Chapter 7: Into the Demon King’s Territory

Despite the many worries weighing on my mind, the journey continued. We finally set foot into the Demon King’s Territory, and along the way, we found ourselves facing off against a constant barrage of powerful monsters.

"This is the Demon King’s Territory for you! The enemies are on a whole different level!" I shouted over the din of battle.

"Yeah... I didn't exactly expect to run into a whole pack of Archdemons out here..." Iris added. "I wonder what would happen if a demon caught me... ♡"

The creature before us—an Archdemon—was a humanoid devil that attacked using both powerful magic and razor-sharp claws. Apparently, even a single one possessed enough power to wipe a small town off the map.

"However... they are no match for us. <Let there be a Barrier>!"

"Sorry, but when it comes to magic, I’m not losing. <O lightning of the underworld, become a spear and pierce our enemies>!"

The Archdemon unleashed a bolt of black lightning, but Fiona’s barrier deflected it effortlessly. In return, Iris fired back an even more powerful surge of black electricity.

"Now!"

Seizing the moment the Archdemons faltered, Cecilia and I lunged in for close-quarters combat.

"What’s wrong? You’re wide open. <Grant me my Holy Sword>."

"Their power is their own undoing," Cecilia remarked. "These creatures have no experience fighting enemies as formidable as us. I shall take your head... <Blink Strike>."

My Holy Sword and Cecilia’s blindingly fast slashes tore through the Archdemons before they could even think to resist.

Compared to the monsters we'd faced just days ago, this was a pack of true nightmares, but thanks to my cheat skills and our party's coordination, we broke through them without much trouble.

"Heh... did those filthy devils really think they could stand against our Hero’s party?" Fiona sneered.

"Still, having this many fights in a row is really starting to take a toll," I admitted.

"The mana consumption is certainly intense..." Iris wiped her brow. "I wish we could find a place to rest for a bit."

Fiona looked down at the fallen demons with cold eyes, but fatigue was etched into her features. Cecilia was also panting heavily, unable to hide her exhaustion. Even Iris seemed low on mana; she had beads of sweat on her forehead as she downed a small mana potion.

I wasn't doing much better myself. But with this many consecutive battles... the thought crossed my mind that the Demon King might be leading us straight to them.

"The next town is still a ways off. Let’s find a spot to take a breather."

I scanned the surroundings warily. That’s when I spotted an old stone building peeking through the trees.

"Is that... a temple?" Fiona asked, squinting.

It was overgrown with weeds and partially collapsed, but it retained a solemn atmosphere that suggested it had once been a place of worship.

"To think such a temple exists in a place crawling with monsters..." Cecilia muttered in awe. Iris also turned an intrigued gaze toward the ruins.

"That crest... it belongs to Bacchus, the god of wine. There might be relics from the old era sleeping within. Lord Kamiya, shall we investigate this temple?"

Fiona spoke with a fervor I wouldn't have expected from her usual gentle demeanor. She even grabbed my arm and tugged, as if to say she wouldn't budge until we went inside.

It was rare to see Fiona this interested in something... If I’d just met her, I might have understood, but by now I knew how little she actually cared for the gods. Usually, she’d be the one sneering, 'This is all that’s left of a god who lost his following.'

"Fiona, is there something inside?"

When I asked, Fiona shifted her gaze for a moment before answering with a face full of anticipation.

"Yes, actually... According to old records, a legendary relic called the 'Chalice of Divine Wine' is said to rest in this area. It’s a miraculous cup that can produce any vintage of fine liquor... As a Saint, I simply must confirm its existence!"

"Wait... Fiona, you just want a drink, don't you?"

"Seriously, how much do you love booze...?" Iris groaned.

"W-well, there’s that too... but drinking that wine also restores mana and stamina! With the increase in monster encounters, don't you think it’s necessary for our quest?"

Fiona pleaded desperately as Cecilia and Iris looked on with exasperated eyes.

So it was just about the alcohol... No, wait. Could this be a trap set by the Demon King?!

Fiona’s love for drink was common knowledge by now. It was possible the Demon King was exploiting that weakness to lure her—and us—into a dangerous place. Or, if she was the Demon King, she might be trying to set us up.

Regardless, our search for the Demon King was already hitting a wall... trap or not, we had to keep moving.

I stole a glance at Fiona’s face. She wore her usual elegant smile, but deep in her eyes, I thought I saw a glint—like a predator eyeing its prey, or perhaps just someone dying for a drink.

Honestly, I didn't want to doubt her... or anyone in the party, for that matter. That was exactly why I needed to see this through—to prove her innocence.

"Alright... let’s check it out. But do you know where the 'Chalice of Divine Wine' is located?"

"I knew I could count on you, Lord Kamiya! As for the path, don't you worry. I’ve memorized the general layout of these temples, so it shouldn't be a problem..."

Fiona smiled brightly, cutely tugging on my hem to urge me forward.

Man, she really does love her wine... Or is this bubbly attitude just an act by the Demon King to make me lower my guard?

Suspicion swirled in my mind as we headed inside. Iris and Cecilia didn't seem to have any objections, but I cast a suspicious eye toward them too. After all, there was a chance this was their trap…

The interior of the temple was even more dilapidated than the outside. Dust lay thick on the floor, cobwebs draped across the halls, and fallen pillars blocked the paths. However, there was a strange atmosphere—a mix of holy mana and a scent that was both sweet and somehow ominous.

"I definitely... smell alcohol."

"Hehe, wonderful! This rich aroma... it’s like the celestial wine cellar of the gods themselves!"

"She’s more hyped than I've ever seen her..." Iris muttered.

Fiona was inhaling the temple air with an ecstatic expression. She looked like a kid in a candy store.

I stayed alert, paying close attention to the flow of mana around us. My <Infinity Mana> skill was constantly probing the area. If even a hint of the Demon King’s power leaked out, I’d know instantly.

As we moved deeper into the temple, the presence of powerful mana grew thicker.

"I was worried, but luckily we haven't run into any monsters yet..."

"Fufu, perhaps it’s the divine protection of the gods. Bacchus truly is great."

"I think that’s the first time I've ever heard you praise a god..." Iris noted.

"Oh? I’m a very devout Saint, you know."

"Fiona-dono, you shouldn't get too far ahead," Cecilia warned.

Relieved that we hadn't encountered any monsters, I watched as Fiona’s eyes lit up.

"It’s just past here! I’m certain the 'Chalice of Divine Wine' is ahead! Let’s hurry!"

"Fiona, don't get so carried away."

Seeing the usually calm woman acting like a child made me smirk a little. Cecilia and Iris seemed to feel the same, judging by their wry smiles. We all knew that despite her hidden black-hearted nature, she cared about the party's health and stayed tense for our sake during the journey. Seeing her this relaxed was actually kind of nice.

I pushed open the doors to a large hall. The room was decorated with unsettling stone statues—monstrous things with bat-like wings, lion manes, eagle talons, and goat horns. At the very back, on an altar-like structure, sat an old chalice.

Okay, that looks incredibly suspicious...

"Is that the 'Chalice of Divine Wine'?"

Just as Fiona took a step forward with sparkling eyes, the room shook. A malevolent mana erupted from the chalice, taking on a humanoid form.

"Gahahaha! How foolish, mortals! This temple has already fallen into the hands of one of the Four Heavenly Kings—the Demon Lord!"

Along with the voice of the self-proclaimed Demon Lord—a humanoid devil—the surrounding stone statues began to move.

"Those are Gargoyles!" Iris shouted. "They have high magic resistance and physical defense!"

"A monster’s trap?! The Demon Lord is a monster said to have wiped out entire cities single-handedly. Kamiya-dono, be on your guard!"

As Iris and Cecilia raised their voices, I turned my gaze to Fiona, who was standing there silently. She was the one who wanted to come here. Was she the Demon King after all...? That’s what I thought, until...

Fiona staggered toward the Demon Lord as if she couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"Wait... what about the 'Chalice of Divine Wine'?"

"Hah! I used that piece of junk as fuel for my own mana. It was a useless toy that could do nothing but make wine, but it provided a decent snack."

"Excuse me? I’m going to kill you."

Fiona’s voice was so low and gravelly it sent a chill down my spine. Honestly, she was scarier than the Demon Lord!

"H-hmph! You foolish heroes who fell for my trap... this place shall be your grave!"

Even the Demon Lord seemed to flinch for a second at Fiona’s terrifying tone.

Breaking out in a cold sweat next to the most murderous intent I'd ever felt from Fiona, I readied my Holy Sword and glared at the pack of Gargoyles and the Demon Lord.

"Fiona, Cecilia, Iris! Let’s go!"

At my command, the battle began.

"<Let there be a Barrier>!"

Surprisingly composed, Fiona quickly deployed a holy barrier, blocking the pitch-black mana bolts fired by the Demon Lord. Every time a bolt hit the barrier, a shrill clink echoed through the room, sending sparks flying.

It hadn't budged against an Archdemon’s magic, yet it was struggling now... As expected of one of the Four Heavenly Kings.

"This is for making Fiona mad! <O giant of flame, incinerate my enemies>!"

"I understand the pain of having one's rewards snatched away. I shall carve you up in Fiona’s stead... <Blink Strike>!"

Iris’s magic scored a direct hit, but the Gargoyles didn't stop. Cecilia’s sword slammed into their stone bodies, but she couldn't cut deep. With both magic resistance and high physical defense, they were literal walls.

"Dammit, these Gargoyles are too tough!"

"I need a more powerful spell... Can you buy me some time for the incantation?" Iris asked.

The combination of the Demon Lord firing powerful magic from the back while the Gargoyles acted as meat shields was proving to be a real pain.

"He’s tough, but our teamwork is tougher! Fiona, handle the barriers! Cecilia, help me take down anything that gets close! Iris, get your ultimate spell ready!"

"Gahahaha! You think I’ll let you? Tremble before the hundred Gargoyles I stayed up all night crafting!"

Wait, he made these by hand?

I activated <Overdrive>, accelerating instantly to plunge into the mass of Gargoyles.

"Get out of the way! <Grant me my Holy Sword>!"

With a single swing, I cleaved a Gargoyle in two. But they just kept coming, and the Demon Lord’s black bolts were still raining down. Even with my cheat skills, this sheer number and durability were turning it into a battle of attrition.

"Hero! We have to stop the Demon Lord’s casting or this will never end!" Fiona’s voice rang out.

She was right. As long as the Demon Lord kept firing high-level magic, we’d be stuck on the defensive.

Luckily, I could one-shot them. I was about to force my way through when...

"Gahahaha! You can one-shot my Gargoyles? You truly are the Hero who defeated the Demon King. But did you think I’d fight without a plan? After I went to all the trouble of setting an ambush?"

The Demon Lord smirked.

This is bad... the only thing keeping the balance right now is me clearing these guys out... This guy is as cunning as a devil! Well, he is a devil.

"Now, bow before my masterpiece! Lilith, use your power to crush the Hero!"

At the Demon Lord’s triumphant command, the Gargoyles parted to reveal a special model... Lilith.

Unlike the others, this statue had shapely legs and an ample, exposed chest—a statue with an incredible figure. Furthermore, some kind of special magic must have been at work, because its skin looked as smooth and beautiful as a human’s... except for one thing.

'Mmm... ♡ I’ll take real good care of you... ♡'

"Another seduction attempt?! And why does it have a goat's head?! That’s just creepy!"

"What are you saying?! She’s an absolute beauty! You must have fallen for the 'Fallen Sage’s' illusions, right? That means you have a weakness for women. There’s no need to act tough."

Our sense of aesthetics is way too different! Besides, I have <Perfect Rejection>. If a Succubus couldn't tempt me, why would this? Did they not share that information?

"..."

Behind me, I felt a crushing pressure from the three girls as they held off the other Gargoyles. Their silent glares screamed, 'You better not be getting turned on by this.'

"Gahahaha! What’s wrong? Have you lost your will to fight before my masterpiece, Lilith? Now, let the—"

"<O Holy Sword, shatter all that is evil>!"

"Nooo! Lilith!"

The statue turned to ash in an instant under the light of my sword.

"You... how could you do something so horrible to my greatest creation?! I’ll never forgive you! Guh?!"

"The one who won't forgive you is me. Not only did you steal my divine wine, but you tried to seduce my Lord Kamiya with a rock... Everyone, I’m using my trump card. If you have complaints, save them for later and just be prepared."

Fiona threw her mace at the Demon Lord, her body trembling with rage. Her eyes, usually full of gentle light, were now glowing with a dark, terrifying radiance.

"Hey, it wasn't your wine..." the Demon Lord muttered, clutching his head where the mace had hit him.

Fiona ignored him and began an incantation. Her staff began to glow with a divine light. It was warm, yet carried an overwhelming sense of mystery.

"What is this eerie light...? I won't let you— Gwah!"

The Demon Lord tried to charge her, but he couldn't finish his sentence.

Enveloped in pure white light, Fiona dashed through the gap between the Gargoyles and delivered a brutal blow to the Demon Lord’s jaw with the mace she’d just picked back up.

"Guh... what is this strength?!"

The Demon Lord scrambled to create distance, but I wanted to know too. Since when was Fiona this good at melee?!

"<Divine Miracle... no, let my rage grant us the power to judge the foolish devil! Let there be a Holy War>!"

A brilliant white light washed over Cecilia and me. My fatigue vanished, replaced by a surging power. Actually, it was too much power.

"What is this...? I can feel an incredible strength boiling up from inside."

"This is my trump card as a Saint. Through the power of the gods, your physical abilities should be drastically enhanced. These pebbles shouldn't be a problem for you now. Just like this."

Fiona smiled as she picked up a piece of a destroyed Gargoyle and hurled it. It flew with terrifying speed, shattering another active Gargoyle on impact.

"Hah... I guess if my sword can't cut them, this will do."

Cecilia sheathed her sword, dodged a Gargoyle’s swing, and simply grabbed the monster, swinging it around like a club.

"Haha, amazing, Fiona... And this buff stacks with my Hero skills?!"

"Don't get cocky! Mortals, die!"

The Demon Lord unleashed a massive volley of black mana bolts, but they looked like they were moving in slow motion. I cut through all of them and closed the distance in a heartbeat.

"You’re good! But surely you can't fly!"

"Did you really think a foolish devil’s plan would escape me?"

"Gwah!"

The Demon Lord tried to use a Gargoyle as a shield to escape into the air, but a Gargoyle thrown by Fiona hit him dead-on. He let out a pathetic scream as he tumbled back down.

I didn't miss the opening. My Holy Sword pierced through the Demon Lord’s chest. He grimaced in pain, but his eyes weren't dead yet.

"Fool... don't underestimate my magic resistance as the master of Gargoyles!"

"Yeah, whatever. But we have a very reliable mage on our side. Now, Iris! Aim for the Demon Lord!"

The Demon Lord was desperately trying to suppress the holy power of my sword. I let go of the hilt just as Iris finished her incantation.

"You don't have to tell me twice! <O lightning of the underworld, become a spear and pierce our enemies>!"

The black lightning struck the Holy Sword still lodged in the Demon Lord, causing an explosion from within his body.

The holy power and the intense magic scorched his form simultaneously. The Demon Lord let out a cry of agony.

"Aaaaagh! W-wait! Just spare my life! Please! I’ll tell you everything about the Demon King’s army! I was just... I was just tricked by Belial! He told me I’d be promoted if I killed the Hero! Please!"

As I tried to push the sword in further to finish him off, someone stopped me. I turned around to see Fiona wearing a peaceful smile. Her eyes, however, were not smiling at all.

"I see... so you’ve repented. Then the gods shall surely forgive you."

"Y-you’ll save me?! As expected of a Saint! You’re so kind!"

"However, even if the gods forgive you, I won't. Grudges over food are scary, but grudges over drink are even worse."

"Wait— No! GYAAAAAAAAAA!"

Before the Demon Lord could even swing a claw, a terrifyingly dark holy light erupted from Fiona’s hand, incinerating him.

...Yeah, she was planning to execute him from the very beginning.

"You destroyed the 'Chalice of Divine Wine,' a treasure of this world. Regret it in the afterlife."

"Eek..."

I don't know who let out that tiny whimper.

We could only watch in terror as Fiona’s light erased every trace of the Demon Lord, leaving not even a speck of ash behind.

"Fufu, it seems it’s finally over. Talk about 'serves you right.'"

With the Demon Lord completely annihilated, the Gargoyles stopped moving and returned to being simple stone statues. Silence returned to the hall. Fiona was panting heavily, her shoulders heaving, but she looked satisfied as she glared at the spot where the Demon Lord had been. The fire of rage finally seemed to have died down in her eyes.

"Fiona... are you okay?"

"Yes... I used a bit too much mana. But with this... we’ve defeated one of the Four Heavenly Kings. Hehe, I hope he spends eternity regretting the fact that he destroyed such a rare item."

Seeing Fiona say that with her usual gentle smile made my skin crawl. This Saint might be scarier than the Demon King when she’s angry.

"Good grief... once Fiona gets serious, there’s no stopping her..." Iris sighed.

"Regardless, it was a help. Without Fiona-dono’s fury, we would have struggled far more," Cecilia noted, praising Fiona’s performance despite being a bit taken aback.

I agreed. If it wasn't for Fiona’s unexpected onslaught, it would have taken much longer to bring down the Demon Lord.

"By the way, what was that about 'complaints' earlier?"

"Oh, that... while this magic provides a temporary, powerful buff, it comes with a terrifying price."

" "Huh?" "

"Oh boy..."

Cecilia and I let out hollow sounds, while Iris looked at us with pure pity.

"W-what kind of price are we talking about?"

"Well... after this, you’ll be hit with muscle pain so hellish it lasts until the next day. I’m terribly sorry, it was an emergency..."

"Cecilia... how far is the nearest town?"

"...Quite far. If we run like our lives depend on it, we might make it by sundown."

"I am truly sorry. I suppose I let my blood boil over..."

Being wiped out by muscle pain while camping in the wild is not a funny joke.

"Alright, we’re heading to town immediately! Iris, sorry for this!"

"Kyaa! What are you doing?! If you’re going to carry me, at least do it right! You know... like a princess carry..."

"This is the most efficient way! I can't fight if both my hands are full!"

"Eeeek! My brain is rattling!"

I threw Iris over my shoulder like a sack of rice, and the three of us, with our enhanced physical abilities, bolted toward the town.

The possibility that one of them was the Demon King hadn't vanished yet. But seeing Fiona get that genuinely enraged over losing her wine... I really wanted to believe she was just a booze-loving Saint.

Who was the Demon King? As I racked my brain, a thought occurred to me: I hoped none of them were. Because honestly, I was having a lot of fun adventuring with these four.

We were rushing toward the town to beat the onset of the hellish muscle pain when...

"Kamiya-dono... someone is being attacked."

"Is that... the sound of clashing metal and screaming?"

"Kamiya-dono... what shall we do?"

Cecilia looked at me, her eyes saying everything.

I knew that logically, we should just ignore it. We were exhausted from fighting one of the Four Heavenly Kings, and we were on a literal ticking clock. But the answer was already decided.

"I know it’s more rational to walk away, but I’m a Hero. I can't just abandon people in trouble."

"Spoken like a true Hero. As a knight, I cannot turn a blind eye either!"

Cecilia, who had been looking at Iris and me with concern, let out a sigh of relief and offered a smile full of trust. Right... as a knight, she couldn't leave the weak behind.

"Fufu, I don't hate that idealistic side of you two."

"Good grief... I guess I’ll tag along. You better be grateful."

The other two nodded in sync. We had the muscle pain time limit to worry about, but if we combined our strengths, we should be able to save them quickly. Or so I thought... was I being too naive?

We ran toward the screams and found a carriage being swarmed by a pack of powerful monsters: Orcs, Goblin Shamans, and even a ferocious Wyvern. The carriage had overturned, and the escort adventurers looked badly wounded—one was clearly on his last legs. Still, seeing him clutching his spear to protect the passengers despite being covered in wounds made us want to help all the faster.

"Are you alright?! Hang on, we’re coming! Fiona, grab on!"

"Yes... hehe, it’s almost like I’m a princess."

"You guys are in the way! <O lightning of the underworld, become a spear and pierce our enemies>!"

Iris hopped off my shoulder, and Fiona climbed onto my back in her place. Startled by a soft sensation I hadn't felt with Iris, I closed the distance while the monsters were staggered by the magic.

"Who are you...?"

"Traveling Heroes. You’re safe now that we’re here."

"Ah... the rumored Demon King Slayer. That’s a relief..."

The nameless adventurer let out a breath of relief as soon as he saw me, losing consciousness as the tension left his body. The name 'Hero' really did have that kind of effect.

"I will treat this man. Lord Kamiya, please go and reassure the people in the carriage."

"I shall buy us some time! As a knight, I must protect the weak!"

"Right! I’m counting on you!"

Empowered by their voices, I peeked into the overturned carriage. Inside, a beautiful woman, a merchant-looking man, and a father and son were huddled together, trembling.

"Everyone, I’ve come to help. It’s okay now, you can relax."

"H-help has come? I’ll pay you! Just please, keep us safe! We finally managed to escape our village after the monsters attacked..."

The merchant grabbed onto me excitedly. He was clearly in a state of shock, and just as I was wondering how to calm him down...

"Please, compose yourself. This person appears to be the Hero. The monsters outside will be no match for him."

"The Hero... the one who killed the Demon King and the 'Fallen Sage'... Oh, thank heavens. God truly exists."

The beautiful woman, who had apparently overheard our conversation outside, smiled, and the merchant finally seemed to calm down. The father and son also let out sighs of relief.

"It looks like the horses are unhurt. I’m going to right the carriage. Does anyone know how to handle horses?"

I asked as I checked the state of the carriage and the passengers. The merchant raised his hand.

"I can. I traveled all over as a peddler when I was younger."

"That’s a huge help. Once I flip the carriage back over, we’re heading straight for town. It might be a bit rough, so hold on to something."

I was about to head back out to the fray when...

"Please wait, Hero-sama."

"Hm? What is it?"

"Please don't push yourself too hard just to save us. You are the hope of humanity."

The beautiful woman stared at me with moist eyes, wrapping her hands around mine. A sweet scent and a soft sensation washed over me.

The old me might have been flustered, but thanks to the constant honey traps from my party members lately, I managed to keep my cool.

"Thank you. I appreciate the sentiment."

"Lord Kamiya, I’ve finished treating the adventurer and the horses... My, you certainly seem busy."

"No, this isn't what it looks like!"

I broke into a cold sweat as Fiona peeked in with a smile that carried a terrifying amount of pressure. I scrambled outside and used my enhanced strength to right the carriage.

"Everyone, get in! We’re moving!"

I shouted to Cecilia and Iris, who were fighting to keep the monsters at bay, but they didn't even have the leeway to look back.

"Kamiya... something’s wrong with these monsters! No matter how much I hurt them, they just keep coming! It’s like they have no fear of death!"

As I cut down the monsters that slipped past the two of them, I realized Iris was right. What was going on...? These things were attacking as if they didn't feel pain. It wasn't just the Orcs and the Wyvern; even the normally cowardly Goblin Shamans were pushing forward to cast magic, almost as if they were trying to prove something.

"Tch, there’s no end to them! Kamiya-dono, what’s the plan?"

Fiona maintained the barrier, Iris kept them back with magic, and Cecilia held the front line. I was also cutting them down with <Overdrive>, but there were just too many. Moreover, having to protect the carriage meant I couldn't move as freely as usual, and we couldn't find a gap to get the carriage moving.

"Lord Kamiya, at this rate we’ll be overwhelmed! The carriage is going to be surrounded!"

Fiona’s voice was laced with urgency. Goblin magic and Wyvern breath slammed into the barrier, causing the holy light to flicker violently. An Orc’s charge lunged for the carriage, and Cecilia was desperately trying to hold it back.

"I’ll buy time! Go on ahead!"

With that declaration, she ignored my attempt to stop her and charged alone into the mass of monsters.

"Cecilia! That’s reckless!"

"Don't worry about me. I am a knight; I am used to such situations!"

My shouts didn't reach her as she plunged into the swarm.

Inside the carriage, the father, son, and the beautiful woman who had held my hand looked out with worried eyes. Getting them to town safely had to be the priority.

"Cecilia, I promise I’ll come back for you!"

"Blessings be upon you."

"If you die, I am never forgiving you!"

Though we hesitated for a moment at the resolve in Cecilia’s eyes, we all piled into the carriage and began racing toward town at full speed, fending off the monsters that tried to follow.

"Is... is that lady going to be alright?"

"Yeah. She’s the knight I trust more than anyone."

"I see... you must have a wonderful bond. With the Hero-sama and the others here, I’m sure everything will work out."

The beautiful woman smiled, and the tension in the carriage seemed to ease slightly.

"The town! I see the town!" the merchant shouted from the driver’s seat.

Hearing that, I signaled to Fiona and Iris, and they both nodded as if reading my mind.

"You should be safe from here. I’m counting on you two to look after them."

"P-please wait! There might still be monsters lurking. You should return to the town and call for reinforcements..."

"It’s okay. I believe these two can protect you. They are the Saint and Mage of the Hero’s party, after all."

I smiled at the beautiful woman, who was worriedly clutching my sleeve, and then I leapt from the carriage.

Stay safe, Cecilia.

"Cecilia, hang on!"

The moment I hit the ground, I bolted back toward her. I didn't care about the looming threat of muscle pain or my exhaustion. If Fiona and Iris were there, the people in the carriage would be fine. But Cecilia was fighting all alone. And... I’d come to really like her—even if she taught me how to fight while trying to pull off those idiotic seduction attempts.

I pushed myself to the limit to reach the battlefield, but the sight that met my eyes was unbelievable.

"Hahahaha! My blood is boiling! Monsters, try harder to hurt me!"

Cecilia was wearing a smile full of madness—something I could never have imagined from her usual self. Her silver armor was already drenched in blood, and her swordplay was no longer a display of skill, but a series of strikes fueled by pure instinct.

"Cecilia..."

An Orc’s club slammed into her side. It was a blow that would have made a normal person collapse in agony, but Cecilia just let out a distorted cry of joy. "Heh, not bad!" Even when a Wyvern’s breath hit her directly, she just shouted, "It’s hot! But so what!" She charged forward even as her body was scorched, without a hint of hesitation.

It was like her sense of pain was paralyzed... or rather, it looked like she was enjoying the pain itself.

She was like a completely different person... Could it be? Was Cecilia the Demon King? Was she using the Demon King’s power to blow off steam? The thought made my heart ache. But I didn't hesitate to grip the sword she’d given me and jump in to help.

"Dammit, what the hell is going on?!"

I used <Overdrive> to leap to her side and cleave through an Orc that was about to strike her.

"Kamiya-dono...?"

"Details later! Let’s just finish these guys off!"

My arrival caused Cecilia to pause for a moment, but the monsters weren't going to wait. Their numbers had dwindled significantly, but we weren't out of the woods yet.

I moved to support Cecilia, keeping a close eye on her. She was undeniably strong. The way she mowed down monsters with overwhelming power was truly worthy of the title 'Sword Saint.'

But why did she look like she was having the time of her life?

"Gob-gob!"

At that moment, a Goblin Shaman found an opening and fired magic at Cecilia’s back. But she didn't even seem to notice, focusing instead on burying her sword in another Orc.

"Look out!"

I instinctively used <Infinity Mana> to nullify the magic, shielding her back. In the process, something fell from a gap in her armor.

It was an old grimoire with an ominous binding. Seeing it... I felt like burying my face in my hands.

"Cecilia, we’re pulling back."

Once the momentum of the monsters had died down, I called out to her, and after a moment of hesitation, she followed me.

Luckily, the monsters didn't seem as persistent now that the carriage was gone, and they didn't pursue us.

"So, Cecilia... what was that back there? You were like a different person."

"Ah... I didn't really want you to see that. It’s a secret technique passed down in my knightly order called 'Ogre Soul.' It shuts down all pain receptors to focus entirely on offense. Of course, there are risks... but I knew you would definitely come back for me, Kamiya-dono..."

"Hmm. And you dropped this."

I showed her the grimoire I’d picked up, cutting through the heroic excuse she’d clearly prepared in advance.

"Wha— That’s... that’s not..."

Cecilia’s face turned bright red as she snatched the book back instantly. The title on the cover, written alongside some gibberish symbols, read: 'The Supreme Cursed Art: Turning Pain into Bliss.' Now that I thought about it, I’m pretty sure I saw that for sale in the same shop where she bought her erotica.

"I see... so while we were all worried sick, you were just out here enjoying a solo M-session..."

"T-that’s not it! I certainly wasn't fantasizing about being all alone in a desperate situation where I might be subjected to unspeakable acts if I lost!! And while this art does make me feel pleasure, the backlash of pain when it wears off is quite intense... well, that pain is also a bit of a habit... I mean, forget I said that!"

I couldn't help but chuckle at her tearful excuses. Rather than being annoyed, I was just so incredibly relieved that her 'power' wasn't the Demon King’s, but just her being a total pervert. And here I am, supposed to be finding the Demon King...

"If you want that kind of thing, just ask me. I’ll make sure you’re satisfied."

"Kamiya-dono... just how much do you care for me...?"

"Also, I was seriously worried, so let’s decide on a better plan for next time. It’s not good for my heart."

"Yes... you’re right. I’m sorry."

She looked dejected, but I had my own reflecting to do. I needed to get stronger.

Still, to think I broke into a cold sweat thinking she was the Demon King, only for it to be a weird kink session! ...Actually, I probably should have seen that coming.

★★★

"Gods... please let Lord Kamiya and, well, Cecilia-san, return to us safely."

"Kamiya is out there. He’ll definitely come back," Iris said firmly.

Having stepped off the carriage, Fiona and Iris stood watching the distant battlefield, their voices low with prayer. It was only natural for their eyes to be clouded with anxiety. No matter how powerful the Hero and the Sword Saint were, the exhaustion from constant, back-to-back battles was impossible to hide.

"If only I hadn't made such a selfish suggestion..." Fiona whispered, her head bowed.

"No one could have predicted this would happen. Besides, I know you’ve been holding back lately," Iris replied, her tone uncharacteristically soft. "That’s why Kamiya agreed to go into the temple in the first place. We're all in this together, so stop beating yourself up."

"Iris-sama... thank you."

Iris offered what comfort she could to the guilt-ridden Fiona. Though their party had initially been formed by royal decree, the hardships they had shared were forging a bond far more solid than duty alone.

"Um... Lady Saint, Lady Mage? Might I have a moment of your time?"

"Yes, what is it?" Fiona asked, turning back.

The beautiful woman from the carriage—who apparently went by the name Irene—approached the two of them with an apologetic expression.

"There is a reason those monsters were pursuing us so relentlessly. In truth, my village has guarded a powerful, sealed grimoire for generations... It’s possible the monsters sensed its power or were wary of the Hero’s approach."

"A grimoire, you say?" Iris’s eyes sharpened.

"If that’s true, it might make our journey ahead much easier," Fiona added.

Both of them had struggled during the recent skirmishes and were hungry for ways to grow stronger. If this book held the key to more powerful magic, it was exactly what they needed.

"Could you tell us more about it?" Iris pressed.

"Of course. You saved our lives. If our village's treasure can be of use to you all..."

Irene’s story drew them both in. They should have noticed, however—Iris’s obsession with magic was one thing, but for the normally hyper-vigilant Fiona to be so easily distracted in her state of distress... it was a lapse they might later regret.

By the time we made it back to the town, Fiona and Iris were deep in a serious discussion. Noticing Cecilia and me—both looking like we’d been dragged through a swamp—they rushed over with cries of "Welcome back!"

"Lord Kamiya! Cecilia-sama! I am so glad you’re safe. We were so worried," Fiona exclaimed, her hands clasped to her chest.

"Well, it’s you two, so I figured you’d be fine," Iris added, though her relief was palpable.

"Hehe, Iris-sama says that now, but she was praying right alongside me," Fiona teased.

"I told you not to mention that!! You black-hearted Saint!!" Iris barked, her face turning a vivid red.

Watching their usual bickering, I let out a breath of pure relief. This was the normalcy I needed.

"Forgive us, both of you. It seems we caused quite a bit of worry..." Cecilia bowed her head.

"You must be exhausted, Cecilia-san. We’ve already secured rooms at the inn, so you should rest. And your wounds are quite severe; allow me to heal them immediately."

"Ah, then I shall humbly accept your kindness..."

As Fiona tenderly escorted the awkward-looking Cecilia toward the inn, I couldn't help but smirk. Fiona probably had no idea that most of those wounds were the result of a 'turning pain into bliss' curse. Iris caught my expression and narrowed her eyes.

"What are you smirking at? Creep."

"Hey, I might be smirking, but it's not for anything 'creepy.'"

"Hmph, whatever... but more importantly..." Iris began to mutter under her breath.

"Huh? What was that?"

"I said, I’m glad you’re safe! I was worried, okay?!"

"Yeah, thanks. Knowing the two of you were there to handle the carriage made it easier to focus," I said, reaching out to pat her head.

Iris didn't pull away. Instead, she turned bright red and leaned into the touch. Her hair was soft, and a faint, sweet scent drifted from her. It was... nice.

"But the monsters are getting stronger the closer we get to the Demon King’s Castle... We’re going to have to be even more careful from here on out."

"About that—Irene, the woman from the carriage, told us something interesting," Iris said, her excitement returning. "Want to check it out? It’s an unknown grimoire. Sounds enticing, doesn't it?"

As Iris explained why Irene’s village had been attacked, my interest was piqued.

"True... it could be useful. And it’d be a nightmare if the Demon King’s lot got their hands on it."

"Exactly. Let’s head out once everyone’s stamina has recovered."

Iris gave me a sweet smile, but then a dark realization hit me.

"Oh man... the hellish muscle pain is coming, isn't it?"

"Fufu, apparently even Fiona’s magic can't fix that kind of soreness. If it gets too bad, I’ll nurse you back to health myself, so don't be shy about asking."

Driven by her excitement for the new grimoire, Iris was being uncharacteristically honest and 'dere.' Led by her, I made my way toward the inn, bracing for the morning.

"I can't believe it... even the muscle pain was mitigated? This is a total cheat."

The next morning, I cautiously tested my limbs, expecting them to creak like rusted hinges. Despite the extreme buff from Fiona’s magic and the brutal combat that followed, I felt only a faint stiffness. The 'hellish muscle pain' was nowhere to be found. In fact, my body felt more invigorated than yesterday, as if the struggle had actually forged me into something stronger.

<Overload>. The skill that granted me the 'optimal resistance' to any attack had apparently worked its magic on my internal recovery as well. It kept me in peak condition. I hadn't expected it to apply to physical fatigue and soreness, but I wasn't complaining.

When I headed down to the inn's dining hall, Fiona and Cecilia were already at a table. Their movements, however, were... strained. Fiona was trying to eat elegantly, but her face would occasionally twitch in a grimace. Cecilia was in a much worse—or perhaps better—state; every time she moved and let out a tiny gasp of pain, a look of pure ecstasy crossed her face. She was officially a lost cause.

"Good morning, Lord Kamiya. It seems... your muscle pain isn't an issue?"

Fiona set her fork down slowly and asked with a look of genuine concern. Not wanting her to feel guilty for the 'price' of her spell, I moved my arms in exaggerated circles.

"Yeah, I'm totally fine. Must be my skills."

Fiona’s eyes went wide, and Cecilia nearly dropped her fork.

"My... you truly are something else. I suppose my plan to nurse you back to health is foiled," Fiona noted with a wry smile.

"What?! You mean to say you received that entire buff and came away unscathed?! Truly, your constitution is terrifying, Kamiya-dono!"

I could only offer a sheepish grin. Honestly, I was just as surprised as they were.

"Well, as long as the Hero is safe, that is all that matters. Please, eat before it gets cold."

"Thanks."

As I started on the breakfast Fiona had recommended, Iris finally made her appearance, looking like she’d overslept.

"Late start for you, Iris. That’s rare," I noted.

"I had a lot on my mind, okay?"

Iris sat down next to me, acting strangely fidgety. It was a far cry from her usual sharp-tongued self. It was actually kind of cute.

"H-hey, Kamiya. If you’re so full of energy, would you... maybe... come with me to pick up some supplies? Those two are clearly out of commission with their muscle pain, and I’ve got too much to carry on my own."

"That’s cheating, Iris-sama!" Fiona tried to bolt upright, but her forced bravado hit its limit. She let out a pained groan and sank back into her chair, sweating. "Taking advantage of our injuries to... I should be... guh..."

I see... I thought. The girl who’s usually all prickles is honestly asking for a date. Is this that 'gap moe' I read about in those light novels?

"I-it’s not a date! Don't get the wrong idea!"

"Gwaaaah... such damage... and yet, it feels so good..."

Iris had meant to give Cecilia a playful swat for her comment, but against Cecilia’s current level of muscle soreness, it was a critical hit. The knight writhed in a mix of agony and bliss.

"Anyway! It’s not a date! It’s just supply shopping! So just come with me, got it?!"

"Yeah, yeah. Total tsundere."

"I don't know what that word means, but you're making fun of me, aren't you?"

"Not at all. I'm looking forward to it."

Leaving behind a jealous Fiona and an ecstatically suffering Cecilia, we headed out into the town.

It wasn't that I was getting all hyped up over a 'date.' It was just that I rarely got the chance to be alone with Iris. This was the perfect opportunity to observe her.

Seriously. I mean it.

Once in the streets, Iris led the way. "Business first," she claimed, as we hit up several herb shops and material wholesalers.

"This herb is effective against the venom of the monsters in this region. This specific type is rare, so we need to stock up while we can. I can't leave everything to Fiona, after all."

"Wow, you really know your stuff."

"Of course I do! I’m a mage; knowledge of materials is a basic requirement. Plus, these can be used as catalysts, so I'm buying in bulk."

Watching her work was a reminder that she really was a genius. She negotiated skillfully with the shopkeepers and scrutinized the goods with a professional eye, her usual abrasive attitude replaced by genuine focus.

"You know, you’re surprisingly reliable, Iris."

The words slipped out before I could stop them. Iris froze mid-motion and fixed me with a flat stare.

"What’s that supposed to mean? Did you think I was just some magic-obsessed airhead?"

She puffed out her cheeks in annoyance, and I couldn't help but laugh.

"No, that’s not it. I was just... impressed by how well you handle things."

"Hmph. Praising me won't get you anything, you know."

Iris turned away, clearly struggling to hide a bashful grin. It was adorable. If I weren't constantly suspecting her of being the Demon King, I might have hugged her right then and there.

Once the shopping was mostly done, Iris tugged hesitantly on my sleeve. The gesture was like a shy kitten seeking attention.

"Hey, Kamiya... if you don't mind, could you come with me to one more place?"

"Sure. Something else we need?"

"I-it’s not a 'need' exactly... but I saw a Magic Item Shop earlier that looked interesting. But it’s kind of... hard to go in alone. I thought it’d be easier if you were with me..."

"A personal shopping trip? Sounds even more like a date."

"...That’s what I’ve been trying to say."

Iris spoke so softly, her head bowed, that my heart actually skipped a beat. Her ears were as red as a boiled lobster. I probably didn't look much better.

Even without the 'investigating the Demon King' excuse, there was no way I was turning down an invitation this cute. Besides, a magic shop might have some clue about the Demon King’s whereabouts... Yeah, that was definitely just an excuse. My heart was pounding because I was on a date with Iris.

"I’d be happy to."

"Then let’s go!"

Iris looked up, her face lit with a brilliant smile. She grabbed my hand tightly and started leading the way. The warmth from her small hand made my chest tighten again.

She led me to a magic shop with glitzy decorations—the kind of place that practically screamed 'high-end.' A barrier shimmered at the entrance, and stepping through it, I felt the unique swirl of concentrated mana.

"Whoa... the last shop was impressive, but this is on another level."

"It’s not quite as grand as the Magic City, but this is the Demon King’s Territory. You can't stand against the monsters here without powerful items, so the industry has flourished."

It was the same logic as a town near the final boss in a video game selling top-tier gear.

"I guess that makes sense... but if a whole army of those things came at once, could even these items protect the town?"

"True. That’s why the town is protected by a massive barrier that only allows authorized people in. We got in easily because we were being chased and you're the Hero, but normally the paperwork is a nightmare."

Which means the Demon King hiding among us also got permission to enter...

As a wave of guilt washed over me, Iris pulled on my sleeve again.

"Why the long face? We're shopping! Enjoy yourself."

"Yeah, you're right."

The store was packed with items that radiated enough mana for even me to notice. Ornate staves, glowing orbs, pendants etched with complex runes... they all looked high-spec. But more than that, for someone like me who loved this kind of stuff, it was a dreamland.

"This stave here is made from a devil’s bone. It boosts dark-elemental magic."

"Oh, cool. The dark-elemental thing really adds to the aesthetic. What about this pendant?"

"That one uses a gemstone blessed by spirits. It grants resistance to status ailments... though I doubt you have any use for it."

Iris seemed to enjoy explaining each item to me as I asked question after question with sparkling eyes.

"It’s amazing how much the effect changes depending on the materials and the enchantments used."

Iris puffed out her chest proudly at my awe.

"Exactly! That’s what makes it so fun. That’s why whenever I see a new magic tool, I just want to buy it and start experimenting."

"I get that. It sounds like fun just hearing about it."

In games, I used to love alchemy—mixing items to see what happened or buying new gear just to see the stats. I knew exactly how she felt.

"Right?! I’ve always loved figuring out how things work. Ever since I was little, I’ve spent my time trying to unravel the secrets of new spells and items..."

Iris trailed off, a shadow of loneliness crossing her face.

"But... no matter how hard I worked, the nobles and the high-ranking mages... they never took me seriously. Just because I was a commoner. I wasn't even allowed to attend the Magic Academy."

Hearing her words made my heart ache. Despite her genius, she had been treated unfairly simply because of her birth. It reminded me of the irrational situations I’d faced in my previous life—though in my case, it was just a massive complex because of my handsome, popular older brother...

Oh, I see... I realized. I thought she was just naturally reliable, but it’s because she HAD to be reliable. She was in a situation where she couldn't even pursue her research without doing everything herself.

"I... I had no idea."

"Yeah. So I had no choice but to bury myself in research all alone. Even if no one recognized me, I loved magic... I loved pursuing the truth. But Kamiya... you, and everyone else, you tell me I'm amazing. You encourage me to keep trying even when I fail. That makes me so... so happy."

Iris looked up at me, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. The vulnerability she was showing, along with her pure trust and affection, hit me like a physical force.

"Iris..."

I reached out naturally, placing a hand on her head and stroking her hair. It was as smooth as silk, and the sensation was strangely calming.

"You are an amazing mage. No matter what anyone says, that’ll never change. I guarantee it. I’m glad you’re in our party."

My words seemed to go straight to her heart. Iris leaned into me, wrapping her arms around my waist. Her small, slender frame was trembling slightly.

"Kamiya... thank you... thank you so much."

Her warmth felt so real in my arms. That warmth began to melt away the suspicions I held about her being the Demon King. Even if... even if she was the Demon King, I wanted to believe this pure emotion wasn't a lie.

"Excuse me... if you're going to do that, I’d appreciate it if you took it elsewhere..."

"Whoa!"

"Eeeeek!"

The shopkeeper—a man in robes who had appeared out of nowhere—gave us a wry smirk. We scrambled apart in an instant.

As we left the shop and I prepared to head back to the inn, Iris grabbed my hem again.

"Hey, Kamiya... do you like sweets? There’s just one more place I want to go..."

She led me to a sweet shop that was apparently famous in this town. Iris’s eyes lit up again as she looked at the colorful cakes in the display case.

"What are you getting, Kamiya? I'm having the seasonal fruit tart!"

"I’ll go with... the chocolate cake, I think. Looks delicious."

Sitting over our cakes and tea, Iris let out a happy cry of "So good!" with every bite. Seeing her look so genuinely blissful made me feel warm inside.

"Sweets really are the best medicine..."

"Right? I brought you here, so you better be grateful."

"Yeah, yeah. Thank you, Iris-sama. You’re very thoughtful."

"Why did that sound so rehearsed?!"

As Iris returned to her usual 'tsun' self, I couldn't help but smile. Even in another world, sugar was a balm for the soul.

We finished our treats and left the shop. The sunset was painting the town in soft, orange hues, making Iris’s hair shimmer beautifully.

"Hey, Kamiya."

Iris stopped and looked up at me. Her eyes held a deep, thoughtful light, different from earlier in the day.

"You’ve been worrying about something lately, haven't you? Did this help clear your head a bit?"

"Huh...?"

I was stunned. She’d noticed that I was carrying a burden of anxiety. This whole date... she’d planned it just for me.

"I... I might not be the most reliable person, but you can talk to me, you know?"

It was an incredibly tempting offer. Unlike when we first met, I knew these girls now. I considered them friends. Suspecting the three of them all by myself was, frankly, exhausting.

"Thanks. I'm okay. Thanks to you, I feel a lot better."

"Hey... you're messing up my hair."

I patted her head again, full of gratitude. But I didn't tell her the truth. There was still a chance Iris was the Demon King. But at the same time, because she had just called us her precious comrades, I didn't want her to have to suffer the same pain I was feeling.

After Cecilia and Fiona’s hellish muscle aches finally subsided, we decided to head for the village where Irene supposedly lived. To be honest, I still hadn’t figured out who the Demon Lord was. The possibility of a trap—much like what happened with Fiona—crossed my mind, but I had no decisive evidence. And at this point, I really didn’t want any of them to be the Demon Lord.

When we finally reached the village, it was nothing but a grizzly ruin. It had been decimated by a monster raid; houses were burnt to the ground, corpses lay scattered everywhere, and an eerie silence dominated the area.

"How could someone do something so horrible...?" Fiona whispered, covering her face. Her eyes were filled with pain, likely at the sight of a mother slumped over her child in a final, desperate attempt to save them.

"The warriors fought well, however. I swear upon my honor that I shall avenge them," Cecilia said, her fists trembling as she glared at the ground. Her expression wasn't that of a stoic knight, but of a human being filled with genuine grief.

"All this... just for a grimoire?" Iris muttered in a shaky voice, wiping her eyes. Seeing a glimpse of the vulnerability behind her usual bravado made my chest tighten.

"Once we recover the grimoire, let's build them a proper grave."

Watching the three of them so genuinely distraught, my suspicions that one of them might be the Demon Lord vanished—at least for this moment. Their sorrow felt entirely real.

However, as we walked through the ruins, I noticed something strange. Amidst the charred remains of houses and overturned carriages, there weren't just human bodies. There were carcasses of goblins and orcs as well. And strangely, they looked as if they had slaughtered each other in a frantic civil war.

"That's weird... There are way too many monster corpses for a simple raid..." I muttered.

The three of them looked at each other for a second.

"Perhaps the village's self-defense force fought back with everything they had?" Fiona suggested.

"This is a remote area; maybe there was an exceptionally skilled warrior or mage living here?" Iris added.

Cecilia was the only one to disagree. "No... I doubt this carnage was the work of mere villagers."

As a knight, she could likely tell the difference between the strength of the fallen and the monsters we’d fought yesterday. Besides, if there were people capable of taking down this many monsters, I’m sure Irene-san would have mentioned them.

Pushing my doubts aside, we reached the back of the village where the cave containing the grimoire was located. The entrance was blocked by a massive boulder—likely to protect the seal—but Iris stepped forward with a confident "Leave it to me!" and blew the rock to pieces with her magic.

"Feels like something’s gonna jump out at us..."

The interior of the cave was chilly and dim. It didn't seem as deep as a full-blown dungeon, but it felt sinister nonetheless.

"Indeed. It’s quite frightening... Lord Kamiya, will you protect me?"

"A Saint shouldn't be afraid of ghosts..."

Fiona clung to my arm with a cute little squeak, prompting Iris to give her a flat, judging stare while Cecilia chuckled dryly. The familiar banter dispelled the heavy atmosphere from earlier. Maybe Fiona was acting silly on purpose. Still... whereas before my <Perfect Rejection> skill would have made me feel nothing, my heart was actually racing now. Damn it, without that skill, I’m way too weak to temptation...

Eventually, we reached a wide chamber at the back. Complex magic circles covered the walls, and at the center stood an ancient stone monument with a single grimoire resting atop it.

"This mana... This has to be a powerful grimoire!"

"Hey, Iris, don't just rush in!"

Ignoring my warning, Iris ran up to it, her eyes sparkling with a pure, scholarly excitement that was a complete 180 from her earlier sadness. But the moment her fingers brushed the book, the magic circles began to glow with an ominous light, and a thick black mist erupted from the monument.

"Wh-What a ghastly amount of mana..."

"Is this... no ordinary grimoire? Is Lady Iris alright...?"

"Iris, it might be a trap! Get away from there!"

She didn't seem to hear us. She stood there clutching the book, muttering under her breath.

"Hehe... Incredible... This is it... The magic circle of the 'Dominator’s Word,' said to have been used by the Demon Lord of old!"

Iris began deciphering the script on the pages. With every word she read, the malevolent mana intensified. Yet, even in the face of such a wicked formula, her face was alight with joy.

"The 'Dominator’s Word'... That is a forbidden curse used by the Demon Lord from two generations ago!" Fiona cried out, her voice bordering on a scream. "If the incantation goes out of control, everyone nearby could be turned into mindless puppets! The previous Demon Lord nearly destroyed an entire nation with it!"

"Iris! Seriously, are you okay!?"

This was getting dangerous. But Iris was deaf to Fiona’s warnings and my concern.

"Just wait... If I modify this formula, I could use it to dominate our enemies instead! The rest of our battles would be a breeze. We could even make the Four Heavenly Kings submit. And if I tweak this part here..."

Ignoring me entirely, Iris began rewriting the magic circle’s formula. The mana flowing from her fingertips was no longer the warmth she’d shown before; it was a cold, piercing light.

She can use a Demon Lord’s forbidden curse... and even modify it?

Don't tell me... Iris is the Demon Lord?

A cold shiver ran down my spine. Was that grieving face in the village just an act? And the weirdness of the corpses... if she had used this curse beforehand to manipulate the monsters into attacking the village, and then forced them to kill each other once they were no longer useful... it all fit. And now, was she rewriting the spell to enslave us?

I felt an indefinable terror as I watched her happily rewrite the forbidden curse.

"Iris, stop! I don't want to..."

I don't want to fight you... Just as I thought that, I ignored the malevolent mana and placed a hand on her shoulder. At that exact moment, the half-rewritten formula flared with a blinding, wicked light. A black vortex swallowed Iris.

"What is happening!? Lady Fiona, explain!"

"Modifying an unfamiliar spell is a delicate task! Lord Kamiya touched her right when she needed to focus! Her concentration must have snapped!"

"Iris!! Are you okay!?"

I called out desperately, but there was no answer.

When the light finally died down, the Iris standing there was a far cry from her usual prickly self. Her face was flushed, her eyes were hazy and melting, and she was looking up at me with a dreamy expression.

Ah. I think I’ve seen this pattern before...

"Master... ♡"

Iris let out a sweet, melting giggle. My heart nearly leaped out of my chest. My <Perfect Rejection> skill was remaining stubbornly silent.

"You're always playing with everyone else... I was so lonely, nyan..."

"Uooooooh!!"

Iris snuggled up to me like a kitten, rubbing her cheek against mine. The ticklish sensation and the sheer gap from her usual personality made my heart skip a beat.

"I want you to rely on me more, nyan... I want Master to dote on me, nyan..."

This was a full-blown 'deredere' mode that I could never have imagined from her. I knew this was bad, but internally, I was panicking because of how cute she was. This was way too much for a virgin's heart to handle.

I looked to Fiona and Cecilia for help, but they were just staring in shock.

"To think... Lady Iris could become like that...!?"

"Most likely, the backfire of the curse placed an unintended command on her. Or rather, isn't she touching Lord Kamiya a bit too much? I should probably hit her with my staff to cure her, right?"

As Cecilia stood confused and Fiona gripped her staff with eyes full of jealousy, Iris leaned in even closer, looking up at me with moist, upturned eyes.

"You're looking at the other women again... Hey, Master... what do you think of me, nyan?"

"A-Iris... well..."

She was usually so prickly. But I knew the truth. My <Perfect Rejection> had failed to work on her from the very beginning. And after that, she’d always subtly supported me, even worrying about me during our date...

As I struggled for words, the dazed light suddenly vanished from Iris's eyes, and her usual cool expression returned.

"Wh...!?"

Realizing she was currently clinging to me, her face turned bright red and she scrambled backward.

"Wh-wh-wh-wh-WHAT IS THISSSSS!? Did I... did I do something that embarrassing again!?"

Iris's scream echoed through the cave. Her sense of shame had clearly exploded, and her eyes were brimming with tears.

"It seems the magic was indeed messing with her... Now that she's back to her senses, she probably wants to die of embarrassment," Fiona noted.

"I see... though that kind of humiliation wasn't half bad to watch," Cecilia added.

"Ugh..." Iris groaned.

She glared back and forth between the forbidden curse and me with a look of pure resentment.

"Hey, Iris... about before..."

"It was the truth, okay!? So what!?" she barked. "I didn't mean to say all that in front of everyone... but the curse went haywire because you talked to me...!"

"...Lord Kamiya, I'll leave it to you to follow up with Lady Iris. Fortunately, there are no monsters here, so we shall keep watch on the perimeter."

"Indeed... once you get used to the shame, it is quite pleasant."

Fiona left while reading the room; Cecilia left after saying something completely unnecessary.

That left just Iris and me. Wait, what am I supposed to do?

"Iris... uh... sorry for making you feel lonely. But I really thought I was being friendly with you..."

God, why am I talking like a boyfriend caught cheating again? Even though this girl might be the Demon Lord...

"Ugh... it's not that... I'm just not as honest as the others... I was worried you didn't trust me. Like the other day, you wouldn't tell me what was bothering you, right?"

So my refusal to consult her about the Demon Lord situation had made her feel cornered...

I reached out and gently patted her head.

"You were really worried about a lot of things, huh? But I know your sharp tongue is just because you're not honest, and I know you're actually really kind, so don't worry. As for the other thing... I do plan on telling you once I’ve got my thoughts in order. So please, don't be so anxious. I mean... I consider you a precious comrade."

Iris looked up, her eyes shimmering. The shame from before was still there, but a small spark of relief had joined it.

"Kamiya... thanks."

"I should be the one saying that. Sorry for worrying you, and thanks for thinking of me."

"But... I don't want to be just a precious comrade. You saw it earlier, didn't you? I love you."

"Wha—"

For a fleeting second, her lips pressed against mine. Iris gave a playful giggle and pulled away before the others could return. While I was still reeling from the moment, the party regrouped, and we built a grave for the villagers who had perished.

My search for the Demon Lord wasn't progressing at all, but the bonds with my comrades were deepening bit by bit. At this point, I really didn't want any of them to be the Demon Lord.

"Ufufu, I'm glad you two made up... nyan ♡"

"Ughhhhhh!"

"Calm yourself, Lady Iris. And Lady Fiona, pray do not tease her so. Kamiya-dono... why are you smiling so happily?"

"Oh, you know, I was just thinking it's nice that everyone’s getting along..."

As we walked back toward the city, Fiona wasted no time in teasing Iris. One of these girls might be the Demon Lord. But even if she is, maybe she’s starting to open her heart to us just a little bit? Such naive thoughts crossed my mind.

"I sense something ominous..."

The warm atmosphere vanished instantly at Fiona’s words.

"You’re right... the guards aren't at their posts either. What is this...?"

Feeling a surge of dread, we entered the city. The townspeople were all gathered around a single woman, their expressions dazed and ecstatic.

I recognized this sight.

"Isn't this... a Succubus’s charm? There should be a barrier in place, so how...?"

It was no wonder Iris was shocked. Throughout the streets, the charmed citizens were simply grinning foolishly, as if trapped in a pleasant dream.

"To do this to non-combatants... as a knight, I cannot forgive this!"

"But who let a monster into the city? They shouldn't be able to enter without permission."

Could it be the Demon Lord...? But none of my companions had been acting alone in the city over the last few days. Fiona and Cecilia had been dying of muscle aches back at the inn, and Iris had been on a date with me. After that, we’d all stayed at the inn together before heading to the village.

As my mind raced, the townspeople parted like the Red Sea, and the woman they had been surrounding stepped forward, wearing a particularly voluptuous smile.

"You've finally returned, Hero and his party. Sadly, this city now belongs to me."

The sweet scent wafting from her was unmistakable. I recognized that face.

"Irene-san... you were a succubus?"

"A succubus? Ufufu, not quite. I am one of the Four Heavenly Kings, the Succubus Queen. The sovereign who rules over all succubi. This place is now my kingdom. Don't think you're leaving here alive."

"Lady Irene!! Give us your command!"

"We will do anything for your sake!!"

She gave a sultry smirk at my words. Behind her, the charmed citizens basked in her sweet whispers, watching her with fanatical eyes.

Now I knew who had broken the barrier.

"Don't tell me... this was all set up from the moment we met on the carriage!?"

"Correct. We knew you entered the Demon Lord's territory after your fierce battle with Belial, so I set the trap immediately. Honestly, I had a much more certain way of gathering information, but for some reason, it didn't work."

For a split second, I thought Irene glared at me with reproach, but it might have been my imagination. She quickly returned to her seductive smile, her eyes full of mocking coldness.

"Still, it must be hard being a Hero. You have to protect all these irrelevant people, don't you? How was it? The monsters I lured you with—monsters who didn't care if they died as long as they could be seduced by me—they were tough, weren't they? Don't you think humans would be even tougher opponents?"

"Shut up. More importantly, are the townspeople safe?"

"Of course. They're precious hostages to use against you—and my dinner. Did you know? As a Queen, I can drain energy from women as well. It might be fun to seduce your companions right in front of you."

Irene licked her lips provocatively, causing Fiona and Iris to grimace in frustration.

"We were careless... it was your power that lured us to that village..."

"Ugh... to use a grimoire as bait... how cowardly!"

"Yes, and seeing a Saint believe it so easily made it hard to stop laughing."

"True," Cecilia added. "I expected it from a magic-obsessed fool like Lady Iris, but I thought the black-heart... I mean, the discreet Lady Fiona would have been more skeptical. It seems we were all under your spell."

"Lady Cecilia... we will have a talk later," Fiona said with a sharp glare that made Cecilia flinch.

"You didn't just target us, you dragged the townspeople into this! I won't forgive you!"

I signaled the others to enter combat mode and reached for my sword, but Irene stopped me with a single finger.

"Ufufu, such spirit. But you’d best not resist. Every person in this city is under my thrall. If you make a single wrong move... well, you can imagine what will happen to them, can't you?"

Irene raised an index finger and gave a radiant smile. At that moment, the charmed citizens began dancing a bizarre, synchronized dance. They looked exactly like puppets on strings.

There were way too many hostages.

"Now, don't be so stiff. If you're going to be seduced anyway, it's better to just enjoy it, don't you think, Hero-sama?"

With those words, Irene swayed her hips seductively and traced her own lips with her finger. She sent a provocative blowing kiss my way. A sweet, cloying miasma surged toward me, attempting to shake my consciousness directly.

Dammit, I knew she’d try a charm! This was on a completely different level from a normal succubus.

However, my <Perfect Rejection> skill shut the temptation out completely. While a chill ran through my body, my expression didn't change at all. I stared back at Irene with a cool face, as if she’d done nothing more than blow a light breeze my way.

"Is that it? Is that all a Succubus Queen’s charm can do? Those people must be incredibly simple-minded if they lost their senses to something that weak."

"Heh... You resisted that? Impressive. Usually, a single hit like that is enough to make a man crawl to my knees and offer me his soul."

"What are you even saying?" Fiona interrupted. "If Lord Kamiya were the type to be seduced by something like that, we wouldn't be having such a hard time!"

"Exactly!" Cecilia added. "Even I... I have done such things to him, and yet he remained unswayed... ah, but that humiliation has now become a pleasure... ufufu."

"You might be a Queen, but there's no way Kamiya would be charmed by the likes of you," Iris finished.

For some reason, Fiona and Iris were looking at me accusingly, while Cecilia was visibly trembling.

Irene quickly regained her composure and curled the corner of her lip into a smirk.

"I see... my seduction doesn't seem to work on you. But what about your friends?"

Irene spoke with mockery and tossed her robe aside. In the next instant, the fabric fell soundlessly to the ground, revealing her perfectly naked body.

Her bountiful breasts swayed, and her supple limbs glowed with a bewitching light. The townspeople went into an even greater frenzy at the sight of their master’s nudity, some of them even collapsing from nosebleeds.

And my companions were not immune. Fiona’s barrier, which had been blocking the charm until now, began to falter as they let out small cries.

"Fufufu, sorry... we monsters aren't exactly patient."

Irene’s eyes flashed with a cold light for a moment. Her gaze was directed at one of my three companions, but from where I stood, I couldn't tell which one.

"Ugh... how beautiful... no, I am the more beautiful one... and yet, she is also beautiful..." Fiona stammered.

"Kuuh... to think I would want to be mocked by someone other than Kamiya-dono..." Cecilia moaned.

"What is this... does having a big chest really make you that attractive!? Ugh... I hate it, but I can't look away!" Iris cried.

Fiona and Cecilia were flushed red and trying to look away; Iris was trembling with a mix of shame and anger. I, too, found it hard to keep my eyes off such a bold display.

"Your friends... it seems they've already been charmed by me. If you want to save them, you'd better obey. Now... pull out your 'sword', Hero-sama."

"Even Fiona... and the other two..."

At this rate, I wouldn't be able to find an opening to save the hostages. Furthermore, the sheer sex appeal Irene was projecting at me felt like it was surpassing the level my skill could handle. While my mind remained calm, it felt as though the raw pleasure was being hammered directly into my brain through my very pores. My rationality was wavering, and my 'sword' was definitely waking up.

My mind is calm, but only my crotch is being charmed!?

"My, my, Hero-sama, you've gotten so hard... Throw away that dangerous sword and let's do something that feels much better."

Irene took another step toward me. Her sweet scent tickled my nose. I could resist... but if I did, I didn't know what would happen to my friends. If that was the case... I would have to stay 'charmed' while unleashing everything I had to take her down.

"Now, kneel before me. And offer everything you have to me..."

She reached out, her fingertips inches away from stroking my crotch. Just as I drew a deep breath and prepared to swing my sword with the last of my sanity—

"I'm the one who's going to do lewd things to Kamiya!! I'm not letting someone like you have him!! <I am the one who rules all; with these words, nullify the charm that defiles our comrades>!!"

Iris deployed a magic circle—a modified version of the 'Dominator’s Word' she had accidentally triggered earlier. In an instant, Fiona and Cecilia, who had been writhing in pain while resisting the Queen’s temptation, regained their senses.

"What... you overwrote my charm!?"

"Thank you, Lady Iris. Now I can fight too. For a mere succubus to touch Lord Kamiya’s sacred body is an act of extreme irreverence. <O Divine Miracle, purify the temptation of the unclean>!"

Fiona raised her staff, and a purifying light enveloped the entire city, healing the charmed citizens one by one.

"Don't get any closer to Kamiya-dono. His 'sword'... exists only to punish me!"

With a flash of silver, Cecilia swung her blade, forcing the Succubus Queen to take a step back in frustration.

"Everyone!! Are you back to normal?"

"Yeah, thanks to a certain pervert who almost got seduced by a random succubus," Iris barked.

Was that a "Goku going Super Saiyan after Krillin's death" kind of power-up? At Iris’s words, the other two also gave me flat, judging stares. Hey, what was I supposed to do? I was desperate because everyone was being held hostage!

I felt like their anger was directed less at the townspeople being used and more at something else entirely. Feeling conflicted, I tucked my 'sword' away and brandished my actual blade.

"To think... your love actually surpassed my temptation!? That should be impossible!! Regardless, you’ve interfered for the last time..."

"I will not let you escape after you’ve seduced the people and put them in danger! You shall be nothing more than rust upon my blade!"

Cecilia’s silver sword danced, obstructing Irene as she spread her wings to flee. Cecilia was truly magnificent; her rage as a knight for the citizens being involved was palpable. Or so I thought, until—

"And... the sword in Kamiya-dono’s trousers is for my punishment! It is not something you may lightly touch!"

"Don't you all have Succubus brain rot or something!? Please stop talking so passionately about my crotch! <Holy Sword, to my hand>!"

I couldn't help but yell back as I summoned the Holy Sword's power into my blade. I swung with everything I had. The light-clad sword slashed through her chest, spraying purple blood as she groaned and fell back.

"Urgh... For I, the Queen of Succubi... to be bested by such inferior fodder..."

Irene’s eyes glowed ominously, and I felt a presence behind me. A group of people was rushing at us with terrifying speed. I recognized them—the merchant from the carriage and his family. They had been with Irene the longest, and their affection for her likely made the charm even stronger.

"Kamiya-dono!! Leave them to me!"

"You're not getting away!"

While Cecilia held them back, I took aim at Irene as she tried to fly into the air. I threw my sword, now fully transformed into the Holy Sword. It pierced her back, and she tumbled toward the ground.

"Don't lump me in with low-level succubi whose only talent is seduction. <O Shadow, protect my form>!"

Irene’s shadow rose up, becoming a barrier that deflected the Holy Sword even as the shadow itself shattered. She tried to take flight again in the opening, but Fiona—who had closed the distance without anyone noticing—pierced her back with her light-infused staff.

"Did you really think you could escape after trying to seduce Lord Kamiya!?"

"Urgh...! This woman... such terrifying jealousy... Gyaaaaaa!!"

Irene screamed in agony as Fiona channeled even more holy power into her to deliver the finishing blow.

As I ran over to support her, I saw Irene’s resistance fading from her wounds. But at the very end, she smirked and whispered something to Fiona.

"..."

She gave a creepy, wide grin just as her body dissolved into holy mist. Fiona stood there, eyes wide with shock, staring at the spot where Irene had turned to dust.

"Fiona, are you okay? What did she say at the end?"

I was relieved she was safe, but I wanted the details. She turned toward me with a start.

"More importantly... we have something far more critical to attend to right now, don't we, Hero-sama?"

"Yeah, the treatment for the townspeople, right? A lot of them were caught up in it..."

They had been charmed by a Succubus Queen. Their bodies might be fine, but the mental strain must be huge.

"No... while that is important, there is the matter of your lecture, Lord Kamiya."

With that, Fiona grabbed my arm. Before I could ask what was going on, she was glaring at me while pouting her lips cutely.

"Wait, why are you so mad? Did I do something?"

I looked to Cecilia and Iris for help, but they moved to block my path. All three of them seemed to be staring intently at my crotch...

"Despite not moving an inch when we were desperately trying to seduce you... you had no control over yourself just now. Doesn't such a fickle crotch require punishment? Everyone, let us cooperate for this one time."

"Agreed," Iris said. "This pervert Hero almost fell for some random succubus who just showed up... we have no choice but to overwrite it with our love."

"Indeed. We shall protect the Hero-dono’s chastity with our lives. To that end, we must completely pave over that wicked succubus’s temptation with our own pure feelings."

The three of them slowly closed in on me. What is this pressure!? This is way scarier than the Succubus Queen!!

"Wait, hold on! What are you planning!? And we have to help the townspeople!"

"Of course, we won't do anything now. However... be prepared for tonight."

Fiona’s eyes weren't smiling at all. Between her and the other two, I felt a strange mix of excitement and absolute dread for the night to come.

After repelling the Succubus Queen, we spent our time helping treat the charmed citizens and repairing the damaged buildings. Fortunately, thanks to Fiona’s purifying light, the confused people quickly regained their senses. With no major casualties, they welcomed us as heroes with cheers and jubilation.

As thanks for resolving the crisis, they provided us with a VIP room in the most luxurious inn in the city. It was complete with fluffy beds, lavish furniture, and even a massive bathroom. It was probably intended for high-ranking nobles.

"Phew, finally some rest... though I'm scared for what comes next..."

Having finished the day's work, I sighed in relief and sprawled out on the bed in just my underwear. But my heart wouldn't settle. The jealous faces of the three girls wouldn't leave my mind.

"Hero-sama, you must be tired. Why don't we take a bath together?"

"Hieee!"

Fiona's voice drifted from the bathroom. She sounded like she was already in the tub, her voice uncharacteristically sweet and clingy.

"Why are you in my room's bath? I’m sure I locked the door."

This was bad... honestly, maybe because of the stimulation from the Succubus Queen’s charm, my crotch was still a bit sensitive.

I tried to make a run for it, but the bathroom door opened and Fiona emerged, draped in steam. Her wet hair clung seductively to her skin, and her Saint's bathrobe was... well, it was so disheveled it was basically just a thin, damp rag. It was so erotic I couldn't look away.

To make matters worse, Iris and Cecilia appeared behind her. Fiona wasn't the only one who’d snuck in. And the two of them weren't even wearing robes; their skin was wet and shimmering from the bathroom steam.

"Wha—you guys, I can see... your chests and stuff!"

"I know. I'm showing you on purpose," Iris snapped.

"Fufu. Kamiya-dono’s lecherous gaze... it isn't bad. In fact, I like it," Cecilia added.

"Ufufu, Lord Kamiya... we had a discussion. We decided that we cannot allow your seduction by the Succubus Queen’s nudity to stand. Therefore, we shall overwrite it."

Fiona glared at me with half-lidded eyes before letting her robe slip to the floor. Even though the situation was incredibly spicy, her eyes weren't smiling, and I felt a strange pressure.

"Exactly. My pride won't allow Kamiya to be defiled by such a vulgar monster," Iris pouted, grabbing my right arm and pulling it toward her. Since she was naked, she made no effort to hide her chest. I felt a modest but soft sensation against my arm.

"We intend to protect Kamiya-dono’s chastity even at the cost of our lives... that said, if you desire it, I shall not complain no matter what you do to me. Thus, I offer my body to completely overwrite that loathsome temptation."

Cecilia smiled with anticipation as she grabbed my left arm. A sensation far more bountiful than Iris’s—and slightly more muscular—hit me.

"Wait, wait a minute! What are you thinking? That was just a physiological reaction—"

I tried to shake them off, but Fiona’s hand glowed, and a buff enveloped Iris and Cecilia, making them immovable. She really just used a Divine Miracle for this!? Talk about a waste of holy power!

"What are we thinking? It’s simple. Tonight, we shall charm the Hero-sama’s body and soul ourselves. So that no other woman ever enters your sight again."

"Yeah. The stain of almost having your 'thing' touched by that succubus... we’re going to wash it away with our love."

"Prepare yourself, Kamiya-dono. Tonight, we shall show you our true resolve with our very bodies."

Oh, this is bad. This was a total 'out' situation. Not only was <Perfect Rejection> not working, but my heart was pounding like crazy. A sincere approach born from genuine love hits me right in the soul.

One of these girls is the Demon Lord!! I tried to tell myself, but as a virgin, I didn't know how long I could resist...

"Wait... I'm really in a bad spot right now... at least let me take off my own underwear!!"

My scream was swallowed by the thick bathroom door.

The bathroom was filled with the scent of soap and steam, surrounded by three beautiful naked women. My heart was ringing alarm bells, screaming about the crisis my virginity was facing.

The three before me weren't the reliable party members I knew; though they were exposing their beautiful bodies, they had the eyes of hunters stalking their prey.

"Now, Lord Kamiya, come over here."

Fiona took my hand gently but firmly and sat me down on the edge of the tub. Her eyes didn't hold the usual Saint's compassion, but a bewitching heat. Just her wet fingertips touching my shoulder made it feel like an electric shock was running through my body.

"First, I shall cleanse your body for you."

"Wha—"

Fiona began lathering a generous amount of soap onto her large breasts. Seeing the fine white foam cover her bountiful chest—only to make me imagine what was underneath even more vividly—made my crotch feel like it was going to burst. This was bad...

"Fufu, you can look all you want, Lord Kamiya. You are the only one allowed to see the naked body of this Saint."

I tried to look away, but Fiona’s warm hand gently stroked my back, and her soap-slicked, heavy breasts were pressed against me. The slippery foam slid over my skin, sending shivers up my spine. My blood felt like it was about to boil.

"That’s unfair, Fiona! Cleansing Kamiya-dono is a task for a knight as well!"

Cecilia spoke up dissatisfactorily and approached. Her chest was also covered in foam. She moved behind me and pressed that same soft sensation against my back.

"Wait, you two... oh!?"

"How is it, Kamiya-dono...? My breasts, which grew so large despite me being a knight... ah, they’re hitting Kamiya-dono’s sensitive spots..."

It was an 'Oppai Sandwich.'

I let out an involuntary gasp at the sensation of Cecilia’s breasts, which were every bit as impressive as Fiona’s. Cecilia let out an excited moan of her own, which only stimulated my crotch further.

"I guess you really do like big breasts, huh?"

Iris’s voice sounded a bit sulky as she stimulated me in a different way. Just as a cool sensation hit me, Iris’s slender fingers wrapped around my swelling.

"Wait, Iris!? What are you... Seriously, this is bad right now!"

"Is it? You were looking at their chests too much anyway."

I couldn't see past Fiona’s breasts, but I could feel Iris’s fingers beginning to gently stimulate my crotch. Her delicate movements were pushing me closer and closer to the edge. And then... amidst the hot steam, a strange sensation—both cold and hot—tormented me until the heat in my crotch finally released.

"Ugh..."

Even though I knew one of them was the Demon Lord, my body had reacted.

"Ufufu, you let out a lot. It’s kinda sticky..."

"Lord Kamiya... you looked so good just now. How was our service?"

"We are not done yet. According to the book I read the other day..."

Cecilia’s eyes were fixed on my crotch with excitement. She boldly crouched down, bringing her face close to my swelling. Her warm breath hit my skin, giving me goosebumps.

"You! You don't mean...!"

Regardless of my shock, Cecilia didn't hesitate to put my member in her mouth. Her hot tongue began to erode my sanity. Yes, it was a 'cleanup blowjob.'

"...Mgh, to make me drink such a bitter thing, Kamiya-dono is truly a demon."

"You're the one who drank it on your own...!"

Cecilia pulled away with a satisfied, yet somehow excited smile. Her expression was a world away from that of a dignified female knight.

"Heh...!?"

I completely stopped thinking as a new sensation hit me. This time, Fiona’s white hand was stimulating my crotch. This situation was way too much for a virgin. My body was at its limit, and my mind was going blank.

"Now, Lord Kamiya. We’ve only just begun. We have to make it so you can't think of anyone but us..."

Fiona whispered in my ear, her sweet breath tickling me. Then Iris hugged me from behind. Though her touch was modest, it was firm, and my crotch began to heat up all over again.

"Now you won't even look at other women, right? I don't know who you'll choose, but it better be one of us."

Under their dual erotic assault, the fortress of my sanity was on the verge of complete collapse. But I thought... despite the Demon Lord situation, was it really okay to just go with the flow like this?

"Hey, everyone... can we talk for a second?"

I spoke to the three of them as we soaked in the bath together after our... "activities."

"What is it? Do you want us to make you feel even better?"

"Kamiya-dono... five times in a row. Truly impressive..."

"So a Hero’s stamina applies to that as well..."

"No! That's not it! This is a serious talk!"

If I didn't say something, they were going to think I was some kind of sex monster. But can you blame me? I’m traveling with beautiful girls and I’ve been busy; I haven't had much time to handle things on my own.

"There's something I need to tell you all properly."

"And what would that be?"

"You're being awfully serious... Oh, I know. It’s that 'Sage Mode' where guys get smart after they finish, right?"

"Lady Iris... I think you’re mistaken."

Since they were derailing the conversation, I decided to just ignore the comments and push forward.

"I haven't told you the reason why I came to this world or what my wish was. Back in my old world... I sacrificed my life to save a child. My kindness was recognized, and I was brought here."

"As expected of Lord Kamiya. You were kind even in your previous world."

"Thanks... but the main point is what comes next. The Goddess told me when I was summoned: 'Defeat the Demon Lord and build a harem.' At first, I was against it, but after spending time with all of you, I started to think that might be okay too. However, I don't think it should be just anyone... I want to choose someone I actually have mutual feelings for. But for certain reasons, I can't choose that person just yet."

"..."

When I confessed the circumstances of my reincarnation and the Goddess's command, they all fell silent, staring at me. I wondered if they thought it was too late to be saying such things, but I felt I had to say it.

"And yet, I’ve ended up relying on everyone’s affection and letting you do such lewd things to me. If I keep letting this happen..."

"It is not 'bad.' Because we are the ones who want to do it."

"But..."

"Kamiya-dono, you do not understand. The three of us are doing this because we have consented to it. Simply put, we want the man we love to be happy. There is no need for you to feel guilty."

"Yeah. Though I'll hold a grudge if you fall for another woman like that Succubus Queen."

All three of them spoke with such kindness. It made me so happy it almost hurt.

"But in such a convenient situation..."

"The reason we think it's okay for things to be 'convenient' is because of your sincerity and kindness. As a Hero, you could have forced us to serve you. But you didn't. You tried to get to know us and you accepted us for who we are. That is why it’s okay."

"Right... I mean, I'll be mad if you don't pick me... but I'd still bless you. Because these two and you are all precious to me."

"Indeed. I do not know how it is in your world, but here, those with great power are encouraged to have harems. We shall simply work hard to be the ones you choose. If I cannot be your wife... you may keep me as your pet."

"Everyone..."

Knowing they were speaking from the heart made me want to cry. Fiona, Cecilia, and Iris all hugged me as if to reassure me.

That was why I felt it even more strongly. Because they loved me so much, I wanted to welcome all three of them into my harem...

And that was exactly why I had to find the Demon Lord.

★★★

I felt no guilt as I watched Irene, the Succubus Queen, vanish into dust with a final scream. I have no sense of camaraderie with them. After all, I was forced into becoming the Demon Lord...

Moreover, the Hero and my companions have become far more important to me than monsters or the Four Heavenly Kings. They were the ones who first called me an equal comrade...

When I noticed the Hero summoning, I came here to kill him, but I never expected to be neutralized instantly. To clear that humiliation, I infiltrated the Hero's party. At first, it was just a mission. I tried to poison him, but it didn't work; I tried to seduce him, but he didn't react. I thought he was a real handful.

But as I continued traveling with Kamiya... how should I put it?

His rugged kindness, his almost too-earnest sincerity. Even as I got irritated by his denseness when it came to women, being by his side made my heart feel warm.

Especially when that Succubus Queen tried to touch him—the intense rage that boiled up from the depths of my chest. That was, without a doubt, "jealousy."

For me, the Demon Lord, to fall in love with the Hero.

My face in the mirror is slightly flushed. This is the first time since becoming the Demon Lord that my emotions have been shaken this much.

"I wish this time could last forever..."

As I whispered that, my eyes in the mirror flashed a deep crimson for a second. At the same time, a cold voice echoed in my head.

'Demon Lord-sama... are you almost ready to charm the Hero? The monsters are reaching the limit of their patience...'

This is bad... I've been putting it off, but it seems their patience is truly at its end. I can hardly tell them that instead of charming him, I'm the one who's been charmed.

'Very well... could you be alone at midnight? There is something I wish to discuss.'

At those words, the heat drained from my face. It seems the time limit has finally arrived. I’ve been deceiving them until now, but it looks like I have to take action.

"You really just say whatever you want... I know I can't stay like this forever..."

Should I just take a fatal step...? I thought, and the faces of my two companions came to mind. Our promise—'No matter who is chosen, we won't hold a grudge. And in the end, we let Kamiya choose'—made me hesitate.

"What should I do...?"

The pain in my chest grew as I felt caught between the monsters and my friends. Most likely, that person intends to do something when I am alone.

"Kamiya... I know I’m being selfish... but if you would come for me..."

In order to seek help from the person I love... I began to write a certain letter to Kamiya.