Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The ground was soaked in the smell of blood. 'Deon' stopped his minutely shaking hands from trembling as he stood up.

Another day, another dozen lives he's ended with his own two hands. He was so goddamn tired.

As if that wasn't enough, his unit was assigned to clean-up duty. He hated it, he hated it so much. Those dead, lifeless eyes were staring up at him, as though they were asking why it was him and not them who got to live.

'Deon' didn't have an answer- No, he did. But they would have done the same to him, if it meant they would live, so he didn't feel guilty he felt guilty. At least he was alive weak and useless him. Perhaps he would be gone the next day and his parents could finally release the breath they'd clearly been holding all along.

He refused to waste his thoughts on them further as they slowly progressed. They weren't worth it He wasn't worth it.

The battlefield had been right next to a forest, which had only made everything more chaotic. Careful of enemy soldiers still remaining inside that could attack them, they began their work among the trees.

“Captain!”, Cletter shouted from a distance away, grandly waving his arm in 'Deon's' direction, “We're done here!”

He nodded in acknowledgment, about to turn to help elsewhere when a rustle from the nearby bushes startled him. Tense, he crouched down and removed the dagger from his thigh, signaling the others to be quiet as he made his way over.

His unit slowly followed his lead, ready to pounce on the enemy hiding away.

He fully closed the distance and sprang up, grabbing the enemies hair and aiming his dagger downward. He barely changed its trajectory from the neck to the ground as the resulting force caused him to topple over and land right beside his weapon's initial victim.

“Captain!”The others were hectic as they lost their composure and ran to him without regard for ambushes. He held up a hand to stop them.

Looking at him from above was a child.

After a chaotic minute of his unit collapsing on top of him due to being unable to stop in time, detangling himself and freeing the kid from being crushed under Milan, he put the child back down while the reorganized soldiers formed a fascinated circle around them.

Deon was pretty sure they would be poking at the kid with sticks if they had any, the lunatics. He shot them a glare before focusing back on the child.

It wasn't that he wasn't curious, perhaps he was even more so than them. The small boy might as well have been a carbon copy of him. From the short white hair to the strikingly red eyes, even his skin was paler than the average person.

For a moment he had the illusion of looking in a mirror.

These big, pitiful eyes were staring at him in wonder and without the least bit of suspicion, despite the carnage that had occurred not too long ago. Perhaps it was because 'Deon' had stopped his attack in time. He wasn't sure.

“What's your name?”, Deon observed him closer. The child had a few scrapes but nothing serious. The clothes were stained with mud and clearly worn out. A short stint to the doctor and a change of clothes and he would be fine.

The kid shuffled his feet under the attention, glancing at the ground and back up at Deon before answering, “Deceiver.”

Deon's face cracked, 'Who the heck named you?' Who would call a child that!

He nearly said that out loud. He took a deep breath, “Thank you for telling me. Mind answering a few more questions?” The child nodded, so he slowly stretched out his hand and patted the child's head, “Where's your home? How did you get here?”

Deceiver visibly drooped and began to tear up, “I- I don't know. I was... -was just wandering around. Papa-” He started to full on sob as he broke down in tears, “My parents- my parents don't want me... *sob* They just abandoned me, Papa- Papa- Father always avoided me and- and then...”

“It's okay, it's okay.” Deon panicked as he awkwardly patted the child's back, trying to comfort him, “I'm sorry, you don't have to force yourself to tell me, it's alright-”

“Waaaah-” The child suddenly clung to Deon and burrowed into his shoulder. Deon let him.

This child was pitiful just like him. He was abandoned by his parents just like him. His parents hated him just like him. They didn't care whether he died just like him. Maybe they wanted him to die just like he was never supposed to survive.

They spend the next few minutes like this, with the young commander pitifully trying to comfort the poor child while the rest stood by, making some clumsy comforting noises from time to time.

So that's how they returned to their base, bawling kid held by the most terrifying commander yet and his murderous dogs hanging around them like clumsy maids that broke their master's favorite porcelain vase.

Nemeseus wondered if slapping himself would be worth it. Alas, salvation never comes.

Deon noticed the general standing over there and went right over, “General.”

“Commander Hardt...” What was he even supposed to say? “Where did you get that... kid?”

The younger man pretended not to feel the glare that was directed at him why did the General hate him so?, “We found him hiding in the forest. He was abandoned by his parents and wandered too far off.”

Deceiver clutched Deon's stained uniform when Nemeseus turned to look at him. Deon lightly patted his back to reassure him.

The commander flinched as Nemeseus sighed, “We can't take care of a child, commander.”

He swallowed, “We will send him back with the next supply run, he can stay with me until then.” The small body in his arms stiffened, he pretended not to notice.

“Commander-”

“Please”

Nemeseus stilled at the heartbroken look on Deon's face. He was once again reminded that the man he was facing... was not a man at all. He was also a child. He was only 16.

And this child... he probably saw a reflection of himself in him.

His heart hang heavy as he forced out his next words, “Okay.” He took a deep breath, “You are responsible for him. Don't let this affect your duties.”

“Yes, General!”

They led the child to get patched up and the smallest of their unit lend him a shirt to wear instead of the rags he had. Unfortunately, the trousers had to stay for now. It had gotten rather late, so Deon put him to sleep in his bed before assembling with the rest of his unit outside for an impromptu meeting.

He wondered if they were mad at him, having selfishly taken the child under his wing, so he was dumbstruck when he found them cooing about the sleeping child.

“Did you see how cute he was? Clinging to the captain like that, I mean-”

“Yes. He looks like he's what? 6? You think the Captain looked that adorable when he was young? He ought to, they're practically identical-”

“More importantly, you saw these squishy cheeks, I wanna poke them, so adorable!”

'Are they kids?' Deon wondered whether this was actually his unit or a bunch of impostor doing a piss poor job.

They finally seemed to notice him, Milan nervously chuckled, “Ah, Captain! You- ...you didn't hear that, right...?”

“Hear what?” Just play dumb, play dumb.

There was a collective sigh of relief as Milan scratched his neck, “Nothing important. Just some idle chatter. How's the kid?”

“He's asleep.” He looked at the shortest, “Thank you for the shirt.”

“It's no problem!” The other was quick to assure, “I'm happy to be of help.”

Milan coughed, putting attention back to himself, “That- are we keeping him?”

“We can't keep him.” Deon shot back, “Remember where we are, he's a child. He doesn't belong here.” He ignored the sad looks they shot his way, “I'll take care of him and send him off with the supply run next week. There ought to be a village that can take him in.”

There was a moment of silence before Cletter broke it, “Do we know where specifically he came from? If he ends up back where he came from, it won't be good.”

“That's right!” Another piped up, “Did you hear how he stopped saying 'Papa' and replaced it with 'Father'? Not to mention that he felt the need to change the address, if I had a kid, I wouldn't want them to call me 'Father', it's so- so- distant !”

“Right, what about his mother?”

“Probably not worth mentioning.” Someone chimed, pulling a grimace, “Must be just as bad. He did say his parents abandoned him, so not just his good-for-nothing 'father'.”

“...Won't he think we're abandoning him, too?” Cletter whispered. No one could speak as an uncomfortable stillness entered the conversation.

“...” Deon clenched his shaking fist and shut his eyes tightly, his next words stinging painfully in his throat, “Thinking we abandoned him is better than dying.”

The next supply run came and went. There was a landslide that scared the horses and the goods had to be brought the rest of the way by hand. As they were too tired and the way was too steep, they refused to take the child with them.

Next time, they encountered bandits. The soldiers had to meet them at the site of the incident and obviously they can't take a child along to under such circumstances.

The one after that, all the workers got a cold and did not dare cause the child to have one, too.

The incidents kept piling up. In short, Deceiver was staying for at least a while.

Deon wondered if the poor kid was cursed.

When a particularly suicidal commander of another unit suggested they put the kid on the battlefield to curse their enemies, everyone tactfully agreed not to let the General know why the man was sporting a broken nose the next day. Or that the white-haired commander needed some bandages for his hand.

That didn't mean Nemeseus wasn't aware, he just decided to pretend to be ignorant. Deon was a conscripted soldier and had a duty to fight, the kid hadn't. Even if Nemeseus tried to get Deon to stay away from the action, as evidenced by reality, someone was clearly not in accord.

In the end, the next six years flew by like that and the war was finally over.

In the end, Deon knelt in front of the emperor, a long suppressed hatred flashing in his eyes with rekindled fire.

Chapter Text

He heard it when they were returning to the capital.

The whispers, the insults. Saw the glances thrown. It made Deon want to take Deceiver and bundle him up in his cloak and hide him from the world.

He loathed how they stared at the child's pale features, speaking as if he were an inhuman creature just as they had once done to Deon. Perhaps it was because Deceiver was still young but it seemed to give them the illusion they could hurt him. Rid the world of evil.

As though he wasn't human. As if neither Deceiver nor Deon were, but Deon knew he was human. He couldn't be more human.

He had been damned to bleed and fear like any other on the battlefield to prove it and he'd be damned if anyone tried to do the same to his child.

It was fine if they were looking down on him, if they thought he was disgusting but that they'd look at Deceiver like that was unforgivable. It made him want to stab their eyes out.

It hurt that people hated him, that his parents hated him.

He didn't want the child to suffer not like he did.

So when he knelt in front of the Emperor, he stomped on the surging hatred in his heart.

“Your Majesty.” It wouldn't stop the glances, wouldn't stop the words but it would make everyone think twice, “I found a child on the frontlines. He is my family.”

And now, no one would be allowed to claim otherwise.

The mansion was grand. But at least it was his. His own home. There were no memories and no bygone 'family' to sully his mood.

Deceiver was his only family.

The patted the child's head and got a puzzled look in return. Deon smiled at him. Yes, this was his new home with his new family. They could both have a fresh start.

“Do you want to go out to play?”

Deceiver's eyes sparkled, “Yes!”

The Emperor felt that Deon's request was too little for his achievements, so he gifted him this mansion along with the title of Honorary Count when Deon refused any association with his family.

Quite frankly, he wasn't sure what achievements the Emperor was talking about. Sure, he was part of the vanguard but he didn't do all that much. The only blood on his hands was from killing men who thought that murdering a defenseless child would be worth it.

It was hard and even now he despised looking at his own hands but at least his little didi was alive.

Deceiver's death wouldn't have an impact on anyone but him. There was no one else who would care about him. Maybe his now former unit would, but they were all crazy, so Deon wasn't sure.

Pulling himself away from his own thoughts, he looked at Deceiver who was admiring the flowers in the front garden.

He looked at the flowers as well, “Do you like them?”

The child nodded, “Yeah. Here-” He picked up a red one, “For Dad!”

“Thank you.” He accepted the flower, “My little Didi is the best.” He took a look around and picked out a flower himself, “Then this one is for you.”

The child received the flower and hid his smile behind the petals. The black color contrasted greatly with his pale features but it symbolized so much more to the pair. A secret that only a few people knew.

“Dad!” Deceiver tugged at his hand, “I want to go eat out today, can we?”

“Of course.”

The child hugged Deon tightly with a beaming smile. It occasionally made Deon forget that Deceiver was already 12 and not the small 6 year old they found back then. He wanted to lift him up but he had already grown too heavy and Deon was too weak to attempt it anyway.

When Deceiver finally let go, they made their way to one of the restaurants. Deon had never eaten out himself so he was just as new to this as his son was. He ignored all the stares directed their way as he paid for a private room and went inside.

He took off his hood and mask and grabbed the menu lying on the table, putting it between Deceiver and himself so they could both read. He found what he wanted rather quickly, so he ended up watching the child choose.

It was incredibly adorable watching him be so serious about food. But Deon didn't discourage him. It was their first non-military meal in literal years, nearly a decade for Deon, so where could he have the heart to disturb him?

In the end, whether by coincidence or not, they both chose the same meal and even ended up eating some cake as dessert. Deon carefully wiped the crumbs from his child's mouth, who took this as a chance to nuzzle his dad's hand.

His face softened considerably in return. His little family truly was the most precious thing.

Yet good times could never last.

It hadn't even been a month since their return when Deon was summoned into the palace.

“The Hero is going on an adventure to kill the Demon King.” The Emperor spoke slowly, his demeanor calm and steady, as though they were discussing something else entirely “Why don't you accompany him?”

'Deon' found it incredulously funny he was phrasing it as a question when it wasn't one.

The young man was holding Deceiver's shoulders and looked him in the eyes, his own full of worry, “Remember to eat regularly, okay?”

“...I will.”

Deon looked at the dejected child and cupped his cheek, “I'll be fine, I'll be back before you know it.” He looked at the knights watching them from the sidelines and attempted to joke, “The Lofty Knights will protect you. You haven't forgotten them yet, right?”

It didn't improve the child's mood at all, “...Okay.”

“...” Deon sighed, hugged him and let the child burrow into his chest, “This isn't the first time I've been in trouble. Even if nothing else, I'll come back alive for you.”

“If you don't come back I'll- I'll-” Deceiver sniffed, “I'll hate you forever!”

“Well, I can't let my little Didi hate me, can I?”

No matter how Deon assured him, Deceiver refused to calm down, even trying to convince Deon to take him along. It was the first time in a while the child was giving him a headache.

But it's not like Deon couldn't understand. He didn't want to leave either. He wondered why exactly it had to be him. Who influenced the Emperor? What did he do to make the world hate him so much? It had to be his parents.

He was still ruminating on it by the time the Hero's party made it to the border to the Demon Realm. He took a deep breath as they crossed over. From now on his life and death would be unclear. He was no longer dealing with humans, he was dealing with an unknown threat.

He missed Deceiver. Hell, he even missed those crazy mad dogs. He missed the military barracks. There was no place worse than this realm teeming with monsters.

You could see a human army coming, you could hear them. You could know how humans would act in any conceivable situation but monsters moved on instinct alone. There was no hesitation and no remorse.

There was seemingly no thought process behind any of their actions.

Their number alone made any knowledge of their coming useless and the way they fought was so different to humans that 'Deon', who only had to occasionally fight them in small numbers on the battlefield, had no idea how to fight them.

But he learned quickly. He learned how to fight the inhuman in this place that was neither heaven nor hell. He promised his child he'd survive, so he couldn't fall here, he couldn't.

The only relief was that he needn't wear either hood nor mask. There was no sunlight to hurt him here.

It was a long time before they finally made it close to the Demon King's castle. 'Deon' wasn't sure how to tell the time with only three moons to accompany their journey. He assumed there to be some sort of way to tell the passing of time as they moved slightly but he did not have the luxury to pay too much attention, so he left that matter aside.

Deon observed his companions... or, at the very least, what remained of them. They had lost many to the waves of monsters and those that were left were not without injuries. In fact, Deon was the least injured person present beside the Hero.

He nervously adjusted the red jeweled brooch holding his cape in place.

“Sir Hardt,” the Hero caught his attention as everyone prepared for the final battle, “Please remain here.”

Deon was dumbfounded, “...What?”

The Hero's expression didn't change, “I'm serious. I will finish this battle along with the Empire's troops.”

Deon felt guilty at the relief that came washing over him, “But...”

The Hero rested his hand on his shoulder, “You've done enough. This Demon King is known to be the strongest in history, so I can't guarantee your survival.”

Despite the fact that he didn't smile, the Hero's expression gave an illusion of it. He was calm and unfazed. It had an alienating gentleness to it.

“We also need someone to report the results to the Empire. I would like you to fulfill that role, Sir Hardt. Please go back.” He seemed relieved when Deon bowed his head in acquiescence, “...You also have something you need to do while you're alive, right?”

Deon thought about Deceiver, who was still waiting for him, and couldn't find the words to refute him.

The Hero seemed to mistake his silence for something else as he continued, “...I know why a previous war hero such as yourself is coming along on this adventure. It's because you need a greater achievement to fulfill your 'wish', right?”

That wasn't it- Deon never wanted to come here. As long as he could stay with Deceiver, nothing else mattered not even revenge. He didn't want to fight anyone or anything he just wanted to be loved.

It wasn't his choice. It never was. It never mattered what Deon wanted or thought. Everyone always just assumed things about him. Even the Hero.

Why couldn't anyone see Deon and not only the Deon they thought he was.

The Hero, unaware of his companion's thoughts, kept talking, “If you return with the results, it will be a great achievement. Anyways, if even the achievements you accomplished in a war weren't enough to grant your wish, just what did you ask for?” The man looked thoughtful and half-joked, “Not an entire nation, right?”

“No, that...” He really didn't want anything. “I-”

The Hero patted his shoulder and turned around, “It's okay. Tell me about it when I return.” He smiled, “...I'll be back.”

When he left, Deon thought that the Hero's face appeared to be extremely tired.

Deon had thought it would be fine. He would just be checking on the progress of the battle and hide again. He should at least do that much. He thought he hid himself quite well in the bushes on a cliff above. He didn't even make much noise despite the shock he received when he saw the state of the battlefield.

It was over, the Hero lost and was going to self-destruct-

And Deon was found by a demon. This wasn't the battlefield, there was no one else here and this wasn't even a good position for archers, not that they brought any.

All thoughts went out the window when the demon took a swing at him. 'Deon' dodged as fast as he could yet had to dodge again as the next attack rained down. He ignored the stinging pain on his face as he whipped out his dagger.

Using his smaller body to his advantage, he slid under the ogre's body and used it's leg as a springboard. Using what strength he had, he plunged the dagger into his enemies throat but it wasn't enough. 'Deon' cursed his weak body as he tried to think of another way end this quickly.

There was an audible crack before they started falling. The cliff had broken under the ogre's weight.

“Shit...!” 'Deon' was just a squishy human, he wouldn't survive this fall, “GOD DAMN IT!”

Chapter Text

They landed with a bang as the resulting force flung earth and debris into their surroundings. 'Deon' shakily stood upright, surprised at his own survival.

The jewel on his brooch shone slightly before losing its luster. Beset with the realization that he had landed amidst enemy forces, he did not notice this small change. At least the Ogre was dead.

“Th- The 7^th Corps Commander...! Who the hell is that human?!”

'He was the 7^th Corps Commander?!', 'Deon's' eyes shook. He killed their Commander right in front of them?! He's screwed, completely and utterly screwed!

He froze when he made eye contact with the entity standing in front of all the other demons. Ice flooded through his veins.

The Demon King.

He was staring him down like wanted to kill him. He just had to kill the demon's subordinate right in front of him! How was 'Deon' supposed to deal with this...!

“Ugh..!” 'Deon' was forcefully pulled out of his thoughts by a cough, “De...on.”

He twisted his body to look at the defeated Hero, the glow of self-destruction still shining on his body, “...Hero...”

The Hero struggled to maintain his state, “What are you doing here...?” He coughed harshly, “You already knew that I was going to self-destruct, so why did you come...?”

'Deon' jumped down from the corpse and approached the dying man with guilt, “I'm sorry. I wanted to fulfill my duty-”

He had no other intention than to confirm the outcome of the battle he was supposed to be reporting back. Landing here and disturbing the Hero's plan wasn't what he expected to happen always such a nuisance.

“You... really...” The Hero gripped 'Deon's' shoulders tightly, trying to keep himself upright, “I really hoped that at least you would survive...”

The glow around him faded and 'Deon' realized he'd stopped the self-destruction. He could hear the Hero start whispering, clearly out of strength.

“World... are you watching? ...This is my last request, so please let that man live.” The Hero started shining brightly as a vortex of wind and light enveloped them. Glowing hands grasped 'Deon's' own, bringing them together as the light seemed to float into 'Deon' instead, “Please... let him have at least one fragment...”

There was another, brighter and grander flash that was so intense it blinded everyone in the vicinity.

'Deon' felt something hit his chest and he instinctively held it, knowing it was the Hero's body. He squashed down his feelings and mentally chided the Hero for his futile actions. He tried to feel any change in his body as he gently laid the man down, but there was none. As expected, there was no change always the weakest always disappointing everyone.

He could feel pressure building in his throat before his body forced him to cough. It was blood. His useless body was dying again before the enemy even got to him. Not like it mattered anymore, there was no way to get away from them with their numbers.

...He was going to leave Deceiver behind, wasn't he? Even after he'd assured him he'd come back...

He'd thought his body would be what marked his end when he'd finally returned from the eight year war but now he was going to die on a battlefield after all. It was as if fate was laughing at his attempts to survive thus far.

'Deon' smiled. It really was hilarious.

“Wow. How can you smile like this?” A voice disturbed him. It was the Demon King, who had since moved closer and was smiling at him, “Hey, you. What's your name?”

The Demon King, upon looking closer, was surprisingly human. The only difference was the color of his sclera, which was a deep black.

For someone who ought to be incredibly angry at 'Deon' who had murdered his subordinate, he seemed very... happy?, “...Deon Hardt.”

It would be best to go along for now. Maybe there was still a way to escape if he managed to distract him enough.

The demon's smile grew brighter as he extended his hand towards 'Deon', “Would you like to join the Demon King's army?”

Cavert smiled at the descending chaos as Deon reduced the number of Corps Commanders yet again. He should probably do something to prevent that going forward. Maybe a ban on alcohol for the human would be sufficient?

His newest entertainment was already showing its worth.

Truthfully, he wasn't sure it would work out so well. He had been sincere when he told the Duke that it was more fun to bet on the losing side. He hadn't expected to win.

Well, since he had a hand in creating the 'Deon Hardt' of today, there should be nothing wrong in wanting to see how this would play out further. If you want to play a game, you have to put your pieces on the board.

And Deon was Cavert's piece now.

The library was very quiet, so quiet that Deon was even a bit disturbed by it. Then again, demons didn't seem all that fond of reading. At least not the ones in the castle.

He was also pretty sure they were avoiding him. But Deon was human, so it was to be expected. Who wanted to talk with someone from the species of their lifelong enemy?

The fact that he'd been made Commander of the 0^th Corps right off the bat likely didn't help. He knows some rumors about him have been circulating, probably none good.

He was already browsing the second row of the bookshelves when a feminine voice called out to him from behind.

“Yes?” He turned around, removing his hand from the title he was trying to decipher.

A little girl with pink hair was looking up at him. Her eyes seemed to be sparkling, “Nice to meet you, I'm Ririnell!”

...Ririnell? That seemed oddly familiar. “It's nice to meet you, too. I'm Deon Hardt.”

Ririnell nodded with a confident smile, “I know!” She shyly glanced between him and the bookshelf, “Sir Arut, why are you in the library?”

Right. There was still that.

No matter how he said it, since the Demon King had addressed him as 'Demon Arut', everyone called him that. His personal guess was that they always just assumed they'd misheard Deon when he introduced himself and didn't want to upset him by getting it wrong.

The concern was touching, but that really wasn't his name.

He patted the child's head, who seemed surprised at the contact but made no move against it. Children were really adorable.

“I'm looking for some children's books. You wouldn't happen to know where to look for them?” He rubbed his neck with his free hand while giving her one last pat to the head with the other.

She seemed confused for a moment, “Children's books?” She looked at him like he'd asked her for the meaning of life, “What's that?”

“Huh?” Now he was confused, “You know, fairytales? Stories you tell to children, written in a book? ...Uuuh, child- child appropriate novels?”

Fuck, what was a child appropriate novel even! What nonsense was he spouting now?!

Ririnell was still staring blankly, “I... don't?”

Deon tried a last-ditch effort, “Didn't your parents ever read you stories as a child?”

“No...?”

“Not even your mom?”

“I don't have a mom.”

Shit, that was clearly the wrong thing to say, “What about your father?”

Eyes even more confused than his own were staring at him, “Why would the Demon King read us stories?”

“...What?”

“What?”

Deon was going crazy here, “Why would the Demon King be the one telling you stories?”

“...” Ririnell seemed to realize something, “Because he's our father. All demons are born from the Demon King's magic.” She smiled brightly, “We also don't go through growth phases like humans do, we come into being as is.”

That- That's so embarrassing- Deon wanted to bury his head in his hands. He's so stupid.

Wait a moment. If demons don't grow up then Ririnell isn't actually a child, right? ...He looked at those sparkling eyes and wondered where it was he'd heard her name before.

Ririnell... Ririnell...

Shit.

“The 11^th Corps Commander?!”

She lit up “That's me!” She nodded approvingly, “To think you'd be able to figure it out without me telling you. His Majesty was right, Sir Arut truly is amazing!”

Figure it out, his ass. He just memorized the names and positions of those he should avoid the most! Hell, he patted her head! She wouldn't realize it's because he thought of her as a child, right? She wouldn't kill him for this, right?

He looked at her with wariness in his heart but with these big and curious eyes she just looked too much like an innocent child.

She tugged at the hem of his shirt, still looking like an adorable child, “Sir Arut, what kind of stories did your parents tell? Were they nice stories?”

“...”

“...Sir- Sir Arut?”

Deon snapped out of it. Ririnell looked a little frightened all of a sudden, so he unconsciously patted her head again, “I'm sorry. My parents...” hated me “Didn't have time.” didn't want to see me.

“Oh.” Now she looked sad, “Then Sir Arut read the stories himself, right?”

...No, he didn't even know whether they had any at the Manor.

“Not... really. But-” There were a few times, “My... brother... told me some fairytales. Occasionally.”

“So you were looking for some to read now?”

“Not exactly. I figured you'd have some different from the human realm here. I would have asked His Majesty if I could copy some down, had I found any.”

“But not for yourself?”

“No.” He avoided her gaze, “For... a family member.”

For his little Didi to be specific.

“Ooooh.” The little girl seemed excited, “Sir Arut is very good to his family!”

“A-Ah?” He was surprised at her outburst, “Yes?” How could he not be good to his son?

“But why get some from here? Did they already read all the children's books in the human realm?!”

“No, no.” What an amusing thought, “I just had some free time and figured that I might as well look. Like I said, I thought you might have some different stories here.”

“O-oh, sorry.”

“What for?”

“We don't have any.”

“It's fine. It's understandable. It's my bad for assuming.” Demons being born from the Demon King's magic better not be common knowledge in the human realm. That would be so much more embarrassing then.

She froze for a moment, evidently thinking hard about something, “...Maybe Jaykar could help?”

“The 1^st Corps Commander?” He really didn't want to meet him. Knowing one Corps Commander was enough for him, please don't drag a second one along!

“Yes?”

Deon nearly jumped out of his skin. Why are you sneaking up on him?!

Ririnell on the other hand seemed happy to see him, “Good, you're here! Sir Arut was just telling me about this thing called children's books they have in the human realm!”

Jaykar looked at them confused, as if to ask what that had to do with him.

Deon didn't know either.

Ririnell pulled at Deon's sleeve, putting them side-by-side and facing Jaykar. Deon didn't dare to resist, not when two Corps Commander were in his immediate vicinity, especially not when one of them was still holding his arm.

He could feel an itch at the back of his throat, 'Fuck, not now, not now! Keep it down!'

“Do the elves tell their children stories? Can you te-”

* cough *

Shit.

The doctor shook his head, “It's still the aftereffect from taking the Hero's self-destruction head on...”

The Demon King sighed, “Haaah... As expected.”

Expected his ass! Deon had no idea what they were rambling about now. His body has always been like this!

..But if he told them that he might be in even bigger trouble. If they realize that he's actually really weak, they'll probably kill him...

And Deon did not want to die, so he kept his mouth shut.

The leader of the demons shook his head in disapproval, “If you were feeling unwell, you should have told us, Arut. After being injured to such a degree, nobody would look down on you for it.” He patted Deon's shoulder, “Go and take a good rest. I'll see about assigning you a doctor.”

“No, there's no need-” If they assigned him one, it might become obvious that he's really just naturally weak.

“No buts! Arut, you need to take your health seriously.” There was another sigh as the Demon King looked at him, “I get it, you're restless. But until you're better I can't send you out on missions.”

It's not as if Deon was going to get better. He was stuck with this body. Also, he had no intentions of going on missions nor was he restless.

He hung his head to conceal his thoughts, “I understand.”

“It's good that you do. Now, have a good rest.” The Demon King then left with the doctor in tow.

A few days later, they finally let him get out of bed again. He was still suffering from the 'aftereffect' but the doctors declared his condition stable enough to get up.

Thankfully, they reduced the paperwork he was supposed to do due to his condition as they did not want to stress him too much. The Corps members weren't finalized yet either so he still had a lot of free time.

It was surprisingly peaceful.

The Demon King was sitting in his office with Jaykar in front of his desk. Cavert was idly playing with his writing utensils.

“You preserved the body as I asked, right?” Seeing his subordinate nod, the Demon King smiled, “Good, we'll be needing it soon.”

Chapter Text

Deceiver was truly and utterly bored. You did not want a bored god of any kind around if you knew what was good for you. Alas, his dad would be mad if he did anything excessive.

But what he didn't know wouldn't hurt him. He didn't even kill them! He was doing a great job!

Not to mention that he could claim it was self-defense. They were charging at him. Probably not to kill him, but his point stands! He was just a small defenseless child. What kind of harm could he have done, let's be honest. One child against a dozen of grown men? Please.

They just randomly started to fight among themselves. Presumably because of the ramifications of attacking a child, but how would Deceiver know?

He was clearly the victim here!

...Or that's what he would have said. There was a witness. Unfortunately. Very unfortunately.

“Tch.” he was really unhappy about this. Even worse, he couldn't just kill this one. Hell, even messing with his head might bring him problems.

Worse, again, was that he was even here.

Yes, Deceiver was very, very unhappy. It was not everyday you found an overgrown parasite nosing around in your business.

“You want me to return to the Empire?”

Deon was flustered when he heard that. Sure he wanted to go back, but he thought he'd have to figure it out himself. Like, full-on escaping and never coming back. He'd even managed to memorize a great deal of the castle layout to aid in his efforts these last two months.

There had to be a catch. No way was the Demon King just letting him go.

The Demon King smiled, “Yes. As a citizen of the Empire you're the best choice for this. The only one, really.” He sat up from his seat and approached Deon, “I'll even give you the remains of the Hero to bring back. That should give you quite the achievement, no?”

Ah, that's where the catch was. Great. “You want me to spy on the Empire for you?”

“You're so smart, Arut! That's right.” The Demon King poked him right above the collarbone and Deon could feel something engraving itself on his skin, “I even prepared this for you. If something happens, I will be able to tell where you are.”

'This is to prevent me from betraying you, isn't it?', Deon covertly grit his teeth and bowed, “Thank you, your Majesty.”

Having a tracker placed on him wasn't the worst outcome. If it was the Demon King, he could probably come up with something that would immediately kill him if he even thought of betraying him.

“It would be best to depart as soon as possible.” the demon smiled again, “I'll have Ed supervise the Corps while you're gone so don't worry and make sure to take care of yourself on the way back.”

“Then I will leave right away.”

“Sure.”

Having that disastrous conversation behind him, he headed for his room. It would be best to dress in more appropriate clothes for a returning comrade of the hero. Perhaps the clothes he'd worn when he first arrived. There was no need for luggage, so dress was all he did.

He received the remains when he left the castle gate from Ed, who had seemingly been waiting already. Since he had to return anyway he made a mental note to bring something back for him for the trouble.

Considering Deon did pretty much nothing except for a part of the paperwork, the burden on Ed must be pretty heavy. As his immediate superior, he should show his appreciation.

Before he could finally say goodbye to this place for the foreseeable future, he was stopped once again. This time it was Jaykar and Ririnell, the latter awkwardly trying to hide half her body behind the former.

Jaykar handed him a stack of papers, rolled up and bound by a thin rope, “We didn't get to finish the conversation last time, but Ririnell filled me in. This isn't much but it's all the stories I remember.”

“Ah, thank you.” Deon... hadn't expected that but accepted them. He didn't think he would actually get anything. He should bring Jaykar something, too.

“Uhm...” Ririnell poked her head out from behind Jakar, still visibly nervous and now blushing, “Could... could you bring me one of these children's books...?”

She really looked like an innocent child right now, “Sure.” Deon nodded, “I can bring the two of you something else, too, if you want?”

Jaykar shook his head, “I don't require anything.”

“Neither do I!” Ririnell, who was back to her cheery and confident self, added, “Just the book is fine!”

He smiled, “Okay. I'll see you in a while then.”

“Goodbye!”

“Safe travels.”

The park was boring and so was the food. But he wasn't going to complain. He wasn't going to give the para- he wasn't going to give his uncle anything he could use against him to badmouth him to his dad. Not that he would do so.

In fact, Deceiver was very certain that even if he dumped a bucket full of sewage water over the man's head he would face no repercussions. Not to mention that his dad would take his side either way.

After all, right now, Cruel Hardt was still someone his father hated for abandoning him. Alas, that same hate induced avoidance Deon had been doing is what led to this in the first place. Had it gone as it did in the original timeline, Cruel would surely have avoided Deceiver at this point in time.

Then again, he was a child being surrounded by unconscious thugs. Any upstanding adult would be concerned. And an upstanding adult Cruel was.

At least none of Deceiver's fears had been confirmed. Cruel had not, in fact, seen him knock all these people out. It wouldn't change that he would now pay more attention to his surroundings.

What would happen if he was careless again and was found by- shocker! An emperor on a random stroll!

...Jokes aside, he couldn't treat the world like his personal backyard if he wanted his father to be happy this life. Even if he ignored his dad's reaction to himself doing weird or unthinkable things, he couldn't cause too much of a disturbance to the timeline if he wanted to succeed.

And while meeting Cruel so soon hadn't been planned, it at least wasn't a major disturbance. Maybe he could even spin it to his advantage. This trigger to calamity was the most crucial piece.

If Deceiver could force an interaction between the two affected parties, some misunderstandings could quite possibly be resolved early. His father was already on the way, too!

Stalling the para- his uncle after the criminals had been arrested by pretending to cry was quite smart. Man took one look at him and folded.

Who wouldn't when your adorable adopted nephew was clinging to the hem of your suit and starting to cry?

So Cruel was stuck consoling him and then stuck pacifying him by buying the 'hungry child' some food.

...Deceiver wasn't actually hungry, but he only had so many reasons to get him to stick around. Cruel would have surely just brought him back to the mansion if he hadn't pretended.

He could have at least given him something sweet rather than this overly healthy stuff. No wonder it tasted boring. Cruel was just awkwardly waiting for him to finish eating at this point.

A sock had better parenting skills.

Alright, he was done with his food. Should he ask for dessert next? Maybe a cake, that would take some time to finish.

“-Didi!”

His arm was suddenly grabbed and he was pulled into a pair of warm arms. His father was finally back, Deceiver smiled to himself as he stood still. His father was still glaring at his uncle.

-And was now pulling him away.

Right. The avoidance part. He'd forgotten about that.

Eduardo was standing by the window, looking out over the royal gardens. It was an eventful day.

First, Deon Hardt returned alive- the only one left- and he had even brought the corpse of the Hero with him. At least the man could have a proper burial, now. That was already more than any other Hero got, their earthly vessels torn apart by monsters.

And secondly... Secondly was that Deon had not done so without sacrifice. Eduardo had seen the ominous purple mark glowing against the young man's pale skin. The curse of the Demon King. If he wanted to be free of it, he would have to return to the demonic realm.

Who knew what that demon wanted in exchange?

Eduardo doubted it was an errand boy. That was likely more due do some pastime curiosity. Indeed, when he had looked over the papers Honorary Count Hardt had been holding, there was nothing strange in them. Though not in a style or wording he had heard before, it had all the markings of a bedtime story.

It was really... curious.

Honorary Count Hardt was sitting across from him on the sofa, the remains already safely handed over to the palace staff. Nemeseus was behind Eduardo, clearly still wary of the young hero.

The young man had just finished his report and a palace doctor was examining the curse on his body, his physical state otherwise deemed healthy. Barring any preexisting conditions, of course.

While the doctor was doing so, a roll of paper fell into his vision, neatly placed beside the man's coat. It looked rather normal but Deon Hardt had not departed with any paperwork, nor did he mention stopping anywhere else in his return.

He motioned for Nemeseus to take it for him. Deon saw this but made no move to stop it, the only change in him a faint expression of surprise. Was it nothing serious, after all?

He took the parchment from his former general, removed its binding and unfurled it. It was...

“A story?” he couldn't help but blurt out.

Honorary Count Hardt blinked, “Several, actually.”

The Emperor looked at him, dumbfounded, “ Why? ” 'What were you doing? I thought you were in the demon realm?'

“...” The other looked a little awkward as he opened his mouth, “I- uh... I couldn't leave yet because of- because of the curse and I also didn't know where the body was, so I figured I might as well...” he blushed a bit, “-might as well look around the library when I found they had one. But I found nothing that seemed important so I just started looking for stories.”

“And these are from the library?” He held up the papers.

Deon shook his head, “The library didn't have stories either. These were given to me before I departed by a demon that heard of me looking around. So I guess looking for them was a good cover?”

“And they just gave them to you?”

“Well, I was asked to bring some back.”

Why would the demons want the human world's story books? Was it an order from their King? But why... “Children's books?” Not something else? The Demon King really wanted children's books?

“Yes.”

Was it really the Demon King who wanted them? Really?

Eduardo had left that meeting thoroughly confused.

“He didn't even speak to you?”

“...No.”

The patriarch of the Hardt family hung his head. How could everything have gone so wrong? He knew there would be consequences when Deon returned. They were unable to protect him and as a result he was thrown into hell.

They were ready for anything when they heard he had returned from his mission, alone but alive. The two parents were just glad Cruel had gone out early that day. The two of them alone would bear the consequences.

...But Deon never came. No matter how much time passed since he left the palace, Deon never came to them. Yet it was clear they weren't welcome.

Even Cruel, who used to have the best relationship with him, was completely ignored. Deon wanted nothing to do with them. That was okay with them. It hurt but if this was Deon's wish, they would accept it. It was just sad that even Cruel... they wanted at least him to get along with Deon.

Their failure had not only cost them a son but Cruel his brother.

Count Hardt hoped he was eating well. He hoped he was happy, that he had made friends in these years that were still alive today.

He hoped taking care of a child wasn't too hard on him. That Deon had at least some family that would be able to stand by him. That nobody would outcast and frighten the sweet child just because he was adopted.

Would they even be allowed to call him their grandchild?

“-Do you understand?”

Deceiver nodded aggrieved, “Yes, dad.”

Deon didn't think he had to tell Deceiver about stranger danger. Again.

Granted, Cruel wasn't a stranger- to Deon. He very much was to Deceiver. Was it because this was the capital? Did the child think he was safe since there were guards all around?

...That couldn't be it. From what he heard, his son encountered that man because he was ambushed by a bunch of gangsters.

It wasn't that he was just naturally naive either, to trust someone just because they helped you. Deceiver had stayed at the military base year round, he knew better. Deon really didn't know why this happened.

But now that Cruel had helped his son, he couldn't completely ignore it either. At the very least he had to pay him back for the meal.

He sighed, “I guess there's no way around it.”

He really didn't want to visit the Hardt Estate. He didn't want to see their cold gaze.

Chapter Text

Deon hadn't thought he'd ever return to this place so many memories. Just looking at it gave him a sense of dread everyone hated him.

He could see the servants eyeing him whispering. Probably wondering how he could dare to return. How obvious it was that nobody here wanted him around. They hated him so much they tried to kill him.

It would be fine. He took a deep breath.

He was only here on official business, he had sent notice, he wouldn't stay. They wouldn't need to worry about him intruding further than this he wouldn't stain their perfect lives.

He couldn't show any weakness here.

The butler greeted him warmly mockingly. It wasn't the same one he remembered. He was then led into the manor.

His parents were already sitting in the lounge, waiting for him like proper nobles awaiting their guests as though he wasn't their child. They looked nervous uncomfortable.

They exchanged some very awkward greeting before tea was poured and the servants left. The lady his mother was fidgeting slightly, glancing at him from time to time as the silence stretched.

Deon cleared his throat, “I'm here today as I wanted to express my gratitude to the heir of the Hardt family. I believe I mentioned this in my letter.” The implication being where was he.

“Cruel is...” The patriarch his father glanced at his wife, “We sent him on an errand this morning. He must have run into some trouble. We apologize for the inconvenience and shall pass anything you wish onto him.”

'You just don't want me near him', Deon closed his eyes for a moment and inhaled quietly. It was fine, he could get through this. He could get through this. He couldn't kill them. Deceiver still needed his parent.

He slowly exhaled and nodded, “Then please pass on my gratitude to him for helping my son.” He put a pouch with money on the table, “Although it may not be much to the County, I still wish to reimburse him for the cost of the meal he purchased for my child. Please give him this as well.”

The Count nodded but made no move to reach for the pouch. He didn't push it back either.

The older man opened his mouth and closed it again, then he sighed. His wife was playing with her hands beside him, glancing at her husband all the way. She was ignored this time.

They were looking down on him-

“U-uhm.” His mother stuttered as she wrung her hands, not even daring to look at him, “Did- did you... receive the gifts we sent?”

“-what gifts?” -mocking him.

'Deon' glared at her. She shrunk back.

8 years. He had spent 8 years in that hellhole, alone and unwanted. Never was there anything. Not a letter, not a gift, not even a note telling him to hurry up and die. And now she had the audacity to claim they had sent gifts.

He chuckled darkly.

Was he finally worth something to them? Now that he was a war hero, recognized by the emperor? It was all about gains and losses. His life and death never mattered. Only how useful he was. Now that he finally had some worth, they started trying to be friendly with him.

What a joke.

“My sincerest apologies.” His smile was crooked as he shrugged with his hands in the air, he hoped the sarcasm wasn't lost on them, “I seem to have never gotten them. How unfortunate.”

Why did 'Deon' have to become a murderer to gain their affection? They were just as twisted as him. No less insane.

It must run in the family.

Well, it seems there was at least one thing he inherited from them they must be so proud. If only he had brought his knife. He wanted to slit their throats so badly.

He had to calm down. He folded his hands together and tightly buried his nails into his skin. Just barely enough to not draw blood. There was no need to injure himself for their sake.

“Unless Lord or Lady Hardt have anything else, I would need to be on my way. I've no doubt my son is waiting for me at home.” Where he would shower him with affection unlike them.

The Count shook his head, “...There is nothing else. We will pass everything on to our eldest son when he returns.”

There they went again, pretending to care. Implying they saw him as a son. 'Deon' couldn't fall for these things. His younger self had been too stupid. What eldest son, what youngest son. He was sure the only reason he wasn't disowned early is because of how bad it would look on them.

No need to flaunt relations now.

“Then I'll bid you farewell. Thank you for having me.”

“It... It was no matter.”

'Deon' pretended not to see their complicated shattered expressions as he left.

He only relaxed as he sat down on his own couch in his own room in his own house. Deon was finally back home. All his nerves were frayed. He would lay down in his bed but it seems Deceiver had taken a hold of it and fallen asleep. He wasn't going to wake the poor child up.

He must have been very tired to fall asleep in the middle of the day like that.

...Maybe he should just take a nap with him. Yeah, that sounded like a great idea.

Deon was an adult with no responsibilities or duties right now. It was perfectly fine to doze off, so he got up and carefully got into bed, trying his best not to disturb Deceiver. He ran his fingers through the other's hair before he finally fell asleep himself, his hand still entangled in his Didi's hair.

Deceiver opened his eyes and slowly removed his father's hand from his head and placed it beside his own head, careful not to wake him up. He then looked at his parent. He was aware where his father had just come from.

He also knew it had not gone well. Humans were both stubborn and fragile when it came to feelings and his father had gone through hell with false beliefs, so it would also take a lot to get rid of them. He knew that but he had still hoped there would be an easy start into it.

Starbe would pay for this. Starbe would have to pay for this.

...Because Deceiver could only punish his own parent so much.

The Demon King had his own sins connected to this but compared to the Demon King's sins so far, the Duke had many more. It was that human wretch that suggested to put his weak, innocent and frail father to war. It was that human that would not stop targeting the young man who fought desperately to survive.

From all the emotions Deceiver knew about he understood hate very well. He was still learning and doing his best not to screw up but if he knew it was justified? If he knew his dad wouldn't be mad at him about it? He would do it.

He wasn't just taking preventive measures, he was also acting upon the past.

Demon King Cavert was not allowed to die and Duke Starbe Illuster was required to. Deceiver was the highest authority present in this world right now and he shall be the one to decide the fates of those living upon it. That was his right as a deity.

Starbe Illuster wasn't an innocent life caught in the crossfire, he was a horrible man who had put innocent lives into one.

And if it hadn't been for Deceiver, his grandparents would have been part of that.

He thinks he might have started to understand what remorse was. Remorse for not having killed him yet.

But this house of cards couldn't collapse yet. Starbe Illuster, this man who had made a deal with a demon, really ought to thank the gods. Deceiver would just love to tear into him.

He gently held his father's hand and smiled, “I'll protect you this time. So- sleep peacefully.”

He wouldn't allow history to repeat itself.

The Lofty Knights were on his property. Why.

“I dread to ask but...” He crossed his arms, “Why are you here?”

“The Emperor sent us!” Cletter reported, “We're your Knights now. Officially.”

“I get that. But why?”

Milan smirked proudly, “Because our adorable captain has officially been recognized as the 3^rd Hero of the Empire!”

“And Heroes need an entourage!”, the rest cheered.

Deon was unconvinced, “But why you?”

One of them theatrically put a hand over his heart, “Captain, that hurts!”

“It's like you don't want us here!”

“Don't abandon us~!”

The young hero could feel his eye twitch. This bunch of lunatics. He could hear Deceiver snickering behind him. At least someone found some humor in this.

“You should call him Count!”

There was also that. While Deon was grateful that the Emperor sent Dame Lianne along to keep them in line, he wasn't very enthusiastic about it.

He also felt a little iffy about it. While these idiots might be mad, they still listened to him well enough.

There was no need for an extra person.

Or maybe they were trying to observe him? Was the Emperor doubting his allegiance? Deon would like to think he hadn't given him any reason to... but then again, he was the sole survivor. Not to mention he came back relatively unharmed with the Hero's body.

The 'curse' would lessen that doubt somewhat but it was best to eliminate all possibilities. He couldn't fault the Emperor for that. It's not like the man could observe him when he ultimately returned to the demon realm so he had to garner what he could while Deon was here.

Deon rubbed his temples, “Whatever.” He could feel everyone's gazes on him, “I'll tell the servants to prepare your accommodation, so do what you want-”

“Yes!”

“Our Captain is the best!”

“See! I knew the Cap- Count wouldn't say no!”

He was caught in an impromptu cuddle-pile. At least he wasn't the only one inconvenienced by this. Dame Lianne, who had been caught and forced to go along looked a little annoyed at their general messiness. She'd have to get used to it. This was her normal now.

Meanwhile, Deceiver, who had managed to avoid becoming a substitute for a teddy-bear, was just watching.

Once Deon finally managed to free himself, he ordered them all to run a few laps around the estate. This way he would have some time to breathe before they were finished.

Deon wouldn't claim he missed them he did, but he did appreciate their presence. They were here for him not for some pretense, they didn't owe him anything, they didn't have to like him. But they did. They liked him. Liked Deon.

Even though he was utterly weak and useless.

Deon loathed to admit it but he might be able to call them his friends. Genuine, honest friends. Something he could only dream of as a child where he was alone and unwanted. Was he?

They said they sent gifts.

Did they?

They didn't. Stupid him.

They were very violent and loud though. He rubbed his ear. Well, he was used to it.

It reminded him a bit of the demon realm to be honest. Although they weren't as loud they were certainly violent.

...Were demons really all that bad? Violent tendencies aside.

Jaykar had a calm and serious personality and Ririnell was very lively. Ed certainly said some extreme things from time to time but he was very friendly overall.

And even with many of them very violent and fight-minded, there were very organized and lively. They understood rules and consequences and did not uselessly start fights.

They were also very rational.

They had different settlements and lives. They communicated with each other and protected them accordingly. They had a hierarchy. The Demon King and the Corps Commanders along their respective Corps. They also had what Deon counted as ordinary citizens living around the realm. Some Corps were specifically to defend the places these citizens lived in.

It was a fully functioning society.

The ones he had met seemed very... human, to him.

It was a few days later. The weather was very cloudy as the Lofty Knight were sitting around and talking, having dragged Deon and Deceiver into it as they wanted to spent some time with the little kid. Deon really didn't want to hang around with them but he wasn't leaving Deceiver alone with them if he could.

Lord knows what they taught him last time he was gone.

Thankfully, they were just oooh-ing and aaah-ing over Deceiver's little trinkets right now. The child had also fixed up Deon's brooch. Turns out it had some protective measures to it. No wonder he survived that fall from the cliff so well.

It was all thanks to his little Didi this time as well. He ruffled the child's hair, promising him some sweets later.

“Our little kid's things are still the best!” Milan commented when he saw the newly shining brooch.

Another snorted, “Obviously. Didi's the best enchanter around.”

Lianne's eyes were wide open, “Ah? The young master can enchant?”

“Yeah!”, another cheered, “He's the best-est at it!”

“That's not a word!”, Dame Lianne scolded, “Mind your speech, you're going to teach him wrong things! How will that make him look?”

'At least someone cares about his education besides me.' Deon shot her a grateful smile with his eyes.

Maybe having her around wouldn't be so bad.

He lost his smile as he looked back at his son. He could still remember the first time he had seen his Didi 'enchant' something.

In a far off village, an old woman froze in her tracks.

“That tree has stopped growing.”

Chapter Text

The air in the demon realm was cool. Deon didn't think he'd be back so soon as he stared at the eternally dark sky and removed his hood and mask.

He instantly felt better, it was so much easier to breathe here without the mask on his face. He made his way towards the Demon King's castle slowly. He figured that at this rate he'd be sent back and forth every one or two months.

When he made it to the gate he was instantly greeted by Ririnell who crashed from the sky.

She beamed with happiness, “Sir Arut! It's been so, so long!”

'It's only been two months.' Deon sweatdropped. He'd gone longer not seeing someone in the last decade. Two months wasn't a big deal to him, “It's certainly been a while. How have you been?”

“Great!” She kept pace with him as they entered the castle together, “But it's been a little boring lately. So everyone's a little restless.”

“Is that so?” In his opinion, it was fine to be a little bored sometimes, “Right, I brought you some books as promised. Maybe that will entertain you for a bit.”

He reached into his bag and took out two books, both popular fairy tales in the capital.

“You remembered!” She held them up as she stared at them in wonder, “Thank you!”

He subconsciously patted her head again, “No problem. I hope they're to your taste.” And that she wouldn't be mad with him if they weren't.

“I'll have them read until you have to go back.” She assured, then squealed, “I'm sure they'll be great!”

“There's no need to hurry. You can keep them.” He'd bought them in pairs of two and already added one of each to the manor's library. He startled and reached into his bag again, “Right. I have something else for you.”

“Huh?” She peeked at his bag as he took something out and handed it to her.

It was candy, “Here, these are popular in the capital right now.”

“They look delicious! Are they really for me?” She peeked at his face.

He huffed in amusement, “That's why I gave them to you.” He noticed the 1^st Corps Commander from the corner of his eye and mustered up a smile “Hello.”

He could somewhat manage Ririnell who seemed a lot like a child but Jaykar was different. He couldn't be complacent around him.

Jaykar nodded in acknowledgment, “Welcome back.”

“I have something for you, too.” Following the demons confused look he pulled something else out of his bag. It was a small box filled with biscuits, “It's a thank you for the stories you gave me. I didn't know what you'd like, so I just bought some biscuits to be safe.”

He was pretty sure someone like Jaykar would find it at least a little insulting to be handed candy. And biscuits were always a fairly safe choice. Among humans anyway. But it's not like he knew what demons liked.

“Ah, thank you?” The commander still seemed to be confused but accepted the cookies, “You didn't have to.”

“I was going to buy some things anyway.” He explained, “So I figured I might as well buy those while I was at it.”

Jaykar nodded again, “How long are you staying this time?”

Deon tilted his head and glanced at the ceiling, “No idea? It depends on what arrangement His Majesty makes.”

“I see. How is your body? Is the aftereffect still plaguing you?”

Deon froze. “...Yes...?” he whispered, not really daring to look the man in the eye. Since he was actually just really weak and not suffering from a lasting injury, it wouldn't be going away soon. Sorry, but he'll be coughing up more blood.

The demons seemed to interpret his hesitant answer as something else as they reacted.

Ririnell stomped her foot down, “That damn Hero!”

Jaykar frowned, “That's no good, you should visit your doctor. I remember you had one assigned?”

He paused. “Yes, Ben.” He responded, “I'll go after I meet with His Majesty.”

“Okay. Remember to rest.”

Like Deon was planning on doing anything else, “I'll do that.”

He bid the two farewell with this and headed further towards the Demon King's office. He knocked and waited for an answer before entering.

“Arut, you're back!” The Demon King smiled brightly and got up from his seat when he saw him, “How was your mission?”

“It went well? There isn't much to say.” There really wasn't. The Empire was very peaceful at this point in time. “I told the Emperor that the spell Your Majesty put on me was a curse, so he would have no choice but to send me back.”

The demon was now standing in front of him and grinned, “You even figured out a way to come back on your own. Arut, I'm impressed.” The smiled on his face softened a lot, “How is the Empire doing?”

“The Empire is currently peaceful and recovering well from the war. The Emperor does not appear to have plans for another war any time soon and the nobles are mostly behaving themselves.”

“Mostly?”

“The faction against him isn't exactly dormant but they're not openly fighting him and are being very careful.”

The other nodded, “Anything else?”

Deon thought for a moment, “The Revolutionary Army is still gathering people but no plans to attack have been discovered so far.”

The Revolutionary Army. He can't fault them for wanting revenge. So long as they leave him and his alone, he sees no reason to care about them.

“Then how about you?” The Demon King looked him up and down, “You don't look so well. Are you still ill?”

He gritted his teeth, “Yes.” That damn aftereffect nonsense.

The demon looked at him for a moment, “It must be very frustrating for you to react like this. I'll go call the doctor for you.”

“No need.” Deon stopped him immediately, “I already planned to go there when we're finished.”

“If you say so.” He looked a little unhappy as he agreed, “Please take care of yourself. You're very important to us.”

“I will.”

They were only worried for him because they thought he was strong and appeared to have a use, but even so, it was still... it meant a lot to him.

He smiled softly, “Thank you.”

“?” The Demon King seemed caught off guard, “What for?”

“For worrying about me.” 'For saying I'm important to you.'

“Of course.” He smiled back, “How can we not? You're suffering because you helped us.”

“...” Great, now he felt bad, “I only did as I should have.”

The Demon King laughed, “Well, enough talk. Go see the doctor.”

Deon nodded and turned towards the door to leave but froze before he opened it. He looked back at the King, “Right, Your Majesty. May I know your name?” The Demon King froze and Deon rubbed his neck nervously, “I know the names of the other Commanders but I never heard anyone mention yours...”

The Demon King opened his mouth, “...” He paused and closed it again. Finally, he sent another smile Deon's way as he replied after all, “Cavert.”

“Right, Your Majesty. May I know your name?”

Cavert was genuinely... surprised? Caught off guard?

How long had it been since he'd said his own name? How long had it been since anyone had called him so? Cavert thought about it but couldn't remember.

It had been a long, long time.

Even the leaders of the other races addressed him by his title. It wasn't like many people knew in the first place. Everyone would default to his title again and forget anyway.

He would even have to remind himself every so often. His name was Cavert. He wasn't just any Demon King, he was Demon King Cavert.

Would anyone even care after he was gone?

He wished for his name to remain behind. It was an impossible wish. Time would erase everything and once- if- he was gone one day, no one would remember. No one would care.

Had anyone ever asked before what his name was? He can't remember anyone else who did. He was the Demon King and that is all that mattered to the world. He wasn't accepted by it in the first place, why would it care for his name?

May I know your name?

“Cavert.” Remember it- “My name is Cavert.” -and don't let it be forgotten.

The human bowed slightly and smiled, “Thank you for telling me, Your Majesty Cavert.”

It occurred to Cavert that his Commander looked very... nice when he smiled, “If you want, you can address me by my name in the office.”

It must be because he finally heard someone call out his name after all this time. But-

Please remember it.

-He wanted to hear it more often.

“...and that's it.” Deon appeared to be rather bored right now. He had just submitted the 0^th Corps monthly report and Cavert had to admit there wasn't really anything interesting on it. “Does Your Majesty require anything else?”

In the few times the human had returned to his office since he arrived in the demon realm, he had not addressed Cavert by his name again.

...Well, it was inevitable.

He smiled at his most prized subordinate, “No. You may go.”

“...” Deon didn't move for a moment and blinked, “Then I'll leave now. ...Have a good day, Your Majesty Cavert.”

Cavert watched Deon leave with seemingly no change in expression, but internally he was smiling. He had remembered after all.

Deon was confused. Ever since he had asked the Demon King for his name he'd been strangely expectant whenever Deon visited the office. And while Deon was certain it wasn't because the Demon King actually wanted to be called by his name... he wasn't so sure anymore.

It ought to have been a trap. What kind of superior wants to be addressed not with their proper title but with their name? This was just a surefire way to get killed. A test to see whether Deon truly respected him as a boss.

But anytime he left... the King looked strangely resigned. So he bit his cheek as he was about to leave and addressed him by name after all. Then he made quick work on getting out of the office.

Fortunately, he wasn't chased and subsequently murdered.

Perhaps encouraged by the attempt he began to address the Demon King by his name more. With his title in front, obviously, Deon wasn't entirely tired of living.

Except, well, it seems to have backfired a bit. Just a bit.

It wasn't exactly a bad thing, it was just a little annoying how often the demon would come and check up on him. He was also friendlier, which considering that he had always been very friendly and caring towards Deon, was weird.

Was all this really just because Deon called him by name? Were demons somehow forbidden to use the Demon King's name and Deon, as a human, was not affected by it? Did he really need to be that happy about it?

He was the Demon King. If it really bothered him that much he could just change the law.

Deon, as a perfectly ordinary human, could not understand the problems of the powerful. The Emperor was also not addressed by name to his face but would generally be called 'Emperor Eduardo' when spoken about in many situations.

But he never heard the demons refer to their King by name, so there must be a reason for that.

...Well, it had nothing to do with Deon. He just had to make sure he would address him by name, for some reason.

Deon was surprised, “A party?”

“That's right.” Ed nodded, “However, His Majesty has asked that you refrain from consuming any alcohol.”

Why was he being excluded again? Why can't he get drunk! His liver was perfectly fine! “What's the occasion?”

“It's been a while since anything larger happened, so when the 2^nd Corps Commander returned this time, His Majesty decided to celebrate.”

The 2^nd Corps Commander was... Mh. Deon didn't know who she was. He knew her name but he had been lucky enough so far to avoid meeting most of them. Well, it should be alright as it was just a party.

Since he wasn't the main character he could just blend into the background. ...But he'd have nothing to drink! How was he supposed to endure without that! With all these demons in one place he'd have no way to relax...!

Damn this alcohol ban! He wanted to driiink~!

…

He didn't really want to go, but what could he do? Although he hadn't spent that much time in the Empire's capital or among other nobles, he knew full well you couldn't just ditch your social obligations.

He looked at Ed, a little annoyed, “I'll prepare for the event then.”

“Uhm...!” The short-haired demon stammered, “L- lord Arut, that is- you mustn't fight anyone there!”

His gaze snapped to the very nervous demon, “I wasn't planning to?” Did Ed think he was crazy?

“Is that so...?” The other looked a bit unconvinced, but pulled himself together when Deon gave him a look, “Then that's alright! Please have fun!”

He wasn't going to.

And he was utterly and completely right. He had managed to stay largely out of sight for the duration of it, having hidden himself along the wall and drinking a glass of juice. It had been so loud that Deon couldn't even try to relax.

The problem, however, came after the party. From its main character at that. Which is why he was now held against his will in his own room as the tall demoness rifled through his wardrobe.

Please let him go back to the Empire. At least he won't be forced to play dress-up doll there.

Chapter Text

His clothes were strewn across the room as the demon lady stood there judgmentally. Deon wasn't sure what the problem was. They were all proper and practical clothes. He even had some more casual ones, so why was she so upset over it?

She whirled around, and glared... at Ed.

'???', Deon peeked at his adjutant who looked just as bewildered as he was.

Devilania tsk-ed and muttered under her breath, “No style, all of them.” She pointed her stare at Deon, who couldn't help but flinch, “What's up with your clothes?! Why are they all so plain!”

He was pretty sure they weren't plain. But he didn't dare argue against her heated gaze.

“And you-” she pinned her gaze on Ed, “How come you didn't take care of this! How can you let your Commander go out like this! Not a splash of color! Of any style! It's all plain old boring things from last year!”

Deon desperately tried to drown out her loud yelling by thinking how well she would along with some of high societies ladies. On the two banquets he was forced to attend after the war and the return from the demon realm he had heard many of them make the same complaints about several attendees.

He was incredibly thankful he had found a hiding spot where they didn't notice him. They would have probably loved the chance to tear into his maids fashion choices.

“-I will not let this stand!” Oh, she was still at it. He looked at her and was startled to notice she was staring right at him, “Come, I'll help you get some proper and nice clothes. You'll look great when we're done!”

No thanks. “I think it's fine like this. I won't be going out mu-”

“How can it be fine?” she huffed, “As a Corps Commander you should, of course, wear your uniform, but you can't just wear your uniform. That-” She glanced at his clothes and huffed again, “-is by no means acceptable.” She looked him up and down with what Deon assumed to be disdain, “Not to mention I know so many things you'd look better in.”

He really didn't want to look better! How can he just let her drag him around?!

“...Okay.”

Quite easily, in fact. Damn it.

At least he didn't have to leave the castle as she dragged him into her room. There was a last-ditch effort to run after all- How could he possibly enter a lady's room?- which ended up not working as Devilania, who was quite literally dragging him, did not even register the attempt.

So not only did he end up entering anyway, he was forced to wear heaps of clothes again and again. She even tried to put him in a dress! Deon could tell you several people from the army who would be happy to but he. was not. one of them!

The whole mess even attracted a crowd! He could barely peek at them before the vast majority of them scattered though. It had even attracted Ririnell and some others he didn't recognize but at least it was only a few people.

Devilania clasped her hands together after a solid hour of changing clothes, “Oh, this is perfect.”

Finally.

She happily circled him as he stood there, clad in a rather fancy suit, “But something's missing...” She looked at Ed, “Hey, where's the box I asked you to bring along? I think I'll find something there.”

Deon wondered what box she was talking about when he saw Ed take out a small case. He immediately recognized it as the jewelry box he had stored a few accessories in. Specifically those Deceiver had tinkered with.

At least it wasn't more clothes.

He let her and Ririnell, who had decided to weigh in at some point, look through it. The others present were also giving out some comments while holding up various brooches or necklaces and comparing it to his outfit.

“This is it!” Ririnell eventually exclaimed with Devilania's explicit approval, “Put this on, this will look really good on you, Sir Arut!”

It was a brooch very similar to the one he had worn when he first arrived in the demon realm. It was the same jewel, in fact. His child had changed the brooch it was attached to and replaced it with a very white-looking silver with a very complicated design.

It made it look like a brilliantly shining flower.

“Okay.” He accepted the brooch and fastened it on his suit.

Devilania gave him a final look before nodding in satisfaction, “Now it really is perfect.”

Ririnell nodded quickly in agreement, “Sir Arut looks really, really good like this.”

“It's very practical, too.” One of the bystanders, a red haired demoness with a fan, praised, “It must have cost a lot.”

“Not really?” Deon responded, a little confused, “The jewel and brooch cost about the standard amount.”

The unknown demoness looked intrigued, “Oh, so you had someone enchant it separately? But to my knowledge that would still cost a lot. Sir Arut is from the Empire, correct? I don't recall hearing of many Sorcerers there.”

So that's what she meant. “I didn't hire anyone to enchant it. I-” he stopped himself.

Could he tell them about his Didi? He had thought that Deceiver was a demon like them but he remembered Ririnell's words in the library that day.

All demons are born from the Demon King's magic. We also don't go through growth phases like humans do, we come into being as is.

But Deceiver had grown up. From a small 6 year old child to a healthy 12 year old. Deon had been there for the entirety of it. He had seen Deceiver become older normally, there were no sudden changes or growth spurts unnatural to a normal human.

Deon would have never suspected his son of being anything other than human. He had never even entertained the idea until-

-until Deceiver messed up.

No, calling it him messing up was too much. It wasn't his son's fault any of that happened. The ones at fault were the monsters bred by war.

He thought his son was demon, but it turned out he likely wasn't. That meant Deon had no idea what he was.

Deon couldn't risk telling them his son wasn't human. That he wielded magic without being a demon. Had Ririnell not told him those words he would have told them but she had and he couldn't be assured of his safety anymore.

Had he been a demon, he would have told them now. If anything happened to him if they found out he was useless they would know one of their own was stranded in the human world.

But Deceiver wasn't, so Deon could only reach for their already established excuse, “...My son has a talent for enchanting. It's one of his works.”

You could have heard a pin drop.

Deon was now extremely nervous. Their reaction to the brooch being enchanted wasn't very negative, so he thought it would be fine.

Ririnell looked at him with big eyes and her voice was very quiet, “Sir Arut, you have a son?”

The room exploded back into life with her words.

“Oooh, how old?” One of the other girls- blonde- who remained behind questioned, “Sir Arut doesn't look that old for a human, so he must be pretty young, right?”

“Sir Arut, your child is fantastic!” Devilania swarmed, “Not only does he have good taste, but he's very talented, too!”

“Naturally he's talented!” Ririnell interjected proudly, “He's Sir Arut's child!”

The red-haired lady got up close and examined the brooch, fascinated, “He really is. The enchantment is already very complicated at first glance. And it's a defensive one, to boot.” She straightened and smiled at Deon, “Your child really loves you a lot.”

“Y-yes?” He was just glad she'd backed off.

“So how old is he?”, the blonde demoness from earlier eagerly questioned, “Who's the mother?”

I don't know, he nearly blurted out. Which would have definitely looked bad. He took a step back from all of them, feeling crowded, “He's 12 right now. I informally adopted him 6 years ago, formally a few months back. So I don't know who his actual parents are.”

“Oh- sorry.” the demoness lowered her eyes.

“No need to apologize.” He assured, “It's an easy misunderstanding to have. Especially when you didn't know anything beforehand.”

“What does he look like?” Ririnell popped out from behind the others.

“...” Deon pressed his lips together, “Like me.”

The blonde demoness from earlier had a funny look in her eyes as she tilted her head.

Deon had expected this, “He's really not mine biologically!”

“Ah- that's not what I was thinking.” She reacted, “I was trying to imagine what a small Sir Arut would look like.”

Oh. “My apologies.”

“No, no. It's fine.”

The red-haired one piped up again, “It is curious that he looks like you, Sir Arut. You already have rather unusual features for a human.”

“Then it's simply destiny!” Ririnell reasoned.

“Right.” Deon responded. They were both children discarded by their families, so perhaps it was.

At least Deon's parents kept him until they found a way to do so without repercussions. Deceiver seems to have just been... kicked out. Without much fanfare.

He sighed. It wasn't good to keep thinking about these negative things. He looked at the ladies who were now chatting among themselves.

He turned to the red-haired one, “Excuse me, but may I know your names? I believe this is the first time I've met some of you.”

“Oh, how rude of me.” She hid the lower part of her face with her fan, “I'm Edellia, the 4^th Corps Commander. Pleased to meet you.”

“I'm Oel, Commander of the 5^th Corps.” The blonde one answered, “Sir Arut, would you mind answering a few questions? I'm very curious about the human realm.”

His little toy apparently had a child. That was news to Cavert.

“Did he say anything else?” He questioned Ed who had been reporting about the incident.

The Corps Commanders don't usually mingle much together outside of official business or spars. They all have their own work, not to mention that most of their interests don't line up. Oel also held her colleague up for quite a while.

Well, it's not the first time her interests have delayed her work.

Ed nodded, “Sir Arut mentioned that the child looked a lot like him. He's also the one who enchanted his brooch.”

Looked a lot like him? “I see. You're dismissed.”

He thought about it after Ed left the office. Cavert hadn't observed Deon so much during the war that he'd notice something like that. He mostly just checked in on whether the young human was still alive. He had noticed a white-haired child even younger than him after roughly two years but paid it little mind.

He just assumed the duke had wanted to trick him with a rather pathetic fail-safe he could claim to be Deon. It's not like Cavert didn't know how humans aged. He had been alive for a long time after all.

But he didn't think that child would end up being adopted by Deon, not to mention that the human cherished it so much. Was it because they were similar? Both children thrown into war at an impossibly young age?

What was strange, now that it occurred to him, was that the child was there. Deon, who was 14, could still be excused. But what about a child as small as that one? There's no way anyone would keep them around the army. Couldn't they have sent him to a nearby village or town at some point?

Why was the child with Deon throughout the entirety of the war?

Ed had reported that the child was the one who enchanted the brooch. Who had taught the child to enchant?

Could the reason Deon kept him around be to prevent him from being exploited? Was he afraid of how others would treat the child that looked just as little like a human as Deon did? Could Deon, who had been forced to suffer through the horrors of war, still have that much sympathy for a stranger while in the midst of it?

Well, he shouldn't waste that much thought on this, it's not like the child had anything to do with him.

Deceiver blinked. Was someone talking about him?

“D- Argh!”

He idly caught the knife that had been thrown his way after disposing of the aggressor. A total of five. Honestly, he had nearly thought this last one wasn't going to show himself. This was the second time someone had come to kill him in these last two weeks.

They must be trying to draw out his dad, these powerless things. Duke Illuster must be desperate to go after him already. Should he give the man a 'present'?

...No, it would be better not to. Besides, he could always do so later.

He smiled darkly and looked at the bodies strewn around him as they vanished into nothingness. It would take more than just assassins to get rid of him.

Chapter Text

The 0^th Corps had just returned from a mission. Deon wasn't sure why they all looked at him in amazement, it was a simple visit to one of the surrounding towns to see if everything was alright.

They were muttering about encountering monsters at some point but what did that have to do with him? Deon was pretty sure he was nowhere near monsters, he'd surely remember if he had been.

Thankfully Ed was with him when they went to report because Deon had still no idea where the monsters factored in.

The Demon King stopped them when they were finished, “Arut, stay behind for a moment.”

“Of course.” He turned back towards the King as Ed left and closed the door, “How may I be of service?”

As much as he missed Deceiver, he hoped it wasn't to send him back to the human realm. He's only been back for a month and the Emperor likely wouldn't want him back so early. He had been in the demon realm for three months last time before he had to stay for two in the human realm.

Thankfully, Devilania had never succeeded in dressing him up again in the last five, nearly six, months. His opinion might be different otherwise.

“There's no need to be so formal, my dear Arut. You know that.” He leaned his head on his hand with a smile as he motioned for Deon to come closer, “You've done well this time, so I have a reward for you.”

“A reward?” But Deon only checked out a town?

Cavert took out something from behind his desk and put it down in front of him. It was a neatly wrapped box adorned with a red bow. “Well, calling it your reward might be a bit much. I suppose it might be more fitting to call it your birthday present. Humans celebrate those, right?”

“They do...” Deon looked at the box in wonder. He'd forgotten about his birthday in all honesty. He hadn't even realized it was November 24^th.

The other pushed the box slightly in his direction, “Go on, open it.”

Deon nodded and took the box, carefully removing the ribbon and wrapping. He opened the lid and saw a heap of soft red fabric. He put the box down and took it out. It was a scarf.

“I even put a warming spell on it.” The Demon King informed him proudly when he saw Deon's dazed look, “This way you won't go cold at all.”

“...Thank you.” Deon whispered quietly, tears building in his eyes. Aside from the Demon King and his son, who else would even remember his birthday? He smiled at the demon, “Thank you very much.”

“...” The Demon King looked at him with something Deon couldn't quite identify before he seemed to snap out of it and he hurriedly answered, “-No need, no need at all! It's not like I'd forget my most treasured Commander's important life events.”

He kept smiling, “Still. Thank you.” It meant a lot. But he didn't dare say that.

Cavert was going crazy.

He had dismissed Deon shortly after handing over his gift and told him to rest well.

He hadn't managed to get anything done since. Seeing his Commander smile was starting to do things to him and he couldn't even say he disliked it. Hell, he wasn't even sure what it was doing to him, he just liked seeing him smile.

Something was wrong. Very, very wrong. He rubbed his burning ears to alleviate the heat.

What the hell was happening?

Deon wasn't the first of his Corps Commander's to dislike smiling and yet still occasionally doing so. This hadn't happened the first few times the human had smiled at him either.

He tried to read the documents stacked on his desk but found himself distracted once more. He sighed and stood up, he wasn't getting anything done anyway, so he might as well walk around a bit.

He inspected all the Corps present in the castle from the last to the first in an effort to clear his thoughts. It had been a while since he had done so but everything seemed to be in order. When he was done and about to go back to his office, he decided to pay the 0^th Corps a visit as well.

Deon was unlikely to be there but he didn't intent to meet him either.

When he saw the 0^th Corps actually training he was a bit surprised. He thought Deon would at least pull a few of them with him to celebrate. The Corps Commander's the human was close with were all busy, as he had confirmed, so they weren't able to but it seemed like Deon wasn't planning to celebrate at all.

Weren't birthday's important, especially for nobility? He couldn't possibly be dealing with work on a day like this, right? It's not like the reports were due yet.

He turned towards Ed, who was supervising, “Where's your Commander?”

“Sir Arut is handling paperwork in his room!” Ed dutifully answered.

So he was dealing with work on a day like this. Maybe he should have expressively told him that he had the day off, “Haaa...”

“Y-your Majesty?”

He looked at the confused soldiers and came to a decision. Deon would likely dislike a party or anything of the sort, “Go hang out with your Commander. He has the day off, so I don't want to hear anything else about paperwork.”

Deon finally managed to get away. He thought he could get a head start on all that annoying paperwork but then his entire Corps barged into his room and nabbed all the papers. Then they all started swarming him and asking questions.

He thought Ed would save him but the demon just smiled apologetically and looked away, pretending not to see him quietly asking him to get them away. It took hours for them to stop and another for him to get rid of the last of them by making some shoddy excuse so he could run away.

It was probably for the best not to return to his room for the time being, so he roamed around the castle instead. He ended up finding himself at the entrance to the garden. He thought about it but couldn't remember ever coming here before, so he went inside.

It actually looked very normal and pretty, he could see all kinds of flowers as he walked forward. He couldn't believe such a relaxing place would exist here. He knelt down and reached out to one of the many rose-like flowers, careful to avoid the thorn, to get a closer look.

The gardener seemed to be taking good care of their plants. The flowers were different from the ones in the human realm though. Despite there being no difference in appearance, the petals were a lot softer and more plush.

He noticed something from the corner of his eye and shot up, barely avoiding the rapidly approaching assailant, only to slip and fall backwards. As a result, his back hit something solid before he could actually fall.

A hand held onto his shoulder to steady him as Deon took a closer look at what had attacked him. It was a giant plant monster that seemed to have attacked from the opposing bed of roses, if the direction of its stem was anything to go by.

It was holding itself flat to the ground and trembling, as if it was prostrating in front of something terrifying. But what was the plant so afraid of?

He glanced up over his shoulder where the Demon King was glaring at the monster. When he noticed Deon looking at him, his gaze instantly softened and he smiled at him.

“I've been looking for you.” He removed his hand from Deon's shoulder, “I heard you ditched your Corps members?”

“I spent the last few hours with them and it's not like they were training.” Deon reasoned, “So I wouldn't call it 'ditching'.”

Cavert chuckled, “I specially sent them to accompany you, but it seems to have been a bit much.”

'So it was you', Deon masked his annoyance, “Was there a particular reason for this?”

“I just wanted them to stop you from working. The papers aren't due yet and you just came back, you should rest a little more.” He rubbed his forehead and sighed with concern, “What if the aftereffects flare up again?”

Deon had been doing his paperwork precisely so he can have free time later and rest. It wasn't like he liked doing paperwork!

“I understand. I'll be more careful.” He replied.

“It's good that you understand.” Cavert looked around and Deon didn't miss him glaring at the plant a second time, causing it to run away and hide. He turned back to him with a smile, “I see you've found the garden. How do you like it?”

'It's terrifying.' He thought of the monster that had just disappeared and decided not to come back. There probably wasn't just one of these. “It looks very beautiful.”

“I'm glad to hear.” He started to walk deeper into the garden, motioning Deon to follow, “Don't worry about that one just now. They won't attack you again, they know better now.”

That wasn't actually all that reassuring. Knowing better didn't necessarily mean that they wouldn't do it. And why were they going deeper? He just wanted to get out at this point.

He couldn't help but ask, “Where are we going, Your Majesty?”

“Mh?” Cavert turned his head to look at him, “Just taking a walk with you. You wanted to see the garden, right?”

Past tense was the right thing to use, Deon no longer wanted see the rest. But you couldn't just tell your superior that, especially when they meant well. Well, since the Demon King was present, nothing would dare attack them. He forced himself to relax and proceeded to lie.

“Yes. Thank you for accompanying me, Your Majesty.”

“You don't need to thank me for something like this, Demon.”

Cavert could see Deon pausing for a fraction of a second before he composed himself and kept walking.

He had thought about it for quite a while after sending the 0^th Corps off to deal with their Commander. It was weird but he enjoyed seeing the man happy. If he couldn't identify the cause, then he just had to figure it out.

And his curiosity on the issue aside, he wanted to see Deon happy more often. He could deal with both objectives at once.

First of all, he needed Deon to stop being so formal all the time, saying please and thank you for trivial things. A good way to reduce formality would be for Cavert to take the first step, like using Deon's first name to address him. Personally, he wanted to use Deon's actual first name but he didn't want any holes in his cover, so 'Demon' would have to do.

Not to mention that referring to Deon as a toy or chess piece was starting to feel... iffy.

“What's wrong?” He inquired when Deon stopped.

He followed the human's line of sight and saw a bed of flowers. It was a species not available in the human realm, so Deon might be curious. They were black, many petaled flowers where all you could see of the flower itself were, well, the petals.

But Deon was looking at one cluster in particular. It was a small one where the black color had changed to white. Probably a mutation, its not like those couldn't occur.

“Are they part of a demonic plant monster?”

Cavert shook his head with amusement, “No, but they are poisonous to humans when consumed.”

The plants here liked eating them though, so they were usually used as food for them. It's not like humans would normally get close to the castle, let alone enter it.

“Do you like them?” The Demon King asked, curious.

“...A bit.” The other admitted.

He smiled and compared the color to Deon's hair, “They do look rather enchanting. A bit like fresh snow.”

Deon shook his head, his face caught in a grimace for a second before he spoke, “I was thinking they looked more like crystals. There, they're a little translucent.”

He pointed from the inner petals to the outer ones where they would turn progressively more see through.

“Do you want them to be actual crystal?”

“Huh?”

Another gift wouldn't be bad. He could even do one better. He snapped off two of the flowers and used magic to turn them solid.

Deon froze, “Your Majesty-! You shouldn't waste your magic like that!”

“Something like this doesn't take much. Take them.”

“Both?”

“Otherwise?” He patted Deon's shoulder with his free hand, “I heard you have a child. You can even make accessories out of them, then you can match.”

“Your Majesty knows...?”

“The whole castle probably does, by now.”

Chapter Text

It was a warm, sunny day. Deceiver had sneaked out of the manor again and was on his way to the Hardt family's estate. Discreetly, of course.

Sneaking in there, he found Cruel in what must be his room, working on paperwork. He didn't really want to talk to this man, but needs must.

He tugged on the man's shirt, “Uncle Cruel.” startling him bad enough that he spilled the ink all over himself and his papers. Ha.

His uncle looked at him as if he was seeing a ghost, took a good look at the closed door and back at him before blinking and pinching his nose.

Cruel looked at him warily, “How did you... get in here?”

“Through the door.” Deceiver dutifully answered. The door to his dad's own manor anyway, he wasn't about to grandly announce his presence in this one, that was rather the opposite of what he wanted. It's not like he needed to use the door in the first place, what were doors in the face of a god?

Plus, his dad might scold him for coming here and Deceiver didn't want that. Nor did he want to be questioned any longer, so he pretended to look around.

“Uncle, do you have anything to eat? I'm hungry.”

Cruel fished out a bag of cookies from his desk drawers that he handed to him, “What are you doing here? I can't imagine Deon being okay with this, he must have told you to stay away from me last time.”

“He did.” The not-child munched down on his treat. It was an acceptable offering. He put on his best innocent expression, “Why doesn't dad like you or my grandparents?”

The seemingly older man tensed and visibly hesitated, “We... your uncle and grandparents couldn't- didn't manage to help your father.”

“Oh,” Deceiver responded calmly, “So it's not because you hate him and want him dead?”

“What! No!” Cruel sprung up from his seat, his eyes were trembling, “Where did you hear that from?!”

“Dad.” He replied nonchalant. His father hadn't actually said anything. “Although I don't think he intended me to.”

His uncle fell back into his seat, burying his face in his hands, “...We never hated him and we certainly never wanted him dead. He's our beloved little Deon.”

Deceiver finished his cookie, “Then why would Dad think so?” He quietly fished out another piece, “If you all loved him, why would he think so ill of you?”

The other stopped hiding his face and stared at him blankly, then looked at the ground with a face full of guilt before hiding it again.

Deceiver might enjoy tormenting his uncle a little, but in the end, he still had a purpose. “If there's been some sort of misunderstanding, you should clear it up. Or could it be there is none?”

“...” Cruel remained quiet.

“Do you want Dad to hate you?”

“Of course not!”

“Then why aren't you talking to him?” He questioned, voice appearing angry.

The man shook his head, “We already completely failed him. Father said we shouldn't disturb him anymore than this.”

“So you're just doing what you think is right again. You and your parents both.” He snarled, “Sure, maybe dad does want you to stay away but have you ever asked? You could have written a letter and done so!” He looked at his uncle's dejected appearance and snorted, “Have you ever considered that he deserves the truth? Or even an apology?”

Cruel flinched but stayed otherwise silent. Deceiver felt he had a whole new reason to dislike this parasite.

“Is staying silent all you can do?” He sincerely glared at the man. There was no response, “No wonder he hates you.”

Cruel flinched again but by the time he looked up to respond Deceiver was already gone.

The man born as a demigod had hidden his presence and form as he took a final look towards the door, where he could feel two adults listening in. He could hear one crying quietly and decided that was his cue to leave.

Let them sort it out among themselves. He stashed his stolen treats away and left.

The manor was unsurprisingly lively when he returned. He'd noticed his dad arriving in the empire and as such, wasn't surprised at all to see him.

Deon ruffled his hair after he ran up to him, “Where were you?”

“In the garden.” He lied and tightly hugged his father, “I missed you so much.”

“...” Deon smiled helplessly, “I'm sorry Didi. I didn't think I'd be gone for so long.”

Deceiver's voice was muffled against Deon's shirt, “We couldn't even celebrate your birthday together-”

There was a gasp behind them. The Lofty Knights, who had arrived sometime during the reunion, looked aghast, “Captain, you didn't tell us about your birthday! We completely missed it!”

Deceiver kept his tongue. Of course they'd hear that. Considering his dad wasn't even home, they would have missed it anyway.

“This won't do.” Milan declared, “We're going to throw a party right now!”

“There's no need!” His father declared, clearly panicked at the idea. Deceiver nodded, he didn't want to celebrate together with them, just his dad and him was enough. “It's already been three months, let's just do it next year.”

Deceiver froze, he wanted to celebrate with his dad. He looked up at his dad with pleading eyes and Deon relented.

“I'll just have a private party with Didi...”

“That's not fair!” Cletter complained, “We also want to-”

“No.”

Once they shook of the others and were left alone, Deon showed Deceiver the two crystallized flowers he brought with him.

Deceiver looked at them curiously, “Where did you get these?” He could feel traces of demonic power emanating from them.

“From the Demon King. One for you and one for me.” Deon had never shied away from telling Deceiver where he was, “He said we could make accessories out of them, so I plan to bring them to a jeweler soon.”

“I can do it!” Deceiver blurted out. He wanted to feel his Papa's magic more, “I've made accessories before, I can definitely do it!”

His dad looked at him for a moment, “...Okay. But be careful.”

“I will.” He accepted the two flowers with a smile. This was his Papa's first gift to him, he would definitely handle them with care. He looked at his father, “What do you want it to be? Another brooch or maybe a necklace? It's a little large for an armband...”

Maybe he should just turn it into something that could switch what it was attached to. For convenience.

“Anything is fine.” Deon chuckled, “I'm sure I will love it, no matter what you turn it into.”

“You're a little late.” Eduardo commented as he sat down, motioning Deon to do the same.

“My apologies.” Deon responded politely, “I was tired yesterday and did not dare present myself in such a state.”

Eduardo was certain it was because he wanted to see his child more than having to report on his mission but he wasn't about to call the young man out on it.

“I'm glad you were able to return safely.” He smiled at the youth, “How is the curse?”

“I still haven't found a way to get rid of it.”

“What a shame.” The Emperor sighed, and tried to cheer the man up, “We'll just have to keep trying, I'm certain you'll be able to undo it in the future.”

“Thank you for your words, Your Majesty.” Deon replied and looked at him quietly, “About my mission...”

“Yes, tell me about what you've learned during your stay.”

He observed the man as he reported intel on the demons. At the very least he seemed to have come back unharmed. Though there was something curious...

As Deon's report came to an end, Eduardo was staring at him, “Is something wrong, Your Majesty?”

“I was just thinking...” He tried to think of the correct words, “I don't believe I've seen that necklace before. Isn't it heavy to wear?”

It certainly looked so. One should never underestimate the weight of objects and the flower hanging on a silver string from Deon's neck should weigh quite a bit for a necklace. Not to mention it didn't look natural at all.

No craftsman in the Empire had the patience for such a delicate and detailed flower, not to mention that the flow from no translucence to a lot of it was too even for real crystal. And it was definitely some type of crystal.

Deon held the flower in his hand and looked at it, “The Demon King created it from a flower. He gave it to me on my birthday.” He stopped talking but then seemed to remember something, “He also made one for Deceiver. He merely turned it into crystal, there is nothing wrong with them. If anything, there is a spell to reduce weight a little.”

Why would the Demon King gift a human something on their birthday? And then make an additional one for that human's child? The fact that the demon knew of Deon's birthday and son implied that he'd gathered information on him already. He must know that Deon was the Empire's third hero.

Was this a test? How did he know Deon would wear it to a meeting with the Emperor? Was he telling Eduardo that he knew he had a spy within his ranks? “Why are you wearing it?”

“My son insisted I wear it. He was very proud of his work, as he was the one who turned it into an accessory.” the young man clarified.

So it wasn't a test by the Demon King. At least not entirely. But it didn't change that he was aware of Deon's information.

Eduardo smiled despite his thoughts, “He is very talented.”

Deon bowed slightly, “I'll pass on Your Majesty's praise to him.”

The third hero probably didn't think much about someone knowing his birthday and family and didn't look like anything was strange, so the Demon King must not have let anything else slip. Was he overthinking? But there had to be a reason. Why would the leader of the demons give a gift to a human within his ranks?

What was he missing?

He quietly observed Deon again, as he was obediently sitting on the sofa. What made Deon of value to the demon? What did Deon have that made him different from others within the demon realm, aside from being human?

Maybe he was looking at this from the wrong angle. What the demon gave him was a crystallized flower which, it seemed, was supposed to be turned into jewelry. So the Demon King gave someone jewelry.

He startled at his realization and peered at Deon's face. Yeah, it wasn't bad.

The Demon King, probably... “Honorary Count Hardt, no, Deon- you should always be careful of the intentions of those around you.”

“Yes?” the man looked confused.

“If someone gets too close for comfort, don't hesitate to stab them and run. The Empire will protect you.”

The poor man was entirely bewildered now, “Yes?”

He couldn't lose such a precious tool to the demons. Even if it meant losing his spy in the demon realm, his position as the third hero was more important.

That nefarious Demon King probably had a thing for Deon and tried to swindle him with a courtship gift. Luckily, luckily the man was dense.

But at the same time, it was incredibly unlucky. He likely wanted Deon to get used to gifts from him and then strike when the young man least expected it. This man had been taken advantage of many times in his life, he didn't deserve having this happen on top of it all.

Eduardo knew it was rather hypocritical of him to think like that. But to him, Deon was a person to be used for the Empire, for the lives and sake of many. To the Demon King, it was purely selfish and for his own sake.

...

It would be even worse if the Demon King wasn't trying to swindle Deon. Because that would imply that the demon's feelings were genuine. In that case... thank god the man was dense.

Even if it meant the demon wouldn't hurt him, he was still... incredible thankful for the young man's ability to either ignore or misunderstand kindness and with that, attraction. Maybe he'd think the demon was mocking him. Yeah, that would be great.

High above, atop a cliff, two figures calmly observed the Empire. The taller one stoically looked towards the palace while the shorter seemed to stare into nothingness.

“I still have something I need to check, then I'll see about doing my part.” The taller declared.

The shorter nodded quietly, and replied softly, “Then I'll go do mine.”

Chapter Text

The Emperor had not been able to sleep for several days, the idea of the Demon King liking the Empire's third hero was still on his mind. What remained unanswered for him was why he gave Deon a present for the child as well.

All it would do was make it clearer that he had sought out information on the young man. On top of that, it shouldn't make too much of a difference whether he gives the little kid something or not. The favor gained from it would just be a drop in the bucket.

But if he went with the second theory, that the Demon King was sincere, could the demon... be currying favor with the child? No way, right? Who would do that before even meeting said child? On their first attempt with the courtship at that? Did he want to ensure the child would like his new father?

He had to be overthinking.

There were a few things Deon hated in regards to the royal family. One of them was their inability to leave him alone. He hadn't even been back for that long and he was sent out again to hunt monsters.

Where did he look like he could take those on?! He really wondered whether the Emperor was alright in the head sometimes. At least the Lofty Knights had been sent along, as much as he disliked the idea of being around them for extended periods of time.

And for some reason, he had this uncomfortable feeling of being followed ever since they set off. He didn't know why, every time he looked around there was nothing to be found. Not to mention, which lunatic would be following these mad dogs around?

When it got late, he stopped his horse and motioned for everyone to stop and dismount so they could set up camp.

“Let's rest here for tonight.”

“Got it, Ca- Count!”

The eerie feeling of being followed wouldn't go away. Then he saw a flash of white.

It had been a long day. First he had to clear up a disturbance caused by monsters and now he was stuck in the human realm. He should have left investigating the border to someone else.

Jaykar had assumed it would be a simple task of checking where it lead, so he put on a hooded cloak and entered. In the case where he ended up in a forest or mountain with no clear indication of which human country it belonged to, he would have just turned back and reported it. That way, personnel more suited to the task could have taken over.

Except the moment he crossed over into this forest, he was beset by assassins. The border should have been formed not that long ago, so how come the humans had already found it in such a dense forest?

Worse yet, they immediately blocked his access to the gate, forcing him to fight them. There were a lot of them and more still in hiding, he would be at a huge disadvantage if he let it go on. So he slipped out of their formation the first chance he got. He managed to shake them off after a while and returned to the border only to find them still waiting, but with greatly reduced numbers.

They must have split up to look for him while anticipating that he might return to flee through the border.

Yet he could still hear more than he saw. They were definitely waiting for him. If he could get rid of the one in front of the border he would be able to return to the demon realm and report to the King. It was unlikely the humans would risk going in without a plan, not to mention that Jaykar knew the terrain far better.

It would be easy to lose them once he overcame this hurdle.

He held his sword and got ready to strike at the guard. A great pain spread through his shoulder the next moment.

“There he is!”

Someone had shot him. He dodged the incoming attacks as another shot came at him from behind. Now aware of the threat, he evaded it.

This was going terrible. He parried an attack and tried not to wince at the pain coming from the wound. The head of the assassin in front of him suddenly went missing.

Infighting?

There was someone else standing in front of him now but the man quickly turned to the next assassin and begun to fight them. There were several of them and their clothes did not match his earlier assailants. So, not infighting. He pulled his hood to cover his face further.

“Are you okay?” Someone tugged at his cloak.

He looked at the speaker and stilled. It was a human child that looked over ten years old but that wasn't what had shocked him. It was the white hair and red eyes that were so similar to the 0^th Corps Commander that had him freezing up.

He heard a sword being sheathed and became aware of the fact that his surroundings had gotten mostly quiet. The assassins were all dead.

“Deceiver.” Walking towards them was the 0^th Corps Commander he had just been thinking about. He saw the man take a look at the part of his uniform that wasn't covered by the cloak.

When he saw the shock in the other's eyes he concluded that the human had recognized him.

The child beside him spoke up, “Dad, he's hurt. Someone got him in the shoulder.”

Dad? So this was the Commander's rumored child?

Demon Arut looked at him with a complicated expression. He could understand. He would need to take his cloak off to get treated and that would expose him to all the other humans here.

The human turned towards the only woman in their group, “Dame Lianne, could I trouble you to take everyone and look if there are any further assailants?”

The lady nodded, “Right away, sir!”

“Milan, get me some bandages before you leave.” The Commander then turned back to Jaykar.

“Got it!” The knight went towards the horses carrying what seemed to be their equipment.

Jaykar put up a hand towards Demon, “There's no need to bring bandages, I can handle this on my own.” He couldn't put his fellow Commander's position in jeopardy. If anything happened during the handover and they saw his ears, it would be bad.

“Nonsense!” The knight, presumably Milan, interjected as he finally fished out the bandages, “Here they are!”

He handed the bundle to his superior, who had stretched out his hand with a clear indication to hand them over, and left with the rest of the knights.

Demon seemed to huff in amusement as he watched them leave, “There's no need to worry about these guys. If they tell anyone about you, they'll just be screwing themselves.”

“What?”

The other smirked, “Don't worry about it. The bigger problem is Dame Lianne, but that's why I sent her away.” He motioned for the child to step away a bit and looked back at Jaykar, “Now let me take out that arrow and see your wound so I can bandage it up.”

Jaykar held still as he removed the arrow and cleaned the wound. The child was still there, calmly observing everything.

“Why are you here?” Jaykar asked Demon as the latter started to use the bandages.

“I was out on a monster hunt. I still have to obediently follow orders if I don't want to be found out.”

“Orders?”

Demon paused in his work and quietly looked at him, “Did His Majesty not tell you what I'm doing in the human realm?”

Jaykar thought about it, “I know you were sent to spy on the humans but nothing further. We're not supposed to talk about it, since the humans could figure something out if they hear about it.”

“Then I suppose it would be for the best not to tell you. If you get too curious about it, you can try asking His Majesty, though I don't know if he'll tell you.”

“I won't be interfering in your mission.” He responded, signaling that he wasn't going to ask. Instead he looked at the child again. “Why did you bring him?” Was his name Deceiver? Demon had addressed him as such earlier, when he arrived.

“Because someone,” Demon shot a look at Deceiver, “decided to follow us on his own.” He scowled, “He was supposed to wait at the manor.”

The child looked upset, “I wanted to hang out with dad! You were finally home and then you were just sent out again...”

Demon sighed, tied the bandage and proceeded to ruffle the child's hair. He spoke to Jaykar as he kept doing so, “It's thanks to him that we found you here. He said he heard something in this direction earlier. We thought it was the monsters we'd been looking for.”

“And then you found assassins instead.” Jaykar concluded.

The human shook his head, “Those aren't assassins. See that symbol on their clothes? They're from the revolutionary army.” He pressed his lips together, “Although it makes little sense that they'd attack you. With that cloak they couldn't have know you were a demon.”

“They saw me leave the border.” he pointed out.

Demon shook his head again, “You could have been a civilian or someone under orders to check it out. For all they knew you're someone who stumbled into the demon realm, lost your way and now finally made it out. I'll admit I don't know them well, but they never seemed like an organization that indiscriminately attacked people.”

“Maybe it was the hair.” Deceiver piped up, “What if they were looking for dad and thought, 'Oh, this one has white hair. Must be him!'”

“They wouldn't be that stupid.” Demon reasoned, “Why would they be sent out without a thorough idea of who they're looking for?”

“Have you encountered them before?” Jaykar questioned as he finished dressing.

“They apparently attacked my manor before but I wasn't there. The Lofty Knights made short work of them.” Demon snapped his head to his right and commanded, “Put your cloak back on, they're coming back.”

He nodded and did as instructed, making sure his ears couldn't be seen.

As they neared, Demon spoke again, “I won't be able to hide the border with this many people having seen it, so it would be best to report back that it's been discovered. While you're at it, have someone look at your wound, I only did basic aid.”

Jaykar nodded, knowing that this would happen.

The knights arrived shortly after and the lady gave a report, “We only found one more man in hiding. We have confirmed that their objective was you, Sir. It appears they mistook you for this gentleman due to your matching hair colors.”

Demon seemed speechless, “...They are that stupid.”

“What?”

“Nothing.” He rubbed his forehead, “Where is that man?”

“...” Dame Lianne looked embrassed, “That- they got a little mad while interrogating him... The man kept insulting you.”

Demon turned to look at the knights who stared back innocently and sighed, “Whatever. Be more careful next time. ...In any case, I've finished patching this traveler up, so let's go back.”

“Shouldn't we bring him to the nearest settlement?” Dame Lianne asked with worry on her face.

Jaykar spoke up, “Thank you, but I'll manage on my own. I'd hate to be a bother any further, you must be busy. The help you provided is plenty enough.”

Demon nodded, “It's as he said. We've also gotten rid of all the men attacking him, so we should now focus on our job. That would be the greatest help we could provide not only to him but also the surrounding towns and villages.”

The lady excitedly nodded as she corralled the knights to clean up.

“I'll see you the next time I go back.” Demon said quietly as he went towards them with his son.

He watched them get on their horses and saw the child looking at him. The young human smiled and waved before turning back to his father who hoisted him up onto the horse before getting on himself.

There was something about that child's face aside from his similarities to the Commander that were hauntingly familiar to him but he couldn't put his finger on it. He felt like he should know what it was but it just wouldn't come to him.

Eventually giving up on trying to figure it out, he made his way to the border, ready to return to the Demon King's castle and get his wound properly treated.

“Halt immediately!”

The elves pointed their shaking weapons at the intruder, while the Elf King was sweating at the pressure emanating from the man, as though a mountain was pressing down on him. He tried to look the intruder in the eye but found that he could not. Any time he tried, he'd feel fear consume him. An all-consuming, terrible fear.

And also, also...!

The world tree was right behind them! He could feel fear from it as well. But it was a different kind of fear. One he could not identify.

The man chuckled, clearly amused by their resistance. Though he could not see it, the Elf King was sure he was looking down on them with contempt.

“I'm not here to hurt you.” He soothed, as though he was talking to a child. A condescending smile, which he could barely see, was on his lips, “If I wanted to do so, I would have done it already. No, no, I'm here to help you.” The intruder laughed, “After all, how long do you think that tree will survive on its own? This world is in such a terrible state, after all.” The smile grew wider, “Right? King of the Elves? Or should I call you a [Dog] of the World?”

“We're not dogs.” The Elf King managed to rasp out through clenched teeth.

The intruder completely ignored him, “I don't think you can even receive any will to follow, in the state it's in?” He chuckled, “As the World's dog, be obedient and let me through, because I'm about to establish its new order.”

The Elf King found himself unable to speak again as the pressure increased. Several of the elf warriors fainted around him.

“I'll give you one chance to move aside obediently. If not, I don't mind taking your lives.”

The pressure suddenly lifted a lot, nearly sending him stumbling. As the Elf King regained his balance and was about to send a scathing remark back, the man suddenly stopped smiling just as the space behind him showed signs of teleportation. The intruder turned around, coming face to face with a man that bore golden eyes, as the remaining pressure disappeared instantly.

The Demon King seemed amused as he calmly took in the state the elves were in before looking at the intruder, “Who are you supposed to be?”

“...” The man did not respond for a moment, just taking in the sight of the demon in front of him before slowly and steadily answering, “I'm... someone who once forsook this world.”

Chapter Text

The leaves around them gently rustled. Everything was quiet.

The elves behind the mysterious individual were gathering up their fainted warriors and retreating. Cavert looked towards the Elf King who was showing signs of exhaustion and focused his gaze back at the intruder.

Everything about this man screamed unnatural and foreign, he couldn't tell which race he belonged to. If anything, he reminded Cavert of his own existence. A being that shouldn't be.

Long white hair that faded to black at the halfway point. Multicolored eyes. The robes were a mix of tight and loose. He would look like a perfect mish-mash of black and white, if it weren't for those eyes.

One looked just as unnatural as his own, with black sclera and a shining golden iris. The other appeared more normal with a white sclera but a vibrant red eye.

He put on a smile, “You said you once forsook this world. What do you mean by that?”

The man quietly looked at him before he, too, put on a slight but genuine smile, “Exactly what I said. There is no worth in a world like this.”

“Then why are you here now?” Cavert motioned behind the man, at the World Tree, “What brings you to this place?”

“I am here to restore order.” He tilted his head to the side, “I never intended to do anything else.”

The Elf King glared at the intruder's back, “You were threatening us!”

There was silence. Cavert's lips twitched as he looked at the elf and back at the man, “Aren't you going to respond?”

“Why should I?” He answered, as if Cavert was asking something pointless.

“Then can I ask you to state why you threatened them?”

The man's stare turned unimpressed but he complied, “I was told it was better to ask for permission. This does not mean I am willing to back down.” He shrugged his shoulders, “They should have realized by now that I am not an opponent they can fight.”

“It's not like we can just let you come here. You were clearly aiming for the World Tree!” The Elf King spat, “The World Tree is afraid of you!”

The man ignored him again.

Cavert thought this was getting rather old, even he wouldn't ignore people like this, “Do you know why the World Tree would be afraid of you?”

The individual sighed, “Why would it not? You should have realized, right? You and I are the same.”

“...” He couldn't deny he had noticed it, “A World Error.”

“That is correct.” He smiled again, “I am also a being of a higher order. You are a Demon King, but I am different.”

“How so?” What higher could there be that didn't already exist in this world? That he didn't know about?

The man looked delighted as he opened his arms. “I am Balance, a Demigod.”

The Elf King chocked and Cavert was in shock himself, “There are no gods in this world.”

“Because it is immature?” Balance shook his head, “This world is no longer the same you once knew.”

“Why isn't it? And what does that have to do with you being a demigod?”

The demigod looked a little bored, “It means this world has been destroyed once already. I was formed before that, so you would not know about it.”

The news sank in slowly. If this world had been destroyed, how was it recovered? Why wasn't it fixed completely with someone only coming now to do so?

There was no guarantee he was telling the truth. The World had definitely been fine the last time Cavert had spoken with the Elf King. There's no way something as significant as the world being destroyed could have happened without them noticing.

Balance appeared to know of his reservations and actually turned slightly to look at the Elf King, “Since someone keeps wanting to talk, I will let him talk about something. King of the Elves, what is the Will of the World telling you?”

“...” The elf trembled and kept quiet.

Balance chuckled quietly, “That is right. There is nothing.” He turned back to Cavert. “The Will of the World is still operating in a sense but in truth, the whole world is thoroughly broken. This world is in shambles.”

The Demon King turned towards his fellow King who only glanced at him before averting his gaze and nodding. “Something is definitely broken.” He admitted, “But I don't think it's to that extend.”

Cavert turned towards Balance, “Is it really completely broken? I don't think we would be here if that was the case.”

“Someone has prevented its collapse so far.” Balance revealed and crossed his arms, “It would be surprising if you could tell. He actually overstrained his divinity for this.”

“A demigod like you?”

The demigod hesitated for a second before he answered with a slight grimace, “No, it was a full god.”

The Demon King laughed and steered the topic back to course, “What do you intend to do with the World Tree?”

“I do not intend to do anything to it. I will merely use it as a medium to get to the World's code.”

The Elf King spoke up again, “Is that the only way to do it?”

Cavert shot him a look. Balance avoided his eyes but answered regardless. “It is not, but this is the easiest.” He clicked his tongue, “The World Tree is likely only afraid because it is unable to do much right now yet still recognizes how large of an existence I am. It is not like this tree can deduce my thoughts.”

The King of the Elves was even more unhappy now, “That gives no reassurance that you're not lying. You could still be trying to harm the World Tree!”

He seemed annoyed and actually replied without being asked, “And what, exactly, would I get from such a pointless action?” He glared at the elf, “I could just let this world rot. It is of no importance to me. And I will remind you again-” Cavert could see the Elf King's posture crumble, like he was under a lot of pressure, “-I am not willing to back down. I do not mind taking the lives of a few elves either. You are no one important.”

Cavert hummed as the other King was released, “As you're named 'Balance', can I assume your role is also in that direction?”

Balance calmed down significantly and looked at Cavert like he was never in a bad mood at all, “If by 'role' you mean what I am the demigod of, then yes. I am the Demigod of Balance.”

“Wouldn't it be bad then if you indiscriminately killed others?”

The demigod appeared amused and smiled brightly, “It depends. But in the current situation? No. Besides, I am about to change this world's laws. It would not even pick up those lives lost since they would have occurred before the change.” He shook his head, “And I can just save a few lives in exchange later, it is not like it is hard.”

“...” That was a rather... careless way to think about it, “Okay.” Cavert nodded, “Then how do you intent to fix the World's 'code'?”

“Explaining that would take too much time.” He shrugged, “I will just properly put it back together, adjust a few things here and there.”

“Adjust what?” The Demon King couldn't let him do things that would harm his plans.

As if knowing what he was thinking, the deity smiled, “Are you not sick of being hated? It must be tiring- having the World hate you and all you create.” He lifted his hands in an outward arc, “I will let you become a 'natural' existence within this world.”

Cavert froze, “What.”

The Elf King did as well, and so did the remaining elves. The whole world came to a standstill.

The silence was broken by the chuckling demigod, “There is no need to be so shocked. Since we are starting a new age anyway, why not? I see nothing wrong with demonkind existing.” He gently looked at Cavert with an underlying meaning the King could not decipher, “Let us all become 'natural', this is just the first step.”

The Demon King couldn't keep his composure, “Shouldn't there be some god opposing you in this?”

“No.” He replied jovial, “The only gods who matter in this instance either endorse my actions or are to be ignored.” He smiled softly, “Your Majesty, do you not want to be happy?”

Cavert couldn't reply to that. Did he want to be happy? All he wanted at this point was to finally rest.

It seemed as if the other already knew that, “Do not give up just yet. Since everything is changing, you might even find some enjoyment.”

“Don't presume to know me.” He glared at the other.

Balance pretended not to see the scathing gaze, “The shackles that bind you will disappear. People you have never met before, feelings you have never felt, a life you have never lived. We offer all that to you.”

“There's no reason for you to do this.” he spat.

“There is.” He rebutted. “Demon King Cavert, your existence is worth so much more than you think. At least try.”

How was he supposed to talk to this stubborn guy? Now that they were talking about Cavert's own business, he started to ignore him, too.

And how did he know his name? Was is because he was a demigod?

“There is no need to argue about this.” Balance shook his head, “I will change the way this world works. See for yourself first, maybe you will like it after all.”

“So you never intended to take anyone's opinion into account at all.”

“I thought I was fairly obvious about that.” Balance laughed, he looked amused as he shook his head again, “I am not willing to back down and even if you can convince me, there are four others willing to do what I did. I recommend you let me do it, I am most suited for the job.”

Cavert was surprised, and decided to discard the previous topic. For his own sake. “There are four others like you?”

“Well, technically, there are five.” He suddenly looked annoyed, “I have no idea where the last one is and he would probably mess it all up anyway.”

The Elf King looked aghast, “There's five of you?”

Expectedly, he was ignored.

“Aren't you worried what he's getting up to then?” The Demon King questioned.

“So long as he does not disturb us, we do not care. If he does... I will just say even he would have problems with four against one.”

“Why would he act against you if you're fixing the world?”

“Just because we are demigods born in this world does not mean we care about it.” He tsk-ed, “It is not like we had forsaken this world because we had to, we did it because we wanted to.”

“Yet you're here.” Cavert pointed out.

“Yet I am here.” He sighed, and suddenly had an extremely bored look on his face, “I have no desire to get into my motivations at this point in time. Let's end this, we can't talk forever.”

It was impossible not to understand the other was running from the question, Cavert chuckled, “I have one last question.”

Balance was already starting to disappear into particles which were heading towards the World Tree, “What is it?”

“Why are you willing to talk to me?”

Balance had ignored the Elf King and the elves but was perfectly happy to talk to Cavert. He would even answer the questions he had previously deigned not to answer.

The demigod seemed taken aback for a moment, before he laughed gently, “I wonder.” He started to smile as he slowly finished disappearing, “Vater.”

Chapter Text

The month went by slowly. Between coming back from the monster hunt, reporting on the attempted assassination and unsuccessfully grounding Deceiver for following along, Deon hadn't been very busy. He had actually been able to truly relax for once and spent time with his son.

The thirteen-year old was having fun reading a book while leaning on him as Deon read his own book. The child was growing fast, he was already a little taller than Deon had been at fourteen.

It was half an hour later when Deceiver suddenly sprang up and retrieved something from between his stack of books, “I nearly forgot about this.” It was an opened letter, “Here, this was for you.”

Deon accepted the parchment and nearly threw it when he saw the sender, “Where did you get this?” 'Deon' felt a vein pop, “They have the nerve to send you a letter...!”

“No, no, it's not for me!” Deceiver shook his head and stopped 'Deon' from ripping the parchment, “I just read it because I was curious, honest! It's for you!”

“...” 'Deon' glared at the offending letter and gritted his teeth. They had no right to talk to him! They were just trying to use him! They hated him!

“Dad, can't you just read it?” Deceiver looked at him with pleading eyes, “Please.”

'Deon' looked at his child for a long, excruciating moment before giving up, “Okay, okay.”

He could read one letter. It wouldn't kill him. War didn't kill him, how could a letter? He would just read it and never think about it again. For Deceiver's sake. After all, how could he say no when the child looked at him like this?

He ignored his shaking hands and took the content out of the envelope and begun to read.

It was noon the next day that 'Deon' pulled out a chair in a nearby restaurant and sat down, taking off his hooded cloak and mask. He was in a private room together with Cletter and Dame Lianne who were acting as his guards. They sat down beside him. Opposite them was the Hardt family. No one spoke, no one made a move.

It was 'Deon' who tossed the envelope on the table, “You said you wanted to meet. I'm here.”

He could feel Cletter tense up more than he could see it. Lianne kept calm. The members of the Hardt family, if possible, only looked more uneasy.

“We...” The Lord inhaled and begun, “-have a lot to talk about.” He looked at his wife and son singular before he looked back at Deon, “Do you... have any questions? About- about back then?”

“What would you want me to ask?” 'Deon' spat, “'Why did you abandon me?', 'Why did you throw me away?', 'Are you sad I didn't die?!', it's not like any of that matters!”

They all flinched. Lianne beside him also stared at him in shock, frozen completely. He paid them no mind.

“I don't care about any of that! It's done and over with! You can't just erase the past!”

Lady Hardt looked stricken, “We're not trying to! Deon-”

He interrupted her with a glare, “Talk what you came here to talk about. Otherwise, I'll leave right now.”

“Okay.” Count Hardt replied slowly, “We'll talk.” He took out a stack of papers and laid them on the table, pulling out two in particular that he handed to 'Deon'.

Lianne accepted them in his stead before handing them over. 'Deon' barely glanced at them before he grimaced. In black on white, the words 'Request for Correction' were written. It was half-burnt and seemed to be old, “What is this?”

What kind of ploy was this? Did they prepare well in advance to swindle him, should he live? Squeeze any use they could out of him? Did they really? Of course they did!

“There's more-!” The Counts explained before 'Deon' could explode, “This whole stack details not only all the times we sent forms but also every time we went to the palace. We tried everything, we did!” He hung his head, and wrung his hands, “...There's also more in these papers. Please look at the other paper in your hand, look at the content, we have evidence we can show you.”

'Deon' was suspicious but decided to take a look not like it would make a difference even if they changed their mind, they still sent him to war at the parchment.

He crumpled the paper in an effort not to let it fall, “Where's your evidence.” If the glare earlier could shut up Lady Hardt his mother?, this one could freeze hell over.

As Count and Countess Hardt were frozen, Cruel pulled the relevant papers from the stack and handed them over, “Here.” Depite his calm demeanor, 'Deon' could see he was nervous.

He took the papers and slowly went over them as everything went quiet. The only sound the shuffling of paper.

The paper earlier had claimed Cruel as the original target of enlistment it must be a lie, not him of course it was him. Why would they send Cruel? They send him because they didn't want Cruel to die. Cruel stood by because he didn't want to go himself. Cruel was a coward.

Was he?

Had Deon been mistaken all this time? Was this the truth? His head started to hurt as he tried to comprehend the words on the page. Everything was written down neatly.

The fact that someone had tampered with the document, the evidence was written and categorized. It even went on to go through many of the correction forms that never reached their intended target. But there was one thing missing.

His hands couldn't stop shaking, “Who did this?”

His father hesitated, “We'll take care of it-”

His voice rose, “Who did this!”

He barely registered the blood flowing down his nose. He ignored it in favor of answers.

It was Cruel who threw a nervous glance at Dame Lianne before handing her a document. Her eyes grew wide. He then spoke up, “Duke Starbe Illuster.”

“I never even met him.” 'Deon's' hands trembled, he gritted his teeth, hanging onto the last shred of hope that this was all a giant hoax. That they were just trying to trick him. “Why would someone I've never met want to do that to me?”

“...” Cruel took a deep breath, “We don't know.” As if afraid that 'Deon' would discard whatever goodwill they had managed to gain, he continued to talk, “We're already looking into it.”

He put a few papers on the table. Dame Lianne put them in front of 'Deon' but the latter did not reach out to take them.

“We checked everyone around him at the time of your enlistment.” His father? explained, “We will figure it out. Take the documents and read them over carefully, we can talk again then. So, Deon- could you... could you give us one more chance?”

“One more chance for what?” 'Deon' was tired. This whole conversation was tiring. They expected him to believe all that? Just like that?

“We just want you back.” The Count replied, looking pained, “You should have never been taken from us in the first place. We love you, Deon.”

He was very quiet when he spoke, giving a broken, hollow laugh, “You expect me to believe that?”

“Deon-!”

“Then why couldn't you just love me to begin with!” 'Deon' shot up and run out.

He ran and ran, completely ignoring the people around him. He ignored the hot noon sun on his skin, not noticing that he had forgotten his cloak.

He just kept running for a long, long time, no matter how tired he was or how much his legs and feet ached. By the time he stopped and realized where he was, he was looking up at three moons illuminating the sky.

He'd actually run so far out? Hysterical laughter spilled out of his lips. He felt like crying.

Fuck, he was so tired.

He rubbed his face and took a deep breath, forcefully locking down his emotions. This wasn't the place to cry.

He was already here, so he slowly made his way to the Demon King's castle. He could go home later. They would understand. He just needed some time. Just a bit.

He was greeted at the gate by Ririnell whose face immediately fell upon seeing him.

“Sir Arut!” She fretted, “Where's your hood?! Your condition-! Your skin is already red! Why did you come here like this...!”

Deon tried to crack a smile, but it only made her look more worried.

“I'm calling Ben right now! You just stay here!”

“There's no need-” she was gone. He sighed. There was no need to be so worried about him. He would recover on his own. Sunburn wasn't anything new.

“Demon?” He startled at the voice of the Demon King. He looked up at the demon who was looking at him with what seemed like worry. “Are you okay?” Was he okay? Of course not. “You look tired.” He was.

But it's not like anyone truly cared. “I'm... fine-”

“Don't lie to me.” Deon barely noticed as he was teleported into the office as Cavert sighed. The demon gently held his shoulder, “What's wrong?”

“...” Nothing, he wanted to say, everything was fine. But everything came crashing back down all at once. He didn't even know what was real anymore. His head hurt when he thought about it. And he just- he just ran from it all.

He flinched as a warm hand brushed his cheek, wiping something away, “Demon...?”

He looked at Cavert, wanting to respond, but something was blocking his throat. Funny, he couldn't even see him clearly, his whole sight was blurry.

The hand was on his cheek again. Cavert sounded worried, “Why are crying?”

Was he?

“I-” his voice cracked and he finally registered the wet tears, “I just can't-”

He went to wipe his own tears, pushing Cavert's hand away but the tears wouldn't stop. Warm arms enveloped and pulled him close and Deon just didn't care anymore. He started crying in earnest.

Cavert quietly hugged and let him.

Deon was quietly sleeping on his bed as Ben carefully treated the sunburn on his ears and jaw. His eyes were red and dried out with tear tracks still visible on his face. The blood from his nose had long been wiped away. No one dared to make a sound in the presence of the irate Demon King.

Quite frankly, Cavert still had no idea what was wrong. Deon had never answered him. He had just kept crying and he hadn't disturbed him. The human clearly needed to let it all out first.

But that didn't mean he couldn't find out on his own.

There was quiet knock on the door and Devilania entered. She kept quiet and just waited for her orders.

“Go to the human realm and figure out what put him in this state.” Cavert commanded with crossed arms, always looking at Deon and never regarding her at all, “And give me everything from when he met Jaykar at the border to now. Every. Single. Thing.”

“Yes, Sir.” She replied before growing nervous, “About Sir Arut's identity in the human realm...”

Well, it was true she couldn't start much of an investigation without it, “The third Hero.”

“What?”

He shot her a glare, “Do I need to repeat myself?”

“No, not at all!” She shook her head frantically, “I'll have the results as soon as possible.”

She left with that and Cavert dismissed Ben shortly after. He was left alone with his commander.

It was clear Deon hadn't been sent back by the Empire, he had come here on his own. That was fine, Cavert would take much better care of him then they could. He would make sure Deon would have no reason to ever cry like that again.

He hated seeing him cry.

But it also made him feel inexplicably guilty. It wasn't an emotion Cavert was familiar with. He may not wish to ever cause Deon harm, but that didn't mean he had never done that.

He thought back on that day over nine years ago and felt regret.

Deon... wouldn't find out about that, right?

Chapter Text

It was a very quiet morning. Cavert was sitting on the sofa in Deon's room, reading a book. Truthfully, he wasn't getting much reading done. Deon also hadn't woken up once during the night, to no one's surprise as he had not only ran all the way to the demon realm but was emotionally exhausted on top of that.

Additionally, Devilania had returned from her trip rather fast. She was back before the night was even over. It seems Deon hadn't done much after meeting Jaykar and had just hung out at home. It was only the day before yesterday that something had changed as he had received a letter asking to meet the next day.

The letter was from the Hardt family. Although she could not determine what exactly had been talked about, she had a rough idea. She managed to take a look at the papers that Deon's subordinates had brought back. Devilania had been angry as she recalled what she had read.

Demons could not have children but were aware that humans usually treasured theirs. Children were soft, squishy things that needed to be protected. It wasn't really something they could understand, Demon hierarchy depended on strength. If a demon died, it was because they were weak. Demons had their strength and, if you took their loss of power from mana use into account, they would only go from strong to weak.

Of course, mana alone did not decide everything, there were many talented and strong individuals among the demons without it. But the point was that demons did not start out with a weak foundation.

Humans did. So weak they couldn't even walk for a long time after being born. Small and useless in a fight.

Normally, this wouldn't bother any demon. What did the humans actions have to do with them?

But Deon... was someone dear to them.

That's why Devilania was angry. Everyone, including himself, had grown fond of him rather quickly. And Devilania was one of the few who had seen Deon's state after he returned this time. The normally fearsome and steadfast Commander had broken down.

Perhaps they finally realized that despite everything, he was still human. That issues they wouldn't even blink at might affect him greatly.

Like sticking a child into war.

Cavert dryly thought that Oel might be busy in the coming days, as the go-to human expert. He had a sour taste in his mouth as his 2^nd Commander kept talking. That taste only worsened when she brought up Duke Illuster's possible involvement in the case.

She cursed the man and his audacity to disregard his own race's morals. Cavert kept his mouth shut. The man's co-conspirator was right in front of her.

Deon must never find out about this. Cavert could not stand the thought of Deon hating him.

His head was killing him. Did he have a hangover?

Deon groggily opened his eyes to a familiar-but-unfamiliar ceiling. It took him a moment to realize it was his room in the demon realm. The memories started pouring in shortly after.

It did not help his hurting head. He sat up slowly, every bone in his body protesting. Deon wasn't surprised, it would be a miracle if he wasn't bound to his bed for a few days after he overstrained himself by running all the way here.

Why did he run into the demon realm anyway? Couldn't his feet have brought him anywhere else? Now everything hurt. He idly wondered what time it was.

“Drink some water.” A calm voice sounded to his left.

Deon looked up only to see the Demon King who was holding a glass of water towards him. He nodded in thanks and took it, using it as an excuse to hide his face as he drank.

At least the man didn't seem angry despite being cried on. Deon thought he would be.

He kept holding the cup as he sat it down in his lap, “I'm sorry. I lost my composure yesterday.” He swallowed, “I'll accept any punishment-”

A gentle pat on his head stopped him, “There's no need for that.” Cavert sat down on the side of the bed, facing him, “Do you want to talk about it? I heard it helps.”

Deon wasn't sure what to say. Thinking about it made his head hurt again.

“You don't have to.” Cavert assured.

“No, I...” It wasn't that he didn't want to talk. “I just... don't know what to think. If I believe everything they told me then- Everything I ever believed was a lie. Everything I- so many things I did and thought, wouldn't they all... become pointless?”

“You already believe them.” It wasn't a question. Deon knew the Demon King had seen right through him.

“I do.” He whispered, “It's just that I feel so... lost. And empty. Like everything suddenly lost its meaning. I hated them.” He admitted, tears already falling again, “I hated them so much.” He gripped the cup in his hand tighter, voice cracking as he confessed, “I wanted to kill them. I would have, had it not been for Deceiver. I just- I was going to kill my own parents.”

“But you didn't.” He reminded, “They're still alive.”

“But I would have! I nearly did!” He cried, “When I stood before the Emperor, I nearly told him that was my wish. I could have sent them all to the grave for something that wasn't their fault.”

“Demon-”

“What am I supposed to do now?” He hiccuped, “They were right not to love someone like me, I-”

“Deon!”

He froze in shock and looked at the Demon King blankly. The man ran a hand through his hair, clearly frustrated.

Cavert looked him in the eye, “Stop thinking like that. Nothing happened, everything is still fine.” He did not break eye contact as he kept talking. Strangely, it made Deon feel calmer, “Devilania saw the documents. She said they tried to get you back. Why would they try so hard if they didn't love you?”

Deon didn't know. But that was all he ever knew. His parents barely interacted with him and even Cruel could be short with him.

“Your family is alive. No matter what issues you have, you can talk about them. If you still think they hate you after, there's no need to interact further.”

Deon nodded numbly. He then whispered quietly, “There's just something that makes no sense to me. I want to- I do believe them. It just doesn't make any sense.”

“What doesn't?”

“That- Duke Illuster.” He didn't notice Cavert freeze, “It makes no sense. What grudge do I have with him? I still haven't met him. I never met any other nobles besides a few kids I- well, I was the one who got beat up.” He laughed dryly. “It would make way more sense for one of their parents to do something like this. Or if anyone wanted to hurt the County or even my parents, it would make more sense to go after Cruel. Personal feelings aside, he's the heir. That would cause way more damage.”

Everyone always thought the Hardt's hated him. Whether that was true or not, that was the word going around. Many even said he was an illegitimate child of his father's or a product of his mother's affair. The rumors were endless. Nobody would care or put value in an unwanted child like him.

He inhaled, “It really makes no sense for Duke Illuster to do something like that. But I don't know why my parents would lie to me about that.”

There was a moment of silence, and Deon suddenly felt dread. Cavert's voice was quiet as he spoke, “Your parents were telling the truth.”

“What?” The dread worsened. He knew whatever Cavert said next, he wouldn't like it.

“...” Cavert looked at him, like something was stuck in his throat as he opened his mouth and didn't speak. And when he finally did- “I made a deal with him.” -Deon wished he'd just kept it shut.

He didn't react, he just... stared, as his mind processed what the Demon King had said.

“...I'm sorry.” Cavert admitted but Deon barely registered it. “I really am. I hadn't thought anything about it. The duke proposed a bet to me and I accepted. I would have accepted any bet so long as it sounded interesting enough. I was bored. I know that just makes it worse.”

...Deon didn't know what to feel. He was just numb to it by now. He wanted to lash out but he didn't have the energy to. He just felt tired again.

“Get out.”

“Demon-”

“I just want to be alone for a while.” He muttered, “At least give me that.”

“...Okay.” Cavert sat up and headed towards the door, sending one last, uncertain look at Deon before opening the door.

Deon did not look up as he opened his lips one last time, “Don't let Ben in. Or Ed.”

He couldn't deal with their concern right now. Cavert nodded and the door finally fell closed behind him.

Right. There was no grand reason why the Duke sent Deon to hell. It was just his luck. His terrible, rotten luck.

He was just a means to an end.

It was two days later, as Cavert was sulking away in his office, that Deon left his room again and entered the office.

Cavert regretted opening his mouth, but it had just flown out. He'd possibly shot down any chance of Deon staying with the demons. Dashed any chance of Deon being around him.

This was the opposite of what he'd wanted. And now that he looked at Deon's cold and uncaring gaze, he only regretted it more.

They were alone in the office and neither seemed to want to speak first.

Cavert finally gave in first, “Do you have any questions?”

“I do.” Deon admitted, with no change in his demeanor, “A few, actually.”

“Go ahead.” There was no point in denying answers now.

The other nodded, “Did you approach the Duke first?”

Cavert shook his head, “He summoned me using an old sacrificial ritual.”

“Is that why you agreed to the bet?”

“No.” Cavert admitted, “He wanted a contract. I had no intention of entering one with him.”

Deon looked unconvinced, “Then the bet?”

“He proposed it, likely because he figured I would be interested. A last attempt to get what he wants.” He thought back on that day, “He said he saw a young master that did not look human and was born frail and sickly. The bet was on how long you would survive.”

“What did you bet?” Deon's face finally changed. Cavert didn't think it was because he was truly interested on how short-lived they expected him to be.

“I bet you'd survive.”

“Why?” Deon changed back to that indifferent expression.

“I thought it would be more interesting to bet on the losing side.” He replied quietly, “Frankly, your chances weren't high.”

“Your bet was to simply observe and see the result?”

“I have no doubt the Duke did everything in his power to make you die.” Cavert explained, “That's why you ended up on the frontlines as a Commander. I never intervened.”

“Why was I sent to the demon realm?”

“I asked for it.” Cavert averted his eyes, “It was mostly curiosity. By now, it's become kind of a game.”

Deon sighed, “With the Emperor.” At the Demon King's nod, he continued, “I see. Why did you make me a Commander?”

“You had the qualifications. You were strong enough and smart enough. It would be more interesting for me, as well.”

“All your care was for the sake of your fun, too, right?”

Cavert shook his head frantically, “In the beginning. Not anymore- I really do care about you now.”

Deon nodded calmly. After a moment of silence, he spoke again, “I'm not going to the Emperor's side.” At Cavert's surprised look, he continued, “I won't be on yours either.”

Cavert expected this, but it still hurt. He knew he had no right to feel like this. Deon had been hurt far more by him.

“There's no way the Emperor wasn't aware of what was happening, if only after the war ended.” Deon explained, sounding more emotionless than ever, “He chose to keep quiet. He still kept using me. I can't forgive either. Right now, I hate him as much as I hate Starbe Illuster and you.”

The Demon King flinched.

The human closed his eyes, “You've been a lot nicer to me than they have.” He opened them again and looked at the King, “You and the Emperor can keep playing your game. Except now I'm aware of it.”

Alright, that was good. At least Deon wouldn't leave completely. Cavert would just have to be careful and patient. He wouldn't hurt Deon ever again.

“The only things I care about right now are my family and the Lofty Knights. I don't care which one of you manages to convince me to stay with you as long as their safety is guaranteed. So, I'll add three conditions of my own to the game. You're in luck, the Emperor will have to figure it out on his own.” He looked Cavert straight in the eyes, “Because you were nicer to me than they were, I'll give you a hint to one of them: I have a child.”

?

???

He knew that! What kind of hint was that?!

Chapter Text

“I see you have screwed up.”

Cavert glared at the sudden intruder, apparently not caring about his identity, “You sound a little cruder than last time.”

Balance shrugged, “I am a little tired. The state of this world was really bad. It is not entirely done, but it will recover the rest on its own. That includes any adjustments I have made.”

“Did you come here just to say that?”

“Not really.” The demigod wouldn't just admit he was only here to meet his other father. But it appeared he had missed him. “Do you want some help with your problem?” He could play mediator.

The Demon King's glare deepened, “I'm not going to manipulate him anymore.”

“I did not mean to imply that.” Balance countered, “I meant that I could help mediate.”

“There's nothing to mediate. I'm aware of what I did and why, so is Demon.”

“You can call him Deon in my presence.” He replied, “I'm aware of his actual name.”

The Demon King gazed at him calmly, a bit of interest peeking through the glum demeanor, “You seem to be open to the idea of speaking to him.”

Balance was confused, “Why wouldn't I be?”

“The Elf King.” Cavert stated, as if he was supposed to know what that means.

“What about him?”

“You didn't talk to him.”

“Why would I?”

The demon just stared at him for a moment before visibly giving up, “Nevermind.”

“Are you not a little too depressed about this whole issue?”

The glare was back, “What's it to you? Why do my issues with Deon concern you anyway?”

“I'm just curious.” Balance lied, “Is it not strange that you are so caught up about it? Even if you care, is it reasonable to be so affected by one person?”

In the end, it wasn't an entire lie. He was curious. Balance knew Deceiver had already messed with the demon's side of things a little when they initially fixed up the world. Perhaps that's why it became so easy for the Demon King to feel guilt and regret towards a human.

His brother had caused things to become way too complicated way too fast. Now they had a love-sick Demon King and an angry human to deal with. Well, as far as those two were concerned, at least the difficult part was over now.

He decided to be merciful to his father, who was clearly the densest person alive, “You should stop thinking like a demon about it, and more like a human. Maybe try to describe your symptoms to a human.”

Cavert looked incredulous, “I'm not sick.”

“My apologies, I meant your feelings.” he smiled dryly.

“There's nothing wrong with them.” The King shot back, “I know what fondness is.”

What a pitiable fool.

“Wipe that look off your face.” Cavert grumbled, “Is there anything else you're here for? I would hate to waste an esteemed demigod's time.”

The sarcasm wasn't lost on Balance. Heavens, this man was difficult. “Just take my advice into account. That is all.”

He left with that, and Cavert was left alone in his office.

The demigod was finally gone. He was finally alone with his thoughts again.

He didn't need to talk to anyone about his feelings, he was well aware of them. Whatever strange thing the demigod had thought up in his head was none of his concern.

Cavert just needed some time to think on how to get Deon to forgive him and join his side. He wouldn't rush it- that would just hurt Deon more.

The most important thing was to sabotage the Emperor's side of things. The man was unaware Deon was aware of what they were doing and would not know about Deon's three conditions. Cavert was aware one of them concerned the human's son, the other should have something to do with Deon's family as he had mentioned that he did not care about which side he joined as long as they were safe.

But he didn't know what the last condition was.

The Lofty Knights were mentioned in connection to his family, so it shouldn't have anything to do with them. There wasn't really anyone else in the Empire he was close to. He was at a loss. What was the final condition?

A knock startled him out of his thoughts, “Come in.”

Jaykar entered the door shortly after and closed it behind him, “My King.”

“Is there an issue?”

Jaykar shook his head, “No, we successfully escorted Commander Demon to the border.”

“That's good.” Cavert acknowledged. Deon had left shortly after assuring the others that he was fine. He wasn't but Cavert wasn't going to point it out. “He received quite a shock before he returned here, I hope nobody will hold it against him.”

The 1^st Commander swallowed at the implied threat, “I don't think anyone would.”

That was true. To them, he was still the terrifying Commander of the 0^th Corps. He could kill them in the blink of an eye. If anything, some might be afraid that bringing the incident up might put them in danger instead.

“Was it... okay to let him go back?” The other questioned, “Maybe a few more days of rest would have been better.”

“Demon did not want to.” Cavert admitted. Ben had not been happy to be denied access to his patient, even more so when that patient insisted on returning to the human realm as soon as he left Cavert's office. “He insisted on finishing his mission.”

Deon had indeed insisted on that, saying that since he was their spy, he would do his best to do his job. And since his 'current location' was the Empire, he was going to spy on the Empire. This of course implied he'd do his best to dig up information on the demons the moment the Emperor officially sent him back.

“Is there anything else of concern?” The Demon King wondered.

Jaykar hesitated.

“You can say it.”

“That man that just left... Who was that?”

Had Balance left through the door? He hadn't come in that way, so Cavert had not payed attention to the way he left aside from the fact that he had left at all.

“An acquaintance. I met him at the World Tree's place not long ago. What about him?”

“Doesn't he look familiar?” Jaykar wondered, “I met Commander Demon's child not too long ago. He seemed familiar to me- but not in his resemblance to the Commander- and so did this man. He gives me the same type of feeling.”

“What kind of feeling?” Cavert pressed. If he could get something about Deon's son, he might get some clues on the man's condition.

The Commander hesitated again, “They just seem familiar. Uncomfortably so. I feel like I should know why, but it just won't occur to me.”

The Demon King was disappointed, “I see. If you find out what it is, tell me.”

“Understood.” Jaykar left with that.

Now Cavert was alone again. With no indication on what to do next. He was already done with the paperwork, too. Should he actually take up the demigod's advice and talk with a human? At worst, he will have killed some time.

Even if he didn't bother talking about his 'feelings' that the demigod insisted were important, a human would know best about human issues. He might be able to get some suggestions on how to reconcile.

But where would he find one? He couldn't just go and ask any human either.

Well, that would solve itself with time. He stood up and thought about the location of the closest border that didn't lead to the Empire. It would be bad if word got back to Deon.

There should be one relatively close to Esperanas.

He arrived and passed through the border. There was no resistance as he did so. He had been wondering ever since the demigod said he would mess with- adjust the world's laws.

The place he landed was a forest, not that that was much of a surprise, many borders led to forests and mountains. He wandered around for a time, as he was in no particular hurry, when he spotted a young lady who had her back turned to him. He hadn't planned to casually select who he was going to talk to but there wasn't anyone else around anyway.

If it went badly and she tried to run and/or attack him? Well, he could always kill her.

“Good morning.” He called out, casting an illusion to hide his eyes. “I was wondering if you would mind helping me with something?”

The young lady flinched and turned around. Red eyes seemed startled to see him. It reminded him of Deon and his gaze unwittingly softened.

“Good morning.” She replied politely, “What is it that I can help you with? Sir...?”

“My name is Cavert. I'm having some personal issues with a... subordinate. Regarding my feelings, that some insist I need 'clarification' on.” He hesitated at the form of address, “I was advised to get help from someone unbiased. Someone who didn't know any of us.”

“It's nice to meet you Sir Cavert. I am called Observer.” She smiled, “What exactly happened?”

Human's sure had weird naming customs, he had noticed an uptick in names that were verbs or adjectives.

“It's like this:” He begun, “I have gotten rather close to that subordinate. He's my direct and closest one. I am rather fond of him.”

“And the issue...? Why do you need clarification?”

“We recently got into a big... fight. Entirely my fault. I was told I was too hung up over it.”

“So you feel... guilty?”

Cavert nodded, “Yes.”

She looked thoughtful, “That should be normal? Feeling guilty when you've wronged someone, I mean.”

“Ah, the hung up part wasn't about that.” He corrected, “I understand he hates me right now and why, I'm just really... sad about it.” He hesitated, “Again, it was my fault. He has every right to stay away and I won't force him into anything. But now I'm afraid he'll be cold to me forever and eventually go away completely. I don't want him to leave.”

“Are you sure you're just fond of him?” She looked skeptical.

“I am sure.” He affirmed.

“Okay.” She tilted her head slightly, her black hair swaying slightly as she did so, eyes gently narrowed. “You say you had gotten rather close to him before the fight. Why?”

“...” Now he had to hesitate, “Well, he has this... really nice smile. He also looks really pretty when he's happy. I wanted to see it more, so I hung around him more. So seeing him so unhappy now hurt. And I can't stand the thought of not seeing him anymore. I want to see him smile at me again. I want to hold him and never let go.”

She looked at him as though he was an idiot. He did not appreciate that.

Deon had barely been back a day and been absolutely smothered by the Lofty Knights and Deceiver when the explosion happened.

He hadn't dared to even think about the Hardt family in that time, not daring to confront the thought of talking with them again so soon. He just hugged Deceiver and refused to let go while slowly reading over all the documents Lianne had brought back from that failed encounter.

But the loud sound and resulting shockwave had completely stopped him from continuing. He hurried to the window and looked towards the origin of the disturbance. Smoke was rising from the east side of the palace.

Deon might have found this funny if it weren't for the fact that he was obligated to check what was going on. Curse this Hero title. Couldn't the Emperor have gotten attacked when he wasn't in the human realm?

He didn't want to help at all, especially with recent revelations. But he had to, so he sighed and strapped on his knives, heading towards the palace on horse.

The whole place was in chaos when he arrived. Guards were still stationed at the gates, trying to maintain some order among the concerned civilians and terrified staff. They let him through without any fuss once they saw him, so he dismounted and entered palace, hurrying towards the east side.

When he finally arrived, he saw the Emperor and Nemeseus along with a group of nobles and guards, the latter trembling while pointing their weapons towards the sky, where a single person floated while laughing maniacally.

With black hair and golden eyes, he wouldn't have looked all that strange for a human, but his sclera was pitch black. Like the Demon King, Deon realized.

This man was tall and definitely looked strong, with countless scars adorning his body. Also, he was floating. Humans could not float. And despite everything- Deon was certain Cavert would have told him if he had sent someone to the human realm. So he likely wasn't a demon.

If anything, he gave Deon an impression that he was similar to Deceiver.

The laughter had turned into a chuckle by the time Deon finished his thoughts. The man was observing them as the guards and soldiers got ready to attack him.

“Are you going to play with me?” He questioned and Deon felt a shiver run down his spine. They couldn't fight this man. He was too dangerous, he could feel it.

The soldiers readied their bows and took aim-

“Don't attack!” The palace shaman shouted over the crowd, “Absolutely don't attack!”

Deon snapped his head in her direction. Everyone did, even the enemy stopped and looked at her.

“Don't attack-” She shivered, “Don't attack this being.”

“He attacked the palace.” The Emperor spoke up, “He directly attacked in the heart of the Empire, you want to let this go?”

She frantically shook her head and glanced at the man before looking back at the ground in fright, “We cannot go against a being of absolute destruction. Your Majesty- this is a god. A demigod, but still a god! We cannot fight!”

Everyone froze. The Emperor looked at her in disbelief, “You cannot be serious. There is no reason for such an existence to be here, to attack the palace.”

“Hm~ It's because I felt like it?” The demigod interjected, “I must say, the design was terrible anyway, I did you a favor.”

Deon idly wondered whether this guy wanted to be attacked. He sure sounded like it.

The man arrogantly crossed his arms, “I could demolish the rest of it, too. Would make remodeling easier for you.”

“I will have to decline.” The Emperor shot back, clearly pissed off.

“Shame.” The man lamented theatrically before snorting, “But what makes you think I care about a mortal's opinion?”

“You-!”

“Your Majesty!” The shaman cried out, “Please don't fall for the provocations. We have to settle this peacefully.”

“I don't think he wants to settle this peacefully.” He shot back. “He looks like he wants a fight.”

“Actually, I would rather destroy your palace.” The demigod responded indifferently, “The building would put up way more resistance than you lot.”

Damn, Deon had to admit, this guy was talented. The Emperor looked ready to explode. He took back everything he said about not wanting to come here, this was great!

Unfortunately, Eduardo regained his composure at this time, though he was still notably vexed, “What do you want?”

“Nothing at all.” The man replied curtly. “I just like destroying stuff. Like your palace.”

The Emperor seems to have managed to ignore the dig, “Why? I'm sure there are plenty of places to destroy that aren't inhabited.”

“Oh, absolutely.” He admitted. “But where's the fun in that?”

The Emperor tried from a different angle, “Which god exactly are you?”

“Didn't the lady tell you? Did you turn deaf all of a sudden? Oh dear.” He laughed, “I am a demigod, the demigod of destruction. My name, too, is Destruction. I am destruction incarnate. I destroy stuff. Like poof, and your palace's gone, kinda destruction. There, did that reach your ear canals? I'm a little worried, since you seem to be getting old.”

Chapter Text

It looked like the Emperor wanted to scream.

Deon genuinely wanted to burst out laughing but not only would that be terribly rude, it would make him the center of attention in an instant. He did not want to be the center of attention.

“My bad.” Destruction 'earnestly' lamented, “I must not have been loud enough. Here, let me say it again-”

Something knocked into the demigod's head. The soldiers held their breath, not having noticed the projectile until it had hit him. Destruction caught it, it was a crumpled piece of paper. Clearly annoyed, he opened it, only to have his face twist up.

He now looked both annoyed and uncomfortable, “Okay, plan's changed, I'm not gonna crush your little palace anymore. In exchange, I'm gonna stay in your Empire for a bit.”

One of the nobles bristled, “Excuse me?”

“You heard me.” Destruction replied, pissed enough that no one dared speak up again.

The Emperor suddenly had a smirk on his face, “And what will your Excellency do in terms of accommodation?”

“Oh? Don't want me staying in your little palace, Mister Emperor?”

“Well, your Excellency said it yourself. The design is really not up to par.” Eduardo's face looked rather smug after he finished speaking.

“Well, you're right. I'll give you that.” The demigod admitted, “I suppose you do have some screws working in that head of yours. What a miracle.”

Deon could see the Emperor's eye twitch. As he contemplated the feasibility of bringing this guy to the demon realm and whether or not he was capable of getting through the Demon King's skin, the two kept talking.

“It's true that I don't want to stay in your palace.” Destruction explained slowly, “Then where should I stay? Do you wanna pick, or should I? What do you say, blondie?”

“Well, I can't have you staying somewhere that can't accommodate you. It would need to be someone of sufficient rank.”

“But I don't like cowardly people like that at all.” He generalized the nobles in an instant, “Why not someone on the stronger side? I hear your Empire has quite a few heroes.”

The Emperor kept quiet. Deon felt cold all of a sudden.

The demigod continued to talk, “Since there are only two here right now, why not let them play rock-paper-scissors? Loser has to deal with me!”

No! Deon did not want to play! Leave him out of this!

He took a tentative glance at Nemeseus, who looked back blankly. Fuck.

“That's a great idea.” Eduardo replied with a smile that Deon was sure contained some schadenfreude for them, “It's a harmless game with no fighting, that's good.”

“It saves time, too.” Destruction commented, “That means less time I have to spend around brainless fools like your nobles over there.” He snorted, “I can already feel my IQ dropping.”

“Well then, shall we get to it?” The Emperor turned to his bodyguard and Deon, “Best out of three or just the one win?”

“Just the one.” Destruction replied.

Deon hated it here. He took back his taking back, he didn't want to be here at all! He bit his lip and fully faced Nemeseus with the intention of getting it over with.

“Okay. Ready?” Eduardo asked, far too cheerful in Deon's opinion but he and the former general both nodded, “Go!”

He was framing this children's game way too seriously. In any case, all Deon had to do was win this round or manage a draw. The last call passed and he opened his hand.

Paper.

Deon had used paper. As he stared at Nemeseus scissors, he was frozen. It didn't even register at first that he'd lost, only that he had used paper.

Deon hadn't used paper. He was forming scissors when he opened his hand, but when he looked it had been paper.

He glanced at the demigod and saw the small, smug smile on the being's lips. This bastard had never intended to leave it up to chance!

It was only on the way back, sitting in the carriage provided by the Emperor, that Deon realized his hand hurt. When he opened his palm and looked at it again, a very small bruise was forming in the center of his hand. Deon assumed the being must have thrown a small stone to force his hand open.

So that's how the demigod managed to change it, though it doesn't explain how Deon initially missed it.

Although he was less of a threat than Deon initially thought, he still did not dare glare at him in retaliation. Aside from that initial explosion at the palace, the being hadn't really done anything, but he was still much stronger than Deon was so he wouldn't needlessly provoke him either.

The biggest and most important question was why he had caused Deon to lose the game. Sure, he was a recognized Hero, but surely a Hero with an actual Hero's fragment would be more interesting to a god?

Furthermore, the being stated he wanted to stay with someone of the stronger side and not a coward. Deon basically ticked both these boxes in the negatives. There's no way a god wouldn't know about that, right?

...Did this have something to do with the Demon King? Was it because he had been neutral between the two realms despite being human? Or was it because Deon, when putting conditions on the Emperor and Demon King's game, had given the demon realm an advantage?

But Deon couldn't possibly be a big enough factor to draw the gaze of the gods. It might demoralize the human realm a bit if he were to join the demons but that's about all it would do. His combat ability was...

Well, not that bad actually. He'd been remembering a bit here and there where he was fighting... something? Or someone? But nothing much and not very clearly. It didn't change that his body was in an all-year round terrible condition either. So, actually, still not much of a threat.

In fact, it wasn't only the reason for hanging around Deon that stumped him. From when he first showed up to when they boarded the carriage, this demigod had been nothing but rude to everyone and everything. Yet the moment the carriage door closed, he turned completely silent with his eyes closed.

Where did the change in attitude come from? Was this guy tired?

Deon could only breathe a sigh of relief when they arrived. Finally back home! Even if that meant he had to host a higher being.

“Dad!” The first one to greet him was Deceiver. Before he could warn his son that there was still someone else exiting the carriage, the young man had already hugged him.

As the demigod left the carriage, he started laughing. Deon wondered what he could do to keep Deceiver out of this. He couldn't let the child get hurt.

“There's no need to worry so much.” The laughing being said, “I wouldn't hurt a child. I have siblings.”

Having siblings didn't automatically mean one couldn't harm children, but he wasn't insane enough to point that out.

“...I see.” Deon nodded as a sign of understanding, “I'll go have the servants prepare your accommodations, feel free to look around in the meantime.”

Deon had his back turned on the two as he lead Deceiver to follow him into the manor and as such failed to witness the scathing glare they sent one another.

“There was no need to glare at me like that.” Destruction complained. Deceiver snorted.

Once all issues were settled and night fell, the two met up and spoke.

Deceiver shook his head, and pointed a finger accusingly, “You clearly freaked him out.”

His brother shrugged, “Not my fault. I never said anything bad to him. Anyway, you were the one who asked me to come.”

“I didn't ask you to cause a mess.”

“Details.” The other waved his hand dismissively, “I'm here, and I'm going to protect him in the human realm. The humans are also bound to be more careful with me being here. Which idiot would dare to attack near me?”

“Don't underestimate human stupidity.” Deceiver warned.

Destruction was skeptical, “Even if, no one will get through me.”

“They better not.” The white-haired 'child' responded, vexed.

They could probably go on like this all night. Deceiver was annoyed that he now had to deal with Destruction, even if the situation was created by his own hands. At least his father would be safer like this.

“How is the situation on your end?” Destruction piped up, “Any news?”

“...” Deceiver was silent for a moment before he sighed and slowly spoke, “It's going well so far, despite the latest hiccup.”

“Well, it's kinda your fault.” The other laughed, “You're the one that set up the meeting with the Hardt family.”

“It wasn't the Hardt family that caused the problem.” He grumbled, “I expected that and both Creation and Observer were looking out for it. What I didn't expect was that the Demon King would run his mouth and tell on himself. Tch!” He ran a hand through his hair. “It's thanks to him that we had to push the plan forward.”

His papa couldn't have waited a little longer? Any other time would have been better than the one he chose, when Deon was still in the middle of processing it all.

In fact, they now had an even bigger problem. “You noticed, right?” Deceiver questioned, entirely unhappy and frustrated with the situation.

Destruction looked at him for a moment, “I did.” He fiddled with a few strands of his hair, “The Hero's fragment is showing signs of waking up soon.”

Deceiver closed his eyes and groaned, “Great, and here I hoped I'd been going insane.”

“It would take a lot more than that to drive you insane.”

“Sadly.” He sighed, “Well, if we're lucky, the situation will be resolved before it begins. Balance said he implemented everything, it will just take some time to fully take effect.”

“At least that thing wasn't in charge of it.” His brother taunted.

“Don't call her that.” He shot back.

“Or what?”

“I'll tell dad.”

Destruction laughed again, “Like he'd care about what I call my siblings.”

“It doesn't have to be now.” Deceiver replied, “And he's gonna take my side anyway.”

“Whatever.” His brother grumbled.

“Feel free to insult the Demon King though.”

“What, why? What did he do?”

“Basically forced us to fight god.”

“...” Destruction blinked. “Eh, fair enough.”

Deon was dreaming. He was sure of that.

He'd fallen asleep after settling the demigod's affairs and putting Deceiver into bed. He was exhausted, okay? It's not every day you get to be on your toes because a god decided to live with you.

Maybe this had something to do with the demigod, too. Trying to scare him somehow?

Deon looked around the strange gray graveyard he'd found himself in when he 'woke up'. The tombstones were all identical and arranged neatly in a single line, rather than the multiple rows they would usually be in. He stood at the right-most side.

The time of death marked on the tombstone in front of him, the one where the row started or to be more precise ended, did not make sense to Deon, but he could tell it was the 'furthest' time. The more left you looked, the 'closer' the dates were.

All of a sudden, he felt a scorching heat burning his eyes, ears and throat. That's when he saw it.

“I'm sorry.” A voice whispered. “This was as much as I could delay it.”

He strained his burning eyes and looked in front of him.

“I did it for your sake.”

From the gravestone right in front of him to the farthest he could see, the date of death was always different.

“Even if they think I harmed you.”

Perhaps that shouldn't be considered shocking, rather it was an incredibly normal thing in this utterly abnormal graveyard.

“Someone has to be the opposing force.”

“Someone has to balance the scales.”

What made it unnatural was that no matter the time of death, the time of birth was always the same.

“So don't be angry with them.”

So was the name.

“Goodbye-”

With his last bit of strength, he looked at the name on the tombstones. The never-changing, constant name.

“Raven.”/'Raven.'

He woke up in a cold sweat.

Who?

Chapter Text

Although he no longer felt the searing pain of the night before, he could not help but rub his throat. When he did he could slightly feel it again, as if he was still in that graveyard.

Who was Raven and why was he buried there? Were all these graves truly for the same person?

Why was he even thinking about it? This was probably just some sort of side-effect from staying near a divine entity. It had nothing to do with him in the first place, he didn't know anyone named Raven.

He'd asked the servants he encountered but none of them had heard the name before either. Even the Lofty Knights had no idea and even asked him whether he wanted to keep a bird. He did not, thank you very much.

Well, there were still someone he could ask.

He slowly made his way towards the garden where the two were chatting, “Good morning.” He greeted respectfully, “I hope you've slept well.”

“Quite.” Destruction replied.

Deceiver ran up to him and hung onto his arm, “Good morning, Dad.”

Deon ruffled his hair, “I'm glad to see you get along.”

Destruction laughed, “I'm not going throw hands with a child.”

Somehow, he doubted that. Unbeknownst to Deon, Deceiver was glaring at the other from behind his arm.

“I'm glad nevertheless.” He responded, “I'll be leaving you to it, again, in a moment. I just want to ask my son something.”

“What is it?” Deceiver wondered, curious, “Did something happen?”

“Nothing like that.” He assured, “I just wanted to know if the name 'Raven' rang any bells?”

Deceiver went very, very still.

“Didi?” Deon asked concerned.

“Haha...” Deceiver chuckled nervously, “I do... know it. Yes.”

“Can you tell dad?”

“...” The child avoided his eyes, “I'd rather not.”

He sighed, “Okay.” and ruffled Deceiver's hair again. Nothing good would come out of pressuring him to answer.

“It's his father.” The demigod interjected with a smirk, “That guy's name is Raven.”

As Deceiver shot a death-glare at the demigod, Deon felt enlightened, “Ah, that good-for-nothing?”

He would call him a piece of shit, but Deceiver didn't need to learn that kind of language. The fact that he already knew it wasn't important.

Destruction seemed perplexed, “Sorry?”

Deon nodded, “He's the bas- *ahem*, the deadbeat that later threw him out and left him to wander near an active battlefield.” He gritted his teeth, “He's the worst!”

Destruction stared at Deceiver with an incomprehensible gaze. If Deon didn't know better, he would have thought the deity was trying to ask his child what the hell he was talking about. It was indeed an unbelievable thing.

Even if you abandon your child- which you should never do- at least don't do it in such a place. How terrible of a person do you have to be? If Deon ever has the misfortune of meeting him, he'll make sure the man can never hurt his little Didi again. Ever.

Deceiver desperately tugged at Deon's arm, looking incredibly uncomfortable and nervous, “It's okay, let's stop. What about him?”

Deon's gaze softened and he ruffled Deceiver's hair, “It's nothing important.”

“Can't you tell me?” His child asked, big hopeful eyes staring up at him, “It's okay. Maybe it isn't even the same person!”

“...” Deon was unsure.

“Please? How else can we make sure?”

The young hero sighed, “It's really nothing important. Your dad just had a weird dream, I'm sorry I worried you.”

“It's okay.” Deceiver assured, “And dad didn't know my- ah, my... father's name before, so it shouldn't be him.”

Deon ruffled the teenager's hair once more, “I get it.” He smiled at Deceiver, “I'm sorry I brought the mood down.”

“It's all right.” Deceiver assured again, “I'm just gonna hang out with our guest some more. It's really fun.”

“Okay...?” He looked at Destruction, “If that's okay?”

Destruction nodded, “Sure. I don't really have any other plans.”

He nodded in acceptance, “Then I'll leave you to it. Call me if anything happens.”

Deceiver smiled, “Got it! See you later, dad!”

“See you later.”

Deon left, thinking that those two sure got along well. At least Deceiver was making a friend.

“Your hair sure got ruffled a lot.”

“Shut it.”

There was something strange happening and Eduardo did not know what. It made him uneasy.

First the Demon King wants children's books and flirts with the third Hero, then a demigod shows up out of nowhere and cheats his way into living with said Hero. Eduardo was well aware that game had been rigged.

Deon Hardt's expression when he lost was slightly unnatural. He was shocked to have lost- yes- but the most shock was directed at his own hand. The demigod must have interfered and caused the young man to lose.

Furthermore, he had gotten news that the being and Deon's son were getting along well. It was already amazing a divine entity was dealing directly with mortals but casually hanging around a child?

Something was definitely off.

People generally avoided the young Hardt, not to mention his child. The only other person who had tried to cozy up to the kid was the Demon King...

Were the two races planning something?

No. The gods and demons could not possibly get along. It must be something else.

And there was still no reason to play extra nice with the kid. What would that even achieve? If you wanted Deon on your side, you should focus on Deon most.

Even the Demon King knew this and focused on Deon when giving gifts. The demon had only given the child something to establish himself as a viable father figure.

…No, right?

Why was everyone trying to get with the third Hero?!

Almost three months after his meeting with the Hardt family, Deon was once again meeting with the Emperor to be sent to the Demon Realm.

He hadn't really dared show up in front of the Hardt family, he didn't know how. How was he supposed to act around the family he had hated for so long? How was he supposed to act when there was an eight-year gap of memories with them?

So he was even a little relieved to be leaving. There was just one problem, “What about the demigod?”

Could he just leave when a demigod was hanging out in his backyard?

“...We have it handled.” The Emperor responded. Deon thought it sounded a little forced. The man had been incredibly annoying recently, calling him into the palace frequently and asking all kinds of weird questions about the deity.

“Understood. When should I leave?”

The other's answer was fast, “As soon as possible.”

Deon nodded, “Should I return in a specific time frame?”

“No need. Just return when the Demon King sends you back.”

Deon nodded again. Seems like the Emperor desperately wanted him gone for some reason. Perhaps he thought Deon was an obstacle when talking to the demigod since that being refused to leave Deon alone.

It was all fine and well when he was home, but that guy had even started following him around the city and on missions. The only good news was that he could cover up the black color of his eyes, preventing needless panic.

“Right, Count Hardt.”

Deon, who had been about to leave, turned back, “What is it, Your Majesty?”

“Your hair...?”

“Ah.” Deon looked at the strands falling past his shoulders, “My son asked me to grow it out.”

“Your son?”

“Yes. He wanted to match more.”

“I see.” The Emperor sighed in relief, “Nevermind then.”

“Why did Your Majesty ask about my hair?” There were no rules saying he needed to cut his hair above his shoulders.

“I was just curious. I wondered if maybe you were too preoccupied with recent affairs to remember to cut it or if you were influenced by someone.” The man waved it off, “But since that wasn't it, all is well.”

Technically, he had been influenced by Deceiver. Why wasn't the Emperor counting that? Did he already have a scenario in mind and now that it was disproven, he ignored the actual cause?

How was he supposed to understand this man? It was likely better not to try, “Then I'll be off.”

After leaving the palace, he went back home and prepared for his absence. Who knew how long he'd be gone for this time?

Cavert had stared at the young lady for a long time when she proceeded to call him an idiot and why. Maybe he was one, now that he had had time to think about, quietly sitting in his office.

In his defense, love was the last thing on his mind. He was a Demon King, he shouldn't be able to feel love. The demons could, in some capacity, but he wasn't a demon, he was the Demon King. His existence was different from them.

He can't even blame the demigod for this because he'd felt this way long before they met in front of the World Tree. He could, however, blame whatever the hell was wrong with the world in the first place.

There was a knock on the door before Deon entered, having returned from the human realm. Cavert had known about this, having seen him arrive from the window. It's just that for once, he didn't want to see the human.

Now that he knew about his own feelings, he had no idea what to even say.

Deon bowed to him, “Good evening, Your Majesty.”

“No need to bow.” Cavert pretended to be calm, “It's good to see you again, Deon.”

“You're not going to call me 'Demon' anymore?”

“I'll only call you Deon in private.” He replied, “Only Devilania and Ben know of you being the third Hero and your actual name.” To be honest, he wanted to call Deon by his name because it felt closer. If possible, he wanted to call him by a personal nickname one day, too. Something only Cavert could call him.

Deon sighed, “Your Majesty should refer to me using my alias. It would be easier to keep my cover this way, Your Majesty.”

Cavert felt a pang of disappointment hit him, “Is that what you want?”

The human seemed to ponder the question, “If I say yes, will Your Majesty stop calling me Deon?”

“I'll do whatever you prefer.”

“I do not care either way.” Deon shrugged, “Your Majesty can do whatever you want.”

Cavert lit up, “Okay.” He shifted the topic before Deon could reconsider his decision, “I see you're trying a new hairstyle. Was it your son's idea?”

Deon widened his eyes, “How did Your Majesty know?”

He smiled, “If you do something out of the ordinary or outside your comfort zone it usually has to do with him. So I just took a lucky guess, as you've never changed your hair before.”

“My son wanted me to match him.” Deon explained with a smile, “I didn't have a reason not to, so I've just been letting it grow out so far.”

Cavert watched Deon's smile with one of his own. This was the first time he'd smiled at him since he found out the truth.

“It looks very good.” He praised with sincerity.

“Thank you.” Deon replied, still smiling, albeit a little subdued.

They then began to slowly talk about business. Once that was settled, Cavert personally walked Deon back to his room.

Deon had barely finished changing when Ed asked to be let in with the paperwork. He really wasn't happy about the work but at least it gave him something to do.

He turned to the demon, “How was everyone in my absence? Are the Corps members alright?”

“Everything is going well as usual!” Ed assured, “We're doing our best to train hard everyday!”

That... wasn't what Deon meant. Oh well.

He noticed Ed seemed to want to say something else, but was hesitating, “What is it? Did something happen after all?”

“Oh, no. The Corps are fine.” He responded quickly.

Deon gave him a look, “And what's the problem then?”

“Well...” Ed scratched his neck, “Is Sir Arut well again?”

Ah, so they were worried. “I'm okay again. You don't need to worry about me.”

“That's good to hear.” He breathed a sigh of relief, “Everyone was really worried. Ben wouldn't stop grumbling either, he'll probably want to do a check-up first thing tomorrow.”

“Got it.” He likely wouldn't be able to convince Ben he was fine after he broke down like that. He glanced at Ed, “But that isn't the only issue, right?”

Ed flinched, “I don't know what you're talking about, Sir.”

“Spill.”

“I can't!” He exclaimed, “I don't want to get in trouble with His Majesty!”

Ah, so it had something to do with the Demon King, “What happened?” He dug further, “Ed.”

“Sir Arut-” He shut up when Deon glared at him.

“If His Majesty has an issue with it, I'll ask for forgiveness on your behalf. So tell me, okay?”

Ed gulped, wringing his hands, “Well, he's been sulking in his office since you left last time.”

“Huh?”

“It's very disconcerting, please make him stop!”

Chapter Text

Deon felt a headache coming up. Wasn't he just pissed that Deon complicated his game? What even was there to sulk about?

Unfortunately, it now seemed that Ed was expecting him to do something about it. He couldn't, though reminding the Demon King that he was souring his chance to win by annoying him might help.

He would do that tomorrow. He sighed, “I'll go see His Majesty tomorrow.”

“Thank you, Sir Arut!” Ed responded, “Then, please have a good night!”

Deon was much less enthused, “...Good night.” He wasn't looking forward to it.

He got up early the next day and left his room. If he took care of the Demon King's issue sooner, he would hear less about it. Despite the early hour, a lot of demons were already running around. Deon wasn't really surprised, not to mention that this was the castle- the center of the demon realms operations-, this realm really made it hard to tell the time.

After all, the only thing providing light were the three moons in the sky. He stopped by one of the windows and admired them, as it was thanks to these moons that Deon could walk around without mask or hood.

A calm voice spoke from behind, “They are very pretty, right?”

Deon swiftly turned around, coming face to face with an unknown person, “Yes?”

The man smiled happily, “It is nice to meet you, Commander.”

“Likewise.” Deon replied politely, “And you are?”

He chuckled lightly, “I am Balance. May I presume you recently met one of my siblings? Destruction is the name.”

He startled, “The demigod?”

“That is the one.” He gave a helpless shrug, “I hope he has not been much trouble.”

“He didn't bring me any.” Though the same couldn't be said about anyone outside his manor. “Are you a demigod as well?”

“I am. My domain is the same as my name.” He pointed at his own, cheerful face, “Therefore, I am much more friendly than my brother.”

“He's like... that because of his domain?” That being had definitely enjoyed insulting the nobility and the Emperor.

“Not entirely, though it is certainly connected.” Balance clarified, “It is mostly just his personality.”

So that's how it was. “Since you know I met your brother, do you know about, well, me?” There was no good way to ask whether the demigod knew his true identity since they were in the middle of the demon castle.

“I do. You are very important to us, after all.”

“What?” Why would Deon of all people be important to them? What were they planning?

“Ah, do not worry. We are not playing any games.” He smiled sadly, “This world loves you, and so do we.”

That didn't make it make more sense.

“I am afraid that is all I can tell you. Just be assured that we mean no harm.”

“We're in the demon realm right now. I'm a human in the demon realm. Unharmed.” Deon emphasized, hoping to bring his point across. He was working with the demons. As a demigod, Balance shouldn't be condoning this.

Balance shook his head with amusement, “I am also in the demon realm right now, unharmed.” He smiled brightly, “Do you not think that is strange?”

Deon actually had to stop and think for a minute. That was true, Balance was just wandering around freely and no one that passed by seemed surprised at his presence, “How long have you been here?”

“If we are talking about my presence in the abyss in general, then since before you had your breakdown.” He calmly explained, “If we are talking about the castle specifically, then I have been here since shortly after it.”

Why was the demigod here in the first place? “Why are you-”

“I think that's about enough.”

Both Balance and Deon looked to their side where the Demon King was approaching. As he got closer, he joined Deon, angling himself slightly before him while facing the demigod.

Balance seemed to find this incredibly amusing, “No need to hide him like this. I am not going to steal him from you.”

Cavert glared at the being, “I don't remember you being this outgoing or friendly with anyone else.”

“I would say I have been quite friendly to you.” The demigod responded.

“That's true.” The King acknowledged, “But you seem even friendlier to Demon. Far too much, even. I don't think you've been anything but happy since you started talking.”

“So I cannot be happy? You are rather harsh, Your Majesty.”

“You know exactly what I'm talking about.” Cavert shot back, “Additionally, you've never approached someone first.”

Balance chuckled, “I have not, but the worry truly is unnecessary. He has been dealing with my troublesome brother you see, so I felt the need to introduce myself.”

“That doesn't explain your over-friendly attitude.”

“Maybe I just felt like being friendly.” He replied, shooting the demon a meaningful look, “Or maybe he just deserves a friendly talk with no ulterior motives.” He brushed off Cavert scathing gaze and continued, “Anyway, as mentioned, I do not plan on stealing him. I am not interested in him as you are now and I certainly mean him no harm.”

“Interested like what?” Deon questioned, confused by their back and forth.

The Demon King froze as Balance blinked before laughing, shooting Deon a friendly smile, “Do not worry about it.” He side-eyed Cavert as he kept talking, “It will take some time before it becomes relevant. Rushing will help no one here. Now,” He clasped his hands, “I believe you were going to talk to the Demon King anyway, so I will be leaving you to it.”

He started walking away and before he turned the corner, he gave Deon a cheery little wave.

“He's being far too friendly.” The Demon King muttered in a wary tone.

“I think it's fine.” Deon commented and Cavert sighed at his reply, “His brother was either incredibly rude or casual at best. Even if he was friendly to me, I definitely wouldn't describe him as cheerful.”

The Demon King raised an eyebrow, “He wasn't lying about his brother?”

“No, I've been dealing with that guy since I left last time.” Deon smirked, “He blew up the eastern side of the palace. They're still not done with repairs.”

“He sounds fun.”

Deon shook his head with an iffy face, “It's okay since he doesn't really cause trouble for me but he follows me around everywhere. I was wondering why he didn't follow me this time, but it might be because his brother is here.”

“He follows you around? Isn't the Emperor doing anything about that? A demigod should be very interesting to him, no?”

The human sighed, “He's certainly interested, he's been bothering me a lot about that guy. It's just too bad said demigod doesn't care. He did something to make me lose that stupid game in the first place, that's why I'm stuck with him.” He raised an eyebrow, “Didn't you hear about that? Basically everyone in the Empire knows that something happened and that that something is something I now have to deal with.”

Cavert cleared his throat, “I've been... preoccupied.”

“With what?” Deon questioned, “Sulking around in your office?”

The demon pulled a face and looked around, seeming relieved when no one was around, “Let's talk elsewhere.”

So they went to his office and sat on the sofas opposite each other.

“I haven't been sulking.” Cavert explained the moment he sat down.

“It seemed like that to Ed. I have no doubt others thought so, too.”

“I wasn't sulking.” The King insisted.

Deon nodded, “I thought so, what would the Demon King need to sulk about anyway?” He narrowed his eyes and crossed his arms, “It's just that this started after I left, so I was asked to help.”

Cavert didn't seem to have much in way of an explanation, “My apologies. There won't be a need to bring it up again.”

“Is that all?” The human kept asking, “However important that game is to you, there's no need for such a reaction.”

The Demon King reacted, “It wasn't about the game!”

“What then?”

“As I told you back then I...” He hesitated, “I really do care about you now.”

Deon snorted, “And you had to prove that to everyone?”

“No!” He protested, “I controlled my expression well when someone came in. Even if there are rumors, they shouldn't be exaggerated to the extent of me sulking about.”

“But that's what they are.” He pointed out.

“I don't know why.” He replied, “I was certain no one noticed.”

Deon didn't believe him, “So you thought nobody had any idea you were sad at all? Because someone did notice.”

“The only one who did was that Demigod.” Cavert blurted out.

There was a moment of silence before Deon sighed, “You know what, nevermind.” It wouldn't be hard to believe Balance had done something, he was related to Destruction, after all, “Just stop sulking and we can pretend the issue is over.”

“I wasn't sulking.”

Destruction leaned against a nearby wall, “He saw your eyes, was it okay to let him run away like that?”

“Yeah,” Deceiver casually nodded, “I did it on purpose. He'll worry, maybe he'll even panic. Whatever it is, I've created a headache for him.”

Letting that assassin see his black sclera and allowing him to run back to his master was something Deceiver had thought about for a long time. It would focus the Duke's attention on him for a while.

And if the Duke tattled to the Emperor? He had a way to deal with that as well. If the worst happened, he could always reveal the truth.

The Duke was likely to think him a demon at the very least. It was a good thing he wasn't. The shaman might just reveal it for him and if not, Destruction was right there. Destruction's willingness to hang around Deon could also be explained away with that, after all, his brother was also living with the young Hero.

Who wouldn't like living with their siblings?

...Scratch that. Deceiver wouldn't and neither would his siblings. Being stuck with Destruction 24/7 was annoying as hell.

“Should we visit the others?” He suggested.

“I don't care either way.” Destruction replied. “What do you want to visit them for?”

“Just checking up on the progress.”

“You're dismissed.” Starbe rubbed his forehead once he was alone in his office.

Deon Hardt's son wasn't human. Now that he knew that, he was no longer questioning how the child kept surviving assassination attempts. How many had they sent, only to hear nothing back?

He had assumed the Lofty Knights to have done something but then again, even they knew to report on things like this. But there had been nothing after every attempt.

Black sclera. Were this a few months ago, he would have said without a shadow of a doubt that Deceiver Hardt was a demon. Oh, he still thought that, it's just that for a short moment he had doubted.

After all, the godly visitor that arrived a few months ago also had eyes like that.

Starbe's conviction came from his own knowledge. He had seen the Demon King's face before. Though Deceiver was young in appearance, his face was remarkably similar to that of the demonic King.

He didn't know what the Demon King thought when he created a demon using his own face as a base, but it made it easier for Starbe to figure everything out. And since the rest of the 'child's' features were similar to the young Hero, the young man might feel some kinship and take care of him.

Honestly, it was no wonder Deon Hardt kept surviving despite his best efforts.

It's funnier to bet on the losing side? What a joke. The Demon King had influenced the outcome of the war as well. Not to mention that by having one of his agents right at the scene, he could assure that Deon wouldn't die. Demons were much more useful than humans like this. You just had to make sure no one found out they weren't human.

On top of that, that agent was now in the capital of the Empire. Well, that made it easier to deal with. He couldn't let a danger like this roam around.

The only question was how. Assassination clearly wasn't working. The demon might also be wary right now if he noticed the escapee, so Starbe would bide his time. No use hitting a prepared target.

The demigod might also be of use. He must be staying in the Empire because of Deon and his 'child'. Starbe could approach him and offer his help in getting rid of them.

With him on the Duke's side, nothing could save them.

Chapter Text

Deon was dreaming again. It had happened a lot since the dream that contained a graveyard.

Most of the time, he just found himself in that cemetery again, without that otherworldly voice. There was no wind or any other noise, it was just deathly quiet.

The tombstones stood motionless and no change had ever taken place when he dreamed. The inscriptions never changed either.

He had figured something out though, now that his eyes no longer hurt and he could see and think more clearly. The dates on the graves that had seemed so strange now made sense to him. All of them were set in the future. A very far future.

So he began to wander down the singular row, reading each date of death. The farther he went, the more he saw dates that were the same. As if the person had died multiple times that day.

The name was also showing signs of abnormality. The stone beneath its engraving looked worn away and altered, as if something else had once been engraved. The damage would get incrementally bigger the farther down he went.

But to Deon it hadn't looked like someone got tired of changing the engraving, and more like less effort was needed to cover up what was once written.

He had yet to reach the end. At least, each new time he dreamed of it, he arrived at the spot he was last in. He morbidly wondered if the first tombstone would have the date of birth and death matching exactly.

He already knew the dreams weren't normal. He wasn't that stupid. He just didn't know what their purpose was and what it was supposed to achieve.

But he wasn't dreaming about the graveyard this time.

It happened occasionally. He would be in an unfamiliar forest or surrounded by ruins. Sometimes he'd show up in the middle of a busy marketplace. He couldn't interact with anyone, only watch.

He saw many faces both familiar and unfamiliar. He found it rather funny, so many of the people he knew looked like they were living lives opposite of what they should be.

But that was only the humans. He did not see a single face that reminded him of the demons or Deceiver. Even his parents and Cruel didn't show up.

He didn't like those dreams that favored the human side so much more. But at least there was sense of familiarity when he was around faces he knew.

But this time? He had no idea what was going on this time.

It was the first time he saw someone resembling his son. He looked older, like a fully grown adult. Everything about them was the same, he even had the same black sclera that his Didi had.

Deon wondered if he had anything to do with Deceiver. He and the Lofty Knights had long known the child wasn't human. But he was still Deceiver, the child they had taken care of all this time, so how could they hurt him?

After he learned that his son could not be a demon, he had wondered about his origin and recently, he might have come up with an answer. The demigod that arrived in the Empire also had black colored eyes. He thought Deceiver might be one, too, and that was why Destruction had chosen Deon to win the game. All so he could find and check up on one of their own.

They would have never even known and been able to think about any of this, had it not been for enemy soldiers sneaking into the camp and making a child their target. Just because Didi was a small, defenseless child, they thought they could use him to hurt Deon and the others.

Well, the joke was on them, Deceiver made short work of them. It's just that they were too fast in catching on and entered the tent before Deceiver could hide his eyes.

His son had looked so afraid. As if he thought Deon would just abandon him.

He wondered if this man he now saw was Deceiver's father, who had carelessly thrown him aside. But something told him he wasn't.

He looked around, but couldn't tell where on earth he was. His surroundings were pitch black, the only source of light a ball of flame that illuminated nearby, round objects. Little glimmers of light sparked in the distance as well, but he was too far to see what they were. They reminded him of the stars he would see at night.

He didn't know whether the objects and lights were floating with magic or held up with a string, but his guess was with the former. After all, the man seemed to be floating as well.

He was holding and staring at something in his hands, it looked like a mountain of debris. If Deon tried to put them together, he was sure it would look like the objects floating around them.

It must have been very dear to this man, as his gaze looked anguished.

Perhaps it was because he looked so much like Deceiver that Deon wanted to comfort him, but as usual, he couldn't interact with the elements in his dream.

His neck was stiff as he woke. He groaned as he sat up, what a shitty way to wake up. He yawned as he reached for his clothes.

What should he do today?

He could visit his Corps and see how they were doing or maybe check out one of the spars the other Commanders kept talking about.

...On second thought, he should definitely visit the Corps. What if he got dragged into the spars if he went to watch one? He didn't want that.

He encountered Ririnell on his walk there, “Good Morning.”

“Good Morning!” She replied energetically, “It's good to see you're alright! I was so worried!”

“I'm sorry.” He gave her a soft smile.

She looked alarmed, “No need to be sorry! Sir Arut didn't do anything wrong!” She angrily stomped the floor, “The one who should be sorry is the one who hurt you!”

He chuckled, “Well, they're going to regret it, don't worry.” To be precise, one already was. As for the Duke... he would get what's coming for him.

“Good.” She huffed, “They better not think they'll get off easily.”

Deon found it rather amusing she was essentially cursing her own creator. Ignorance truly was bliss.

She blinked up at him, “Where are you going?”

“To my Corps.” He replied, “I figured I might as well check up on them.”

“Oh! Can I come along?”

“Sure.” He confirmed, “So long as you don't cause any distractions.”

“Got it!” She smiled brightly, “I won't cause any trouble!”

They continued together, chatting about the state of affairs and Devilania's newest clothing assembly. Deon wasn't gonna think too much on that last one. If he did, she might materialize and drag him to play dress-up doll again.

They finally arrived at the training grounds after a while of chatting. The Corp members inside instantly quietened down when they saw him before yelling loudly.

“Hey, Sir Arut is visiting!”

“Sir Arut!”

“Greetings!”

“Sir Arut is back!”

He was swarmed the moment he stepped through the door. It kinda reminded him of the Lofty Knights, who turned every occasion they could into a giant group hug. The only upside was, the demons didn't go quite that far.

“Good Morning.” He greeted, “Please keep doing what you were doing. I'm just here to check in.”

“No way!” One demon wailed, “Please teach us something, Commander!”

“Yeah!” another cheered brightly, “You come here so rarely!”

“Just one thing, please!”

“Like one of your knife techniques!” One piped up, “Or a sword move!”

“Please!”

They were really crowding around him now. Looking at Ririnell was of no help, she seemed just as exited about the idea as them.

“Just one.” She pleaded, “I wanna see it, too.”

Listen, he basically didn't have any moves to teach, neither could he lift a sword. Just hit the vital points! They knew how to do that!

“Pleeease?” Ririnell looked at him with puppy eyes, the Corp members following suit.

He gritted his teeth, “I don't have anything to teach. You should know all that I could teach you already.”

“That's fine!” One shouted, “I don't mind a refresher!” The other nodded along, agreeing to his words.

He felt a headache incoming, “Okay.” He gritted out. He'll make this the most boring lecture ever. “Let's learn about anatomy then.”

As he unfortunately had nothing to draw on, he had to go through it slowly. His subordinates plus Ririnell stood in a half-circle around him, patiently listening.

When he finally finished, he felt exhausted but the demons were still energetic. He glared at them, “If you still have energy, get back to training.” Like hell was he going to be the only one tired here.

“Yes, Sir!” The demons finally got back to their training, paying Deon little mind.

He could occasionally feel them glance at him but he resolutely ignored them. Ririnell excused herself sometime during this to get back to her own duties with a jovial skip to her steps.

Their forms didn't look bad. Although they trained differently compared to the Empire's troops, the basic discipline was still there. You couldn't expect two wholly different nations to have the exact same fighting style.

“Hey- Watch out!”

He was pulled out of his thoughts by a loud yell. His head snapped upwards and saw a brown object hurtling towards himself, he barely caught it.

“Sir Arut! Are you alright?!”

“I'm so sorry!” One cried and when Deon looked at him, it turned out it didn't just sound like it. The demon had tears in his eyes and looked rather scared. He couldn't really fault him, the whole Corps was glaring at him.

Some looked between them worriedly. “It's okay.” Deon spoke, a little shaken, “It was just an accident.” Everyone's gaze was surprised. He felt the need to clarify, “I didn't get hurt, and he didn't mean for it to happen. So it's okay.” He smiled at the demon, “Just pay more intention in the future.”

He heard Ed speak from behind him, nearly making him jump, “That's unacceptable.”

When did Ed get here?

He slightly turned his head to see Ed glaring at the poor demon that had lost control of the sword. “It's okay, Ed. Accidents happen.”

“No!” Ed rebuffed angry, “Sir Arut is still not completely healthy! What if you hadn't reacted in time?! Such an incident cannot go unpunished!”

This stubborn guy. He'd probably argue for a long time if Deon still tried to let it go, “Okay, then how about he runs five laps?”

Ed brightened up, “Around the castle?”

He shot that down, “No, the training grounds.” What scary things was his adjutant thinking about?

Ed's expression soured again, “Sir-”

“Just leave it be.” He sighed, “I already gave him a punishment.”

Ed's shoulders slouched, “...Understood.” He clicked his tongue before neutralizing his expression, “But since an accident has occurred, I must implore you to let Ben have a look at you, Sir Arut.”

“Fine.” He was clearly getting back at him.

He was peacefully accompanying Ed to the doctor, after pretending not to hear his adjutant damn the rest of his Corps to also run five laps.

Thankfully, Ben cleared his condition as 'doing better than normal' when he was done examining him.

“It's really great that you're slowly recovering.” Ben nearly teared up, “Although I'm unsure if it will completely clear up.”

“It's your job to make sure it does.” Ed pointed a finger at him.

Ben looked determined, “I'll definitely find a way.” He then nervously glanced at Deon, “Uhm, Sir Arut, are you going to let go of that any time soon?”

“I agree!” Ed chimed in, “We ought to burn that thing!”

He looked at what they were pointing at and noticed he was still holding the object that had nearly hit him. He belatedly realized it was a training sword. He'd been holding that this entire time?

He put it down, “No need to burn it, I'll bring it back later.” He was a little confused. He definitely couldn't have lifted this thing a while ago. No matter how physically fit he got, lifting and carrying around a sword was not something he could do.

But he'd been lugging that around and still gotten a clean bill of health?

“I just remembered!” Ben rummaged through his pockets, holding out a vibrant red bracelet, “We were originally going to make a necklace- we still did- but decided to make this as well.” He smiled proudly, “They're made with your blood and the Demon King's magic.”

They're made with what? He cautiously accepted the accessory “...Thank you? What are they for?”

“The necklace lets me know if you're hurt and where you are, Sir Arut.” Ben explained, “The bracelet is for you. It not only makes it more precise but also has a minor healing function. It gives us a larger window of time to get to you.” His mood dropped as he kept talking, “Our King insisted on making it after what happened last time.”

“His Majesty did?” Deon was skeptical but did his best not to show it.

Ed nodded in Ben's stead, “He did.”

Ben sighed, “He was really worried, you know? He wouldn't leave your bedside at all.” He frowned, “He only left after you woke up.” His face suddenly turned grim and angry, “-And then he refused me entry! I'm your doctor! It would be one thing if he had someone else examine you, but he didn't do that at all!”

Deon sweat-dropped as Ben complained, “That... might be my fault. I'm the one who asked him not to let you in.”

“...” The doctor blinked. His expression become undecipherable, then he shouted, “Sir Aruuuuut-!”

Chapter Text

Deon's ears kinda stung from the tongue lashing he received from Ben. He knew he deserved it, he was just incredibly bitter about it.

It's not like he had physical wounds and Ben wouldn't have been able to do anything about his mental state. What Deon had needed was some peace and quiet to think. At least the Demon King had granted him that.

But now that he had been released from Ben's care he just went straight back to his room. Not to mention that the lecture for his Corps earlier had made him mentally tired, the lecture aimed at him ensured he would be exhausted. Therefore he would take a quick nap while he could.

As Deon fell asleep, he once again found himself in the graveyard. Nothing unusual then.

He began leisurely walking down the row, reading each inscription carefully. He was getting ever closer to the date of birth.

He walked for a long time and began to feel himself wake up again. The graveyard began to be shrouded in a strange fog by now, the further he walked. He looked at the rest of the row ahead and realized that only three tombstones remained.

It was a little far to read the 'last' one, especially with the thick fog that surrounded the last two graves covering anything readable.

The date of birth and death on the third was still years apart, so he was surprised it would end in just two more. He could reach it surely. But it also didn't matter much, he was mostly doing this out of curiosity anyway.

He would just check it the next time he dreamed. There was no need to hurry. He woke up slowly, rubbing his eyes as he sat up. He spotted something black on the side of his bed. It was the Demon King.

Deon held in a scream. Why was he on his bed?!

“Ah, you're awake.” Cavert remarked as he closed his book.

“There's seats over there.” He pointed out, gesturing to the chairs on the side of the room.

The Demon King smiled, “The bed is more comfortable.” The smile widened, “And I can be closer to you like this.”

Why was that a factor when deciding the seating? “Is there something you need from me, Your Majesty?”

“There is.” Cavert admitted, eyes drooping in what looked like disappointment. “There is a surge of monsters in the north. I was wondering if you would mind taking care of them with your Corps?”

“Not at all.” He actually did mind but he should at least do his job. Not to mention he could just let the Corps take over most of the work.

“That's good to hear.” The Demon King replied and got up to leave, “Then I'll leave it to you.”

“Wait a minute.” Deon stopped him, “About the mission details-”

“Ed has them.” Cavert informed him, “Go see him when you get up.”

Was it just Deon or was something off with the demon? He'd never left that fast before.

Oh well, no use thinking about something he'd have no hope to answer. He got up and straightened out his clothes, putting on both the bracelet he received from Ben and Didi's red brooch. Then he went to find Ed.

He'd just go on the mission and ask the Demon King what was wrong once he returned.

The location of the problem was at a nearby town. The monsters seemed to be lurking in the forest, so Deon and his Corps left their horses behind in town and headed towards the woods.

Surprisingly, the monster problem wasn't hard to take care of. Though it made him a bit sick to the stomach, he cut through them without problem. In fact, the more he did so, the more he seemed to remember similar scenes.

He was sure the memories were from nearly two years ago, when he first entered the demon realm alongside the Hero.

Why hadn't he remembered these earlier?

“Sir Arut, we're done.” Ed snapped him out of his musing.

He nodded, acknowledging his adjutant's words, “Then let's pack up and return.”

Ed received his orders and arranged everyone to start packing up. The demon's eyes sparkled as he looked back to Deon, “Sir Arut, you were amazing as usual today!”

“Mhm.” He responded absentmindedly. Did he just see something pass by in the trees? He must be imagining things. “Is everyone ready?”

“Yes, Sir!” A bunch of his subordinates responded at once.

He nodded, “Then let's go.”

They returned to the nearby town, giving the stationed soldiers the all-clear, who asked them to stay for a meal. Deon saw no harm in that and the 0^th Corps looked exited at the prospect of eating something after all that work, so he gave the go ahead.

He sat down next to Ed, enjoying his meal as he watched the demons chat among themselves. They made it look like they'd gone camping rather than exterminating monsters and were now happy to be back among civilization.

The thought was funny to him.

When they were done eating, they bid the town soldiers goodbye and Deon corralled his Corps and made them mount their horses before getting on his own.

They had just left the town when something twisted in his gut. The brooch Deceiver had given him was glowing ominously, causing Deon to have a baleful sense of foreboding.

He pulled on his reins, stopping his horse. His subordinates followed suit, Ed shooting him a questioning gaze. He held up a hand, signaling them to be silent.

The brooch had never done that before. What was wrong?

He looked around, but couldn't find anything amiss. They seemed to be the only people around.

He happened to look down and his own wrist caught his attention. There, Ben's bracelet was hanging loosely, glowing as well. He remembered what the doctor had said. The bracelet had a healing function. But it seemed the usage was already nearing its limit as the light quickly dimmed.

He held a hand to his head the next moment. He was starting to feel woozy and his vision began to swim.

Deon had felt that way before, back when he was serving as a Commander for the Empire. The enemy had tried a new angle to get rid of him and found someone to poison him.

It must have been in the food. Someone put poison in the food.

“Ed- *cough*” He covered his mouth, red running down his hand.

“Sir Arut-!” Ed jumped down from his horse, rushing towards him.

No. Ed couldn't come here. He painfully coughed again, the shock from it rattling his body as he tried to stop him, “Don- Don't co-! *cough*”

There was no way they would only use poison. None of his assailants had ever been that stupid. There was always something else.

'Ah,' He realized as pain tore through him and his body jolted forward from the impact, 'I was right.'

He laughed through his coughs, blood blooming on his chest like a brilliant flower. He barely registered the arrowhead sticking out of it.

One was joined by another, then finally a third.

He smiled mockingly at himself as he slid off his horse, a thick fog dulling the pain in his head. Ed's broken voice the last thing he heard, “Sir Arut!”

The brooch had completely shattered. Didi would be sad.

If Cavert hadn't already felt Ben's magical signature drawing closer, he would have been startled when the doctor burst through the door with no warning.

Ben wasn't usually the type to do that. Did Deon faint again? But that wasn't unusual and wouldn't cause such a reaction. It was also far too early for him to have returned yet, “Ben-”

“-It's terrible!” The doctor interrupted, chocking on nothing. Tears were in his eyes.

He pushed his brightly glowing necklace in the Demon King's face. Cavert realized in horror that it was the one tuned to Deon.

It was glowing with the brightest light it physically could.

“Something terrible has happened!” Ben's face was completely pale, his voice shook, “I- I have to get to Sir Arut! Your Majesty-”

Cavert wasted no time and harshly grabbed Ben's arm, pulling him forward, “Let's go!”

Nothing could happen to Deon. He couldn't lose him.

They teleported.

Deceiver stared at the broken strand of his power in incomprehension. Then he sprang into action. The brooch had shattered in the north of the demon realm.

He ignored Destruction beside him and prepared to teleport, but before he could finish, a realm of darkness enveloped them.

His brother assumed a defensive position, looking around. They quickly found the perpetrator.

How dare-

He shattered the illusion, but another took its place right away. The same happened again when he shattered this one. He had no time for this!

His gaze was scathing as never before as it tore a hole through the culprit. Power surged around him as his disguise shredded, a promise for violence in his eyes.

“YOU-!”

He patted his chest. There was nothing wrong. He had no idea why he thought there would be, he just felt the urge to check.

Deon sat up slowly, the scenery in front of him was incredibly unreal. He was back in the graveyard.

How had he come here? He didn't remember falling asleep. He had gone with the 0^th Corps to exterminate monsters and then... and then? He didn't remember what happened then.

Had he fallen asleep on horseback? His cheeks burned as he hid them in his hands. That would be so embarrassing.

God, he hoped that's not what happened. He stood up and patted his pants free of debris and gravel. This was the first time he hadn't been standing when arriving here. He noted how unexpectedly realistic the ground felt.

The unchanging graves stood there silently, fog covering both them and Deon. He looked at the second last and was amused to find that the dates were still years apart. Maybe its owner had only obtained a curse to repeatedly die later in life.

He entirely lost his smile as he looked at the last tombstone.

It was a gravestone whose name hadn't been altered, whose date of birth was not set in the future. The date of death was still out of reach but within the decade. Laid to rest at the beginning of spring.

Among all the graves it was the only one adorned with flowers. Pristine petals swayed as a sudden gust of wind swept through the cemetery, dispersing all the fog.

Behind the last tombstone another row had begun to form, a single, lonely grave marking its start.

He stumbled forward, towards it. It nearly perfectly replicated the one in front of it. The sole difference was the date that marked its owner's death.

The date was today's.

The name his.

“Welcome back”

Chapter Text

Ed sighed for the umpteenth time that day. This time, it wasn't just Sir Arut's room that was quiet. Not only the castle, but the whole castle town was silent. The demons barely dared to breathe.

This was all their fault. As Sir Arut's adjutant and right hand, he had completely failed.

His Commander had clearly noticed something amiss. It was one thing not to notice the assailants, it was another not to be able to protect their Commander once he drew attention to it.

On top of that, someone had poisoned him...!

Ed hadn't noticed anything wrong with the meals, or to be more precise, his Commander's. No one else had any problems after consuming the food, so whoever did it had managed to bypass all of them and singled out Sir Arut's meal.

How could they fail so badly? Now their Commander's life was hanging on a threat it didn't need to.

He shuddered as he remembered the Demon King's gaze as he arrived. Ed had never felt so afraid in his life. There was no fate worse for a demon than what awaited after angering their Creator and King.

Not to mention this concerned Sir Arut. The Demon King clearly favored and adored him. This was the second time he had been in a serious condition, but at least last time there was no active danger to his life.

If Sir Arut did not survive this, no one else in the 0^th Corps would either.

It still baffled him that they were alive right now. The Demon King had been beyond himself in anger. But Ed supposed this just proved how favored their Commander was. Between punishing them and personally overseeing Sir Arut's treatment, the latter had won out.

That's not to say he hadn't paid them any attention at all. He had made it clear that their own survival depended entirely on their superior. If he lived, he would decide their fate and if he died, they would as well. And it wouldn't be an easy end.

Personally, Ed didn't mind death as much as he thought he would. None of this would have happened if they had done their job right. He couldn't even bear looking at his Commander right now.

Not that he would be able to anyway, their King had made it abundantly clear that aside from the doctors, nobody was allowed to even come near Sir Arut's room.

So they were left to wander and make themselves useful until it was time to decide their fates. But there wasn't much they could do, each of them more restless than the next. Ed had personally decided to patrol around the castle gate and nearby to give himself something to do.

It was due to this that he noticed the commotion around the castle gate. He turned and made his way towards the location, the voices turning clearer the closer he got. It sounded like someone was arguing with another person about entry into the castle.

No, that can't be called arguing. One person, whoever wanted to enter, threatened the guards into letting them through. The others, the guards, were desperately trying to stop them. They sounded confused and scared.

Why were the guards of the Demon King's castle scared? What kind of image were they upholding with that?

When he arrived he was ready to scold them after throwing out the intruder when his eyes fell on the said individual.

His mind took a moment to process the information offered.

A tall man with white hair and red eyes. For a very short moment Ed thought Sir Arut was standing there but the impression was gone immediately.

First of all, Sir Arut wasn't that tall. This man was one of the tallest Ed had ever seen. Second, the man had black sclera instead of the normal white. Maybe Ed was forgetting someone, but he could only recall their King having these kinds of eyes.

And that directly linked to the third and last point. This man had an eerie resemblance to the Demon King.

The Demon King would never look so disorderly though. This individual's clothes were clearly torn in places and despite there being no sign of injuries, it was clear he had just gotten out of a fight.

Not to mention that something just seemed off. Despite his less than human appearance and no discernible feature linking to another race, Ed was certain he wasn't a demon. It was just a strange feeling he had.

And that same feeling was telling him not to piss him off. A shame that he already seemed angry and ready to start a fight. He had to interfere before this exploded.

“Hello.” He greeted, “May I know your purpose? I will pass it on for you, as nobody is allowed in currently.”

The guards sacked in relief as the man turned his glare at Ed instead, “I don't care about whatever rules you have right now. Let me in so I can see my dad.”

Well, no demon would call the Demon King that, so that pretty much confirmed he wasn't one. But the only non-demon here was Sir Arut and his child... wasn't that old. Ed wouldn't claim to be an expert where it concerned humanity, but his superior and this man looked to be about the same age.

And his Commander's child should be around thirteen or fourteen and as such, not that tall. Ed was willing to bet that human children didn't grow that fast, “There's no one fitting your... ah, relevant age group here.”

The man scowled, “I said let me see my dad. There's only one human here, and you will let me see him.”

Ed stiffened, and returned the man's scowl, “The only human here isn't old enough to be your father. Additionally, this does not change that nobody is allowed in.” He glared at the man, “He is also not able to attend to you currently, so I'll have to ask you to leave.”

“You little-!” His expression distorted, “Either you let me through or I will make you.”

“You think you can get away with threatening me?” Ed's scowl deepened. He may not be a Corps Commander himself but he was proud of his strength. Despite his failure, he had been chosen as Sir Arut's adjutant for a reason.

“You think asking me that will deter me?”

Ed has had enough, “You are-”

A hand was laid on his shoulder, “Stop.” He looked up and saw the 1^st Corps Commander looking at the intruder, “Let's all calm down for a moment. If you wish to enter, I can talk with the King about this, but I'll have to ask you to wait a moment.”

“I thought nobody was allowed in?” The man challenged.

“...” Jaykar remained calm, “I believe we've met before. I don't know why you look older all of a sudden, but I recognize you. Commander Demon would be happy to see you were he awake, that's why I'm willing to ask for an exception on your behalf.”

Ed was confused. Who was this man that Commander Jaykar recognized him? Why would Sir Arut be happy to see him?

The man seemed to have calmed down quite a bit, “Then I'll wait here for a bit.”

That made it sound like he'd forcefully enter if the 1^st Corps Commander wasn't fast enough.

Said Commander suddenly looked at him, “I believe it would be best if you two didn't fight for now. I'll be back soon.”

Cavert was incredibly annoyed. If Jaykar hadn't mentioned that their uninvited guest might be Deon's child, he wouldn't have bothered to listen or come.

No matter what, the child had a right to see his father. It's just that Cavert felt terrible for allowing this situation to happen in the first place.

When he laid eyes on the man, he recognized him immediately. While he looked very different compared to when he was with Deon in the army, it was obviously the same person.

The eyes were new though. Cavert supposed no one around Deon was normal. But this might explain Balance's friendly attitude.

If this child was a demigod as well, then the other was unlikely to antagonize his fellow demigod's 'father'.

“Hello. Deceiver, right?” He greeted politely, “If you want to see your father, I suggest you follow me for now. He can't really come to you at the moment.”

“I know.” Deceiver acknowledged, incredibly calm for someone alleged to have threatened the guards, “That's why I'm here.”

Cavert nodded in response and led him to Deon's room.

It was clear as they entered that the treatment was far from over. Although the arrows had been removed and the wounds treated, Deon had suffered quite a bit of blood loss. On top of that, it had taken a lot of work to remove both poisons.

They had initially thought only the meal had been poisoned but the arrows had a different kind of toxin on them as well.

Deceiver went to Deon's side and laid a hand on his chest. The wound begun to glow.

Cavert was alarmed, “-What are you doing?”

“Healing him.” Was the short reply, “He's been cursed, too. I'm removing it.”

The doctors and Cavert looked at him surprised.

“I didn't notice a curse.” The Demon King admitted.

Deceiver shook his head, “It's a very well hidden one, laid by a higher existence. Thankfully, it's an easy one to solve though. Especially since there's nothing to latch onto.”

Cavert had an epiphany, “Because his soul is missing?”

Deceiver flinched. His eyes were wide as he looked at him.

“Don't look at me like that.” He couldn't help but say, “I'm not so dumb that I wouldn't notice that.”

The not-child opened and closed his mouth, then chuckled, “I suppose you aren't.”

He pointed a finger at Deceiver. “This has something to do with you.” He accused.

“It does.” Deceiver admitted, “But it's not like I'm harming him. I did this for his own sake.”

“Does Deon know about this?”

“Of course not.”

“Don't you think you're keeping too much from him?” Cavert questioned, “He probably doesn't even know you're not human.”

“He knows I'm not human.” Deceiver shot back, “In fact, he likely partially figured out what I am, as well.” The glow under his hand faded and he removed it.

Cavert checked Deon's condition himself and was relieved to find nothing wrong, “Why did you take his soul?”

“I don't believe I owe you an explanation.”

“As a demigod, don't you think your actions are too callous?”

“Who said I'm a demigod?” Deceiver quipped, but Cavert had the strange feeling he was serious, “To answer your question, I don't think I'm callous. As I mentioned, this is for his own sake.”

“I can't think of any reason to take someone's soul.” Cavert retorted.

Deceiver smiled, “That's a you problem.” He seemed to think about it for a moment, “But I suppose I can tell you a bit.”

“Please do.” Cavert replied semi-politely. It was valuable information anyway. If only because it could reveal why this man stuck to Deon.

“The human soul cannot stand not being whole. I've been supplementing my father's soul with my divinity. Thankfully, recently, I repossessed the other half.” He looked particularly proud of himself, “Now these two halves have to fuse. This would be a rather uncomfortable process if it was in his body, hence I relocated it.”

Cavert couldn't believe it, “You went through all that trouble for him?” There was definitely a motive behind his actions. A normal human wasn't worth all that trouble for such an existence.

“Of course.” Deceiver happily replied, “Is there a reason not to your help your father?”

“I have doubts he actually is.” The Demon King replied instead. Nevermind Deon's age, he was just human, how could he cause any sort of god to be born?

The man laughed, “He is. And he is not the only one.”

He was incredulous, “You have another 'parent'?”

“I do.” Deceiver proclaimed, suddenly incredibly cheerful, “You. I'm your son, too.”

Chapter Text

Ah, he messed up.

Deceiver's smile turned nervous as the Demon King stared at him. Just... stared.

He had seen a perfect opportunity to tell his second father about their relation, so he... didn't think about the consequences. Shit.

At least it distracted him from the whole soul matter? “A- anyway, we should be able to wake up Dad soon-”

His father seemed to have found his voice again as he cut him off, “You don't get to suddenly change the topic.” He still seemed incredibly shocked, “Explain what you mean by 'I'm your son'. You're not even a demon, I have no relation to you.”

Deceiver scratched his cheek with a nervous smile and looked away.

Cavert seemed to have had enough, “This whole thing is strange to begin with. You demigods keep popping up when you shouldn't.” He took a deep breath, “The demigod of Balance also said strange things to me, regarding this world. You lot better start explaining.”

His chuckle was tense as he looked back at the King, “You know Balance is a World Error, right?”

Cavert crossed his arms, “I do.”

“Okay.” Deceiver gathered his thoughts, “Well, he isn't. Not anymore.”

“What?” The demon looked at him in disbelief.

“Balance is my sibling, and so are three more. We're the five incomplete demigods and World Errors born under a certain circumstance.” His chuckle turned into light laughter, “But not anymore. I was the first to ascend, to rid myself of the title of World Error and an incomplete demigod.”

“So you're a normal demigod compared to them?”

“No. They are full demigods, yes.” He confirmed, “But I've long become a god.” His face fell as he remembered the past, “What Balance projected to you in front of the World tree was merely an echo of the past. None of them are World Errors anymore and with the changes of the World you will soon stop being one, too.”

“And you're doing this because I'm your 'father'?” There was a hint of amusement in the Demon King's voice. He clearly didn't believe in their relation.

Deceiver might have to actually explain everything, or at least a part of it, “Have you ever felt a sense of deja-vu?”

Cavert shrugged, “With how old I am, what would make you think otherwise? But that's not what you want to hear.”

He nodded, “This world has been destroyed once already, I know my sibling told you about that. Well, I turned back this world's time.”

“You did what?!”

“It's all very complicated so I'll spare you and keep it short. This world itself and the beings living in it have been rewound but nothing else. Otherwise, how could I exist?”

The other thought about his words, “You rewound further than your own point of creation?”

“Exactly.” He clapped, “I wanted to change things since I was already at it, so how could I risk even the slightest chance of myself disappearing? It may not have been perfect, but it worked.” He smirked, “So all points about how my dad hasn't done anything that could cause me to exist yet are moot.”

“And I'm connected to that cause?”

“You are.” He smiled proudly.

His father was silent for a moment. He then opened his mouth, with what Deceiver could only perceive as happily hopeful, “So Deon and I got together in the future?”

“...That's what you took away from that?” He was in disbelief. “No, you didn't.”

Should he be happy his father sincerely liked his dad? It's not that he wasn't, but this really wasn't the time to ask such a question.

Also, did his father forget the doctors were still right there? Deceiver didn't mind revealing what he did, after all, not everyone could hope to understand what he was talking about. Besides, everyone should know he was 'Cavert's' child, rather than just a creation of a Demon King.

But was his father okay just blurting out what amounted to a confession of what he felt for his own subordinate?

Great, his father would definitely ask him why him and his dad didn't end up getting together. “I can tell you why, but-” He jerked his head in the direction of the doctors, “Father's condition has stabilized, so dismiss them for a moment.”

The Demon King nodded and waved off the demons. Once they had all left the room, he turned back to him, “So?”

“Father was never supposed to learn the truth this early.” He started, “He also murdered his own parents once he returned from the demon realm for the first time.”

Cavert processed that, “So he killed his parents and once he knew the truth, it broke him.”

He nodded, “Yes. You know your own role in the way his life unfolded. No matter what, you two could never have been lovers. Please keep in mind I already changed a lot, so things that you know have happened may not have occurred in the past.”

“Did the me in the past... love him?”

Deceiver closed his eyes for a moment, “I don't know.”

Cavert accepted his words, “Can you tell me Deon's fate in that life? That's why you sent everyone out, right?”

“It is.” He acknowledged, “My father awakened as the Warrior but sided with the demons, becoming the Enemy of Humanity. And later, he drove the demons to death as well.”

“Including me.” The Demon King concluded, “Because that's what I wanted.”

“Yes.”

“And then?”

“...” He sighed, “Father...” He shook his head, “I don't want to talk about this. In conclusion, he died as well.”

“And you five were born as a result of the Demon King and Warrior working together.”

“Pretty much.”

They fell into silence for a moment. Cavert rubbed his forehead, “Why did you go so far back? Something tells me Deon must have still been able to reincarnate.”

He cracked a smile when he heard the question, “Sure, but all of dad's regrets could be solved this way. And I'll be honest with you: I care about dad more than you. But that doesn't mean I would pass up the chance to meet you if I could.”

“So you selfishly ended the peace I'd finally found.”

“I did. But I also worked with my siblings to lift the chains on your existence.” He explained, “You're happy now, right?”

Cavert cracked a smile, “I can't deny that.”

“This is where you're keeping him?”

“It is.” Cavert confirmed.

They were in the demon castle's prison. After letting the doctors back in, Deceiver had asked to interrogate the shooter that had hurt his father. There wasn't really anyone else Cavert could let him interrogate.

They hadn't found whoever poisoned Deon's meal yet, but they were making headway. The prisoner had already let slip what his accomplice looked like. They basically knew everything they could get from him already.

This included the person who had given the orders.

Cavert would make sure the Duke knew the price for his actions. He sure as hell didn't agree to the man hurting Deon in their agreement when he asked for the human to be sent to him.

He snapped out of his thoughts as Deceiver opened the cell door, “How are you going to do this?” He wondered.

Deceiver raised a finger to his lips, tapping his lower lip lightly and smiling “Well, I am the God of Deception.” His smile widened, “I'll show him his own personal hell.”

That sounded more like torture than interrogation but he saw no reason to stop the god. Why be merciful to bastards? They wouldn't be in this situation if they hadn't tried to kill Deon.

As the prisoner started to scream in agony, Cavert asked another question, “Since you rewound the world, why are there problems with its will? Or was that just an excuse Balance used?”

Deceiver glanced at him, “It's not like I have practice in turning back time.” He sighed, “I'm a god of deception, so it really isn't my specialty. My siblings actually had to help a lot or it wouldn't have worked out nearly so well.”

“Do the five of you get along well?”

The god pursed his lips, “Not... really? We get along somewhat right now, but that wasn't the norm. Especially with me, I kinda... had my own thing going on.”

“So what made you work together now? Purely because you wanted to meet your parents?” Cavert tilted his head with curiosity.

Deceiver chuckled, “I can't actually tell you. I definitely gave them some incentive when I told them I had a way for them to become 'complete' but not so much they would bother showing up personally.”

“So something changed.”

He shrugged, “Balance and Observer initially just watched but I guess they got curious about dad after all. Creation took an active role from the beginning and Destruction...” He stared at the ceiling, “No idea, actually. But he doesn't seem to want to cause any- sorry, not too much trouble. At least not for dad or me. He's the one who destroyed the Emperor's palace.”

Cavert chuckled as he remembered Deon's complaints about being stuck with the demigod, “I think he caused Deon quite a bit of trouble in the Empire.”

“It wasn't planned.” Deceiver casually admitted, “But it gave him the chance to openly hang around dad. We asked him to protect him when he decided to get involved.”

“So that's three of you Deon and I combined have met.”

“Four.” The god corrected.

The Demon King was confused, “Four?”

“You met Observer in Esperanas. She told us about it.” The other looked at him with a deadpan, “It's amazing how dense you are. She really needed to spell it out for you, I'm impressed.”

Starbe gestured for his guest to sit down first. He was, admittedly, very nervous. This wasn't an existence he could stand against.

The demigod sat down without much fuss, but it was clear from his expression that he was annoyed.

Starbe sat down across from him when it seemed safe to do so, “I apologize for calling Your Eminence so late in the day.”

“Haaa...” Destruction sighed, his brows scrunched up, “Enough pleasantries. Don't waste my time.”

“Of course.” He agreed quickly, “I'm sure Your Eminence knows the truth about the Empire's third Hero and his child. You are here because of them correct?”

The deity shot him a subtle glance, “I am.”

“That's good. I'm sure Your Eminence wants to get rid of the threat.” Starbe smiled darkly as Destruction nodded, “I may just be a humble Duke, but I am willing to lend whatever aid I am able to offer in this endeavor.”

The demigod raised an eyebrow, he seemed amused, “You can help me get rid of the threat? You, a mere mortal noble?”

“At least I hope so.” He held a hand over his heart, “Evil people should pay for their crimes, don't you think?”

“I do.” The other smirked, “I want to get rid of the threat very much.” He gestured grandly towards Starbe, “And you can indeed help me. What do you think about exposing the stain on this world in front of all the nobility? I will, of course, protect all innocent parties present.”

Starbe hesitated, “I cannot do so in front of the nobility without proof. I know the child is a demon in disguise, but I have no physical evidence. Of course, once I have proof, I will help without question.”

“Then there's no problem!” Destruction exclaimed happily, “As far as evidence is concerned, is there any need for it? I can just tell everyone what that child really is! He won't be able to hide his eyes with me around!” He arrogantly smiled at Starbe, “You just need to make sure the fucker's right there, so everyone can know why we're going to throw hands.”

“Thank you, Your Eminence!” He bowed his head, a huge smile on his face, “Then I'll start to make preparations to hold a noble gathering. Once the third 'Hero' returns, we'll be able to gather everyone at short notice.”

“Make sure it's in the palace.” Destruction grinned, an evil glint in his eyes, “It will be more impactful and damning if it's in front of your human ruler, after all.”

“Yes, I understand.”

“It's good that you have the brains to.” He chuckled, “Since we're at it, why not tell them about your 'good deeds' as well?”

The Duke was taken aback, “Excuse me?” What did he know? He was afraid for a second, but the demigod didn't move, prompting him to calm down.

“I am well aware of your actions concerning Deon Hardt, but you're trying to eradicate the mess you created.” He laughed, “So why not make it seem like you knew he would be in cahoots with the demons? That your actions are justified!” Destruction leaned back in his seat, “I don't care how you say it, you just need to mention that you've been working for the Empire's sake all this time. I'm sure even those brainless fools will understand the gravity of the situation.”

Yes. No one would be dumb enough to defend Deon Hardt in that type of situation. It would significantly boost his image in the eyes of the public, as well. The nobles might be disturbed and realize he doomed a helpless child he was now using to his advantage, but so what?

Who doesn't have a few skeletons in their closet? Ultimately, he would be hailed as a Hero of the people. That was the most important thing.

It was him, Duke Illuster, who got rid of the demons henchmen and not Eduardo Desert, the Emperor.

He had a Demigod backing him, who could oppose his words?

Chapter Text

They had returned to Deon's room not long after Deceiver was done torturing the prisoner. Well, personally, at least. The human was most certainly still trapped in something.

Deon was nearly fully recovered, so Deceiver began to speak, “It would be best to take him to Esperanas now.”

Cavert was confused, “Esperanas? Why would we need to take him there?”

Deceiver calmly checked Deon's temperature before answering, “That's where his soul is.”

“Why is his soul in Esperanas?” Cavert was thoroughly confused.

The god shrugged, “Among the human realm, it's the most guarded. Not to mention our, ah, little 'helper' is there right now.”

“Did you threaten someone to work with you?”

Deceiver smiled with closed eyes, “Not really...?” He gave another shrug, “We did make sure he knew the consequence of failure, however.”

Cavert deadpanned, “So you threatened him.”

“No.” The god acted offended, “I persuaded him, persuaded.”

“...Sure.” He gave up, the man wouldn't admit to it anyway. “So who did you persuade?”

“The demigod of Esperanas.” His smile turned smug, “I ensured his existence, in exchange, he helps us. Besides, he can't to anything to me.”

“...” The Demon King wasn't sure what to say, “You're not bullying your siblings, right?”

“...What gave you that idea?” The god asked, “If anything, they were the ones bullying me. At this point, it would only be called justice.”

“Well, are you?”

“No.” Deceiver looked disgusted, “Dad would scold me if I did.”

Cavert pointedly raised an eyebrow, “Is Deon your entire moral compass, or something?”

Deceiver wisely chose not to answer.

The sky was slowly turning dark as night fell. With how things turned out, he was glad he had secured the demigod's help just in time. All his power was gone. The Demon King had cut off the magic he'd given him.

The Duke didn't understand why. He knew it was connected to Deon Hardt, but he was just a single human, what importance did he hold? There was no need for the Demon King to get upset.

Worse yet is that he had no confirmation of the young Hardt's death. The two assassins he had sent had both perished. The last one, tasked with poisoning the man's meal should there be an opportunity, had at least managed to leave behind a message.

Starbe wasn't sure whether he was actually captured or fled. The message revealed that the other assassin had been taken prisoner so fleeing was a possibility. With one captured, they already knew he was behind everything, so naturally, they would look out for the other assassin in his direction.

All he knew now was that the plan had worked. Deon Hardt had both been poisoned and shot multiple times. Logically, the young man was dead or at least nearly dead, but the demons response time was fast, so he couldn't be sure.

The result leaned towards death, however, as the Demon King had only cut off his magic recently. While this could be attributed towards the first assassin being quite good at holding his tongue, the Duke was sure that wasn't the case. Those people weren't particularly known for their loyalty.

In the end, whatever the case may be, the 'child' was still alive and well in the Empire and would suffice for the plan made with the demigod. He could always send more people to check on the state of affairs in the demon realm.

If they confirmed Deon Hardt's death, the plan could be pushed forward. If not... well, it would go just as planned.

All the resources the demons wasted on the man would be for nothing, whether he lived or not. It could be considered a good thing. Anything used now couldn't be used later. It was only to humanity's advantage.

Cavert sent Jaykar out after telling him to watch over the castle so he could accompany Deceiver to Esperanas. It wasn't that Cavert asked to come along, the god had asked first.

Of course, Cavert would have asked if Deceiver hadn't.

He wasn't going to leave Deon alone for the being. Like hell.

Their plans to leave as soon as possible were halted by a loud bang!

It was followed by another one. Cavert sighed. Who was causing trouble now? Were they tired of living?

He looked at Deceiver and was surprised to find him sporting a look of disgust and annoyance, “Someone you know?”

The god's face scrunched up and he grumbled, “Yes, my brother. I'll deal with-” He stopped mid-sentence with wide eyes and his face eased up considerably. He smiled at Cavert with what could only be described as glee, “You go deal with it.”

Cavert thought he heard wrong, “Sorry?”

Deceiver still had a wide smile on his face, “Your kid, your problem.” The chaos outside continued as he kept smiling, “You're not going to make me do it, right? Imagine making your kid do your job.” His smile turned into a smirk, “I wonder what dad would say?”

“...” Well, he... wasn't exactly wrong. Cavert sighed and left the room to deal with it. But in the first place, how was he supposed to calm his other 'kid' down? Since two of Deceiver's siblings were 'sisters' and he knew Balance pretty well at this point, it couldn't be any of them. That left the one who stayed with Deon in the Empire.

Considering he was pretty well behaved around Deon, his human hadn't mentioned anything in regards to calming him down. He could already guess that his presence wouldn't have the same effect as Deon's, not to mention he didn't know what set him off in the first place.

He wasn't really sure how to deal with the situation, so he didn't hurry. If anyone died, it was their own fault for being too weak.

As he got closer, it became clear someone was yelling.

“-at fucker here!” Ah, that must be his 'son', “That bloody bastard! Where is he?!” He sure had a foul mouth, “Fucking asshole just left and never came back! I'll tear him a new one! Where the hell is he?!”

Cavert could finally see them. Destruction was holding a demon by the neck, nearly strangling him. Quite frankly, he wasn't sure how the demon was supposed to answer when he couldn't even breathe. He looked around the castle town, a good portion of it had been destroyed.

He sighed, what a mess.

Destruction was still yelling, “I swear, if you don't tell me where his sorry ass is, I'll wring all your necks! It's one thing to leave! Fine! I can hold my own against an enemy but because that shitty guy never returned I had to deal with that grapefruit bastard alone! I'll kill him!”

“'Grapefruit bastard?'” Slipped out of Cavert's mouth before he realized.

Everyone froze. Destruction actually looked surprised to see him. Was he so engrossed in his rant he failed to account for his surroundings? Then again, a demigod of destruction probably didn't have much to be wary of.

“I'd appreciate it if you dropped the demon you're holding.” He stated calmly. While he didn't care much if someone died, now that he was here, he should at least contain the damage from spreading further.

The demigod unceremoniously dropped him. He shot an unimpressed look at Cavert, arrogantly showing off his now empty hand grandiosely, “There, dropped him.”

“I can see that.” He responded dryly, “Who are you looking for?”

Destruction's eye twitched, “My fucking brother! Because he didn't come back I had no excuse not to talk to that dried out purple raisin!”

Cavert shook his head. These demigods, “Unless your brother can see the future, how was he supposed to know that would happen?”

“He put a tracker on the damn guy! No way in hell he didn't know we met!”

“So did he put a tracker on you, too?” Cavert questioned, “Because otherwise, I still don't see how he could tell. Did this 'purple raisin' come to your house? Is that why he should have been able to tell?”

Destruction looked ready to loudly respond when he stilled with his mouth wide open. It fell closed as his brows scrunched together, “Tsk!”

...So in other words, Deceiver had no way to know this would happen. How did Cavert know Deceiver was the brother mentioned? Well, it was obvious.

Not to mention that Deceiver and Destruction had stayed together in the Empire, the full god had looked like he'd just gotten out of a fight when he arrived and the demigod was loudly complaining about fighting someone.

Who were they fighting? Cavert had no idea and at the current point in time, no desire to know. He just wanted this over with so they could bring Deon to Esperanas.

“I can bring you to your brother.” He offered, “But fix this mess first.”

“What mess?” Destruction asked, way too sincerely for Cavert's liking. He just pointed behind the demigod. Destruction looked over his shoulder, “Oh, that. Yeah, no, I can't deal with that. Listen, I destroy shit, not fix it.”

The Demon King held in another sigh. Why were they all like this? Out of the ones he's met so far, Balance was his favorite. At least that one didn't make any sort of trouble. He wasn't sure about the sisters yet.

He hadn't talked much with Observer, let alone seen Creation. It was still incredibly hard to believe he had kids.

It became less hard, however, when they showed just how little they'd been parented. He felt the urge to ask what their parents had been doing when they raised them but never mind that they hadn't been raised by anyone at all, asking that would just be cursing himself.

And Deon. Let alone that he didn't want to curse his human for this, if he asked that question these kids would immediately get mad at him for implying Deon did something wrong. It was painfully obvious they had a favorite parent and it definitely wasn't him.

He sighed after all and held the demigod's gaze, “Then what do you intent to do about all this?”

Destruction stared back without scruple, “Nothing.” He shrugged, “Like I said, not my job.”

Cavert pinched the bridge of his nose, “So you're just going to leave it like that?”

The demigod crossed his arms, “Obviously.”

Just as he wondered about the feasibility of scolding a deity, he heard a soft sigh, followed by the rubble lifting itself into the air and moving. Their surroundings slowly restored themselves as a bright light shined. As it receded, it turned into a girl.

With white hair and gold and black eyes, the Demon King was certain this was his last remaining child. She looked pretty done as she glared at Destruction before schooling her expression into something neutral as she looked at him.

She gave a simple curtsy and addressed him, “Nice to meet you, I'm Creation. Deceiver must have told you about me.” She quickly glanced at Destruction, then lightly bowed her head towards Cavert, “My apologies for my brother's actions. Frankly, he's an idiot.”

“Hey!” Destruction yelled, “What's a thing like you insulting me for?!”

She ignored him completely as she proceeded to talk, “As you can see, I've restored our surroundings, although the demons that perished remain so. Revival is not something I'm adept in.”

“Ah, no, if they're dead, they had it coming.” He responded, “The castle town being destroyed was far more annoying.”

She nodded expressionlessly, “That's good.”

Deceiver suddenly popped up behind him, “Yes, that's good! That means we can get going now.”

Destruction's temper flared up again as he saw him, “You-! Come here right now! I had to deal with that purple fuck because of you!”

Deceiver seemed confused, “He approached you?” He pulled a face, “Why the hell?”

Cavert shot him a reprimanding look, “Don't you start swearing, too.”

“I didn't see you stopping him.” The god gestured at his brother.

The Demon King looked at Destruction, eyes full of skepticism, “I think that one's a lost cause.”

“Hey!” The demigod raged.

Cavert shrugged his shoulders. He was just sharing an observation. In any case, Deceiver was right. Now that the problem was resolved they should head off already.

Unfortunately, things were trying really hard not to go per plan today. A new commotion was making itself know, but at least this one had the decency to come to them.

“There's a problem!” A harried demon barged into the scene, looking ready to cry, “There's a Hero and he's being weird!”

Chapter Text

The Demon King ran a hand over his face. What was going on today?

He turned towards the messenger, already not wanting to deal with it, but a Hero was serious business, “Which Hero is it? And how is he being weird?”

“I- I don't know! It's not one of the two we know about and there's talk of a fourth Hero in the Empire... So it's either the third or fourth Hero!”

Well, it couldn't be the third. That one was currently unconscious in the castle.

The problem with the fourth Hero was that the information wasn't entirely compiled yet, not to mention that his appointment as an 'official' Hero wasn't done yet.

He could think about that later. If he was a problem, Cavert would just get rid of him. “And the weird part?”

“He wandered in through a nearby border and started making a fuss, saying he wanted to see his brother! Then he stabbed his sword into the ground and repeated his demand!” The demon had tears in his eyes, “He refused to fight us no matter what, just exclaiming that he wanted his brother, but made no move to tell us what he looks like. We don't know why he would look for him here either! Why would we have a Hero's brother here?!”

Cavert felt a headache come up. To his surprise, he heard Deceiver sigh behind and mutter something along the lines of 'stupid' and 'uncle'. Don't tell him the fourth Hero was Deon's brother?

The messenger kept talking, “But he refused to listen to us! He's convinced we have his brother!” The he dropped a vital piece of information, “He also had the assassin we were looking for with him! He said he'd give him to us if we let him see his brother...”

It was Deon's brother. “I see.” He gritted his teeth, why was everything happening at once today? “Bring him here.”

“But- He's a Hero...!”

Cavert glared at him, “Did I stutter? Since he isn't here to fight I can make an exception. Go get him.”

“Y-yes!”

As the Demon ran off, Cavert sighed.

Deceiver snickered behind him as he watched the messenger leave, “Guess that's why you couldn't find that assassin. He must have caught him early on.”

“It would appear so.” He answered. Why did Deon's brother have to be a Hero?

Hopefully, the changes in the World would take full effect soon. It was already clear to Cavert that things had began to differ from the past. He could no longer feel that blatant rejection from the World. He felt less hostile towards the word 'Hero'.

Maybe they could hold a good chat after Deon was healed- him and Cruel Hardt. Not only about Deon, but about the state of the world moving forward. If the Demon and Human realms no longer needed to wage war on the World's behalf, then things could change and he'd rather discuss it with his beloved Commander's brother first before he approached any other humans about this.

They had to wait for a bit, but the demon came back a little later with Cruel Hardt in tow, the 'hostage' slung over the human's shoulder.

The atmosphere was a little tense as they looked at each other.

Cruel spoke up first, “I'll give him to you after seeing my brother.”

Cavert rejected that, “I don't want him anywhere near my Commander.”

They stared at each other for a moment. Cruel's eyes went past him and landed on Deceiver, then he made another offer, “I'll hand this guy over to my... nephew. Then you'll let me see my brother.”

“And then we'll get the assassin?”

“Yes.” He nodded.

They stared at each other once more, before the Demon King agreed, “Okay.”

Deceiver looked annoyed, “Don't I get a say in this?” He shot a disgusted look at the prisoner, “I don't want to touch that.”

“You can torture him as much as you want.” Cavert offered.

The god perked up, “I'll take him.”

Beside them, Destruction broke out into laughter at his brother's answer as Creation just sighed.

The human looked warily at the demigods, especially the demigod of destruction, “Why is the Demigod of Destruction here?”

“Can't I be?” Destruction questioned, still laughing, “Uncle?”

“...Uncle?” Cruel looked perplexed and confused, “...I'm not that old?”

Destruction laughed harder.

Creation sighed again as she addressed the human, “Please ignore him for now. I'm sure you'll get your answers later.”

He nodded hesitantly, then looked at Cavert who shrugged and turned, walking back into the castle. Cruel followed him in, the deities not far behind.

Deon was dreaming. It was a very long dream.

Many scenes passed through his mind and many he forgot but after a long time, he dreamed a dream where he felt less like he was watching a memory and more like he was experiencing it.

He was running through a forest. He didn't know why. This body wasn't under his control but he felt and heard everything the man whose eyes he was seeing through did.

Nothing was chasing him but he felt like he needed to hurry, like something terrible would happen if he didn't. Thoughts not his own were passing through his head like a broken record.

'They're all gone.'

'He's the only one left.'

'I can't lose him as well.'

'I can't lose him.'

'I can't lose him.'

They were frantic and filled with panic as his body stumbled through the woods. Finally, after a long, long time, he burst out of the woods, encountering a wide plain. He didn't stop. Further and further and he could finally see two figures in the distance.

The smaller was kneeling on the ground, holding his bleeding arm. He was so incredibly, painfully familiar to him. Seeing him like this scared Deon.

'There!'

As they got ever closer, Deon could see that his head was bleeding, too. He ground to a halt in front of the smaller, bringing his breathing under control and positioned himself protectively before him.

The other, larger figure began to speak. Deon couldn't tell who or what the being cloaked in shadows was. “You dare stand against me?”

“I do.” He drew the sword hanging by his waist and pointed it at the creature, “I won't let you do this.”

“He's a scourge. He'll spell your doom.” The being exclaimed, “He's hurt you once, he'll hurt you again. Don't be foolish, Raven.”

“He's all I have left.” 'Raven' replied, he looked at the being with an unfaltering gaze, “He did everything right. Even if his inside hasn't changed, his actions have.”

“Have you forgotten his sins?”

“I haven't.” 'Raven' clarified, “But he's making up for it. How can he atone if you kill him?”

“The moment you're gone, he'll go right back to his old ways.”

“I hadn't planned on leaving so soon.” 'Raven' closed his eyes and Deon could feel some kind of determination be made. He spoke again as he opened his eyes, “But I will if it means he lives.”

“I won't allow you to reincarnate.” The figure hissed in anger, “There will be no one to stop him.”

“He won't hurt anyone.” 'Raven' was convinced of that.

“Neither will he help. He will watch this world wither away.”

“It's not his job to ensure it doesn't.” The man held his sword higher, “This doesn't need to be discussed. My mind won't change.”

“...” The creature sighed, “As you wish.”

'Raven' gripped the sword tighter, a presence securely brushing against his back. His breathing slowed as he concentrated on the enemy.

[The Guardian Deity will protect you.]

Who? “I know.” There was a smile on 'Raven's' face, “Let's go.”

They lunged towards the creature, starting a fierce battle.

They lost.

Deon wasn't sure what happened. But the result was 'Raven's' loss. It seems that's what the man had expected as well. The creature had withdrawn, leaving the dying man alone with the injured man he'd defended.

Deon felt conflicted as he laid eyes on the other man. Deceiver. It was his son. He was all grown up. He looked exactly the same as the last time Deon had seen him in a dream, just that this time, he knew it was his Didi and not someone else.

Deceiver looked at 'Raven' who was laying sprawled out on the ground with anguish in his eyes. 'Raven' mustered up a sad smile, reaching up an injured hand towards the demigod's face.

Deon acutely felt 'Raven's' last remaining feelings and thoughts before he succumbed to eternal slumber.

It was hope and belief.

Hope that Deceiver would live well and have fun. Belief that he would become a great god and eventually learn to love more than just his parents. Belief that, no matter how long it would take, he would become someone worthy of being a god and act like it.

There was a lot more, but Deon couldn't even begin to describe it.

But he understood now. The endless belief of 'Raven' is what pushed Deceiver forward. It's also what made him turn his back to this world, where his father would never be reborn, and watch it slowly bring about its own destruction.

But it was still the world he'd been born in, the world of his parents. That's why, even after the world was destroyed, Deceiver couldn't help but cradle its remains.

What Deon had seen him hold so preciously back then had been their world.

His field of vision swam and turned dark and he was trapped in an endless void.

The creature's voice resonated all around him as it manifested before him, “Shall we talk?”

Cruel was incredibly relieved as he saw his brother peacefully lying on the bed, the worst of his injuries healed. He was right in believing that the demons would help him.

He had been worried as he learned from the assassin's mouth that his brother had been taken by the demons right after being shot. The man had tried to pin the poison and injuries on the demons, but Cruel had... persuaded him a lot.

He already knew this man was an assassin sent by the duke to kill his brother. Of course, that didn't mean Duke Illuster wasn't working with the demons to get rid of Deon. He'd only kept interrogating the man to get as many details as possible.

Seeing his brother now, he was happy he had people that cared about him, even if they weren't human.

There were a lot of things that still confused him, like why his nephew was suddenly all grown up or why a demigod that should be in the Empire was here, but those things could all wait.

Most importantly was his brother's condition, which he had been assured would be solved soon and secondly...

Something about the way the Demon King looked at his brother bothered him. Cruel did not like that look, not one bit.

He didn't know what about it was off, just that it was. Hell, maybe there wasn't anything wrong with it and this weird feeling just came from the fact that he had a Hero fragment and was near the Demon King.

The fragment's reaction to demons had been getting lighter in recent times, but this was the Demon King, so whatever was going on either had no effect or needed longer precisely because it was the Demon King.

It honestly felt weird just standing beside humanity's enemy while being a Hero. Still, his brother came first. Cruel wouldn't allow his brother to think they abandoned him again. He would help the demons destroy the Empire if it meant his Deon's happiness.

His brother had been hurt enough, it was about time the world stopped toying with him. If he had to become a monster to do so, so be it.

Deon was the most important.

Chapter Text

Esperanas looked just like one would expect from a nation surrounded my mountains. Not that that was a problem. Cavert was just making an observation as Deceiver led them somewhere.

The fourth Hero was holding Deon as they moved. He wasn't sure why they didn't just teleport to the intended destination, but his... children must have their reason.

It wasn't long before they arrived before a large tree, Cavert could feel a peculiar presence from it, “Is this the demigod you were talking about?”

Deceiver nodded, “It is.” The god turned to his uncle, “Lay him down against the trunk. Carefully.”

Cruel nodded and did so, adjusting Deon's position while he was at it, so his brother would be comfortable.

The deities then looked at one another before Creation nodded, went towards the tree and stuck her hand through the bark. It looked like she wasn't touching the bark at all, her hand just disappeared as if the tree was an illusion and went right through without resistance.

As she pulled it out, a white fox appeared in her hand. The fur was the exact same color as Deon's hair, Cavert noticed. Was that his soul?

She held it carefully as she brought it over to Deon's body. As she lowered it on top of the human's body, Cavert turned to Deceiver, “Is that his soul?”

He nodded, “The half we repossessed has this shape and the other was fragmented, so when we fused them, it looked like this. It will naturally change once back in his body.”

Cruel chimed in, “Will he be fine once his soul is returned?”

“He should be.” A voice came from behind. As Cavert turned he saw Balance along with Observer, who had been missing until now. The demigod of balance kept talking, “He might even be a little stronger. Not only did he become more powerful in his last incarnation, his soul and name have been returned. The effects haven't lessened just because the world was rewound.”

“Not to mention,” Observer spoke up, “that we had the demigod here keep watch over his soul. It must have been rather healing, spending so much time near a divine entity.”

The Demon King nodded, signaling that he understood. He looked back at Deon, who was quietly fusing with his own soul. It wouldn't be long until he was finally okay again.

“Well then!” Deceiver exclaimed before going up to Deon and sitting down beside him. The other demigods quickly followed, Creation claiming the other space beside Deon, “Since it will take a bit, let's wait here.”

Seeing them taking all the places near Deon, Cavert and Cruel resigned themselves with sitting a bit farther away, with Cavert taking a seat beside Destruction and Cruel beside Observation.

Balance was between Destruction and Deceiver, making Cavert wonder if he intentionally did so to act as a buffer. It wasn't particularly a wrong move, as Cavert himself had sat beside his entirely black-haired child to make sure any trouble could be contained.

He wasn't exactly ready to subject the fourth Hero to that as Deon would absolutely blame him if something happened to his brother.

Deon woke up slowly. As he opened his eyes, he realized with a sigh that he was in Esperanas. Those kids...

He wasn't sure what to say, so he just fondly shook his head as he glanced at his children all sitting beside him. To think he'd ever meet all of them. Cavert was also there, leaning against the tree trunk.

Deceiver's gaze met his and Deon smiled, reaching out his hand and ruffling the god's hair. His child happily threw himself at him, turning back into a child-like form, “Dad!”

The demigod's beside them pretended not to glance at them before looking away again. The girl beside him, Creation if he wasn't wrong, tugged on his sleeve.

She also glanced up at him before directing her gaze to the ground, then back up again. “...” The grip on his sleeve got tighter as she hesitantly opened her mouth, “...Fa... father.”

He smiled and stretched out his free arm, “Come here.” She also dove into his arms, turning herself into a child. The others were eyeing him even more with this, causing him to give an amused sigh, “All of you can come here.”

They glanced at each other and then dove in. Perhaps to make sure everyone would fit, they all turned small as they hugged him, some looking more embarrassed than the others. He put his arms around them and took turns patting their heads. He made sure to give the embarrassed demigods more pats, like Destruction.

The deity glared at him in response, but Deon just kept patting his head until he gave up with a huff and sank into the hug. Someone in the bundle was chuckling at the sight of this. Seeing that it was Deceiver, who was now the one receiving Destruction's glare, he patted his head as well.

Sensing movement, he looked up and saw that Cavert had stood up and was now looking at them with amusement dancing in his eyes. Seeing him come closer, the children collectively glared at him and Cavert quietly took a step back with a smile, his hands up in surrender.

Deon gently patted their heads and silently laughed, “Don't do that.” As a result, the children snuggled deeper into his arms. He might have seen a smug look or two being sent the Demon King's way, but that wasn't his problem. He softly stroked their hair as their breathing evened out.

Were they falling asleep? They must have worked hard if they felt like going to sleep.

Cavert, who had failed to join the pile, had sat down beside them instead and watched them. If Deon wasn't wrong, the look in his eyes was fond.

...The two of them had a lot to talk about, but they could do so later.

Perhaps sensing his gaze, the demon was now looking directly at him. He seemed entertained as he pointed to Deon's other side. Confused, he turned his head and saw Cruel, who had since taken the place Creation vacated.

It took him a moment to process. Then he stretched out his hand and patted Cruel's head, too. The older man seemed stunned and Deon barely contained his laughter, not wanting to disturb the kids.

Cruel blinked, then regained his composure, “I thought you'd be... less receptive. Of my being here.”

Deon looked down at his children and gently smiled, “Well, you aren't wrong in thinking that. But let's talk about it later.”

His older brother nodded. In the end, the three of them just ended up watching the kids sleep. Nobody voiced the question if they were actually sleeping, because it wasn't really important.

A few hours later, they finally started to 'wake up' one after another. Truthfully, Deon's legs were hurting from the long wait and the weight, so he followed their lead and stretched. Doing so was incredibly refreshing.

When he was done, he lightly pulled on Deceiver's cheek, “So, what did you do?”

After he let go, the god rubbed that spot, his face was sullen, “I didn't do anything.”

“Funny,” he replied, “I heard something else from the god of death.”

The deities all flinched and nervously looked up at him. The the story poured out.

Deon had a headache just from listening. He already knew but to get confirmation that Deceiver really rewound the world...

They also attacked Death in order to regain the half of Deon's soul that was lost long ago. They were all mad, saying that the god had intentionally grabbed a hold of Deon's soul-half so they couldn't merge the two halves.

Not anyone elses, despite there being many who had died from losing half their soul, only Deon's. Clearly he was doing it to get back at Deon and them!

Deon huffed in amusement and decided not to tell them the truth. They were smart enough to eventually figure it out on their own.

It was... nice. Seeing them being so indignant on his behalf. In a good mood, he turned to his brother, “Shall we talk?”

The sound of footsteps could be heard from the Emperor's office as the man walked to the window and looked out.

The Duke had asked to hold a banquet for Honorary Count Hardt when the man returned and Eduardo was certain it wasn't with good intention. He was well aware of how much the noble hated Deon Hardt.

But not only did he have good reasoning, he had also asked in front of many other nobles. The Emperor didn't have a lot of reasons to stop the banquet.

He could have just said no either way, but this wasn't the time to make the noble faction more unhappy than they already were. It wasn't like Duke Illuster would send assassins into an event.

Eduardo didn't like it but he would just have to deal with it as it came. Worst case, Count Hardt might have to suffer a bit of damage. What damage could the Duke possibly do at an event like this?

Far more important was the fight with the demons. They were already in possession of a few of the Empire's territories and their own army had trouble holding on. Eduardo would have to send someone as reinforcement.

Nemeseus, as his personal guard, was not in consideration. It was the same with Deon and Stigma, who were away on their own assignments. That only left Cruel Hardt, who was in possession of a Hero's Fragment.

That man, wanting to be a support to the brother who hated him, had started to build achievements to serve this purpose. Fighting on the front lines against the demons would be the greatest achievement he could get in the current times.

The only problem was that he had no idea where Cruel Hardt was. That family just loved to give him headaches.

“Is it okay to leave them alone?” Cruel wondered as he sat on a patch of grass, a distance away from Cavert and the 'children'.

“It's fine.” Deon replied, sitting down as well, “At most, they will just give him a headache.”

They were both silent for a moment as they watched the Demon King try to entertain the five deities.

Deon opened his mouth, “I'm sorry.”

Cruel's head whipped around, “No- no, there's nothing for you to apologize for.”

The younger of the two sighed softly, “There's a lot. I will tell you the rest in detail later, but both you and our parents, I owe you both apologies.”

“You really don't!” Cruel shook his head, “We were the ones who failed you in the first place. We even messed up before you were... taken to war.” His gaze was downcast as he looked at the ground, “We never noticed how you felt. If it weren't for that, how could such a misunderstanding have happened in the first place?”

“I should still have done more to ensure I was right before acting.” He thought back on his first life as Deon and how he killed his parents, “It's only thanks to Deceiver that everything turned out so well in regards to our family.”

“What do you mean?”

“I'm sure you must have heard a bit from them already, about how time was turned back.”

His older brother nodded, “I did.”

“I did some terrible things in that life.” Deon admitted with a heavy heart, “So far, I haven't repeated my mistakes, but I could have. I was going to, had it not been for Deceiver.”

“...” Cruel kept quiet for a moment as he thought his words over, “I'm sure we forgave you. No matter what, none of it would have been your fault. You must have been hurting terribly, thinking we hated you and wanted to kill you.”

“Don't you think-” Deon chuckled darkly, “-that just makes it worse? Knowing you did something so terrible and the victim doesn't even blame you.” He sighed, “I didn't just hurt mom and dad and you, I hurt many, many people. Cruel,” He emphasized, “I completely destroyed the Empire, humanity as a whole suffered greatly because of me. I became the Enemy of Humanity.”

“...But right now you're still 'Deon'.” Cruel smiled at him, “No matter what happened in that life, it's over. You're here and you're doing better. And since you returned from the war-” His brother's smile widened, “-you look happier than I've ever seen you before. You're not that person anymore.”

Chapter Text

After they all returned to the Demon King's Castle, they split up. Cruel had to return to the human realm and went back along with Destruction, Balance still had to oversee some things on the World Tree's end and was accompanied by the remainder of his siblings minus Deceiver, who simply refused to leave.

Deon managed to shoehorn his remaining child to scour the area around the castle, as to prevent any more unwelcome surprises. It was obviously just a flimsy excuse to get him to go away for a while, but Deceiver obliged rather easily.

When that was done, he went with Cavert to the Demon King's office under the premise of talking about what happened and the information gained from the prisoners. Well, it wasn't entirely an excuse, Deon very much wanted to know that, too.

As the sat opposite each other on the sofas they were only separated by a single table. Deon took a slow sip from his cup of tea, prepared by a servant before they left and the door closed for the last time.

He spoke up first, “The assassins were sent by Duke Illuster, correct?”

“They were.” Cavert nodded with a grimace, “But it's inexcusable that they were able to get so far into the demon realm and even managed to single out and poison specific food. The settlements near borders have received specific instructions to prevent this from happening again.”

“Do they even know how to prevent it?”

“These two spilled about how they infiltrated during the interrogation, so we at least know that. I've also looked at possible loopholes and gave orders to prevent anything on these fronts.”

Deon set his cup down, “What are we doing about Duke Illuster?”

“What do you want to do?” Cavert smiled, “Since you're the victim, I'll let you decide.”

“...” The human sighed, “Let's leave it until I can deal with it then.”

Doing something against the Duke right now was stupid. If they found out Deon had to do with it, he'd have a giant problem while in the Human Realm.

As if the Demon King knew his thoughts, he spoke up, “We can kidnap him. Nobody would think you're involved. We can even lay traces to make it look like someone specific. Is there anyone you really hate in the Empire?”

Plenty. Deon lips twitched. Although the peak of his hate only concerned a few individuals, there were many more who just looked past many of the wrong doings happening in the Empire as a whole and not just Deon.

But if he dealt with them, he wanted to do it personally. And sometimes, death wouldn't solve anything and neither would senseless torture.

He shook his head, “No need.”

“Okay.” The Demon King nodded, then fell silent. The atmosphere was about to become awkward when the demon talked again, “Is there more to discuss?”

“There are other things to talk about.” Deon picked up his tea and watched the tea in his cup move as he slowly sloshed it around in a circle. He stopped and looked up at Cavert, “Let's talk about my three conditions.”

The Demon King visibly tensed up at the mention of the conditions Deon added to his and the Emperor's game.

Deon calmly kept talking, “No, to be specific, I want to talk about two of them.” He gave a pointed stare at Cavert, “I gave you a hint for one of them. Unfortunately, it will need to be modified.”

“Because of the other four children.”

“Yes.” Deon nodded, “The original condition was to take care of Deceiver, whether I'm there or not. I could just add the other four and make it a list, but I believe these five can take care of themselves enough. Just don't treat them badly.”

“I won't!” Cavert exclaimed, “They're my kids, too, I won't treat them badly at all!”

“Good.” Deon drank from his tea again, “Then let's talk about the second condition. Did you figure anything out about what the remaining conditions are?”

“...I believe one of them pertains to your family, your estate and the Lofty Knights. You want to be sure that the person you side with keeps them safe.”

“That's correct.” He replied, “Do you think you can do that?”

The Demon King nodded, “I can definitely do that! I even let your brother in, right? Beside the initial confusion, there was no conflict, even though he has a Hero's Fragment. I can dispatch some demons right now to protect your family in the dark. Some good in disguise, so they won't be found out.”

Deon silently looked at him for a moment, “There's no need to go that far just yet. The Lofty Knights will be looking out for them for the time being, so we can revisit the topic again when needed.”

“I understand.” Cavert acknowledged, “Say, did you put those conditions in order?”

“I did.” Deon admitted, “Deceiver's was first, then my loved ones'.”

Quite frankly, by guessing and fulfilling the first two conditions, a good chunk of the third would already be fulfilled as well. Not to mention that now that Deon remembered his first life, some things were clearer to him. There were things the Cavert of the past wouldn't have done or acted like.

The Cavert of the present truly cared about him and did his best to understand him.

So he didn't mind ticking the third box as cleared as well.

Deon calmly drank the rest of his tea and put down the now empty cup, “I'll join the demons.”

Cavert was taken aback, “What?” He looked incredibly flustered as he questioned Deon, “It's not that I don't want you to join, but why so suddenly? Don't I still have a condition to clear?”

“You cleared it.”

“I did?” The Demon King seemed even more confused, “When?”

“Not that long ago.” Deon didn't feel like explaining more than that.

Cavert's face broke into a smile, “That's great! Then you can stay here, right?”

Deon was amused, “Don't try to monopolize me the moment you can. I'm still your spy, right?”

The Demon King's excitement did not diminish, “I can give you another job! Or you can just use that time to relax! How about it?”

“My family lives there.” Deon clarified, “So I'd have to go back anyway, there's a lot I need to talk about with them. It will also make it easier for me to deal with the Duke and the Emperor.”

Now the Demon King was pouting, looking unhappy, “I get it.”

Deon smiled, not able to hide his amusement at the demon's reaction, “That's good.” He looked Cavert in the eyes, “Let's put the past to rest, what do you think? Let's start over.”

The Demon King appeared startled but happy at his words, “Yes, let's do that!” His face stiffened the next second, “...Does that mean you're no longer... angry about what happened?”

Deon thought about his response for a moment, “Let's just say it no longer matters, so no, I'm not angry about anymore.”

The Demon King seemed entirely unconvinced, “That isn't something you can just sweep under the rug. I know it's weird for me to say that, because I want you to be here with me, but isn't it a little soon?”

“I basically had a lifetime to think about that resentment.”

“So you remembered your first life as 'Deon Hardt'?”

Deon nodded, “I suppose it was one of the kids who told you. You could say I took care of things then already, so no need to spare it any more thought. That's why I asked to start over.” He smiled at the Demon King who seemed to accept his answer, “Of course, the same does not apply to the Empire, or more specifically the Duke. He's been really annoying me recently.”

Cavert hesitated before he asked, “...Do you intent to go back soon?”

“Not for now.” The Demon King's shoulders sagged in relief, “I'll go back when you need me to. Or when too much time has passed, it would be bad to make the Emperor suspicious.”

In Deon's honest opinion, he actually wouldn't mind making the Emperor suspicious. Let the man agonize over whether or not Deon had made a decision.

Deon opened his mouth again, “Now that all the important topics of mine are out of the way, is there anything from your side?”

“No.” Cavert shook his head, “Outside of the two assassins we took prisoner there isn't anything of importance happening right now.”

Deon nodded, “Then I'll take that as my sign to leave.” Seeing the Demon King's conflicted expression he suppressed a chuckle.

He reached the door and held the handle in his hand, falling into thought. Now that they were starting over, the past weighted a lot less. Never mind that he'd already avenged everyone and himself, he no longer felt anything negative towards Cavert. A long life after everything will do that, he'd had enough time to put any lingering resentment to rest.

He wouldn't outright tell Cavert about it, nor would he hint at him, but if Cavert asked he would agree. He didn't mind getting together with the Demon King he'd fallen for in a past life shrouded by misery. All their scores were long settled.

“I'm feeling a little tired, so I'll go to bed and sleep. Good night,” He pressed down on the door handle, “-Cavert.” and slipped out before the dumbfounded Demon King could say anything.

Cavert's thoughts stopped for a moment. Deon hadn't called him by name since he found out about Cavert's involvement with his conscription. And even before then, he'd always tacked 'Your Majesty' in front of it.

It felt nice.

He didn't think Deon would call him by anything other than title or honorifics, especially since they only just started over. It was surprising he even used his name in the first place. At most, their relationship would should have been similar to when Deon first joined.

This was a lot better than he expected? That would mean Deon wouldn't mind if he started hanging around him again, right? It wasn't like Cavert was going to overdo it, he knew that there were limits to things like this. He couldn't scare Deon off at this point in time, it would make the goodwill he gained pointless.

The door to his office was opened without warning but Cavert wasn't really surprised by that. He looked at the only one of his children that stayed behind and begun to speak as the door fell closed again, “Is something wrong?”

“No?” Deceiver lips quirked upwards, “Anyway, what did you and dad talk about? You seem awfully happy.”

That made it sound like it was bad for him to be happy. “If he wanted you to know, I think he would have allowed you to join in the first place.”

The god shrugged, “Dad just wanted privacy to talk. That doesn't mean I'm not allowed to know.”

“Then why don't you ask just Deon?”

“Don't feel like it.” Deceiver smiled, “And don't you think it's bad to bother one's parent at my age?”

“Am I not one of your parents as well?” These five deities had all either ignored, glared or acted somewhat rudely to him when it wasn't important.

Deceiver tilted his head, “It's not like you and dad are together yet. So why should I care?”

Chapter Text

It was mostly quiet as Deon wandered around the castle halls and took in the sight of the moons through the window. The demon realm was the place where he was freest, he appreciated that greatly.

As he watched the demons go about their daily lives he was reminded of the past. He'd seen all of this before but it had been so long that much had faded from memory, so seeing it again was refreshing.

Times when Ed and Ben swarmed around him, concerned about his health. When Ririnell excitedly talked to him and he patted her head and conversations he held with Jaykar. He had much more friendly memories here than in the human realm he was born in.

Deon had the most hatred and access to the Demon King, making him a perfect candidate for the 'Hero'. For the 'Warrior'.

If the past had never happened and his resentment towards the Demon King did not exist, would the World still have chosen him? Would have chosen him based solely on the fact that he was close to Cavert?

He had no answer to that question. He didn't want one either. If the World messed with them this time, he had his children to fall back on and in the worst case, Death would intervene.

Maybe making him the Warrior wouldn't even work. He had already confirmed with Cruel that in the short time he was near Cavert, he felt no urge to harm him and even the slightest traces were gone by the time they arrived in Esperanas. So there shouldn't even be a need to worry.

He would have no reason or need to destroy the demons in this timeline. They could live happily together. A pained smile formed on his face at the thought. If only this could have been the case in the past.

“What are you thinking about?” Deon looked behind him and saw Cavert, who smiled at him, “If you're going to smile, why not happily?”

Deon sighed and shrugged, “Because I'm not thinking about something happy right now.”

“Then what would make you happy?”

It was clear the Demon King was already trying to get close to Deon as soon as possible, “I don't know.”

That was a bit of a lie. He just needed to stop thinking about it and he would stop being sad, it wasn't like he could change what has already happened. Not to mention that there were plenty of things in this life that made him happy.

“You could play the violin for me.” Deon suggested with a sly smile, “I've missed hearing you play.”

Cavert blinked in surprise, then smiled down at him, “Okay, I can do that. What piece do you want to hear?”

“Mh~” He hummed, “No idea. How about something slow and calm?”

The Demon King nodded, agreeing. He took the lead, bringing them both back to the office. Perhaps because he wanted only Deon to hear it.

Deon made himself comfortable on the sofa he had left not long ago and looked at Cavert who already had his violin in hand.

As the Demon King began to play his piece, Deon watched him closely. As the music entered his ears, he slowly relaxed.

It was a piece he could distantly remember being played when he was very young and stuck in his room. He thinks it may have been his mother who was playing or perhaps even his father, he wasn't sure.

There was something beautiful about it that made him think of the garden at home and the times he played chess with Cruel. He had to wonder if Cavert knew that Deon was acquainted with the piece and played it on purpose.

He didn't mind, he just wondered.

Perhaps he should convince Cavert to play for Deceiver and the rest of their kids one of these days.

...Deon still wasn't quite used to all of them being here. The other four weren't really around when he was Raven. But that didn't really matter anymore, they were here now. He definitely wouldn't abandon his own kids, even if all of them were already adults.

The Demon King better not think of doing so either, not only had he given Deon his word that he'd look after them, he simply believed Cavert wouldn't abandon them.

He stopped thinking about it and continued to listen to the sounds of the violin as he closed his eyes. It was really peaceful like this.

Cavert kept playing the violin as Deon gently closed his eyes. It had been a while since he'd last played so he kept steady. He really didn't want to accidentally embarrass himself in front of Deon by missing something or making an incorrect sound. But the longer he played the more he relaxed as he eased back into these familiar habits he learned long ago.

Had it not been for the events of the last few days, he would have questioned how Deon knew he could play, but the him of the past must have done so for the human as well.

Which was strange because according to Deceiver, Deon and him weren't on good terms and he might have never even loved Deon. So why would he ever play the violin for him?

Maybe he should ask the child again next time he saw him, he was really curious about it. Of course, there was always the chance that Deceiver didn't know either or might not tell him on the basis that they weren't together, thereby making him ineligible to the information concerning their relationship.

Well, he should make those children of his happy as soon as possible.

He kept gliding the bow over the instrument and thought about how to do that. What he was doing now was already a good start but he couldn't only rely on music. Deon might get bored quickly.

“We could have a tea party in the garden tomorrow.” Cavert suggested as the piece came to an end.

Humans had tea parties all the time and Deon was born a noble. He had definitely been invited to some before, if only as a courtesy. The difference was that the ones held by nobles were all formal occasions, Cavert would make this one a casual and comfortable one.

Deon opened his eyes and threw him a questioning glance, “A tea party?”

He nodded, “Exactly, just a normal get-together. It can be just the two of us or we could invite any of the children, if not all that are available.”

Deon hummed, “It's not that bad of an idea. Sure, why not.”

“Then it's decided.” Cavert was incredibly happy. That was more time he could spend directly with Deon, “Should I pick you up?”

The human shook his head, “I know the way to the gazebo.” He smiled gently, “I will meet you there.”

They talked for a bit more before Deon ultimately left, saying he wanted to visit his Corps. Cavert, on the other hand, used his time to prepare for the next day by deciding what tea and utensils to use. He also made sure all the day's paperwork was done and everything that could take time tomorrow.

By the time the two agreed to meet, the Demon King was already waiting there with tea and snacks. When Deon arrived he pulled out the chair for him and let him sit first, then sat down himself.

He poured both of them some tea, “Did none of the children want to come?”

“I asked, but they didn't want to.” Deon remarked, then looked like he'd just remembered something, “Deceiver specifically is busy and seems to be up to something with Destruction.”

“That's nice.”

Deon shot him a look, “It really isn't. I have no idea what they're up to and that's making me nervous. Especially since Didi is trying really hard to keep it from me.”

“There's no need to be so nervous. Even I understand that they wouldn't harm you or anyone dear to you.”

The human sighed, “It's not about the harm but the stress they'll cause me. Don't underestimate them.”

“You can just try leaving them to me.” He offered, “You've taken care of them so far, I can also help. Isn't that my job anyway?”

“I doubt they'll listen to you.”

“...” Cavert had nothing to say to that. They indeed wouldn't listen at the current moment in time.

Deon seemed to notice this, “Don't take my words too hard. Think of the current situation as them throwing a tantrum because they don't like it.” He chuckled and drank from his tea, “Some things shouldn't be forced and patience is an important virtue in life. Whether it's a little or a lot of time, waiting won't do them any harm.”

The Demon King smiled, “They're just doing it because they love you so much. I'm not going to complain about that.”

“I can't deny that.” Deon admitted with a short laugh. A smile was dancing on his lips, “But sometimes love can go too far, especially if it's warped. It's why I used to have problems with Deceiver.”

“You mean you two used to not get along?”

“Yes.” He nodded, “It's a pretty long story, do you want to hear it?”

“If you're okay with telling it.” Cavert replied. He did want to know more about Deon, but he didn't want to make him uncomfortable either.

“I am.” He confirmed, “Then, where do I begin... Ah, I know.” He smiled and began to narrate the events of a future long overwritten.

Chapter Text

For the next few months, Deon and Cavert met up in the garden and chatted over tea, the latter often performing a piece or two on the violin every so often. Cavert had tried to teach Deon, but the human had never gained much interest in learning, so that plan was shafted.

Instead, the two took up repeating the weapon lessons Deon had been given in his first life, the spear, bow and shield. Much to the Demon King's dismay, Deon hadn't learned swordsmanship from him but from the Emperor. He also had little interest in discarding what he'd learned.

“You need to hold your arms a little higher.” Cavert advised as Deon held the spear.

The human followed the instruction exactly and adjusted his grip, “It's been a while.” He admitted, “But it's good to have the instructor with me now that I'm practicing again.”

The Demon King chuckled, “I'm happy to help.”

One side of Deon's lips quirked up as he looked at Cavert, “Could you help me practice faking low and aiming high? Just go stand there.” He pointed not too far in front of him.

The request amused him, “I'd rather not be your practice target.”

“Shame.” Deon paused and then started to laugh lightly.

Cavert joined in as he helped the human adjust his grip again and brought an actual practice dummy, “I'll join you in practice later. Until then, keep that pointed away from me.”

“Yes, yes.” Deon was still laughing as he begun to lightly hint at the movement before executing it, trying to get a new feel for how it was performed.

The Demon King watched him quietly, only voicing some errors here and there. It was only half an hour later that he stopped Deon from practicing further.

He took the spear from him, “You did well, you just need to work on your balance a bit more.”

The human nodded, wiping some sweat, “And my stamina. It's worlds better than before but it never hurts to have more.”

Cavert noted his exhaustion, “Want to take a walk around the garden to cool off?”

Deon gave him a look, “I'm not the biggest fan of the plants.”

“They won't dare do anything while I'm there.” Then, as if he remembered something, he added, “I also made sure nothing would happen if you decided to go there alone. Very sure.”

He may have threatened the gardener a little after Deon was attacked by a plant last time.

Deon gave him an odd look for a moment longer, then he sighed, “I can take a walk with you but not to cool off. I refuse to run around covered in sweat.”

“That's okay. Then I'll see you later?”

“Yeah.” The human agreed, “We can meet up at the garden entrance once I'm done bathing. I won't take long.”

As per the agreement, they met up again not too long after at the garden. Cavert could see that Deon had put on an entirely new outfit, which wasn't surprising since the other was likely too uncomfortable after working out and taking a bath.

Deon, who did not seem to like wearing complicated clothes, once again wore something simple and casual. He looked significantly more approachable like this than he does in uniform.

A flicker of reflected light caught his eye and he glanced at the source. A brilliant crystal flower was hanging from a silver string wound around his neck. The familiar item caused a smile to bloom on his face.

Seeing Deon wear it felt nice.

Deon noticed he was distracted, “Is something wrong?”

He quickly shook his head, his smile not faltering in the slightest, “No, it's nothing.”

The human raised an eyebrow but left it be after Cavert didn't respond further. He appreciated that. It would be embarrassing to explain that the reason why he was distracted was the gift he'd given Deon all that time ago.

“Shall we go?” He offered instead.

Deon nodded, “Yes.”

“What part of the garden do you want to see?” He asked as they walked, “How about somewhere deep inside?”

“Only if it looks nice.” The human responded, a faint hint of disgust passing through his face, “I still don't want to see any gnarly plant monsters.”

“There aren't a lot of monsters there.” He clarified, “And they don't look that bad either.” He sent a gentle smile Deon's way, “And they won't come out, so it will look like a normal garden.”

“Okay. Then let's go.” He smiled back at Cavert, his smile a bit cheeky, “If some do come out, I'm hiding behind you.”

Cavert humored him, “I'll make sure none will get past me.” He started laughing, “Otherwise, whatever shall I do when one takes a bite out of you?”

Deon deadpanned, “No need to do anything. I'll just... burn the garden a little.”

Cavert laughed a bit harder, “Don't burn down the garden, that would be bad.”

He slowly and nervously stopped laughing as he realized Deon was dead-serious. He stared at the human walking beside him, “Deon, did you ever burn down the garden?”

Deon remained silent, but he was now pressing his lips together.

“Deon...?”

The human avoided his gaze and whispered quietly, “It was an accident.”

The Demon King was dumbfounded, “How did you accidentally burn a garden...?”

...Deon pressed his lips together again and his ears were faintly red. Seems it was now Cavert's turn to let the line of questioning go.

“More importantly, we're nearly there.” He changed the topic, “There's a few different species of flowers, which do you want to see?”

“I don't know what species you have here in the demon realm.” He explained.

“We can go by color or size.” Cavert offered instead.

Deon looked into his eyes for a long moment and smiled, “Then let's look at some black ones first.”

Deon liked hanging out with Cavert like this, it was nice. They exchanged some banter as they looked at the flowers and that made Deon very happy.

It was peaceful like this. There was no trouble and they could just exist. There was no fighting anyone or arguing with someone.

Just quietly enjoying the things around them.

Perhaps that's why he put on that necklace. He was well aware Cavert had not only noticed but also recognized it.

The Demon King seemed so happy that he wore it that Deon felt it made Cavert look a little silly.

He wasn't good at expressing himself, so he used little hints like this to show that at the very least, all negative feelings were truly gone and that he may even hold Cavert in positive regard.

What the Demon King did with that information was up to him. Deon just kept walking beside the demon and wandered around the garden together.

After some time, they wandered out of the deep sections again. As they did so, Deon spotted a familiar cluster of flowers.

He sped up, slightly overtaking Cavert, and walked up to it. When Cavert caught up, Deon commented, “Remember this?”

The Demon King nodded, “It's where the flower on your necklace is from.”

“That's right.” He nodded with a smile, “This is where they grew.”

As he happily and quietly studied the flowers, he was aware of Cavert observing him silently rather than looking at the flowers.

“Deon.” Cavert smiled softly at him with a hint of hesitation.

Deon looked up at him, giving him his attention and encouraging him to talk.

The Demon King began to speak, “I've been... thinking a lot about our relationship and there's something I want to talk to you about.”

“What is it?”

“I... really like you.” The Demon King answered, there was a hint of nervousness between his brows, and he quickly kept speaking, as if afraid Deon would say something before he finished, “So I'd like to officially ask: Will you go out with me?”

“...Yes.” Deon's face broke into a smile, he'd been wondering when he was finally going to ask, “I'd love to.”

Chapter Text

Deon put the bow back in its place and left the training hall, done with training for the day. As if on cue, Cavert showed up beside him the moment he stepped through the door.

The taller demon hugged him and rested his head on Deon's, “Done for today?”

Deon nodded, “Yeah, I did enough for one day.”

If there was one thing he found annoying about the Demon King it was his height. He was so damn tall!

It wasn't like Deon was short either, he was just shorter than all these demons.

He let Cavert hug him a little longer before patting his arm, “Come on, I have to take a bath.”

“The bath can wait.” The Demon King protested.

“Well, what important thing happened?” Deon questioned, knowing there was going to be nothing of note that happened.

Cavert hugged him a little tighter, “I need to hug you a bit longer.”

Deon laughed softly, “Of course you do.” He shook his head and smiled, “Come on, get off.”

He reluctantly did. The Demon King wasn't saying anything but judging by his face he was clearly unhappy.

Deon affectionately patted his cheek, “You can hug me again later.”

Cavert lightly pulled on his cheek in return, “I know, I just didn't want to let go.”

“I need to go places, you can't hug me for forever.”

“I can try.” Cavert refuted.

“Well, you can keep trying later.” He smiled at the Demon King, “I'll be back to report the Corps' monthly activity later.”

“...Alright.” Cavert gently pecked his cheek, but he was sulking, “I'll see you later.”

Deon pretended not to see him pout about it. He wouldn't have thought being in a relationship would make the Demon King this sticky.

When he entered the Demon King's office an hour later, the demon immediately pulled him onto the sofa and across his lap.

Deon sighed good naturedly, “You know, you would scare an ordinary person away with that clinginess.”

“You're not an ordinary person.” Cavert brushed Deon's hair out of his face and behind his ear.

“Yes, yes.” Deon returned the peck from earlier, “Now, let's get down to business.”

Cavert grumbled, but let Deon give his report. When Deon finished, Cavert hugged him against him and sulked again.

Considering they had just talked about the Corps, Deon knew what his issue was, “You're not still mad about their lack of punishment, right?”

Cavert had left their punishment to Deon. If it had been up to the Demon King, they would either be dead or in a very, very sorry state, the human was aware of this.

But Deon didn't see any need to punish them for something that wasn't their fault. In fact, he did technically punish them, if only because both Ed and the regular Corps members looked like not being punished was the worse outcome. So he made them do some manual labor, like helping the servants in the castle, for two weeks.

Cavert would have probably preferred something more violent.

“I can tack on another week of helping the servants.” He offered. One should never underestimate how exhausting those tasks could be.

Cavert sighed, “...Nevermind.” He held Deon a little tighter, “I'm just unhappy they nearly got you killed.”

“They didn't nearly get me killed.” Deon leaned against him, “They're a corps compromised of soldiers, not bodyguards.”

“And yet those same soldiers got away completely unscathed while you suffered. You're their Commander, you should never be the first to fall.”

“Stop blaming them already.”

Cavert buried his nose in Deon's hair, “I don't want to.”

Deon let out a long sigh. There was no winning this. “At least keep the sulking down while I'm reporting.”

“I waited until you finished the report.” Cavert protested.

Deon shot him a look, “I have more stuff to report.”

“You said you were here to report the Corps' monthly activity. You already reported that.” He rubbed their cheeks together, “So now you have free time.”

The human pressed his lips together, “I just said-”

“I know, I know.” The Demon King interrupted him and held his chin, tilting it upwards, “I just want to spend some time with my beloved without any official business. You can deliver the rest of the reports later.”

He gave up, “...Okay.”

Cavert smiled and kissed him on the lips. Deon stilled for a moment in surprise, then leaned into the kiss, digging his fingers into the fabric of the Demon King's cloak to stay upright.

It didn't take long for tongues to get involved. When they finally parted, Deon heard the door click open.

Deceiver was looking at them with the most disgusted face Deon had ever seen on him, “Ew.”

Deon blushed brightly and lightly pushed Cavert's face away, “Oh, you're back!”

“Yeah.” His child commented, still pulling a face, “Why are you making out in the office?”

“It's your father's fault.” Deon resolutely threw Cavert under the bus.

The Demon King shot him a betrayed look, “You kissed me back.”

“Of course I did. But you still kissed me first, so you started it.”

“It takes two people to properly perform a kiss-”

“Please stop.” Deceiver pleaded, “What makes you think I want to hear that?”

Deon scratched his cheek, then got up from Cavert's hug and hugged Deceiver, pecking him on the cheek, “Sorry, Didi.”

“Ewwww.” The god complained, “I don't even look like a child right now.”

Deon laughed, “You're my kid, so you'll always be a child to me.”

Cavert joined his laughter and came up to hug their son as well, kissing his other cheek.

Deceiver frowned, “If you're doing this to me, you have to do it to the others, too!”

“Okay.” Deon agreed without even thinking about it, “You're all my kids, so there's no reason not to do that.”

Despite his agreement, Deceiver looked like he'd sucked on a lemon, “Then get off me already, get back to smooching! I'm leaving!”

Cavert chuckled, “Okay, okay, we'll stop teasing you.” He ruffled the deities hair, “Why did you come here? Wanted to hang out with your dad?” He guessed.

“I'm not here to hang out.” He grumbled, but actually allowed Cavert to ruffle his hair, “I wanted to know when dad plans to go back to the human world.”

Cavert's face immediately fell. Deon sighed, “Do you want your father to get right back to sulking all day?”

“Let him sulk. I asked a serious question.”

“I thought you'd forgiven me now that we're together.” The Demon King complained and hugged his son a little more.

Deceiver wiggled free and hugged Deon instead, “That doesn't mean I'll care about your moping around.” As Deon begun to fix the hair Cavert had messed up, Deceiver asked again, “So when do you plan to go back?”

“I don't know yet.” Deon replied honestly, “Maybe next month?”

Deceiver perked up, “Next month?”

Deon nodded, “Probably. It's already been 5 months since I came to the demon realm, after all.”

“Then go back as soon as possible.”

“Does this have anything to do with what you and Destruction have been doing?”

His child grinned, “Maybe.” Then he looked at the unhappy Demon King, “Think about it like this, the earlier he leaves, the sooner he can come back.”

Cavert huffed, “You just want to have your dad all to yourself, right?”

Although he sounded hurt, Deon could tell he was being playful with the god. Despite still being unhappy, it seemed he wasn't sulking as much as he was earlier.

“Not at all.” Deceiver denied and hugged Deon a little tighter, “There's just something we want to take care of as soon as possible.”

“And you have to have Deon to do that?”

“Not really.” Deceiver clarified, “But we believe dad has a right to be there.”

“Why don't I just come along?” Cavert offered.

Deceiver pulled a face, “Absolutely not. We won't be able to start it if you're there!”

“I won't disturb you.” The Demon King insisted.

“No!”

“How about I come by later, when you've started whatever you're doing.”

Deceiver was silent for a moment, “...No.”

“Why not? If I come late, I won't be able to prevent it from starting.”

“Just no!” Deceiver glared at Cavert, then whipped his head towards Deon and whined, “Dad, father is bullying me!”

Deon laughed and patted his head, “Just take it as payback for bullying him before.”

“That's unfair!” Deceiver protested, “We bullied him because he's an idiot. I'm not an idiot!”

Cavert's mouth was open in shock, “I'm not an idiot.”

The god shot him a look, “Yes, you are.”

“I am not!”

“Are.”

“No.”

Deon interjected, “Okay! You're both idiots, how about that?” They looked at him betrayed, he waved them off, “Either both or neither of you are, decide.”

“Our son isn't an idiot!” Cavert decided.

“That's right.” Deceiver agreed, then tsk-ed, “Even if it means agreeing he isn't one.”

“Why are you bullying me so much?” Cavert came over and hugged Deceiver again, much to the latter's dismay as he clung to Deon's clothes. As such, the Demon King just ended up hugging them both.

“I'm not bullying you.” He disagreed, “I'm annoying you as any child would their parent.”

“I don't see you annoying Deon like that.”

“I've been annoying him for the past eight years. Plus his time as Raven.” Deceiver snickered, “It's your turn now.”

A month later, Deon was putting the last few things in order before departing. Cavert definitely wasn't unhappy about that.

He was just worried. If something happened in the Empire, how could he protect Deon? The Duke was right there.

It wasn't that he thought their kids couldn't protect him, he just wanted to be absolutely sure he was safe. But they even barred him from coming along.

He could disguise himself, so that wasn't the issue and the only one who would be able to recognize him anyway was Duke Illuster. Who would only be shooting himself in the foot if he pointed him out.

The Demon King would be quite happy to watch him squirm.

Alas, his kid wasn't on board and Deon was siding with him, so he had to stay behind. For now.

Chapter Text

Cavert was hugging Deon tightly, “Be careful on the way.” He kissed the human's cheek before loosening his embrace.

Deon smiled at him and nodded, “I will.” He picked up the bag containing his things and bid the Demon King farewell, “You also take care while I'm gone.”

“If something happens, contact me immediately.”

“I know.” Deon's smile grew fond, “I'll make sure to do so.”

From there, it didn't take long for Deon to arrive in the Empire. The border wasn't very far after all.

By the time he arrived it was already morning and Deceiver, who had gone ahead as he was never supposed to have been out, was waiting for him while once again looking like a teenager. A perfect show of someone who hadn't seen their parent in over 5 months.

“I'm back.” He smiled as he ruffled his child's hair, Deceiver lightly bowing his head to give him better access.

“Welcome back!” The child cheered and hugged him, “I really, really missed you.”

It hadn't even been that long and while he was certainly laying it on thick, Deon knew it was to fool anyone that may or may not be poking around, so he left it be.

“Have you been eating well while I was gone?”

“Of course!” Deceiver pulled him aside, “Come on, I've left some snacks for you.”

There were snacks left over, specifically those Deon liked less. He briefly wondered if this was revenge for what happened in Cavert's office.

“I can eat them if you don't want them.” Someone suddenly entered the room. It was Destruction.

“No way!” Deceiver exclaimed, “Those are for dad!”

“Oh please.” Destruction waved him off, “You deliberately left ones he doesn't like.”

“That doesn't mean you can eat them.” The god snapped, “And how do you know that anyway?”

“Can't you get along? You used to when Destruction first came here.” Deon interjected when something on the table caught his attention. He picked it up.

It was an invitation.

Deon turned it around in his hand and looked it over. The only notable thing on it was the seal depicting the symbol of the Empire.

So it came from the palace. He opened the envelope and read its content.

Deceiver came up beside him, barely able to conceal his excitement, “What does it say?” That was all Deon needed to know these kids had something to do with this.

Truthfully, the fact that this was here, clearly freshly delivered, also served as evidence. Who but them would know when he would return?

What were Deceiver and Destruction doing that it needed a banquet? Because this was an invitation to one.

He glanced at the two children separately, both quickly avoiding his gaze. He sighed, “What did you do?”

“It's a surprise!” Deceiver hastily answered, “You'll have to wait and see, it's a good thing!”

Just because it was good didn't mean it wouldn't be 'annoying'.

Well, their plan was clearly pretty far along if they even managed to secure invites to the palace. Destruction didn't threaten the Emperor, right?

Although he had only just returned and no one here knew that Destruction was his child, he wouldn't be called to explain himself, right? He wouldn't have to explain why he couldn't stop an actual demigod from intimidating the Emperor, right?

That would be insane.

The Emperor had more sense than this, which was good for Deon because he wanted to see that man as little as possible.

He had more important things to deal with during his time here. Aside from the report he would have to give on his stay in the Demon Realm, he didn't want interact with him. That was a surefire way to get more work.

If he got saddled with missions, he couldn't meet his parents. And Deon wanted to do that.

The thought of going there and talking to them made him almost unable to breathe from the nervousness but it was something he had to do. He wanted to see them.

He had to see them.

His parents whom he hadn't seen in so long. His parents who were alive. His parents.

Deon's heart desperately longed for them. That's why, the moment he decided to return to the Empire, he had steeled his nerves so he could meet them properly and apologize.

He would report to the Emperor today and meet with them in a few days. He wondered which day would be best as he got out pen and paper to set up a meeting, Deceiver and Destruction once again arguing in the background.

He was here again, but this time there was neither dread nor fear, just a feeling of hope nestled deep within his chest.

The head butler led him inside. All the while they walked, Deon could feel the tension in his body build up the closer they got to lounge and towards his family.

When the doors to the lounge were opened, they politely greeted each other and Deon nervously took a seat when directed to. Once the butler left and closed the door, a terse silence enveloped the room.

His parents sat opposite him and his brother gingerly to his right.

Deon swallowed, focusing his gaze to the ground, “I'm... sorry.” In the end, in front of his parents... he didn't know how to act.

His mother's already tense face fell, “Oh, Deon...”

She stood up and sat down to his left, putting her arms around him loosely. They were shaking lightly for a moment before she tightened them around him and hugged him, burying his face into her neck.

Deon now knew it wasn't disgust or revulsion to him, but fear of hurting him, so he neither flinched nor drew back, simply letting her hold him as tears welled up in his eyes. In response, she hugged him a little tighter.

The weight to his right lessened, then returned as another pair of arms held him. Deon glanced up, in front of him, where Cruel was softly smiling at him as their parents hugged Deon.

He sobbed in earnest, hugging his parents back as they soothed him.

After a while, Deon was leaning on his father instead as the man still hugged him. His mother had left the hug and was now slowly stroking his hair instead.

“None of this is your fault.” Deon's father quietly told him, “We're the ones that are sorry. We should have never made you feel like we didn't love you.”

“It's okay.” Deon whispered, tear tracks still visible on his face as he laid against him, “I understand why you did all that now. You just wanted to protect me.”

His mother stopped stroking his head and wiped the wet patches on his cheeks, “That doesn't excuse it. We're your parents, we should have noticed we were hurting you. We were the adults, Deon, all of this is on us.” She smiled at him, “If we had done a good job, no matter what happened later, would you have ever ended up hating us? And if, you would have questioned it longer, right?”

Deon did not dare confirm.

“We're the ones that should be sorry.” His father spoke, “I'm sorry Deon.”

“No...” There's no need to be sorry.

His mother gently interrupted him, “I'm sorry, too. We failed you. Will you let us make it up to you?”

“I- you don't know, I-” killed you. The words were stuck in his throat.

His mother cupped his cheek and smiled at him, “Deon, we could never hate you for that.”

He looked at them in astonishment, “What-”

His father sighed with a smile, “We don't know much, but Cruel told us what he knew. About how you lived this life before.” He hugged him a little tighter and pushed some hair out of his face, “You didn't say it outright, but you killed us, right? I'm certain the 'us' of that life were just happy you were even alive. As long as you're alive, no price is too large to bear.”

“That makes it worse!” Deon pushed himself out of his father's arms as he echoed the words he had told Cruel back then.

“Deon.” Cruel spoke up and took his hands, holding them, “Let's stop talking about it, okay? We all made mistakes in the past, so let's look away and start over. Would that be okay with you?”

Looking into his brother's firm eyes, Deon found himself nodding. He wanted to start over and get along with his family.

Cruel smiled and ruffled his hair, “Good.”

After a couple of hours, the husband and wife duo kicked out their eldest son so they could spend some time alone with their youngest.

The timing was pretty good, too, as a palace servant arrived to call Cruel to the palace. Deon, as well as his parents, weren't particularly happy about that, but there wasn't much they could do as it was just a simple summons.

Deon also had a fairly good idea what this was about, so he worried a little less.

Instead he ended up talking quite a bit with his parents about his kid...s.

His mother, seemingly happy about the prospect of more grandchildren, was quite happy, “So there's four more you adopted?”

“Not.. exactly.” None of them were adopted in the first place, but how would he even begin to explain that?

“Try not to overwork yourself.” His father reminded, “If you need help, tell us.” He blinked and coughed, “We... won't be messing up this time.”

Deon found himself chuckling lightly, “I know, don't worry.”

“And? What are their names?” His mother swarmed.

“...That's...” He couldn't exactly tell them without explaining things he didn't want to explain yet. Not to mention that Destruction's name would be a dead give-away.

The demigod hadn't exactly been subtle when he destroyed part of the royal palace, so his parents would definitely know. Also, what kind of image would that be, telling them he had 'adopted' a demigod they must think of as incomparably ancient compared to Deon?

“Don't pressure him, dear.” His father calmly spoke to her, then turned to Deon, “Just tell us before you let us meet them, okay?”

“...Yeah.” He agreed.

The kids, the girls especially, would probably love meeting their grandparents. Observer especially had looked particularly curious when they came up in conversation.

He would definitely introduce all of them once things in the Empire were settled. Although he was well aware there was nothing the Duke could do to them, he did not want them anywhere near the man's line of sight.

“Then,” his mother cheerfully kept talking, “do you already have a girl you fancy? I'm not trying to interfere, mom is just curious.”

His father nodded, “You're already an adult. If there's anyone you like, don't hesitate to tell us. And don't worry about status or whatever, as long as the one you choose likes you, treats you well and is a good person, nothing else matters.”

“That's right!” The countess exclaimed happily, “Don't worry about what others might say. We'll take care of that.”

Their expectant gazes were killing him.

“If you don't have anyone in mind or don't want to tell us, you just need to say it.” She smiled at him, “We won't pressure you.”

“It's okay.” He replied slowly. It wasn't that he didn't want to tell them, it's just that this was an incredibly complicated thing. But he didn't want them to feel completely left out, so there was at least one thing he could admit to, embarrassing as it was. “And, uhm... I'm... already seeing someone...”

Chapter Text

“I'm glad you could make it.” The Emperor voiced as Cruel bowed in greeting.

Cruel didn't know or care what the Emperor wanted from him. He just wanted to get back home so he could spend time with Deon.

“As I'm sure you know,” The Emperor continued, “there are currently some conflicts going on between us and the demons.”

Cruel nodded, instantly wary of the man's intention. Was he going to ask him to go there?

Seeing his response, the Ruler smiled, “The frontline army there is still missing a commander to lead them. What do you say? I believe you would do well there.”

So he wanted Cruel to fight, “You Majesty, with all due respect, I believe I'm not the right person for this.”

The Emperor seemed surprised, “How so?”

“I have never worked with the military before.” He explained calmly, “Additionally, I have no experience leading even a small unit, nevermind an entire army. Whether it is my own inexperience or the mistrust of the troops, both would pose significant challenges to success.”

Nothing he said was false, but his refusal had actually nothing to do with either. He just didn't want to leave. He also didn't want to become a problem between the demons and Deon, so he would have to sabotage the Empire's army if he went.

The demons treated him far better than anyone here and Cruel wouldn't mess anything up for him.

“You're a Hero Candidate.” The Emperor spoke, “Of all the Candidates, you're both the most successful and the most competent one. Why wouldn't they listen to you?”

“On the contrary, it's because I'm only a 'Hero Candidate' that I will be under more scrutiny.” Cruel closed his eyes and respectfully bowed his head, “I did not participate in the eight-year war and would be an unknown strength to the soldiers. I'm not someone they can trust to lead them to victory.”

“Mh...” The Ruler tapped his chin, “Your concerns are valid. But nonetheless, you are the right person for this.” He waved his hand, “I'll let you think about it. Come to me with your answer at the end of the week, once the banquet is over.”

The banquet this week... It was to celebrate Deon's successful 'monster hunt'. It was fishy, no matter how one looked at it and that wasn't even mentioning that it was Duke Illuster that proposed the occasion.

Anything to do with that man was bad news, more so when it concerned Deon. If his nephew hadn't asked them not to do anything about it, the Hardt family would have done their best to voice their dissatisfaction long ago.

He responded as calmly as he could, trying not to show his unhappiness, “I will do as you command.”

The Emperor nodded, “That's good.” He waved him away, “Then, unless there is anything else from your side, you're dismissed.”

Cruel left.

There was nothing more to talk about. Not with the Emperor anyway. The ones he needed to talk to were his parents and Deon.

By the time he arrived home, Deon was unfortunately already gone. Tch, he'd hoped to spend some more time with his younger brother. It's all the Emperor's fault that he couldn't.

“Father, mother.” He greeted his parents.

“You're back.” His father noted, “What did the Emperor want?”

Cruel took a deep breath, “He wanted to send me to the frontline.”

The Emperor truly liked using his family for his own ends. First was Deon and now he wasn't even shying away from using Cruel.

His mother gasped as his father sighed, “Can't he leave us alone...”

“Father,” Cruel called out, “I have told His Majesty that I would not be suitable for the task, so he has given me time to think it over.”

The Count shook his head, “That's no better than saying you have no choice. 'Think it over', he'll find a reason to make you go either way.”

“I also think so.” He hung his head.

His father patted his shoulder, “We'll find a way. How much time do you have?”

“Until the end of this week's banquet.”

“That banquet...!” The Count grimaced, then schooled his expression, “It's fine. Leave it to us and just concentrate on more important things. We need to counter whatever the Duke has planned for Deon this time.”

“I'll do as you say.” That's right, nothing was more important than keeping Deon safe from the Duke, “And if I have no choice but to go, I'll find a way to get over it as soon and peacefully as possible.”

He knew the Empire planned to reclaim the land that had been taken in their scuffle, as well as march forward into the demon realm by the way. As the latter was not directly stated, there was no need to do it.

Maybe he could even send a message to the Demon King via Deon so the demons could play along and would not suffer any important losses of manpower. He knew his brother had something to contact the demons with.

Of course, there was also the possibility that the Empire would be the one losing out, but Cruel did not want to risk bad relations with people that cared for his brother on the off-chance it didn't.

His father accepted his declaration, “I'll be counting on you.”

His mother sighed and hugged Cruel, “Why is it always our children that have to suffer? I don't like this.”

Deon Hardt had met with the Hardt family and stayed for hours, even after Cruel Hardt had left for an audience with the Emperor.

“Did they reconcile...?” The Duke wondered such as he sipped at his glass of wine.

It wouldn't be great if they did, but in the end it was all futile. Deon Hardt wouldn't live past the end of the week and he would finally be rid of the threat to the Empire.

He was too much of a risk, standing on neither side of the fence.

So it was fine for them to get along. The Hardt family alone wouldn't be able to save him at all, they were just a mere County.

The Demon King also cared about him too much. To think he took back the magic he'd given, just because that man got a little hurt. It wasn't like he died, what was he overreacting for?

He would have loved it, had Deon Hardt died. He could have accepted the loss of that magic better. But he was alive, alive and well!

That hateful man just refused to die! What did it take for him to finally croak?!

He calmed himself down before he would start smashing things. It was no matter. No matter what happened or what the young Hardt had survived until now, he could not survive this.

The gods were of a different realm than ordinary mortals like them. The two of them would work together to expose both Deon Hardt and his 'son' in front of the entire nobility.

Nothing the Emperor could say or do could or would save them. He could claim Deon was a spy ordered by him, but that wouldn't explain the existence of the demon child by his side. That child had been there since the eight-year war.

Even if he found an excuse, if he- the Duke- said Deon Hardt was evil while backed by someone as powerful as the demigod of Destruction, who would say otherwise. That was a god, a deity! They knew better than them and were privy to the world's secrets.

Not to mention that those fools were still afraid of the demigod. Hadn't he behaved perfectly well after that initial fiasco? Destruction was probably pissed at something the royal family did, probably the fact that they let Deon and that demon run around in the Empire without fear.

But that fear was also perfectly to their advantage.

If Destruction said Deon was a traitor and a threat, they would all be up in arms to bring down justice on the man. Nothing could save him, not even the Demon King.

And the deity had voiced time and time again how much he wanted to kill Deon himself, torture him to death.

Duke Illuster couldn't be more happy to let him.

Once Deon Hardt was gone, nothing would stop him from dismantling the royal family's authority and making the Empire his. Everything would soon be his.

Something was wrong. Eduardo could not shake that feeling.

It had begun even before Deon Hardt returned from the demon realm, to be specific, it begun when the Duke proposed to hold a banquet for when the young man returned.

It had always struck him as odd. The Duke and Deon had no intersection, why was he so fixated on the youngest member of the Hardt family?

If it was just his appointment as the third Hero or anything relating to it, he could still somehow understand but Duke Illuster had become involved far earlier than that when he sent Deon into the eight-year war.

The Emperor hated the uncertainty he felt when he tried to understand the noble's actions. The Duke wasn't an idiot, far from it, so what did he gain from messing with the Hardt family?

No matter how many investigations he ordered, nothing could be found. There was no enmity between them, not even an intentional or unintentional slight.

He didn't know what kind of storm that banquet would bring, but one was already forming right on their doorstep.

The thing he was most worried about... was that demigod. He was undoubtedly the source of the coming storm. His personal feelings on the issue aside, why did the Duke insist on inviting him when the deity had showed no interest in any of the banquets prior?

He had entertained the thought of them working together, despite how ridiculous a thought it was.

The demigod of Destruction was close to Deon Hardt. So much so that even he, himself, was wary to do anything big concerning the third Hero.

The one time the demigod deigned to meet with him- after Deon had been sent off to the Demon Realm- it had become incredibly clear incredibly fast that he had only agreed to meet so he could threaten him.

He knew there was some significance to it, because this hadn't happened immediately after Deon set off. In fact, the demigod had initially rejected offers to meet even then.

But then he suddenly agreed.

He didn't know what happened, but something had and it was connected to the young Hardt.

He obviously didn't know what it was but he could guess. Something occurred in the demon realm that caused a demigod to threaten them on behalf of a mortal human.

That meant nothing bad could happen to Deon. It also meant a falling out had likely occurred in the demon realm. One not so bad that Deon found it significant, but enough that Destruction did.

It was likely Deon would choose the Empire as he should and the demigod was warning them not to make any mistakes that could cause his judgment to waver.

The Emperor was looking forward to that day.

Chapter Text

It was noisy.

Perhaps someone else would describe the atmosphere as lively, but Deon only found it annoying. Not to mention that he was basically the center of attention, with Destruction standing right next to him and refusing to leave.

He still didn't know what they were planning but did it really require the demigod to cling to him like particularly sticky glue? Like, the wet kind that was coming off but you couldn't really get rid of and was still clinging to you by sheer luck.

Except Destruction wasn't continually next to him by sheer luck.

He side-eyed the demigod with suspicion as he just smiled back at Deon. The smile was so innocent and pure he felt shivers down his spine and quickly looked away, pretending to straighten out Deceiver's crooked collar. Said deity just looked at him incredibly amused.

Deon used fixing Didi's outfit to his advantage, leaning in further to whisper, “Don't act like that wouldn't surprise you at the very least. Him smiling like that that is weird as can be.”

He whispered back, “Anything he does could set me off.” He patted Deon's hand away and fixed the rest of his collar himself, “He's just messing around because he can, don't mind him.”

No, the guy who casually cusses people out at the best of times wouldn't just smile like that for the hell of it. Not without a reason, and not so nicely. Deon really, really wanted to know what they were up to.

The unease caused by their behavior made him a little twitchy.

A hand gently landed on his shoulder, “Deon.” He looked behind his shoulder and saw his mother smiling at them, his father beside her, “Don't worry, we're here.”

He smiled back, “Yeah.”

His father nodded at him without changing his expression much, “No matter what happens, we definitely won't be separated again.”

Deceiver innocently looked up at him, “Grandpa promises?”

“...Yes.” Deon's father patted the child's head, “Grandpa promises.”

“Good.” The god grinned happily.

As his parents made themselves busy cooing over Deceiver, Destruction whispered from beside him, “It's starting.”

He immediately became alert.

It was also around this time that the surrounding nobles quietened down as Duke Illuster made himself the center of attention.

Perhaps there were some gestures in noble circles he was unaware of, but shortly after the Duke positioned himself in the center of the large hall, Deon and his family were left alone as everyone else surrounded them.

It wasn't a tight circle or anything and wouldn't prevent anyone from escaping if they wanted to. Most of all, the majority of those present looked confused.

“I pushed them away with my power.” Deceiver whispered, “Less hindrances if something happens.”

No, wasn't that an even bigger problem? What if they realized they weren't pushed away by each other but by a foreign power? But Deceiver didn't look worried at all, so he tried to put his mind to rest and pretend the encirclement was intentional.

He glanced at Destruction, who was still next to them, but had moved a few steps away before looking back at the Duke.

Not wanting to be accused of being impolite when the man clearly wanted something, Deon acknowledged the man with a curt incline of his head, “Your Excellency Duke Illuster.”

“I am delighted that you can identify me despite us never meeting before.” The smile on his face did give the facade of someone who was truly happy about this, “After all, I prepared this banquet especially for you.”

Wow, that sounded almost creepy.

Deon knew that the Duke was the one who proposed this occasion. Who didn't? He made such a big deal out of it, after all.

It didn't even surprise him that all of the nobles were here. They were either here because they were part of Duke Illuster's noble faction or because they wanted to see what said faction was up to now.

“I'm honored that Your Excellency put this occasion together for me, but...” He sent a sharp smile the Duke's way, “I'm surprised the eminent Duke put in so much effort for a simple successful monster hunt.”

What was he up to?

The Duke mirrored his smile, “The Honorary Count is very sharp.” He spread his arms, carefully sweeping his eyes around the room before settling them back on Deon, “I did, indeed, arrange this banquet for another purpose. But it is nonetheless a celebration that could not happen without you.”

As the Duke finished up his words, Deon glanced up towards the Emperor who had said nothing so far. There was suspicion in the Emperor's eyes, along with confusion. He probably had nothing to do with this.

He respectfully responded to the Duke's words as he focused his attention back on him, “Then, may I ask what you have brought us together for?”

Duke Illuster nodded, “That would truly be for the best, wouldn't it?” Deon saw Illuster glance at Destruction before continuing to talk confidently, “Honorary Count, I'll give you a chance to make it easier on yourself.” He paused, the smirked, “Who is that 'child' next to you?”

Deon deadpanned, “My child?”

Okay, what the hell kinda nonsense was this about? Even if he figured out that Deceiver wasn't human, how exactly would he hold being a god against him?

The Duke clicked his tongue, “Honorary Count, you know what I mean.”

“No, I don't?” He feigned genuine confusion.

“If you're honest, we can say you knew nothing about this and let you off where it concerns your that creature.”

'We can say'. Wasn't this the same is outright saying you would falsify the truth? And 'where it concerns' just shows that the Duke was intending to hit him with something else as well.

Far more importantly, “Calling a child a 'creature' is a bit much, no?” Deon bit back as he positioned himself before Deceiver.

“Please, he's not human and you know that full well.” There was a surrounding gasp as the nobles took in the Duke's words.

Deon chuckled darkly, “Then what, pray tell, is he supposed to be?”

“It is almost admirable how you keep pretending not to know.” The Duke shook his head with a smile, “You know full well he is a demon.”

“...” It took him a moment to process that, “...Demons can't have children, Your Excellency.” Deon calmly shot back, “They don't even have childhoods as they are born as they are, fully grown.”

The Duke grinned triumphantly, “And how do you know that?”

“Common sense...?” He wasn't actually sure whether it was common sense or not. What he did know for sure was that he didn't initially know this, but others? He genuinely had no idea.

Before the Duke could refute Deon again, Deon's father glared at the Duke, “Words are all well and good, but accusing people without proof is not.”

“Who said I don't have proof?” Illuster questioned, “More importantly, the 'child' isn't the only problem here. Count Hardt, you can't tell me you didn't know there was something wrong with your second son. Especially after his return from the demon realm.”

“What are you on about now?” His father questioned, thoroughly fed up, “If you're referring to the Demon King's curse, then everyone knows about that.”

“Please, Count Hardt, don't be so naive.” The Duke sighed, “Obviously, I'm not talking about that.”

“Then what are you talking about?” The Count responded angrily, “You come here and accuse my son of things without even mentioning what they are or giving people time to prepare proof against it. Not to mention that you have yet to show your so-called 'proof' that my grandson isn't human. You just changed the topic.”

“I did not 'change the topic', dear Count. Both points are connected and if you just use your head a bit, I'm sure you can figure it out, too.”

“There's nothing to figure out.”

Duke Illuster theatrically sighed, “Being stubborn is not a good thing, but I understand that he is your son and you want to see only the best in him.”

“Stop diverting attention.” Count Hardt demanded, “Just tell us whatever pretty little tale you've thought up.”

“I agree.” A regal voice sounded through the hall and Deon looked up. It was the Emperor who had spoken, cold eyes looking down at the Duke, “I would also like to know what you have to say... about someone who has sacrificed so much for the Empire.”

Deon barely missed the scathing glare in the Duke's eyes before it softened into something else. He looked rather smug now.

“Your Majesty,” the Duke began, “whether the Honorary Count has truly sacrificed anything for the Empire, who knows?”

The Emperor did not let up, “I believe it would be best to start your explanation then, Duke.”

“Of course.” The Duke took a respectful bow, then turned back towards Deon and his parents. After another quick glance at Destruction, he opened his mouth and once again began to speak, “I'm sure everyone here knows about Deon Hardt being sent to the demon realm as the Hero's companion, correct?”

As everyone around them began to nod, Deon stopped himself from tensing. He had already figured out by now that Duke Illuster was going to reveal Deon's position 'between' the two realms, or to be more accurate, claim that Deon was working solely for the demon realm.

It wasn't that that was wrong per se, but per the Duke's own intel, it should be. In other words, he was telling what he thought to be lies.

“Deon Hardt was able to return with the Hero's body, but how?” He asked into the masses, “How was he able to escape the Demon Realm while carrying another person's body? How did he end up cursed that he was still able to escape between that and actually running away? Shouldn't it have been much harder for him to run if he was close enough to the Demon King to have been cursed? Why did Deon Hardt, who does not even have a Hero's Fragment, survive?”

As the murmurs began to rise all around them, the Duke was smirking. Deon gritted his teeth, but not by much. With how often the Duke was glancing at Destruction it was clear the demigod was involved.

To onlookers it must seem like he had a backer, but to Deon it just made it all the more relieving. Because Destruction would never be on the Duke's side.

“I believe the answer to be quite simple.” Illuster proclaimed, “There was no need for them to kill him, because he had long been on the demons' side!”

As shock spread through the hall and everyone fearfully took steps back, Deon remained calm. He still had several backers present himself and that wasn't even mentioning that no one here could do anything to him.

The first of his 'backer's' reacted quite fast, too. The Emperor was now full on glaring at the Duke, “If the Duke has proof of this, it would be much appreciated. If not, I will take this as you willfully slandering the third Hero.”

“Proof will naturally be provided once I've fully finished my piece.”

“So that numerous thoughts can be born and no longer be dispelled?” The Emperor rebutted.

It was at this point that Destruction suddenly made his presence known, forcing everyone else into silence, “I would like to know what the Duke has to say. I don't give a shit about whatever you're all doing, but saying that someone is working with demons is quite the hefty accusation. Who cares about when the proof comes? If he can't produce it after everything, he'll just have to eat his own words.”

The demigod smirked at the Emperor, who frowned back.

Perhaps because he was very amused right now, Destruction's grin widened, “Why not let him talk? Truth is truth and lies are lies, can he still lie right in front of me? What do you say, little Emperor?”

The Emperor gnashed his teeth, but it was barely noticeable, “Very well.”

Destruction turned to Duke Illuster, “Continue then, I'm listening to whatever tales you've got to tell.”

Duke Illuster bowed towards the demigod, “Thank you, Your Eminence.” He turned back towards the hall, “I'm sure nobody is still having trouble understanding how Deon Hardt came to be on the demon's side. No, maybe you still don't understand the reasons in that 'how' but the rest should be fairly clear.”

Several people nodded.

“Does everyone still remember that Deon Hardt found that child in his second year participating in the eight-year war? Even if he once stood with humanity, that demon had enough time to poison and alter his mind, making him a true minion of the Demon King.”

He sure liked to talk. Where did he even get theories like that from? If you had asked Deon for possible connections that would bind him to the demons and how, he would have come up with far simpler explanations.

Or maybe this was just a good way for the Duke to claim that Deon couldn't be saved and needed to be executed to save not only the Empire but also whatever remained of the 'true' Deon.

He almost applauded the Duke's great mind. Almost.

“You could say that's why he is not who we thought he was, but an ally to the Demon King.” Another glance was thrown at the present demigod. The Duke seemed to hesitate for a second, but seeing Destruction nod haughtily, he continued, “You might now think he is really pitiful, having his own mind taken from him, but I'm telling you, it's worse than that!”

Deon knew nobles tended to be good at acting and speaking, but damn.

“I knew it would come to this, having caught wind of the demons plans early. Deon looked inhuman enough for them to be comfortable around and was someone easy for them to use.” He gestured at Deon's... well, everything, “He was not only born with an inhuman appearance but also an inhuman mind and they knew he would betray humanity the moment they asked him to. And he did! Look, didn't he immediately jump at the chance of taking care of a strange child in the barraks? Didn't he refuse to send him away, even after the strange supply troubles had been resolved?”

He sure had done his research. Deon was glad nobody was interrupting him, this was getting amusing.

He was already fully treating this as a show.

“I knew I could not let them come into contact, so I'd hoped Deon Hardt would die before they could and for two years, I thought they'd given up because the chance of Deon dying and their effort being wasted was too high.” The Duke gritted his teeth, “But who would have thought they would still find a chance.”

What a grand way to justify his actions.

“The only way to avoid catastrophe was for Deon Hardt to die, I knew that. That's why, for humanity's sake, I had him sent to war in the first place.” He clenched his fist and held it over his heart with a pained grimace. Man, these mandatory acting classes were really paying off, huh? “Why should the righteous die for the wicked? Why should someone as upstanding as the Hardt family's eldest son risk his life when such a monster could be eradicated easily this way?”

Cruel, who had been silently standing beside them since who knows when, was being held back by their mother who was perhaps the only one to note how relaxed Deon had become the more the Duke talked.

“So I ensured that this wouldn't happen. The Count and Countess, too blinded by their parental love for that monster, wanted to save him but I prevented it. I ensured he would stay on the deadly battlefield and on the frontlines, assigning him harsher and harsher duties so he would collapse and perish, but with the demons help, he preserved.”

Oh wow. Was he really airing out his own crimes just like this? Deon was impressed. The Emperor also looked impressed, just differently.

“In that case, Duke.” Deon interrupted and spoke up for the first time in a while, an amused smile on his lips, “If, hypothetically speaking, your ridiculous claims were true... Wouldn't that make it all your fault?” He found himself chuckling lightly, “If you had never sent me to the battlefield, per your own words, how would I have made contact with Deceiver and gained enough fame to be someone important to the Empire and as such, cause more harm to it?”

While many were now skeptical of Deon, they were also thoroughly horrified by what the Duke was admitting to. For now, he still hadn't 'revealed' what gave him the confidence that Deon was so terrible he had to be sent to war.

Probably because there was none. No matter what he was willing to say of his involvement in Deon's fate, there was no way he would admit to summoning the Demon King. Not unless he lost the last of his marbles.

But Deon was rather amused now, not to mention that the children had prepared this, so he should let them finish up the act how they wished to. So he spoke up again, “But never mind me, please keep talking, so I can later refute you.”

“Keep pretending while you can.” Duke Illuster responded with an amused huff, “The where has nothing to do with the how. They would have found a way to contact you anyway. I just did my best to make sure it would be futile.”

They could talk in circles like this, but since Deon said he would let him talk, he let him talk.

The Duke continued his spiel, “Now, let us return to more recent times. After the third 'Hero' returned with the Last Hero's body, he was repeatedly sent on missions by His Majesty. Many were said to have been to hunt monsters, like this last occasion, but he did not hunt monsters at all.”

Now that just wasn't true. Deon had hunted monsters. In the demon realm, that is.

“I'm sure everyone is aware of his 'curse'. Because of that 'curse' he was sent not to hunt monsters, but to the demon realm in hopes of resolving it.” The Duke took a deep breath, “But it is not a curse at all but a tracking spell! We've all been deceived on that front as well!”

Oh, Destruction had told him about the truth behind the curse. He didn't expect that.

“Every time he left, he returned to his true master with a most convenient excuse. By believing Deon, the Emperor, too, has been deceived!”

Oh? Deon glanced at the Emperor. He sure didn't look happy right now. Deon felt like could burst out laughing any second.

“We've all been taken for fools!” He exclaimed before looking at Destruction with a confident and happy smile, “And I shall now start to prove it.”

The Demigod of Destruction purposefully made a 'go on' motion with a small grin, assuring the Duke even further.

Duke Illuster paused for a moment, then smirked at Deceiver, “Humans have white sclera, but this demon 'child' is hiding black ones behind an illusion. His Eminence, the Demigod of Destruction, has offered to unveil the truth!”

There may have still been doubts about the Duke's words earlier, but now that he directly brought a deity into the equation, everyone was immediately assured of Deon and Deceiver's guilt without even having heard Destruction's answer yet.

After all, there was no way the Duke would willingly shoot himself in the foot like this.

But Deon was still calm. Because this whole situation was under his children's control from the start.

“That child truly isn't human.” Destruction revealed calmly. Too calmly. That should have been the first red flag for the Duke before he even said his next words, “But,” He grinned, swiping his hair back and subsequently showcasing his own black sclera, “Neither am I.”

The Duke stumbled a step back, shocked, as the atmosphere snapped backwards like a tidal wave taking aim, “What are you...?”

Destruction darkly chuckled as he let his hair fall back down, putting his hand on his hip instead, “To claim the color of his eyes makes him a demon, when I've never hidden my own.”

Duke Illuster seemed to struggle for words as he tried to get control of the situation, “We had an agreement! You said-!”

“Duke Illuster.” The demigod interrupted, “I must say I'm impressed. You have the gall to accuse a fully-fledged god of being a mortal creature like a demon?”

“I'm not accusing you of anything, Your Eminence.” Duke Illuster desperately defended himself, “I'm sure you're also aware that there's a demon with eyes like that!”

“That's true, there is one who does. However.” The demigod's grin seemed almost maniacal now, “How do you know a demon's sclera can be black?”

The following second was long and painful as the Duke instantly went white as a sheet. The surrounding spectators could barely finish processing the demigod's words when the Duke was suddenly in front of Deon, brandishing a knife he'd hidden in his sleeve.

He didn't get farther than that as Destruction grabbed him at the back of his collar and threw him backwards onto the ground, stomping on his chest to prevent him from standing back up.

As the nobles around them screamed and stumbled even further away from them in fright, Destruction leaned in close, whispering so only the Duke could hear, “Oh, and for the record. The Demon King isn't a demon, he's his own existence.”

Deon heard Deceiver snicker beside him and ruffled his hair, stopping the god who was now pouting instead.

Destruction looked at them and smirked. Then he straightened himself, grinning from ear to ear as he spoke loud enough for everyone to hear, “Also, the fully-fledged god I talked about wasn't myself, but my brother, whom you so graciously accused of being a demon.” The grin widened a little as he added one last bit, “After all, I'm a demigod, not a god. Note the distinction, you brainless idiot.”

At the same time as this happened, Deon's father pulled Deon close and put him behind himself, glaring at the Duke with all his might.

Deon, himself, was still calm. Something like that couldn't kill him anyway. More importantly, there was no way the Duke didn't have some sort of backup plan if he even went so far as to conceal a weapon on his person.

He was right- the Duke had many supporters in the noble faction that believe his every word, no matter what anyone else says.

Deon pushed his father forwards as he used the force of that to propel himself backwards, evading the first idiot with a knife.

As he dodged said idiot's next swing and waved Deceiver away from helping, he started to think. He didn't carry any weapons with him, so he couldn't exactly respond in kind.

He ducked down to avoid someone swinging their sword at his neck.

From the corner of his eyes he could see the nobles that weren't involved in this wanting to run out of the hall in droves, but the doors must have been closed shut at some point and no amount of pushing or pulling was moving them.

The Duke must have done this to prevent Deon from escaping, but now it became detrimental to the nobles.

Deon elbowed the guy behind him in the gut and disarmed the first assailant, then grabbed his arm and pulled him towards himself, using the momentum to throw him at the one behind him.

The chaos got denser as a whole group started charging at him.

He once again signaled to Deceiver that he didn't need any help and to protect his grandparents and Cruel instead. Well, maybe not Cruel, he could hold his own quite well.

It was all well and good to attack as a group, but when there's only one target it gets a little complicated. After all, there's just not enough space for all of them to attack at once.

But they were certainly prepared. Armed with spears to pierce at him through any opening between their comrades bodies, it would certainly be dangerous.

As Deon pushed against them and brought them down, he felt something shift within him, something that had come loose a long time ago.

The world was awash in shining light as a brilliant pillar of light descended on him. When it abated, he was glowing gold.

Chapter Text

If looks could kill, Deon would be dead by now.

The moment the light descended, the commotion died down, everyone instinctively knowing what it represented. No one moved and no one pointed their weapons at him any longer.

Their gazes, now filled with awe and worship, were killing him.

Even the nobles and the soldiers supporting the Duke had stopped and were staring at him with unconcealed admiration. It made him want to gag.

Either hate him enough to kill him or don't, but don't suddenly change your stance half-way through. But as much as he hated it, he understood their reactions.

Deon Hardt was the Warrior.

This was an unprecedented situation for everyone. And how could they ever hate the Warrior? How could they still dare to try to kill him?

Disregarding that they stood no chance, the Warrior was the hope of humanity. Their light in the fight against demon kind.

Their savior.

Clearly, even if they disregarded everything they had heard so far and the things the demigod had already disproven, the Duke must have been wrong. How could the Warrior ever be on the side of the demons?

It's just a shame that Deon had no interest in being their salvation. If it was up to him, he would have never awakened, but unfortunately it wasn't up to him.

The only good thing about it was the timing. At least now, he would no longer feel a desire to kill Cavert or anyone else among the demons.

He should give his children some nice sweets later. What would they like...?

Would they prefer something sweeter or something sour? It occurred to him that he didn't know the preferences of most of them...

He sighed. He'd just need to ask them later.

When they heard his sigh, his former assailants flinched. Right, in that short moment, he'd forgotten they were there. He glanced at them and they flinched once more, shriveling in on themselves.

As Deon quietly looked around the rest of the people present he heard someone mutter very quietly. So quiet he nearly didn't hear it, “...No, this can't be...” Turning towards the source he saw Duke Illuster still being held down by Destruction, a look of complete and utter disbelief on his face while staring at him, “...How? ...N-no, why...?”

He seemed ready to break into hysterics.

Out of everyone, he probably expected this situation the least. He chuckled lightly with a smirk on his face, causing the Duke's face to light up with fear.

Good, the man should fear him. For everything he's done, for what he started and tried to do, Deon still had a lot to pay him back for.

Not to mention he had to gall to try hurting Deceiver. There would absolutely be no forgiveness for that.

He should probably leave a piece of the Duke for both his child and Cavert. Deceiver might want to get back at him for what happened here, even if he was part of planning it all. There was also the fact that both the god and Cavert might just be pissed on Deon's behalf, that's why he was planning to leave a piece for Cavert, too.

...Would that last one apply to demigods, too? Should he just leave this piece of trash to them?

He wouldn't need to get his hands dirty at all and the Duke would likely be far worse off than he would ever be in Deon's hands. Problem was he didn't want them to get their hands dirty either. Maybe if it someone else other than the Duke, but the Duke... yeah, he was too grimy.

He shouldn't do that to his children.

He stopped thinking when he suddenly realized the Emperor had begun to talk at some point. Oops. He should probably pay attention to that.

“-therefore, I believe it necessary to move as soon as possible.”

Oh, turns out it was something important.

“I believe it to be imperative to act immediately.” The Emperor brilliantly smiled down at Deon, who suddenly felt chills run down his back, “Right now, the enemy is still unawares of your identity as the new Warrior, thereby, Deon Hardt shall depart for the demon realm immediately to slay the Demon King in the name of humanity.”

Oh, hell no. Deon barely managed to stop his face from cracking, but something must have shown on his face despite this as the Emperor opened his mouth once more. Couldn't he just keep it shut?

The man's face appeared gentle as he spoke to Deon, “I know it is very sudden, but now is the best time to strike. You only just awakened and they will not have enough time to prepare themselves.”

What preparing themselves? All they did was assemble to watch the Demon King whack the Hero or Warrior or whatever around.

Deon took a deep breath, “I understand what Your Majesty is talking about.” He wouldn't attack the demons, at best he would just go there and chill. “But by doing so, we, too, will not have enough time to prepare themselves. Throwing yourself at the enemy with no plan or preparation is suicide.”

“You are the Warrior.” The Emperor emphasized. Deon wanted to punch him. “We'll send enough people to keep the regular demons at bay, you just need to concentrate on their King. Since you accompanied the Last Hero, you should know how the Demon King fights. You just need to be wary of his magic.”

Well, Deon could tell you first-hand that even without magic, the Demon King hit really hard. He barely won against him in his previous life even though Cavert had used up all his magic.

And even if Deon didn't join the demons side this time, why would he fight for the Empire which he detests? He just needs to protect those close to him, the rest could figure themselves out.

“Knowing how he fights and being the Warrior doesn't make me invincible.” He pointed out, “And no matter how prepared they are, the Demon King just fights as is. As such, being prepared or not does not matter. So why not use the time we have for something other than uselessly rushing in?”

“In that case,” The Emperor smiled, “you can also say that there is no argument against just rushing in if being prepared doesn't matter.”

“But being prepared would give us a better chance to win.” He argued back.

A voice behind him spoke up, agreeing with Deon, “That's right, being prepared is better.”

Deon paused. He knew that voice...!

Before he could turn and glare, a strong pair of arms went over his shoulders and embraced him from behind, using Deon's head to rest his own.

That damn- why was he here!

He could already imagine the self-satisfied expression on Cavert's face right now! Hadn't he expressively told him not to come!

As the hall was once again thrown into a frenzy by the appearance of a single person, weapons were once again pointed in Deon's direction. His eye twitched. This was really getting annoying.

The Emperor was no longer composed, “How dare you come here...!”

“Ah, how nice of you to recognize me. At least I assume you did.” The Demon King smiled, “I don't believe we've met before. Say, isn't it a bit rude to point spears at people on your first meeting?”

Now the Emperor's eye was twitching. Good, at least Deon wasn't the only one annoyed anymore.

Emperor Eduardo gnashed his teeth, “Unhand the Warrior at once!”

“Oh, this guy?” Cavert wound his arms around Deon a little further, “It's not like I'm holding him prisoner. He can push me away anytime he wants.”

If he actually did that now, that would be really comical, but Deon didn't feel like dealing with the Emperor who would undoubtedly order him to attack Cavert the moment he freed himself. So he might as well stay like this.

Cavert was very comfortable and warm anyway.

The Emperor made another effort, pointing his head towards the demigod of destruction and Deceiver, whom they had only recently learned was a god, “We have two divine beings on our side, so it would be wise not to act foolish.”

“I'm hardly acting foolish.” Cavert replied, not taking the Emperor serious in the slightest. He didn't even glance at the deities the Emperor referred to, keeping his attention solely on his fellow ruler. “Listen well, okay?”

Deon felt a shiver go down his back again and Cavert, still hugging him, obviously felt it and used some magic to warm him.

Rather than using magic, Deon would prefer it if he stopped and didn't say whatever he planned to say.

He could feel Cavert's smug smile as the Demon King continued grandly, “I will have you know that, by the will of the gods-” Oh no, “-Deon and I destined to be together!”

Deon didn't hesitate and buried his face in his hands. Why? Whyyyy? Why did he do that in front of so many people-!

“That's utter nonsense!” The Emperor exclaimed. Deon should have expected that the only person able to respond to something like that so quickly was him.

Hearing what the Emperor said, before either Cavert or Deon could respond, Destruction burst out laughing. He grandly smirked at the Emperor, “It really isn't!” He wasn't even trying to stifle his laughter as he kept speaking, “By the will of the gods- by my siblings and I!- they are a pair! If you don't agree, I can immediately start changing your mind! ...Forcefully.”

At the Emperor's astonished face, Deceiver couldn't help but start snickering as well, “That's right, we have chosen thus.”

Destruction's smirk turned savage, “So don't you bloody dare interfere!”

“That is correct.” A light enveloped the room for a second time that day as three more figures emerged from it. His daughter, Creation, had taken the lead in front of the two siblings accompanying her and spoke up, “The gods of this World have made a decision. It is not up to you or your kin to make judgments on our will.”

Chapter Text

Emperor Eduardo's look was one of utter disbelief as he heard Creation's words, “That is the Demon King!”

“We're aware.” Creation curtly answered, “I don't see what point you're trying to make with this. In fact, isn't it great?”

“What's supposed to be great about it?!” A noble loudly protested, “He's humanity's greatest threat!”

The Demigod of Creation didn't even change her expression. Slightly behind her, Observation spoke up, “The demons are certainly a threat to humanity, but considering how willing you are to fight each other, their contribution to your problems hardly matters.”

“Furthermore,” Creation added, “You humans hold political marriages with hostile nations that once plundered your lands all the time. The only difference here is that one party isn't human.”

Another red-faced noble shouted, “Exactly! He's a demon!”

Creation remained calm as she addressed him, “To be frank, a Demon King isn't a demon, they're a separate existence.”

“Who cares about the semantics, that's still a demon! Can't you see the problem here!”

The demigod sighed, “The only problem I see is that 'That's a demon!' is the only argument you have.” She snorted, “If the other party was one of us- a deity- I'm sure you would be singing a different tune.”

Several people pursed their mouths and averted their gazes. This was, of course, because Creation was right. Cavert was proud of her and had nodded along with her words.

The humans didn't seem to like that much. All the better for him, because he found this rather funny. Unfortunately, nobody commented on it.

Balance, who had been quiet until now, walked in front of his sisters and also spoke up, “I know you feel uneasy, but think about it. While one party may be the Demon King, the other is the Warrior. There is no one better to keep the one you fear in check.”

The Demon King felt Deon shift a little in his arms and saw that his ears were slightly red. He hugged him a little tighter as he realized his beloved was embarrassed.

He would have given him a kiss to the forehead but he didn't feel like getting punched today. Not that Deon would punch him, his human would just scathingly glare at him.

“Now that I think about it.” The Demon King chuckled with a beautiful but conspiratory smile, “All of this reminds me of something.” He turned that smile towards the Duke, “I truly have to thank you, Duke Illuster. If you hadn't tried to kill Deon by sending him along with the Hero, I would have never met him.” His smile deepened, “This is all thanks to you.”

“You-!” The Duke's voice was rough as he screamed, “You were the one who told me to do that!”

“Funny.” Cavert replied with a pure smile, his eyes shaped into crescents, “I don't remember doing that.” He made an 'oh' face before his previous smile turned wicked, “But I do remember something else. Care to guess?”

There was no answer from the Duke, but Deon stiffened.

Cavert's smile only widened at the silence, “I remember, some ten years ago, a noble of this nation summoned me, intending to form a contract. Yes, now that I think about it, you look just like him. A littler older, perhaps.”

“What are you on about now!” The cornered Duke panicked, “I didn't make any contract with you!”

“True that.” Cavert replied, causing their surroundings to be confused. He kept talking, “After all, I was the one who refused to make one with you. Whether we're talking about now or the past, I never made any contract with you.”

That wasn't even a lie. What he'd given the Duke was more like a... half-contract. Not a contract.

Duke Illuster balked at that, “As if! You made a contract with me after I sent Deon Hardt to the Demon Realm!”

Cavert smirked, “So you admit to that?”

The other flinched, then his face turned ferocious, “Don't just act like I'm the only evil here!” The Duke shouted, “You sure are doing well, leaving out the bet on whether he'd survive! You agreed to it!”

“Don't remember doing that.” Cavert mournfully shook his head. He turned towards Destruction, “Did he happen to hit his head when you threw him down? It sounds like he's broken a couple of things.”

The said demigod snorted, “I would hope so, but unfortunately he's completely fucking healthy.”

Cavert shook his head in a disappointed notion and turned his sight back onto the unpleasant human, “Since you like to put such blame on my shoulders, why don't I lay some on yours? Although I'm sure I have someone that will confirm the truth of my words.”

He shot a look at Observer who nodded, “If the Demon King lies, I'll make sure to set the record straight.”

The Duke gnashed his teeth, “You're all in cahoots anyway!”

Cavert tilted his head, amused, “Yes?” His lips twitched upwards, “We're all doing our best to get rid of the real pest, after all.”

“How dare you-!”

“Oh, stop shouting already.” The Demon King rubbed his hear, “I can hear you even without that.”

Now, what should he start with? The aforementioned bet?

“You did propose a bet,” He continued, implying he may not have agreed to it, “you proposed it after I wasn't interested in making a contract with you. The content, specifically, was about how long a frail child like Deon Hardt would survive in a war.”

Deon tensed against him and Cavert squeezed his shoulder in comfort. Hearing it all said out loud must make him uneasy.

“You were the one who forged documents to have Deon conscripted instead of his brother. You were the one who did that, solely to gain my interest.” Cavert glared at the Duke, “You were the one who wanted power so badly that you disregarded all moral conscience.”

Suddenly, Deon spoke up, “Since we're already on the topic, I actually want to ask you a question, Duke.” He was also glaring at the noble, “I was told you knew the method of summoning the Demon King from a book. Where did you get it?”

Deon sure knew how to score. Cavert smiled to himself as he praised his treasure's mind.

In response to Deon's question, the Duke blanched and stayed silent. There was an unmistakable glint of fear in his eyes.

Cavert smirked and raised his hand, “I know about that. If the Duke doesn't want to answer, I can tell you.”

“Can you?” Deon asked.

Cavert nodded, “Absolutely.”

“Well, if Duke Illuster doesn't want to talk we can listen to what you have to say. How about it, Duke?” Deon smiled, “Do you want to tell us instead?”

The Duke was shaking. It was clear to everyone at this point that the answer was something he wanted to keep hidden. Even if it was going to come out anyway, it was still better as long as he didn't say it himself.

Maybe it was the reality of what he'd done that made him like this. Cavert wasn't sure and truthfully didn't care much. If it wasn't for the fact that the Duke was the catalyst to everything Deon had gone through and that he not only tried to kill Deon but attempted to do so in the Demon Realm, Cavert wouldn't bother with him, much less talk to him.

He just wanted to give this man some grief. In the end, the one to decide the Duke's punishment should be Deon.

If the Empire tried to do it instead Cavert would just have someone kidnap the Duke from his cell later, no problem.

Seeing that the noble had no intention to talk whatsoever, the Demon King turned his eyes on the Emperor, “I believe you might want to hear this. Although I think you probably know about part of it. The one that doesn't involve summoning me, that is.”

The Emperor raised an eyebrow, “I have no idea what you could be talking about.”

“That's because you're still missing the context.” Cavert smirked in the Duke's direction before looking back at the Ruler, “A book containing the method to summon me must be pretty hidden, if not tightly guarded.”

When Cavert paused, Deon lightly elbowed him to tell him to keep talking.

The Demon King did as was demanded of him and continued, “A place you would never expect such a book in, a place that is always tightly guarded... Doesn't the palace sound like such a place?” There were several sharp inhales, but nobody dared to make a noise. The Emperor was tightly grasping the armrest of his throne. “I was summoned ten years ago. What else happened in the palace ten years ago? I'll give you a hint. It changed everything for the then kingdom.”

The Emperor shakily released the breath he'd been holding and gritted his teeth. He proceeded to glare at the Duke with unmatched fervor.

“Of course I understand that this is a pretty hefty accusation.” The Demon King spoke, “So I'm sure our honored guests will explain further. Their words should be more believable than mine.”

Observer sighed, but stepped forward, “Ten years ago, Duke Illuster poisoned the first prince in order to get his hand on the aforementioned book. It is his fault that the prince died.”

The moment the penny dropped, the hall was covered in outrage and shouts. The demigods made no move to calm them.

Duke Illuster just hung his head and refused to make eye-contact with anyone. His lack of response just confirmed Observer's words.

It was good that he'd realized that no matter how much he resists, he won't be able to escape the inevitable today.

Cavert decided to pile on more, “On top of that, the summoning method used is pretty brutal.” He looked around the hall, “Did you know you require a lot of sacrifices to do something like that? He killed dozens of people for something he had no guarantee would even work. After all, how could he know the content of the book was accurate, or even true?”

The shouting couldn't possibly get louder, so the news were digested with seething rage instead. It's like everyone suddenly forgot that the one talking was the Demon King they'd hatefully argued against just a little earlier.

Deon patted Cavert's arm and stepped out of the Demon King's embrace. He looked at the Emperor, “Your Majesty, since today's events have taken such a turn, why not place the Duke under arrest and deal with the rest later? It's getting quite late.”

“...” The Emperor sighed, “You're right.” He directed the guards, “Place the Duke under arrest and immediately search his residence. As for everyone else, you're dismissed. We'll hold a meeting about the Duke's matters and the rest of today's revelations at another date.”

With those parting words, the Emperor left once Duke Illuster was restrained by the knights. The gathered nobles all left one after another, including Deon and his family who were headed to the Hardt family manor alongside Cavert and the demigods.

Chapter Text

Deon was being gently admonished by his mother, “Really dear, you should have told us earlier.”

The subject of the admonishment surprisingly wasn't about Cavert and himself but their children.

“Honestly, because you didn't tell us we don't even have gifts prepared.” His mother sighed, “This is so embarrassing. We're meeting our grandchildren for the first time and we've barely prepared anything to give them.”

“Mom, they don't mind.” Deon assured and quickly looked at his children, “Right?”

They didn't answer and just looked at him pitifully. Destruction was snickering at him from the back of their group.

This group of kids...

“Don't worry, don't worry~” His mother cooed over them, “It's not all that much, but we do have some things prepared already. Come here, grandma will give you some gifts.”

The only reason they now knew these were the kids Deon mentioned before is simple. Since Deceiver is Deon's kid, then his siblings might have been acknowledged as such as well. All it took was Deon's mother casually asking them.

That's when it came out that they were his children from his first life. Although they still left out their relation to the Demon King. When Deon quietly asked Observer about it, she told him it was so they wouldn't be overwhelmed with news.

As his mother was distracted with the kids, his father came up to him. He looked as serious as ever and shortly glanced at Cavert before speaking to Deon, “Do you like him?”

Deon had to pause for a moment, not having expected such a question. He nodded, “I do.”

“The kids aren't forcing you into this?”

Deon laughed quietly, “No. They're just giving us a good reason if someone from the Empire asks.” He smiled at his father, “I'm quite happy, so please don't worry about me.”

His father nodded, then turned towards the Demon King with a stern face, “If I hear anything negative...”

Cavert held his hands up, “I won't hurt Deon at all, please rest assured. If I do, I'll be the first to deal with myself.”

The Count acknowledged his response and warned him, “I better not hear otherwise.”

Behind their father, Cruel finally spoke up for the first time since they returned, “No way.” He shook his head, his face pulled into a grimace, “Father, I don't agree!”

The Count looked at his older son, “Cruel...”

“Deon hasn't been back with us for all that long and now someone wants to take him away again. Absolutely not! Not to mention that we don't know this guy at all!” Cruel glared at Cavert, completely ignoring the fact that while he certainly didn't know Cavert well, he did know him.

“That's easy to solve.” Cavert commented, “I can stay here with Deon and we can all get to know each other.”

Deon chose not to comment on the fact that Cruel didn't actually care about getting to know him and just didn't like them being together.

He sighed and faced his brother, “I can take care of myself. Besides,” he leaned on Cavert, “I really like him.”

His brother's face was sour, “Deon, I don't trust him.”

“I know.” Deon was aware, “But ultimately, this is my decision. How about this: If anything happens, I'll let you beat him up.”

“I can't beat him.” Cruel huffed and admitted.

Deon smiled, “Don't worry, I won't allow him to fight back. You can beat him up all you want.”

Cavert unhappily poked his cheek, “I don't want to be beaten by my brother-in-law.”

“I'm not your Brother-in-law!”

Cavert smirked, “Not yet.”

Before Cruel could explode, Deon intervened, “Alright, alright. Stop it. I'll ignore both of you if you keep at it.”

They immediately started to look away from each other, one looking significantly more unhappy than the other.

He turned towards Cavert, “And you shouldn't rile him up. Be nice.”

As the Demon King sulked about being told off, Deon looked back towards his mother and the children.

Deceiver was quietly and happily munching on some chocolate, Destruction also had some but was just holding it in his hand as he observed the rest of his siblings.

The remaining three had turned into children were being coddled by their grandmother. Considering how passive the girls had been in all of this until now, he was glad to see them happily cuddling their grandparent.

Balance wasn't partaking in the hug, but seemed pretty content getting his head stroked.

The only question Deon had about this is why they turned into kids, but that may just be to be cuter in their grandmother's eyes. His mother certainly seemed happy as well.

It was good that they were all having fun and were enjoying themselves. Deon was extremely glad they treated them like actual grandchildren, rather than gods.

Same went for Cavert. They were taking him serious as Deon's partner and not just the King of all demons.

Cavert, much to Cruel's displeasure, hugged Deon from the side and looked at the children as well, “They seem to be having fun. Your mother, too.”

“Yeah.”

His father spoke up, “It's because she's been wanting to meet them since Deon first mentioned them. Besides, what proper grandparent isn't excited to meet their family's little ones?”

Deon smiled lightly, “They're not all that little.”

“Regardless, they're our grandchildren. Bring them over a lot, okay?”

He nodded, “Of course.”

Cavert snuggled a little more against Deon, “We definitely will.”

This situation was bad. The Warrior, who'd only just awakened, was now in the claws of the Demon King.

The good news was that they were still in the Empire. Still within reach.

When the Demigod of Destruction had threatened them back then, had it been with this outcome in mind? Was the reason he had suddenly decided to speak to them not because there was a disagreement but because that was when the demigods decided to pair these two together?

Could the Demon King and Warrior really get along?

Eduardo didn't think so. These were two existences that were polar opposites and as different as day and night.

Nobody ever said the gods wouldn't toy with the world for their own amusement.

The Demon King and Warrior were mortal enemies, it was impossible for them to be together. Sooner or later, one of them would attack the other, just how it has always been.

The Empire couldn't give the Demon King the chance to strike first. Therefore, Deon had to return.

Even if it meant using force.

There were soldiers outside the Hardt estate and not only a few. Seems the Emperor wanted to seize Deon by force.

Cavert leaned against the wall next to the window, not interested in looking at them further, “I could get rid of them, but... you wouldn't like that, right?”

Deon's father shook his head, “They're merely obeying the Emperor. There's no need to hurt them if we can avoid it.”

The Countess was worried, “Then what do we do? I'm not just going to hand my child over to them!”

“Of course we're not going to do that.” The Count assured her. He turned towards his sons, “You two should get out of here with the Demon King.”

“You think I'd leave you behind?” Deon huffed. He could certainly beat up the bunch below, it's just that the Emperor would simply send more his way.

It was annoying, but not difficult.

Cavert chuckled, “If we're leaving, we can just all leave together.”

“That would be too much trouble.” Deon's father protested, “We'll remain here and try talking to His Majesty.”

Deon shook his head, “If the Emperor was easy to reason with, I would have quit long ago.”

In such a scenario he could have just used the 'Demon King's curse' to remove himself from his position, but here he was, having been the third Hero for all this time.

“Then that's settled.” Cavert smiled, “I promised Deon I'd protect his loved ones, so I'll just take everyone here with me.”

“While you're at it-” Deon sighed, “Take those idiots along, too.” He pointed his finger at the window.

As he looked, Cavert could see the Lofty Knights heckling the imperial soldiers, “...Got it.”

Chapter Text

The next several months spanned into two years as peace talks were held between the Abyss and the Human World.

After the Warrior and his family went to the Demon Realm, the Emperor tried to rally troops to reclaim him, claiming he'd been kidnapped, but Deon used a broadcast to refute all his claims and reveal what the gods had decided upon.

With these deities coming out and confirming his words, some even paying a few reluctant rulers a visit, the uproar calmed down before long.

This reversal sparked a new kind of outrage. In the wake of this, Emperor Eduardo Desert abdicated, leaving the throne to his niece, the princess. Her brother served beside her as an advisor.

When an agreement was finally reached between the two realms, Deon's parents returned to the Empire. Cruel followed them shortly after, having felt the need to threaten the Demon King a little.

Upon his return, the Empress appointed him as an ambassador between the two realms due to his relation to Deon and his previous stay in the demon realm.

Although things were still quite rocky between the realms, peace had finally been established.

“Could you stop glaring at me?” Cavert was adjusting his clothes, doing his best to ignore his seething soon-to-be brother-in-law.

“Heh.” Cruel laughed darkly, “I might if you call today off.”

Cavert snorted, “Your brother would kill us both.”

“Fine with me as long as you're dead.”

“...” Forget it, he would just refuse to acknowledge this guy until the ceremony.

Not even Cruel's refusal to accept Deon's and his relationship could dampen his mood today. He was finally going to get married to Deon!

As his beloved was from the Empire, they decided to conduct a wedding in that style with some liberties as this was still the demon realm at the end of the day. The majority of those in attendance were demons anyway.

Besides, there's no wedding traditions among the demons.

There was also the fact that same-sex marriage wasn't allowed in the Empire, so all ceremonies there were conducted with a bride and groom in mind, not two grooms or two brides.

And the Demon King certainly wouldn't put his beloved into the position of bride, Deon had already looked annoyed when he'd only made a joke about it and Cavert quite valued his life right now.

If he wasn't alive, how could he snuggle with and kiss Deon?

It wasn't long before they were called to the venue. Cruel reluctantly took his seat between his nieces and nephews in the front row.

Ririnell was standing up front, ahead of all the seats. Cavert was quite amused as he thought back on how the Corps Commanders all fought for the position of officiant. In the end, Ririnell was the one who prevailed and was now proudly standing there and waiting for them.

Deon also entered around this time and fell into pace with him. Cavert couldn't help but look.

His beautiful Deon was wearing all white, just like Cavert, but it naturally looked the best on his dear treasure.

Deon averted his face, “Don't stare so much.” The tips of his ears were red.

The Demon King couldn't help but smile. It was very endearing, “What's wrong with looking? You dressed up so nicely, naturally I have to look.”

His beloved lightly punched his arm, “Don't be embarrassing today.”

“Today is the perfect day to be embarrassing.” He chuckled as he saw the shade of crimson on Deon's ears go darker.

Not long after, everyone was in their seats and the couple stood in front.

Ririnell cleared her throat, stopping even the quietest of whispers, and began to speak, “Welcome, everyone, to the union of His Majesty Cavert and 0^th Corps Commander Deon Hardt.”

Correcting the demons knowledge of Deon's name had been an effort- one Cavert quite disliked as he was now no longer the only who could call him by name here- but it was one that had to be made.

“This special occasion marks the beginning of their life together as a married couple. It is our privilege to witness this moment of joy.” She took a deep breath, “The moment we've all waited for is almost here, but first I must ask: Should anyone here have an objection to this marriage, speak now or forever hold your peace!”

“-” Cavert glanced to the side, having heard something, only to see Balance and Creation smile at him encouragingly while physically restraining their uncle. Creation even covered his mouth with both of her hands.

He looked back at Deon right as Ririnell continued, “Since there are no objections-” He could still make out Cruel's now intensified struggle from the corner of his eye, “Then you may now kiss!"

Cavert smiled brighter than ever before as he leaned in and kissed Deon.

And that concludes the story, the curtain now falls.

I had my doubts when the God of Deception initially wound back the hands of time, but in the end it ended quite nicely.

Although these children will likely think of me as the villain of the story after I took half of their father's soul. Yet in the end, opposition is needed to grow.

Maybe one push would have been enough, but another or two can't hurt either.

And now look at them, look at how happy they are. Deceiver finally has his family, Deon has resolved his regrets and the Demon King wishes to live.

It's a happy end, don't you think?

Oh, you still have a question?

The Duke? Well, he's not important enough to talk about.