When I witnessed my father's death, something inside me changed. It was as if nothing could bring me joy anymore. As I exited the white gate, it returned to its crimson hue. The moment I stepped outside, I fainted from exhaustion.
When I opened my eyes again, I found myself lying in Koloton's lap. As he realized I was awake, he rubbed his eyes and looked at me with gentle concern.
Koloton: "You're finally awake, my lord. Forgive me—I must have fallen asleep while waiting for you."
Tokito: "It's fine. Inform Kortus. We're returning to the palace."
Koloton: "It's a long way to your palace, but… we were prepared, knowing you'd say that."
Lifting me up gently with his arms, Koloton carried me outside the fortress. A red carriage was waiting at the gates. He carefully handed me over to Kortus and spoke firmly:
Koloton: "You two wait inside. We'll escort you safely."
Kortus sat me down across from him, then sat beside me. Rubbing his hands together, he seemed to be gathering the courage to speak.
Kortus: "My lord, your true hardship begins now—the journey to claim the throne."
Tokito: "Hah. These are the easiest days for me."
…At least, I hope so. I may have declared I'd fight for the throne, but I have no actual plan. I don't even know how many soldiers remain loyal to me. And I'm certainly not strong enough to make a proper show of power.
Kortus: "You seem tense, my lord. Is something troubling you?"
Tokito: "I just… feel weak. I may appear powerful, but would you permit me to show you this vulnerable side?"
Kortus: "You're safe with me, my lord. Always."
Tokito: "Thank you, Kortus. I'll claim the throne and make you my official guardian!"
Kortus: "All I wish for is your safety, my lord. My life is of no value compared to that."
He's… really too kind. The only demon I don't feel the need to hide my darker side from. I guess the system allows him to be near me specifically. That works in my favor. I turned my head to the window and saw the greenery outside. The tall trees swayed in the wind, little monsters scurried around, and flowers released a gentle fragrance into the air.
And then—the blue screen appeared again.
"New mana regions acquired. Mana collection capacity increased by 3%."
…My eyes darted around. So that's the reason. I hadn't grown stronger in a long time. Looks like I really do need to level up if I want the throne. But… can Kortus see what I see? Does he know about levels?
I began to speak softly, trying to gauge his understanding.
Tokito: "How do you determine levels in this world? Do you have a screen like I do?"
Kortus: "Yes, my lord. I have one as well. It displays our levels and explains our spells—but nothing beyond that. If you wish to see your level, just say it internally. I usually say 'power' to bring it up."
Knowing my level would be helpful. I'd know how much stronger I need to become. I guess I should try it…
Power!
…Nothing happened.
"Invalid command. You are using a different version. Please say Rank to access the level panel."
So I'm using a different version? Alright then.
Rank!
…It worked. Whoa… There's a lot of information here.
User: Masajuka Tokito
Title: Demon King
Level: C/S
Mana Points: 349
Endurance: 23
Physical Strength: 342
It says C/S… Wait, is C low? How can I raise it? I guess I'll have to learn magic. Hopefully, it increases with time. Otherwise… I'll be a weak Demon King, and nobody wants that.
Kortus: "Did you find it, my lord? Any problems?"
Tokito: "It says C/S… What does that mean?"
Kortus: "The first letter is your current level. The letter after the slash is your potential max level."
Tokito: "Is S considered high?"
Kortus: "Once you reach it, you'll surpass most beings. But beware—the Hero is extremely powerful."
The Hero… I wonder what level he is. I'd like to meet him—though I doubt he'd hesitate to kill me on sight. I'm already furious he killed my father. I must get stronger. Fast.
Tokito: "Hey, you trash driving this thing—how much longer? I could walk there faster!"
Driver: "Apologies, my lord. We'll arrive shortly."
Tokito: "Such a dull journey…"
Kortus: "Try not to overthink, my lord. Sometimes, calm is good."
Tokito: "Hmm, perhaps you're right."
After a long journey, we finally arrived at the southern palace. As I looked at the massive white walls and the huge iron gates guarded by demon soldiers, I was stunned. My own palace... was more majestic than I imagined.
But before I could step inside, someone blocked me—my cousin, Gefrit.
Gefrit: "Where do you think you're going? Who are you? Why do you look like one of us?"
Gefrit stood in front of the gate, arms crossed, surrounded by guards. As Koloton and the others handed off the horses, they returned to stand by my side. I examined the man before me, unsure of who he was.
When he said I couldn't enter, I raised my voice.
Tokito: "Do I need your permission to enter my palace?"
Gefrit: "Who the hell do you think you are?! Guards—arrest him!"
Kortus: "Lord Gefrit, please wait! The one before you is the Demon King!"
Koloton: "Hey, little Gefrit. If I were you, I'd shut up."
Gefrit: "You're with him, Koloton? The Demon King is dead. I don't know who this kid is, but he should leave."
Tokito: "Do you want me to kill you? I'd be happy to."
A dark aura surged from me, and Gefrit trembled. The sheer pressure of it forced him to his knees.
"This aura… It's real. Even if he doesn't intend to, he's strong. Fine, I accept him—but I won't make it easy."
Gefrit: "And who told you you had any right to this house, kid?"
Tokito: "Are you testing my patience, YOU USELESS TRASH?!"
Gefrit's body froze as even his own soldiers turned their weapons on him. My threatening presence alone had made their instincts kick in. Gefrit finally bowed his head in surrender.
I, the new Demon King, blessed by mana, made all kneel before me.
Tokito: "That's enough obedience. I still need you alive—for now."
Not like I was really going to kill him. The intimidation worked, so now it's time to enter.
I wonder how grand this palace truly is?
As I stepped inside, the vibrant colors overwhelmed my senses. Two massive staircases led upward, with pristine white walls adorned with paintings. The stairs were a rich, deep brown, and even the flooring was made from elegant, polished wood.
In the grand hall, several viscounts were already kneeling before me in reverence.
Momoi: "Welcome, my lord. Your birth has brought honor to our kingdom."
Xavier: "You truly live up to the rumors, Demon King."
Tokito: "Hold on—I have a question. Why are you all here?"
Koloton: "They've all gathered to support your ascension to the throne."
As I walked among the viscounts, one of them caught my eye. A demon with six triangular marks on his face—one I'd seen several times before.
Tokito: "You… You're the demon from the castle with the triangle markings."
Momoi: "It honors me that you remember. I thought you'd forgotten. Your father never liked me."
I wonder why… Maybe he thought a lustful demon like him would be trouble. But for some reason, I found him trustworthy. He actually seems like a decent guy.
Tokito: "Even if I never saw my father's face, I can tell he was weaker than me. I'll turn you pieces of trash into beings worth looking at!"
Kortus: "What are your plans, my lord? To claim the throne, you'll need the loyalty of all the viscounts."
A plan, huh… Historically, kings often turned even their enemies into allies. If I can make those already loyal to me doubt me—then win them back—they'll realize my true strength.
…Ugh, I feel strange again.
"Soul has reached adequate maturity. Target age -5-."
My cells began to tremble again, and my vision blacked out.
When I opened my eyes, I was sitting on a crimson throne. Everyone stared at me in silent awe. My body had grown once again. My limbs were stronger. My tail and horns had become more defined.
The viscounts began murmuring excitedly as I awakened.
Koloton: "Do you have any plan in mind, my lord? How exactly will you claim the throne?"
Tokito: "I don't need a plan, but it might be wise if I guide you. First of all, how many viscounts are here?"
Koloton: "Including me, six viscounts stand ready to lay down our lives for your plan. The moment you command, our armies will surround the throne room."
Tokito: "If six regions are with me, that leaves eight regions remaining. An all-out attack might leave us at a disadvantage."
A viscount (Viker) spoke up:
Viker: "Then what do you intend to do, my lord?"
Tokito: "My clothes must not be stained by the blood of trash, and I must secure their allegiance. The most sensible plan is to make you appear among the ranks of our foes. We do not know how many enemies there are, and we must prevent any uprising."
Xavier: "You are truly brilliant, my lord. I am at your command until our army is obliterated. With my force of 3,000 warriors and 4,000 elite units, I will stand by you."
Haniel: "I swear to do what is best for you and our kingdom."
Koloton: "If you wish for my death, I will die, Demon King. I have served kings for generations."
Gefrit: "Since you're my cousin, I have nothing of value left but you. I will always stand by your side."
I truly felt at home… It was as if I had a family—a view so beautiful I could hardly bear it. Being among demons wasn't so bad after all.
Tokito: "Hah, don't speak as if your support is vast. There is no need for you to die—you'd only be wasted."
Kortus: "Shall we discuss the plan in detail, my lord? You must ascend to the throne soon, or the viscounts will choose one from among themselves."
I needed to hurry, yet a hollow emptiness weighed on my soul. Perhaps it was because I couldn't bear this burden any longer. I must seize the throne as soon as possible. Ah, a plan came to mind.
Tokito: "Here's the best plan for you trash: Kortus and I will infiltrate the capital castle, while you go ahead and secure your positions. Do not utter anything that would reveal that you are supporting me. When everyone sees that I have drawn all within my orbit, victory will come easily."
Koloton: "In that case, it makes sense for me to be the first to oppose matters in the throne room, my lord. I have always been the most outspoken among the viscounts."
Tokito: "By then, I will have grown stronger. How much time do we have?"
Kortus: "The royal selection will commence in one year, my lord."
That was plenty of time. I must become as powerful as I can. But how do I increase my strength?
A blue screen suddenly appeared:
"Magic acquisition achieved. You may now level up."
It seemed that the system had decided the time had come. It was time to become the strongest! Even reaching level A would be sufficient.
Tokito: "Where in these lands can I raise my level? Even though I'm stronger than you trash, I must become even more powerful."
Koloton: "There is the former mage army leader, Rodius Victur. He can help you; one of my soldiers will show you the way."
Tokito: "Give me the strongest soldier you have."
Koloton: "My mightiest commander will come with you. Call Nanagi and have him guide them—and be our lord's shield so that no one may lay a finger on your delicate form."
When I summoned Nanagi, I expected an armored commander. Instead, a man emerged carrying only a sword. Dressed in a black outfit that was a mix between shorts and a T-shirt, he had black bracelets on both wrists. His hair was straight, long, and black. He approached the center of the hall, knelt before me, and spoke while looking at Koloton.
Nanagi: "As you command, Viscount Koloton. I shall protect you at any cost."
Koloton: "Ha ha ha—if you do that, you'd be doing well; otherwise, how do you expect to escape my grasp?"
Nanagi: "To die in my duty is an honor."
"Wait, wait, wait… What is this enormous, tailed Koloton saying? Why would he hand over such a monster to us? He seems almost human… yet his eyes—four in total! Oh my God, help me... What is happening to me? My chest feels tight! Damn it, my heart won't beat!"
"Forbidden word detected. The Demon King cannot say that word."
After taking a deep breath, the blue screen went dark, and my heart resumed its beat. Oh, I nearly died for a moment there. Though no one else would understand, I raised my hands behind my head. As everyone watched, I realized the time had come.
Tokito: "If everyone has understood, vanish from my sight! See to it that you fulfill your duties."
In an instant, the viscounts bowed their heads and disappeared. After a brief moment of rest in my palace, I wondered what I would do next. When I rose from level C to level A, what awaited me? I spent my time sleeping on Kortus's leg—perhaps he already knew what the future held.
When I witnessed my father's death, my demeanor changed irrevocably; nothing could bring me pleasure anymore. Exiting the white gate, I saw it revert to a crimson hue. When I came outside, I blacked out from exhaustion. When I opened my eyes again, I was lying in Koloton's arms. As he realized I was awake, he began gently rubbing his eyes and gazing at me.
Koloton: "At last, you have awakened, my lord. I'm sorry—I must have dozed off waiting for you."
Tokito: "It's all right. Tell Kortus—we're going back to the palace."
Koloton: "Returning to your palace takes time, but we were ready, knowing you'd say that."
Koloton cradled me in his arms and carried me out of the castle. At the gate, a red carriage awaited us. He slowly entrusted me to Kortus, saying, "You two remain inside; we'll transport you safely."
Kortus seated me in a large chair before joining me. He rubbed his hands as if to prepare for an important conversation.
Kortus: "My lord, your difficult times are about to begin—the journey to become your kingdom's ruler."
Tokito: "Hah, these are the simplest of times for me."
I hoped it would be so. Even though I might someday declare a war for the throne, I have no proper plan. I don't even know how many soldiers my palace commands. I'm not nearly powerful enough to stage a grand show of strength.
Kortus: "I'm worried by how tense you appear, my lord. Is something amiss?"
Tokito: "I only felt weak. Even if I seem powerful, would you allow me to show you my vulnerable side?"
Kortus: "Do not worry, my lord—you are safe by my side."
Tokito: "Thank you, Kortus. I will seize the throne and declare you my official protector!"
Kortus: "All I desire is your safety, my lord. My life means little compared to yours."
Kortus truly is an exceptionally kind demon—the only one before whom I need not hide my darker traits. It seems the system even grants him a special allowance, which works to my advantage. When I turned my gaze to the window, I saw vibrant greenery. Tall trees swayed in the breeze, little creatures scampered about, and flowers exuded a delightful fragrance.
Then, once again, the blue screen reappeared:
"New mana regions acquired. Mana gathering capacity increased by 3%."
While my eyes searched for the source, I realized it was because I had not grown stronger for a long time. If I truly want the throne, I need to level up. But can you see what I see? Do you know about these levels? I spoke softly, hoping for an answer.
Tokito: "How do you determine levels in this world? Do you have the same virtual screen as I do?"
Kortus: "Yes, my lord—I have it too. It states our levels and explains our spells, but that is all it can do. If you wish to know your level, simply speak internally; I usually invoke it by saying 'power.'"
Learning my level would be useful—I could then gauge how much further I needed to grow. I tried again:
Tokito: "Power!"
This time, nothing. Then the screen flashed:
"Invalid command. You are using a different version; please say Rank to access the level panel."
So, different… All right, then.
Tokito: "Rank!"
And now it worked. Wow… an abundance of information appeared:
User: Masajuka Tokito
Title: Demon King
Level: C/S
Mana Points: 349
Endurance: 23
Physical Strength: 342
It said "C/S." Wait—does that mean my current level is C and my potential maximum is S? How do I raise it? I suppose I must learn magic. Over time, it should increase; otherwise, no one would want a weak Demon King.
Kortus: "Have you found it, my lord? Is there any issue?"
Tokito: "It says C/S. What does that mean, Kortus?"
Kortus: "The letter before the slash represents your current level, and the one after indicates the highest level you can achieve."
Tokito: "Is S considered a high level?"
Kortus: "When you reach it, you'll be stronger than most beings. But be cautious—the Hero is exceedingly powerful."
I wondered what level the Hero might be. I'd like to meet him, though I fear he may kill me on sight—especially since I already harbor rage for having killed my father. I must find a way to grow stronger. And quickly.
Tokito: "Hey, you trash behind the wheel, how much longer? I'd reach there faster on foot!"
Driver: "I'm sorry, my lord; we'll be there shortly."
Tokito: "What a tiresome journey."
Kortus: "Do not strain your mind too much, my lord. Sometimes, tranquility is best."
Tokito: "Hmph, you might be right."
After a long journey, we finally arrived at the palace in the southern region. The sight of the palace—its immaculate white walls and the massive iron gate guarded by demon soldiers—dazzled me. I longed to enter immediately, but at the gate, my cousin Gefrit blocked the way.
Gefrit: "Where do you think you're going? Who exactly are you? Why do you look like one of us?"
Gefrit stood at the gate, arms folded, flanked by soldiers. After Koloton and the others delivered their horses, they came to stand beside me. I scrutinized Gefrit's face, unfamiliar and stern. When I declared that I would not be kept out, I raised my voice:
Tokito: "Must I account to you when I enter my own palace?"
Gefrit: "Who do you think you are?! Arrest him!"
Kortus: "Lord Gefrit, please, stand down! The one before you is the Demon King."
Koloton: "Hey, little Gefrit, if I were you, I'd be silent."
Gefrit: "Are you with him then, or is it Koloton? The Demon King is dead. I don't know what business you have here, but return where you came from."
Tokito: "Do you want me to kill you? I'd be delighted to."
My aura, dark and potent, made Gefrit tremble; his own aura forced him onto his knees. Internally, he admitted, "There is indeed the aura of the Demon King—even if he does it unintentionally, his power is overwhelming. All right, I accept—but it won't be easy."
Gefrit: "Who told you that you have any right here, you brat?"
Tokito: "Are you testing my patience, YOU USELESS PIECE OF TRASH?"
Gefrit's body shivered as his soldiers began to raise their weapons. Unable to withstand it, Gefrit bowed his head to greet our lord. The new Demon King, blessed by mana, had every man on his knees.
Tokito: "That's enough submissiveness. You all have done your duty—ensure it is complete."
Once more, I bid farewell as the viscounts dispersed. Later in my palace, I wondered what my next move would be. What awaited me once I advanced from level C to level A? I merely lay on Kortus's leg, deep in thought—was the future beckoning me?
Koloton: "Do you have any plan, my lord? How exactly will you take the throne?"
Tokito: "I don't need a plan, but it wouldn't hurt if I guided you. First, how many viscounts are here?"
Koloton: "Including me, there are six viscounts ready to sacrifice our lives for your cause. The moment you command, our armies will surround the throne room."
Tokito: "If six regions are with me, then eight regions remain. Launching an assault might put us at a disadvantage."
Viscount (Viker): "Then what do you plan to do, my lord?"
Tokito: "I must ensure that my clothes are not soiled by the blood of these trash, and I need to secure their allegiance. The most logical plan is to portray you as if you are on our side. We don't yet know how many enemies there are, and we must prevent any internal rebellion."
Xavier: "You are exceedingly clever, my lord. I am at your command until my force vanishes—3,000 warriors and 4,000 elite units will stand by your side."
Haniel: "I swear I will do what is best for you and for our kingdom."
Koloton: "If you wish for me to perish, so be it, Demon King. I have served kings throughout the ages."
Gefrit: "Since you are my cousin, I have nothing left of value except you. I will always be at your side."
I truly felt at home—as if I had a family. The sight was so heartwarming that I could hardly bear it. Being among demons wasn't so bad after all.
Tokito: "Hah, don't speak as if your support is grand. There's no need for you to die—I'd hate to waste you."
Kortus: "Shall we discuss the plan in detail, my lord? You must ascend to the throne soon, or the viscounts will select one among themselves."
I had to hurry, yet a hollow feeling gnawed at my soul. Perhaps I simply couldn't bear this weight any longer. I must seize the throne immediately. Ah, a plan occurred to me.
Tokito: "Here's my plan, you trash. Kortus and I will infiltrate the capital castle; you go ahead and secure our positions. Do not utter anything that reveals you're supporting me. Once everyone sees that I have drawn every soul to me, victory will be assured."
Koloton: "In that case, it makes sense that I should be the first to oppose matters in the throne room, my lord. I have always been the most vociferous among the viscounts."
Tokito: "By then, I will have grown stronger. How much time do we have?"
Kortus: "The royal selection will begin in one year, my lord."
A very good span indeed. I must become as powerful as possible. But how can I increase my strength?
A system message flashed:
"Magic acquisition achieved. You can now level up."
It appeared the system had determined that now was the moment. I was to become the strongest! Even reaching level A would suffice.
Tokito: "Where in these lands can I raise my level? Though I am stronger than you trash, I still must grow."
Koloton: "The former mage army leader, Rodius Victur, can assist you. One of my soldiers will show you the way."
Tokito: "Then send me a soldier strong enough to accompany me."
Koloton: "My mightiest commander will join you. Summon Nanagi to guide them—and be our lord's shield so that no one dares touch your noble body."
When I called for Nanagi, I expected an armored commander. Instead, a man appeared carrying only a sword, dressed in black garments that were a curious mix of shorts and a T-shirt. He wore black bracelets on his arms, and his hair, long and straight, was as black as night. He approached the center of the hall, knelt before me, and addressed Koloton.
Nanagi: "At your command, Viscount Koloton. I will protect you at any cost."
Koloton: "Ha ha ha, you'd better do so; otherwise, how do you expect to escape from me?"
Nanagi: "To die in service is my honor."
Wait, what is this enormous, tailed Koloton saying? Why would he entrust such a beast to us? He appears almost human—but his eyes, there are four of them! Oh God, help me… My chest tightens! Damn it, my heart won't beat!
A sudden system alert interrupted the chaos:
"Forbidden word detected. The Demon King cannot utter that word."
Taking a deep breath, the blue screen vanished and my heart resumed its beating. For a brief moment, I thought I had died. No one else might understand, but I raised my hands behind my head. As everyone watched, I knew the time had come.
Tokito: "If everyone understands, vanish from my sight! Ensure that you all execute your duties."
All the viscounts bowed their heads and, in an instant, disappeared. Left alone in my palace for a while, I pondered what lay ahead. When I eventually rose from level C to level A, what awaited me? I spent my time sleeping against Kortus's leg—wondering if he already knew what the future held.