It is a large venue. It's used for all kinds of events, including live performances by artists and idols.
　The place was packed to capacity.

　We were invited by the organizer to sit in the front row.

　The reason why this "secret" event still attracts so many people is probably due to the guests.
　All of the adventurers and demons revealed are famous people.

　They have countless fans all over the world and it seems that they are going to do something together...just because they say that they are going to do something...that's enough to make many people curious.

　The ones who came to watch from the 'Impregnable Demon King's Castle' were that Demon King, the Four Heavenly Kings, his staff and his secretary.

　Agares-san and Mira-san are on either side of the Demon King, with Fulkus-san beside Agares-san and me beside Mira-san. Mr. Citry is beside Mr. Fulkus.
　Mr. Citry, Mr. Flucas, Mr. Agares, Mr. Demon King, Mira, me, and Kash.

You're not going to be able to find out the reason why I have to accept the invitation of a man like that, my dear.

　The Demon King crosses his legs on the seat and looks pissed off.

　Long hair that reminded me of burning heat, and eyes of the same color. And both black horns.
　Incidentally, her hair today was in twin-tails. In addition, since she was wearing a dress, she looked like a dainty little girl coupled with her small body, but she was the lord of the Demon King's Castle.

　The reason our king is angry is because the organizer of the event is--Fellow-san.
　In order to change the perception of dungeon capture that demons are evil, he plans to establish a new competition and abolish dungeon capture - the Demon King's father.
　That means he's also my teacher's son.

　As Agares-san and Mira-san managed to appease the Demon King-sama, the lights in the hall went out.
　Instead, only the stage set up at the back of the hall was illuminated by a dazzling light.

　To my right, Kash's ears twitched as he looked excited. It's getting dark and I'm a little nervous, and he's holding onto the sleeve of my dress.

　To my left, Mira intertwined her own hand in mine, as if to match the change in lighting.
　Her upturned gaze radiates a demonic charm that melts the will of all resistance.

''Ever since peace came to the world, I've been bringing enthusiasm to the continent--Dungeon Attack.

Oh, it's Maru's voice.

　Mila-san mutters softly.
　The voice echoing in the hall was indeed that of the third place party's [Summoner] Margrethe-san.

　For us, she was also a companion we fought with in the original dungeon attack not long ago.　　
　There was a huge screen behind the stage, and images were projected on it.

　It was a combination of footage of adventurers attacking various dungeons.
　An 'Oh...' voice leaked out from the already heightened audience.

''But haven't you ever thought of this?　What would happen if that adventurer and that adventurer fought?　Who is stronger, that demon or that demon?''

　The top-ranked adventurers were shown in a flash, and then the famous demons in the high-level dungeons were shown next.

　The Four Heavenly Kings of the Demon King's Castle and me were also shown. The Demon King only appeared for a moment during a raid battle, but it was shown perfectly.
　The moment I, Remegaton, appeared in the picture, Kash looked at me with shining eyes. I smiled and nodded.

''-or have you ever imagined something like this?　It's called 'Where is the best party of all time, where is the best party of all time? The one that says, 'Who is the strongest demon?

　After the images including [Indomitable Brave] Altrito-san and [Storm Brave] Aerial-san, there was a series of fierce figures that greatly tormented their mentors and past adventurers.
　I found myself unable to take my eyes off the screen.

''In the end, we will definitely think like this at least once - in the end, who is the strongest (,,,,,,) who is the strongest (,,,,,,) who is the strongest.''

　I could feel the whole hall gasp.

''Let's decide on that (,,,,,,,,,,,,,)''

　A puff of smoke erupted from the stage floor.

　When it disappeared, we had a dream.

　No, no.
　We saw a dreamlike scene.

"I hereby announce that the festival to determine the strongest of our time is here...!

　From the smoke, what emerged was--''


''The 'Phantom First Place Party' [The Indomitable Hero] Altrito Party led by Altrito!


''Overwhelmingly the first place party,'' ''Aerial Party led by Aerial, the brave men of the storm!


"And what a living legend, the long lost 'undefeated absolute sovereign' [Demon King] Lucifer!　And even the demons who once served him...!


　A mentor.

　I have a mentor.

　Huh?
　Huh?
　What?

　I'm not surprised about the fact that he was able to hide his magical reactions perfectly. He's a master.
　Attending an Aerial Party or Altrito Party is not a heightened experience.

　But, um, Master, um.........
　I haven't heard anything........

　No, I guess I don't need my student's permission.
　Master doesn't even look at me.

　A little late, I looked at the Demon King-sama.
　Demon King Lucy was also looking at me.
　We shook our heads at each other.
　Apparently, she hadn't said anything to her grandchildren as well as her disciples.

''Ah, that man how do you think your grandfather........ d*mn, let's go.''

　With that, the Demon King's military leaders nodded and followed the Demon King-sama as he stood up.

　Kash was a bit flustered, not really understanding, and squeezed the hand I held out to him and followed.

　The audience had already all stood up and cheered.

　According to the guest information released beforehand, the second-ranked Ex Party, the third-ranked Helvall Party, the fourth-ranked Fenix Party, the fifth-ranked Skaha Party, and other top-ranked parties will be here as well.

　Normally, they are too busy, and that's something that would not attract a top-notch party if it wasn't for the raid warfare level of work.
　But considering the nature of this project, everyone would be kicking all the work to get together. The people who get kicked off will not mind at all and will be looking forward to it as an audience member.

　As I passed through the official side entrance, a woman in a suit was waiting for me.
　The woman who bowed condescendingly has two horns - a demon.

''Long time no see, Miss.

Irene.

　If you ask me, she is and always has been Mr. Fellow's secretary.

'It is a pleasure for Irune to see the young lady again.

State your business.

'You used to be like a big sister to me...'

Not until you're with him. What do you want?

　Miss Irune looked forlorn for a moment, but quickly explained.

''Your husband has instructed me to prepare your costume for you.

It's a calculation. All right, I'll take you there.

This way.

　We'll follow.

Oh, um Leme.

　Kash's anxious face. I smile to reassure him, and then speak.

　The Demon King and his father don't get along a bit well with each other.
　Maybe dad wanted the current Demon King's army to appear on stage as well, but I thought he would have refused if I asked him normally.

　But the adventurer's side made the former first rank and the current one appear, and the former Demon King's Army from the demon's side.
　And yet, the absence of the current Demon King's army was not cool.

　The demon king-sama decided to go on stage with everyone immediately - in that case, he could only hide his identity with a light disguise - his father knew that would happen, so he prepared a demon costume for the demon. I was.

'Nah, I see........sir!

　Well, it's possible that Fero-san was keeping it under wraps as a surprise for his daughter.
　No matter how much they don't get along, if he listened to his master, the Demon King would have been inclined to go up on stage.

　........very possible.

　We divided into men and women and changed into our clothes and hurried to the side of the stage under Irune's guidance.
　The costumes were not only perfectly designed, but also perfectly sized, and that was a bit eerie.
　Mr. Ferro's ability to gather information is a thing to be feared.

Are you okay, Fu-chan?　That guy who was there earlier was...

Hmm. I'm fine.

　To Sitry-san's caring voice, Fulkus-san responded with the same flat voice as always.
　That's right, the previous [Kariasuki Knight] Fulkas was also standing on the stage with his master.
　He was a former Four Heavenly Kings of the Demon King's Army who had retired after entrusting his armor and spear to the current generation.

　........Incidentally, Flukas-san is currently dressed in a special outfit that he wears when boarding the armor.

　It's a tight costume that clearly shows the line of his body and resembles a one-piece swimsuit.
　It also has long socks that cover up to the thighs, and although the skin is supposed to be rather less exposed than usual, you can't help but notice it.

　At that moment, Mr. Fulkus put his fingers between the fabric and the skin, stretched the fabric, and released it with a snap. It was near the buttocks, and a feeling of guilt swirled in my chest, as if I had seen something I shouldn't have seen.

I'm not going to be able to get rid of it. Mu, the chest part is tight........

　Mira-san says in a slightly deliberate tone.
　However, at those words, my attention is diverted to the place she indicated.

　I immediately try to deflect it, but in that brief moment, Carmilla's sensational costume is burned into my eyes.
　It's from playing with the belt-like part that supports her breasts in a squeaky appealing way... no, now is not the time to think about that.

'Time is of the essence, vampire.

I can't.........say it back.

　Agares-san's cold gaze caused Carmilla to blush while looking frustrated.

''A disciple who directs his evil gaze at his master's ass will need to be punished later.

　Fulkas-san's jittery gaze pierces me.

''Eh ... no ... um ... I'm sorry.''

Just kidding. I don't care.

'Hey, hey Le.......Chief of Staff. Can I see Citry too?　I think it's still outstandingly pretty today.

　Citry-san's demon costume is based on the image of a maid's outfit, since the fifth level is the unique concept of the Dream Demon's Maid Café.

　Speaking of maids, the centaur [hunter] Kay-san who works in the "Beginner's Dungeon, the Beginning" is another one, but it's different from the tight-fitting one over there.

　How should I put it, a modification for the sake of cuteness?　There are ribbons and hearts encrusted with ornaments and deliberate gaps in the costume... and skin is visible in places.

　Her pink hair, tied in two today, is fluffily curled.
　A heart-shaped hair grows out from near the center of the lacy catsuit, and she also wears a hairpiece in the shape of a cat-like creature.

　Of course, the horns, wings, and tail, which are the tribal characteristics of the Dreamer, are still intact.

''Huh, you two?　Don't tease Master Remeghton too much.

You too.

Agares, you need to be quiet for a minute.

　Carmilla with a twitch in her cheeks and Kash who looks somewhat shabby.

　Speaking of which..........and I tell her "that outfit looks good on you today".
　It's an event, so Kash wore a new outfit.

''Oh, thank you very much........!

　Seeing a smile on Kash's face, I'm relieved to see a smile on his face, and I feel relieved.
　After all, a smile is more suitable for Kash.

　Seeing our exchange, the demon king who had a thoughtful face until then - smiles brightly.

''Huh........hahaha!　That's my guy. I'm not going to be able to say that I'm not going to be able to do anything about it. I'm proud to be here with you guys.

Ha....!　What a waste of time!

　Mr. Agares dropped to one knee and bowed his head, but everyone, including the Demon King, continued to walk on.

'You are exaggerating, Agares. Come on now.

As you wish.

　Agares-san 'moves in space' one step behind the Demon King.

''It's Remegeton.''

Yes, sir.

You know what I mean?

Yes.

　As expected of the Demon King, or should I say the Demon King, he seems to have seen through it.
　I can't seem to get my head around it.

　It's not the first time I've seen Fulkus-san's outfit, either.
　Carmilla's is also not the first time I've seen Sitri's outfit.

　If your mind was switched to a combat mode, if you were focused, you wouldn't be moved, even if your opponent was completely naked. An opponent would have been able to calmly ponder his intentions and advantages.

　The Demon King called those on the stage his enemies.

　Yes.
　The enemy, that is.

　The pinnacle of all adventurers, the adventurers of today, including the Aerial Party.
　Legendary adventurers, including the Altriet Party, who used to stick to the video board (TV) and terminals and look forward to their activities.
　Likewise, the demons who are active in dungeons around the world, or who were active in the past.

　There is nothing wrong with thinking of them as enemies or opponents.
　I'm both an adventurer and a demon.

　But, yes, I'll admit it.
　To me, my master is not someone who is included in that frame of reference.

　Of course, I recognize him as the strongest demon king. I've seen the video of the raid battle where he went out to the first layer and defeated the most powerful people, including Aerial-san, and I've seen it too.
　But to me, my master is.........my master.

　It's different from Fourcas-san, who learned the sword after becoming a colleague.
　I have to say that I owe a great debt of gratitude to him for training me, for giving me black magic, for giving me my horns.
　I was aiming to be the best in the world. Of course, I had imagined stepping through the Demon King's Castle.
　But this is not the only one, actually.

　I've never had any fantasies, only that I and my master would fight and I would win.
　I can't say I know more than anyone else, but I've studied up close and personal with my master more than anyone else.

　Thinking about it, it's probably a rather healthy thought, like going beyond the master. I heard that in some circles, it is called repaying the favor by playing a bigger role than one's teacher.
　But--

'Think about what all of us who were there are looking for, and that's all you need to do.

I'm not sure...

　The Demon King's words made me huff and puff.
　That's right.

　It's that master.
　There's no way he'd attend an event he wasn't interested in.

　It's not just that master. The people who were there and everyone who will appear on the stage from now on are the same.

　What they are seeking is a fierce battle against a powerful enemy and proof of their strength.
　Master doesn't bother to confirm the obvious. It's not his way of taking time to crush the weak.

　So, are you there?
　The enemy who makes him think he needs to prove himself the strongest.

　Blah, blah, blah, blah.

　I heard a fire in my heart.

　--I don't know who this is, but I'd hate to lose.

　If I can beat that person, even I - can I be my master's enemy?

'You look good.

　A satisfied demon king's voice.

'I'm wearing a mask.

　I regain my composure enough to make a joke.

'Phew.'

　The Demon King smiled a small smile and then put on a serious air.

I don't care what your plans are, there's no way I won't participate in this tournament. When it comes to deciding the strongest person, my demon king's army is the only one who will stand at the top.

　We, following behind the king, just nodded our heads. I know that we all share the same feeling.

''-- Let's conquer.''

　There was no one to block us as we reached the back of the stage.
　The people working backstage also opened up the way as if they were supposed to.

　--I wonder if Mr. Ferro has given them instructions.

　So much for Kash.

　She clenches both fists in front of her chest with a guffaw and cheers me on, "Good luck........" with just the movement of her mouth.
　I pat her head once and then head to the stage.

　It's like we're in the middle of explaining the rules.
　The first three groups?　No one has come out yet except for.

''This all-sky festival competition is just--?　We now have an unscheduled guest on stage........''

　Apparently, the big event of this century is called the All Heaven Celebration Competition.
　

　Either way, I should be grateful.
　All the powerful and not-so-powerful people I've been involved with in the past will gather at the same battlefield.
　It's a rare opportunity like this.

　Even if this is Mr. Fellow's way of doing away with dungeon conquest.
　Until we win and find a way to keep the dungeon attack alive.

''This is -- 'Holy Sword Crusher' [Demon King] Lucifer!　Behind her, the current Four Heavenly Kings of the Demon King's Army and their staffs are behind her...!　Hey, this has been tremendous!　What is going to happen to this celebration!''

　Maru, you're getting into the groove.

　There were many people who knew us from the raiding matches.
　The place was in full swing.

　My mentor is nearby.
　We hadn't seen each other since we left the village at the age of thirteen, so it had been more than seven years since we'd seen each other.

　I'm sure that when we leave this venue, the audience will share their various impressions with the world.
　Among them, the loss of my master's right horn is sure to be at the top of the list.
　You can imagine there will be a lot of speculation as to who took over.

　If the disciple repays the favor by surpassing the master.
　Disappointing a master is the most unlikely betrayal you can do.
　I won't let him think that I made a mistake by allowing him to inherit the horn of the most powerful demon king.

　◇

　It's my father on the projection board.

Look, Fran, it's Dad and everyone else. Wow, you've gotten old.

　Even after the party broke up, we were still good friends, and we occasionally went to the house.
　But once again, when I look at our party, I feel old.

Wraith, you look happy.

　My childhood friend Fran says something like that.
　For 【Lake's Brave】 Wraith, she's also one of his dependable friends.
　She's the best looking and prettiest girl who was born with a deformed right arm, a [Destroyer].

''That makes me happy. I have to thank my uncle for convincing my dad and everyone else. Thanks for convincing my dad and everyone else to do the same.

　I'm in a city, in a man's house.

"Fellowship.

'Oh yeah, that guy. I'm really grateful that he's giving me this opportunity following the raiding battle. It's perfect for a party unveiling--don't you think Melania would agree?

"....!　I think...........

　We were in a house that was a whole lot bigger in size.
　Even though we have the largest number of humans (normal), this is an era of coexistence.
　It's not uncommon to find a village with only humans (normal), but when it comes to cities, there are facilities for all kinds of species. This house is one of them.

　It's a large sub-human residence.

　She's a member of my party. Her race is Cyclops, but she's short for a giant, like a half-giant. By human (normal) standards, she's still pretty big though.
　The fluffy green hair reminiscent of a forest hides her hair, but behind it you can see her one eye, which is a characteristic of her race.



Of course. We're gonna win this thing together.

"....!　I'll do my best.........

　Melania is a self-confident or rather modest character, but she's sure of her abilities.
　It's a good thing that she applied for our membership on her own volition.

It's nice to meet you too--Joss.

　A tall, white-haired young man [White Mage] appeared in the living room with a mug of steam.

''I promise I'll do everything in my power. More importantly, are you really going to make that person the last one?

'That too, of course. At least this time, you'll be treated as a temp or whatever, and I'm sure you'll come in. The fifth person is--Reme.

　When he said that, Joss's face broke into a happy expression.

'I hope so.'

'Oh, by the way, I heard you and Reme fought together?　That's not fair.

Ha-ha, it was a very good experience.

I'm getting out.

　Fran tugs on my arm with a yank.
　Lately, when I talk about Leme, my cheeks puff out.

　When I looked back at the video board (TV), I saw that the current Demon Army had just appeared on stage.

　◇

We'll be there, right?

Of course. Of course, everyone who wants to participate will have a chance to participate in the preliminary round. I've heard that some of the legends who are the centerpiece of the tournament are treated as so-called 'bosses'.

　A room in the inn with a video board (TV) in each room.
　We, Nicola's party, are now gathered in the room of my brother, 【Vajra's Hero】Philippe.

"Hmmm, that's good!　I love this kind of festive atmosphere.

　[Bandit] Leila says happily.

''Isn't there going to be an [Ironclad Brave] as well?　Phil, I'm pretty sure you'd like that, wouldn't you?

　[Fairy] Luli says as she sways her little legs on her brother's shoulders, wobbling her little feet.

''Well I've heard about it too, I've told you that I long for it.''

　Marc, the [Clear White Knight], also said.

''Yes, but what's important in this celebration is that we remain until the battle with the 'boss'. The closer we get to the final battle, the more public interest will increase. Depending on how well you perform, you could be in line for a significant increase in your rankings next year.

　We chuckled at the brotherly way of saying it.
　Only Luli smiled, "I like that part," she said.

But you're right. It's a simple matter of winning and winning and winning. Simple.

　And if it comes true, Leme Lemeghton, I think.
　I want to fight with you again I want to compete with you.

　◇

Piggy, you're going to use this as your dungeon, aren't you?

　As I was watching the video board (TV) in my office, my childhood friend in a maid said.
　It's not a live broadcast, it's a summary of the video that is shown on the news.

''We have a contract to rent out the magic space, you know. Just in case it's not enough, they'll prepare an extra large magic stone each time it's not enough. And don't be a pig owner...''

The contract stipulates the amount of magic they can use, so I guess that's why. I'm sure he'll remember it, since I confirmed it myself. It's a good thing that you've overlooked it, but after all, he's the guy who almost lost his dungeon.

'Guh, don't say that...'

　I almost lost the dungeon that I inherited from my grandmother when I signed a contract without questioning Mr. Ferro, who lent me money there, and I almost lost the dungeon.
　It was everyone in the Demon King's Castle who saved me from that, especially the General Staff and Fulkus-dono.

''Basically, it's a party unit.......just like a tag team tournament, you can form a party of any race......that's a very manly plan. Oh, but with this, the current Demon King's Army........

Oh, if you're going to lead the Demon Lord, you can pick one person from the Four Heavenly Kings and their chiefs.

　Since it is a party unit, there must be a five-person limit.
　When it comes to maintaining the entertainment value, it's not a good idea to break the five-person system that was derived through various trials and errors.



Hmm?

We should be there.

'What...?　So, but... a lot of people are coming to town, and I think it's time to earn it for an 'all levels' dungeon.

They should only close the dungeon on the days we join. After all, you're the floor boss and I'm basically the deepest worker in the dungeon.　It's not hard to coordinate your schedule.

　It's true that if this is the first layer, there are some urgent reservations, but if this is the deepest layer, it's easier to plan for that because we know about the people who are advancing the attack beforehand.

''Nah, I see........''

You're not sorry, are you?　There have been even more challengers since the raid battle, but that's also thanks to Reme-sama's summoning of me. He would never think of it that way, but the debt just keeps piling up.

!

　You're right, you're right.
　I joined the raid fight to help him, and I don't think it didn't help.
　I did the best I could, and so did my friends.

　But I don't think we were able to repay the favor.
　I change my mind and look at my childhood friend.

I know. We should be able to win on our own, increase the number of customers and make people think that Remegaton is great, signing up with such a strong group of people.

　Kay huffed with satisfaction.

'Please don't stare at me, I don't feel good.'

You're really bad at this.

　However, I, who have known him for a long time, could tell that it was an insincere childhood friend hiding his embarrassment.
　........hiding embarrassment, right?

　◇

Well, you've got a lot of fun.

　I'm watching the TV in the bathroom while soaking in the bathtub.
　After participating in the raid, the attention of Elie and his party has increased.

　There was a lot of talk about the adventurer lending a hand to the demons, but I'll just have to ignore the noise.
　The raid battle was fun.

　I also met an interesting guy named Ren.......Remegeton.
　This is going to be fun too.
　The more stages you can shine on, the better.

'The next time I see you, will we be enemies or allies?

　It's still a mystery to me, I don't know what to expect.
　Hopefully, you'll experience both.
　I'm sure it's more fun that way.