I flinched under Luciana’s gaze.
An unfathomable pressure radiated from her. Though she maintained a cool expression, she was clearly nursing a resentment—one that bordered on outright fury.
Why was she so angry? I wanted to ask her true intentions, but I had a feeling that would only fan the flames. I had no choice but to remain silent.
Meanwhile, Henry came to a halt in front of Grom and gave a casual wave. He spoke in his usual lighthearted tone.
"You're keeping us at arm's length, Boss. This is exactly the kind of talk you should save for when we're out drinking."
"…I shouldn't spoil the vintage with my trivial worries and complaints."
"Oi, oi, you don't get it at all. Holding back like that is the height of boorishness. The flavor’s in the company, not the bottle."
Henry let out a sigh and shook his head. It was the reaction of a teacher dealing with a particularly slow-witted student. As I remained silent, unable to offer a retort, Luciana’s pressure intensified.
She spoke to me in a voice heavy with sincerity.
"Demon King-sama."
"What is it?"
"If you have a wish, why don't you just make it come true? You probably already have a lead on how to pull it off, don't you?"
"…………"
I fell silent. The atmosphere wasn't one where I could brush her off with a lie, yet I couldn't deny her claim. Luciana’s intuition was spot on.
The Resurrection of the Dead was one of the ventures that even the Research Institute had deemed impossible. Although analysis was still ongoing, there had been no major breakthroughs. However, compared to when that research first began, one element had changed dramatically.
That element was my own power.
Previously, I was merely a recipient of the Blessing of the Valley of the Dead. Now, in addition to my natural strength having increased significantly, I possessed a vast array of Beast's Abnormalities.
These Abnormalities were incredibly diverse. While most could be replicated through conventional magic, a few possessed effects that far surpassed known magical theory. I was intuitively certain that if I were to use these to their full extent and cooperate with the Research Institute Director, I could likely resurrect that woman.
The power dwelling within this body had reached a domain where it could warp even the Immutable Laws of the world.
That said, whether or not I should actually do it was a separate matter. My swollen Authority held immeasurable influence; in my hands, it was a tool that could potentially bring about the end of the world.
Aware of this weight, I tried to argue back.
"Just because it's possible doesn't mean I should do it so casually. This is on a different level than my previous worries. It’s certainly not something I can decide on my own—"
"Yeah, yeah, I get all that."
Luciana clapped her hands together, cutting me off. She pressed her index finger against the tip of my nose. As I reflexively stopped speaking, she allowed a faint smile to play on her lips.
"Then we should just decide together. I have no objections to the Hero's Resurrection. Bone Minister, what about you?"
"I am in favor. To fulfill my Demon King-sama's desires is the highest priority."
Grom, his arms crossed, replied instantly. The flame in his single eye regained its vigor, burning with a hollow roar. Shrugging her shoulders, Luciana then turned her gaze toward Henry.
"I figured you'd say that. What about you?"
"Object? Not a chance. I want to fight the resurrected Hero. She’s the one who taught the Boss his swordplay, right? My expectations are growing so much it’s becoming a problem."
Henry answered with a ferocious grin. His eyes shone with a brilliant, predatory light. He looked like a starving beast. He was likely being entirely serious; if she were to be resurrected, he would probably be the first to challenge her.
Having heard their opinions, Luciana turned back to me with a triumphant expression.
"And there you have it. All three executives are in favor. We could hold a formal meeting if you want, but I suspect the others would say the same thing."
"…………"
I couldn't bring myself to look Luciana and the others in the eye, so I stared down at the ground instead. Finding no words to offer, I could only retreat into an awkward silence.
Then, Luciana suddenly slapped my shoulder. A part of my bone chipped from the impact, but she continued, unconcerned.
"You're too pessimistic about everything. If the Hero's Resurrection causes more problems, you can just solve them with your power. It's what you always do, isn't it?"
"Indeed, that is true."
"Honestly, no matter how many times I tell you, you keep trying to carry everything yourself… You really should fix that habit, you know?"
"…My apologies."
On that point, I truly had no defense. I felt like I was being lectured every time I faced a major problem. It was a bad habit that had followed me from my previous life. Looking back, I had memories of being told the same thing frequently by her as well.
"Well, we have to settle the Savior Matter first, though. Let's try the Resurrection of the Hero after that, okay?"
"I understand. Let us proceed in that direction."
I accepted Luciana’s proposal, and Grom and Henry seemed content with the decision. Her suggestion lacked any concrete details and ignored every potential concern. It was more reckless than bold.
And yet, I didn't feel that much anxiety. Perhaps I had been moved by her boundlessly positive attitude. The worries that had been sinking deep within my chest felt lighter now.
To plot the resurrection of that person… I must be a failure as a Demon King. For someone aiming for the peace of the world, it was an unthinkable choice—one I should absolutely never make.
But more than anything else, I personally wanted to see it through. And my subordinates supported me.
It would be a lie to say I had no hesitation, but I finally had the courage to overcome it. I do not know what will happen to the world once she regains her life. It might not lead to the conclusion I desire. Even so, I intend to try. It is necessary in order to move forward.
When I reunite with you, I will…
I cut off the thought before it could fully form. Solving the Savior Problem had to come first. I could indulge in idle imagination after the work was done.