"Jin, you seem exhausted lately. Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yeah, don't push yourself too hard."

"I'm fine. Don't worry about me."

These days, or rather recently, I’ve been having dinner with Lutra and the others. While I try to act tough, it’s true that I’ve been feeling drained. I’m definitely working harder now than I ever did back in my old world.

That said, things have gotten a little easier lately. We’ve been systematically visiting towns and villages near the Demon Territory, and for a while now, there haven’t been any human incursions.

I’d like to believe it’s thanks to our grassroots efforts—showing strength in these areas while proving that we mean no harm to humans whenever possible.

"Hey, old man! Guess what? I’ve started using magic, even if just a little!"

"That’s amazing, Alex! I heard most people can’t use magic until they’re older."

"Hehe, awesome, right?"

Honestly, having meals with Lutra, Beane, and Alex is a great way to unwind. It’s the one thing that keeps me sane during these busy times.

Even though they know I’m a Demon Lord now, they don’t seem to fully grasp what that means. They still treat me the same as always, and I’m grateful for that.

Life is hectic right now, but I hope the war with the humans ends soon so I can finally relax. This old man wants nothing more than to enjoy some good food and leisurely travel around this world.

"Lord Demon Lord, can you hear me?"

A voice resonated in my mind. It was telepathic communication, a skill used for direct messaging. This voice... It’s Sandor’s.

I was at the Demon Lord’s Castle, having a discussion with Debra when the call came through.

"Yes, I can hear you. This is Sandor, correct?"

"Indeed, it is I, Sandor. Telepathic communication is truly a marvelous thing."

I’ve received a few reports recently about the rescue of demon prisoners from human territories or new human incursions into demon lands. However, this is the first time Sandor has reached out to me directly.

"Is something wrong? Have you rescued new prisoners?"

"Ah, I got carried away marveling at telepathy! But no, we have a problem. Demon Lord, this is serious. According to our intelligence, the Hero has finally begun to move!"

"What!?"

It’s happening. Damn it. Things had been quiet for a while, and I’d started hoping we could negotiate a ceasefire. But I was too optimistic...

"A statement was just issued from the Empire where the Hero resides. The Hero will be heading to the front lines where the demons are. Nearby towns have been instructed to provide maximum support for the Hero. He’s expected to appear on the front lines within a few days."

Damn it! Couldn’t he just stay put!?

"I don’t know where he’ll strike first, but you should be prepared, Demon Lord."

"Understood. Thank you. This information is invaluable."

Even without knowing his exact point of attack, just knowing he’s coming allows us to prepare.

"You might also receive reports from other towns. While it can’t be done openly, I believe some humans quietly support the current Demon Lord. Former human prisoners have said they were treated well and fed decently while in captivity. Your efforts have earned respect."

It seems that even among the humans, information spreads between nations and towns. Our steady grassroots efforts have been paying off.

"If the Hero comes to the town I’m in, I’ll discreetly relay what I can. But that’s as much as I can do."

"That alone is more than enough."

"Truth be told, I’m more inclined to support the current Demon Lord than the Hero. Though... that’s just a private thought."

"Hearing that from you means a lot, Sandor. It also tells me this Hero isn’t exactly a friend to the demons."

"I met him once. His personality isn’t what you’d call... admirable. But his strength is unmatched, even among Heroes of the past. Be very careful."

From what I’ve gathered about this Hero, he seems incredibly strong. This is the first I’ve heard about his poor personality, though. Ideally, I’d like to resolve this conflict without fighting him.

"Thank you for the information, Sandor. I’ll make sure to repay this favor."

"No need for that. Consider it idle chatter on my part. If you wish to repay me, share a drink with me once this war is over."

"I hope that day comes soon."

"When it does, I’d love to see the face beneath your helmet. Though, regardless of what lies underneath, it won’t change my opinion."

"...We’ll see about that."

Beneath this helmet is just an ordinary, unremarkable middle-aged man. Still, I hope for a day when Sandor and I, along with humans and demons alike, can drink together in peace.