Later that night, Logan and I ventured out together. Our destination was a Vassal State within the Demon King’s Domain.
Calling it a "Vassal State" is slightly misleading; it wasn't as if some foreign power had surrendered to us. Rather, I had granted independence to a segment of my own territory. Managing such a vast expanse had become an exercise in futility. Burdensome administrative tasks were piling up, causing no small amount of grief for my subordinates. To alleviate this, I decided to entrust the administration of the remote border regions to local officials.
Six months have passed since their inception. Thus far, no major issues have surfaced. Despite some initial growing pains, they have successfully established themselves as functioning nations.
However, the established nations Within the Continent have raised a chorus of condemnation, branding these new territories as abominable states under the Demon King’s thumb. Their reaction was entirely predictable.
For now, I intend to ignore them. They may shout their criticisms from the rooftops, but they won't dare launch an actual attack. The various nations have yet to recover from the devastation wrought by the beasts. Furthermore, an attack on a Vassal State is a de facto Declaration of War against the Demon King himself. They know this, and I doubt any are foolish enough to incite a full-scale conflict. They are likely plotting behind the scenes, but the reality is that they cannot interfere openly.
The emergence of these states has only increased the pressure on the existing nations. With my tactical options expanded, I plan to exert even greater influence over the continental landscape moving forward.
Hovering in the sky above, we looked down at the city. This land, once a mere province of the Demon King’s Domain, was now alive with construction work that continued well into the night. Magical lights placed at regular intervals bathed the streets in a warm glow. From this height, life below looked remarkably prosperous.
Standing beside me, Logan flipped through his documents as he gave his report.
"Manpower is a bit thin in this sector. I’m planning to dispatch some Golems. Do you have any objections?"
"No, I’ll leave that to you."
I nodded, my gaze drifting toward the horizon. Far from the town's center, a blue flame flickered in the darkness. Using Clairvoyance Magic to sharpen my vision, I saw a small village. The inhabitants had gathered in a central square, holding the Blue Flame aloft.
"What sort of festival is that?" I asked.
"Apparently, they’ve taken to enshrining the Demon King," Logan replied. "I’m told it’s a custom that took root quite recently."
"I see..."
I focused on the villagers. I could sense a profound reverence from them—a genuine affection. And that sentiment was directed toward none other than myself. The realization felt jarringly out of place.
"Deifying the Demon King... that is a strange custom indeed."
"Given everything you've done, it’s not that surprising."
"What do you mean?"
Logan looked out at the distant Blue Flame as he answered.
"The Current Demon King has worked tirelessly for the people of his domain, and they’ve noticed. You’ve taken countless lives, yes, but you’ve offered salvation to just as many—if not more."
"……"
"Does it bother you, being worshiped?"
"Surprisingly, it doesn't feel entirely bad. However, I have no intention of abdicated my throne as the Absolute Evil. Those who worship me should remain a minority."
I wasn't rejecting the villagers' feelings, but I had a role to play as the Immortal Evil. My existence was meant to be the antithesis of a deity. If humanity as a whole began to view me as a god, I would no longer be able to maintain the balance I require.
I will have to be more calculated in my movements from now on. Every action I take shapes the public perception of the Demon King. Even when I act to help others, I must consider the optics. Since Camouflage is Luciana’s specialty, I should probably consult her on the matter.
As I reflected on this, I realized Logan was watching me. His gaze was steady and piercing.
"Dwight, you’ve done a good job of keeping your head. Even with the weight of the Demon King’s Duty on your shoulders, you haven't lost your Heroic Disposition."
"Is that... a compliment?"
"At the very least, it's a blessing. It’s because you are a true hero at heart that you haven't let this immense power go to your head. You've remained focused on your goal. If you lacked that sense of justice, you would have become a true monster by now and reduced the world to ash."
Logan's words struck a chord. At this point, there is no one left who can oppose me. Not the powerful generals of the Demon King’s Army, and certainly not the Defense Mechanisms. I can sweep aside the Beasts of the Outer World as if they were nothing more than dust.
If I so desired, I could bring this world to its knees in less than three days. No matter what powerful foes stood in my way, I have the strength to see it through. The only reason I don't is because my identity as a Sage remains intact. And, above all, because the memory of The Special Someone still anchors my soul.
"As your friend, I respect what you’re doing," Logan said. "I’ll keep supporting you as long as I’m able."
"…I appreciate it."
I bowed my head slightly. His words were a source of strength. He is the one who keeps my path illuminated, no matter how dark things get. It is likely because of him that I can still recognize the human parts of myself despite my undead nature.
"If I ever stray from the path," I said, "I want you to be the one to tell me."
"Of course. I’ve already told you—I’ll stop you even if it costs me my life."
"I’m glad to hear it, but please, try not to die in the process."
"Hah. You haven't changed a bit."
Logan let out a small laugh and pointed back toward the horizon where the Royal Castle stood.
"Let’s head back. Grom should have dinner ready by now."
"Agreed."
With a thought, I activated my Teleportation Magic.