18: Work
After the battle, a heavy stillness settled over the palace grounds. The once-mighty Demon Council, warriors feared across the realm, now lay defeated—completely subjugated. Their curiosity about their king had been satisfied in the most absolute way possible.
Anos stood amidst the remnants of their clash, his aura unshaken, his expression unreadable.
And yet, amidst the fallen, there was only one who remained standing.
Iris.
She had not lifted a finger throughout the entire ordeal—because she hadn't needed to.
Her gaze lingered on her master, her violet eyes gleaming with something that resembled amusement. She had always been able to see what others could not—to sense the shifting tides in Anos's temperament.
And what she saw now, was unmistakable.
Boredom.
Anos's voice confirmed it, utterly devoid of enthusiasm, carrying a tone of disinterest so absolute that it was almost comical.
"Iris, I've been held in this palace for too long. Are there no tasks to complete?"
His steps did not slow, nor did he turn to look at her as he passed by. It was as if the battle behind him had already faded into irrelevance.
Without hesitation, Iris followed.
Her voice, ever calm and poised, carried the weight of duty as she responded,
"Master, there are countless matters awaiting your attention. For one, you have yet to formally meet the nobles of your empire. There are political engagements that demand your presence. You must establish relations with neighboring realms to strengthen alliances."
Anos felt a deep, sinking sensation in his chest—the crushing weight of bureaucratic drudgery.
Political meetings? Diplomatic relations? Nobles?
How utterly boring.
"Fine. Give me a full report on the state of the empire over the past years," Anos commanded, his voice smooth yet laced with quiet authority.
Iris bowed slightly, her fingertips glowing with a faint violet hue as she conjured a holographic screen of swirling purple energy.
Text etched itself onto the shimmering surface, forming an intricate report—her meticulous documentation of the empire's progress in his absence.
As Anos's ruby eyes skimmed the contents, Iris's melodious voice accompanied the glowing projections.
_________
Empire Status Report
Prepared by: Iris De Luna
For: His Majesty, Anos De Luna
1. General Overview
Master, under my stewardship, the Demonic Empire has thrived in your absence. Our territories have expanded, internal stability has been reinforced, and the economy has surged to unprecedented heights. Your name alone continues to inspire awe and terror, ensuring obedience among the nobility and the lesser realms.
However, as expected, not all submit willingly. A faction of aristocrats, clinging to outdated ideals, resents my rule. Their whispers of dissent remain just that—for now.
2. Economy & Trade
Wealth has tripled, bolstered by controlled trade with lesser realms.
The northern Abyssal Mines have uncovered rich veins of Abyssal Ore, strengthening our weapons and armor production tenfold.
The black markets, once a den of unchecked anarchy, are now regulated—allowing us to control illicit dealings while profiting from them.
3. Military Strength & Expansion
Our forces remain undefeated—a testament to your legacy and the discipline instilled in your armies.
The Crimson Vanguard, our most elite battalion, has successfully conquered three realms, integrating them into our dominion.
Several beastkin clans have pledged loyalty, offering both warriors and rare resources from their lands.
4. Nobility & Internal Affairs
Most nobles remain obedient, understanding the price of defiance under your reign.
However, a small but wealthy faction of aristocrats—primarily from ancient houses—harbor resentment toward my governance.
They deem my rule too merciful, believing that power should be wielded with ruthless force.
Their influence is limited, but their financial assets could prove disruptive if left unchecked.
I have applied strategic pressure, keeping them from acting openly—but their patience wears thin.
5. Relations with Other Realms
The Draconic Kingdom has formally requested an audience, though their true intentions remain uncertain.
The Celestial Kingdom, ever reluctant to acknowledge our sovereignty, has sent spies into our realm. Their movements have been noted, but they have yet to act.
The Abyssal Warlords remain neutral—though whispers suggest some may seek an alliance.
6. Notable Concerns
The Noble Resistance has grown bolder, though they remain cautious.
A mysterious force, yet to be identified, has been targeting key supply chains from the shadows.
The Ancient Human Kingdoms have begun fortifying their borders, likely anticipating an invasion.
___________
As the final lines of the report settled on the glowing screen, Iris let the projection dissolve into shimmering violet mist.
Her lips curled into a knowing smile. She had already predicted the path he would take, yet she posed the question regardless, savoring the inevitable response.
"Your return solidifies the empire's dominance, Master. With your presence, any lingering doubt among the nobility and the outside realms will be extinguished."
Her voice dropped into a soft, reverent murmur. "Your next move will determine whether we crush dissent immediately or allow our enemies to further expose themselves before striking."
She took a step closer, tilting her head slightly.
"What are your orders, Master?"
A slow, unsettling smile stretched across Anos's lips—an expression brimming with something dark, something hungry.
He had anticipated this report to be filled with tedious, bureaucratic details, the kind that drained the very essence of excitement from existence. But instead, it had gifted him something far greater—a reason to be entertained.
The dullness in his voice was no more. In its place, pure exhilaration.
"Iris, the next step should be obvious..." His crimson eyes gleamed, burning with anticipation. "We're going to punish our enemies. And if we're fortunate—" he exhaled, as if savoring the mere thought, "this might even lead to war."
The words sent a shiver down Iris's spine. Her violet eyes widened, her mind racing with the possibilities.
If only she had known her Master's desires, she would have provoked their enemies long ago—laid the groundwork for conflict, a battlefield ripe for his amusement, waiting for his return.
Her lips parted, her tone laced with both admiration and regret.
"Master, if only I had realized sooner… I would have already set the stage for war, so that the moment you arrived, you could have indulged in the chaos."
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Edit:
Dear Readers,
I sincerely apologize for not being able to write today. Unfortunately, an unexpected illness has left me needing some rest. I truly appreciate your patience and understanding, and I'll make sure to try and compensate for this, tomorrow.
Thank you for your support!