“We’ve just received a telepathic message from the humans. It seems the Hero has finally begun to move.”

“So, the Hero has finally made his appearance…”

“Yes. Apparently, a message was sent from the Empire to the human town closest to the Demon Territory. We don’t know exactly when the Hero left the Empire, but considering the speed of communication, he’ll likely arrive in a few days at the earliest.”

I’ve already memorized a good portion of this world’s map. The Empire is the largest nation in human territory, located deep within their lands. It also serves as one of the central powers in the humans’ war effort against the demons.

“With that much time, we should be able to make sufficient preparations.”

Over the past week, we’ve been carefully planning our response to the Hero’s arrival.

“Alright, let’s initiate the Hero Encirclement Strategy!”

“Yes, sir!”

Don’t comment on the lame name; I’m painfully aware of it. I debated between Operation Braver and this, but honestly, both are equally uncool.

The strategy is straightforward. First, we’ll use the Telepathic Skill to notify all the demon settlements near human territory. They’ll monitor the Hero’s movements.

Specifically, each settlement will deploy a large number of lookouts. If humans, accompanied by the Hero, attack, the settlement will immediately evacuate. The chieftains will use the telepathic skill to report directly to me.

“…Alright, I’ve contacted the chieftains of all the settlements. They’re preparing their surveillance teams and will notify us of any abnormalities immediately.”

“As expected of you, Demon Lord!”

I had already informed the chieftains in advance. Surveillance locations and personnel assignments were arranged ahead of time.

If human armies or the Hero appear in any demon settlement, the plan is for me to teleport to the location with the Four Generals and other key leaders of the Demon Army.

…What? You think we’re going to crush them with overwhelming force?

Of course! If negotiations are possible, great. But if it comes to a fight, we’ll use everything at our disposal to win.

The previous Demon Lord apparently accepted a one-on-one duel with the Hero. But I don’t see any reason to entertain such an idea. Even if the Hero arrives alone, I plan to ensure he’s overpowered by the entire Demon Army.

…What’s that? You think it’s unfair? I’m the Demon Lord; fairness isn’t in my job description. If five heroes showed up in a Saturday morning cartoon, I’d throw my entire army at them from episode one. Call me inconsiderate if you want, but my life is on the line here.

That said, I have no intention of killing the Hero. I’m sure Jilbe and Lugaro will complain about my decision again.

The Hero was summoned to this world five years ago. It’s possible he’s from the same world as me—or even the same Japan. If possible, I’d like to resolve this peacefully.

“Next, I’ll contact…”

Using the telepathic skill, I reached out to the Four Generals and other leaders scattered across the Demon Territory, summoning them back to the Demon Lord’s Castle. They’ve been managing internal affairs, such as securing food and minerals.

“Yes, Demon Lord! I’ll return to the castle immediately!”

I contacted each of them in turn. They’re all instructed to remain at the castle for about a week, during which we anticipate the Hero’s appearance. Once we receive intel on his location, we’ll teleport there as a group. Perfect plan, right?

Now, onto Jilbe…

“Got it. Let me finish off this monster, and I’ll head back right away.”

“Good. I’m counting on you.”

Jilbe’s unit was tasked with hunting monsters for food and materials. They need to return to the castle as soon as possible.

“I’ve contacted the Four Generals and key leaders. Can I leave the preparation of weapons and armor to you, Debra?”

We’ve already prepared specialized equipment for the Four Generals and leaders to counter the Hero. While I’d like to incorporate technology from my old world into the weapons, there’s no time.

Maybe that’s for the best; bringing weapons from my world into this one doesn’t sit well with me.

“Understood! Leave it to me!”

Debra left the room to handle the preparations.

We’ve done everything possible to prepare for the Hero’s arrival. While I’d rather avoid conflict, I’ve considered every scenario—even what might happen if I lose.

What? Thinking about losing already? This isn’t a match; it’s war. If we lose, countless demon lives are at stake, not just mine. I’ve even planned an evacuation strategy, including abandoning settlements and the Demon Lord’s Castle if necessary.

Of course, I won’t risk my life either. If things get dangerous, I’ll teleport away immediately. This old man isn’t above dropping everything and running for his life.

Just as I was about to move on to other preparations…

“Hey, Demon Lord! Can you hear me?”

Jilbe’s voice came through telepathy.

“What’s wrong, Jilbe? Is there a problem?”

“Damn it! It’s the Hero! That bastard showed up here!”

“What!?”