Category: The Virus King

60: When Logic Fails

For the next few days, I observed everyone.

Not in a creepy way. Though I wouldn’t deny that I’d been spending a lot of time gazing at Liz and Rebecca.

Harken, a death knight, had joined the newly formed bodyguard unit, which had previously consisted of only Liz and Samarkand. Rebecca, working in the basement laboratory as she had in the Undead Army, was improving existing spells and bolstering the mansion’s defenses with her undead subordinates.

I was checking to see if the new system was functioning smoothly.

I wanted to have a proper conversation with Harken eventually, but for now, I was relieved that he and Samarkand seemed to be getting along.

Rebecca spent most of her time in the basement but seemed to be doing well. Though I wished she would stop looking at me with suspicion every time our eyes met.

—However, there was one thing…

That night, I summoned Liz to my room.

“Liz, I have a request.”

“What is it, Master? If it’s another one of those requests, the answer is no.”

“Could you at least hear me out before you start insulting me?”

“Fine. So, what is this ridiculous request?”

“It’s not a ridiculous request.”

“Oh? You don’t say.”

While I had my own thoughts about her attitude, considering my past behavior, I couldn’t exactly blame her.

So, I decided not to dwell on what she’d been about to say after “You don’t say” and began.

“Actually…”

“My master. I have brought Rebecca-sama and Harken-dono.”

I sat at my desk, greeting the two Samarkand had brought with him.

“Thank you, Samarkand. You and Harken may wait outside.”

“Yes…” Samarkand and Harken stepped back, obeying my order.

“Now, Rebecca, thank you for coming.”

“You summoned me. …What is it? You seem unusually cheerful.”

“I have something Liz made for you.”

“Oh? Were you actually working as the Lord of Disease? Let’s see it, then.”

“Ta-da!”

I held up the item I’d placed on the desk.

“…What is this?”

“Can’t you tell? It’s an outfit made entirely of Liz’s magic cloth. She’s so talented.”

“The same design as my current clothes…?”

“Yes. Your clothes are tattered, Rebecca. I understand you might have your reasons, but cute girls should look their best. So, let’s get you ‘changed.’”

“Who are you calling a cute girl? …Hah…” Rebecca sighed dramatically.

“I refuse. Is that all? Then I’m going back to the laboratory. Don’t summon me again unless you have a legitimate reason.”

“Samarkand.”

“Yes!”

“Full combat readiness. Release restraints.”

“Yes!” Samarkand blinked, then immediately obeyed.

His short goat horns twisted and lengthened.

The tips of his black fur shimmered, as if connected to another realm.

His crescent moon eyes glowed crimson.

“Hey, wait a minute.”

“Harken, you too. Don’t draw your sword yet. But if necessary, I’ll ask you to use it. …I apologize for turning you against a comrade.”

“…My life has long been yours to command.” Samarkand gripped his black scythe, a weapon formed from magic.

“…Hmm. If it is my master’s command, I have no choice.” Harken placed his hand on the hilt of his sword.

“Rebecca Stagnet. I have granted you the rank of third in the Lord of Disease’s forces. But I am first in command. You do not have the right to disobey. …However, you can refuse my order, on your own pride. —But be prepared to stake your life on it as well.”

“Master? I sensed Samarkand releasing his restraints… What are you doing?”

Liz’s exasperated voice shattered the tense atmosphere as she entered, opening the door casually.

“Liz, Rebecca doesn’t want to wear the clothes you made for her.”

“…Could you please stop doing stupid things?”

“Liz…” Rebecca breathed a sigh of relief, seeing Liz scolding me.

So, I continued with my order.

“Lizlit Finis. This is an order. Restrain Rebecca Stagnet.”

“…Master? Are you serious? Are you even sane?”

“I’m serious. Though I’m not sure I’ve been sane for a while.”

Not since I’d accepted this position.

Not since I’d taken the name Lord of Disease.

“This is an order, Liz. If you can’t obey, you’re free to charge me with treason. You have the authority.”

“…I’m sorry, Rebecca.”

Liz drew her two large knives, holding them at the ready. Her red scarf wrapped around her arms as her skirt settled from the sudden movement.

“L-Liz?”

“She’ll probably be satisfied once you put them on…”

“Idiot! What are you doing?!” Rebecca shouted.

“I may be assigned to the Lord of Disease’s unit, and I may have been asked to cooperate, but I am a necromancer of the Undead Army, not a dress-up doll!”

“She’s right. But Master is a supreme commander, so we can’t have you slacking off. Of course, we also can’t have you unable to work because you’re restrained. But if Master will be satisfied with this… you understand, right?”

“I understand nothing.” Rebecca spat out the words.

“But she’s serious! And Samarkand has a blood contract with her! He’ll obey any order, no matter how ridiculous!”

“What? Wait. A blood contract with a greater demon? —A human?”

“…Yes.” Liz nodded solemnly.

“It’s a bit of a farce… but Harken doesn’t seem inclined to disobey either.” Liz glanced at Harken, then looked back at Rebecca apologetically.

“I… I’m very sorry, but my priority is the nation…”

I, too, put on a slightly troubled expression and addressed Rebecca.

“So… Rebecca…”

“Wait a minute. Why am I the one being unreasonable?!” Rebecca exclaimed, placing a hand on her chest.

“Logically, I’m the one in the right!”

“Yes, you are, Rebecca.” I nodded in agreement. Her argument was so sound; it deserved to be framed.

“But sometimes, logic doesn’t work.”

I smiled sweetly. Rebecca slumped, groaning in defeat.

“Damn it…”

59: A Discussion of Rank with Samarkand

That night, the day Rebecca arrived…

I summoned Samarkand to my room.

“Samarkand… um… this is about… ranks within the organization.”

“Yes.” Samarkand knelt, bowing his head respectfully.

“I understand. I currently hold the third rank. However, Rebecca-sama is a transfer from the Undead Army, and she is responsible for training the undead in the assassination unit, as well as the future bodyguard unit. She also possesses leadership qualities. Therefore, after you, my master, at first rank, and Liz-sama, your vice-commander, at second, the third rank is suitable for her. As for me—would fourth rank be appropriate? Or perhaps fifth? Even lower, if that is your command.”

He’d voiced everything I’d been thinking.

“…Yes. I’m considering placing you at fourth rank. It will only slightly reduce your official authority, but your treatment and your position in the bodyguard unit will remain unchanged.”

He’d also voiced all the things I’d been hesitant to say.

He’d joined my unit under… unusual circumstances.

He’d come to assassinate me. But because he’d ultimately refused, I’d survived.

So, I’d created the bodyguard unit and placed him under Liz, who had been my sole bodyguard until then. He was a greater demon—and even if that wasn’t ideal for a bodyguard—his combat abilities were undeniable.

Hence, his ‘third rank.’

During the previous attack, the closest I’d come to death as the Lord of Disease, he’d bought us valuable time, even though he’d been outmatched.

Literally using his entire being as a shield.

So, demoting him, even for strategic reasons, weighed heavily on my mind.

“Is that acceptable?”

“I said I would accept anything. —However, allow me to speak freely.”

“Not just ‘one thing.’ Say whatever you wish.”

“The rank you bestowed upon me is my pride. But it is also a title to serve you, and the number itself is a trivial matter. —I simply ask for your continued trust.”

“…Of course, but…?” I wanted to point out that ‘bestow’ wasn’t a word one should use casually.

“That is all I require. I shall continue to serve you faithfully as the fourth in command.”

“Thank you, Samarkand.”

I was relieved that the delicate conversation was over.

“Please be careful. I will be your shield against any threat to your life.”

“Um, please be careful yourself, too.”

“Of course. I would not be forgiven if I died before fulfilling my duty as your shield.”

“…Do you remember… what I said when I first called you my subordinate?”

“Yes. You said, ‘You are my subordinate. Do not mistake that. You are not a tool.’” Knowing him, he’d probably remembered it verbatim.

“Then…”

“With all due respect, my master, you underestimate your own value.” Samarkand shook his head slowly.

“I believe it is my greatest fortune to serve you as your subordinate, to be your shield.”

“You haven’t been… brainwashed… or anything, right?”

While this was the usual Samarkand, his words were always so… intense… that I occasionally got worried.

“That question is meaningless. If I were brainwashed, I wouldn’t admit it. —However, let me assure you. There is no mind magic that can override my loyalty.”

“That’s reassuring.”

“It is my greatest joy.” That’s a lot.

It was nice to be appreciated.

I was the Lord of Disease, a supreme commander. A position of considerable power. Only His Majesty outranked me. Beside me were five other supreme commanders. And beneath me were my subordinates.

Samarkand was one of them. And he held a unique position, having come to assassinate me, then entering into a rather… intense… employment contract, sealed with a blood oath.

The weight of his trust was the weight of my position.

So, every time Samarkand showed me such unwavering, almost unconditional trust… I wondered if I was worthy of such devotion.

“Samarkand.”

“Yes, my master.”

I hesitated.

I’d wanted to ask, “Am I a good master?”

I’d wanted to hear him say, “Yes, you are.”

He would have given me the answer I wanted.

“It’s nothing. —I’ll do my best. To be worthy of your loyalty.”

So, I couldn’t afford to indulge in such questions.

“Yes, my master. I will lend you my strength, however insignificant.”

He believed in me. He’d come to kill the Lord of Disease, and yet, he’d stopped.

He’d believed in the possibility.

He’d even risked his own life.

“Thank you, Samarkand. I look forward to continuing to work with you.”

His trust wasn’t blind.

“Yes, my master. I will dedicate my everything to making your words a reality.”

It was just… his words were so intense that I wondered if I should suggest counseling.

58: If That Is Your Wish

It had been a lovely bath time.

I’d thoroughly washed both Rebecca and Liz, and they both looked radiant, their skin glowing.

Since the number of residents in the mansion had increased, I’d had the traps in the room with the fireplace disabled. We’d furnished it with a sofa, a low table, and other furniture, converting it into a parlor and common room.

“Hah…” Rebecca sank into the sofa, sighing languidly. She’d changed back into her faded black gothic-style shirt and skirt with frills.

“Rebecca, are you alright? Did you get overheated in the bath?”

“Undead don’t get overheated.”

“Really? But you have a body temperature.”

“It’s… maintained at a constant level… a sort of… simulated bodily function…”

“That’s complicated. Actually, I forgot to ask, if you’re not an elf, what race are you?”

Rebecca’s expression darkened.

“…I’m a Material Ghost.”

“Oh. That sounds cool.”

“…Huh?”

“Rebecca, you shouldn’t expect this person to have any knowledge about obscure races.”

“How rude.”

“So, do you know what a Material Ghost is?”

“Material… ghost… so, a ghost of an object, not a living being?”

“Essentially, yes. So, why did Rebecca hesitate?”

“…I don’t know.”

“Hah…” Liz sighed.

“It’s… a race that’s often looked down upon. Because they weren’t originally living beings.”

“Right.”

“And they’re a rare race. Small in number, and… vulnerable…”

“I see. Like the doppelgangers in our disinformation unit.”

“…Yes, something like that.” Liz nodded.

“So, is there a problem?”

“No.”

“…You don’t… mind?”

“Why would I? Liz said it’s fine.” I affirmed.

“This is the Lord of Disease’s unit. We’re effective, but we’re just a ragtag group with a numerical designation, the ‘Sixth Army.’ We don’t even have an official name. And I, the leader, am officially classified as ‘species unknown,’ even though I’m human.”

I smiled reassuringly.

“I don’t judge my cute subordinates based on their race.”

Racial traits existed. And perhaps those differences were absolute. I took them into account when formulating strategies.

Even so…

Race should never be a reason to denigrate someone.

At least, not in this nation. Not in the Listrea Demon Kingdom, a nation founded on the ideal of coexistence between all races, those labeled simply as ‘demons’ by humans.

“…I see.” Rebecca smiled.

“I look forward to working with you, Master.”

“Thank you, Rebecca.” I smiled back.

“—Let’s take a bath together again sometime.”

Rebecca’s smile vanished. Her face turned serious.

“Again?”

“It’s a bath. I’m not saying every time, but I like to… bond with my subordinates occasionally.”

“…Liz.” Rebecca looked at Liz.

“It’s either give in, or risk your life and position to resist.”

“What about you, Liz?”

“I’ve given in. …Well, she hasn’t done anything… too strange…”

“Indeed… just bathing together and being washed.”

“Apparently, bathing is a sacred ritual in Master’s homeland.”

“I see… so, it’s alright?”

“She did say, ‘Doesn’t defiling something sacred excite you?’”

“…Should I risk my life and position to resist?” Rebecca mused, covering her mouth with her hand.

“There are jobs at public bathhouses where you wash people. That sounds nice, once I’m no longer a supreme commander.”

I, too, indulged in fantasies. The salary of a supreme commander was excellent.

But being a military commander during wartime was a grim and demanding job.

So, I dreamt of fulfilling, community-oriented work.

“Is there a scenario where Master ceases to be a supreme commander without dying?”

“Well, when we achieve human extinction and there’s peace?”

The Sixth Army, under my command, was responsible for targeting the enemy’s domestic infrastructure. I assumed it would be disbanded immediately after the war.

“I think there will still be plenty of work after that.”

“Wait, isn’t my job done once humanity is extinct?”

“You’re actually quite good at administrative work, so please continue to serve the nation even after peace is achieved.”

“Will you still be my vice-commander, Liz?”

“In for a penny, in for a pound… I’ll stick with you.”

Hearing Japanese proverbs in another world always felt strange. If it was a quirk of the translation, I sometimes worried about miscommunication.

It seemed correct in context, though.

“Always?”

Liz closed her eyes for a moment. Then, she opened them, her expression serious.

“…If that is your wish.”

I smiled.

“Yes. I want you to be my vice-commander, Liz.”

“Thank you, Master.” Liz smiled back.

“This is practically a marriage proposal.”

“Are you done with your delusional statements?” Liz’s smile didn’t waver as she cut me down.

“You two are quite in sync.” Rebecca sighed softly.

“This is a much more… relaxed workplace than I imagined…”

57: Methods for Bonding with an Adorable Little Girl

“…Oh, it’s the bath.”

Rebecca, who had been wearing an expression of utter despair, looked relieved when she realized where I’d brought her.

“That’s right. What did you think it was?”

“W-well… you said something about getting naked and being covered in slimy ooze…”

Rebecca blushed, lowering her eyes and ears.

“How lewd. Ah, are you experienced? I’m a virgin, so please be gentle.”

“Lewd?! V-virgin?! Idiot! You’re shameless!”

“Yep, definitely sheltered. No doubt about it.”

“Just like Master.”

“You’ve gotten good at that, Liz.”

“I’ve had practice.”

“…Just so you know, I’m undead, so I don’t need to bathe.”

“Huh?” This soft, warm, blushing little girl…

…is undead?

“You’re not a… non-dark elf?”

“…I once was. But there are no more elves.” A flicker of ancient pain crossed Rebecca’s face, and her expression turned weary.

“Humans exterminated them…”

This was what I was doing. Wiping out an entire race.

A sorrow that couldn’t be expressed with tears.

A grief that remained, even after the tears had dried.

That was what I was doing.

But humans had already done this.

To the race she once belonged to.

To a race that had probably been full of cute, fair-skinned, elf-eared girls.

They had exterminated them.

“Those fools who couldn’t appreciate the beauty of elf ears…” I muttered.

“…Liz, could you explain? I don’t understand.”

“I don’t quite understand either.”

“One of the things I was happy about when I came to this world was being able to see real elf ears.”

“Hah… there are no elves or dark elves in your homeland, are there?”

“No. —Only humans.” Thinking back, it was a rather simple world compared to this one.

“No elves, no dark elves, no beastmen, no undead, no demons, no dragons. And no magical beasts like Black Hound Barghests.”

And yet, it was a world of endless conflict.

“Even in my world, humans have always been killing each other.”

I smiled brightly.

“So, I fully support this nation! For the sake of protecting all the elf-eared girls in the world!”

“Liz, do you understand what I’m saying?”

“I only understand that Master is insane.”

“I see. Me too.” I’d truly become accustomed to this world.

I repeatedly cast [Create Ooze] to fill the bath. As I dipped my hand in, channeling mana into the ooze to warm it, I spoke.

“This mansion has a nice, big bath. I think I would have gotten along with the previous owner.”

The bathtub was made of marble and quite spacious. They’d clearly spared no expense on the bathing facilities.

“Actually, I don’t think this was meant for personal use. Given the size of the mansion, it was probably designed for the servants and the master to use at different times. The servants would bathe together.”

“Ah, I see. Building separate baths for the master and servants would be a hassle.”

“It’s a master’s duty to ensure the cleanliness of their servants.”

“My maid is presentable enough to be seen anywhere.”

“Ehehe… I’m not really a maid, though.”

“I know. But it’s still an important job.”

“Really?”

“For my mental well-being.”

“Ah… yes.” I lifted my arm from the ooze.

“Alright, it’s ready. Let’s get in.”

An ooze bath. A common type of bath for demons, where you summoned ooze with [Create Ooze] and warmed it with magic.

From a Japanese perspective, it was incredibly bizarre.

“Ahhh…”

And yet, after a year in this world, I’d become accustomed to this type of bath, even finding it… comforting.

Especially after being summoned to the royal castle, dressed in formal attire, and maintaining a dignified demeanor as a supreme commander, a bath was particularly enjoyable. It felt like the stress of the day melted away.

I hadn’t been to the castle today, but I’d been busy with preparations for Rebecca’s arrival, and I’d been nervous about meeting her.

That tension was easing.

Seeing Liz’s healthy brown skin and Rebecca’s translucently white skin simultaneously in my field of vision further enhanced the relaxing effect. Incidentally, Rebecca was still wearing her tiara, even though she was naked.

“Rebecca, your skin is so pale.”

“It doesn’t tan.”

“…Master, do you prefer… pale skin?” Liz asked, sounding slightly insecure. I smiled at her.

“I love both brown skin and pale skin.”

“That’s good to know.”

“Rebecca, why are you so far away?” Rebecca had positioned herself as far away from me as possible in the spacious tub.

“Is it strange to be cautious?”

“It’s fine, I’m used to seeing naked girls younger than me.”

“I have no idea what that’s supposed to mean.”

“…Master, what kind of life have you lived?”

“A complicated one.”

“…And I’m older than you.”

“Really?”

“You said I was an experienced veteran. My military service dates back to the founding of this nation.”

I thought this nation was four hundred and twenty years old.

“I see. But it’s fine. I outrank you.”

“…I don’t see how that’s reassuring…” Rebecca said dryly.

“I’ve had enough. I’m getting out.”

“No, you’re not, Rebecca. You can’t leave until you count to ten thousand.”

“What kind of custom is that?”

“From my homeland.”

“Master, you told me I had to count to one hundred.”

“That’s another theory.”

“…………”

“…………”

“Besides, I haven’t washed myself yet.”

“I’m undead. I don’t have… waste products.”

“You still get dust and dirt on you.”

“The ooze bath is enough.”

“I can’t entrust the cleanliness of my cute subordinate to a mere summoned creature.”

I declared firmly, getting out of the bath and grabbing a towel.

“—Come on. I’ll wash you thoroughly.”

“…Do I have a choice?” Rebecca looked at Liz pleadingly.

Liz shook her head apologetically.

56: The Knight’s Spine

“Yes, it’s a bone,” Rebecca confirmed, answering my question.

“A dark elf’s spine… and a summoning device. Do you see the runes carved into it?”

Rebecca pointed with a slender finger, and indeed, runes were carved into each vertebra, following the curve of the spine.

“A summoning device?”

“Actually, I don’t know much about it. Eldritch-sama simply said, ‘Take this. It might be interesting.’”

So, that was the ‘perhaps.’

And Eldritch-sama is… that kind of person, huh?

Eldritch, Commander-in-Chief of the Undead Army, the Greater Wraith.

I hadn’t actually had a proper conversation with him. He must have been busy. The Undead Army had a wide range of duties, and a heavy workload.

The Undead Army was the largest in terms of sheer numbers. This was due to the fact that everyone, except demons, became undead upon death.

Not everyone became undead, and even the undead had a sort of lifespan, a limit to their existence. They could also be ‘killed.’ So, their numbers didn’t increase indefinitely.

However, dark knights, beastmen, and even civilians could be resurrected, and since the Listrea Demon Kingdom didn’t allow ‘stray undead,’ they were all incorporated into the Undead Army. And undead, as long as they were properly supplied with mana, had long ‘lifespans.’

Thus, the Fourth Army, the Undead Army, was a significant force.

If he hadn’t supported His Majesty’s decision, I might not have become a supreme commander.

And since I’d requested wraiths as part of my forces, I had a military connection with the Undead Army.

“Apparently, a veteran of the Undead Army is sealed within…”

The fact that he’d sent such a potentially ‘useful’ individual could be seen as a sign of support for both His Majesty and me.

That means I have high hopes for this… whoever is sealed in this summoning device.

“How does it work?”

“You should be able to summon them by holding it and calling their name. Introduce yourself and say, ‘Answer my summons.’”

“…Hmm.” I gently picked up the spine-shaped summoning device.

“—I am the Lord of Disease. Answer my summons.”

Nothing happened.

“I’ll say it again. I am the Lord of Disease, a supreme commander of the Demon King’s army. I have been entrusted with this summoning device by the Commander-in-Chief of the Undead Army. Answer my summons.”

I tried again, explaining the situation more clearly. But still, nothing happened.

Rebecca spoke hesitantly, “…Perhaps they only answer to those they recognize as their master.”

“Oh? So, they don’t recognize me as their master?”

“That would be the case.” Rebecca nodded.

I gripped the spine and brought it closer to my face.

“Alright, I’ll ask one last time. —Answer my summons. If you don’t, there will be… consequences.”

But still, nothing happened.

“…Can we assume there’s no response?”

“It seems so.” Rebecca nodded. I turned to Liz.

“Liz.”

“Yes?”

“Let’s use this to make stock for today’s soup.”

I offered her the… bone, formerly known as a summoning device.

“Wait, are we allowed to do that?”

“Hold on! Wait a minute! That’s a rare summoning item!”

“If it’s useless, then it’s just a bone.” I said coldly to Rebecca, who was looking increasingly desperate.

“…W-well, I don’t think that’s appropriate. Besides, who would drink that soup?”

“Naturally, since it’s a soup made with such a rare and high-quality ingredient, it’s only polite to offer it to my new, cute subordinate.” I smiled sweetly.

“Just to be clear, that subordinate… is me?”

“You’re learning, Rebecca. That’s right.”

Rebecca snatched the bone from my hand. She leaned closer, pleading.

“…Please! Please! Just answer the summons! She’s insane! She’ll actually do it! I’m not bluffing!”

“Such unwavering faith.”

“Even though we’ve just met. I’m so touched.”

“I think that’s a negative kind of faith…”

“It’s still faith.”

“Kukuku…”

A sudden burst of laughter echoed through the room. The bone in Rebecca’s hand vibrated, then floated into the air. Eerie blue-green flames, characteristic of the undead, engulfed the floating spine.

“I am Harken! Answering your summons!”

When the flames subsided, a skeleton stood before us. Yellowed human bones, clad in tattered chainmail with an exposed spine, a longsword and a dagger hanging at its hip. Over the chainmail, it wore the remnants of a surcoat, also tattered, bearing the emblem of the Listrea Demon Kingdom.

A skeleton.

A moving, human skeleton—or rather, a dark elf skeleton, since they’d said it was a dark elf’s spine.

That said, there was no skeletal difference between humans and dark elves. Things like ear length were irrelevant once you were reduced to bones.

“A rather… interesting master, aren’t you?” The skeleton, who’d introduced himself as Harken, rattled his jawbone, laughing.

“Thank you for answering my summons, Harken. Now, you’ve lost points for not responding immediately, and I’m afraid you’re still a candidate for garden fertilizer, guard dog treats, or soup stock. With that in mind, you may begin your excuses.”

“A mere test of my potential master’s character. If I hadn’t approved, I wouldn’t have minded becoming soup stock, fertilizer, or dog treats.”

“Oh? What about your knightly pride?”

“Feed that to the dogs. I am but a lowly undead, a summoned creature. My life and death are uncertain, so I’ve decided to live as interesting a life as possible.”

“You’re hired!”

I clapped my hands together.

“My new master seems quite reasonable.”

“Are you sure about this, Master?” Liz looked at Harken uneasily.

“It’ll be fine, it’ll be fine.”

“Based on what?”

“My gut feeling!”

“…Rebecca, do you think this is wise?”

“Don’t ask me. I’ve only just met her.”

“I doubt a supreme commander of the Undead Army would send someone dangerous.”

“That’s true, but…”

“We have a prime example of a dangerous supreme commander right here.” Rebecca, that was harsh. She seemed to have warmed up to me quickly.

“I’d like to get to know you all better. Any suggestions?”

“Hmm. While I lack the capacity for sexual desire, perhaps we could start by stripping that little necromancer naked?”

“And then drenching her in slimy ooze?”

“Precisely! You understand me perfectly, my master!”

“Want to join in?”

“While my gender is… fluid… I consider myself male, so I’ll refrain from gazing upon my master’s… unclothed form.”

“Alright. I have a demon named Samarkand. Could you join him on patrol? Be nice to him.”

“Understood. I’ll get to know my new colleague while we patrol.”

“…Liz, I think those two crazy people just hit it off.”

“I think so, too.”

“So, Rebecca, shall we… bond?”

“Sorry, I have a pressing engagement.”

“No, you don’t, Rebecca.” I grabbed her shoulder firmly.

“I’ve made you an offer to bond. —However, depending on the nature of this ‘pressing engagement,’ I might reconsider. Whether it’s work-related or personal, I’m willing to listen. I’m a very understanding superior.”

“I see. I’m glad to have such a kind superior. Then—” Rebecca smiled, relieved.

“Of course, bonding is important, so this is just a postponement.”

Rebecca’s smile froze.

“Now, tell me about this pressing engagement.”

Rebecca’s ears drooped slightly. She looked down, her voice dry.

“…It’s no longer pressing.”

“Alright, Liz, a little help here, for the sake of our shared gender. Don’t worry, I’ll be gentle.”

“W-what are you—”

“You know what~♪”

Rebecca’s face paled.

A little girl’s despairing face is so cute.

55: My Master Is Insane

She’s so small.

Having received permission, I bent down slightly and gently hugged Rebecca. Her body was incredibly delicate.

While Liz was also a bit shorter than me, she had curves, and her toned physique gave her a surprisingly solid feel.

Rebecca felt… fragile. Even as she stiffened in my arms, surprised by the sudden embrace, she felt soft, her slightly higher body temperature, typical of children… nostalgic.

“…Um… what are you…?”

“Master, your playfulness…”

“I got permission.”

“That wasn’t permission. She’s a highly skilled necromancer, one of the best in the undead army. …Please be respectful.”

“Alright, Liz.” I nodded and released Rebecca.

“Rebecca, how well do you understand my work?”

“…His Majesty gave me a brief overview before my arrival. You are a human summoned from another world, and you utilize that perspective to command the assassination and disinformation units, targeting the domestic infrastructure of the human nations.”

A concise and accurate summary. Nearly perfect. I’m so glad to have another competent and cute subordinate.

“Do you understand the importance and the heavy responsibility of this position?”

“I believe so.”

“Then this will be quick.” I smiled.

“This position is constantly lacking in comfort and emotional support, and I require both. Therefore, I expect the same from you.”

“Master… I just said please be respectful…” Liz glared at me. I chuckled.

“You have been assigned to my unit. That makes you my subordinate, and I have full authority and responsibility over how my subordinates are treated. Am I wrong, Lizlit Finis?”

“…No, Lord of Disease.” Liz looked down, defeated.

“…Um…?”

“That’s enough for now. Liz, please show Rebecca around. Provide her with anything she needs, within reason.”

“Yes, Master.” Liz and Samarkand left the audience chamber.

“See you later.”

“—S-see you, Rebecca.”

“Y-yes…”

“…Liz, may I ask you something?”

“Yes.”

Alone in the room after the Lord of Disease had left, Rebecca voiced a natural question.

“Was that really the Lord of Disease I just met?”

“Yes, that was definitely the Lord of Disease herself.” Liz wore the same defeated expression she’d had in the audience chamber.

“That’s a supreme commander?”

“She is.” Liz nodded, then averted her gaze slightly.

“…Well, what she says is… strange sometimes.”

“I can certainly attest to that. …Why did she hug me? I mean, I suppose it’s my fault for agreeing, but…”

“No, it’s Master’s fault. Who would say something like that in such a serious setting?” Liz sighed.

“Please be aware of her… tendencies towards sexual harassment.”

“Sexual… harassment?”

Liz explained the unfamiliar term to Rebecca.

“It’s unwanted sexual advances. I don’t think Master has any malicious intent. None at all, really.”

“…What was that?”

“Well, I said ‘sexual,’ but we’re both women, and all she’ll ask for is physical affection, sleeping together, and bathing together. As I said, she doesn’t seem to have any malicious intent, and she is under a lot of pressure as a supreme commander. So, please be patient and… indulge her… within reason.”

“I am a woman.”

“Master doesn’t dislike men, but she’s said several times that she ‘likes cute girls.’”

“…What?”

“I’ve been told that myself, several times.”

“Ah… so you’re lovers?”

“No. …She’s just… joking.”

“…And… me? Do I look like… that to her?”

“She did say something about ‘everyone being older than me, so it’s perfectly legal in my world, and I find it more exciting when they look younger than me.’”

“What?”

“That’s just how she is…”

“…She’s insane! Your supreme commander is absolutely insane!!”

“I wouldn’t deny that.”

“—I’d really appreciate it if you would deny that.”

Hearing Rebecca’s outburst, I entered the room.

“…Master, how long have you been listening?”

“Since Rebecca called me insane twice.”

“I see. It’s true, isn’t it?”

“I told you, I don’t lie to you, Liz.”

“Yes, yes… So, what can I do for you? I was just giving Rebecca a brief explanation.”

“How can a simple explanation lead to someone calling me insane?”

“You should know that better than anyone, Master.” Touché. She had a point.

“Well, I won’t dwell on that. —There’s something I forgot to ask Rebecca.”

“What is it?”

“What did you mean by ‘one, or perhaps one’?”

That ‘perhaps’… An oddly vague phrasing for an official document.

“Is someone else coming besides Rebecca? The explanation only mentioned one person.”

The documents included an order to accept the transfer, a brief summary of Rebecca’s previous assignment, and a request for a room in the basement to be prepared as a laboratory. That was all that was in His Majesty’s letter. I had no idea what the ‘perhaps’ referred to.

“…Ah, my apologies. My mistake. With everything that’s been happening, I forgot.”

“It’s partly my fault, too, so don’t worry about it.”

“That’s… reassuring… but you’re right.” Rebecca gave me an intense look. If she weren’t so cute, that kind of stare would be incredibly unnerving, especially directed at a new superior.

“Let’s just forget about it.”

“I was also at fault… so let me make amends. …Here.”

Rebecca retrieved a cloth-wrapped bundle from an old-fashioned, square leather trunk and placed it on the desk by the wall. She unwrapped it, revealing a long, yellowish-white object.

“…What is this? A bone?”

It was intricately structured, curving gently.

It resembled… a human spine.

54: Rebecca’s Arrival

After finishing the breakfast Liz had lovingly prepared, I sensed Samarkand moving silently to take his position behind me. He must have been waiting for the right moment.

“What is it?”

“I have already reported to Liz-sama. I have received a direct order from His Majesty.”

“…From His Majesty?”

Our king, His Majesty the Demon King, while a respectable and generally kind superior, could also be quite demanding and prone to giving his subordinates unreasonable tasks.

Opening this letter makes me nervous.

I checked the magical seal and the traditional wax seal, following protocol. They knew the magical signatures of the supreme commanders. As I touched the letter, the magical seal released.

“Liz, permission to open. Please.”

“Yes.” Liz retrieved a letter opener from a small pocket hidden inside her apron. She sliced through the wax seal with a graceful flourish and handed me the contents.

I carefully unfolded the letter and scanned its contents.

“Oh.”

“Good news?”

“Yes. We’re getting reinforcements.”

“Reinforcements? How many?”

“Um… I’m not sure.”

“…What?” Liz frowned.

“I don’t recognize this official format… Liz, could you read it? I’m pretty sure it says they’re sending someone from the undead army, but is that right? And how many? One? Two?”

“Yes. But Master, you usually read official documents without any problems…”

“I think so, too.”

My ability to read, write, and speak the language of this world was either due to the fact that they all spoke Japanese, or because I’d been given a convenient language decryption option upon being summoned.

I suspected it was the latter, but perhaps this was its limit.

But even Liz, a native speaker, tilted her head in confusion.

“One, or perhaps one… or perhaps…?”

“The ‘perhaps’ is concerning, but I’m also not sure what you mean by ‘one.’”

“I’m not sure either. This is rather sudden. Tomorrow? Samarkand, you should read this as well.”

“Yes.”

“We were almost wiped out due to lack of guards. Maybe that’s why they’re rushing this.”

“Indeed. …But both His Majesty and Eldritch-sama are taking a risk. She’s a veteran.”

“So, it’s a woman. Is she famous?”

“Yes. Rebecca Stagnet is the chief necromancer of the undead army. A top-class necromancer. Highly accomplished, trusted, and with extensive combat experience. However, she’s currently assigned to the rear… stationed at the royal castle, due to her contributions to spell refinement.”

Liz suddenly looked uneasy.

“Samarkand, do you know her?”

“I know her name and general appearance. She’s quite famous.”

“…Do you think it will be alright?”

“Whatever my master does is right.”

“Give me an answer that acknowledges my concerns without your blind faith in Master.”

“My master is wise and, despite appearances, adheres to the rules. She clearly distinguishes between right and wrong. And most importantly, she understands people. I don’t think there will be any major problems.”

“Do you truly believe that?”

“Yes. Is that not Liz-sama’s opinion as well?”

“…It is.”

“I’m so happy. Liz, you think I’m wise and follow the rules.”

“Yes. You’re very good at pushing the boundaries of the rules, exercising your authority to the limit, and giving orders that are technically within the regulations but difficult to refuse due to your position.”

I couldn’t deny that, so I simply smiled and changed the subject.

But there was something in her tone… what was she worried about?

Rebecca Stagnet. I wonder what kind of person she is…

The next day.

“I am Rebecca Stagnet, necromancer, dispatched from the undead army.”

As I watched her give her introductory greeting in the audience chamber—a rather austere room with only a raised platform, a chair, and a red carpet—my questions were answered.

“I have been assigned by His Majesty and Eldritch-sama, Commander-in-Chief of the Undead Army, to serve as instructor to the undead forces under the Lord of Disease.”

She spoke slowly, clearly, and concisely, with the air of a seasoned veteran.

However, she looked like a little girl.

She was short. So short that our eyes met even though she was standing and I was sitting in the chair.

She had unusually pale skin for this world, almost doll-like. Long, pointed elf ears, like bamboo leaves. Long, silver hair, almost eerily beautiful.

She wore a faded black gothic-style shirt and skirt with frills, which looked adorable on her. A delicate silver tiara adorned her head, decorated with leaves and vines. A faded black ribbon was tied at the end.

“I look forward to working with you.” Her voice was calm and soothing, as if she was deliberately lowering her pitch to compensate for her childlike vocal cords.

Then, she smiled faintly.

I nodded.

“I am the Lord of Disease. Welcome. I look forward to working with you as well.”

I stood up, walked towards her, and extended my hand.

“May I call you Rebecca?”

“Yes, I don’t mind.”

We shook hands.

Her small, soft hand felt… familiar. But I’d never shaken hands with someone with such small hands before, so I savored the novel sensation.

I smiled.

“Once again, welcome, Rebecca. We’ve prepared a laboratory for you in the basement. Your room is on the second floor. Liz will show you around later. If you need anything else, don’t hesitate to ask.”

“Thank you.”

“Just in case you don’t know them, let me introduce you. This is Liz… Lizlit Finis, and Samarkand.”

“You may call me Liz. That’s what Master calls me.”

“You may call me Samarkand.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you both.” She bowed her head slightly. What a well-behaved child.

“Rebecca, can I hug you?”

“Yes—wait, what?”

Having received permission, I embraced her without hesitation.

52. Bonus Chapter – “My Liz is the Cutest!” (Illustration)

• Brief Notes

• The illustration is the main feature of this chapter. The text is a transcription of the handwritten notes on the illustration.

• Due to the above, this chapter is not designed for formats that don’t support illustrations, such as vertical writing PDFs.

• The handwritten notes are from the perspective of the Lord of Disease (Master).

• Any feeling that I might have gone overboard is just your imagination.

My Liz is the cutest! (In no particular order)

• The balance of kindness and sharp tongue is addictive.

• I even like her when her eyes aren’t sparkling.

• Her silver hair is cute.

• Her brown skin is cute.

• Her short hair is cute.

• Her smile is unfair.

• She’s even more amazing without clothes.

• Gap moe.

• Her maid outfit is cute.

• Come to think of it, I’ve never seen her get her apron dirty…?

• Her white-brimmed cap is cute.

• I keep teasing her just to see her ears turn red…

• Her elf ears are cute.

• It’s cute how easily she blushes, even though she’s an assassin.

• Everything about her is cute.

• It’s unfair that she has such a high poison resistance that she doesn’t get drunk.

• She never seems to get stiff shoulders.

↑Why? I do.

• Her scarf is cute.

• It twitches a lot.

• I know it’s a trap, but I still want to pull on her ribbon.

• I do it sometimes.

• She gets mad, but that’s part of the charm.

• Matching cufflinks with the Sixth Army emblem.

• Her oversized knives are a cute mismatch.

• It’s cute how she hides things under her skirt.

↑It’s cute how I don’t really understand how she manages it.

---

53: Full Recovery

-Lord Of Disease Volume 2-

In this world, there existed a race known as demons.

No one knew for certain where or how they were born.

A race with physical bodies, yet unable to bear children, their very reason for existence uncertain.

Some said they were summoned creatures, conjured by summoning magic or created by life-generating magic, but no one had ever discovered or created such a spell.

Possessing robust bodies, immense magical power, and long lifespans…

They were a rare, yet powerful race, often hailed as the strongest.

Over time, as they accumulated magic and battle experience, demons became known as greater demons.

And now, a greater demon was beside me.

Primarily serving as a hot water bottle.

His name was Samarkand. A half-goat, half-humanoid demon, bound to me by a blood contract, my loyal servant.

His blood, said to be as hot as lava, flowed through him, and his smooth, thick black fur made him a comforting presence on these increasingly chilly autumn nights, promising a restful sleep.

And with the single remaining Barghest also nestled beside me, the concentration of black fluffiness was locally high.

“My master. Liz-sama has arrived.”

“Mmm…” A gentle hand shook my shoulder, trying to wake me. But I wanted to sleep a little longer.

“Thirty more minutes…”

“As you wish.”

“Samarkand. Stop pampering Master.”

A knock echoed through the room, followed by Liz’s icy yet sweet voice from beyond the door.

“Wake her up, Samarkand. That’s an order.”

“I apologize, Liz-sama. Due to rank and contract, I cannot obey.”

While Samarkand was lower in rank than Liz, I outranked Liz.

I was the Lord of Disease. A supreme commander of the Listrea Demon Kingdom’s army, first in the chain of command of the Sixth Army, also known as the Lord of Disease’s forces.

Furthermore, the blood contract was a powerful, almost curse-like bond that allowed me to compel obedience, overriding all logic and emotion.

That said, I hadn’t used it to force any orders yet. And we’d been like this even before he’d entered into both a blood contract and an employment contract with me.

“However, my esteemed master, Liz-sama has come to wake you. Please, open your eyes…”

The sound of the lock clicking, and Liz entered.

She had permanent access to my room and the authority to unlock the magical locks.

While she was my only maid, I’d entrusted her with a set of physical keys—ordinary keys—on a keyring, because “a head maid should have a set of keys.”

“Master, good morning.”

A dark elf with short, silver hair, dressed in a maid uniform, a red scarf around her neck. My beloved personal maid, vice-commander, and occasional bodyguard/assassin, Lizlit Finis, or Liz for short.

She looked dazzling, dressed impeccably in her maid uniform, her posture perfect.

I resigned myself to waking up.

“Good morning…” I stifled a yawn, covering my mouth with my hand.

“Did you bring Samarkand to bed with you?”

“Yeah. It’s getting cold, and you won’t sleep with me.”

Liz sighed.

“…Do you realize Samarkand is a greater demon?”

“Yes, I do.”

“There are probably fewer than fifty of them in the entire Demon Army, even though it’s not public knowledge.”

“I said I know. Well, if there are fifty in the main army, it makes sense that we’d have at least one in our unit, right?”

“That’s… not how it works.”

“My master, then I shall take my leave…”

“Yeah, thanks.”

“It has been my greatest honor to serve you. Please call upon me again whenever you require my services.” Samarkand bowed gracefully and left.

Liz, who had been watching him, turned to me.

“…You didn’t do anything… strange… did you?”

Liz’s eyes narrowed.

“No. He doesn’t see me as a woman.”

“Well, he is a demon, and you are his master…”

“The second part is more concerning.”

“Because you are his master.” Liz, you’re being harsh.

I was the Lord of Disease, a 26-year-old Japanese woman who, for some reason, wasn’t often seen as a woman.

Well, I’d been treated as a living fuel tank before even being recognized as a human, and after that, I’d been surrounded by beastmen, demons, and a woman, so it was understandable.

If I were seen as a woman, things would probably get complicated, so I had no complaints.

I put on the clothes Liz had brought me.

A pale green robe, layered over a dark green hooded robe. I didn’t forget the three amulets on a cord around my neck. I left the hood down, gathering my long black hair and letting it flow over the robe.

With the shoulder cloth, mask, and staff, this was the full Lord of Disease ensemble.

My amulets, mask, and staff had been badly damaged about ten days ago and had been repaired or replaced.

I’d also received a shoulder injury and had been ordered to rest until today. That was probably why Liz had refused to sleep with me.

Being targeted for assassination was part of the job description. It was one of the duties of the Lord of Disease, a supreme commander of the Demon King’s army.

But I had survived that battle without losing anything.

My loyal black goat, my cute assassin, my adorable black dogs—none had suffered any permanent damage.

I smoothed the hem of my robe and smiled.

The Lord of Disease was back in action.

I was the Lord of Disease.

Species: Human.

Objective: Human extinction.

“Shall we go, Liz?”

“You’re only energetic when it’s time to eat, aren’t you, Master?”

“Liz, I was being serious just now.”

51: It’s Good to Look Forward to an Uncertain Future

“Leaving already, Lathus-sama?”

“Yeah. …Lass, I apologize for my behavior earlier.”

“Huh?”

Lathus grinned, baring his fangs.

“She’s worthy of being a supreme commander.”

“—Of course she is.” Liz puffed out her chest for some reason.

Lathus raised a hand in farewell.

“Later, evil sorceress. Stay alive until we meet again.”

I waved back.

“You too, Lathus. —Good luck.”

“Yeah, you too. —Good luck.” We clasped hands, the size difference comical.

After seeing him off, Liz and I were alone.

She spoke hesitantly, “…You seem to have… bonded?”

“He’s my lifesaver.”

“I understand that, but…”

“And he’s my comrade.”

Liz’s expression clouded over.

“Um… just so you know, interspecies breeding between humans and beastmen is possible, but the child will inherit the mother’s race. In your case, human.”

“I know, but…?”

“It could lead to… complications… I wouldn’t stop you if you’re truly in love… but personally, I’m… conflicted…”

“…Liz?”

“Also, while Lathus-sama isn’t in a committed relationship, he does have seventeen children, so… as a partner for Master…”

“Liz, Lathus and I aren’t like that.”

“Oh, good…” Liz breathed a sigh of relief.

So, Lathus is a father. I knew that not all beastmen married, but…

They had a strong sense of community and loved children, so it wasn’t a problem. While there were royal orphanages, beastman children were rarely found there.

They were the most reproductively stable race in this nation.

…Still, seventeen is a lot.

But now that I thought about it, he was a supreme commander, straightforward, passionate, ruthless to his enemies but kind and protective of his own. A skilled warrior, and the more I thought about it, the less surprising it was that he had that many children.

But Lathus and I weren’t like that.

“Liz, feed me the rest of the bunny.”

I decided to take advantage of my invalid status and let Liz pamper me.

Liz gave me a look, then rather roughly shoved a piece of the apple bunny into my mouth.

“Master? Lathus-sama is working. He’s heading to the border fortress to exert pressure, possibly with military force. And you’re… like this. Aren’t you embarrassed, as a fellow supreme commander?”

I swallowed the apple and declared, “I’m not embarrassed. He’s suited for combat; I’m not. And I fulfilled my role as a decoy.”

I could confidently say I’d earned my keep.

“Besides, recuperating is part of my job when I’m injured.”

“…Well, that’s true.”

I pulled Liz closer, wrapping my arm around her waist, intertwining our fingers.

“So, there’s no problem with cuddling with my cute maid, right?”

Liz smiled wryly.

“…You really are the worst, Master.”

“I’m honored.” I smiled.

I was the Lord of Disease.

Species: Human.

Objective: Human extinction.

Right now, I was just taking a little break.

“—But we’re not cuddling.”

“We’re not?”

“We’re not!” Liz said firmly.

Good to know. So, holding hands and hugging wasn’t considered cuddling to her. I’d keep the fact that I was perfectly content with this level of intimacy to myself.

I wonder what would happen if Liz showed her affectionate side…

I was starting to look forward to the future.

-Volume 1 End-

50: The Reason for the Name

After the others and the Barghests left, I turned to Lathus.

“Lathus, thank you again. You saved my life.”

“…Yeah.” Lathus nodded, his expression grim.

“His Majesty… told me.”

“Oh? That I’m a brilliant supreme commander, utterly devoted to the Demon King, his army, and this nation?”

“No, you idiot.” His wolf-like eyes pierced me.

“—That you’re a decoy!”

“Ah, that.” I nodded.

“It’s a rational strategy, isn’t it?” I smiled faintly.

“—I am the Lord of Disease. Humanity’s primary target.”

I had my reasons for using this name.

For maintaining a mansion on the outskirts of the capital.

Even for having a minimal security detail.

“I’m a decoy, to draw their attention, to make their movements easier to predict.”

“!”

“This time, too. The humans risked a dangerous mountain crossing and lost at least one hero-class warrior. And not just him. All the effort that went into supporting him… all for nothing.”

This time had been dangerous, due to the unexpected infiltration route and the ‘unhealthy medicine’ the enemy had been using. But even so, it was all within the scope of my duties as the Lord of Disease.

“Enough with the rhetoric! Why?! Why didn’t you say anything?!”

“I’m sorry. But it’s classified. The location and minimal security are meant to make me look like an easy target, so I couldn’t tell anyone in the Beastman Army, even if they were supreme commanders…”

“…Don’t apologize so readily. It’s infuriating.”

“I didn’t do anything wrong.”

“I’m angry!”

“—At what?”

“That… well…”

“Your people tried to kill me too, didn’t they? A fellow supreme commander, just because they felt like it.”

That incident had also been quite dangerous, as an attack motivated by sudden, impulsive emotions wouldn’t be detected by the usual security measures.

“…My apologies.”

“I’m not angry. You stopped them.”

“…Doesn’t it… bother you?”

Lathus lowered his gaze.

“His Majesty is using you.”

“I know. Or rather, I proposed this.”

“…What?”

“The Lord of Disease is a tool. A high-value target placed in a location with minimal security, to draw out enemy spies, to be used by potential rebels, to expose those in our ranks who might disobey orders simply because they hate humans. And of course, it also serves as a cover for the field operative units and as wartime propaganda.”

Even now, I didn’t think I was particularly valuable in this world.

What I’d said was obvious.

No matter how ruthless it sounded, it was simple logic, a theory anyone could implement.

That was why I had taken this name.

To make it seem special.

To make me seem special to this nation.

With that resolve, I had accepted the position of supreme commander.

“Damn it… I’m starting to lose track of what you’re saying.” Lathus muttered, looking bewildered.

“—You… you knew you were a decoy? And you suggested it?”

He shook his head slowly.

“…That nearly being assassinated is… part of your job?”

“It seems that way.”

“Are you insane?!”

“I’m not insane. There are some things you can’t say, even to your lifesaver.”

“What do you call that kind of position… if not insane…?”

Lathus covered his eyes with his furred, clawed hand and looked up at the ceiling.

“Damn it…!” Tears traced paths through his black-grey fur.

“Why are you getting angry and crying?”

“Because you’re not, you idiot…!”

Being the Lord of Disease wasn’t an enviable position, nor was it all fun and games.

“…Thank you, Lathus.”

But if someone cared enough to cry for me…

“I was… happy. To be brought to a place where I knew no one… dragged into a war… almost dying…”

I had been on those ramparts. Alone, with no one to rely on. All I could do was lash out against the injustice, a desperate act of defiance.

“And then, the people of this nation saved me. They healed my wounds, gave me food and shelter, treated me with kindness. …People who were at war with humanity, knowing I was human, still treated me with kindness.”

I smiled, remembering the short time I’d spent with Bridget.

I glanced at the apple bunny Liz had made for me.

There was kindness in this world. Even in this world of endless war between races.

I continued,

“I was happy.”

And to repay that kindness, I had become the Lord of Disease.

“…I see.”

“…Yes.” I nodded, my smile deepening.

“And even though I’ve accepted the possibility of death… I’ve never felt abandoned.”

I might be a tool. But I had chosen this.

And I had people who would risk their lives to protect me.

I had a future I wanted, a role to fulfill. And I had the resolve.

Therefore, there was only one name I could use in this world.

“I am the Lord of Disease. A supreme commander of the Demon King’s army, and an evil sorceress.”

“…You’re… truly something else.”

Lathus grinned, his fanged mouth wide.

“Coming from Lathus, the Broken Fang, a supreme commander of the Demon King’s army, that’s quite a compliment.”

I, too, smiled, my mouth devoid of fangs. Like smiling at a friend.