Chapter 256: The Strongest Demon (1)

Chapter 256: The Strongest Demon (1)

Its quite something to think I would set foot here once again.

Ten days have passed since I was asked to demonstrate my strength. During that time, my opponent seemed to have been selected and I was brought to a place both nostalgic and loathsome for me the waiting room of the battle arena.

I had assumed that the event would take place somewhere in the royal castle, but it was decided that the arena where one could fight more freely was a better choice. However, there were hardly any regular spectators; mostly just civil and military officials gathered. It seems only those interested in seeing my abilities gathered here.

I havent been told anything about my opponent. It appears that information was kept strictly confidential from those related to me, like Liselotte and Crus.

Is that so? Come to think of it, this place holds some history for the boss, huh?

However, it seems youre not too bothered by it.

My comrades who had come to the royal capital with me were currently in the same waiting room. Just like me, they were effectively under house arrest in a room in the royal castle, and apart from not being able to go out freely, they seemed to be living comfortably enough.

However, we only had servants visit us around meal times, but it seemed that Zalds room had servants or more precisely, maids visiting several times a day. By the standards of human beauty, Zald was considered exceptionally handsome. It was likely that the maids made up reasons to come by, hoping to catch a glimpse of his face.

Ah. Of course its not that I feel nothing, but I dont feel much irritation either.

Lets set aside the circumstances of my comrades for now. The arena was supposed to be a place filled with negative memories from my scorpion days, including the so-called training which was more like abuse by Georg and the deadly battles with ferocious beasts. Now that Im remembering it, theres no doubt that I felt uncomfortable.

Yet surprisingly, my discomfort was minimal. It was as if I was looking down on someone elses memories. I have a theory about why that might be. Its probably because Ive become a demon.

Both the me from my scorpion days and the me after becoming a demon are certainly myself. However, having lived in my current body for so long, my past self during my scorpion days seems almost like it happened to someone else.

Nevertheless, the gratitude I felt towards Chris who was kind to me back then, the friendship with the Popi person, and the bond I had with Woodsorrel whom I met during the rookie tournament, were deeply engraved in my heart. The feeling of it being someone elses life applies only to my own experiences.

. Come to think of it, you mentioned seeing the memories of the one you were synthesized with. That might be the reason.

No, Orvo was adamant that souls do not mix. Theres no way his soul remains within me. He said that having multiple souls in one body is what causes synthetic beasts to go berserk. So, his soul shouldnt be inside me.

Even if his soul isnt present, perhaps viewing those memories has had some influence on you?

Besides, the shape of your body has changed significantly. It might just be that.

Regardless of what we say here, were not scholars; its beyond us. You may as well go to sleep and it would be more meaningful.

Ugh

It was Rinne who sharply silenced the men debating this way and that. Her point was valid and we had no choice but to fall silent.

Even though a battle was about to take place, the atmosphere in the waiting room was extremely relaxed. Part of it was because we were used to fighting, but more so because no one expected me to struggle against any of the creatures prepared here.

But Chris went a step further and already figured out that I had never intended to kill from the start. As expected of her, Chris seemed to have me all figured out.

I wouldnt hesitate if the opponent was a criminal but it seems thats not the case. I would find it difficult to kill those who share a similar fate to mine.

I thought as much. But are you sure? His Majesty seems to want you to show overwhelming power while winning.

Ill manage somehow Its about time, isnt it?

Contrary to her words, Chris didnt seem overly concerned. This wasnt because she didnt care, but rather because she had placed her utmost trust in me. While the expectations of King Carl were of little concern to me, I felt compelled to live up to her expectations with all my might.

As we were engaged in this exchange, it seemed the time for battle had arrived. The sound of multiple footsteps approaching our waiting room could be heard. I stood up and fastened my twin swords which had been leaning against the wall around my waist.

Well, it seems the time has finally come. Ive grown tired of waiting.

King Carl remarked with an unmistakable sense of excitement in the arenas VIP room. Even though he was the young king and the hero of the kingdom, he displayed a childlike innocence. The reason, of course, was the anticipation of catching a glimpse of Antares power.

He was aware that this one-sided test of strength was unwelcome to Antares and that it had prevented Antares from serving him directly. The compromise of having Antares under the indirect and non-absolute supervision of Lieselotte, rather than a direct command, was something he still regretted.

Yet honestly speaking, King Carl was irresistibly excited about the prospect of witnessing Antares in battle with his own eyes. For King Carl who had originally planned to serve the nation as a warrior the strong were not only objects of respect but also important people he had to keep by his side.

Antares was a demon who had distinguished himself in the war and was the leader of the strongest demons. For King Carl, he was a figure deserving of the utmost respect and someone he desperately wanted to ally with. If they had been alone, its likely Carl would have cast aside all pride and courtesy to bow before him.

If only I hadnt made such a half-hearted effort

Theres no use dwelling on whats done, Your Majesty.

Yes, I know, but Oh! Here he comes!

As King Carl continued to lament his past mistakes, Adelheid scolded him, just as Antares appeared in the arena. He was dressed as he had been when he met King Carl in a simple outfit and a long cloak.

Some of the civil officials might have scoffed at his unimposing appearance, deeming it almost ragged, but not a single military officer underestimated him. The reason was clear: even as he stood still, there was an intimidating lack of openings about him.

Although there was no killing intent to be felt, there was an undeniable certainty that anyone who dared to attack would find themselves humbled and face down on the ground. Everyone here knew better than to underestimate the title of the strongest demon.

Look there, Addy. See the one trembling with fear with a face pale? He was the one boasting about how we should have disposed of Antares when we first met him.

Thats rather distasteful Your Majesty, isnt it? Considering he is one of your own subjects Ah, it seems his opponent has also made an appearance.

Ah, this is I can see why they were so confident.

GYAOOOOOO!!!

As the opponent made his entrance, shaking the ground with each step, King Carl hummed in admiration at the sight of the towering figure that appeared in the arena. The creature that let out a roar towards the sky was one of the dragon race known as the Fire Dragon.