Bathesia’s current situation was exceptional. A proxy had taken her place as the Demon King. However, from the perspective of her subordinates, Bathesia was their true master. Her subordinates, known for their exceptional loyalty, would undoubtedly come to her rescue even if ordered not to leave by her proxy. If Borcania’s forces were combined with Bathesia’s, they might have a chance to defeat Soltracross.

But after that, Bathesia’s territory would be fragmented. A Demon King who was not followed by her subordinates. Subordinates who did not obey their Demon King’s orders. Such forces, along with the demons and monsters willing to join them, did not exist. Her territory would gradually be eroded, and she would eventually disappear without a trace.

In principle, there wouldn’t be a problem, but the issue was the method—extremely underhanded and unbecoming of a Demon King. If it were revealed, all demons and Demon Kings would condemn such actions.

It seemed like a similar approach.

“As expected, you’re similar to me.”

“It’s a very unpleasant fact, but yes.”

Borcania agreed.

Karos chuckled as he spoke, “So, what happens if I refuse?”

“You’ll die. If you had just obediently stepped aside, I wouldn’t have had to suppress you. The two Demon Kings would meet their deaths alone in a goblin cave.”

“And if I accept?”

“You’ll gain a trustworthy ally. I’ll ensure you receive as many monsters as you want. You won’t regret it. Besides, Bathesia, who lost her power, will become your subordinate forever. That stubborn woman might even start listening to you after a while, don’t you think?”

“Very well, Borcania.”

Karos chuckled. Borcania smiled back. It was the smile of a victor.

“Your proposal is regrettable, but I’ll have to decline.”

“Why…?”

Borcania’s face stiffened. Her unchanging poker face had cracked, and Karos laughed cheerfully.

“Yes, that’s the face I wanted to see. I didn’t like your arrogant attitude, acting as if you knew everything.”

“Quit the nonsense and answer quickly. Why are you rejecting my proposal? There should be no reason not to. You said it yourself, Karos. We are similar.”

“Yes, we are similar.”

Karos raised his arm and mumbled to himself.

“But there’s one difference, Borcania. I haven’t lost my pride.”

One of the few principles Karos adhered to.

I am powerless. I have no strength. I rely on others, and without using them, I can’t survive.

But there’s honor in it. The first value of a Demon King. To protect your subordinates.

“Borcania, if you had Bathesia as your subordinate, you would use her without hesitation.”

“What’s wrong with that? Isn’t using everything the essence of being a Demon King?”

“Not for me. I’m nothing special. That’s why I have something to protect. I won’t abandon my subordinates. When I achieve something, it’s with my own power. It’s meaningless if I rely on others. That’s where you and I differ.”

“…Negotiations seem to be at an impasse.”

“More than anything, Borcania, aren’t you the source of these rumors?”

Karos said with a smirk. Borcania’s eyes trembled slightly in response. Karos didn’t miss it.

“What?”

“I heard it from Bathesia. She said that I spread rumors about her. When I think about it, who else but you would do such a thing? You must have had a good laugh watching me being chased. How dare you pull off such a scheme behind my back and then propose something like this to me?”

Karos held the gemstone and chuckled.

“Get lost, you filthy creature. You’re nothing like me. You don’t even understand the subject, let alone its value. Just die quietly.”

“…You’ll die with me, Goblin.”

“Gyah!”

The chief raised his fist and approached menacingly. Karos looked at him and spoke.

“Well, maybe not.”

“What?”

“It’s unlikely. You’re powerless, physically weaker than a human, and not fit to be a Demon King! Kill them!”

“Gyah!”

“Kill them! Kill them!”

“Gyah…!”

Slimes emerged from within Karos’ clothes. They jumped out one by one and attached themselves to the chief. Despite the goblin trying to shake them off, there were nine slimes in total. The numbers were overwhelmingly in favor of the slimes, and the goblin struggled helplessly as they overwhelmed him.

“Gyah! Spare me!”

“What! There were no signs of monsters!”

“You knew about my abilities, didn’t you? About my unremarkable ability as a half-human. So, you probably didn’t take any precautions against me. But I never said I wouldn’t take any action!”

When Karos had to capture the goblin, he had tried to leave them behind. It was useless, and more importantly, their size made them hard to conceal. However, it was during that time when the slimes didn’t listen to his commands.

‘In that case, why not put them inside your body?’

‘…But wouldn’t I look like a pig?’

Karos had responded to Lillis with a dumbfounded expression.

Slimes didn’t reduce in volume. If he wore them thickly, he could put them all in, but it would be uncomfortable. However, the slimes that heard those words were different.

‘Gyah!’

The slimes entered Karos’ body with a scream. Karos panicked, but to his surprise, he realized that the slimes had shrunk.

‘…The slimes have shrunk?’

‘These slimes are quite different from normal ones.’

He discovered it through a few experiments. The slimes he summoned could adjust their volume as they pleased. He had considered using them effectively if the conditions were met, but he hadn’t expected it to be so soon. Still, it had saved his life.

“Now, Chief, shall we have a little chat?”

“Gyah, gyah…”

Karos approached with a smile. The subdued chief chuckled nervously.

“All right, Chief. We may have a lot to talk about, but I won’t kill you. There must be an antidote somewhere.”

“Gyah! Yes, I will guide you!”

The chief, now subdued by the slimes, bowed his head with a pitiful expression. Borcania watched the scene and clenched her fist.

“These wretched goblins… Die! Instead of being taken as hostages, just die!”

Hyung_Otaku

I'm currently Translating the following novels: Pick Me Up! | A Frontline Soldier Awakened as a Gamer In The War! | The 100th Regression of the Max-Level Player. If you want to support me and read more chapters please subscribe to my Patreon!