Chapter 184: Welcoming and Audience

Parade.

There really was one.

With an open carriage that was ornamented in a conspicuous way to the level of a portable shrine in festivals, it carried us from the gate to the castle.

Since coming to this world, this has been the most embarrassment I’ve had.

It made me think that there’s no other day I wanted to bring my mask as much it did today.

At the front, Io slowly advanced on his black horse-like ride; at our side, there’s Rona.

Well these guys are in their own country, and their position is that of a demon general, so they are probably used to this kind of treatment.

But I was a normal citizen in Japan, and in this world I am a merchant, so being immediately able to cope with this type of event is impossible.

I was somehow able to return my stiffened face to normal, but I was unable to reach an understanding or free myself from obstructive thoughts.

What surprised me was Mio and Shiki.

Mio had an unconcerned face as if nothing’s happening, and Shiki was smilingly responding to the welcoming words thrown at him and was waving his hand.

Incredible.

These two are honestly impressive.

Also, I don’t know if this is the sense of worth for the demon race, or that’s just their valuation of hyumans, but it felt fresh.

As soon as the parade began, obviously, the gaze of the blue crowd that was lined up at both sides of the wide street were gathered at us.

I had shrunk the magic armor to a point that can’t be seen, and my magic power itself is in a state where other people would find it hard to notice.

Because of that, I who was the main guest, was looked at with puzzled eyes; at Mio with curiosity; and at Shiki, they simply let out their breath.

From three of us, the one who was showing the most power to the outside was Shiki.

Not much later, eyes of respect were also directed at Mio.

Glittering eyes were directed at her.

Not long after, cheers were also poured at me.

Even though I am barefaced.

For the demon race, the appearance is secondary. I understood that here they evaluate people by their power.

Because they are demons, they have blue skin and have horns on their head, but just as expected from the people created by the Goddess, they all have nice looking features.

I don’t know what kind of introduction they did to us, but being welcomed by a group of beauties feels uncomfortable.

“Fufufu, they really did it. Last night’s reception in the village was truly exaggerated as well, but I didn’t expect that they would go through so much effort.” (Shiki)

We enter a towering castle, and were led into a spacious room.

Shiki, this is not something to laugh about.

Here I am, unable to stop sighing because of the mental fatigue.

If I let my guard down, a deep sigh would leak out from the depths of my stomach.

Even if Mio confirmed me that there’s no tapping and spying set up in this room, my rapid fire sighs were not stopping.

How deplorable.

“There were a number of stores that seemed delicious-looking. I will check them out later.” (Mio)

Now that she mentions it, the kebab-looking one looked good.

Wait, that’s not it.

Is it okay to go outside? That’s the first thing that should be answered, Mio.

Fuh…

“Outside huh. I will ask later and see if we can step out, Mio. And so, as expected, the reception at last night’s village was also a plan from them, Shiki?” (Makoto)

I ask for confirmation of Shiki.

It is certainly true that for a town that has been enduring blizzard and existing, they gave us a warm welcome.

I thought that it might be because people related to the Demon Lord and the Demon Generals had come, but is there some sort of underlying reason?

The most I thought was: ‘The Demon Lord is also giving orders to the towns’.

“Of course. ‘Even in unexpected places, the demon race is a monolith, and the Demon Lord also has good reputation’, is most likely what they were trying to appeal. The parade is also a part of it. They probably thought that a welcoming was obvious for guests of the Demon Lord, and they must have wanted to show the trust they have for their own lord.” (Shiki)

“Are you trying to say that this appeal is another word for political pressure?” (Makoto)

“No. The Demon Lord is without doubt doing a good government for the demons- no- the demi-humans as a whole. This capital is without doubt the place with most demons, but the sight of demi-humans wasn’t rare, right? In the citizens that were welcoming us, they were naturally mixed in.” (Shiki)

“Ah, that’s true. In that case, there’s no need to make an appeal. We would be able to tell just by looking around normally.” (Makoto)

“…They wanted us to understand the demon race in the short time of our stay, is most likely what they were trying to achieve. If it were people that only had good points… it would have been easier though.” (Shiki)

“Eh, is there anything troublesome coming?” (Makoto)

Seeing the words of Shiki stalling, I felt a sense of foreboding.

“No. It seems like for the demon race side, they are properly trying to grasp Waka-sama. At this rate, they will probably not try a scheme of separating us. Of course, I will be keeping an eye and providing support.” (Shiki)

“Yeah, do your best Shiki. I will leave that part to you.” (Mio)

… Mio.

If you are leaving that to him, just what do you intend to do.

“I will leave the protection of Waka-sama and recklessness display to Mio-dono. I am counting on you. If I don’t have to fling my power as Larva, they will probably slightly understand the depths of our power after all.” (Shiki)

“… You two, I am counting on you, okay?” (Makoto)

It seems like Mio does have intentions to work.

For now I am relieved.

Ah, I kinda feel nervous now.

At Rotsgard, when I met with the high-standing people of countries, it was an emergency situation, so I remember that I wasn’t that nervous.

Being welcomed in this kind of way and even putting on a parade, well, it was to be expected.

At the Empire, before I could get nervous, there were a lot of events going on, and Tomoki served as a good stress relieve. Well, he made it possible for me to use him that way.

*Knock*

Uo, it’s here.

“Excuse my intrusion. The representative of Kuzunoha Company, Raidou Misumi-sama. The preparations for the audience have been finished.”

A serene voice.

The lively words increased my nervousness.

Deep breath~, deep breath~.

“Ah, yes! I will go soon!” (Makoto)

Shiki opened the door and leaves to the corridor.

Two armed soldiers were there and two demons with a nice personal appearance.

There are 4 people coming to guide me?

No, but the two others are not armed. Did civil officials come as well?

They must have noticed me staring unconsciously, the two lowered their head.

But they don’t say anything.

The two had a difference in height like that of Akua and Eris.

The tall one is a man with indigo blue short hair and a fine goat-like horn.

In terms of age, he is obviously older than me, but I think he is young. Maybe in his mid-twenties?

His demeanor is soft and has a gentle smile on his face.

The other one is a small woman.

Or more like, little girl.

Long straight blonde hair, and a still small horn.

Her mouth looks like it is smiling, but her eyes were showing a light as if inspecting me.

… At least it is better than the scheming eyes of Eris.

Hmph, well, there should be an explanation later.

Even though they have come to tell me that the audience preparations have been done, it would be rude to keep talking here. As Shiki said, it seems like the demon race won’t be coming with any foul plays, so let’s just be obedient.

This may be common etiquette of the demon race.

“Then we will be guiding you.”

“Please do.” (Makoto)

One of the armed soldiers measured the timing and talks to me.

I nod.

Right now it is without doubt noon, and yet, we are walking the corridor with lit lights.

It is always night here after all.

A capital of everlasting night does sound kinda cool.

The people that were walking the opposite direction, no matter their appearance, they all shifted to the sides and lowered their heads as they saw us off.

Yeah, it does feel itchy.

But that time didn’t continue for long.

We arrived at a big door that felt like a gate.

There were two robust soldiers… no, maybe knights, with a clear difference in hair color that were standing at both sides of the door.

The two that were silently walking behind until now went along with the two soldiers and approached the door. They seem to be talking about something.

As expected, the two with good personal appearance are probably from a higher standing.

While I was thinking that, the big door opens.

I was bask by a faint light, so maybe it has some sort of magic imbued.

From the door that opened without making a sound, I could see a red carpet spread out.

Oh, it truly looks like an audience room.

Being urged to go in, I thought this before going into the room.

Maybe there’s some sort of etiquette here.

“Uhm, can you please tell me if there’s some sort of custom I am required to do?” (Makoto)

I approach the smiling man that has an easy to talk atmosphere, and quietly ask him.

“It is okay to just act as you normally do. It is a given that you don’t know the etiquette of the demon race. If Raidou-sama holds respect for our Lord, then it is enough if you just show it in your own way.”

“I-I see. Understood.” (Makoto)

‘If you don’t know, it is fine even if you are lacking in manners’, is what he is trying to say, right?

Okay.

Let’s go.

Resolving myself, I face forward.

The man that gave me an explanation and the girl that came along with him were standing at both sides of the red carpet that I advanced in.

Are they people that will be participating in the audience?

If there’s people like that, it would make me feel better.

I continue straight through the red carpet.

Mio and Shiki were following a few steps behind.

After the red carpet, there’s a stairway, and after that there’s the throne.

I can see that there’s someone there.

… Or more like, standing.

It is not sitting on the throne?

No no no, not only that, it is walking down the stairs?!

Eh?!

Is the Lord of the demon race supposed to do something like that?

No good, don’t fall in chaos.

This might be a plan from them as well.

I was about to walk in quick steps, but I was somehow able to maintain my speed.

If I continue on, someone will probably notify me of where is the point I should stop.

I walk in a calm pace.

I’m totally at my wits end inside my head though.

The person that’s probably the Demon Lord doesn’t stop its feet and continues going down the stairs.

The distance steadily shortens.

This is unexpected, really unexpected.

Being bewildered in this occasion can’t be helped.

I should at least try not to stutter. Yeah, let’s do that.

Subordinates, stop that person!

Your Lord and a stranger merchant will end up talking at close range, you know?

Isn’t that bad?

But my internal screams ended unanswered.

My legs stop.

Because I can’t advance further.

Right in front of me, there’s the Demon Lord.

Wearing a luxurious cloak that covered all sides of its body.

The height of my gaze would be staring right at his chest, so the first impression that came out was his cloak.

Looking up at the Lord of the demon race who is standing straight, I look at his face closely.

And so, he was younger than what I thought.

It is an appearance that would make me question if he has already turned 40.

As a man, he looks like the age where he has passed the difficult period.

His short blonde tortoise shell cut hair was lifted up in order to avoid having it on his horn. At around the top of his ears, there’s two thick curved horns like those of a goat.

Our eyes met and we both look at each other.

He is the Lord. I could tell that in one glance.

What an incredible presence.

If we fight, I will probably win.

But, how to say it. Right, he is a man that I can’t beat at anything else aside from that, is what I thought.

It is not a sharpness that shoots through, but eyes that seem to envelop you.

His face had turned into a wide smile.

But that wasn’t a sensation of closeness, it was something that made him feel even bigger. I felt overawed by it.

Noticing my legs that were about to step back, I stop them.

Then, I noticed. The hand stretched out from the Demon Lord.

I thought that he was asking for a handshake, so I reflexively put out my right hand, and just as expected, he grabbed it.

With relatively high strength.

“I’m glad you have come. Welcome to the capital of the demon race, Raidou-dono. This one is the Lord of the demons, in the outside, the people call this one, Demon Lord. My name is long and troublesome, so it is fine for Raidou-dono to just remember this one as Zef.” (Zef)

With a clear voice, the Demon Lord speaks.

“Zef-sama. I am Raidou Misumi. A merchant running a business called Kuzunoha Company.” (Makoto)

Eh, I didn’t say anything strange, right?

I should be fine, right?

“Umu, this one is truly sorry for having you walk through such a tough route. We are in the middle of a war, so please forgive us. In exchange, at the time you are here, this one promises you that you will not face any discomfort. Along with the rudeness of this one’s subordinates, I will have them atone for it plenty.” (Zef)

“I thank you for the grateful words. Just that, the case with the Demon Generals was a misfortune in war and being at cross purposes. Please don’t think about atonement.” (Makoto)

“A misfortune brought in war huh. You will think of it that way. This one is truly grateful. But about the entertainment, it is something obvious to do for our guests. This one wants you to enjoy yourself. And so, are those two there Raidou-dono’s subordinates? People from your company?” (Zef)

“Ah, sorry! The man is called Shiki, and the woman is Mio. The both of them are followers that are helping me out a lot.” (Makoto)

With my words, Mio and Shiki lift their lowered heads and do a bow.

“My name’s Shiki. One of the Kuzunoha Company members that has come together with master.” (Shiki)

“Same, Mio-desu.” (Mio)

“Hoh~. The two of you seem to be really strong. This one is jealous of Raidou-dono. No, saying something like being jealous would be rude huh. Raidou-dono must possess quite the power as well. Then it is natural that these two would serve under you. It was this one’s mistake, please do forgive this one.” (Zef)

“I am always being helped out by them anyways.” (Makoto)

“My apologies. But it is regrettable that this one can’t even measure your strength. If you are hiding it, that means you have enough ability to even hide it from this one. It seems that inviting Kuzunoha Company was fortuitous for us demon race.” (Zef)

“Those words are wasted on me.” (Makoto)

“Fufufu. An audience that would stiffen one’s shoulders would be tiring for Raidou-dono, right? Then let’s change locations and do some leisure talk.” (Zef)

?!!!

It’s still not over?!

“Understood. Do you mind having my followers accompanying us as well?”

“Of course this one doesn’t. Your companions can also come. Right, this one is thinking about having a few of my relatives, children of mine, accompany us. It is a good chance for them to have a conversation with a hyuman, moreover, a merchant at that. Is it okay?” (Zef)

“Children huh. I don’t mind.” (Makoto)

The children of the Demon Lord. Then does that mean the prince and princess?

Now that I think about it, the princess Lily from Gritonia, prince Yoshua from Limia; I have quite a good amount of prince and princess’ as acquaintances.

It makes me actually feel that me and my company are strangely famous.

“Then let’s go.” (Zef)

“… Zef-sama will guide us himself?!” (Makoto)

My tone reflexively comes out strong.

“Don’t worry, it is just around the corner. Ah, you haven’t placed anything in your stomach since coming to the capital, right? About that, this one will have it prepared.” (Zef)

Zef-san glances at Mio?

He looked at Mio.

It is not like she is dissatisfied because of hunger.

It even seems like she is slightly happy to hear that we will be eating something.

Waving his cloak, Zef-san walks towards the door we had entered from.

I follow the Lord.

It would obviously be bad to be left behind.

With a speed that doesn’t turn into running, I hurriedly follow after him.

◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆

“Now then, the Kuzunoha Company is an interesting bunch. What do you guys think?”

A room that’s used for meetings.

At the big table there’s plates, and light meals that can be taken with the hand were being brought to it.

Beginning with the Demon Lord, the demons that were in that place also had food still on their plates, but the three plates at the empty seats were still on the table and its contents had been cleanly finished.

This is after the conversation with Raidou, Mio and Shiki had finished.

The situation in the room was proof of this.

“…A beast that devours meat, no matter how docile it tries to be, there won’t be any assurance that it won’t attack. That’s the impression I had of Kuzunoha Company.”

The first one to respond to the Demon Lord’s words was one of the demons that went to receive Raidou; the tall man.

“Roshe huh. Fumu, then if it’s you, how would you associate with Raidou and the Kuzunoha Company?” (Zef)

“From their words, obtaining true cooperation from them is impossible. But there’s no need to go out of our way to awaken the sleeping danger. We will have a connection when necessary, and in the future, I think that it would be appropriate to act in a way that we don’t end up facing front to front with them. Fortunately, it seemed like they didn’t have any intentions of providing man power to the hyumans.” (Roshe)

“So cooperation will be impossible huh. It is certainly true that it will be difficult. They clearly stated that they won’t take any powers as allies. Even if any of the sides does an action that benefits the other, it will be an action that directly relates to their benefit and not with the intentions of being hostile with anyone.” (Zef)

Roshe nods at the words of the Lord.

“Those words of Raidou sounded very dangerous to me. In this war that has our fate at stake, they will only participate in the war with their benefit at foremost. That’s how it sounded to me.” (Rushia)

“Rushia, are you saying that the Kuzunoha Company will become a third power?”

The next one to speak was a woman.

A different female from the girl that had come to receive Raidou. A woman with a calm atmosphere around her.

Looking straight at the Demon Lord, the light in her eyes didn’t waver.

From this group, she is the only one wearing armor even if it’s lightweight, which made her stand out.

“… Right now I wouldn’t go so far as to say that. But it is like having a sword hanging on our heads. An unrestful sensation.” (Rushia)

“… The words of Raidou: ‘If there’s hostility, we will deliver retribution’, is the part that you are worried about?” (Zef)

“Yes. Raidou said that if anything is tried against his friends, he wouldn’t forgive it. In a clear manner.” (Rushia)

“This one thinks that those words of his had another way of taking it. Most likely its foundation is that he won’t be showing hostility to anyone himself; is what he intended to mean when saying it.” (Zef)

“But just like what your Majesty has said, Raidou made an allusion that there’s a chance they might do something that could antagonize us. Moreover, adding the intention of having us overlook it.” (Rushia)

“Fumu, those words, this one doesn’t think they were said with the intentions that you have stated, Rushia. There’s certainly a few words from Raidou that gave out a doubtful feeling though.” (Zef)

“As long as Raidou and the Kuzunoha Company doesn’t properly state their position, without stating if they are black or white, I am against being intimate with them.” (Rushia)

“This one properly understands your view now. Sem, how do you view it?” (Zef)

Listening to the last words of Rushia, the Demon Lord shifts the conversation to the man that was silently listening to the conversation.

A demon with long silver hair tied in a bundle and wearing glasses.

It is also the demon that secretly felt closeness to Raidou because he felt like they were glass comrades.

Although the Raidou in question had already taken them off since the matter at the wasteland though.

Opening his narrow eyes, the man called Sem speaks.

“I have a similar opinion to big brother, but I thought that it would be better to have a deeper connection with them.” (Sem)

“Hoh~. That’s quite different from Rushia.” (Zef)

Sem looks at Rushia.

She didn’t show an displeased expression after hearing the opinion of him which is practically the complete opposite of hers. She just closed her eyes and silently took her seat.

“We have different standings by nature. If I was in the same position as Rushia who thinks of the national defense as foremost, I would have had the same opinion as her.” (Sem)

“You who are in the position of diplomacy, has a different opinion, right? Let’s hear it.” (Zef)

“Yes. Sadly, Raidou-dono didn’t answer much of the questions I asked and it was mostly Shiki-dono who did, but I think this is the opinion of the Kuzunoha Company. First of all, they possess a transportation ability that surpasses us by lengths and bounds.” (Sem)

“… What’s your basis?” (Zef)

“They have experienced the harsh travelling in the demon race territory. But well, even in the demon race territory it was one of the most harshest of the places though. Our territory has increased quite a bit after all.” (Sem)

“Sem, that’s not answering anything.” (Zef)

“Oh, I am sorry. I unconsciously lengthened it. It was my bad habit. In other words, they have experienced that level of travelling, and yet, if for example I asked something like: ‘We need these type of things prepared, would you be able to bring them?’ Shiki-dono would normally nod, and its price was truly reasonable. It was a price that was purely placed to obtain profit from the cost of production.” (Sem)

“…Continue.” (Zef)

“Yes. In other words, it didn’t take much into consideration the expenses that would come from travelling in these lands. The warranty for the danger should make the price even higher or it would be strange. Moreover, they were talking as if they didn’t have any problems with bringing fruits, vegetables and meat. This is something that Raidou-dono said though.” (Sem)

“That’s why you think the Kuzunoha Company has some sort of method to  certainly deliver the goods, moreover, in a way that doesn’t entail any danger?” (Zef)

“That’s how it can be taken. If there’s a company that’s able to transport the goods from faraway without any damage in the goods, their worth would be unmeasurable. There would be no other foreign trade partner as beneficial as this. The problem would be if our market would appeal to their interest though. I don’t think it will be that much of a problem since he is a hyuman and the specialties of the demon race territory have a rare value. Of course, thinking of the possibility that those goods might be sold to other hyumans, I think it would be best to not trade anything that’s related to our classified information.” (Sem)

“Then your opinion is that: ‘As a partner that can help enrich the demon race, it would be best to hold a connection with them’?” (Zef)

“Yes. We are beginning to realize a wealthy country for us demons and the demi-humans that have decided to coexist with us. But the territory that has become bigger now, still has slow movement in goods. If we create a good business connection with the Kuzunoha Company, it would become a big help to the goods distribution in our territory. If put in an example, it would be like having blood flowing better through the veins.” (Sem)

“So you are saying that the current demon race doesn’t have its blood flowing all the way huh.” (Zef)

The words of the Demon Lord had a tone of self-blame.

“Fast development will always create bents in places. It is only because I am lacking in skills. Normally, we shouldn’t be relying on external sources, but even so, I have judged that our current demon race requires their existence.” (Sem)

This is what Sem declares.

For Sem, the Kuzunoha Company might have looked like the hand of salvation.

“Understood. This one will use it as reference. Now then, the remaining one is Sari huh. This one thought that you would be the first one to state your opinion though. The first one that wished to come along was you after all.” (Zef)

“…”

“Seeing the Kuzunoha Company and speaking with them; this one wants you to tell me what you felt about it.” (Zef)

“…Yes” (Sari)

The last one the Lord shifted the conversation to was a little girl.

One of the people that came to escort Raidou.

She had a face as if meditating something in a deep, really deep manner.

Doing a short reply, Sari moves aside the hand that was at her mouth and lifts up her head.

“Those people… no, more accurately speaking, Raidou is incredibly dangerous.” (Sari)

“… Fumu.” (Zef)

The same direction as Rushia’s opinion huh, is what the Demon Lord thought.

For someone that had interest in them, she had stopped to a quite normal viewpoint, is also the unexpected feeling he had of Sari.

She continues.

“My ally by nature is the analysis of information, but after being face to face with these people, I will be speaking with a bit of instinct mixed in as well.” (Sari)

“This one doesn’t mind. What did you feel?” (Zef)

“Trackless power. Moreover, at an overwhelming extent.” (Sari)

Hearing the abstract words of Sari, all the people present narrow their eyes.

“You are saying quite the abstract words there. That’s rare, Sari.” (Zef)

“I am sorry, your Majesty. But if I am to put it together, that’s the result that comes out. As an existence of power, the Kuzunoha Company is certainly not an existence we can ignore. In that aspect, I am of the same opinion as Ani-sama and the others.” (Sari) <Ani=Older brother>

Roshe, Sem, Rushia; the three of them nod at the words of Sari.

“Just like in the report of Rona, they are appealing. For us, they are incredibly appealing, moreover, strong. Conversely, that is also incredibly dangerous and an existence that can jeopardize the demon race. What I mean is that, uhm, I can’t properly bring it out in words. For all that power they have, they are way too much of an unstable factor, is how I thought of it.” (Sari)

“Unstable?” (Zef)

“If I am to force myself to put my personal opinion into words, then yeah, that’s how it is. Unstable, moreover, an unstable factor that we don’t know its limits of. Raidou said he won’t cooperate with anyone in the war, he won’t be taking sides. That is just like Rushia ane-sama said, having a sword hanging over our heads. But just as Sem ani-sama said, that power could be the wonder medicine that might solve many of the problems the demon race has.” (Sari)

“Then wouldn’t it end up the same as Roshe’s opinion? Thinking of the risks while having a connection with them.” (Zef)

“…I am concerned about what’s further beyond that.” (Sari)

“Beyond?” (Zef)

“I illustrated Raidou as a power that can’t be kept in check. In other words, the time when Raidou suddenly turns to face us.” (Sari)

“Acting in a way to make sure it doesn’t happen, won’t work?” (Zef)

“We don’t know how something that can’t be kept in check will move. If in the middle of our war with the hyumans, we end up instilling his rage in a moment we don’t know of, he would most likely not hesitate in baring his fangs towards the demon race. Let me ask you, your Majesty. Your Majesty, can we defeat Kuzunoha Company?” (Sari)

The words of Sari make the air in the area colder.

Words that could be taken as rude.

But the Demon Lord, after a moment of silence, looks straight at Sari without signs of faltering in his voice.

“…Don’t know. But probably…” (Zef)

“Probably?” (Sari)

“We won’t win. The best we could do is most likely to put our efforts in not losing. After all, Io and Rona who are our prided demon generals, couldn’t be his opponents even when fighting at the same time. And in reality, Io was dealt with in his spare time, eliminating him from the battlefield. His close aides as well as his employees, they are surely not normal either.” (Zef)

“?!!”

“…”

Aside from Sari, the eyes of the other three opened wide at the words of the Demon Lord.

Sari took those words in silence.

“So you see them as a power that can’t be kept in check huh. As a commentary describing Raidou, it might be the most appropriate. This one’s opinion is that he is a sleeping dragon. It might be a poor plan to just try not waking it up huh.” (Zef)

“He needs a choker. Also, it can’t be just any choker. There’s the need for a choker with the seed called demon race which will double as an insurance as well.” (Sari)

“A choker even when we can’t keep it in check?” (Zef)

“Yes. Fortunately, I don’t think there’s an existence that is guiding his will yet. At the very least, he is not a talent that we can let the hyumans have. This timing is truly fortunate. I think that there’s worth in trying.” (Sari)

“So we will be making Raidou into our lap dog? It is an opinion quite different from the other three.” (Zef)

“No. We will do our best to lead him into not biting the demon race, is probably the best result. He will most likely not be tamed.” (Sari)

“Fu… hahahaha!! You have seen through Raidou to this extent and yet, you still say that? Well, they are still staying in the capital. In that case, there’s no need be so pessimistic. It may not be a long stay by any means, but… there’s still time.” (Zef)

“…Yes. Just that, looking at the information of him until now, Raidou didn’t show strong any strong will to have a relation of cooperation or minded about his own standing. I don’t know what happened in this short time, but if something did happen, I can’t go without resenting that reason. If he were in a more normal state, it would have been easier to handle.” (Sari)

“That unyielding attitude was also unexpected for this one. Was he like that from the very beginning, or did he have a change of heart, there might have been someone who did something unnecessary. What a troublesome thing they have done. Now then, let’s finish this up. It was worthwhile to hear all your opinions without reserve. You can leave now.” (Zef)

The Demon Lord wraps up the conversation.

The four demons leave the room, and the Demon Lord Zef was the only one left in the room.

“…Fuh, they have become reliable. If the Kuzunoha Company didn’t exist, this one wouldn’t have minded retiring even now. As expected, it is all because of Raidou and the Kuzunoha Company huh. This one doesn’t think the meeting point at Kaleneon’s area was a coincidence. It seems there’s still more surprises for us. It is truly good timing that we were able to make contact with him before he joined any of the heroes.” (Zef)

After words akin to a whisper, the happy expression of the Demon Lord made a complete change. From a Lord, he had turned into an individual called Zef.

“Raidou… how long has it been since this one has felt cold sweat. To have power that even this one can’t measure. At the very least he is stronger than a spirit. Not only a hero, his power might be close to that of a God.” (Zef)

A line of sweat runs down his cheek.

Zef didn’t move for a while in his room.

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0 thoughts on “Chapter 184: Welcoming and Audience

  1. ╔══╦╗────╔╗───╔═╗──────  ∧_∧
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  2. Yeah, I’m with Makoto. Better not to get too involved with any side. There’s no “good” side to be found on this world…

    Seriously, it’s the bug’s fault, though. 😥

      1. To be fair the demons I think just want something better than a living hellhole in the north where beast are as bad as the wastelands or worse and without any sunlight thus less crops to be able to farm(it really sounds like hell except its freezing that hot). Even their most elite soldiers can die without preparation so what about normal citizens trying to scrounge up food? Honestly it makes me wonder now, How The Hell Did Demons Survive This Hellhole While Being Suppressed By Doped Up Humans(at least b4 the bug slept)

    1. If you want to find a ‘good’ country to ally yourself with, you’re in for a long search. You can either settle for the one that’s ‘less bad’, or stay neutral.

    2. It’s war after all. But if Makoto really wanted the Bug to come, the fastest way is siding with Demons. Wiped out all heroes as soon as possible. Kill every annoying noble and royal. Surely, the Bug won’t stay silent. Then, if the Demons turned out biting him, just trample them too. The closest thing of enemy of my enemy is after all those Demons and demi-human. But judging from his personality, he will just be a fair merchant, unless anyone instill his wrath.

  3. Okay I like this guy (although I still hate that bitch), in front of his children (retainer) he able to calmly put the “Lord face” (strong front) even he understands how absurd the opposite side is

    1. Yeah, Zef really has that “dignity of a lord” down. He seems like a stand up guy, all in all.

      In fact, can we take a moment of silence for the version of him Mankoto apparently killed?

    1. I love the comment’s of the demon lord at the end.
      Yeah we can probably stalemate them…
      Inner demon lord (A god infront of me told me that he might destroy my country in one night. WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON)

  4. I’m definitely glad that the demon side is taking things seriously. Too many stories have the plot of “Superpowerful MC, KILL IT WITH FIRE. What, he wiped out that sect of people we were worried about…KILL IT WITH BIGGER/MORE FIRE!”

    1. To be fair, they haven’t actually ruled out the napalm, they’re just at the planning stage where they decide if any special delivery system will help, or if they should be prepared to use the napalm in friendly territory. You know, just in case.

  5. I feel bad for the demons. I’m really respecting how seriously they’re handling Kuzunoha, but I can’t help from laughing at the immense contrast of seriousness between them-I’m flashing back to One Punch Man actually.

    Honestly, they can only really be described as unlucky. They’re stuck and have no realistic way out. What could or should anyone even do in their positions? I suppose Makoto’s unreadable neutrality is to blame too, since they’re left worrying about accidentally pissing him off and receiving irresistible retaliation out of nowhere.

    Also, “That makes me feel like me and my company are strangely famous.”
    ….No comment.

    1. When you find yourself in a cave, with a sleeping dragon between you and the exit, all you really can do is sneak around its back and pray to every god you can think of that you don’t step on its tail.

  6. A choker huh. Well the choker gonna find 2 dragon 1 spider and a undead not to mention ema supervising it lol raidou isnt gonna be a husband anytime soon demon lord. But what an idiot they make a meeting out of first impression. If they interacted more they would know let a sleeping dragon sleep is the best course. after all dont touch my family is his only request

    1. I disagree. They got the gist of Kuzunoha pretty well in that short meeting, I think.

      They already recognize that they’re severely outmatched, but that’s precisely leaving him alone is impossible.
      Makoto was vague enough that they’re afraid of offending him even by accident and causing him to respond with deadly force.

      An analogy would be if you were told there was a bomb hidden somewhere in or around your home, but it won’t go off if you don’t personally go touch it. Nobody would leave it at that and just take care not to touch something they don’t even know the location of; they would at least try to locate it and put up safety measures if outright removal or disarming isn’t possible.

      1. Good Analogy but i would just choose to move house if that really happened ^_^.

        Not that the demons have a place to move to. Heck they could all just submit to Makoto.

        I just wonder how come almost everyone is more mature than he is. I mean he’s panicking inwardly all the time when he meets people who he thinks is of a higher rank.

        He’s trying to stay low key but that obviously not working out too well.

        I can’t wait when his own country is up and running and the fears of the world come into play when he becomes official the 3rd world power. Hopefully there is a scene where he announces himself and says don’t cross into this line with big giant flaming arrows.

      2. I disagree. They know the strength of kuzunoha but not their motive or direction or personality. Its more like a grenade. U know its a grenade and it can explode and ur living in fear think it would explode anytime for no reason. but if u read the instruction u will know ur safe unless u pull the pin or there is outside interference . They are only afraid because they think he is hyuman and more likely to assist hyuman. The bomb threat is true to both demon and hyuman alike if they knew him more

  7. It is truly good timing that we were able to make contact with him before he joined any of the heroes.” (Zef)

    Don’t worry , one of the heroes got his ass whipped by makoto xD

    1. I think it would actually add worries, if they learned that one of his own kind has already managed to piss him off…not to maention all the questions that come up, when you notice that Grittonia is still there, with an intact Hero….

        1. With his level of power he could have ripped the Hero to pices, or even as dream Makoto said, kill him til morning, but he’s not permanently dead or maimed….So what happened that drove such a Makoto to violence, but wasn’t enough to erase the country…?

  8. Demon is pretty cool, wouldn’t mind them as an ally (not friend). Their ideology, their maturity, and their reception towards Kuzunoha Company were so much better than the hyuman side.

    It’s just, yknow, Rona just fucked up real bad.

    1. To be fair, that plan had been in the works for at least three months before Makoto arrived. Plus, at the time, she didn’t have any inkling that it’d be better to call it off.

  9. Demon Lord is the only character who don’t know Makoto but put a respect towards him… not ridicule him… or underestimated him… unlike the hyumans…. they just judge everything from the cover… while the Demon Lord is go to see the inside of the book instead a cover to judge the worth….
    from this we all know the Worth of those race….
    a Heretics who challenged the Bug… and a Faithful dogs who always wagging their tail towards the Bug….

    1. He was one of the first to become aware of Makoto, though, he felt a terrible power coming from the Wasteland around the time the heroes were summoned. Just imagine feeling like death is wandering around outside, for about a week, and then it just disappears….

      1. yeah…. but Demon Lord didn’t know that makoto from Wasteland… so when he meet Makoto he didn’t connect him to “terrifying Existence” at Wasteland where demon lord feel “his Mighty”…..
        because now Makoto is can control his power…. unlike when he at Wasteland… where Mio say that his aura is like a army of full of demon lord ~ so Demon lord didn’t know that the Existence that he feel at Wasteland and the Existence front of him is same person….

    1. While that’s true, I do think it’s unreasonable to have demons do that.

      Primarily because it goes against everything they’ve learned to survive up until now.

      “Fight tooth and nail for survival.”
      “Take down the unfair enemy through any means possible.”
      “Don’t trust the widely prejudiced and brutal hyumans because they have no honor.”

      The best way to deal with Makoto is the most disadvantageous course of action in this world before he arrived.

      1. Not just that, it’s also completely counterintuitive for any government. Governments don’t just work on good faith, they literally can’t. There’s too many people depending on them, and one mistake could be truly catastrophic.

  10. The demons are far more rational and better on many points than Hyumans. I feel like hyumans are more dangerous ones. Dangerous to themselves that is.
    Thanks for the chapter!
    Belated Merry Christmas

  11. Haha. Close to a God?.

    No man…

    Makoto is a God, he befriender with a few of them, create a world and had the understanding ability that is not suppose to be inherited by human or hyuman.

    He achieve God like feats such as making athena had difficulty fighting him, induced the feeling of despair on superior dragon and filled the forever-empty stomach of calamity spider…

    He is literally God…
    Glad that the demon Lord isnt idiotic like Hibiki (who still doesnt know makoto is dangerous) and tomoe (who got bashed due to his tactfulness).

  12. thanks for the chapter. wow Rei-san is working hard as usual huh, not that we dont like it though.

    “Raidou… how long has it been since this one has felt cold sweat. To have power that even this one can’t measure. At the very least he is stronger than a spirit. Not only a hero, his power might be close to that of a God.” (Zef)
    -this gave me a goosebumps.

    i know what’s going to happen nest but this anticipation is making me excited instead, i wonder why.

  13. “That unyielding attitude was also unexpected for this one. Was he like that from the very beginning, or did he have a change of heart, there might have been someone who did something unnecessary. What a troublesome thing they have done. Now then, let’s finish this up. It was worthwhile to hear all your opinions without reserve. You can leave now.” (Zef)

    yeah blame your subordinate Rona for making Makoto feel stupid for what she’s been doing to him

    And thanks for the chap release merry x-mas!

    1. I don’t think it was Rona. Remember what Makoto was thinking when he was trying to recover from the extremely rude and idiotic attitude of a certain piece of trash?

      1. Yeah, actually can we discuss this for a bit?

        Makoto has undergone quite some change ever since…Zara, I guess. Which person and influence do we suppose the demons are talking about?

        1. Now that you mention it, it might be uncertain. Judging from the reactions of these five, his attitude is unexpected, meaning it changed since the last time he had contact with Io and Rona, the last demons he had contact with. So I just assumed that it was caused by Tomoki’s idiocy. He was thinking that he’s been allowing himself to appear too soft and easy to push around while he pounded Tomoki into pulp, after all.

          1. This is starting to dig a little too into the details, but I was under the assumption that Zef’s children didn’t know about that final report, since they seemed shocked when they heard how easily Makoto “defeated” Io.

            Since the conversation was about information and reports, I assumed it was mostly Rona’s data on him from their contact in Academy City.

          2. Rona and Io would have naturally told Zef and his sons and daughters about the battle. If I remember correctly, it was talked about in a chapter that Yoshi did. Now, it might not have been a viable time to gauge his attitude, considering he was busy babysitting Sofia for Root, but Rona didn’t seem to notice anything different about him. If she had, she’d definitely have mentioned it. Whatever anyone thinks about her, she definitely wouldn’t forget or withhold information she thinks is important from her rulers.

      2. might be all of the above. after the epic fight there’s the tips from the new Zara, a bit of rude persuasion from josephine(joshua), a 3rd POV statement by tomoe on how his senpai view on him, and roots with some hint and tips on trashmoki and the others and lastly the having a good feel at trashmoki. Means its a pile up experience before the demonlord

      3. Am I the only one who thinks the change started after his “eyes and nose started bleeding”? I believe the entire persona change started there. Io also stated that the “suit felt like two existences” one of which was as cold and tactless/tactful(?) as a golem, and the other a person.

        You do find that he started thinking about the future more roughly there where the mutants started appearing, but that was more in the company’s sense.

        His persona started changing straight-away after he got the “Mastery of Words” power from the Bug. Thus I guess the gifts he got are starting to change to to demigod and then on to full-blown god.

        Do note: this is all merely my speculation, though.

    2. no,not Rona,he should blame goddess for that. Even with Rona’s action he still timid, he became how he is now because of that bug when she ask him to save her heroes.

  14. Eh, I can’t like anyone who wants to put a choker on Makoto.

    But Zef could still choose wisely!!! I like how they get along with the demi-humans!

    Thanks so much for all your hard work and enjoy the holidays~~~~~~~

  15. for the demon lord to compare him as a sleeping dragon… tsk tsk!! too light! i’d rather say “a creature that have been sleeping in center of the world before the gods descended!”

  16. The demons don’t seem that bad tbh. Why doesn’t Makoto just take in the demon race to asora? Would be much better than that frozen hellhole they currently live in and it would end the war without “going against the hyumans”, not that the bug can do anything about it anyway.

    1. The issue is that it’s impossible to generalize an entire race as “good”. Rona vs Io is a fairly good example.

      Inviting the whole race would invite a bunch of danger to Asora, which is Makoto’s priority as its lord.

  17. Makoto and co. is like an NPC that keeps leveling up by 20 everytime you level up by one. Not only that, but his equipment also get stronger in proportion to him. You know you can’t beat him so might as well do your best to avoid a friendly fire if he’s with you.

  18. Makoto’s line of thinking is actually very simple and humble, he just want everyone be peaceful, so he can do his business safely, especially for his own citizens (Asora).

    But the demon faction had a serious meeting to deduce Makoto’s true “intentions” lol. But understandable, Kuzunoha is strong, and strong people are not aimple minded, MOSTLY.

    They don’t have to worry that much though, while Makoto doesn’t like wars and the both forces involved, his opinions of demons are far better than the treacherous hyumans.

    Zef is also someone worthy of respect. He knows how to act as a lord even if his instincts kept telling him Raidou is dangerous. Good job man.

    Thank Reigokai. Fees great!

    1. It’s a very ironic situation in a half-comedic half-tragic way. I do genuinely hope this can sort itself out somehow for everyone(except Bug, Trashmoki, and possibly Root)

        1. Oh, no. Nothing against Root. But from his actions towards Sophia, we know he’s pretty ruthless and is pushing his own agenda for entertainment. It’s the sort of caution you’d treat Tomoe with if she wasn’t on Makoto’s side.

          ….But that’s besides the point. I mostly said that because Root is a troll, and it’d be bad news for everyone else if he got his way, whatever it is.

          1. Ok yeah, I can see that. And the whole ruthless thing is what I meant when I mentioned what he is. This level of ruthlessness is to be expected of something of his age and species. You just can’t help but pray that said ancient, ruthless being ISN’T an entertainment starved troll.😑

  19. Zef was wondering what could have made Makoto so unyielding, I thought, “Damn, Trashmoki is causing the demons problems without realizing it!😂”

    Thanks for the two chapters Rei-sempai!

      1. “Fortunately, I don’t think there’s an existence that is guiding his will yet.”

        Existence guiding a man’s will is probably a woman of course…this is a basic math on Royalties after all xD

        So if by any chance he gets close to a demon race girl, then he won’t bite the whole demon race.

          1. Really? I’m not sure, since someone who’s mostly just a decent person without any hidden agenda feels like they’d do better at slipping through Makoto’s guard. The natural attachment to her own race would be plenty in influencing his actions.

            …So basically a demon version of Toa, when I think about it.

          2. Yeah, pretty much. I’m just talking from the perspective of royalty (at least, how I think they’d handle it). Plus, just a bit of a joke.

        1. To be honest, befriending Makoto on an individual level would probably do wonders.

          Towards people he likes, Makoto has shown quite a bit of consideration. I laughed when he was glad he didn’t make things awkward towards Io by pointing out their first meeting while very loudly paying zero mind to Rona.

          If they establish at least a few “demon friends” for him, Makoto might still be ruthless when he needs to be, but he won’t be as unreasonable about it as they fear.

      2. we’ll now all expecr the next dream of makoto would that “choker” ans i said it in the last chapt that, that might be his next dream when it comes to demon land

      1. Except for the whole Mio thing. She herself is also a force of calamity and would not approve of some princess invading her turf. I sure hope the demons choose more of a befriending route rather than a political marriage that would definitely make Makoto uncomfortable and Mio upset.

  20. silly demons the way to get him on your side is easy
    just state that you will attempted to defeat the bug goddess and he will support you with all his power

  21. as expected for a king that can lead an 2x debuffed demon army against 4x buffed hyuman army and winning, the wisdom was so different.

  22. thanks for the chapter but the time of release is at scary level…I was just blank for a sec when realized that I skipped 1 chapter, “what? double? in such a short time?wa…huft”
    I kinda know the feeling of zef-shi though the cause is different thing.

  23. That choker thing 📯got me concerned. How they intended to do that? Marriage? 🎊Threat?……definitely no, I have no idea about the method but I definitely suggest they spend more time with him before they make any rash/stupid decision. Stay friendly with him and he’ll stay friendly with you. No thoughts 💭 of betrayal now. It may cause your entire race.

  24. Omg, the makoto of our world after finding with demon master already know that he can win even without desiring power, but I still want to know what kind of power the other makotos won by wishing (after all he had a magic that destroyed a country with 1 hit), our demon lord thinks of the totality of our MC’s power.
    Now the only thing missing is to see how makoto acted for them and their opinion of helping unless there are benefits for them still has not changed that is very good (it’s like money life does not work just because you’re good)

  25. Wow,Demon race is superior to Hyuman in all aspects.
    They are united as 1nation, they have a talented leader, even his assisstances can replace that talented one, their technologies are more advance, their information gathering is better, they have strategies. They are even better than human in term of power. Hyuman is doom…
    more over, they almost can measure the true power of Makoto even though Makoto was compress his power to the maximum extent.
    wow,no hope for hyuman if that bug didn’t descend to the world herself

  26. wow, 2 long chapters at once. thank you for the surprise reigokai!! anyway makoto is planning to defeat that bug. no wonder if his power now close to god

  27. since the demonlord guy have now beem introduced. i hope they dont mind now sending an illustrated picture of him now and its sons and daughters. oh and please include “reft” cause i want to what he looks like and think a mini version of him with io and rona on top of it

  28. I would surely like to see the images of those demons.
    Zef is really good. He barely measured Makoto and still compared him to a God. haha
    Thanks for the chapter mate! Merry Christmas!

  29. this Sem guy on how he’s described:

    (It is also the demon that secretly felt closeness to Raidou because he felt like they were glass comrades.)

    Wonder if he have glasses fetishes, then make makoto wear his glasses or maybe throw him into some brothrel full of gorgons with glasses. Wonder if he’ll blissness among one of those LOLX XD

      1. and lulu Yandereism with Mio Yandereism…… a Railgun that when fired generate blackhole that consume everything….. OH HELL NO THE WORLD WILL END and COMMON-SENSE-chan will get raped over and over again

  30. Thanks reigokai sama

    P.S:
    “I believe in Christmas and I believe you love us reigokai sama and I believe there will be a third one”

  31. Thanks for the chapter.
    If the Demon race asked or invoked the topic about “Goddess” 100% sure Makoto displease and actived his wrath.

  32. Oh my gods, thank you very much for the double gift!

    Makoto badass… and he doesn’t even notice it! XDDDDD

    Wanted to see the actual conversation though…

  33. Oooh….double chapter, u knew just what i wanted for christmas reigo-chan. Thx for the hard work.

    The demon lord is the type of lord i like. One who listens to others and makes opinions based on all factors, really hoping we dont see them as enemies any time soon

  34. Problem with the plan to put a “choker” on someone far too powerful to control or fight, is that they might be insulted by the act.

    Makoto is a pretty chill dude for the moast part, so he won’t over react, but someone else might be insulted by such a blatant attempt to control him and decide to make it clear that they will not be dancing to someone elses tune, no matter how pretty the strings are.

  35. “Raidou… how long has it been since this one has felt cold sweat. To have power that even this one can’t measure. At the very least he is stronger than a spirit. Not only a hero, his power might be close to that of a God.” (Zef)

    Welp he didn’t battle with Athena a goddess of war and knowledge ,and almost maked her to wore her full battle gear for nothing you know

  36. Thanks super Rei-san for the 2 chapters.

    It makes me laugh when Demon lord Zef said that makoto is closer for being A God lol you got that right who is a fool who are can figth on par with a Warrior Goddess Athena making her cornered lol and being advice him to continue to get stronger and do what he likes to do for example beat up that bugdess by those 3 Gods of War hahahahah =D

    1. haha i think those words of the 3 gods were just for leaving some face for Athena. the truth is Makoto can beat that bugdess to a bloody pulp anytime if he can just find the way to get to her, either flying up the sky or bringing her down to earth =)))

  37. Wow, you updated right after I went to bed. Still, I’m VERY glad that Spoiler-san is indisposed right now. He would have a field day hinting things. Anyway, thanks for the translation Reigo-senpai.

          1. Check out my WordPress. Both LGDK “Let’s Go Devil King” and LSPL “But She’s my Little Sister… from my Past Life” are both original web novels that I write.

          2. I’m not Spoiler-san, he’s just a being that possesses me to make comments in Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu. He has a back story on my WordPress as well, it’s in “Unrelated Originals”.

          3. Oh yeah. That was something I never got around to doing until I forgot about it.

            Actually, I should probably start writing out my own demented ideas at some point…

  38. But I was a normal citizen in Japan, and in this world I am a merchant, so being immediately able to cope with this type of event is impossible

    he forgot to mention that he is also a demigod

    1. Demi? Isn’t he a de facto god? Rules a world of his own making? Check. More powerful than mortal men? Check. Worshipped? Check. Respected and loved by those he rules over? Super Check. Yep. He’s a de facto god.

      1. What’s left is for people to deny his existence and blame him for their own shortcomings and failures. ….ofh wait that is real life religion.

  39. Well the Demon Lord is a sharp one, already realiza that Raido is out of the sharts. But really put a choker in susch a dangerous existence they are making a huge gamble and if he finds out that thats their plan they can ruin any chance of copariting. Well it seems that Tomoki did something good for a change, making Makoto realiza that he needs to stand strong on things.

    1. I’ve got a feeling that this choker would either be nulled by makoto or they would use some cliche stuff(i.e. Marrying off one of the demon lord’s people, taking the heroes as hostages, threatening the Makoto’s company(lol), etc.)

      1. They’re going to take the least dangerous path. Remember, they’ve recognized that a single wrong move could have Makoto erase them, they’re not going to threaten him with that mindset, it’s like trying to tiptoe through a mine field.

      2. They would never threaten him. Simply speaking, with this chapter, they would not do so. Nobody with a half sane mind would do so if they had the same discussion that happened(not waking the sleeping dragon and such) The choker would likely be something that will make him go “I want to do this” rather than “I have to do this or . else…” Marriage is both likely and unlikely. If marriage is proposed, with the importance of MC it’d likely be either the daughter of the demon king(Kinda felt that flow from when he wanted to introduce his children) or a proposal to Mio or Shiki(What I would do in the situation) because in terms of negotiations, MC holds both the candy and the whip while the demons hold neither. Thus, they would not propose an overly condescending marriage. He may even want to give his children to mio and shiki(No proof or indication. I would do it in this situation though. The feeling of going for PM instead of kinw with martial relations when said king is in an infinetly favorable position) I have a feeling it won’t be cliche tho… The chars in this manga are surprisingly smart(Some of them at least(Tomoe, shiki, root. Honorable mention: lily)) Even some weird curveball about getting themselves attacked was seen through by Shiki, so if the demons pull something stupid, Ima chuck ma phone. Marraige is possible but not probable. Threats are impossible.

        Yeah, I’m a fun guy at parties. Don’t even mention it.

      3. Is not a literally choker they are talking about something for keep at least a hold of him. Most likely is going to be make him fall in love with a member of the demon race, precisely because they cant use the force is the most safe path left, Bisides PM where always like that for avoid wars o fight among countrys or clans is not wierd if they choose these of course Makoto is not going to fall, the only one left will be send a member from the demon and make become his student using his own words against him. After all Makoto trained hyumans and amongs them more than one wanted to become part of the armys.

  40. Well, he is standing on an equal grou and even can hold long enough again Ancient God of War Athena, so sure is he is the force to rekoned with.
    And agian, thanks for the double releash.

      1. “he got stronger too, due to the other two(gods)’s gift to him” no he is not, not yet.
        we dont know what exactly what the gift is, so as the story pregress and the gift thing actually didn’t do any change/different.

        *im aware about the “dream” thing that makato had, but it’s still not a power that could boost your battle spec in real/actual battle.

      2. The dreams do not boost battle spec directly but does give hints on how to do so. Although his Sekai ability is different than his other selves due to Tomoe’s contract, the basic function still remains. One Makoto hinted at creating a microwave field and the other showed amplification of charm and terrain changes. These are unique applications of Sekai that the current Makoto does not use or are unlikely to ever come up with due to environment but are exposed to him through alternate selves

  41. Thanks for the chapter. Honestly I think among all the plans the choker one is the best since its like just sending someone under makoto to somehow understand makoto better while also letting makoto understand them better thus making him sympathize more on the demons side. At least its better than not getting ANY interactions with makoto thus knowing what could trigger the stronger than a nuke demi god from attacking them.

      1. Well that is indeed possible. I think they’ll just observe the situation for now until they find out more about makoto. Any of the 4 plans have risks on them and returns. I think the most dangerous would be rushia’s plan since not knowing what could trigger makoto and being “hostile” to him is the worse possible path

    1. I was thinking something similar. A lot of people seem to think that it will be a marriage proposal but that is unlikely to go through. What I think is most likely is a vassal proposal. An offer to place someone in his inner circle to help him develop the company in Demon Country. If they insist on forcing that person to be in a pact with Raido (because of the benefits it would give both parties) then they would acquire a lot for the cost of something relatively little. And with Raido being Raido it is unlikely that the new party member will have anything bad happen to them. That way they get a voice in the room (something no other country has) while being respectful and gain more information about the true strength of the company.

      It’s that or land. Some offer of free mechantile rights in the country without having to pay a tax. Make a good portion of the Company’s income come from Demons and Raido will want to protect them just to save his bottom dollar. This does have drawbacks within the country itself as well as not giving Zef any room to maneuver, but it would help set Raido’s goal in preservation of demons and make it less likely he will turn against demons until they act first.

      1. Yhea~ every body forgot that they could send or give his daughter to him as a slave right? There’s probably slavery system there? Can’t remember correctly~
        So basically. Demon king gives daughter which is highly likely since she is smart to study makoto.
        One of the many ways is being his slave. Marraige is out since we know He does’nt have the balls to accept it with Mio in tow.
        And lets wait in dec 29 too see if he would have a dream about this or not. Since we know the decision/actions He does in the demon territory could & would affect Asora as a Whole that or lose someone important.

  42. Thanks for the chapter and hope you had a good christmas Reigokai!

    “At the Empire, before I could get nervous, there were a lot of events going on, and Tomoki served as a good stress relieve. Well, he made it possible for me to use him that way.”

    Trashmoki was actually……useful?!!!!

    That aside, interesting chapter. It’s was surprisingly peaceful so far, though they did mention that Mio would get reckless when necessary, so we might have something to look forward to in the next chapter or too. As for the choker……am I the only one expecting them to try and set him up with someone? IE, make him care about the demon race and hesitate to attack them if something happens, by having him fall in love with one? Is that Sari girl going to try and seduce him? With this flow it’d have to be a member of the Demon Lord’s family for the strongest connection. Maybe I’m just imagining things though.

    The one thing that bothered me, was Makoto mentioning the demon race being made by the Bug. Was that true? I can’t quite remember now where everything was explain by either Tomoe or Root, but I’m sure the demi humans, dragons and such were there before the Bug came along and added the hyumans. Did she make the demons too? I’m vaguely thinking something about them being a first try she wasn’t satisfied with before she settled on hyumans? Do I have to go reread the series to be sure……..

    1. The goddess prefer the hyumans since they are her attempt to create humans, but as a creation Goddess she created the other races the only exception I think are the Superior Dragons and their kin. In one of the extras when its explained why Makoto parents leaved that world is confirmed that she indeed created the Demon race.

      1. Is that how it is? I guess I was misunderstanding something. Since the demihumans aren’t all beautiful and vary in attractiveness like humans do, I was sure she hadn’t created them.
        Maybe I should reread the series any way. Refresh my memory on things.

      2. Shoot, is that how it went?

        Guess I’m rereading the story again. I was under the impression that it was just the goddess lying and that demons were also original residents.

    2. the hyumans are her “sucessful” creation, one to her liking, and other like demi humans and demons are the “failed” ones, on her point of view obvious.

  43. great chapter! i wonder how the demon’s opinion would change if they knew exactly how much Makoto hated the Goddess who is also their enemy.

    1. Makoto hates Goddess, but i wonder that it reached the point that he wants to murder her though … even if they relationship reached the Demon side, it only be : those two not in a good terms with each others

  44. “Tomoki served as a good stress relieve. Well, he made it possible for me to use him that way.”
    After a stressful day dealing with the kings, demon lord and bug goddess, Raidou-sama called out Tomoki, punched him for a while before gone to his bed with his wife and concubine…

      1. Nah. From the conversation of Sazanami appraisal of Root VS Makoto. Its Clear who was stronger.

        And Root actually tried out Makoto’s technique of “Wearing” magical power and he barely was able to utilize it for 10 seconds where Makoto seem to be able to supply it endlessly.

        Considering what Makoto mentioned about how his Magic Capacity increases everytime he does his Kyuudo routine. His Magic Power has already transcend to the levels of Gods. Superior Dragon? Not worth a mention.

  45. You know? Makoto is gonna get an earful when he reports to Ema.

    Ema : thanks for your report Waka-sama. I just have one issue

    Makoto: what is it?

    Ema: I’m absolutely positive I taught you proper diplomatic etiquette. Did you forget something so important Makoto-sama?

    Makoto: Well I’m not a feudal lord in outside of Asora so I don’t feel that it was appropriate.

    Ema: Too Naive Makoto-sama. You are undoubtedly in a position of power where it can be applied. Makoto-sama you have seized and secured a country. You must learn to conduct yourself more appropriately as befitting of your significant status.

    Makoto: …sorry.

    Ema: As long as you understand.

    Eva: Is he really the master?

    Ema: Now Waka-sama I have some reports that need your attention.

    Yep. Oh.. the demon race has a conversion collar, huh. That won’t end well for them. Makoto is certainly becoming better at dealing with these things. Probably his new mindset combined with Ema’s influence.

    1. i can totally see that conversation happening, then add glasses to Emma and Makoto in seiza position and you have the hole picture.

    2. Although interesting, I really can’t see Ema lecturing Makoto on something like this. In the previous chapter about building a country from the ground up, the residents of Asora acknowledge that Makoto does not know how to build a country and are fine with it. They compare Eva and him and mention his absolute power and kindness and that due to that overwhelming power to bulldoze any opposition he is fine as he is. In fact looking back at it most of Asora’s maintenance is not done by Makoto , the exceptions being when foreign fruits appear and letting new species in due to his otherworldly knowledge and cause he is the owner of the land

      1. Etiquette is different from building a country and Ema does hold Makoto to standards. The residents hold him in high esteem but he’s a god to them. Of course he can get away with bulldozing. But as the one closest to him, without a contract, Ema has the freedom to lecture him.

    1. XDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

      … well, that certainly applies to Yoraikun… that one is a full god already lol

  46. Thx for the chapter o/
    great to see how the demons think and what they though of Kuzunoha, i realy liked the Maou and i am curious to how they are gonna treat Makoto

  47. Thanks for the double chapter! Now, I d9nt k don’t know what i was expecting, but i feel a bit disappointed by the meeting. They have been talking about for so long I wanted something bigger. But it’s not over yet!

  48. Personal thought (with slight bias due to reading ahead before): Sari’s analysis of Makoto is accurate.

    In a way, those ‘dreams’ earlier reflected this as well.

    In the first dream with Hibiki is likely Makoto alone against the world, he went wild and destroy any/everything.
    In the second dream, Lily became his guidance, and even after her death he still kept acting towards her desire of bringing down the hyumans, as well as Bug.

    And now Tomoe, Mio and Shiki are his guides, but they also are his followers. This causes a looping relationship where he himself relies on their opinions but at the same time them being his followers will always put their will below his, acting as something of a fence against the wrong paths while letting him walk the path he wants.
    So that he doesn’t stray into madness like the first dream.
    Nor become tool to cunning character like the second.
    Or what happened in the 3rd dream…

    Though now I want Sari’s POV chapter (I wonder if the LN have it) after this arc is over.

  49. ERROR ???
    I’m not sure if its right or wrong (Eng is not my native language) but its fell a little out of place
    “…Raidou didn’t show strong any strong will … ”
    Maybe
    “…Raidou didn’t show any strong will …” (I’m not saying this is the right phase)

    Changing the the talk
    Zef is one of my favorites, in future you will start to respect (even more) him

    1. Forgot the second possibility
      “…Raidou didn’t clearly show any strong will … ”
      I have see the raw but its up to Rei how he will interpret the JP
      I don’t think is wrong just fell strange

  50. The two had a difference in height like that of Akua and Eris.

    was this reference to konosuba or theres some other story i didnt know about. i just cant understand help pls

  51. So after thinking on it some more, I think the best leash for Makoto would indeed be some sort of “morality pet” type of character. Someone who would at least keep him from going wild even if he gets mad.

    That said, marriage is…complicated. In that case…isn’t a small child-type of character like Rinon the most effective at getting to his heart quickly and effectively?

    1. Well yeah, the story definitely shows the demon race as objectively better. They are kinder, more intelligent, less racial discrimination and see the Goddess for who she really is. They also only fight when they have to, for survival. Their power-based meritocracy is also more admirable than the hyuman governments.

  52. Demon Lord Zef: I have a good plan.
    Sari: father, what are you planing ?
    Demon Lord Zef: Sari, you should seduce Raidou and try to have his child and than marry him. he won’t become our enemy if you do this but we should also make sure not to provoke him. at least he won’t side with hyumans and attack us if you have his child and he might even help us in order to protect his wife.
    Sari: I’ll try my best, father. I wonder how powerful that child will be? if I have his child, I’ll try to make him take responsibility and marry me.

    Hey, what do you think about this setting?

    1. Totally posible but I don’t think that Makoto follower like Tomoe and Shiki will let him fall in such a simple trap, and I’m sure Mio will guard his bed like Fort Knox!!!!

    2. Only problem I have is that Makoto has a whole harem of strong women who would shank anyone who would try that even if it’s a Demon Lord’s daughter.

      That said, I would really like some sort of demon addition to the team, even if it’s just an employee.

    3. Having a wife or any kind of follower/ companion is possible but at same time improbable. Any companion would function as a collar but the issue is sincerity. Anyone who becomes his companion with ulterior motives will make Makoto their enemy. Case in point, Rona.

  53. Problem with the choker plan is that it is a huge gamble.
    Someone less well adjusted than Makoto might feel insulted from simple attempt to limit his independence, and retaliate.
    Especially if it is something obvious like offering a princess in marriage, or trying to have someone seduce them (not only do they try to limit my independence, they also think me a moron?).

    Better idea would be to move slowly, try to get to friendly terms with Makoto and find out what hs goals are and then make sure you are never, ever, in the way of those goals, and preferably are actually helping him with those goals.

  54. All those comments referencing the choker. Damn, I’m late to the party.

    Anyway, I’m betting on Sari playing that role, or at least trying.

    I seem to recall that she is the only one of Zef’s children to declare that she does not intend to inherit the throne, but would rather support whoever does (I might be remembering wrong). This should make it easier for her than the others to get closer to Makoto, since she’s not approaching him as a future Demon Lord.

    I also doubt they would choose anyone other than one of Zef’s children. They would want someone with the highest standing, so as not to risk insulting Makoto.

    The question is, will they outright propose a marriage, or will it start out with Sari acting as a representative of the Demons to Kuzunoha?

    Personally I’d prefer the latter. Having her start as a representative, and then slowly grow closer to Makoto, as she gets to know him better.

    The next question would be, would she eventually form a contract with Makoto, or is it already too late for anyone to be able to do so, because of Makoto’s overwhelming power? That’s of course assuming she’d be willing to try. After all, by forming a contract with Makoto she would be pledging allegiance to him, which means putting his interests before the Demons’. That would be contrary to her objective.

    Then again, if she spends time with Makoto and eventually grows closer to him, I can see her considering it. Especially when she finds out that Makoto doesn’t ever use the contract to make Tomoe, Mio or Shiki act against their will, so she might see it as the only way to gain his complete trust, and therefore be better able to help the Demons.

    And finally, how would Tomoe, and especially Mio, respond to her? I doubt they’d actually do anything, but there would certainly be sparks flying. Mio accepted (or at least came to an understanding with) Tomoe, but I doubt she’d let anyone else get close to Makoto.

      1. Action Adventure Comedy Drama Fantasy Romance Slice of Life – novel updates There is romance in the genre on novel updates… of course I feel it sometimes changed.. I could have sworn I’ve seen it have harem listed as well sometimes. Makoto is beginning to acknowledge Mio as a woman. It may be pretty far in, but look how long it took Naofumi to return anyone’s feelings in “The Rising of the Shield Hero”.

      2. oh theres romance now?? ive read this whole novel and theres not a speck of romance in here once. Did the genre got added by the author? well i dont mind, since it spice things up here and now and hoped that those left over love on earth would come reaching on makoto soon

      3. there will be “romance” in the future though there isn’t many cute moments between he and she but when it does it’s cute

    1. I don’t see anymore contracts considering the relation of power level and the nature of contracts. Considering Makoto’s current power level and him continuing to purposely grow to be able to fight the Bug, Makoto’s power should be too high to make a contract without erasing the other party’s mind

      1. I’m still hoping there will eventually be some sort of modified contract that let’s Makoto do it towards multiple people at once.

        If he suppresses himself hard enough and gives all of Asora rings like with Shiki, I could see some sort of contract that’s more akin to general worship towards a guardian deity.

  55. Thanks for the chapter. Listen to the whole Demon royal family talk reminded something similar one of those intense political drama shows.

  56. Oh~ Then as hinted, this Maou-sama is actually a good lord ?…Tch ! Where is my big-breasted, beautiful, with a 95% rate of exposure, demon lord ?!?!

    They did quite a good job when analysing MC-chan, especially that chibi demon !
    So they want to put him a collar ? Hope this collar take the form of a well endowed docile demon maid ! AHAHAHAHAHAHAH !
    Actually, I think the choker thing was about a wife or at least a concubine, however that Maou-sama doesn’t sounds like the kind of guy that would give up a friend, let alone forcing his daughter to a political marriage.
    I am more inclined to a demon companion to befriend MC.

    Thanks for your work !

  57. What they meant is that they need to put in someone who act as liason of good will by Raidou side, so that he doesnt act without them knowing about it. Choker is not for control, but for warning. You shouldnt think of it as slave’s choker, but a cat’s bell.

    The further meaning is that she think that choker is also as honey trap, AND a method to counter hyuman’s similar choker. Rona did think of it way earlier, and Shiki did warn her of the danger of trying to seduce Raidou.

  58. Eh? Makoto has still not returned the poor degenerated general yet? I thought for sure that is what he will do first, guess I was wrong.

  59. *whistle~*

    This chapter feels so good~

    This make thing a lot more interesting, seeing that Zef had cold sweat running down on his face(?)

    Really happy for this chapter~

    Thanks~

    1. I highly doubt it, while the demons are scheming they are doing so to protect their people they won’t cross the line.A simple comparison between Hibiki and Zef first meeting with Makoto shows that the demons are more rational than hyumans and the “choker” to keep Makoto on check could easily be a political marriage or a hostage from the demons.

  60. I’m actually impressed here, while the demons are indeed trying to see if they can have Makoto join or aid them, they’re smart enough to study him and instantly realize that any thought that they can eliminate him is foolish. Compared to the ignorance of the hyumans derived from their over dependence on the goddess’ blessing/curse and Root’s level system, that they think he’s on a quantifiable level to possibly overcome.

    Now it’s a question to what kind of “yoke” they plan to use, probably a political marriage route.

    1. Hint / spoiler(kinda):
      Will be something unexpected, maybe.
      Being clear, I’m not saying it will be/not a marriage, you will find out late (will take few chapter)
      By the way Makoto is not the kind of guy that will take hostages (it don’t fit his type and he don’t need to do), he to much OP to use this tactical (however Shiki may think of use it), that is my personal opinion about this point

  61. Thx for the chapters 😀
    I didnt thx or comment, just liked, for these 3 chapters til now because I wanted to read them & was unwilling to de lol at the reading 👹👍
    Thx again for the duden burst of Xmas chapters. This is my current favorite web novel. I would enjoy reading & adding to the comments if I had the time for reading script that’s 5x the length of each chapter lol 😆

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