The Banished Swordsman and the Easy-going Demon King ~Free people change the world~

In this world, there exist humans and those who are not quite human, the “demons.”

Feared by humans since ancient times, the demons eventually established their own nation. This nation, known as “Astia,” was ruled by a single Demon Lord through generations.

People feared the demons, the demon nation Astia, and the pinnacle of that, the Demon Lord. In the face of the occasional tyranny of demons, people could only lament their own helplessness.

However, a time of change arrived. Those born with abilities and those who would awaken them someday, regardless of the differences, humans who gained power comparable to that of the demons began to emerge all over the world. These individuals, praised for their “Radiant Blessing,” were called “adventurers” and “heroes” by those who lacked such power.

Their actions of vanquishing wicked demons became a symbol of hope for humanity. As time passed, a new Demon Lord came to power in Astia.

Their name was Gandalk, the embodiment of terror, destruction, and wickedness, hailed as the strongest and most sinister in history. In the shadow of this terrifying presence, the world trembled.

Amidst this, there were those who rose to the occasion. Hero Grein, called the world’s strongest, a man who had slain numerous demons. He and his companions headed to Astia to challenge Demon Lord Gandalk.

This was the ultimate battle between humans and demons. The fate of the world rested on this fight. After a fierce battle that spanned two days, the Demon Lord was vanquished by the hand of Hero Grein. Sacrificing his life, Hero Grein saved the world and the future of humanity.

And so, an era of peace, the first of its kind for the world, arrived.

“…Sorry, but could you leave our party?”

As these words were spoken, the atmosphere in the room turned icy. Even those at other tables who were chatting animatedly fell silent and directed their gazes towards the group that had spoken.

“Hey, aren’t those the guys…”

“Yeah, it’s the party led by Hero Merifis, no doubt.”

“Then who’s that guy over there?”

“What was his name again? I think…”

“Hey, Luct.”

Sensing the hushed voices from the surroundings, the blond man spoke up again.

“You don’t mind, do you?”

“Why are you so sure, Merifis?”

“Yeah, Merifis. Why…”

“Hey, Luct.”

Amid the silence, an intrusive whisper, unidentifiable as anyone in particular, flowed. But the very “Luct” did not avert his gaze from Merifis.

“Is there a problem?”

Merifis met Luct’s gaze head-on and replied in a calm voice.

“We know your skills, you know. They might not match up to mine, but your swordsmanship is top-notch. You can do well on your own, right?”

“That’s not what we’re talking about.”

The words were cut off, and Luct’s voice trembled slightly.

“Why are we doing this, Merifis?”

“Can I say it? Is it okay?”

“Why wouldn’t it be okay? Without any explanation, how can I possibly accept it? Just tell me!”

“Alright, I’ll tell you properly.”

With a small sigh, Merifis shifted his gaze away from Luct.

“…But, don’t complain later.”

“Alright, as long as it makes sense.”

“Deal.”

With that response, Merifis turned back to face Luct. However, the calmness that was present just moments ago had vanished completely.

“Luct.”

“What?”

“Are you a human or a demon?”