Tinkle—.

What, another intruder today? Man, the life of a Demon King is exhausting. I didn't understand at first why they keep attacking when they can't win anyway. Things like honor and wealth that humans pursue are all useless in the face of death. I didn't think it was something worth risking one's life for. Are they not afraid of death? Is it because of resentment? What does resentment even mean? A lingering feeling and a complaint... or perhaps it could mean a desperate longing. I don't know, which one are you today?

Heave-ho. After leisurely enjoying my black tea on the throne, I stepped down. The bitter taste lingering in my mouth feels like my sensory cells are screaming at me to do the job given to me today. It's really a bother. Why do they keep coming to find a Demon King who has already declared retirement? I'm neither evil nor good anymore. Ah, are they challenging me to build up their achievements or something? Maybe so. But even five members of the first-generation hero party couldn't win. They were the golden generation, though. Well, it's annoying, but I should head out to fulfill my duties as the Demon King.

With those thoughts, I watched the maze you probably just entered. I see you over there. What is that little thing planning to do? It looks like all you have are a few potions and a sword. You have a lot of wounds on your body, too. But then again, I have no intention of killing humans. You don't want to die either, right? Yeah, yeah. Today, I read the usual scripted lines.

O intruder of the Demon King's Castle, if you turn back now, I shall not harm you.

I chuckled slightly afterward. It was so funny seeing the hero glaring as if they wanted to kill me that I did it without realizing. But I quite liked that look in your eyes. It's been a while since a hero worth dealing with has shown up. I flapped my massive, grand wings and approached you.

Ah, you. Your attribute is... Light? I see. Your stats are quite decent. But so what? Even a retired Demon King is still a Demon King. You know the saying, right? Legends never die. I am the legend, and you... are someone who dares to covet my crown without knowing your place.

I grew even more amused seeing you draw your sword. I'll be changing that heavy armor into high-quality silk soon, so look forward to it. It's already too late to regret how twisted your life has become.

Since I seem to be the abyss, I hope you'll be the one to crumble.