Chapter 186: The Banquet’s Night at the Dark Capital

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And what better way to begin, with an enourmous chapter. Oh joy! 😀
May we continue to live a loong year more and enjoy the blessing of everyone’s company!

KAMPAAI!!


I was almost brought into the feast of the Slime-kin and end up taking lodging.

It took more time than I thought.

A mysterious scenery also serves as a pitfall in this kind of sense.

A picturesque scenery should be enjoyed when one has the time.

I made it in time for the banquet, but I returned one hour later than planned.

“Then the egg of Crimson Red has been safely entrusted, right? Looks like it was a success.”

“No. I refused their feast, so I probably dampened their mood a bit.” (Makoto)

“If it’s only that, I don’t think they mind. In the first place, they wouldn’t think bad of the person that brought the one they worship just because of something like that.”

“…It would be good if that’s the case. I don’t think I will be associating with them deeply in the future, so there was a part of me that acted slightly halfheartedly thinking that it would most likely be the last time I see of them… you see.” (Makoto)

“And in truth, having an individual settlement placed at these parts would be harsh even if we were to station the Forest Onis. It would be fine if we have teams formed, but if they are alone, it might be slightly dangerous. In that sense, our relationship with them will most likely not get any deeper.”

“We are already lacking in people, so I don’t plan on going so far. Even if I bring people to this capital…we would need Shiki or Tomoe to manage them every now and then, right? It would be bad to have the store on leave after all.” (Makoto)

“But the other side… might request of it.”

“At that time, I will politely refuse.” (Makoto)

“That would be the best course. By the way, about the seating precedences of today…”

I return to the demon race capital and change to a dwarf-made ceremonial dress in our room.

At first, they proposed a room for each of us, but it would be a pain when returning to Asora, so we told them that one room would be fine.

Also, the number of places where I can’t wear my jacket has increased, so I relied on the words of a dwarf that told me to leave it to him, and had him create a number of clothes that can be used for parties and for etiquette.

Now that I think of it, I wonder why I didn’t ask the Orcs for that.

Even though I should have known that armor-like effects would be added to the clothes the moment I asked a dwarf to make it.

As a result, it took quite a lot of time before it was finished.

Right now they are at the drawers.

It is kind of a waste.

“Seating precedence? Ah, the seat numbers huh. Uhm…” (Makoto)

I have Shiki show us where we will be sitting.

“We would be here.” (Shiki)

“Ah, hm? That’s quite close to the Demon Lord. This could be taken as being welcomed, right?” (Makoto)

Are they appealing again?

I did tell them that I won’t be favoring the demons though.

“The segmentation of the welcoming is quite something. Without a doubt, we are being treated as state guests.” (Shiki)

“S-State guests… Mere merchants like us, are on the level of importance to that of a country?” (Makoto)

“As long as we don’t delve into it, they will most likely not be saying it themselves, but it seems that way. As expected of the Demon Lord Zef. He must have felt something from Waka-sama.” (Shiki)

“Is there going to be an incredible welcoming hell coming?” (Makoto)

My stomach is hurting already.

Even though the Rotsgard academy festival was already too much for me, and yet…

“Considering these seats, it might conversely be different. I think a chat with the Demon Lord will be the priority. Even if we enter, the Demon Generals should have taken their seats already.” (Shiki)

I have a sense of discomfort from the words of Shiki.

Leaving aside the Demon Generals, we will be sharing table with the Demon Lord’s children, right?

In that case, I feel like he should be saying more though.

“Shiki, the ones we will be sharing tables with will be the children of the Demon Lord, so they should be the prince-sama and princess-sama, right?” (Makoto)

… Even so, the Demon Generals and the royalty huh.

That will mentally fatigue me plenty.

Please learn that even if you have a refreshing smile, even if you smile gently, it will be pressuring depending on the person.

No, if they are doing it while knowing, I would just have to endure it though.

I can’t just tell them to please stop smiling after all.

“Oya, ah right. Waka-sama didn’t know, right.” (Shiki)

“What?” (Makoto)

“The demon race chooses their next Lord by their power. At the election there might be slight political power involved, but in the end, you won’t be able to become the Demon Lord unless you have the power to support it.” (Shiki)

“I see.” (Makoto)

“That next generation Demon Lord is called the the child of the Demon Lord by the demon race.” (Shiki)

“…Is that different from being a prince or princess?” (Makoto)

It would create factions between siblings, but I feel like I am only being told that they prioritize strength.

“Sorry, my words were insufficient. In other words, lineage doesn’t matter within promising candidates, and after gathering around a hundred, they give them education to become Lords, and among them, the next Demon Lord will be elected. The kids that are gathered are all ‘Children of the Demon Lord’.” (Shiki)

… Eh?

In other words…

“The ones there weren’t children that came directly from the Demon Lord?” (Makoto)

“Most likely. It was already reduced to 4, so the next one will probably decide the future Demon Lord. Of course, the ones that couldn’t become Demon Lord will be given fitting posts and will take the role of leading the demon race together with the Demon Lord.” (Shiki)

So the linage doesn’t matter huh.

That’s impressive.

If you are promising, you will separate from your family in a young age and be treated as the child of the Demon Lord and be polished.

With that, promising talents would definitely be raised. They will be raised but…I also feel like questioning if it’s really necessary to go that far.

As long as you have power, as long as you have talent; they disregard the person’s circumstances, is what I felt in those words.

“The demon race really is completely into a power doctrine huh.” (Makoto)

“Yeah, if they don’t do that, they might not have been able to survive, but it is certainly extreme.” (Shiki)

“Even if it does produce results…it is not a way of thinking that I would like to bring to Asora.” (Makoto)

“Other places will be other places; Asora will be Asora, Waka-sama.” (Shiki)

“Right.” (Makoto)

I nod at the words of Shiki.

“Waka-sama! The guides have come-desu wa!” (Mio)

“Mio, welcome back. So the guides have come. You arrived barely in time. You took your time coming back.” (Makoto)

“I came satisfied. It was all as planned-desu wa.” (Mio)

“… Yes yes. Then, let’s go.” (Makoto)

I feel like she is the type of person that would say: ‘There’s still one minute left till closing time!’.

… I was also that type as well.

How nostalgic.

“Yes.” (Mio)

Just like Mio -who was barely in time- said, the guides came soon after.

Mio is, without doubt, the person that is enjoying this trip the most.

◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆

I’m glad it is not a formal stand-up meal.

In terms of feeling, this is more like that of a wedding reception.

Of course, there’s no bridegroom or bride though.

At times there would be performance dances, announced shows, and buffet cuisine of incredible size being distributed.

The atmosphere is lively and the food is good.

Mio and Shiki are having fun, and I am also enjoying it plenty myself.

I am grateful for the consideration of the demons for letting us act without the need of being too reserved.

Just that, the gaze of the Demon Lord and the children were frequently directed to our side.

It is obvious for the host to worry about the state of their guests, so while brushing it as something that can’t be helped, I also felt slight nervousness because of it.

There were moments when the Demon Lord would bring conversations to me.

The other people that were probably nobles of the demon race or important people of the army; those people didn’t throw any such conversation. There’s quite the distance from them, but this point honestly makes me happy.

The guess of Shiki seems to have been spot on.

And also…

“It seems his memories are gone, but how to say it, it seems there’s still the trauma clinging onto him.” (Makoto)

“…Looks that way. I am slightly surprised.” (Shiki)

“How rude-desu wa. To foam the moment he sees someone.” (Mio)

“…That just means God-sama is not omnipotent huh, yeah.” (Makoto)

It is something that happened when we arrived at the banquet.

At the table where the Demon Generals were gathered, one of them suddenly stood up. Well, his upper half was that of a hyuman, but its lower half was that of a snake, so I’m not sure if to call it stand up… wait, that’s of no importance.

When I thought that he was staring at Mio while trembling fiercely, without saying anything, he began foaming and fell to his back.

The place turned silent for a moment.

We are the only ones who know the reason why.

He, the Demon General Reft, probably doesn’t know the reason himself. The fear inside his heart must have remained.

I thought it was only a sense of inferiority level of trauma, but it was actually at the level of PTSD.

I thought less of it because there were no memories remaining, but it seems it was still resounding in Reft-san’s heart.

And so, there’s only 3 at the Demon General seats now.

The person that’s wholeheartedly eating is someone I have not seen before, but it must be the last one of the Demon Generals.

The looks are like that of a hyuman.

Must be a demi-human, but the power itself doesn’t seem to be that much.

Maybe that means there’s more who are like Rona?

I don’t want that.

“It’s okay Mio-dono. Well prepared food is coming out in numbers, so we are being welcomed.” (Shiki)

“…I am happy about that, you know? But this and that are two different things, right? What part of me looks like a monster that makes people faint-desu ka?” (Mio)

It seems Mio is discontent about the reaction of Reft.

If someone just heard the conversation, Mio’s anger would be reasonable, but when thinking about what Mio did before, I even feel like using a slipper to hit her head as a tsukkomi.

‘In the first place, you are the one that brought him here, weren’t you?’, is the kind of tsukkomi that would come out.

And so, I have no comments.

“Raidou-dono, what do you think about tonight’s banquet? From what this one sees, it seems you are enjoying yourself.” (Zef)

“Yeah, thanks for the great seats. We are enjoying ourselves plenty.” (Makoto)

“And your followers, it seems they have something to say though.”

“Don’t mind it. Its just that she didn’t like how Reft-dono reacted, that’s all. Uhm, can I ask how he is now?” (Makoto)

“Hm, the matter of Reft spoiled her mood huh. This one is truly sorry for that. It seems like right now he is seeing a nightmare of sorts. This one has received reports that he has been moaning in agony, but there’s no danger to his life. It is not something to worry about.” (Zef)

Ah, what should I do.

Tomorrow or the day after tomorrow, I was thinking about telling them about Kaleneon while I am here, but there’s the issue with Reft, so it was hard to say it.

Why did he have to be there and at that time in specific.

Because of today, it became even more difficult to say it.

“…”

Uh, the Demon Lord seems to be looking at me.

A gentle smile as if he wanted to become my comrade, no, like a smile of someone plotting something.

I want to think that this is unjustified suspicion, but from experience, I can tell that there’s something behind that smile.

“A-Ahahaha. I am relieved that it was not anything serious. Yeah.” (Makoto)

“Right, Raidou-dono. After this, there’s still a bit of time before the main dishes come out you see. If Raidou-dono is okay with it…can you accompany me for a bit?” (Zef)

“Accompany you to where?” (Makoto)

“Over there, at the balcony. This one has drunk at a slightly fast pace you see, so this one was thinking of breathing in a bit of night breeze.” (Zef)

Outside.The balcony huh.

Well, if it’s only that.

I look at Shiki and he makes a small nod.

It seems it will be fine.

“Understood. I will gladly accompany you. My face is also a bit flushed after all.” (Makoto)

“Umu. The night view from the castle is beautiful you know. Well even if this one says so, it is practically night all the time in this capital though. Hahahaha!!” (Zef)

Being urged by the Demon Lord, I stand up from my seat.

Oh, I am slightly staggering.

The alcoholic drinks of the demon race are quite potent.

Sweet alcohol and bitter alcohol is normally on the high level.

If I get used to the alcohol in this place, I might not be able to drink the whiskey of Rotsgard as an alcoholic drink.

I might feel it tastes like juice.

If I detox myself with magic, this level of intoxication would be gone in an instant, but since I finally got drunk in good fun, that would be a waste.

I try walking a few steps and follow after the Demon Lord that didn’t seem that drunk, and leave to the balcony.

There was no one, only the Demon Lord and I.

I could hear the door closing from my back, and the bustle of the banquet felt distant.

The wind that was neither strong nor weak was pleasant.

“How is the night view of the capital?” (Zef)

“Beautiful. It may be faint, but the lights of many colors somehow feel gentle.” (Makoto)

“Gentle huh. It is an impression that wouldn’t be given by a demon. How fresh.” (Zef)

The Demon Lord laughs amused.

From what I see, he doesn’t look that drunk.

It was a laugh that came after words that felt like they had many emotions placed within.

Sobering up might have been a pretext to bring me out.

“…This one would want you to…give me your opinion of the same night view, at the day of your departure.” (Zef)

“…Okay.” (Makoto)

“Tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, Raidou-dono, this one wants you to look at the demon race and understand us. In the good and bad points.” (Zef)

Does that mean he intends to show me the strong points as well as their weak points?

And at the end, tell him how I felt.

“I think it is splendid. I can feel the wisdom of the demons and their will to live.” (Makoto)

“To tell you the truth, we weren’t trying to deceive you, but this isn’t a capital that functions as the metropolis.” (Zef)

“Eh?” (Makoto)

“Accurately speaking, it has stopped being that way.” (Zef)

“Because of the war?” (Makoto)

“That’s right. Try thinking about it. The demon race has obtained vast territory, and yet, is there really a need to have a capital in a place as harsh as this one?” (Zef)

That’s certainly true.

The current territory that the demon race possesses, the north of Elysion may be pretty vague, so the hyumans don’t have a map of it, but at the very least, there’s land that’s better suited than this.

“Yes, that’s true.” (Makoto)

“Umu, in truth, right now we have been building up a city at the coastlands that will be functioning as the capital. We are making this the center of the country. This one is also normally there.” (Zef)

Then why did you have us walk inside the blizzard for several days?

If you had a more comfortable place to be in, shouldn’t that be better?

…Is it because it is crazy far?

“‘Then why did you call us here?’, is what you are thinking, right?” (Zef)

“Uh, yes. A bit.” (Makoto)

Did it show in my face?

I am trying my best to not show my thoughts in my face though.

“It is because Raidou-dono is not using the correct method to conceal difficult emotions. If you don’t want to be seen through, you shouldn’t try erasing your emotions, but hide them. If you force yourself to erase them, it will only make it more obvious.” (Zef)

“I-I see.” (Makoto)

“That time I asked you if you had fun as well. It would be okay to just leave a smile on your face. There’s no need to force yourself to stay expressionless. Most of all, you should learn how to smile with your eyes. With that, you will be able to hide most things, and even earn others.” (Zef)

“Thank you very much for the advise.” (Makoto)

Why am I suddenly being taught by the Demon Lord here?

But…to smile properly huh.

He says it as if it’s easy, but it is actually difficult.

If I was told to do it without caring of the situation, there are times when I just can’t.

I will have to be diligent.

“This is only the basics that can’t even be considered basics. There’s no need to think that you owe me anything. Ah, the talk was about the capital, right. This capital you see, is a place that has our history piled up. And for a long time, it has been the place that’s been the demon race’s everything. That’s why, this one thought that this is the place that this one wanted to show Raidou-dono no matter what. That’s the reason why this one had you walk such a harsh journey.” (Zef)

“History…” (Makoto)

“That’s right, history. The many customs that have been born from this place are living within ourselves.” (Zef)

“…Like for example, the matter with the children?” (Makoto)

I remember the words of Shiki and try asking.

Even if there’s no blood relation, that person will be treated as a Demon Lord candidate as long as that person is promising.

“…Who did you hear that from? That’s right. That method of choosing Lords was also born from this place, is what I have been told. It seems I have subordinates with loose lips. How troublesome.” (Zef)

“No, it was one of my followers that coincidentally knew of it.” (Makoto)

Even if there’s one, I have not heard of such thing from Shiki or Mio.

I should cover for the general subordinates of his.

“Hoh~ such extensive knowledge that person has. I see, a subordinate of yours that knows of the customs of the demon race. Well, that’s surprising.” (Zef)

He doesn’t look surprised at all.

Maybe he already knows about Shiki.

The time when he was a Lich known by the name Larva, he was acquainted with Rona in some way, so the chances of her reporting about it is high.

“It was by coincidence.” (Makoto)

“Even if so. The number of customs this one was planning on showing you tomorrow, you might know them already. The amount of demons that know the hyuman society are low. The majority that know of it are from the army. In that sense, you people who are a merchants, are deepening your knowledge. That’s something worthy of respect. You truly have good subordinates.” (Zef)

“I am honored.” (Makoto)

“…Within this everlasting darkness, the demon race has endured hardship. But that will continue forever with no end to it. At this rate, the demon race will perish. The moment we understood this, we gathered our strength and waited for the opportunity. And then, this one began war. As a Lord, this one doesn’t regret it.” (Zef)

After a slight silence from my words of being honored, the Demon Lord that was looking at the distance, and without looking at me, he said words that were definitely directed at me.

That’s how I felt.

“Even if it was the property of others, the demon race needed a rich land. If we didn’t do that, we would have suffered in eternity, starve, and die. Raidou-dono, if you were to became the Lord of such a race, what would you have done? This may be hypothetical talk, but please let me hear it.” (Zef)

With a face that didn’t show it was just mere hypothetical talk, the Demon Lord looks at me.

I think that this capital… really is a land that has big meaning to the demon race.

The Demon Lord probably recollected something and has asked me this.

Is it like the Kyoto and Tokyo for the Japanese?

The capital of history in essence.

No, it has only been a few years since the capital changed. It can’t be compared to this.

It might look that way to me, but it is probably not that way.

“If it were me you say. If it were me, I would look for new frontiers before placing my hands on the belongings of someone else.” (Makoto)

“Look for land that’s not yet seen huh. Then, in the case that it shows despairing results?” (Zef)

Eh…

I went through the trouble of answering. Is it valid to return the question?

“Why would it be despairing?” (Makoto)

“Geographically speaking. There’s only inferior places left. There’s places that can’t be overcome because of the lack of craft.” (Zef)

“Then I will have us research in the crafts and advance it.” (Makoto)

“I see. Raidou-dono is saying that war should be avoided huh.” (Zef)

“War will definitely leave grudge. Thinking about the future, I don’t think this will turn into a plus.” (Makoto)

“That’s of course true. But the demon race was way too cornered. The moment we judged that it was impossible to pioneer further north, we destroyed the demi-humans that were the previous residents of this place and obtained this land.” (Zef)

The place that you decided to steal…was this?!

Just what kind of wretched place were the demons living in before?

The Goddess as well, she is as evil as always.

I really continue to think that I should give her a good punch at that face of hers.

“I-I see.” (Makoto)

“Ah, and not leaving any grudge behind.” (Zef)

“Eh, but…” (Makoto)

“Slaughtered them all. If we take care of everyone, there will be no grudges left. It may be an inane plan, but at that time, that’s how we saved our race.” (Zef)

That’s certainly true. If they don’t leave a single enemy behind, there won’t be grudges left.

They really are through.

“…”

“The answer may be different depending on the person, but the foundation of the demon race is without doubt ruled by the principle of strength. If this one has to say it without any ornate words, it would be: survival of the fittest. If possible, this one doesn’t want to show you that part of us, but if we are to continue our relationship, the sooner the better. That’s how this one thought. In the time you are here, you will witness the customs that are created by this principle, and its complications.” (Zef)

So he is telling me that they will face us seriously.

It is certainly true that showing one’s dirty side is hard to do.

…It is scary to do.

“But it was slightly unexpected. From what this one has felt, Raidou-dono is someone that has quite the power. Hyumans are not a race that originally possess such high power. In other words, Raidou-dono has faced that much difficulties in life. And those kind of people, the people that have power will wish for more power and authority, that’s how they end up thinking. Honestly speaking, this one didn’t expect you to avoid war to that extent.” (Zef)

“Thinking of avoiding war, is that so weird?” (Makoto)

“For you merchants, it is also a chance to support your Lords. Of course, it is also a chance to gain huge profits, you know?” (Zef)

“I…don’t think of gaining huge profits from the war.” (Makoto)

“…But when you were having a conversation with this one and the children, you said something that was akin to saying: ‘I will be gaining profits from the war, but you can’t complain about it’, though?” (Zef)

I didn’t say anything that meant that.

Where did he pick it up in that way?

Ah, that huh.

The talk that even if I oppose them, it will not be because I am trying to be their enemies but because of interest, or something like that?

But that was not intended in that way.

“No, that’s a misunderstanding. I am not thinking of participating in the war itself after all.” (Makoto)

“Rona was suffering a headache from that. Saying this is not what he said last time, that Raidou-dono might be intending to turn war into a business.” (Zef)

“Like I am saying…” (Makoto)

“It’s fine. It’s enough to hear those words of yours. Just like what Raidou-dono says, that’s Rona’s misunderstanding.

“We still have the time to understand each other. This one thinks that it is fine to slowly know of each other as we advance. Without hurrying.” (Zef)

“Thank you very much” (Makoto)

Stopping my words with his hand, the Demon Lord understood what I tried to say.

I’m glad.

It is truly a misunderstanding after all.

I am glad it didn’t end up in us being at cross purposes.

Right, if it’s now…

There’s no people around, only the Demon Lord and I.

On their side there’s only the Demon Lord; in my side it would be best to have Shiki and Mio by my side, but thinking about it, the other party is a Lord-sama. In reality, a situation that fits such criteria would be hard.

He seems to be an understandable person, and from that conversation just now, it seems he has his own thoughts about the demon race stealing land.

(Shiki, do you have time?) (Makoto)

I call Shiki with thought transmission.

(Waka-sama? It looks like you are speaking with the Demon Lord but, is there some sort of problem?) (Shiki)

(No, its not that. You see, right now the atmosphere makes it possible to talk about Kaleneon. Is it okay to tell him?) (Makoto)

(…Right. The chances of us speaking with the Demon Lord will most likely not be that many in the future. If it’s at this time, it would not turn in a debt. Just that, when you explain the situation, I think that it would be faster if you don’t mention the Ansland sisters being the reason, or about Asora’s matters.) (Shiki)

(But then the only reason left would be my parents. Wouldn’t that be bad? Isn’t it better to touch about the subject of Eva and Ruria’s circumstances…) (Makoto)

(If you speak about that, it could be taken as siding with the hyumans and reclaiming Kaleneon. Taking the side of the hyumans also means opposing the demon race. In terms of result, that action helps the heroes in a sense, so it is better for ‘us all’ to not increase our image of being the ally of hyumans.) (Shiki)

(I-I see) (Makoto)

Now that I think about it, he does have a point.

It is only in terms of result, but our actions help the hyumans more than the demons.

I had no underlying intentions of doing that though.

Looking only at the results, if I tell them that I have reclaimed Kaleneon because hyumans asked me to…would be bad.

Yeah, it would be bad.

(In that case, it would be better to just tell them that it was the homeland of Waka-sama’s parents, and that’s why you took it back, which would let us earn more that way. For the demon race, it would be like giving them information that Waka-sama’s parents were from Kaleneon. Who knows in what way they will take that information. For our side, it is not information that would trouble us.) (Shiki)

(Understood. Then I will be doing that.) (Makoto)

(Don’t mind it. Also, the Demon Generals and the other people are beginning to worry about your situation there. When you see the chance, wrap things up and return. Ah right, I almost forgot. There’s also the matter of Reft. At the very least, tell him that Waka-sama didn’t participate in the attack. Right…tell him that Waka-sama’s subordinates went on a rampage for your sake, or something like that please. Mio-dono and I will deal with it if anything happens later.) (Shiki)

(Thanks. Then after telling him this, I will be returning.) (Makoto)

I cut off the thought transmission.

The Demon Lord has not detected the thought transmission.

I have hidden it perfectly…I think.

The Demon Lord is looking at the night view with his hands on the railing.

“…Fuh~ No good. This one might have spoken a bit too much. Having our guest feeling the night breeze all this time, is something that should not be done. Should we go back, Raidou-dono? I thank you for accompanying me.” (Zef)

“Uhm, Demon Lord-sama. There’s something I have to tell you. Can I have a bit of your time?” (Makoto)

“This one invited you here. If there’s something Raidou-dono has to say, this one will definitely listen.” (Zef)

“The demon race lost a territory recently, right?” (Makoto)

“…! Yeah. Close to the meeting point with Raidou-dono and the others, there was a country named Kaleneon in the past. That one.” (Zef)

The expression of the Demon Lord showed the most surprise he has shown till now.

Okay, let’s say it.

“That’s something we did.” (Makoto)

“!!! Raidou-dono, do you understand what you are saying by that?” (Zef)

Narrowing his eyes, the Demon Lord takes off all that amiable atmosphere and asks for confirmation.

It is alright. Everything that has to be spoken has already been arranged in my head.

Don’t be intimidated.

If it’s about Kaleneon, I definitely hold responsibility for it.

I won’t run away from it.

“Yes. Us -Kuzunoha Company- took Kaleneon from the hands of the demon race.” (Makoto)

“…Let’s hear the reason. There’s obviously one, right? This one hopes that you won’t say this was for the sake of hyumans.” (Zef)

“It was for my sake.” (Makoto)

“Raidou-dono’s sake?” (Zef)

“Yes. Kaleneon is…the homeland of my parents. In the past, my parents tied their bond there. For me, Kaleneon is like my second homeland.” (Makoto)

“…”

“Well even if I say that, I wasn’t thinking about recovering the land of Kaleneon which was already right in the middle of demon race territory. Just that…” (Makoto)

“Just that?” (Zef)

“My subordinates, thinking of me, took back the aforementioned land. The Kaleneon that they had given to me, I received it.” (Makoto)

“Is that something your two subordinates, Mio and Shiki, did? Or were there other factors involved?” (Zef)

Sharp eyes that tried to see through me.

There was no hostility.

But that was actually fearsome.

He is hiding his emotions just like he told me before.

With an emotionless face that reveals no emotion, he simply cross-examines me.

“I can’t say. No matter who was involved, the Kuzunoha Company moved, and I received the fruits of it. Since I received it, I hold the responsibility. I used power…to take away Kaleneon.” (Makoto)

“…Kukuku. By the principle of power huh. It is certainly true that it is the principle of the demon race but…seriously, it is not a subject that should be said in this place, without doubt. There was a Demon General at that place and it was in the territory of the demon race, right in the middle of it. No matter how much power that can’t be overlooked you possess, is it something that can be recaptured by a company independently? Sorry but, this one is in chaos right now. But first, this one wants to ask you one thing. Why did you spare Reft?” (Zef)

“I later learned that that person was a Demon General. He was injured, so I had him treated and returned him to the demon race territory. I don’t know the reason why his memories are a jumble though.” (Makoto)

“Because he is a Demon General huh. If this one had to choose between Kaleneon and Reft, this one would choose Reft. In that sense, should this one be grateful?” (Zef)

“No, that is…” (Makoto)

After leaking a chuckle, the Demon Lord makes a mysterious farsighted expression and a faint smile surfaced.

“But you got me. This one probably won’t be able to sleep tonight. Even though this one had drunk quite a bit and was in a good mood.” (Zef)

“…”

“If the talk is over…this time for sure let’s return, Raidou-dono.” (Zef)

“Demon Lord-sama, this talk…” (Makoto)

“If you are going to say: ‘Don’t tell anyone’, that’s an impossible deal. This one doesn’t know if this one will be able to swallow all this. Also, this isn’t a talk that an individual can keep to himself. Well in the first place, it is strange to refer a Lord as an ‘individual’ though.” (Zef)

He said it before me.

As I thought, it is impossible to ask him to keep it to himself huh.

But it would look bad to stay silent here so…

“No, this is something that I willingly spoke out because I understood the personality of Demon Lord-sama. That’s what I wanted to tell you.” (Makoto)

“This one will take your evaluation to heart. Now then, let’s go back.” (Zef)

“Thanks.” (Makoto)

The Demon Lord opens the door, and we return to the banquet.

A warm atmosphere envelops my body, and when I returned to my seat, I was welcomed by a huge amount of food.

Shiki who knew of the situation, had a face as if saying ‘good work’; Mio gave me her impressions of the food and gave me recommendations with a wide smile.

I-I was somehow able to say it.

Today there’s only eat and sleep left, so that’s a small blessing.

If tomorrow on is like this, my body might not be able to take it.

◇◆◇◆Makoto’s Dream◇◆◇◆

A dream.

I could tell from the atmosphere.

After being entertained by the banquet of the demon race, we returned to our room. Then, we locked the room and went to sleep in Asora.

Today I didn’t feel like doing anything more.

The moment I returned to my own room, I quickly went down.

Last time it was my old self that seemed to have created a desert. And before that one…it was a dream where I almost killed Hibiki.

Hm, this is bad.

It feels like things are getting messed up.

Dreams like a strange kingdom and desert.

I remember a bit about the people that appeared in it, but the other details are getting foggy.

Dreams are not something that can be easily remembered so it can’t be helped, but these chain of events feel like they are trying to tell me something and it bothers me.

This is already the third time after all.

When I wake up, I will ask Tomoe to archive them.

Anyways…the mist is quite thick.

To the level that it looks like smoke.

Where am I…I mean, the me in this dream.

When I thought of this…I found him.

“…”

It isn’t as old as last time.

Just that, it looks like I have an incredibly troubled expression.

I don’t know if I have had these much emotion shown in my face before.

I was sitting at a bench.

Aside from that, I can’t see anything else.

It’s kinda ironic to say this in a dream but, this place doesn’t feel real.

Also, it bothers me that there’s no other person here aside from me.

“How long has it been since we have talked just the two of us, Waka.”

“…Tomoe.” (Makothree)

Eh?

I was surprised by the voice.

Before I noticed, the shadow of a person appeared at the bench that I was sitting on.

Ah, so this strange place was prepared by Tomoe.

Or more like, there haven’t been any of my followers or the people of Asora in these dreams before.

“That kind of expression is…no, this isn’t something that I should be saying.” (Tomoe)

“You are the reason after all.” (Makothree)

“Yeah.” (Tomoe)

“Tomoe, I…” (Makothree)

He is using ‘ore’.

If I remember correctly, there was one dream where I used ‘ore’ as well.

Yeah, even though it is me -no- maybe it’s because it is me huh.

The sense of disparity is incredible.

“Waka, please don’t say further.” (Tomoe)

“I haven’t said anything yet.” (Makothree)

“You were mostly going to apologize, right? It is unnecessary.” (Tomoe)

“…Even through the end, there’s no rivalling you huh.” (Makothree)

The end?

“It is something I wished for. At the very least, I have no regrets. Please.” (Tomoe)

“…”

“Being unable to reincarnate is something I was already prepared for when I made a pact with Waka. Also, there’s Mio at that side as well. She may not be as fun as being with Waka, but being together with her doesn’t bore me.” (Tomoe)

“If I had…If I had been stronger, do you think this wouldn’t have happened?” (Makothree)

“…No. Even if Waka had obtained the power to overwhelm that Goddess, there’s no knowing if the result would have changed. No one would know.” (Tomoe)

“But at the very least, I wouldn’t have done something as unsightly as exchanging the two heroes and Mio, right?” (Makothree)

What’s this?

Mio was here too.

And she is not here anymore. Is that what he is trying to say?

“But the Goddess might have come out faster. If that happened, not only Mio, Waka might have died at that moment as well.” (Tomoe)

“Even so!!” (Makothree)

“Everything has already happened. Waka, you have chosen your own path. We obeyed it. And so, we fought with a God and are now here. I said this before but, I…no, Mio as well, didn’t regret anything. Something like: ‘If we hadn’t met Waka’, has not crossed my mind one bit, you know.” (Tomoe)

“…”

“It was truly fun. A lot more fun than living eternally in a life without path.That’s why Waka should also look forward, and walk your own path. All your worries, I will be taking them here. When you cross the river of styx, I will return them to you.” (Tomoe)

“My path huh.” (Makothree)

“Yes. It is not like I can see through everything, so I don’t have the right to say this all high-and-mighty though.” (Tomoe)

“Even when you are speaking to me in this fashion?” (Makothree)

In this fashion…

What is it?

For some reason, a strange and bad feeling is clinging onto me.

“…Yeah. If you want to hear, I will tell you but… just promise me, *you will not drag us along anymore*.” (Tomoe) <She is telling him to stop burdening himself with their memories.>

“You are so unfair, Tomoe. You who had no other worries aside from period dramas and Japanese customs, is having worries? Are you telling me this knowing that I want to hear it? Understood, I will walk forward. It is only a bit more after all. I will look at the other side when I finish climbing.” (Makothree)

The mouth of the hung down head had a smile surface.

The corners of the mouth were upwards, but it looked like a made-up smile.

I could somehow tell that he wasn’t truly smiling.

“Then…since the time Waka had decided on his path, I steadily began to think this way. That maybe…If maybe there was another person aside from me and Mio who supports Waka…” (Tomoe)

“Are you referring to a follower? But I don’t have any other follower aside from you and Mio.” (Makothree)

“Mio and I might have been a bit too possessive. We did receive equal affection, but we were negative about having a new follower.” (Tomoe)

“…I can’t imagine having a follower aside from you two. If I had to force myself to put out a candidate, maybe Zef. Another one could be Sand Wave? Root? Well, the candidates would be them.” (Makothree)

“Zef huh. He might be a good one. Umu, if it were a man, we might not have minded much.” (Tomoe)

“A third follower huh. That’s quite the talk there.” (Makothree)

No, and Shiki?

Shiki… is not here?

“I don’t mind if it’s 3 or 4, but well, I had such a weak-willed thinking.” (Tomoe)

“Even you think about ‘maybe’s’ huh. I am slightly relieved to hear that.” (Makothree)

“Well then, it is already time to say goodbye. I made this kind of setup just in case, but I am glad that even someone like me was able to serve as a regret reliever.” (Tomoe)

“Tomoe…” (Makothree)

Oh, oh…

Tomoe and I kissed.

And it doesn’t feel like this is the first time.

We are used to it.

I can’t believe it.

From all this, this is the most surprising.

With Tomoe huh.

I do think of her as someone dependable, but she is more of a brother, and I… don’t see her as a woman.

No well, she is indeed a beautiful woman though.

“…Please forgive this blunder of mine. My body has been blown away without remains, so I unconsciously did something like this.” (Tomoe)

Her body without remains…

As I thought, this Tomoe is…

There was the shock of that kiss, but I could tell that something even colder and heavier than that was being lodged in my stomach.

It hurts.

Tomoe was smiling all the time, and as if slipping into the thick mist, she dispersed like sand to the wind.

She disappeared.

Don’t joke around.

Tomoe and Mio as well!

As if they would be killed by the Goddess!!

Hey, what in the hell did you do?!

Just what kind of stupid path did you take to lose them both?!

And Shiki?! What happened to Shiki?!

Damn it. I don’t understand the situation, so the emotions that have nowhere to go create more and more questions.

The surroundings of the me who was alone now, showed an instant change.

The mist that had grown thin was whirling, and disappeared with me at the centre of it.

Eh, this place is…

“Head, I am entering.”

A room I remember, and a familiar voice.

Without waiting for my reply, the owner of the voice enters the room.

As I thought.

When I saw his figure, I immediately thought this; Demon Lord Zef.

“Zef-san.” (Makothree)

“The matter of Tomoe-dono… is regrettable. But even so, I have come here to have a word with you.” (Zef)

“It is alright now. I had Tomoe sermon me just a moment ago.” (Makothree)

With a loose face, I smile at the Demon Lord.

It feels like I am quite close with Zef-san.

“…By Tomoe-dono?” (Zef)

“Yeah. Seriously, she is a worrywart. She comes to sermon me even after death.” (Makothree)

“…”

“And, how are the preparations?” (Makothree)

“Completely done. We are waiting for you, Head.” (Zef)

“I see. Zef-san might have forgiven me, but at this rate, I feel like Rona and Sari will get noisy.” (Makothree)

“With Head’s position, it can’t be helped. There’s no choice but to accept it.” (Zef)

I see.

The dream’s me has sided with the demon race.

So this is that kind of dream huh.

“Thinking of it like somebody else’s business.” (Makothree)

“It is in truth somebody else’s business after all. You have finally taken off what was burdening you, so I will have you take a break.” (Zef)

The Demon Lord looks a lot younger than what my impression of him was.

No, his outward appearance hasn’t changed much, but his atmosphere is kinda different.

“Well, I understand how you feel, but taking a break will have to come after finishing one job more.” (Makothree)

“Fuh, I am aware. Now then, when you leave the room, I will have you change gears, Head. First, we have to encourage the soldiers.” (Zef)

The Demon Lord opens the door of the room and waits for me.

As if complying to his words, I walk there and leave to the corridor with the Demon Lord.

Looking at the ceiling, I take a deep breath and exhaled.

“Let’s go, Zef. As a Demon General, I will have you work plenty.” (Makothree)

“As you wish. As the new Demon Lord, I will serve you with this life of mine.” (Zef)

“The enemy is the Goddess. Do you have the resolve?” (Makothree)

“For a long time. Since the moment I was born a demon.” (Zef)

Demon Lord.

I climbed through the steps of the demon race and became a Demon Lord huh.

Not only that, it seems like it is before stepping against the Goddess.

This me is a lot further than me.

But…by sacrificing Tomoe and Mio.

I clench my teeth.

Looking at the figure and expression of the me who has walked further beyond, I could tell that I was feeling anger.

At that moment, the world creaks.

The scenery of the two walking the corridor had fine cracks appearing.

A displeasing sound as if glass was scraping each other resounded heavily.    

I woke up from my dream.

◇◆◇◆◇◆◇◆

It wasn’t as if I woke up because I was having a nightmare, or because I was driven out of my dream.

I silently open my eyes.

As usual, it is late at night.

Like the saying goes, the time when plants also sleep.

Don’t joke around.

That’s not a precognitive dream.

Because they are walking a path that is clearly different from the real me.

But ‘if I cooperate with the demon race, it will lead to that result’; there’s the chance of something close to that happening.

I have been thinking that the dreams I have had were not just simple dreams.

Tomoe. I should ask Tomoe to record my dreams.  

‘The memories don’t fade, the people just forget about it’, is what she said.

In that case, I can reproduce everything including the previous dreams, and check them out.

…It really is no joke.

I don’t want to become the Demon Lord, and I don’t want to lose Tomoe and Mio.

In the first place, counting the two previous dreams that are starting to become foggy, there’s too much bad aftertaste!

I send a thought transmission to Tomoe.

Even if she is sleeping, I intended to wake her up.

(Waka? Weren’t you sleeping?) (Tomoe)

(You were awake huh. I have something I wanted to consult you about. Is it okay to do it right now?) (Makoto)

I thought that she was definitely sleeping.

What was she doing this late in the night?

(Understood. Then I will head to your room.) (Tomoe)

(No, I will go to you. Are you in your room?) (Makoto)

It is not like I am lonely, but for some reason, I wanted to see Tomoe.

(No, I’m outside. At the forest on the right of the mansion.) (Tomoe)

(Understood.) (Makoto)

Hearing the location of Tomoe, I head there.

The forest huh.

I also go there sometimes to shoot my bow, but I don’t normally see Tomoe there.

There’s not much distance, so I arrive soon.

“Tomoe, what are you doing?” (Makoto)

“Of course, training. Even if I say this, it is more like solving a puzzle.” (Tomoe)

“Solving a puzzle huh.” (Makoto)

Tomoe was at the front of one tree.

With her hands at the katana’s handle, she had her body slightly low.

I can tell that it is the stance to pull out the katana.

But the distance between her and the tree is too short.

The pommel is hitting the trunk.

With that, you wouldn’t be able to draw in the first place.

Is that a new type of meditation?

“Drawing from this stance seems to serve as training.” (Tomoe)

“Drawing you say. Isn’t that practically zero-distance? Even if you force draw it, won’t the handle just hit the tree?” (Makoto)

“Yes. Several trees have already fallen. That’s probably not the correct way.” (Tomoe)

Of course it is not.

A person wouldn’t normally drop a tree for trying to forcefully draw a sword.

Just what kind of handle is that.

“Who did you hear that from?” (Makoto)

“I was taught by Hibiki. It seems to be a foundation of the katana.” (Tomoe)

“Then won’t we get it after looking at her memories?” (Makoto)

“Waka, if I do that, I feel like it would go against the point of training.” (Tomoe)

“You are serious in the weirdest of places. I like that though.” (Makoto)

“Just training with the katana is fun, so it doesn’t faze me. Even if today is no good, even if tomorrow is no good, even if the day after tomorrow is no good; I will do my best every day. Well even if I say this, I intended to finish the training for today, but since I received a thought transmission from Waka, I continued for a bit more. And, what was the business you had?” (Tomoe)

Wiping her sweat, Tomoe laughs with a satisfied expression.

Uh, it reminds me of the smile of the dream Tomoe.

Stop it.

That was…a dream.

Not reality.

That’s right, I won’t let it become reality.

That’s why I came to meet Tomoe.

“I wanted to check a dream of mine for a bit you see. Dreams also enter in the category of memories right? Can you check them?” (Makoto)

“Of course. Is it recent?” (Tomoe)

“Yeah, around ten days ago. I think there’s a day when I was resting at Asora. I am counting on you for that.” (Makoto)

“Well then,excuse me while I give it a look.” (Tomoe)

“Don’t look at anything unnecessary, okay?” (Makoto)

“I know.” (Tomoe)

Tomoe’s hand touches my forehead.

Fuh~

Anyways, it might have been something important.

With this, I have one thing less to worry about.

Tomoe closes her eyes and searches my memories.

But to place the handle at the tree and draw huh.

Kuma-sensei who taught me the basics of Iai, no wait, I haven’t been taught by sensei, not even once.

… Maybe I just didn’t advance to that stage yet.

Is it because I wasn’t following the lessons well?

Tomoe said she heard it from Hibiki-senpai, but now that I think about it, there’s no training in kendo for drawing, right?

Was senpai learning swordsmanship as well?

In that case, she is more fearsome than I thought.

“…Waka.” (Tomoe)

“Ah, did you finish?” (Makoto)

In the time that I was thinking, it seems she had finished.

Okay, this is no time to be sleeping, so I will look at them right now.

“For around 3 days, there were nights when you didn’t have a dream but… there wasn’t any specially strange dream.” (Tomoe)

“Eh?” (Makoto)

“Maybe in those 3 days you had a such a deep sleep that you didn’t have any dreams?” (Tomoe)

“No, there’s no way. Ehm, at the day I met Hibiki-senpai… also, at the day when I went to the Empire. Also today, just a moment ago.” (Makoto)

“I didn’t find any. What kind of dreams?” (Tomoe)

“In one I was about to kill senpai, at another I made a desert, then I also became a Demon Lord… uhm, Tomoe and the others were dead.” (Makoto)

“…It certainly does sound like a suggestive dream.” (Tomoe)

“Are there really none? Memories of me seeing those dreams.” (Makoto)

“Yes. Totally.” (Tomoe)

No way.

I certainly did see it and I am able to tell its contents right now.

I saw them, and yet, a dream I didn’t see? I feel more and more that those dreams are not mere dreams.

But Tomoe doesn’t seem to be lying.

What’s going on?

“…Understood. Sorry Tomoe. To ask you for something so late at night.” (Makoto)

“No, don’t worry about it. Waka, if it’s okay with you, I can try searching as many times as you want.” (Tomoe)

“No, it is not like pushing will do anything. I will return to my room and note down as much information I remember. I might ask of you again but, at that time, I am counting on you.” (Makoto)

“I am sorry for not being of help. Just that, Waka…” (Tomoe)

“Hm?” (Makoto)

“We won’t easily die. We are Waka’s followers after all. I want you to believe in that.” (Tomoe)

“…Yeah, thanks. Good night.” (Makoto)

“Yeah, have a good sleep. I as well…!! If pushing doesn’t work, maybe pulling…” (Tomoe)

“Hm, Tomoe?” (Makoto)

“M-Maybe!! It was that?! Umu, it might be!!” (Tomoe)

“…Tomoe? Hey~” (Makoto)

“Waka!!” (Tomoe)

“What? You won’t sleep?” (Makoto)

“I won’t! As expected, Waka is really different!! Umu, there’s worth in trying! Sorry Waka, I was thinking about going back with you, but I will be training for a bit more!!” (Tomoe)

“Ah…okay. Then, I will be going first.” (Makoto)

“Rest well!!” (Tomoe)

Well, it didn’t seem like a bad agitation so…let’s leave it.

I also have things to do here. Need to write down the contents of the dream.

The first two are kinda hard to say, but the one just now is still fine…I think.

Okay, let’s return to my room.

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0 thoughts on “Chapter 186: The Banquet’s Night at the Dark Capital

  1. Hum…That was an interesting chapter.

    First, the most important thing : “Zef huh. He might be a good one. Umu, if it were a man, we might not have minded much.” …So that’s where my curvy, alluring, female demon-lord was hiding !? Wait for me, I’m coming to you !

    Second : “Raidou-dono, if you were to became the Lord of such a race, what would you have done? This may be hypothetical talk, but please let me hear it”. AHAHAHAHAHAHAH ! Hypothetical, my butt !
    Depending on his answers, you were definitely about to hand him over your seat ! Too bad, after this dream there’s no way that he joins any side ! AHAHAHAHAHAHAH !

    Talking about those dreams, they really are a huge asset. Even I, would find it a pain in the ass, to confront.
    What’s wrong Bug-sama ? Don’t tell me a little hyuman made you cry out loud ! AHAHAHAHAHAHAH !

    Thanks for your work !

  2. Thanks for the chapter Reigokai!

    Interesting chapter. The demon lord seems like a bro and that dream, a hint of how things might have happened if Shiki didn’t join? Without him acting as a knowledgable advisor and restraint for Tomoe/Mio’s recklessness, he ended up deciding to join the demon race after all, provoking the goddess by turning against hyumanity and costing both those two their lives. Seems like without a bro supporting him, he also had to look elsewhere for someone to depend on and chose Tomoe, with her supporting him turning into a romantic relationship in the end?
    It’s very interesting to see the different ways things could have gone. I just hope that now he has a clue that it’s not just dreams, and is taking note of the things that happened in them, he’ll be able to begin using them to his advantage. Though it might be hard if it means accepting he really could have turned out the way the Makotos in those dreams did if things had been different……

    1. Zaf is obviously a man! He is called “he” the entire time. It was BECAUSE of that dream Tomoe said it was okay to make him a 3rd follower!

      1. I like it. It nicely breaks the romance flags. Well…Tomoe wasn’t romantically in love with him in the first place. And Now…the only romance viable is one that doesn’t involve his contractees. I am happy, because I’m tired of being bound to someone= romance.

  3. If the dreams represents an alternate version. Shiki could be the linchpin of change. He has been influencing Makoto’s decision a lot agter all.

  4. Akemaste Omedeto Gozaimasu!!!
    Thnaks kai-senpai!!!
    I hope to spend another year enjoying your translations.
    I want to know what makoto will do to stop these future nebulosos, new servant?

    1. Yes these are dreams / memories from parallel worlds. As mentioned the previous chapters the pasts of these dreams are different so they won’t come to pass for him, although SIMILAR events can still happen if he makes certain decisions(he can easily decide to become demon lord if he truly wanted to, if he chooses to ally with the empire completely his Sekai can expand charm and possibly be get into a relationship with Lily).
      Also it makes sense that certain events would be the same considering they would have happened with or without him. Ex: the mutant incident in academy city was planned by the demon side as a distraction to kill the hero, this was planned way before meeting Makoto. Lily hates the goddess and wants to destroy her, she had these plans way before the heroes came and she would have gone on with them no matter who she met. Makoto’s actions is independent factor here as seen in these dreams his personality and its effects on the world vary vastly based on his past.
      If he never met the forest Onis he would not have met Shiki and have his guidance. Heck if he went to the demon side instead of the nearest human civilization, he would never had made Kuzonoha and went after the medicinal flowers of the Forest Onis.
      Speaking of inevitabilities, the goddess could have and would have abducted him to save the hyumans and heroes whenever they were in danger, but what happens could vastly change depending on his servants. If he didn’t have to protect Shiki, Makoto could have fought the goddess and be rekted. Likewise another servant could have been with him and considering their personalities, would be killed by the goddess instead of making a deal with her.

      1. So those dreams are remnants of parallel worlds? I get the full picture of the second dream but the first and third ones are a bit hard to comprehend.
        It’s clear that in every dream Makoto hates Bug and is allied with a hero or demon lord in the last one but I’m a bit lost in the context of why did that happened.
        Thanks for the explanation.

        1. Well according to the commentor’s interpretations, what happened in dream 3 was that Makoto never picked Shiki up and ended up allying with the demons.

          As a result, he waged outright war with the hyumans and got Mio and Tomoe killed by Bug. Now, as a demon lord, he’s out to finish the fight(with slight hints of being suicidal).

        1. Dream 1 is a bit more vague. I find it very doubtful that Hibiki would be able to kill Tomoe. The cold and indifferent attitude Mako-one compared to their hateful looks gave made it seem more like he was antagonizing their side.

          My personal interpretation was that Makoto was picking a fight the goddess and attacking Hibiki was just a means to an end. It’s…not really certain what happened with the followers of that world. At the very least, Mio wasn’t around to finish off Ilumgand.

      2. If those dreams are Makoto’s discarded choices then the first dream would point to Hibiki and Limia in general absorbing Makoto, using and discarding him as Hibiki’s monologue suggested and in the end exterminate Kuzunoha completely.

  5. Thanks for the translation, Reigo-senpai. I just wish that it didn’t happen five minutes after I went to sleep 😛

    So far, looks like things are going Makoto’s way. What? Were you expecting spoilers? Too bad, Spoiler-san is still recovering. You just have OhMarioWV right now 😛

      1. That’s a complete misunderstanding Zef is male.Dream-Tomoe said that because she and Mio never allowed another female follower and that isolated Makoto.

  6. Happy New Year Everyone!! and thank you Rei-san for the chapter.

    So this time it’s Shiki huh?

    The first dream’s events was avoided by the actions of Mio killing that variant guy (forgot his name).

    The second was if Makoto never met Ema, which led to Tomoe, who was the one who was the one who forced Makoto to make contracts with his other followers.

    The third one was if Makoto never met Shiki.

    So, his followers are the ones who made Makoto follow the right path.

  7. Conspiracy Time~

    Would this be Makotos from a different timelines?
    Would these things really happen?

    Tune in for a bout a ton more of chapters to find out~

    also, thanks for the chapter~

  8. Well, my current theory is that his dreams are from some future version of himself who may have gained the power to overcome the bug goddess, but ended up losing something (possibly everything) in the end even after doing so…that would at least explain who would have the kind of power to do something like that and possibly even why Tomoe could be lying to him (if that is the case). So far the dreams seem to be coming after the events though (such as after Tomoe/Mio/Shiki have joined him anyway) so they aren’t exactly warning him of anything yet, or are warning him of things that still might happen if he makes a wrong choice maybe?

    1. I think the general consensus here is that they’re just echoes of alternate realities that the 3 gods have been destroying. More than likely he’s allowed to peek in on them by said gods, whenever he dreams, as a way for them to guide/advise him.

      Also, Tomoe has no reason to lie to him about any of this. He has already experienced the visions, and has alternative ways of recording them (like writing them down, which is what he decided on).

      There was nothing in the visions for Tomoe to feel the need to betray Makoto’s trust. It also doesn’t feel like the kind of story where the author would introduce that kind of drama.

      Those 3 are his absolutely loyal servants. They have shared with him their secrets as it becomes relevant, and he has shared with them his own (kinda hard to hide anything from Tomoe, but still…).

      The only time we’ve seen them keep something from Makoto was during the Variant incident, where they kept the fact that a demi-human was a traitor. But it was because they knew that the knowledge would hurt Makoto, and knowing the true identity of a relatively minor traitor/instigator was irrelevant to Makoto or his decision making. They would have told him if he outright asked, and he himself deduced it not long after.

  9. Thanks for the chapter and happy new year!

    Friend-zoned? Really? I just don’t think he has any balls…. Better then he was fifty (ish) chapters ago, but seriously… Author-san, he’s not a delicate flower, he doesn’t need to keep his “purity” lol

  10. It seems like each of the dreams is a what if for what would happen if he hadn’t gotten each of his three followers.

    First dream – what would happen if he never met Mio. In this dream we see Illumgand would still be alive and Hibiki is evil or something?

    Second dream – what would happen if he never met Tomoe. He wouldve stuggled to get through the wasteland without having asora and gets found by the Empire.

    Third dream – what would happen if he never met Shiki. Somehow not having shiki caused him to lose everything.

    1. Holy crap, I just noticed. If the first dream had no Mio, then she never met Hibiki and established a connection to Kuzunoha.

      I wonder how that would’ve changed their relationship?

  11. Gift that susanoo and Shiva give to Makoto’s probably a method to see a record/history within akashic records. As the 3 gods said they’ve travelling around to destroy troublesome parallel worlds, Makoto “dream” is most likely the memories of Makoto within those worlds before they got destroyed by the army of heavens

  12. I knew it doing a raid and fighting a raid boss without a support is nothing short but stupid however this time now that in this worldline Makoto have Shiki who would support him and give information that they might be able to use against the Goddess , Makoto might be able to make a change and kick her good

    1. Oh wow. That just reminded me.

      Shiki was the only one of Makoto’s followers who met thr goddess, and that couldn’t have been more ideal.

      Out of the three followers, Shiki is the weakest but also best at using “prep work” as shown in his fight with Lancer. Makothree was caught unprepared and lost his girls, but this time we have Shiki for support in collecting and using information.

      1. Yep, after encountering the Bugdess and experience unnatural fear towards her. He might be experimenting and creating a god-slaying spell or enchant that would be given to Makoto’s arrow or bow that would serve as the final hit that would kill the BUGdess and usurp her throne

      2. The most dangerous forces in existence are magic users who know their craft, and have time to prepare no matter how much raw power they have. Shiki proved that when he killed Lancer, something that should’ve been impossible for a mere lich.

  13. I missed this chapter…Seems like even I, had my full yesterday ! AHAHAHAHAHAHAH !!

    It kinda sound weird, but I wish to all the bunch in this site a Happy New Year ! And what could be happier than a Year full of ecchi, releases and fun !? AHAHAHAHAHAHAH !

    Translator-sama, thanks for your work last year, I will continue to count on you this year too ! AHAHAHAHAHAHAH !

    So…KAMPAAII !!

    …Oy, I’m starting to see the bottom of my cup !

      1. Oh !? Gods sure know how to drink ! Well, I’ll accompany you ! AHAHAHAHAHAHAH !
        I’ve brought a new barrel that Satou gave me !

  14. YAYYY TOMOE SENPAI ITS BACK ON TRACK hahaha thx to this chapter its easy to notice that tomoe just letting mio have makoto for herself its a lie since she also hhahaha

    also that dream was when taking demon side by being swindled by rona for not having shiki to warn him all her plans ? somehow i think it was the reason

    also i hope this makes makoto takes consideration of adding more servants. i really want to see at least 2 or 3 more he really needs a loli child member/ a bustiful oneesan and the legendary imouto chara !!! well that probably wont happen though but i want to dream in the end haha

    1. “its easy to notice that tomoe just letting mio have makoto for herself its a lie since she also hhahaha”

      Tomoe never agreed to anything like that. The last time we saw her having that kind of conversation with Mio, we learned that the agreement they made was that Mio gets Makoto first, but that they’ll share afterwards. Tomoe might not have been 100% happy with that arrangement, but on the other hand, she didn’t mind it that much either.

      As for the dream. Yeah, it’s possible that without Shiki, Makoto got played by Rona, and eventually ended up with the demons.

      On the other hand, without Shiki, I just don’t see him even going to Academy City. Sure, he may have had such plans before meeting Shiki, but I feel that he’d either end up not going, or the plan got derailed after he was kidnapped by the bug, while traveling there.

      Remember, it was Shiki who arranged pretty much everything for Makoto, including having him enter as a substitute teacher, rather than a student. So, it’s possible that after Makoto made his was back after the lake incident, he decided to just give up on the Academy, and somehow ended up falling in with the demons, because he now REALLY had it in with the goddess, for messing everything up for him.

      In other words, in that reality, he might not have met Rona until after joining with the demons.

  15. WHOAAA!!!!!!!! Thanks for the new year gift, Regokai sensei you deserve 1000 virgins as a reward for such an amazing feat, really big chapter by the way. Well at least Makothree got some game, I’m pretty sure that he did more than kiss with Tomoe and Mio in that dream sequence. Poor Demon King now he realizad that not only Raidou is of worry even his subordinates are out of scope, and Shiki existence is show his great relevance in his absence in thet reality.

  16. Happy new tear! Thank you for the chapter! Lol i think Tomoe is lieying and concealed the thruth. Moreover, she become more eager to chase makoto lol.

    1. I, on the other hand, understood it as her suddenly getting a new idea for how to practice what she was trying to do, before Makoto dropped by. And that it simply came from Makoto’s words.

      I don’t see any reason for Tomoe to lie here.

      Especially not because she might have gotten embarrassed, or suddenly realizedher feeling from seeing the dream. Based on earlier chapters, she already knows how she feels about Makoto, as she had those kinds of talks with Mio. Also, despite how she may look, she’s been around for a long time. She’s not an innocent little flower.

      1. Haha lets see how the story will be told. IMO Tomoe can lie if it the lie will bring benefit to his waka or herself. If i not mistaken, Tomoe was already concealing some things to Makoto which bring Makoto agony when he know about it.

        Sorry i forget about what, but from that point of the plot, i always put Tomoe reactions with grain of salt.

      2. Tomoe is like scheming older sister to me, so her motif is always priorities about her waka or her own benefits (fun) above all. So lets just agree to disagree here.

        For me, it is much more fun if Tomoe is scheming how to get Makoto’s love secretly than she only doing it as the text told us.

  17. Thanks and happy new year! I don’t like those dreams, they all seem to be in a future that will never happen. For the last one, he lost against the goddess once while he is already strong enough to give a hard time to athena. But i wonder who send those dreams to him.

    1. Isn’t it was given by the god from earth when they were visiting Raidou. I think it was the ability to erase the other paralel worlds that happen because the summoned heroes earning new skill, someone says before that there is no other paralel worlds before.
      And the gods gave Raidou some ability but didnt tell him the function

      1. I think he is erasing those other parallel worlds. He can see what could have happened if something went different and so he can deny/limit his possible actions to avoid doing the same mistakes.
        This in a way limits his possibilities and potential (that things that allow humans to create parallel worlds) and might also reduce/erase those accidentally created parallel worlds.
        He knows what could be the result of chosing that path and if he dislikes it he will avoid it, particularly sealing/closing that path and its results.

        I think he get the power from those visiting gods to see the different parallel worlds and to erase them if they seem to lead to a bad ending. After all Suzanoo and Shiva are gods of destruction.

  18. more parallel dreams huh. and what’s with the ending?! i’m sure Tomoe saw Makoto’s dream but kept silence. i know she saw them kissing that’s why she muttered those pushing and pulling. yeah i’m sure of it. absolutely. probably.

    thanks for the chap

    1. There’s no reason for Tomoe to lie here.

      If she were able to see those dreams, I feel she might tease Makoto about it instead. Though she’d probably feel some dread in showing the recordings to Mio. Mostly because it would be a pain to deal with a sulking giant spider.

      I think it’s just that at the end she had en epiphany in regards to her katana training. Specifically the practice of drawing it, that she was doing just before.

      1. Maybe that was the power bestowed upon makoto by susanoo and the other? To help him see his path & the consequences… Just maybe.

      2. I dunno, Tomoe (Lover version) mentioned that Makoto gave them equal affection. There’s also that agreement where Tomoe gets title “best girl” as long as she gets Waka’s virginity.

        It’s just as possible for Makothree to have been with Dream Mio too.

    2. Ah. I get it now. Instead of only PULLING the katana away from you, you also have to PULL the sheath back at the same time. This allows you to make a sharper swing and cut at shorter distances. I think that was where that was going.

    3. I think that these dreams are attacks from the goddess to control Makoto’s action. Such as not to kill the two hero’s and not to become the new Demon King. Thanks for the chapter and Happy New Year.

  19. Happpy new year !

    I don’t believe Tomoe for a second.She saw everything and is currently a little bit jealous of her alternative version.

  20. Thanks for the chapter!! Everybody happy new year!!!
    By the way.. I think those dreams are alternative timelines, remember the god that wanted to give hibiki-sempai a power of time travel?… now that I think about it maybe that’s the new power that makoto has… maybe…

    And Reigokai I wish you a very wealthy, healthy and a very VERY happy new 2017!!

  21. Yeah, I figured they wouldn’t be accessible. Shame though, Tomoe would definitely watch the kiss on repeat otherwise.

    I wonder if looking at his memories immediately after waking up would suffice though? At least for a summary.

  22. thank you so much! Happy New Year!?
    In the end, he better be sided with no one but be a ruler of his own. Yeah… I mean he already have asora (that can already be called a country) right?
    Would there be a dream where he sided with the dragon king?

    1. would prefer to see a happy end dream, where he just completly pulled out to life only in asora xD
      Like him, beeing extremely old with a long white beard serounded by his still young looking harem or his Children and grandchildren, telling them, how he gave a shit about that rotten world and deciding for the fun life with his harem, making children all day long.

  23. Thank you for your hard work Reigokai-san. It’s funny that I am waiting for today not for the new year but more for this chapter.
    Now for the story, it is great to see Makoto and Demon Lord’s talk in private. It’s the private talk of the VVIPs after all. And I am glad that the matters of Kaleneon could be solved in a peaceful way.
    About the dreams, I am curious whether Tomoe actually could see the dream or not. I would prefer her to actually can see it, but choose to not reveal it though. I wonder how many dreams more would Makoto sees.

  24. I say again….This lines pissed me off but since we know Tomoe is still trying to have makoto love her its still tolerable 😀

    “Tomoe and I kissed.

    And it doesn’t feel like this is the first time.

    We are used to it.

    I can’t believe it.

    From all this, this is the most surprising.

    With Tomoe huh.

    I do think of her as someone dependable, but she is more of a brother, and I… don’t see her as a woman.”

    This last line pissed me off. LoL

    thanks for the chapter

  25. These dreams are the fall out of different paths that this version of Makoto didn’t take or more to the point the outcomes of meetings he didn’t have. First dream he didn’t meet Mio so the mutant wasn’t disposed of leading to the fight with Hibiki, the second was what happened if he didn’t meet Ema so he didn’t even meet Tomoe no worthwhile people on his side led to him getting mixed up with trashero and Trashime, this time around he never met Shiki so he was taken in by Rona and became a Demon Lord losing Tomoe and Mio to the Bugs backlash… These alternate timelines are being destroyed by Makoto and the last gasp of each is shown to our current Makoto. Or more the crux moment that would’ve spawned more timelines which now that I think about it is more correct.

  26. It seems like our Makoto has the ability of Death flag’s route scoutting ( subconcous/dream type) or something like that.
    I wish i had that ability to see some big events before it actually happend, though.

  27. My theory;
    What makoto sees, is not a dream.
    He sees it in his present time.
    He travels or sees it in a parallel world.
    And he does not dream what he is seeing at the present moment, while making the decision in the parallel world.
    That’s why Tomoe finds nothing. (It’s not a dream)
    Makoto Travels to the parallel world and sees himself.

    1. But if that’s the case, he should still have a memory of that experience.

      The issue here, I think, is that these dreams are information without origin. Makoto doesn’t “experience” anything before gaining this information, so there’s no memory of it.

  28. KAMPAI!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
    what I drink is just water though. I don’t even drink orange juice normally.

    whom did makoto talk to in the first part of the chapter?.
    and, about the dreams, if it isn’t in memories, where is it? maybe this is susanoo’s so called ‘gift’.

  29. Thanks for the new chapter and happy new year!
    Honestly, the dreams always remember me how weak and docile Makoto is. Even though he have such strength, If not for that, he would be a helplessly useless guy. This one route of our Makoto is probably the only one in which he don’t loss anything and where everything goes in his favor.
    Not meeting Tomoe or Mio but the Heroes end with him being a psychopath.
    Siding with the demons ended with him losing Tomoe and Mio.
    Makoto is way TOO docile for his own good. Really, our Makoto was really fortunate for meeting those three. I wonder how many more dreams will he see?

  30. Why doesn’t Makoto just invite the demon race to live in Asora? I mean they’re about to perish because of the harsh land and Makoto has virtually endless amounts of land available..

    1. Probably because he doesn’t trust them
      He just heard that the demon massacred a bunch of people
      Highly doubt he would even consider it right now and he doesn’t really have a reason to bring them there

      1. Then Makoto just need to seal the bug, bring demon-clan to asora, hyuman conquer the world and everyone will be happy >:D. right?

      2. you talk about Matoko, who alway acts extremely careful to stupid point,
        will he risk ~1000 Asora citizens daily life(with the god knows dangerous that only someone as worrisome as him can think of) for the sake of one race ? nope he wouldn’t not even sacrifice one lizardman or orcman to save a dying demon country.
        Asora is already planning to open the border for trading. But only small area that Raidou specially ordered to build as he would never accept himself to face another event likr the one that killed first Tomor clone

    2. The reasons not to invite the demons were already given, but you know what I’d wish for as a compromise?

      What if Makoto pulled a chunk of Asoran fertile land out to give the demons a place to use in the outside world?

  31. why do I feel like tomoe is lying…maybe she feels embarrasing after watching makoto’s dream about them kissing each other :v guhehehehe
    I hope for more romance development >,<

  32. Happy New Year!
    And thanks for the chapter.

    For the comment: About the third dream, maybe it’s the path where Makoto join with the demon and become the demon lord because there’s no one who give him advice (Shiki) so he take the present path. Because the dreams always have a clear difference with the present path like he didn’t meet with Ema and Tomoe, or that he meet with heroes first, or he just meet with Tomoe and Mio but not with Shiki. And just before the dream he got an advice from Shiki about the conversation with the demon lord. So, maybe Makoto will be easily join the demon if he didn’t have Shiki.

  33.   ∧_∧
     ( ´・ω・) ∫ Thanks!
     //\ ̄ ̄旦\  Nepu!!
    // ※\___\
    \\  ※  ※ ※ ヽ
      \ヽ-―――――ヽ

  34. Happy new year all~ Thanks for the chapter, that was a Long chapter~
    I think those dreams Caused by another god involved though, and the last may be a route that without shiki exist.

  35. Thanks 4 the chapter and Happy New Year!

    Dreams that aren’t dreams and cannot be seen by Tomoe? Maybe he’s seeing the present him in other timelines. The reason Tomoe can’t see it… maybe that ability it’s the domain of gods?

    1. 2 Theories come to mind. One, a future version of himself is sending images to his past self to warn or change a certain outcome. Two, Makoto is stepping into the realm of the gods in terms of power, maybe this is a side effect or an immergance of a godly power. Like maybe he is becoming the God of Posabilities, or something to that effect.

      1. no…but that would be more interesting too, or how she might react to the knowledge that they might already have become lovers if Shiki was never in the picture.

  36. So these ‘What-if’ dreams Makoto has been having, serves as wisdom granted to him by the gods; he’ll be very careful with his actions from hereon out.

  37. TOMOE may have not known his Dreams through mind reading
    BUT
    I think she has (MIND)read about Makoto’s Extra thoughts on things like
    the KISS his demon Lord Counterpart had

    Also this may be a stretch but I do no think Tomoe is referring to a
    Sword Technique in this line:

    “Yeah, have a good sleep. I as well…!! If pushing doesn’t work, maybe pulling…”

    MY interpretation:
    One does not easily push down Makoto
    A Pull while he is unguarded(lol) will be the most effective way to KI…..okay I’ll stop

  38. Happy new year.. And ummm.. What’s that dream was all about? It wasn’t dream according to Tomoe, parallel universe? A linked consciousness between Mako demon and Makoto?

      1. Yea that’s what i mean. Either it’s a dream caused by the gift that the 3 Gods of Destruction give, so it’s like giving him divination through his dream, but the reason why Tomoe cloud not detect because it’s divination, not just a dream, or a parallel universe where makoto took different decisions.

  39. I have to say, I really like Makoto’s conversation with Zef, as well as Zef himself. It’s such a shame Makoto had to repay his gentle advice with an insomnia bomb.

    The approach was as close to sincerity and honesty as it possibly could have been, and I’d say it was the wisest choice possible on the demon’s part. In fact, a lot of sensible developments I’ve really been hoping for all came into fruition this chapter.
    They clear up the misunderstanding of Makoto’s declaration of overbearing power, they made clear that the demons are harsh but not without reason, Makoto starts acting on his dreams, and above all, Makoto shared his dreams with his followers.

    And on that note…….UWAAAAAAH!!! That dream was horrible! ;A;
    Nooo…Mio! Tomoe(Lover version)!!!
    It looks like Shiki really was a vital part to Makoto’s support…It seems neutrality really is the way to go for now…

    1. Addendum. Another great development is the dream triggering Makoto’s starting to look at Tomoe as a woman, however briefly. Don’t know where this will go, but I like it. 😀

  40. If he meet that other entity and gets a power if he asks for the power to understand relative positioning with his sure hit power he could probably open a passage home.

  41. If he can remember the dreams but tomoe can’t see them, would that not suggest that those memories are beyond tomoe’s ability to understand and perceive.

    1. I think it’s more like those were visions that Makoto doesn’t technically “experience”.

      He spontaneously gains information without actually experiencing or hearing about it, so there’s no source. Without a source, there’s no memory to go back to.

    1. Well for this chapter, for the first part, it was good until when Motoko and zen went out to talk, I got a bit lost there…..for Mokoto3 his story I found very intriguing. Well when all is said and done, I’m just glad the main Motoko has realized the importance of his dreams and is acting on it, taking notes.
      I think Tomoe saw the contents of the “dreams” but just is not saying. She realizes how important it is and will act on them revealing it little by little to Motoko.
      I was actually looking to see them give a hint saying Tomoe saw the dreams.

  42. What is this nagging feeling that she saw themselves kissing in his (maybe memories of the dream because she said she didn’t find the dream) dream.

    1. that was a good chapter but i really don’t like the dreams. they are really sad endings. well that’s “the power of probability and what will happen if”.
      i am w8ing to see there reaction after Zef say what happened at kalenion ;

      THANKS FOR THE CHAPTER 😀

  43. I really wonder if he even has Asora in Demonlord timeline. If he only had two underlings and no mention of the races Tomoe had him pick up.

    One thing I think is noteworthy is that Asora’s peacefulness allows Makoto to practice his bow. It takes some time into real timeline for him to terrify his followers with the way he practices. Given that is a major reason his current magic capacity is so crazy…it’s entirely possible that in all alternate timelines we’ve peeked in so far that this level of practice just didn’t happen.

    Think about if “just arrived” Makotowas to join forces with heros without meeting Tomoe? He’d still be strong enough to beat a dragon but he’d have been trained in more real fighting much earlier on. Similarly with just Tomoe and Mio he might have found himself battling and getting used to battling sooner. He’d be weaker then our waka in both cases but far more confident/experienced.

    My point was that it’s very reasonable for chapter 3 Makoto to do what alternate reality Makoto’s have done without the power up of archery practice or the gods visit. Which leads to an interesting ironic twist that the stories general laidback pace may be revealed to be the greatest factor in Makoto reaching god-level power.

    1. That would be interesting. Although the one thing I have to wonder is why Makotwo or three wouldn’t practice the bow.

      He learned archery on earth and it was a practice that put him at ease, so you’d think he’d do it anyway.
      …Unless that doubling mechanic only happens inside Asora?

      1. I honestly think that the alternate makotos also have a different base(different stuff happened in earth too and not just in this world). Like makotwo learned sworsmanship and as you can see in this chapter the real makoto has been affected by makotwo’s influence, real makoto has some knowledge of swordmanship that he doesn’t remember getting. At least thats my theory with the dream makoto.

      2. i believe it isn’t simple a matter of training with the bow, but knowing and training a way to use all the extra magic power, without all the rest of Asora, he wouldn’t have got on the path of a teacher on Rotsgard which equals not getting to know the sisters and consequently knowing the info about materialization of magic power, because while it is a wasteful method it is quite usable, that means even if he have 10x bugdess magic power he won’t even be able to use enough to fight evenly against her.

      3. @Isekai

        I like that. The other paths he chose didn’t allow him to learn the things he needed.

        Even if all the other Makotos were able to increase their magic power, it doesn’t seem like they had much going for them in terms of a powerful technique that could utilize that power. Even the current (“real”) Makoto acknowledged that he can’t beat the bug (yet), because she’s ahead of him in terms of experience / techniques (after having that pointed out by her, IIRC, so not reliable source). Though that might just be him being modest.

        The first Mako-alt focused on his Sakai as his offensive power, but as powerful as that is, it’s still a “borrowed” divine technique, and bug surely has her own means to counter it. Though he never got a chance to go up against her. One problem with it is that he doesn’t have anything to block the bug’s attacks. The Sakai may be overwhelming as an offensive ability, but she just has to endure it and send an attack of her own. That Makoto didn’t have a magic armor, and couldn’t use Sakai for defense (presumably).

        The second one walked the path of the sword. He might have learned to imbue the sword with his overwhelming power (or even Sakai), but still… I don’t think he’d be able to get close enough to bug to be able to use it. Then again, he chose to fight bug by destroying the world itself.

        The third one is likely very similar to “real” Makoto, but probably focused on the more “ordinary” applications of magic (but again as Isekai points out, didn’t get the chance to learn the stuff needed for magic armor). He didn’t have an ace up his sleeve, but had endless stamina, in terms of magic power, which allowed him to win any battle through attrition if he couldn’t finish it quickly. That’s more than enough to become the Demon Lord, since no one would be able to oppose him. But still not enough to go against the bug.

      4. Another example is 1st dream makoto using sakai differently, iirc sakai changes depending on the person wielding it, thus it could be another proof that each makoto was different back from earth. You can also see it from how they talk(others using ore) that they are different though that could just be because its in the future.

  44. Happy new year, to all the readers and Reigo-san, thanks for another great job.
    As a side note, if someone can enlight me: what Makoto’s “dreams” really are?. My appreciation before hand.
    Enjoy the after-party.

    1. makoto dream mostly come from alternate universe where every action and event that happen to him come from every decision he make, this dream could be the result of the gift from three gods that come to Asora before (Shiva, Athena and Susano)
      for example
      1. in the first dream with hibiki he didnt meet any of his follower (the orcs, tomoe, mio, shiki) which resulted in his broken person attitude hunting the heroes to drag out the damn Bug.
      2. in the second dream , he was thrown into the desert (probably where sazanami or Grount) reside, where trashmoki found him wandering and then save him, resulting in him helping gritonia empire
      and on this third dream

  45. A new ability?Slowly Awakening as a god or demigod, a glimpse into a universe that runs parallel to the one he is currently in and/or was created due to his actions? Being shown a glimpse of what could be or what could have been by something or someone? The possibilities for the origin of Makoto’s mysterious “dreams” seem large.

  46. the its a future without the adviser shiki
    if he dis not meet shiki he might have played into the hands of Rona in Rostgard then one after another with his contact with Rona he will turn to the demon side and lose Mio and Tomoe for opposing the Bug by siding with the demon.

    1. I’ve mentioned it in a different comment, so I’ll just summarize.

      – Shiki arranged practically everything for Makoto.
      – Makoto got kidnapped on his way to the Academy.
      – Without Shiki, he might have ended up not going there after all, or not have been able to complete all the paperwork and stuff on time.
      – Forgoing Academy City, and having an even greater grudge against bug, he may have joined the demons, therefore never met Rona until after already joining demons.
      – In this reality, rather than being played by her, he might even have been her subordinate for a while.

      1. I see your point
        but Makoto going to academy is by Rembrandt influence, even if he didn’t become a teacher of the academy he might have still build his store branch in the city since it was his main goal in the first place because the 4 major countries influence is minimum in that city.
        so there is still a possibility of contact with Rona since she is a demon that will make him notice her as she is a demon in hyuman disguise

  47. Wow this chapter was FREAKIN’ HUGE!

    …. this thought won’t leave me: since dragons are endlessly reincarnating… why didn’t you make an omelette with that egg?

    Thanks so much for all your hard work and I hope you have a great New Year~~~~~~

    1. I think the dream made it clear that dragons have their limits in terms of reincarnation…
      Don’t you think the power needed to cook the egg would also destroy the dragon?

      1. I think you missed some detail here. Mio should be IMPOSSIBLE to be killed. And Superior Dragons Always recarnate when they are killed.
        But the bug is come to them itself. It didn’t kill them, it erase them(It is able to do that, Makoto was almost erased once,but luckily, those Gods suddenly visited that Realm so bug didn’t have time for it. Makoto lived). That’s why She couldn’t recarnate and Mio too.

  48. Happy new year! I have some questions. I didn’t get the part where if psuhing doesn’t work then may be try pulling. I didn’t get what tomoe meant. Can someone explain it captain?

    1. My thoughts on this:

      If drawing the sword from the sheath won’t get her the desired result, then she could pull the sheath away from the sword. Then swing the sword as the sheath get’s clear.

      Normally I would think that there won’t be much power going to the sword, but considering that Tomoe is a Superior Dragon that has a humongous power-up by Makoto, renders this thinking a moot point.

      1. Well, it doesn’t need to be a strong move. I don’t see it as something one would intend to be a finishing/one-hit kill move.

        As long as you can surprise your opponent, or even draw blood, it’s enough to buy you the time you need to put some distance between you and get into your stance.

  49. Interesting, so in the “what if” where he sided with the demons instead of either one of the heroes he also encountered mio and tomoe (but not shiki), maybe the next one will show him the what if he had chosen to go to that country with the priestess, or his actual future (where he sided with no one)

  50. Thank you very much for the long chapter and happy New Year!
    So far it seems Makoto has been living the safest path for him… With the heroes he turns evil, with the demons he has companionship but holds nothing but anger… Asora is the path he must follow. I feel like either Makoto has transcended some weird level of humanity or someone like MoonBro is sending him advice.

      1. no, i think its because of the pact with makoto that made them human, and so unable to reincarnate, that’s for tomoe, i think mio couldn’t reincarnate from the beginning, she is just immortal and never faced death thank to her regenerative power

  51. I don’t know if I’m right about this idea that the dreams are connected to the ‘gift’ left behind to Makoto by the Gods (Susanoo, Shiva…) and that by the end he gets to view every single possible result of each choice he took or could have taken(whether from the past or another timeline).

    1. Most likely what you said is true and there also possibility each those pararel world’s already destroyed that’s way Tomoe unable to see any recollection and makoto only had vague memories

      1. The way I see the memories is not in his brain or wherever they are stored rather it is from the universe records. This is like streaming where the files are not stored in the pc but from cloud.

  52. I’ve just finished the new year house cleaning, when I found your new chapter in my SP. It feel like being rewarded after my hard work.

    Well, happy new year.

  53. Thanks for the chapter!!!……..
    Well, that was nice path there. Becoming a demon lord, but he have to lost his underlings……

    1. I like them too. In a way, they also show what kind of a story this could have been, if the author decided on following different themes.

    1. This chapter really massive, how much word it contain Reigo-san?

      — “I came satisfied. It was all as planned-desu wa.” (Mio) —
      Someone just got back from food touring…
      XD…

      — When I thought that he was staring at Mio while trembling fiercely, without saying anything, he began foaming and fell to his back. —
      The trauma is planted deep inside…
      >.<…

      — “…Tomoe.” (Makothree) —
      BRILLIANT…
      XD…

  54. ╔══╦╗────╔╗───╔═╗──────  ∧_∧
    ╚╗╔╣╚╦═╦═╣║╔═╗║║╠═╦═╦╦╗ ( ・∀・)
    ─║║║╦║╬║║║╚╝╔╝║║║╩╣╬║║║  ノ つつ
    ─║║║║║║║║║╔╗╚╗╚╩╩═╣╔╩═╝ ⊂、 ノ   
    ─╚╝╚╩╩╩╩╩╩╝╚═╝────╚╝───  し’
    ╔╦╗────────╔═╗──────╔╦╗──────
    ║╩╠═╦═╦═╦╦╗║║╠═╦═╦╦╗║║╠═╦═╦╦╗
    ║╦║╬║╬║╬║║║║║║╩╣╬║║║╠╗║╩╣╬║╔╝
    ╚╩╩╩╣╔╣╔╬╗║╚╩╩═╣╔╩═╝╚═╩═╩╩╩╝─
    ────╚╝╚╝╚═╝────╚╝────────────

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