Sato's [Clean] is really convenient. The dirt and bloodstains are gone, though the clothing tears are still visible. I cover my slightly exposed body with a layer of mana to blur light...since the boys are avoiding eye contact. I put Eurevos's whistle in my back pocket, now free of [Core Grenades], and inhale deeply in the rotten yet somehow refreshing air.
"Phew, the dark mana inside me is whirling much stronger than before..."
What's up with that chuuni-like line? Anyways, we've finished our objective and the [Cursed One] no longer exists in this world. The [Curses] are diligently retreating as a result. Looking back, it seems like a fantastical epic...
Yoru measured me up, and it seems that my mana amount currently is calculated to be able to teleport us back to Earth with some to spare. That's a relief. Thouria's expertise must've been involved there, team efforts make big changes.
"We should head back to Earth as soon as possible to confirm we really stopped [Second Contact], though I do want to revel in the light of victory more."
Then Yoru said,
"It's fine if you don't return right away you know."
"Hm? Why's that?"
"I'm in contact with those back on Earth and the signs of [Second Contact] are gone. Also, if I recall correctly, the last time the heroes were transported here, everyone acted naturally on your absence upon return. So, no panic would ensue the longer your time here."
"I see, but we should really be back at some point."
Yeah, at some point.
"In truth, your sudden appearance and disappearance in this world would cause more panic."
"I guess it would be kind of a jerk move if I were to command an army into a hopeless battle and just leave forever. I need to at least thank them heartfully."
The heroes reminisced too,
"We should also thank Thouria, Rinku, Raldia, and Gauss since we were able to make it this far."
Rinku began excitedly,
"No no that's not the case at all! You saved our world again! Heroes, Nakano-san, and um...A-Aki-san you all saved us!"
Too cute. Catgirls YES.
"Well, if we have that sorted out...I'll see you guys soon. I need to thank the demons. Don't worry, we'll be connected by the Focals."
The group gave me reluctant looks but eventually sent me off like doting parents at a new school.
[Gravity Magic]
I lift up in the air slowly...I'm getting even better control. If I keep this up, I should be able to skillfully fly anywhere or in complicated patterns. Don't forget physical enhancements...as I accelerate towards the demonic front.
I land clumsily again in a clear field of grass. Nearby patches of blood have dried and the sun beams down on the lively victors and fallen corpses.
"It's Aki-sama!"
"[Demon Lord] Aki-sama has come!"
"The [Curses] retreated after she showed her fearsome might! As expected of Aki-sama!"
The blinding praises of the soldiers bounced back and forth in between my heart canals. It was obvious to say that my expression naturally lit up and loosened. I walked over to a more fitting area...and raised my fist to the sky confidently.
"OU!!!"
""All hail Aki-sama!""
I wonder what kind of grin I have on my face right now. I was then approached by a petite magician loli.
"Aki-sama, w-welcome back I-I have something to tell you."
"What is it, Konno?"
She turned her face up to me with sparkling eyes and told me about the situation with Teona. So that's what Eurevos stopped...it could've been bad. This [Demon Lord] status has a lot of weight, well I've been using it all this time. I should rethink my position, I'm in this world, aren't I?
"Thank you for that Konno."
Then, I gave a light headpat. My urge can no longer be suppressed! After a bit,
"Sorry, did you not like it?"
Konno's face blushed bright red and her expression curled up slightly.
"N-no...it's...uuu. Thank you Aki-sama."
Next came running up to me...
"Aki-sama!"
"Oh, Yaido."
I saw her swordsmanship during the fight, it was clean and powerful. The title [Demonic Blade] sure fits. Her appearance on the battlefield surely gave a morale push.
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"Good work."
"Your words are wasted on me, Aki-sama. Anyways, I'm glad you've returned, the [Curses] seem to be retreating...is this your work?"
From her perspective, I suddenly dipped from battle and the next moment the [Curses] stopped advancing. I should clear that up.
"Oh yeah, their leader...the [Cursed One] was unbelievably strong. The [Curses] retreat when it's defeated."
"I see."
Her eyes gleamed with luster as she thought," I'm glad to have someone such as you as the [Demon Lord]."
Alright, this pattern...who's next?
"Hm? Lovet?"
"Yes, it's me~"
"That [Broadcast] of yours was really helpful, thank you."
"No, it was your beautiful passion that moved the gears, my lord. I think demonkind is waiting for a new prosperous era with your taking of the title. Indeed they are!"
"Haha..."
Hinted with guilt, I laughed nervously. Soon after, a new person, a [Dark Knight] appeared to my side.
"Hm? You are...the one from that time."
I recalled the one whose arm got torn off trying to help me. Konno has already healed it though. Well, he's loyal and a prestigious knight so I don't think he's a bad person.
"Yes. I am also the brother of [Dark Knight] unit commander Riord, Riordus, my lord."
I see, knight brothers huh?
"Is your brother around?"
"Well, he was..."
I then heard the story. That Teona was certainly fishy, but to think it was like that.
"I-Is that so...I offer my condolences."
I won't cry. The death now just leaves a bad aftertaste. I clench my fists lightly as my body stiffened unnoticeably.
We saved thousands on Earth from being killed and millions on this one. Sacrifices were necessary, and now everything is done. My fire is burnt out already. I wander my memories...what was Riord thinking in the end? The Riord who raised his blade to me in test and determination. If it was my existence that triggered Teona...well, it's not for me to think of those troublesome things. I came here for my own goals and was dragged into a tangled mess. Is that an excuse or escape? I guess you could say that this whole operation was an escape. I'm not about to take responsibility for it. Well, maybe a bit...
"The fight's over, we'll rest up in the meantime. Afterward, we'll hurry back to the main territory."
The demons nodded in agreement. We have enough resources to make it, especially since our numbers were thinned. Prices prices prices. I, myself, could just fly all the way back, but that's not right. It's me who'll stick with them, my men, my subordinates. The [Demon Lord] Aki...isn't so bad. What have I missed from narrowing my mind to salvation I wonder?
After Aki left the black stage where the [Cursed One] was defeated...
"Akit-Aki can fly...what an outrageous gu--, girl."
Rinku eyed the remaining 8 with prying eyes.
"Suzuki-sama called her Akito before...some kind of nickname?"
"Y-yeah something like that!"
A quick affirmation, Rinku was seemingly satisfied. Anyways, the atmosphere relaxed as the noisy attacking [Curse] sounds changed to that of shuffling footsteps and low rumbles.
"So we really did it...it was one hell of a crazy ride. It was actually Aki and Ai though."
The blue-haired ruffian exclaimed.
"Got that right. Now, who would want to return back to normal life on Earth?"
"I would."
"Haha, same here."
"Anyways, we should thank the troops on the ground too. And when we return to the [Holy Kingdom]'s capital..."
"Agreed."
"I wonder what Onee-chan's doing right now..."
Smiles, warmth, and the baking layered sky cover the tragedies of yesterday. Beginning an after.
(I haven't updated the story in a bit...but I have a ton of new ideas now! No recap since I was lazy. Enjoy V4 start.)