned and bolted toward the guild.

AT THE SAME TIME, AT THE PLAINS; A FEW DOZEN KILOMETERS AWAY FROM THE CAPITAL…

“SIR!!” Cerille called out as she sprinted through the knight ranks to the front line.

“Cerille, you are a few seconds late,” a man clad in pristine silver and gold armor, some pieces covered with runes, stated firmly as he stood looking toward the horizon. The knights stood steadfast in the open field, not a single monster daring to approach them.

Cerille stood at attention, her hands glued to her sides as she straightened herself before the man. “Sincerest apologies, SIR! I was—”

“I don’t care,” he interjected, cutting her off.

“Just make sure it does not happen again,” he ordered, not turning to face her.

“YES, SIR!” she replied, her expression stoic.

“… Sir Nickelson sure is confident, saying we’d even have a chance to disobey orders in the near future…” the knights murmured amongst themselves.

“Cerille,” Nickelson called out, “Come here. Aaron, you too,” he instructed a nearby mage.

“SIR,” she and Aaron responded in unison, marching to the front.

“Oh, they’re going to do that now?”

“Yeah. Cerille’s aura sensory skills are among the best in the world. Combine that with Aaron, a B-Rank Magician’s Amplification, and she can extend her sensory range much farther, giving us a more accurate reading,” one knight explained.

“… Who are you telling this to?” another knight asked, raising an eyebrow.

“The newbies, obviously,” he replied, prompting his buddy to look around.

“There are no newbies here!”

“SILENCE!!!” Nickelson commanded.

During the chatter, Aaron placed his palm on Cerille’s back, and she closed her eyes, focusing on the supreme demonic pressure ahead of them.

“What do you feel?” Nickelson asked.

“I feel… T-two… No, THREE… Three demonic presences! I can make out the weaker one, but there are two that are… Practically equal! I’d dare say Mythical Rank!!!” she called out loudly, sweat beads traveling down her forehead and cheeks as they all stood under the scorching sun.

Gasps were heard.

“Three…!?” the knights began whispering, worry etching their faces.

“Is it Her…?” Nickelson mumbled to himself, tightening his grip around his sword. “Sir Nickelson, I can feel it too!” the mage Aaron exclaimed, “It’s as if… they’re using their magic as they advance!” he called out in worry.

“They’re scorching nearby villages, then…!” Nickelson gritted his teeth.

“Why would they do that!? Aren’t we at peace?”

“I guess treaties don’t mean much to Fiends!”

“I thought they were true to their word, like Magus Veil said! I suppose the Holy Church was right all along about them!” the knights murmured as Nickelson powerfully tapped the ground with his palm; a few steps ahead, a giant beam of light shot into the sky.

“That’s…!”

“Yeah…! He’s doing it!”

“MEN!” Nickelson called, drawing everyone’s attention. “I shall face this threat head-on! You lot will be in my way, so I shall go without you!” he declared as a giant, white, armored Pegasus appeared from the beam of light. He rushed and jumped onto it before his army.

They whispered amongst themselves in concern,

“On his own..!?”

“YOU SHALL STAY HERE,” he yelled, turning to them on his Pegasus, raising his sword to the sky, “AND DEFEND YOUR HOMES! NO MATTER WHAT IT TAKES!” he shouted.

Mythical Rank threat.

The highest level an adventurer has ever reached is Legend, and that adventurer, Magus Veil, is dead. In the capital, the highest-ranking adventurers and knights are at S, which is two ranks below the level required to handle such a threat. This two-rank difference is almost like the gap between heaven and earth.

However, many factors constitute a person other than a Rank, and while Nickelson himself is only S, on the verge of reaching L, one rank higher, he possesses a plethora of skills and strengths that the enemy might not anticipate. This includes strategy and foresight.

That’s why the knights weren’t too scared for their leader’s life.

They could feel his aura, and right now, his confidence.

Somehow, he will make it. Somehow, he will handle this.

Because he’s Nickelson, The King’s Right Hand.

Cerille, watching her father from below, the sun rays complementing his shining armor and face, couldn’t help but think about what Van had said about him.

‘A piece of shit… Hah. What a fool that wretch was. Whoever he was. Aunt Marcy’s judgment of character must have diminished over time if she chose to acquaint herself with such a foul individual. Although he might be rough and strict…’ Cerille thought as her father turned to her.

“CERILLE! COME WITH ME! I NEED YOUR SENSORY TO IDENTIFY MORE POTENTIAL TARGETS!” he called out, extending his hand to her. She immediately grabbed it, using his help to climb onto the Pegasus behind him.

‘… How could a man this brave and this strong be anything other than the greatest parent I could ask for?’ she thought as the Pegasus turned and flew upwards toward the demonic presences in the distance. The cries and cheers of the knights and adventurers echoed loudly in the background of the open, grassy plains where they were told to hold their position.

Around 20 minutes after Nickelson and his daughter left, the knights were still in awe of their commander’s display.

“He is the greatest man there is,” a knight murmured to his friends, their enthusiasm still evident on their faces.

“Indeed he is,” an elderly adventurer approached, drawing the attention of nearby adventurers and knights.

“Not many can face such a threat with such valor and strength,” he said, earning nods of agreement from those around him.

“Truly… I’ve been alive for many, many years. Yet I haven’t seen such bravery from anyone,” he continued, walking back and forth, gaining confidence as more heads turned in his direction.

“Not even the famed Hero, Magus Ve—” he began, but was cut off by a loud, supersonic boom from directly above, startling everyone.

All eyes turned to the sky, where the sound originated, as if a thousand thunders had struck at once.

A powerful gust of wind passed by from the heavens.

They were certain.

Something had just passed over them from the Capital towards the demonic presences.

And those who were sensitive…

… Felt a certain sense of doom as it passed by.

‘The knights are here… So, she must be up ahead,’ he thought. ‘I used most of my strength to jump… I hope I didn’t overdo it…’

He looked ahead, the metal helmet blocking the intense wind pressure from hitting his face…

… Not that it would’ve mattered either way in this case.

‘Alicia… I’m coming!’ Van thought.

Amoria strolled joyfully through the market, turning into a narrow alleyway.

Suddenly, the same guard who had hit on her while she was with Van began to follow her, his expression unreadable.

Amoria halted in the shadows of the alleyway.

“Just come out. I don’t have time for this,” she sighed.

“Alright, alright…” he chuckled, stepping out of the darkness.

“Well, well, well, Miss Veil… All alone,” he muttered as he approached.

At first glance, one might underestimate Amoria. Despite her gentle appearance, she was stronger than most, having traveled with Magus. She held more cards than she let on…

Indeed, she had.

“Ugh,” Amoria rolled her eyes and tossed a coin bag towards the ‘thug’. “Here. I put in a little extra for your effort,” she murmured disdainfully. He caught the coin purse and examined its contents.

“Thank you, miss. As always, it was a pleasure…” he replied, rubbing his bruised back from her earlier attack.

He began to giggle as he counted the coins.

“Anything else you wanted to discuss?” she asked impatiently.

“No, no… It’s just funny, that’s all. Seeing how far you’re going to impress that kid. I couldn’t help but laugh,” he added. Amoria’s fingers twitched slightly. “The only thing he found flawed about me is my teeth, and he clung to it… Isn’t that cute? It’s like his first time dissing anyone, in a desperate attempt to defend this oh-so-gentle lady,” he jeered.

Amoria took a deep breath and looked up at the clear sky above the trashed alleyway.

“Ahh… Mr. Henry. Former Knight of the famed First Battalion…” she addressed him.

“You see, normally, I’d actually try to hurt you for saying something like that to me,” she began, turning around with a smile. “But when you opened your mouth just now, I could tell someone had already spoon-fed you with shit earlier today, from all the way over here. It seems he hadn’t clung to it for no reason.” She smiled again, but it never reached her deadpan eyes.

The man twitched slightly. “… And she’s funny too,” he added.

“As for me wanting him to see me one way or another… That’s my business. As always.” She continued walking down the alleyway.

“So scary…” he called playfully as she walked away.

A moment later, he pondered. “She did call that kid Van… And that kid… Looks… awfully similar to—…” he muttered, thinking while walking away. “Ah..! That means…” He realized, a lightbulb going off in his mind.

“Meaty is finally back after all this time…” he murmured, a joyful snicker stretching across his lips.

——————

“Have you calmed down a bit?” Marcy casually asked, her deep red eyes facing forward as she led Cerille out of the pool area by her surprisingly delicate ear. Her touch, wasn’t as casual as her tone.

“Y-yes… Yes…! I’m sorry, Aunt Marcy…!” Cerille cried, while Van and Anne walked side by side, unable to suppress a slight pity for the girl.

“So, you were childhood friends then?” Van asked.

With a soft exhale, Anne replied, “Yeah. But that’s as far as I’ll say.”

“Fair enough,” Van replied casually.

“That aside,” she continued, “you owe me some explanations, Van. What was that all about?” Anne corrected herself, glancing at the agonized Cerille. “You flipped out when you heard who her father is.”

“I… heard something from my old man about him,” Van started, clearing his throat. He then glanced at Anne’s curious expression as she leaned in, “… But that’s as far as I’ll say,” he added slyly.

“Man, you’re really immature,” she scoffed. “Why the hell am I even hanging out with you still?”

Van chuckled lightly as they continued walking.

Meanwhile, Marcy and Cerille had their own conversation…

“What won’t you ever do again?” Marcy pressed.

“Mindlessly pull my sword out…!! Mindlessly pull my sword out in public…!! I had no idea he was your acquaintance, Aunt… Please, I’ve learned my lesson..!!” Cerille cried with quiet gasps.

“OH? So, if he WASN’T my acquaintance, you wouldn’t be sorry?” Marcy’s voice boomed as she pulled harder on her ear.

“A-AH… That’s not what I meant…! Any potential threat needs to be treated as such..!! I HAD NO CHOICE…!!” Cerille protested.

Marcy looked at Cerille with a soft, sympathetic frown. “Is that what you’d have said to that girl’s family after accidentally killing her?” she asked, her grip on Cerille’s ear loosening.

Cerille lowered her gaze, speechless.

Marcy sighed deeply, noticing her contemplative pause, and let go of her entirely.

“I’ll forgive you this once. Just be mindful of your peers. No one’s going to console you at a passerby’s funeral.”

Cerille straightened herself and looked at Marcy.

“Alright… And, Aunt Marcy, may I ask the identity of this boy?” she asked, her gaze determined.

Marcy hesitated.

“Aunt…?” Cerille pressed, noticing Marcy’s lack of response.

“Ahh… It’s gonna come out at some point,” Marcy said loudly, scratching her head in frustration. “He’s Va—”

Just then, Cerille’s attention darted elsewhere. She carefully placed her palm on her ear, not because it hurt.

Marcy narrowed her eyes as she watched her.

“Something’s wrong with her?” Van asked, noticing Cerille’s sudden movement.

“Oh,” Anne answered, glancing at Cerille, “she’s probably talking to someone through [Vibration].” The statement caused Van to raise his eyebrow.

“You’re not from the Capital, so you wouldn’t know. It’s a magical apparatus my late father developed that allows people to contact each other from afar in a snap; all you need is two pieces of the same magical vibration, which can be tuned by a C-Rank Magician. Apply your magic, and you can talk from really far. It’s been commercialized only recently, so not many people have it.” She explained, but then her expression softened as she lowered her gaze, “He was alone a lot of the times, so he kept himself occupied with things like that,”

Van looked at Anne, his expression deadpan and resigned.

“W-what is it…?” she asked, a little weirded out by his lack of response and gaze. “You’re creeping me out…”

‘Dude invented the walkie-talkie and called it [Vibration]… At least call it by its proper name. Don’t you have some respect for our founding fathers!?’ Van thought, his eyebrow frozen upwards.

“I understand. I shall use your teleportation stone then, SIR!” Cerille called, straightening her posture and turning her attention to Marcy.

“I need to go now, Aunt! There’s a mission and—”

“I know.” Marcy firmly stated, “I heard about it. I’d appreciate if that guy didn’t put his daughter through something like that… But I ain’t one to tell others how to raise their kids,” She said, clicking her tongue in frustration at Cerille.

“… Right,” Cerille acknowledged weakly as she looked away, pulling a stone from her waist pocket.

“Be careful,” Marcy added, her voice slightly softer as Cerille crushed the stone. Cerille nodded as she dissipated into thin air, leaving Anne, Van, and Marcy alone.

‘That thing she just used was a teleportation stone, right? Even with all my travels, I’ve only come across five of them, including the one Magus had. Must be quite the mission to use something so valuable,’ Van thought, slightly narrowing his eyes.

“Anne,” Marcy called firmly, “go to your house. I heard what happened at the pool, so someone here needs scolding.” She glanced at Van.

Anne immediately perked up, her shoulders tightening.

“Uh, m-mom, we kinda decided to—” Anne muttered, glancing between Van and her mother.

“ANNE. Now.” Marcy ordered, her arms folded and glaring.

“… Fine,” Anne said, giving Van a final glance before walking away with a slight slouch, leaving Van and Marcy alone.

“Is she fine?” Van asked.

“You’ve been with her,” Marcy replied. “You tell me.” She signaled him to walk with her, and he complied without issue.

“Well, I wasn’t the only one who got trashed at the pool, let’s just say,” Van admitted.

“Don’t be pulling my leg now. My Anne? Bullied? She’d tear at any bastard’s skull if they tried,” Marcy stated firmly.

“… You think so?” Van asked.

Marcy sighed. “She might be a bit awkward in a crowd, something she got from me, but she wouldn’t let anyone step on her, no matter what.”

“Well, the kids around her make her a hot topic. The fact you made it there and that you know what happened with Nickelson’s daughter, I thought you were aware,” Van said.

“Speaking of which… How did you know we were there?” he added.

Marcy looked at him for a few seconds, her expression contemplative.

“I came here to tell you news about the Quest,” she started after a small pause. “Got good news… and bad news.” Her voice trailed off, her eyes darkening a little.

“What about Anne? I think it’s a little more pressing than—”

“I’ll talk to her,” Marcy snapped. “She’s my daughter, not yours,” she added hurriedly.

Van kept his gaze squarely on Marcy, remaining silent.

“Got a problem with that?” she said, her tone slightly more aggressive. Yet to Van, she seemed to be holding herself back for some reason.

Nevertheless, he couldn’t help but feel a small twitch in his abdomen at Marcy’s words.

‘I suppose asking her why she doesn’t live with her daughter, or telling Marcy that I’m her kid’s uncle is why I care wouldn’t be smart,’

‘Or even right, for that matter,’

“No. I don’t. I overstepped my boundaries, sorry. What’s the details about the quest?” he replied casually, his gaze momentarily cast downwards.

‘That’s right. And the moment she finds out about the truth, she will go for my throat. Stop getting so comfortable with them, dumbass.’

“Good news…” she started with a sigh. “It was…” she stuttered, “…an S-Rank Quest that came out a few hours ago. Enough pay to maintain a castle and 15 souls living in it for a year in luxury.”

“Bad news, the Royal Knights seized the quest due to its nature and changed the Quest’s Rank to Mythical about an hour ago,” she said, looking to the sky and sighing deeply once more.

Van tilted his head. “What…? Mythical…!?”

“Yes…” she said, trying to stop herself from shivering.

‘She must’ve not wanted Anne to see her like that,’ Van thought briefly as he scrutinized Marcy.

“When they came by and seized it, they then sent the entire 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Battalions with over 1000 Royal Knights… and every A-Rank Adventurer and above willing to volunteer after giving it that Ranking.” She cleared her throat. “We’re on the brink of an emergency, actually. Something that most likely far exceeds Arutol or anything we’ve ever faced… Our party included, Van; now that Magus isn’t here.” She murmured, her voice barely a whisper.

“What was it?!” Van asked.

“It was…” She took a deep, shaky breath. “Supreme demonic pressure detected just south of here. Moving at incredible speeds… Towards the Capital,” she murmured, looking sideways with a deep frown, her muscles tensing slightly.

“I contacted the girls just a few moments before I arrived… We should be ready to move out ourselves in—” Marcy continued.

But her voice faded into the background for Van.

His face paled, yet his heart pounded with excitement and a sense of longing he hadn’t realized was this intense.

‘Could it be…’ he gasped, looking to the south.

‘Alicia…!’

“… Van?” Marcy muttered, noticing him frozen, his expression hidden as he glanced southward.

“I’ll pay you back, Marcy.”

“For what..?” she asked, puzzled.

“For the gear I’m going to take from your guild,” he said, before creating a sudden supersonic boom and sprinting towards the guild’s storage area. The force he took off was so powerful, it caused Marcy to tumble slightly.

In this world, beings can sense Aura.

Aura strongly indicates a person’s nature and has been a key indicator since ancient times. It was used to decide whether to start or end wars, determine trade and alliances, and condemn criminals to execution or set them free. Consequently, Van was treated unfairly due to his passive skill, Untrusted, which made most beings instinctively distrust him, even those insensitive to Aura.

This reliance on Aura taught all races, except demons who couldn’t sense it, to depend heavily on their intuition, outer appearances, and glamour rather than facts and deductive capabilities. Even Amoria, one of the most sensitive to Aura, relied on it heavily… Until 17 years ago, a bit after she met Van.

“…When I first saw Van, I seriously preferred to fall into the death pit he got me out of,” she reminisced. “I thought the Archdevil themselves, or something much darker, had descended to this realm from deep within Arataxia, the Realm of our Dear Goddess,” She paused, looking up at the person.

“Which is one of the reasons I fell for him,” she added with a smile. “Despite having that kind of aura, he never stopped being such a darling. He was more human than anyone I’ve ever met, and yet, much more than that. It was as if I discovered a diamond buried in tar. And I figured we would work out. I would balance that Aura of his, and he would balance whatever nastiness I possess,” she said, taking a sip of tea. “He shone much more brightly than my late husband.”

“I see… But then he… left? Despite you loving him so deeply?” Hicks asked, playing with his mustache and narrowing his eyes at Amoria.

“…” Her expression darkened momentarily. “…Sir Hicks, how much do you know about Magus?”

“Hmm… Not much,” he began, looking up at the ceiling of the tavern as he recalled details about the famed Hero. “He was the hero who traveled with you all. He had immaculate charm and was the strongest of this era.”

“What about his skills?” she pressed.

“As the Royal Knight Captain of the Second Battalion, I haven’t had access to that kind of information, you know that, Miss Veil. Why do you ask?” he pondered, lowering his gaze back to Amoria.

“…Nothing. Just curious,” she said, taking another quick sip and closing her eyes dismissively.

“Either way, why did he leave if you lov-“

Amoria immediately cut him off with a bright smile. “Forget about that for now!” she called cheerfully. “Are you going to do what I asked?”

Hicks could tell Amoria was avoiding his question. Yet, out of respect for her, he chose not to press the matter.

“I will do what I can, since it is your request, Miss Veil. But why? If he wishes to buy a house, let him buy a house…” Hicks argued softly.

“Sir Hicks, we just talked about this,” Amoria started, a tinge of irritation and impatience in her voice, yet forcing a somewhat dignified manner of speech. “If you take his Aura into consideration, he might get bad prices, or people might try to con him, or there might even be an attempt on his life. Wouldn’t that be bad? And his name would be recorded in the house owner’s list. He will have many enemies and-“

Hicks carefully raised his palm and interrupted Amoria. “But dear Miss Veil, he slayed Arutol, The Dragon King’s own son!” Hicks argued. “I’m certain no one in the capital can even make an attempt on the life of someone of his caliber, with all due respect to our Royal Knights and the King! And I will ensure that he is not conned in any way! He is the man I owe my, and my knights’ lives to; vile Aura or not.”

Amoria then smiled a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes, which were now almost glaring at Hicks, causing him to shiver slightly.

“Hicks, please, do as I asked,” she said, her tone firm and icy. “We don’t know for certain what kinds of threats exist in the capital, so you cannot be sure he will be completely safe. Prevent him from buying a house. He will be safest staying with me. Am I clear?” She spoke calmly, yet Hicks felt as if he was being roared at for some particular reason.

After a small scratch of his mustache and a soft sigh, he relented. “As you wish… Considering it is your request, Miss Veil, I shall execute it to the last detail.”

“Thank you,” she greeted. “And… you do have that other matter covered, as I’ve requested as well, right?” She prodded.

“Oh… Yes, I’ve already spoken to Grandmaster Apollo. He said you would be a most welcome addition, considering your prowess and knowle-“

“Excellent. Have a great day. Send my regards to your wife from me,” she firmly interjected, getting up from her seat and walking away. Hicks began sighing in relief just as she stopped halfway to the tavern door.

“One more thing,” she muttered.

“Y-yes..?”

“Call me Amoria from now on. Miss Veil is… too general for my taste. Instruct your knights to do the same. This is no longer a request… or an age matter, in case you wondered.” she instructed.

“O-of course…” he replied, trying his hardest not to let his confusion and anxiousness show.

With a nod, Amoria swiftly left the tavern.

‘It isn’t as if I can’t guess why she asked me those things… But I wonder what happened between her and the Hero to make her show such a scary attitude regarding dear Van…’

‘Hah… Either way, I should hurry home… or my wife will pull my ear out.’ Hicks deeply sighed.

Meanwhile, Amoria walked outside, smiling at every passerby and at the warm sun that greeted her.

‘Hopefully Lizzy will also see it before she has to go to the Academy… Van’s nature. It would be nice.’

“Ah, I almost forgot about him,” she innocently recalled as she took a turn.

‘And, it’s in the way of the grocery market… Perfect. I’ll make something both Lizzy and Van will love!’

‘What a beautiful day today is.’

Indeed, even among the races, some people are much more sensitive to Aura.

Cerille, Greatknight Nickelson’s daughter, was one of them: she was extremely intuitive, even among the elites when it came to sensing others. This sensitivity was part of the reason she advanced to E Rank and became a Knight-In-Training despite still being a teen.

… And why shepulled her sword against Van.

“VAN!? What are you doing!!? We were going to fight her!” Anne called out as she saw Van resign.

“That dumb kid finally realized he’s no match for her!”

“Coward.”

“Starting trouble like that with no shame…! What a bastard!” the crowd whispered as Van stopped resisting his arrest.

‘Just like that…? He gave up?’ Cerille thought.

“It’s not worth it, Anne.” Van started, “It’s not as if our lives are in danger.”

“What…!?” Anne said, narrowing her eyes at Van. “So, you were okay with me fighting you like I was gonna kill you in the pool, but you stop here after taunting Cerille like that!?”

“It was my mistake to respond to her provocations and get angry. And this isn’t just about me or this girl anymore. What if this ends up hurting you or your mom?” Van said as he approached Cerille, his arms lifted for handcuffs. “Think about your future,” Van added as he got close to Cerille.

‘… At least he’s somewhat reasonable,’ Cerille thought as she detached a pair of cuffs from her belt, her glare still firm on Van.

“FUCK OFF!! IF YOU’RE GONNA START A FIGHT, FINISH IT!” Anne cried out as Cerille hurriedly pulled out a magic seal bind.

“Dear Goddess, shut up, you stupid whore!” a teen boy called to Anne from the side, prompting more to do the same.

“ENOUGH! You lot will be silent!” Cerille commanded, glancing to the side. Van followed suit soon after.

‘…As my Perception increased, I’ve found it much easier to remember details…’

‘… That includes faces.’

Van thought as he momentarily glared at the children. ‘I thought about taking it easy and hiding my strength once joining the Academy. Protecting this girls from the shadows without drawing attention to myself.’

‘…But that is merely the act of a coward, right, Varlog?’ He thought as he mentally markedthe children who cussed at Anne.

“H-hey… What’re you looking at, freak!?” the same teen yelled, startled by Van’s intensity.

“Turn that ugly face away from us, bastard! You’re lucky Lady Cerille has you!”

“YEAH! IF IT WERE US WE’D HAVE TORN YOU TO-“

“ENOUGH!!! YOU LOT BE SILENT, OR ALSO BE ARRESTED!” Cerille’s voice boomed.

Van then glanced at Cerille, slightly pursing his lips as she hushed the teen group.

‘…At least she’s somewhat fair,’ he thought.

“This is a C-Rank Magical seal… Don’t even think about trying to resist, fiend,” Cerille said as she turned to Van and handcuffed him.

‘Cute,’ he thought as he glanced at the seal.

“Sure, Greatknight Nickelson’s Daughter,” Van called with slight mockery.

“This is Lady Cerille to you, criminal,” she retorted, causing the mob around them to cheer even more.

“DON’T IGNORE ME!!” Anne screamed, causing Cerille and Van to turn to her.

“You can’t…” Anne started, looking down in defeat. “You can’t let them have their way with you like that… Or they’re gonna keep stomping you,” she said, her voice trailing off.

“You’re mistaken, Anne Veil,” Cerille said as she grabbed Van by the handcuff, ready to lead him out. “This isn’t bullying or stomping. This is arresting a threat to society. You would do well to acknowledge that,” she said loudly, causing everyone around them to cheer for her.

“And I decided not to arrest you, as a token of our past friendship. Please, do not get yourself into trouble from now on,” Cerille stated to Anne as she turned and started walking away.

“Bullshit,” Anne said, causing her to stop.

“You’re no different from them,” Anne blurted as she glanced at the other teens. “The only reason you don’t arrest me is that your oh-so-important public image will elevate. That’s the only thing you ever cared about. You were NEVER my friend!”

Van could feel a small twitch from Cerille’s grasp as she held him.

‘Oh…?’ Van thought, raising an eyebrow.

“How ignorant…” Cerille murmured, almost to herself.

“What!!?” Anne called out.

“Never mind,” her voice boomed again as her attention briefly turned to Van. “Follow me, wretch. And prepare to face justice.”

It was then Cerille bumped into someone.

“Who is-!” Cerille called, but was soon cut off.

“A wretch, you say…?” a voice boldly inquired as the person standing grabbed and twisted Cerille’s ear, pulling her aside.

“A-Ahh!” she squirmed in agony as her ear was pulled and twisted, she inevitably leaned toward where she was pulled from to keep her ear in place.

“I had no idea our dear CeCe grew up to be such a pretentious brat that needs public scolding,” she called.

‘Phew…’ Van sighed internally as he saw her.

“L-look… That’s Marcilla Veil…”

“Oh… Shit… She’s… Look at how she’s handling Lady Cerille…”

“Cece..? Is she referring to Lady Cerille..?” the onlookers spoke.

“A-AUNT M-Marcy.. P-please… S-stop.. My ear will fall out..!” Cerille cried out as she held onto Marcy’s arm as she pulled her ear.

“You stay silent. You’ve lost your right to talk the moment you pulled your sword out in public without minding your peers.”

—————————————————————————————

Author here! Your comments honestly warm my heart – and pushed me to put the story on The Watty’s 2024 contest.

Frankly, even if it doesn’t win; I still want to see this story through. Regardless, I’d be thrilled if you decided to vote if you liked the story!

As for the story itself, don’t worry; I have a few things planned and I reread it every now and then to make sure I don’t miss anything important and that I don’t lose the plot (HOPEFULLY!)

With that being said, thanks for reading!

=======================

Ahem, 2025 Hazy here, yeah – it wasn’t even featured on the contender’s list xD Anyway, hope you enjoyed the chapter!

The Demon Lord’s Fall Saga, Chapter 7, Vol.2, 3rd Edition

Hero Magus and his party had just arrived at the village of Ardeil. A rural place where traders and envoys pass through and rest.

The villagers were of the common folk, joyful to have an abundant meal once a week, a roof over their heads, and fire to warm them.

The Hero, weary from travels and arduous battles, decided it would be best to recuperate in this small, yet warm place for a while.

Indeed, it was a warm place. Despite being between the Demonic realm and the human one, it was fairly peaceful. So warm, in fact, that our very Hero had made a new friend out of one of the villagers. A spirited youth, desperate to prove himself.

Hero Magus spotted the fearless youth protecting a fair lady of the village from several bandits, the eyes of the entire village on him. She stood behind the youth’s broad back, to which was attached a longsword, one of the most favored weapons for the aspiring Knight.

Eager to prove himself and defend this fair lady’s honor and safety, he drew the sword from his back, swung it high in the sky with practiced ease, and bravely pointed it at the bandit’s throat before the entire village and Hero Magus and his party.

Yet, this is not a tale of triumph, but a tale of caution.

Oh, dear reader who has read this far, do not follow in the footsteps of the youth.

The youth who hadn’t noticed the slight resistance placed on his blade as he unsheathed it.

The youth, who accidentally slayed the fair lady he had sworn to protect, nearly cleaving her in half from bottom to top as he recklessly drew the sword, miscalculating the distance between himself, her, and his blade’s reach.

The youth, who heard not cheers that day, but the loud gasps from all over, and the even louder cackle of the bandits he stood up to.

The youth, who had thought it rained due to the fair lady’s blood dripping on him from above as he swung his sword.

The youth who could not even live long enough to witness the fair lady’s wake, as he was hung even sooner.

Yet, even then, Hero Magus, unable to watch their new friend’s agony as he was hung, unleashed devastating flames, burning his asphyxiating body to ashes.

—————————————————————————–

“I… can’t move it?!” Cerille thought as Van placed his fingers on her greatsword.

“Grh… so, you admit your evil intentions!?” Cerille’s voice boomed.

“Curious, don’t you think?” Van swiftly retorted with a glare. “You label me evil despite me not doing anything yet. As befitting of a daughter of that piece of shit.”

“Not doing anything…!? You resist arrest, disrespect my honored father, and admit you’re a threat as I suspected! ANY THREAT IN THIS PLACE NEEDS TO BE SUBDUED!” she replied, applying even more force to move her greatsword. Even using muscle enhancement magic, it would not budge an inch.

“A piece of shit is a piece of shit. Him being ‘honored’ doesn’t change that,” Van dismissed.

“HEY, YOU TRASH! DON’T YOU DARE BESMIRCH GREATKNIGHT NICKELSON’S NAME!” the crowd roared.

‘He’s pushing it too far…!’ Anne thought, alarmed.

“Van, wait!” Anne called, running to his side and grabbing his shoulder. “Saying that is—” Anne started, but the riffraff’s voices boomed over hers.

“HOW DARE THAT KID DISRESPECT GREATKNIGHT NICKELSON’S NAME AND DAUGHTER!? HE SHOULD BE EXECUTED!”

“HE IS DEFINITELY UP TO NO GOOD! AN EXECUTION IS TOO MUCH FOR HIM! HAVE HIM TORTURED PUBLICLY!” another person yelled.

Soon, the entire mob gathered around them, openly dissing Van.

“We’re going to see Lady Cerille tear him apart! Let’s go!” the teens at the side whispered, excitement evident in their eyes.

Anne was about to try and stop Van, but as she heard the whispers, her grip on his shoulder loosened.

“Saying things like that without getting to know the guy…!” Anne growled silently as she took a stance next to Van, facing Cerille.

“Anne…! Are you betraying the Royal Capital by siding with this wretch!?” Cerille called as she tensed her muscles even more. “FINAL WARNING, GET AWAY FROM HIM!” she warned.

“Always knew she was a traitorous whore.”
“Bitch…” the girls and guys whispered amongst themselves.

Van glanced at the sword, tightly held between his fingers.

“COME ON, LADY CERILLE! KICK THESE BASTARDS’ ASS!” the crowd cheered.

Van took a moment to look around, his gaze landing back on Cerille.

Despite being the daughter of a figure he loathed, he felt she wasn’t a carbon copy of Nickelson. He recalled how she leaped to Anne’s aid when that spell was flung at her, and even now, giving Anne a chance to back off.

She was still young, the thought crossed his mind. Thus, she must be highly impressionable.

“W-…What are you…!?” Cerille muttered as Van shifted his fingers slightly.

Van then instantly let go of her greatsword when Cerille’s pull was at its peak.

“WAI—” Cerille let out as she inevitably swung the sword backward, the air of the swing grazing Van and Anne’s bodies.

With a gasp, Cerille could only glance back as her sword swung toward an unsuspecting passerby who had cheered for her.

‘NO…!’ Panic set in as she tried her hardest to stop the movement of her sword, yet the momentum’s force was so strong, she could only helplessly brace for the inevitable impact.

Cerille closed her eyes, mustering all her strength to stop her movements… Yet she knew it would be in vain.

An inch before the sword’s edge struck the passerby’s head, Van grasped her wrists and pulled her back by her shirt collar.

Her face turned pale, and the crowd went silent.

The passerby, a few seconds later, lost all strength in their knees and fell to the ground.

Cerille’s mouth hung open, her breathing shallow and rapid. Her eyes met Van’s gaze.

“Tell me something, daughter of that bastard, Nickelson,” Van began, his voice cold and piercing. “How do you label people as threats? By sensing their aura?” He stepped closer, eyes locked on hers. “Is that why I’m a threat? Is that why you would have felt guilt-free even if you’d accidentally killed someone, like you almost did just now?”

Cerille and the crowd had nothing to say the following seconds. Even the teens who had been laughing at Anne and Van went silent as Van guided Cerille’s greatsword back down with her hands.

Cerille’s words hung in her throat as her grip on the greatsword tightened.

“Lady Cerille,” an old man from the crowd began, his voice steady and authoritative. “Let not this wretch infect your mind. The fault would still be his, as he was deemed a threat by you, an esteemed enforcer of our Goddess and a dignified Royal Guard. If this fair lady had died, it would have been his deed, not your own.” He explained calmly, placing his hand on her shoulder.

“Y-yeah…!” someone from the crowd reluctantly shouted.

“YEAH, LADY CERILLE, IGNORE THAT EVIL BASTARD! ARREST HIM!” The crowd started to cheer again.

Anne clenched her teeth tightly as she looked around.

‘Even though he just saved that girl…!’ Anne readied her stance once more.

“R-right…!!” Cerille shook her head, pushing herself out of Van’s grasp. “You’re the one at fault here, fiend. You’re under arrest. Anne, back off, or this sword shall be swung in your direction as well! Whoever your mother may be!” Cerille resolved, raising her sword at Van once more.

‘Haaah… Well, her father might have fed me shit for three years, but he fed her for sixteen. She isn’t going to change in an instant, I suppose,’ Van resigned.

“Anne,” Van started calmly, still focused on Cerille, “this is on me. You don’t have to take part. What if they really do see you as a traitor?”

“You just shut up,” she let out. “Just like you, I’m gonna do what I want.” She took a stance. “Because nobody deserves this kind of treatment…” she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper as she gritted her teeth.

Van took a moment to look around. Beside Cerille, he could see plenty of other combatants ready to step in the moment a fight began.

His gaze then circled around to Anne. Nickelson and Cerille faded from his mind, replaced by Anne.

‘I promised I’d protect them,’ he thought to himself as he scrutinized Anne. ‘If it’s just me, I can take it. But not with her around. I can’t let her be a part of this.’

‘I’m her uncle, after all.’

“I give up,” Van let out, lowering his arm to his side, his face and muscles loosening.

‘What…!?’ Cerille thought, confused.

“Arrest me if you need to.”

After Van scrambled around, eventually making Anne get up from her princess carry to fetch two towels from a nearby stand, the two lay on the grass nearby, letting their bodies dry out in the sun as they looked up at the sky.

“Hey,” Anne called out.

“Hm?” Van responded, tilting his head slightly from looking up.

“Thanks,” she said flatly.

“For what?” he asked.

“For what,” she mimicked, rolling her eyes. “Can you just cut the crap and accept it? I’m tired of guys trying to act all cool with me.”

Van’s eyes widened before he laughed at her sudden aggression.

“Okay. If you keep laughing, I’m LEAVING,” she said loudly.

“No, no,” he waved dismissively. “It’s just nostalgic. You’re just like your mom,”

“Oh? She must’ve rubbed off on your own old man if you say it’s nostalgic,” Anne murmured, raising an eyebrow.

‘Oh, right, I’m Van junior…’ Van thought.

“A-ah, I suppose. No one here says that, huh?” Van asked.

She sighed deeply, turning to him. “Anyway, just accept my gratitude, dude. I might’ve been angry at the pool, but I’m not stupid. I saw what you did back there,” she said, her voice trailing off as she looked away. “…Except my folks, no one ever went out of their way like that for me,” she added quietly.

“Well, I was just having fun with my niec-…new friend,” Van quickly corrected himself.

“…Pfft. Bastard,” Anne said with a soft chuckle, her posture relaxing as she looked up at the sky.

A few seconds went by. Then Anne gave a deep yawn as she stretched her sore limbs.

Van glanced at her, noticing her eyes getting heavier.

“Well, I’ve pretty much dried up. Wanna go?” Van asked.

“Oh, uh… I-I don’t know… isn’t friends lying outside next to each other, looking up for no reason, something special?” Anne mumbled as she scratched her cheek.

“No idea,” Van replied flatly.

“I just mean… we came here only like an hour ago… shouldn’t we stay? Make use of the day?” Anne said.

“If you’re tired, we can just call it a day. It’s cool,” Van said with a shrug.

“Look, dude, I don’t really know what to do. I just know… if we made it all the way here, we gotta stay,” Anne said, looking away, her eyes searching the grass for words.

“Why?”

“Because… it wouldn’t be cool to leave just an hour after coming here. We barely did anything. Friends, or people who are…” She hid beneath her short hair, “C-close, do more with their time… I can just sleep at night, right?” Her voice wavered.

“Says who? Those jerks you hate?” Van glanced at the sneering group.

“Smug bastard,” she said, punching his shoulder with a smirk.

‘Woah… It’s like hitting armor,’ she thought, gasping softly.

“Either way, if you’re tired, you should go. Unless you like sleeping on grass?” Van said, offering his hand.

Anne bit her lip. “Is it… really okay to end it so early?”

“Yeah. Take it easy,” he assured, not thinkingtoo hard on what he was going to say.

“Sure…” Anne felt his calmness infecting her as she took his hand, and he pulled her up.

Feeling loose and at ease, she spoke “Before I go to sleep though, I want food, but I don’t have the strength to go out,” she said, brushing off grass. “Come to my place, I should also have something frozen for you.”

‘W-wait, did I seriously suggest that…?’ she thought, blushing.

“Sure, I’m cool with that. Lead the way,” Van said with a shrug. ‘I’m not tired, and I’ve got nothing else to do. I wonder how comfy her couch is…’ Van mused, comparing it to Amoria’s bed.

‘I hope I’ll have enough from the quest to buy a bed like Amoria’s guest room after renting a place… Varlog’s couch was nice, but not an actual bed.’ Van thought. As he thought of Varlog, he inevitably brought up Alicia’s image.

‘Forget that, I want to sleep on Alicia’s bed, preferably, with her in it,’ Van decided.

As Van dreamt of sleeping on beds, being deprived of a proper one for the past 16 years; Anne, embarrassed, led him out of the pool area.

‘Wait, Anne doesn’t live with her mom…?’ Van realized.

Just then, Cerille, a tall girl with long blonde hair and a greatsword, arrived at the group that mocked Anne.

“Look, it’s Cerille!” one boy pointed out.

“The Greatknight’s daughter! An E-Ranker, even at her age! What is she…”

“Cerille!” a friend called as she approached her group.

Cerille noticed the crowd staring into the distance.

“What seems to be the commotion here?” she inquired as she walked over to them.

“Ah… Cerille. It’s just that musclehead again, Anne. She brought a weird boy with her,” a girl said.

“Ew, imagine hanging out with that workhorse of a girl… What a weirdo. I bet he does that just because he’s desperate.”

“But look at those muscles… I don’t like him either, but he can seriously do better,” another girl pointed out, her eyes glinting with desire as she looked at Van’s toned body.

Cerille’s eyes locked onto Van with intense scrutiny, her expression growing increasingly grim.

“Cerille? Are you okay?” a girl asked, noticing her sudden intensity.

“That aura… that boy… is dangerous!” Cerille blurted out as Van and Anne neared the exit.

‘We’re really walking to my house. What am I going to do?’ Anne thought, still flustered.

Suddenly, Cerille stepped between them and the exit, her greatsword pointed at Van’s throat.

“HALT. By the name of the Royal Guard, you are detained for questioning!” Cerille declared.

‘Ah, I was wondering when that would happen,’ Van thought with a sigh. ‘But she shouldn’t draw that sword so abruptly in such a crowd…’

Anne gasped, her eyes widening before turning angry.

“Hey, Cerille! What’s the big idea?” Anne yelled, drawing attention.

“Isn’t that the King’s Hand’s daughter?”

“I heard Cerille was enlisted in the Royal Guards before attending the Academy. Is she making an arrest?”

“This boy looks suspicious…”

“Something about him is off!”

“If Cerille thinks so, it must be true!” onlookers whispered.

‘The King’s Hand? Is she Greatknight Brennan’s daughter? He was one of the few kind souls among the Royal Guard’s high ranks. To think his daughter is this reckless,’ Van thought as he scrutinized Cerille.

“What are you doing? He’s my friend! Piss off to your daddy!” Anne yelled, stepping between Cerille and Van, who remained relaxed.

“Anne Veil. Step away from this person. He’s dangerous. I can sense a vile aura around him, unlike any demon’s or human’s! Stay back for your own safety!” Cerille ordered.

“I won’t! YOU back off! He’s not a threat!” Anne defied.

“How DARE that girl talk like that to Greatknight Nickelson’s daughter!” an onlooker called out.

At the mention of Nickelson’s name, Van’s body visibly twitched.

‘That bastard… Nickelson. The one who was in charge of my training… I seriously thought I got over that…’ He thought as he clenched his fist.

A few girls grew agitated at the sight of Anne, as well as other spectators.

“This bitch really gets on my nerves…”

“Yeah, let’s teach her a lesson…” The girls from Cerille’s group giggled, conjuring a water spell and hiding it.

Shortly after, the water spell was flung toward Anne from the side.

Cerille noticed it a moment too late.

“WAIT! DON’T!” Cerille called out as the spell was already an inch from Anne.

‘She’ll be seriously hurt by that!’ Cerille thought as she almost leapt for her rescue. ‘I WON’T MAKE IT..!! ANNE!!!’ Cerille thought, as time seemed to slow for Van, who had the third highest Perception and DEX stats in the nearby environment. The water spell appeared to move in slow motion.

‘… So, this is the generation you raise, Nickelson?’ He thought, a moment of clarity washing over him as he looked at the water spell.

‘A bunch of murderers?’

Van then raised his hand towards the spell.

‘Well, the only surprising thing here is you with Sir Brennan’s role. You FUCKER.’

Van then slapped the spell away, sending it back to the girls with half the force it was emitted at. It hit one directly in her face, knocking her into the pool and leaving the other paralyzed with fear.

‘What…?’ Cerille thought in confusion as she stopped in her place, while Anne remained frozen in place.

“Holy Goddess… H-he… He just flicked that away!”

“Marie-ann!!” someone yelled, jumping into the pool after the girl was knocked out.

‘Was I… going to get hit with that?’ Anne thought, her face pale as she glanced at Marie-ann, her aggressor, now covered in blood and passed out.

“Hearing you were a Greatknight’s daughter, I was going to brush this off. Comply, even. As the previous Greatknight held true to his name,” Van said, gently walking past Anne and glaring at Cerille.

“…Van?” Anne called, concern etched on her whitened face.

“But I see. You are that piece of shit’s daughter. No wonder you’re so irresponsible as to draw your sword, eager for a fight in a public area with so many onlookers around, like you own the place,” he hissed, stepping in front of her sword.

“STAY BACK!” she yelled, pointing the sword firmly at him. “IRRESPONSIBLE, YOU SAY? YOU ARE A THREAT, AND YOU NEED TO BE NEUTRALIZED.” Her voice boomed through the crowd, earning claps and gasps of admiration from the onlookers. She fixed her stance hurriedly, her eyes wide like a hunter’s on their prey, while still cautious of his ability.

‘I’m sorry, Varlog. I can’t really remember any of your lessons right now.’

“I wasn’t a threat,” Van began, gripping her greatsword with his bare palm, his gaze unwavering and fierce.

“But I sure as hell am now,”

Van and Anne moved past the checkout and approached a grand pool surrounded by grass and lively people. Various mages were creating waterslides for others, and people were openly using magic to create a spectacle for onlookers.

“There’s no ban on magic usage or something?” Van asked as they walked in.

“There used to be, but with the constant dragon attacks, the royal guards started enforcing it less due to the extra workload. Eventually, it was deemed unnecessary. It’s like forbidding a cook from using his knife, or so my late father used to say,” Anne replied.

“Ohh,” Van hummed in curiosity as he looked around.

‘This… it almost feels like I’m back in my own world. Well, minus the instant ice water slides they create on the spot,’ Van reflected, taking in the scene.

“Come on!” Anne urged again, as she pulled Van’s head towards the pool’s direction.

“Ah, you go ahead,” Van said, halting.

“What?”

“You probably have friends here you want to see, right? I’ll find a spot to relax,” Van reasoned.

‘Amoria told me to mingle with these kids, but that’s not really my scene. I’ll just keep an eye on her until she’s ready to leave,’ he thought.

“Eh, not really,” Anne replied, looking away.

“Not really? Are you being bullied perhaps?” Van’s voice grew stern.

“No! If anyone dared touch me, I’d tear them apart! Who do you think I am!?” Her voice boomed with defiance.

“Alright, so what’s the issue?”

“Just… Look, just hang out with me, okay? Or maybe you don’t want to…?” Anne asked, her gaze averted, a hint of shame in her voice.

It was then he heard Anne’s name mentioned in the crowd. Curious, he utilized the entirety of his 587 points in perception, eavesdropping on chatter around them.

‘What’s all this about…?’ Van pondered.

Van overheard a gaggle of girls whispering amongst themselves with derision.

“Hey, look; it’s Anne…”

“That workhorse actually brought a guy with her…”

“Is he gay, since he’s hanging out with her—or should I say, him? Hahaha,” one sneered.

“I bet she paid him to come just to show she’s not some closeted lesbian…”

Then, he caught the chatter of a group of guys around the same age group.

“Anne is so freaking hot… If she wasn’t such a man, I’d totally hit on her.”

“Honestly, even if she was more feminine, I’d steer clear. Have you seen her mom!? She’d annihilate you for just looking her way!”

“That guy’s in for a world of pain…”

‘… So it’s this kind of harassment,’ Van realized, watching the teens with a mix of anger and resignation, then turned his attention back to Anne, who clicked her tongue impatiently, waiting for his reaction.

“Look, I don’t have time for this crap! If you don’t want to hang out just say it straight!” Anne exclaimed, turning to walk away in frustration and anger.

That’s when Van moved behind her and swiftly lifted her onto his shoulder, her legs dangling in front of him, secure in his arm.

“V-VAN!?!” Anne gasped, her voice tinged with embarrassment as onlookers turned their heads.

————————–

“Van, can you provide an example of being mindful towards one’s peers?”

“Is this supposed to be a lesson, Varlog?”

“It is. Suppose Her Majesty tells you she is tired. How would you act to show consideration toward her?”

“I’d leave her alone for the day…? Is that the response you’re looking for?”

“Tsk, tsk, tsk, still hopelessly inept at social cues…” Varlog sighed, shaking his head as he rubbed his temple with a weary hand.

—————————

“Whoa, that guy seriously has a death wish…” some murmured.

“Lifting Anne like that, he’s just asking to be hit!” a few of the guys commented, while the gossiping girls fell silent.

Without another word, Van strode toward the pool area with Anne still hoisted on his shoulder.

“W-WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!? P-PEOPLE ARE WATCHING!! LET ME DOWN!!!” Anne protested, her voice tinged with both alarm and embarrassment as she squirmed in his grasp.

—————————–

“Let me explain further. While listening to someone’s request is a part of being mindful, simply acquiescing to their demands all the time can actually be a form of cowardice or even disrespect – until eventually you start to drain their energy. Do you understand what I mean?”

“I… Don’t quite understand.”

“Haah…” Varlog sighed, his expression one of slight exasperation.

“Consider this scenario: Suppose my wife invites you to dinner and you decline, as occurred. When she insisted that time, and invited you again, despite your initial refusal, was that inconsiderate of her?”

“Obviously—… Hmm,” Van murmured, pausing as he pondered the implications of his response.

“Ahhh, got you thinking now, haven’t I?” Varlog asked, his eyes bright with anticipation as he watched Van think it over.

——————————–

“What do you mean, what am I doing? Didn’t we come here to hang out?” Van replied flatly to Anne as he strode confidently into the pool area, bypassing the mocking group.

‘T-they’re looking…!!’ Anne’s thoughts raced with alarm as they neared the water’s edge.

Just then, Van smoothly shifted her into a princess carry.

“W-WAIT…!! I’M STILL WEARING MY SHIRT…!!” Anne exclaimed, her face flushing with embarrassment as she covered it with her palms.

“Look at me, Anne,” Van instructed firmly, prompting her to lower her hands and meet his gaze.

With a mischievous smile, Van looked into her eyes just before he leaped into the pool with her in his arms.

“No wai—blubebrblrubrbru,” Anne sputtered as they plunged underwater.

“Is he out of his mind…!?”

“That guy must be crazy…” The onlookers murmured among themselves as Van and Anne surfaced.

“WHAT WAS THAT FOR!!?” Anne yelled, pushing him against the pool wall, her cheeks burning with embarrassment.

Van responded by playfully splashing water in her face with a gentle flick of his hand.

In a flash of anger, Anne raised her fist and swung at Van, who caught it effortlessly with his palm.

“Didn’t peg you as the sore loser type,” Van teased.

“Coming here with you was a damn mistake!!” She erupted with a frown, “You’re as childish and as immature as the rest of them!” Anne snapped, dousing Van with a forceful splash that sent water flying in the form of a small wave, before turning to swim away furiously.

——————————–

“Well? Did you notice?” Pressed Varlog.

“Yeah, I noticed, Varlog. The fact she kept inviting me… It made me feel… Good. Despite how I refused the first time,” Van admitted, smiling faintly. “She was doing that on purpose?”

“Exactly! Her first aim was to get you to dine with us, since we both like having you around. But, she persisted because she was considering your feelings, even after your refusal.” Varlog then drew closer to Van, his tone firm as he grasped his palm.

“And you need to understand, even if you might not admit it… You need to feel loved, Van. Wanted. It energizes you that others show their need for your presence even if you refuse theirs. I’ve seen that trait in you. Many individuals in this realm say one matter, but mean another. We are all a part of that group, regardless of how some claim they aren’t; those are merely liars or inexperienced ones.” Varlog said gently.

——————————-

‘And I’m sure… That this girl needs someone to treat her as an equal more than anything,’ Van thought as he splashed Anne again, his splash noticeably stronger than hers.

“I’ve faced tougher water droplets than that splash. Come on, give it your all… Or is that all you’ve got?” Van taunted, watching Anne reel slightly from the force of his splash.

‘… She comes alive when challenged,’ Van reflected, remembering her fiery determination back at the storage house.

“TSK…” Anne clicked her tongue, clenching her fists under the water.

“She’s going to kill him!” some onlookers whispered.

“YOU BASTARD…!!! YOU ASKED FOR IT!!!” Anne shouted, channeling magic into her muscles, hurling water at Van with all her might, creating a wave that momentarily shadowed him.

“Hey, Anne just used muscle enhancement!”

“It’s the weakest form of magic… But getting hit by it still hurts!”

“Move out of the way, dumbass!” someone yelled at Van.

Van watched the towering splash head towards him. ‘Now, that’s what I’m talking about…!’ he thought, bracing for the impact.

‘I should get out before this draws more attention,’ Anne thought as she turned her back to him, ready to leave the pool, but then noticed a shadow looming over her as she did.

“Holy Goddess…” 

“That’s an actual wave!” the onlookers exclaimed.

“N-no way…” she muttered, stunned by his return volley.

“YOU WON’T BEAT ME, BASTARD!!!” she screamed, throwing herself fully into the battle, oblivious to the crowd as they traded splashes vigorously.

Eventually, Anne was splashed out of the pool.

“… I didn’t hear about anyone except Cerille that can stand up to Anne in terms of physical strength.”

“Who is this guy?!”

“He appears like some thug from the streets, to be honest…”

They spoke amongst themselves as Anne found herself lying on the pool’s edge, soaked, as she looked upwards.

‘What… What was that…?’ Anne thought in wonder as she sat up, looking at Van, who was still standing in the pool, appearing to sneer mockingly.

‘That bastard… Laughing at me like that…!! BRING IT ON!!’ She raged as she sprang up, quickly leaping back in, her face lit with excitement, ready to strike back.

As the hour passed, her energy began to wane.

“I’m not done… Bastard… Hahaha…” she chuckled, her splashes growing weaker as adrenaline surged through her veins, one last time before her strength faded.

Just as she began to sink, Van swiftly caught her, lifting her into a princess carry.

“…Wanna go take a break?” Van suggested gently, smiling at his exhausted niece.

She met Van’s gaze, letting her body relax with a deep sigh.

“Sure… Hahaha…” Anne chuckled, resting her head on his arm as he carried her out of the water.

‘Man… That was a blast,’ she thought, feeling a sense of contentment as Van scanned the area for a spot where they could sit and recuperate.

“You know… She actually looks pretty cute all curled up like that…”

“Is that really Anne…?”

“That lucky bastard… I wish I had thought of that!” the guys murmured among themselves, while the girls clenched their teeth, their envy barely concealed.

‘Those guys…. As much as I’m happy this girl’s image is improving… I feel bad for the poor company she has to deal with daily. No wonder she was so defensive earlier.’ Van thought with a sigh.

‘Well, don’t worry,’

‘Big uncle Van’s here,’

‘….And he doesn’t have any towels… I suppose we could borrow some from there, maybe…?’

—————

“… I thought Demons are supposed to be honest. This sounds slightly manipulative.”

“It is VERY manipulative.” Varlog started, his eyes sparkling; as if he expected Van to answer the way he did. “But what my wife did for you is still an HONEST gesture, despite being of manipulative in nature. Can you guess why?”

“Hmm…” Van scratched his head.

“I don’t know. She is a good person. A good… Demon, I mean. I trust her, and I’ve no reason to doubt hers in me.”

“… Go on…” Varlog urged, expectation and wonder in his gaze.

Van thought and thought, yet only one answer shone through his mind. “Her… Intention?”

Varlog clasped his palms together in satisfaction.

“Indeed!! It is the intention behind your action, be it manipulative or not, that makes you honest or dishonest. The will to protect them. Both physically… and emotionally.”

Van remained silent, his gaze remained focused on Varlog.

“The reason I tell you of this is because you are going to be interacting with Her Majesty. I expect you to extend the same level of courtesy that my wife had bestowed upon you to everyone at the castle,” Varlog advised, placing a hand on Van’s shoulder.

“And more broadly, I hope to see you grow into the remarkable individual I know you’re capable of becoming,” Varlog added, looking earnestly into Van’s eyes.

“Alright, Varlog…”

“I promise,”