“We will provide support from the Demon King’s army if needed.”

It seemed safe to leave the recently rescued demons under the care of this town’s inhabitants. Since I had no detailed knowledge of the Demon King’s army’s finances, I decided to leave the specifics of support to Debra.

“I cannot express my gratitude enough…”

“One more thing, Jaiji, was it? Extend your right hand.”

“Ah, as you wish…”

Though visibly unsure, Jaiji extended his right hand. I clasped it with my own, initiating a handshake.

‘Can you hear my voice?’

“Wha—Demon King! Your voice is in my head!?”

“Indeed, it seems to have worked. This is the ability of my telepathy skill. Through this, no matter how far apart we are, we can communicate instantly.”

The telepathy skill enables instant mental communication with those I register via a handshake. Up to 100 people can be registered, making it an invaluable skill in this world, where proper communication systems don’t exist. It’s true—information is power.

“You may also initiate contact with me. Should humans attack, inform me immediately.”

“Oh! What a wondrous power!”

“My lord! You possess such abilities as well? Please allow me to register later!”

“Indeed, I will.”

I realized I hadn’t yet registered Libera. At present, the only ones registered were Debra and Lutra at the Demon King’s castle. At the very least, all Four Generals should be included.

“With the ability to contact the Demon King directly in case of emergencies, I feel a profound sense of security! If humans attack and our forces are in danger, I will contact you at once!”

“No, to minimize casualties among our people, contact me before the battle begins.”

“Ah, such kindness! Understood. I promise to reach out immediately!”

It’s better to prevent combat altogether than to intervene afterward. While I didn’t expect humans to attack anytime soon, it was best to be prepared.

“Now, Jaiji, there’s something I must ask of you.”

“By all means, my lord, anything!”

“First, I want to take custody of all human prisoners in this town.”

“Human prisoners, you say?”

“Yes. Unfortunately, the demons are at a disadvantage in the war with humans. My goal is to propose a ceasefire, allowing time to rebuild and strengthen the Demon King’s army.”

“I see.”

“I aim to prioritize rescuing our captured brethren. To this end, human prisoners will be essential for potential exchanges. We must gather and preserve them.”

Debra, Libera, and I had already discussed this approach. Directly pushing for coexistence with humans or suggesting their protection would meet resistance from the demon populace. Instead, the plan was to frame it as a strategic pause to regroup and strengthen.

“Should humans appear near this town, ensure they are captured alive. Avoid injuring them unless they violently resist. Damaging them reduces their value as prisoners.”

Framing this as necessary for prisoner exchanges should deter unnecessary harm to humans.

“As expected of the Demon King! Such meticulous care for the demon race. I confess, I only ever thought of humans as slaves or corpses.”

“…”

Even the kind-faced Jaiji held such views. Well, it’s war. Perhaps it’s unavoidable.

“Understood, my lord! I will ensure humans are captured without needless harm!”

“Good. It will require effort, but I trust you, Wolui.”

“Such an honor, my lord!”

“It seems we have gathered all the human prisoners.”

“Yes, Demon King!”

Following Jaiji, Wolui, and the town’s efforts, the humans were assembled. There were around ten in total. Both men and women had been used as labor, resulting in malnutrition and emaciation. However, they had not been subjected to magical experiments or sexual violence, which, considering the circumstances, was a relief.

I used my detection skills to confirm there were no other humans in the area. Thankfully, the demons here appeared to be honest.

“Demon King, we are deeply grateful for all you’ve done!”

“Indeed, I appreciate your cooperation. Do not hesitate to consult me, no matter how minor the issue.”

“Hah!”

“Demon King!”

“Hmm?”

A group of demons I had rescued from the human town, along with what seemed to be their families, approached me. Though I had heard they had been treated with healing magic, I wondered if they were truly alright now.