Chapter 10

After successfully quelling the indiscriminate murderous intent of the girl—who had been so thoroughly sealed away—and being officially recognized as a research collaborator by Celene the Four Heavenly Kings, she was able to receive various pieces of information in return.

Starting with the fact that the soul residing within that mechanical doll belonged to Hero Kaiser, who ten years ago struck fear into all Demon Race members as the Worst Hero.

Through ongoing research on souls, they were uncovering the source of the hereditary power that plagued the Demon Race and seeking ways to utilize it.

As part of this effort, they had managed to successfully transfer Kaiser’s soul into a military automaton, but despite attempts to erase his self-awareness and reset his memories, the resistance was so intense it defied principles, resulting in minimal progress over the past decade, according to Celene’s explanation.

All these revelations delivered an unimaginable shock to her.

The fact that Hero Kaiser’s soul, believed to have been completely annihilated, still existed was shocking enough. The existence of a military automaton itself was unknown, and the research on souls alone was enough to cause significant ripples if word got out.

During the process, upon sensing the immense power within the girl, there was a gut feeling that something wasn’t right—but no one could have predicted just how far-reaching it would be.

Realizing she had become involved in something monumental she shouldn’t have meddled with, fear for the future crept in. However, simultaneously, her mind was consumed by fascination with the immense power she had inadvertently acquired, along with a budding ambition.

On the topic of why the military automaton took the form of a young maiden, Celene’s response at the time was absurdly memorable:

“It just so happened we were testing whether transferring a soul into the most obedient type of mechanical doll—a maid model—would reduce resistance intensity.”



Though, the result was a complete failure…”

Celene’s expression of helplessness while explaining how the powerful will of the hero likely obliterated the original consciousness of the maid model was still vivid in her memory.

However, that experiment conducted by Celene back then played a decisive role in shaping her current plans. Reflecting on it now, the fact that Kaya, then disguised as a maid, turned out to be almost like divine intervention for her strategy.

“When I first entrusted that child to Her Imperial Highness, I was quite anxious. Now, though, she has become such a gentle and kind mechanical maid that not even traces of that cruel hero remain…

Thanks to this, I’ve made considerable progress in my soul research, so I don’t regret the decision back then.

But regarding your current plan… well, I can’t say I particularly recommend it.”

After concluding her long reminiscence and returning to reality, Celene expressed her concerns in a worried tone.

Similarly ending her reminiscence, Yuria narrowed her eyes at the sight of her reaction.

It seemed the main discussion was about to begin.

Indeed, the success or failure of her upcoming plans hinged on this moment—the need for the assistance of the demon race before her, specifically the power of the Four Heavenly Kings.

If she could secure the invitation somehow, the rest would be her solo stage, so Yuria resolved herself and spoke confidently.

“It seems we’re finally getting to the main point. As I mentioned in my previous letter, I’m confident. Just as you’ve observed, that child is now a perfect prisoner who cannot survive without me.

She looks only to me and yearns solely for my love… my adorable, one-and-only maid.

Moreover, even if events ahead awaken the hero’s self-awareness, I can control it. Unlike the near-miss control achieved 10 years ago, my abilities have continuously grown beyond their limits.”

“True, I acknowledge that. But you’re underestimating the danger of the monster sleeping inside her.

This could be an unparalleled perfect card if used correctly, but it’s also a double-edged sword that could lead to total destruction with a single lapse in vigilance.

Even with minor shocks, she might manage, but the path you intend to take from here… no matter how lucky you are, it’s bound to be bloody.

Dangerous moments are inevitable. And perhaps in the worst-case scenario, our Demon Race might face the Worst Monster once again.”

The light-hearted demeanor from earlier vanished as Celene, one of the Four Heavenly Kings, stared resolutely at the young demon before her.

And indeed, her caution was justified.

For someone inexperienced who had never faced the unprecedented Worst Hero to claim they could fully control an overwhelming force comparable to the current Demon Emperor…

Had the roles been reversed, Yuria herself would have rejected such reckless attempts outright. Any rational person would instantly refuse without much deliberation.

Yet, she extended such a bold proposal for one reason alone:

Because the demon standing before her was already far beyond normal parameters—an extraordinary entity outside the realm of common sense.

“…I know. It’s not easy. If I falter even slightly, I’ll meet death without a chance.

But you must understand too. Even if we continue living quietly like mice while clinging to this fragile peace, it’ll only last as long as Mother firmly holds the throne.

Inevitably, the issue of succession will arise, and the royal power struggle practically foreordained will soon begin. This peace will vanish in an instant.

They won’t leave someone like me, who is practically the sole blemish of the royal family, untouched.

So, if my fate is ultimately decided by someone else’s hand, I’d rather raise my sword first.

Living a prolonged life like a ticking time bomb isn’t for me—I prefer pursuing a short but impactful life.”

Yuria gazed at the Four Heavenly King watching her while recalling them in her mind.

Since childhood, her siblings had viewed her existence as a thorn in their side, ready to pounce at any sign of weakness.

Though currently preoccupied with expanding their own influence and monitoring each other, when the time comes, they will hesitate not a second before drawing weapons against one another.

Naturally, she would be their primary target in such a situation, and her demise would serve as the opening salvo of a long and disgraceful conflict recorded in history.

Without any solid backing, distinct military strength, or political allies, the half-blooded princess awaited nothing but an ignominious end forgotten by all.

Thus, to change this pitiful conclusion and exact revenge on those who belittled her, she couldn’t afford to falter here.

“Besides, if my proposal were utterly absurd and nonsensical, you wouldn’t have come here personally, Lady Celene.

Honestly, you’re intrigued, aren’t you? By my abilities, the limits of these magic eyes, and the true potential of the military automaton possessing the hero’s power.”

“Hmm…”

“Simultaneously, my journey and its process will provide meaningful research data for your soul exploration.

It’s a gamble with risks beyond imagination but returns equally matched.

…Precisely the kind of situation you enjoy most.

Ultimately, based on all these speculations, I carefully deduce that your presence here is solely to assess my resolve.

Am I… wrong?”

Her conclusion drawn from analyzing the character of the Four Heavenly King she’d known for so long. Though Yuria stated it with near certainty, a shred of worry lingered internally, causing her to maintain a stern expression as she awaited Celene’s response.

Fortunately, Celene’s reply confirmed her deduction was correct.

“Ho… ho ho. Who would’ve thought Her Majesty had such detailed insights into me.

You’re absolutely right. If I hadn’t been interested from the start, I wouldn’t have come here.

Your formidable magic eyes fueled by unyielding determination, the persistent will of the hero whose body has vanished… which will prevail in the final moment?

I can hardly contain my curiosity just imagining it. Plus, this is a golden opportunity to test the power of that child I created.”

With eyes brimming with madness, Celene showed no signs of considering the possibility of failure.

Slowly moving past Yuria towards the garden exit, Celene tilted her head slightly and cast a seductive glance backward, hinting at her intentions.

None other than the answer she had been waiting for all along.

“…I’ll procure the invitation within the stipulated timeframe, so please don’t worry too much.

Will that place become your grave, or an unexpected rebellion no one foressees?

I’m truly looking forward to it. I earnestly hope you survive this time as well to satisfy my interest.”

Moistening her crimson lips with her tongue beneath the moonlight and flashing a bewitching smile, Celene departed shortly thereafter.

Alone once more, Yuria remained there for a long while.

As night deepened,

The red eyes of the determined princess burned brighter than ever with a dark flame.