CH 18

Chapter 18 – New Companions

Alfred set foot on the uninhabited island and looked around. He was overwhelmed by the vastness of nature and even felt dizzy. Well, there’s no doubt that there’s too much greenery compared to the Dvorak Empire. When I first washed up here, I was worried whether I would survive.

Living here, for some reason, made me gain new companions – I didn’t expect that even my former butler to come. But still…

“How’s my father doing, Alfred?”

“His Majesty the Emperor deeply regretted having exiled Young Master. He thinks that maybe he shouldn’t have exiled the son of the former Demon King from the Empire.”

“Is that all? Also, stop calling me Young Master.”

“This is an old story, but it seems that there was a secret agreement between the ancient Dvorak Empire and the Demon King.”

Alfred said with a stern expression and a heavy tone… A secret agreement, huh. It’s understandable that I didn’t know about it since it was a secret, but did the Empire really have a relationship with the Demon King? I mean, was there really a Demon King?

――No, I remember.

When I was a child, my father used to tell me a story when he put me to sleep about a legendary tale called the “Holy Demon War”, which was written in a book called the World Bible, a book stored in the Dvorak Empire.

I never thought it was true, though…

“So, I’m the son of the Demon King, then?”

“There is no doubt, but His Majesty also said that he would keep it a secret until Rasty-sama came of age.”

Oi, oi, isn’t the promise different? My father said it when I was being exiled. It was too much of a shock. But it doesn’t matter now, I don’t care. I don’t have any power or skill of a Demon King. Unfortunately, I’m not much different from an ordinary human.

But what about now? I’ve been given power by a mysterious voice named Havamar. What if…what if Havamar is the Demon King… it would make sense for him to help me and give me power. Maybe it’s time to ask.

“I see. I understand. But I won’t return to the Empire anymore.”

“W-what…”

“Right now, I’m enjoying this life. Besides, I want to make this island my ‘country’ someday. Fortunately, it boasts quite a large area. I think a population of 10,000 people would be no problem. It’s perfect as an island country.

“Rasty-sama… I understand. This Alfred is Rasty-sama’s butler and has pledged allegiance to him for the rest of his life, so I will assist you until the very end. Please make use of these old bones of mine.”1

Alfred placed his hand on his chest and bowed his head politely. He has the pride of a butler. Ever since I was little, he has served me well, supporting me with all his might through both good and bad times. In a way, he is closer to a real father figure for me. I need him too.

I have decided.

When I welcome Alfred to this uninhabited island.