Chapter 14: The Demon King’s March

The Royal Feast and L's Choice

At lunchtime, a long royal table filled with exotic dishes is set up in the grand hall of the Auxilian Kingdom.

The table is filled with a variety of delicacies—grilled sky fish, roasted beasts, and vibrant fruit-like creatures that glow softly.

The Auxilian King stands and proudly announces,

Auxilian King: "These meals are brought to us by our best hunters. Please, enjoy this feast as a token of our gratitude."

Everyone eagerly begins serving themselves.

Gray takes a large bite of a roasted beast's leg.

Bolt chows down on something that crackles with electricity.

Lisa, however, notices that L remains seated without touching his food.

Then, without a word, L stands up.

L: "I won't be eating today. My stomach is already full."

He walks out of the hall.

The room falls into silence.

Everyone exchanges confused looks.

Flair (raising an eyebrow): "Since when does L refuse food?"

Crycelia (whispering to Lisa): "Is it because the creatures were hunted?"

Lisa doesn't know how to respond.

---

Gray and Lisa Confront L

After the meal, everyone resumes their duties.

Gray and Lisa search for L and find him standing alone on a balcony, gazing at the sky.

Gray: "L, what's the deal? Why didn't you eat?"

Lisa: "Is it really because the creatures were hunted?"

L smirks slightly but doesn't turn around.

L: "You will understand in the future."

Gray sighs.

Gray: "Man, you're always so cryptic."

Lisa, still curious, nods but doesn't push further.

L then walks away, heading to his chambers for some rest.

---

Gray Trains the Auxilian Army

While L sleeps, Gray and his team begin training the Auxilian soldiers.

They introduce new battle formations and war strategies to prepare them for future attacks.

Bolt teaches them speed-based movement and lightning reflexes.

Flair helps them master long-range fire techniques.

Brock reinforces their ground defenses.

Lisa and Lyra train healers in rapid recovery methods.

The Auxilian warriors adapt quickly, showing great potential.

Gray, watching them improve, nods with satisfaction.

Gray: "If we keep this up, they might actually stand a chance."

---

The Demon King Prepares for War

Far from the kingdom, in a dark palace surrounded by lava and ominous shadows, the Demon King sits on his throne, sharpening his divine axe.

A massive figure with glowing red eyes approaches and kneels.

It is one of the four Commanders of the Demon Army.

Demon Commander: "My Lord, the army is ready. We await your command."

The Demon King lets out a terrifying laugh.

Demon King: "Good. It's time to destroy those weaklings."

He stands, gripping his massive Axe of Destruction.

Demon King: "We march now. Burn everything to the ground!"

With that, the Demon Army begins their march towards the Auxilian Kingdom.

The earth trembles beneath their footsteps.

---

The Wind Blade is Pulled

Back at the Auxilian Kingdom, the King gathers everyone at the sacred shrine.

A mighty stone pedestal stands before them, with the legendary Wind Blade embedded deep inside.

The King's son is already struggling to pull the sword out, his face tense with effort.

Prince (gritting his teeth): "Why… won't it… budge?"

L, watching from the side, steps forward.

L: "You're using too much force. Strength alone won't move it."

The Prince looks up at him, panting.

L: "Focus on your inner self. Feel the energy within you. Let it merge with the sword's power."

The Prince closes his eyes.

A soft wind begins to swirl around him.

He takes a deep breath, channeling his inner strength.

Suddenly, the Wind Blade glows with radiant emerald light—and slowly, it rises from the pedestal.

The Prince pulls it free.

The entire kingdom erupts into cheers.

The King smiles with relief.

King: "The Wind Blade has chosen its wielder!"

But before they can celebrate further, a messenger rushes in, his face pale.

Messenger: "Your Majesty! The Demon Army is approaching! They're coming to attack the kingdom once again!"

Silence falls over the crowd.

Everyone's expressions harden.

L turns his gaze towards the horizon, his golden-brown eyes flashing.

L (softly): "The real battle is about to begin."

---

To Be Continued…