From birth, I have never gained anything, desired nothing, and known nothing. Unwanted by anyone, unknown to all, without even a thirst for life. A life that couldn’t even bear the Original Sin that most demons carry. No Sloth, no Greed, no Lust, no Wrath, no Gluttony, no Pride – nothing at all, not even meaning or will enough to live. Before seeking any positive value, I probably needed to reach zero first.
I was merely a negative existence.
A demon without wisdom or power is destined to merely sit and await death in the survival-of-the-fittest Demon World. Such demons are not rare at all – they overflow not just in the royal capital but in provincial cities as well. So, surely it was mere chance that I was able to escape from that situation. While there are many demons who lack even enough value to be taken by others, I suppose you could say I was lucky.
There was a man being dragged along. A man with a bored expression who said nothing and just let things happen. His well-tailored velvet-like black cloak dragged on the ground, becoming dirty and white. There was a woman doing the dragging. A woman who scattered flames like wildfire that made passersby tremble, walking while crushing the ground beneath her. The thunderous sound of her staff piercing the ground seemed to shout her anger in place of the silent woman. And there was me. Just at the roadside, without will or purpose, just happening to watch this scene. And there were my companions beside me, watching the same scene just as passively.
Neither the man nor the woman spared even a single glance at me or my companions, but just as they were about to pass by—the man’s left hand reached out and scooped up my body—a small, frail body that hadn’t eaten, undersized for my age— With movements as fluid as plucking an apple from a tree. My companions didn’t make a sound as I was taken away, and I couldn’t make a sound either.
I later learned that he had apparently wanted a pillow. What’s that about?
And so, through chance upon chance, I was picked up by the King of Sloth who sought me for my value as a conveniently-sized pillow, and through some twist of fate, I ended up being incorporated into the army of the Lazy Slaughterdoll. Needless to say, Lord Lazy was already asleep by the time he scooped me up.
What happened after isn’t such an interesting story.
After returning to the Slumbering Shadow Palace, I lost the survival competition against the pillow that was already being used in his regular sleeping quarters. Having lost that position, I was about to be incinerated due to the incredibly loud 『When did you bring in such a filthy thing?!』 from Kanon Iralord, who was both the inspector watching over Lord Lazy at the time and the leader of the Black Disciples. However, I was saved by the maid Lorna, who had extremely favorably misinterpreted Lord Lazy’s “yoha.”
Before I knew it, I was dressed in beautiful clothes like a doll would wear, and forcefully stuffed with food that had been prepared in case Lord Lazy, who never asks for seconds, might surprisingly request more. It was then that my thoughts finally caught up.
Wait? What is this? I wondered.
A demon’s desires are not something they decide for themselves. They automatically gain them through strong yearnings. Having multiple desires makes them become clouded, slowing the growth of a demon’s class. That’s why demons usually unconsciously regulate themselves to avoid harboring desires other than the one they pursue. What is the first strong yearning, the first powerful emotion, that a rock-bottom demon who barely had the luxury of staying alive would harbor after finally being given an environment sufficient for survival and the leisure to think?
What is this powerful emotion?
It isn’t relief at being saved, nor is it a virtuous prayer of gratitude for happiness, nor is it self-satisfying concern for the companions left behind.
Naturally, it certainly isn’t 『Lust.』
It is—envy.
A strong feeling of jealousy toward ordinary demons who have taken their ordinary lives for granted. Envy toward Kanon, who possesses magical power rivaling a Demon Lord and beauty like embodied flames, born as a Demon Lord’s daughter and serving as the elite leader of the Black Disciples. Envy toward Lorna, born into a family serving Lord Lazy for generations, receiving advanced education and honing her skills and power solely for that purpose. Envy toward Hard Lauder, who commands the army as the right hand of the King of Sloth, surpassing all powers and maintaining the king’s authority as supreme.
It envies and begrudges everything in this world, thinking:
『If possible, I want to take their place.』
That is my ruling sin of Envy, my reason for existence. Because I was given nothing, I envy everything and try to become it,
Darker than Gluttony More greedy than Greed More intense than Wrath More fickle than Lust More meaningless than Sloth More wicked than Pride
Nothing but ugly 『Envy.』
But the moment I gained this, I thought: Ah, finally, I have a reason to live.
With this, I can become someone else.
Episode 2
「What a disgraceful sight, having two commanders fall… forcing Lord Lazy to intervene… pathetic.」
The young man says, his cold eyes looking at us as if we’re garbage on the ground. He’s a handsome young man with eyes as dark as the abyss. Sitting deeply like a king with his legs crossed, his manner of looking down on us might be in poor taste, but he truly does appear regal. If you were to place Lord Lazy and this man side by side, ten out of ten people would identify this man as the king. At the same time, he is a pure warrior who has spent an eternity honing himself in accordance with his desire. Hard Lauder. The right hand of Sloth. The demon who governs Pride.
My head throbs with pain. This pain isn’t from anger towards this arrogant man.
「Wait, no… that Zebul Gracos was one of the most powerful Demon Lords under Lord Kanon… defeating her without a Demon Lord would have been too much.」💬 1
Says Kanon’s direct subordinate, seeming to scold us for the disrespectful act of dragging Lord Lazy into this.
Since we were saved by those insolent methods, I can’t say anything… I feel a stabbing pain from deep within my brain. I stroke my forehead again, as if to soothe it.
Hard responds to that gaze with a sardonic smile. His words are always filled with confidence.
「Hmph… that might be true for ordinary demons. But I’m saying it’s far too unseemly for someone who commands the army of the great King of Sloth. Liese Bloodcross.」
「How can you talk so big? Especially when you were the only one who didn’t deploy.」
「Indeed. I truly didn’t expect them to be this useless. Next time a Demon Lord attacks, I’ll go alone.」
He responds immediately, though with clear irritation.
There isn’t a hint of joking in Hard’s expression. Despite the fact that an army including two commander-class demons was defeated by a single Demon Lord, his eyes show no trace of anxiety or tension. He remains elegant. And above all, proud.
The demons of Pride are strong.
In fact, it’s said that about seventy percent of demons who reach Demon Lord status are demons of Pride. The losers are lower than dung, while the winners are equal to gods. And they consider themselves above even gods. That is the Original Sin of Pride. Demons who are cruel to the weak and weak against the strong – highly unstable, yet considered the most powerful.
All they seek are results, and regardless of the process, defeat means degradation.
Like other desires, the stronger they are, the more they lean into this tendency.
The last of the four people around the round table—Deji, who had lost most of his collection and his army, making him the biggest victim—speaks while examining the battle-worn Celeste:
「But ya know, Commander Hard. As Miss Liese says, Zebul the Glutton was in a league of her own among Demon Lords, with unbelievable power? Even for someone as proud and arrogant as yourself, it would’ve been difficult to ‘surpass’ her.」
「Hmph… you mean among the Demon Lords you’ve supported until now?」
「Kikikiki, yeah. If you’re asking about beings stronger than that… I can only think of Master Lazy and the Great Demon Lord.」
He responds with a wry smile. As an ancient demon, Deji’s words carry weight.
To begin with, Zebul Gracos the Glutton was undoubtedly among the top three most ferocious Demon Lords I’ve ever encountered. Her magical power, skills, and very nature are far beyond ordinary demons – she’s an absolute powerhouse. The rumors that she devoured soldiers of God during the war with the Heavens a thousand years ago don’t seem like mere rumors anymore, given her 「Gluttony.」
If I had that much power— Like sand falling through an hourglass, I feel something like mud accumulating in the depths of my mind. The weight is so immense it makes me dizzy.
Since reaching commander rank, I hadn’t experienced a single defeat until this war. After such a long time without defeat, I can’t suppress my impulses.
「Hmph, but our lord apparently defeated her with ease.」
「Kikikiki, well, that’s just what you’d expect from the Third Rank. Master Lazy is… a monster. The King of Gluttony was completely outplayed. After all, the master… didn’t even move.」
Deji’s words bring back memories of the battle between the Demon Lord and Lord Lazy. Indeed, Lord Lazy didn’t even stand up. …Though he did use teleportation skills I’d never seen before. Hard nods with a knowing look – his sharp, proud eyes acknowledging the statement.
「…Hmph, Sloth’s skills become stronger the less one moves… it was a choice befitting Lord Lazy.」
「I think that man probably wasn’t thinking about anything like that…」
「What other skills did our lord use? Can you tell me, Deji?」
Perhaps this explains why Hard can still maintain his pride? Just being here, I can painfully feel Lord Lazy’s magical power, even though he should be in his distant bedroom. The quantity and quality of this power is undoubtedly at a level unreachable by demons. Compared to commander-class demons like myself—or even Deji and Hard who should be stronger than me—the difference isn’t just tenfold or twentyfold.
「Kikikiki, even I couldn’t understand everything. Plus Liber got eaten…」
「…So Liber the Seeker was eaten… I had my eye on him… hmph.」
Hard closes his eyes once, as if saying it’s worthless.
Looking at his eyes, expression, and gestures of someone who doesn’t mourn death, Deji’s expression doesn’t change. Even when Liese’s expression clouds over, Deji’s expression doesn’t change at the loss of his comrade, Liber Agens. That must be the strength of Deji, a veteran demon who survived even the war with the Heavens.
—That strength just makes me envious.
Deji says Hard Lauder is a terrifying demon. Is he seeing something that I can’t? I’m the youngest demon here. Demons basically grow stronger and deepen their desires as they age. Deji reportedly experienced the war with the Heavens ten thousand years ago, and Hard Lauder has apparently been following Lord Lazy since ancient times as his first demon. The gap of years—just a few thousand years since my birth—is impossible for me to catch up to.
—That just makes me envious.
I grip my trembling arm tightly. Deji, without responding to Hard’s words, sheaths Celeste’s flame blade and stores it in his Vault of Greed. Higher-ranking magic swords are alive. Minor cracks repair themselves automatically.
「What I saw was… a skill that increased gravity, a teleportation skill… and then a skill of unknown nature that sent Zebul flying, that’s about it.」
「…Hmph… he was quite conservative with his skills.」
At Deji’s words, Hard furrows his brow and sighs. It’s the kind of emotion that shouldn’t normally appear on a demon of Pride. Resting his elbow on the table, he places his hand on his chin in deep thought, creating a scene worthy of being painted just as it is. Deftly crossing his six arms, Deji asks with a puzzled expression:
「Conservative…?」
「…Hmph. The power of Lord Lazy that I know isn’t just at that level. For one thing, he didn’t even use his ‘Slaughter Doll.’」
「Kikikiki, that’s true. But no matter how great the master is, I doubt dolls alone could defeat Zebul. In fact, the doll I received was torn apart and eaten.」
「…Don’t compare it to the doll given to you. Lord Lazy’s original Slaughter Doll is… supreme.」
Hard sneers. At Deji, at Liese, at me. This is probably a fact that only Hard, who has served Lord Lazy for far longer than I have, would know. And then Hard says those words:
「…Even more so than himself.」
「Huh? …No matter how you look at it, there’s no way a doll could be stronger than its creator, right?」
「…Hmph. For ordinary demons, that is.」
The Slaughter Doll skill is apparently a skill possessed by the Demon Lord of Sloth, so there’s almost no precedent for it. But the idea that someone could create something exceeding a Demon Lord’s power is beyond common sense.
Liese stares at Hard’s face with an expression of shock, as if checking for any sign of lies.
Hard Lauder is sane. At least, while he may be proud, his power is genuine, and he possesses not just skills but also intelligence and charisma. Without these qualities, he couldn’t command the First Legion, which has the largest number of troops.
「Kikikiki, if that’s true, it’s amazing. I’d love to have another one. But well, even if that’s the case… this time’s opponent was a Demon Lord capable of wounding the master, you know? I think it’d be too much for a doll that doesn’t even have an Original Sin skill.」
At those words, Hard’s eyes widen. He leans forward, fixing Deji with an intense stare. An outpouring of emotion strong enough to shake one’s soul.
「…Impossible… Lord Lazy was wounded… you say!?」
「…Yeah. Well, it was just a small amount of blood, and it healed right away.」
「…That’s enough… I see, so Zebul managed to wound Lazy of Depravity. Hmph, I understand now…」
「Is something strange about that? Even for a Demon Lord, they’d at least get wounded when fighting another Demon Lord… He was even complaining when you took him away earlier.」
At Liese’s question, Hard sighs and leans back deeply in his chair. He lets his gaze wander in the air, as if considering something.
「…Hmph, that’s normal for him. But well, someone capable of wounding Lazy of Sloth even slightly… it’s been two thousand years.」
「Two thousand years… there was someone else two thousand years ago?」
「Yes… someone you know well. But… never mind.」
As if declaring the conversation over, Hard stands up.
The overwhelming pressure released from his body—the magical power of Pride suddenly intensifies its density. His ice-cold gaze looks down on Deji and me. A world-consuming power that makes our bodies stiffen. At the change in atmosphere, Liese frowns, visibly grimacing as she stands up. If this had happened right after she was dispatched here, she would have been furious. Recently she seems to have learned to control her Wrath, and rarely burns rooms anymore.
「Wait…」
「…Hmph. Though it worked out in the end, you’ll pay the price for this disgrace. I’ll pass judgment later. Look forward to it.」
「Kikikiki, please go easy on us.」
「…Hmph.」
The door closes with a loud sound. As the air returns to normal, Liese speaks indignantly. Her hair flickers with crimson phosphorescence.
「That man… no matter what, that’s no way to treat allies—」
「Kikikiki, Miss Liese, you’re young. That’s just how Pride commanders are. Actually, we should consider ourselves lucky we weren’t executed on the spot.」
Deji stands up with a grin. As a demon who has lived far longer than me, his words carry the weight of experience. His six eyes look at me. I couldn’t understand the emotion in them.
「Miss Medea, I—have decided to leave this army.」
In a way, this was what I had expected. Despite his appearance, Deji is a rational demon. His desire, his greed, is directed at objects rather than people, making him far more trustworthy than other demons. It must have been unexpected for Liese, as she stands up again upon hearing these words.
「What… are you serious, Deji?」
「Yeah… if I stay here, I’ll end up being disposed of by Supreme Commander Hard. The right hand of Lazy of Sloth, supreme in Pride… kikikiki, it’s troublesome.」
「That’s absurd… how could a commander like you be allowed to do such a thing?」
「It’ll be allowed. After all, my desire—isn’t the kind that can only be satisfied here. I don’t know about you or Hard though.」
Immediate decision. Judgment. Deji’s words hit the mark. The desire of Greed is the kind that can be satisfied in any army. With Deji’s level of ability, he would be valued in any Demon Lord’s forces. Moreover, he even possesses a magic sword that made Zebul call it terrifying. And the latter part hit the mark as well.
My desire—「Envy」 can only be satisfied here.
My head hurts as if my brain has been wounded.
Deji knows when to withdraw. That’s probably how he survived even the war with the Heavens. His body, reason, thoughts, and desires—all tempered like steel. Ah, all of it—is enviable.
Kikikiki, Deji laughs with his familiar voice. And then he says something I never would have considered.
「Kikikiki, as a fellow survivor of the Zebul battle, let me ask you this? Miss, won’t you leave with me?」
「What… that’s—」
「Desire can be satisfied in more than one place. Kikikiki, you’re young. You should be able to live a better life than being disposed of by Hard…」
Liese frantically looks between Deji and me. As an inspector, discord in a Demon Lord’s army becomes their demerit. The Great Demon Lord’s Wrath would be directed at them. Even if it’s not their fault, it would be like touching a dragon’s reverse scale. No, it would be even more terrifying than a dragon.
「…I’ll persuade Hard Lauder. We can’t reduce the Great Demon Lord’s fighting strength.」
「Kikikiki, I appreciate the young lady’s proposal, but that’s impossible. Hard is… stronger than your Wrath. After all, he’s a demon who’s been alive since ancient times—when I was still just an ordinary demon. The ‘Superiority’ skill of Pride becomes more powerful the longer one lives.」
「My orders are the Great Demon Lord’s orders, my words are the Great Demon Lord’s words. Will he still not listen?」
「I don’t care about that.」
Deji dismisses her words.
「…But… I have a bad feeling. Kikikiki, you’d better stop thinking of him as just another demon. This is… advice from your elder.」
That advice is genuinely appreciated. Those words are probably true. And probably also true that if I stay here, I’ll be disposed of by Supreme Commander Hard soon. But even so—I still have a reason to stay here. Or at least, I should have. Making up my mind, I look up clearly at Deji. At this demon warrior who, even if temporarily, engaged in direct combat with Zebul.
「…Thank you. But my desire… can only be satisfied here.」
「…Kikikiki, thought you’d say that. Well, do your best. As your former fellow commander, I’ll pray for your survival.」
I grasp Deji’s outstretched right hand, offered as if for a handshake. It’s a rough hand covered in muscle. I don’t know how much power it holds. But I can definitely feel the accumulated years in it. That’s enviable. Those accumulated years.
Even if his rank as a demon isn’t that outstanding compared to his age, his personality is far more agreeable than Hard’s. Deji asks as if suddenly remembering something:
「Miss… come to think of it, there’s one thing I still wanted to ask. Do you know the Demon Lord of Lust?」
「…I do. I’ve met her before.」
It’s been several thousand years since the Demon Lord of Lust was defeated. But even though I only met her once, I still remember that Demon Lord as clearly as if it were yesterday—the one who made me feel such tremendous envy. Deji lets out an uncharacteristic sigh.
「…As I thought, you’re still lacking in color. There’s no way I could steal from you… huh. Well, be grateful for that fortune.」
「…………」
「Do better ‘next time.’」
With those words, I clearly understand. Ah, this man… does he know? That I govern 「Envy,」 not 「Lust.」
Perhaps it’s natural that he noticed. Once, I 「envied」 Celeste right in front of Deji.
And he doesn’t speak it aloud. While one reason might be that our desires don’t conflict, it might also be this Greed demon’s kindness. No, I want to believe it is.
And so, just as Deji said, I envied Deji. I became Deji.
「Kikikiki, Lazy of Sloth and Depravity… quite an interesting Demon Lord. And frightening… I can’t even sense his desires. Well, next time we meet, I hope we’ll still be allies.」
Ah, that’s right. I hope we never meet again. I look up at Deji clearly and say:
「…Yes. Let’s meet again. ‘Greed.’」
「Kikikiki, see you around. ‘Lust.’」
Episode 3
Even if reason permits it, emotions cannot forgive it. That is the nature demons possess.
Therefore, it’s not strange at all that Hard looks down on others due to Pride, that Lord Lazy neglects due to Sloth, that Liese rages due to Wrath, that Deji seeks due to Greed, and that Zebul devours due to Gluttony.
It wouldn’t be strange if Lorna harbored lustful feelings for Lord Lazy due to Lust— And if I envied that due to Envy.
My lips, bitten too hard—the taste of blood fills my mouth. A sharp stimulating scent in my nose. Sights I don’t want to see, words I don’t want to hear. Unlike the vivid flames of Wrath, the muddy flames of 「Envy」 lick through my brain as if welling up.
『Envy Vision』
A skill from the Envy tree. The power to track the movements of those I envy. Not just scenes, but voices can be heard too. As if it’s unfolding right before me, my vision is crystal clear and my hearing captures Lorna’s soft voice.
I’m not harboring impure thoughts about Lord Lazy—I’m simply envious.
Of Lorna, who can feel sexual desire for her master. Of Deji, who pursues desire following his Greed. Of Hard, who overflows with such confidence that he looks down even on the King of Gluttony.
Until now, I’ve only used my Envy skills in my room. On the surface, I am 「Lust.」 Beautiful and talented, standing at the peak of an army, one woman who governs Lust.
By envying Lilith Luxuriaheart, the former Demon Lord of Lust, I gained skills that surpassed those of most Lust demons.
Hence—Medea Luxuriaheart.
My reflection in the mirror shows a face stained with ugly emotions of envy, with tears of blood flowing from my eyes. A vivid, hideous emotion that paints the spirit black. Contrary to my emotions, I am steadily advancing through the Envy lineage tree.
「Haa…haa…」
Though I haven’t taken a single step, my chest hurts. The breath I exhale is hot and damp.
I recall Deji’s words. It’s no good after all. Unless I fulfill my envy here, I have no future.
Even if Hard Lauder tries to kill me—
I won’t let anyone… interfere with my envy. If they try to dispose of me, I’ll strike them down instead.
The Greed skills I gained from envying Deji. The Lust skills I gained from envying Lilith, the Demon Lord of Lust. The Envy skills I myself am advancing. The Gluttony skills I obtained from Zebul’s crushed corpse.
The number of those who can envy me, who holds power equivalent to a commander, far exceeds that of Liber the Seeker, who was Deji’s right hand. But such things are merely secondary.
My envy—the trigger that caused me to harbor envy, its root, should have been elsewhere.
I’m jealous I’m envious I too—want to become you.
「Lord Lazy, it’s time for your meal.」
Lorna calls out to Lord Lazy with a gentle expression. His long-serving attendant. The maid who spends the most time with Lord Lazy, and simultaneously the demon who saved me. Her appearance, personality, skills, loyalty. I envy every single thing about her.
—If you weren’t here, I should have been in that place
And once again, my head is scorched by black heat. Why, how is it that what I want is always just one step out of reach? Who is at fault? What is wrong?
If only I had managed to defeat Zebul properly, if only I had been able to achieve merit, daily life should have continued as before…
Above all else, what I lack is time. Hard will almost certainly try to kill me. He’s that kind of demon. Envying from afar won’t be enough. My life will lose all meaning. Everything will disappear. That emotion which I had tried to suppress until now had already exceeded the realm I could control with my power. My arms and legs tremble, though I’m not cold.
「Lord Lazy, your hair is disheveled.」
「…Is that so?」
Since he’s always burrowed in bed, it would be stranger if it weren’t disheveled. With words bordering on an excuse, Lorna touches Lord Lazy’s jet-black hair. Lord Lazy remains silent with his eyes closed. I saw Lorna’s cheeks turn slightly crimson the moment she touched him.
She isn’t saying anything. She isn’t saying anything, but I’m simply envious. I heard rumors. That Lord Lazy apparently remembered Lorna’s name. The fact that Lorna, who had always served humbly within her station until now, has stepped slightly forward is probably because of that.
—Even though he still hasn’t remembered my name
No good. This is no good anymore. Absolutely no good. While trying to steady my rough breathing, I wipe my eyes with a handkerchief. Though it was white, it became dyed crimson-black, nearly black, after just one wipe of my eyes.
Ah, you are—simply enviable.
I know it’s meaningless. But if I were a Demon Lord, I could perfectly imitate Lorna’s form! Such meaningless thoughts swirl endlessly in my mind.
No matter how many times I wipe them, the tears of blood that flow one after another show no sign of stopping. I hate the weight of the handkerchief that has absorbed my envy.
There’s no time. Whether I can win against Hard, honestly, I don’t know. Considering Deji’s warning, the probability is quite low. He’s an incomprehensible man whose true nature I can’t grasp. If so, I’ll fulfill my craving before then.
I give up on wiping away the tears. I unlock the door and leave the room. Supporting my trembling legs with a hand against the wall, I head toward Lord Lazy’s room. I pass by some underlings on the way. An underling tried to greet me, but upon seeing my expression, their eyes widened in shock.
There’s no need to mind them. My craving isn’t directed at you.
Trying to say that, I somehow change my expression to show a smile, but they turn pale and flee.
Ah… if I could smile like Lorna, would they not have run away?
But that too is irrelevant now. I must be a pathetic demon, only strengthening my envy after running out of time when I had plenty of it until now. While there are plenty of demons who have given up on their cravings, I absolutely cannot give up after experiencing negativity once. I grit my teeth.
「…No good, absolutely…」
「Hehehe… what’s no good?」
That should have been just a monologue. From around the corner of the corridor, a single shadow appears. Blonde hair, blue eyes. A demon wearing a maid uniform shorter than Lorna’s attire. Hiro. Lorna’s sister. Number 2 of the lineage serving Lord Lazy. An irritating giggle. A girl who carries a different atmosphere while bearing features similar to Lorna’s.
At the same time, she’s a special demon who, like Hard, governs Pride yet doesn’t participate in battle. Why do those of Pride always raise such irritating voices? Her expression, tone of voice, everything irritates me.
「I got kicked out by big sister, but I found something interesting instead~」
「…I have no business with you.」
「Hehehe, Medea, your mask is slipping, you know?」
With those words, I finally notice. The air of 「Lust」 that I always imitated through my Envy skills has been dispelled. Taking a deep breath, I use my skills to cloak myself in Lust.
Hiro watches me with amused eyes.
「…I see, I’ve always thought so. Even for Lust, it seemed too ‘thin.’ Hehehe…」
That’s none of your business. There’s no point in hiding anymore. Originally, I had no interest in Hiro anyway. What I originally wanted to hide was—only from Lord Lazy.
Hiro wipes my flowing tears with a handkerchief. Seeing the cloth dyed pitch black, she grins. Then, without caring that it would get dirty, she tucks the wiped handkerchief into her pocket.
「So, what do you plan to do? In that state?」
「…None of your business.」
「Hehehe, you’re not taking the bait. What should I do… if I stop you, would big sister praise me?」
This one… does she intend to fight? Against me, who holds the rank of commander. True, the attack power of Envy skills alone isn’t particularly high. But I have all the skills I’ve envied until now. I should be able to win. I’m not weak enough to lose to an average demon.
Yet even facing my killing intent, Hiro continues smiling with an innocent expression.
「…Just kidding. A joke! Don’t make such a scary face, it was just a joke, right? Hehehe, it’s fine, I’ll let you through. Big sister… is still in the room, but she should leave soon. Really, so roundabout…」
「…What’s your goal?」
I can’t understand what this girl is thinking. Though she hasn’t lived long, and shouldn’t have advanced far in the Pride lineage tree, her expression shows the same Pride as Hard, though of a different kind. Not mockery, but a naturally condescending attitude. And a cleverness that doesn’t match that expression.
「No-thing~ I don’t have any goal. After all, Medea is going to be killed anyway, so I just thought you might want to fulfill your desire at the end.」
Hey, you thought so too, right Medea?
Hiro laughs out loud. My head throbs painfully. The flames of envy that I thought I had contained flare up again.
「Well, do as you like. Lord Lazy too… hehehe, probably won’t even notice?」
「…………」
No good, there’s no time. How long would it take to defeat this one? One minute? Ten minutes? Or even longer? I can’t waste time dealing with Hiro.
Casting just one glance at Hiro who makes way, I keep looking forward. Blood drips drop by drop, creating stains on the carpet.
「Hehehe. Ah, please let me know if you kill big sister? It’ll be my turn next.」
「…………」
I can’t deal with this. Even after Hiro disappears, that giggling still rings in my ears. What’s so funny? What’s so amusing?
…It doesn’t matter anymore.
There’s only one lingering attachment left here.
I can see Lord Lazy’s room. Lorna has already left the room. I never intended to kill Lorna in the first place. Though I don’t know what would happen if she interfered, she was far busier than ordinary soldiers and was modest in front of Lord Lazy. Despite being surprisingly intense at night.
I knock once on the thick door and open it without hesitation. The room I see with my naked eyes has changed from the room I once entered, probably because it was burned several times by Liese, but the atmosphere alone remains the same as what I felt back then. A strong air of Sloth, different from Envy, Greed, Wrath, or Gluttony
「Excuse… me… Lord Lazy.」
Lord Lazy doesn’t respond to my voice. That’s a known fact. I lock the door behind me and approach the bed where Lord Lazy lies. That noble face, eyes closed as if dead, shows no expression, and it’s unclear whether he’s even awake. Even facing him, I feel almost no emotion. The King of Sloth who cannot be envied. Like a sculpture… or rather, like a corpse, the King of Depravity doesn’t move an inch.
Though things that can’t be obtained are worthy of envy, I don’t envy anything about Lord Lazy himself. That’s obvious. What I envied wasn’t Lord Lazy himself, but rather his surroundings.
I touch Lord Lazy’s cheek with my palm. He’s alive. Ugly tears of blood stain that cheek drop by drop.
「Lord Lazy… just what… am I envious of… Why am I… not fulfilled…」
「…………」
Lord Lazy slightly opens his eyes and looks at me with a transparent gaze that doesn’t even contain contempt. But he says nothing. That alone makes me inexplicably sad.
There’s only one clue. Among all I’ve recognized until now, in my memories, the one I envied most was Lorna.
—Therefore, if I do something Lorna cannot do, surely my envy will be somewhat filled.
「Lord Lazy… do you remember my name?」
「…Yeah.」
「Eh? Really!? Could you say it?」
「…………」
His eyes said ‘who are you?’
…Why does Lord Lazy live so reflexively like this. Even seeing me crying tears of blood, even with his cheek stained, he shows no sign of being moved at all. I cannot move Lord Lazy’s heart. I already knew this.
Lifting the hem of my robe, I bow politely.
If so, let me at least end this beautifully.
「Lord Lazy… I am Medea Luxuriaheart. I govern the sin of ‘Lust.’ Please remember me henceforth.」
「…I see.」
Lord Lazy speaks with a depressed voice.
My magic core is pounding loud enough to be annoying. But something’s wrong. Even facing him directly, there’s no sign of my envy being fulfilled. What—am I overlooking? Either way, there’s no time.
「Lord Lazy—」
I untie the ribbon fastening my robe’s collar and place the crimson ribbon on the side table. One by one, with trembling hands, I carefully undo the wooden buttons. I slip my arms out and let the robe fall to my feet. My bare arms, exposed to the outside air, send a chilly sensation to my brain. Only a thin dress and the underwear worn beneath it protect my body. Not even battle gear. There’s nothing protecting me. Being stripped by Zebul is different from undressing myself—the act is far more embarrassing than I had anticipated. Lust demons are amazing. My lips tremble. With a trembling voice, I declare to Lord Lazy.
「…Now I will… violate Lord Lazy.」
「…I see.」
「…In other words, I will force myself on you and have sex with you, ignoring your will.」
「…I see.」
Even after such a declaration, Lord Lazy’s face, his expression doesn’t change at all, not even his eyebrows move. There’s not a hint of joy, anger, sorrow, or pleasure. No shame or fear either. His wandering gaze, accompanied by a yawn, is so vacant it’s unclear if he’s even looking at me.
While aware that my flowing tears are intensifying, I unfasten the topmost button of my dress with trembling hands.
Episode 4
Even after sacrificing everything with such painful determination, her jealousy has only subsided a tiny bit. That part probably corresponds to the jealousy she had felt towards Lorna. The massive abyss that forms the root of it hasn’t been filled at all. The sense of impatience hasn’t subsided one bit. She absently wipes away the traces of their act and quickly puts on the clothes she had carelessly thrown off.
「Thank… you… very much…」
「…………」
Lord Lazy doesn’t move at all. He had barely moved even during the act. He doesn’t even answer when she bows her head deeply. His eyes remain closed. She feels like crying. Does this Demon Lord even have sexual desire? No, he must. After all, they were able to complete the act properly.
The King of Sloth.
As she reflects again on his abnormal way of being, she feels an incredible sense of loss and despair. She can’t even manage a dry laugh anymore.
However, if this isn’t it, then what could be the cause of the jealousy she has gained since coming here? She had always thought it was because of her yearning for Lord Lazy. She had thought her jealousy towards Lust was because she wanted Lord Lazy to notice her, which is why she had been pretending to be Lust all this time.
It’s impossible. She can’t think of anything else anymore. She doesn’t understand what she was jealous of. It was supposed to be an emotion strong enough to be chosen as her governing sin.
What should she do from now on? Her vision wavers. With scattered thoughts and unsteady feet, she heads for the door. She unlocks it and opens it.
「…Hmph, are you done already?」
「…Ah… I see…」
She realizes with that voice.
…So it’s time up, is it?
A black-haired man leaning against the wall, looking down at her.
Supreme Commander Hard Lauder. The top of Lazy’s subordinates.
As soon as she realizes this, her vision turns crimson with intense anger.
…Fine. If you’re going to get in my way, it wouldn’t be bad to compare which is stronger – my 「Envy」 or your 「Pride」. After losing all traces of years of leads, she feels like taking out her frustration on someone. She steadies her breathing.
「Teehee, Miss Medea, did you satisfy your desires?」
Hiro stands next to her. She looks down at her with a malicious smile spread across her face.
She couldn’t satisfy them. There’s no way she could. She still has regrets. No, rather, her regrets have deepened.
She licks her lips. Fortunately, her tears have already stopped. Well, she’s sure her expression must be terrible though.
She scolds her trembling limbs.
She looks up at the Pride demon who is two heads taller than her. Of course, she won’t let her guard down, but Pride demons basically don’t launch surprise attacks. Especially against those they consider beneath them. Just to be sure, she confirms one last time.
「Hard Lauder… do you intend to fight…?」
「…Hmph, you’ve certainly gotten quite bold, directing killing intent at me. Fight? No, this is merely… disposal.」
The same insufferable way of speaking as always. But then, as if suddenly remembering something, Hard says:
「…Hmph, but you have the ‘achievement’ of troubling Lord Lazy and weakening him.」
「…Huh? What are you—」
Weakening… Lord Lazy? Achievement?
What is he… saying…? Deji’s words flash through her mind. A bad feeling. Yes, he had said it was a bad feeling.
The pressure just from his presence. The sense of oppression. The enormous pressure, as if being crushed by the air itself, is no different from when she faced Zebul.
Indeed, Supreme Commander Hard Lauder was the second most powerful demon in this army after Lord Lazy. But had he always possessed such outstanding presence, such pressure?
Pride Absolute. Once, he was the greatest contributor who single-handedly supported Lazy’s army, and the army’s ruler. Hard examines her entire body with a gaze as if looking at a pebble.
「…Well, let’s make it special. In recognition of your achievements, and for old times’ sake as former army comrades, I might keep you as army ‘comfort.’」
「Wha…?」
「Teehee hee, how fortunate, Miss Medea. You won’t be killed. Hehee, isn’t this exactly what you’d want as ‘Lust’?」
Hiro giggles.
Ah, it’s no use anymore. Even without being Wrath, I have to kill this one.
Strange? Something feels off? He’s strong?
I know all that. But if I stay silent after being talked to like this, I’d fail as a demon. You don’t need to govern Pride to have pride. You don’t need to govern Wrath to feel anger.
At this point, I can’t even feel 『Envy』 anymore.
「…Hard, I’m grateful to you. For giving work to me when I was just an ordinary demon.」
「…Hmph, I need no gratitude. All I want are results.」
Hard snorts at me as if to say 「And you failed to produce results.」
But while there’s arrogant light in his eyes, there’s no carelessness. To never stumble even once. Training to the point of illness to protect his pride. That was the essence of Hard Lauder, who continued to reign as Pride. That’s why he continued to shine as the Supreme Commander of Lazy’s army.
I draw up magic power and desire from the depths of my being. It’s been about three days since the battle with Zebul. While my physical condition is questionable, my magic power is at full capacity.
「…Shall we change locations?」
Knowing he would never say yes, Hard looks down at me with a bored expression identical to Lord Lazy’s. sz
「Location? …Hmph, unnecessary. No, rather, ‘here’ will save effort.」
「It’s… convenient?」
「No, that’s my business. …Now then, Medea Luxuriaheart. Come at me.」
Hiro quietly moves to the side of the path. Hard is completely relaxed. He shows no sign of entering a combat stance, and his expression is as hateful as ever.
He’s looking down on me.
…Fine. I’ll make you my lapdog.
While carefully watching Hard’s movements without letting my guard down, I take a deep breath—
—and I use the ‘Imitation’ skill.
Thoughts race through my body like lightning. In my mind appears a green-haired girl. A powerful Demon Lord who led an army alone and drew her bow against the Great Demon Lord. The flames of envy blaze up before my eyes.
My accumulated magic power is consumed without restraint. My knees buckle. My body momentarily sinks down. The terrifying amount of magic power consumption. That consumption exceeds even the SS-rank skill ‘Veiled Dance Mirage’ which envied the Demon Lord of Lust. It must truly be a Demon Lord’s technique. Originally, it would probably be the ultimate realm obtained as a result of dedicating oneself to thousands or tens of thousands of years of desire.
But I envied it. Without any responsibility or respect.
Weight manifests in my hands.
The skill ‘Envy’ that completely imitates the skill possessed by others I envy.
『Imitation』
That is the essence of envy of envy, constructed through experience just like Greed’s ‘Usurper (Skill Ruler)’. Unlike Usurper, it cannot be developed, but unlike Usurper, it can be used in the imitated state. In the state when the original user used it.
『Primordial Fang』
That is the skill Zebul used in her battle against Lord Lazy. A pure white crescent blade as tall as me now manifests, wrapped in black mist reminiscent of hunger.
Hard’s brow furrows. However, seeing this skill that is clearly not Lust, he shows no surprise. Hiro must have told him. Demons who govern Pride have absolute hierarchical relationships due to their desire. I had forgotten. No, I hadn’t made the connection. The Supreme Commander and the maid apprentice. But that doesn’t matter anymore. A Demon Lord’s skill won’t be broken by such things.
「That is… hmph, Zebul the Glutton… Gluttony’s skill, is it?」
「…」
Pressure. Terrifying hunger. Nutrients are drained from the blade, my vision blurs. My feet waver. Completely ignoring that, I lower my stance and kick off the floor. The sword tip trailing low licks the floor, creating a void with no resistance. A devastating attack power – one that even Lord Lazy had to dodge – chosen by Zebul, who spent an eternal lifetime preparing to kill the King of Sloth.
I leap into range in just one step and swing upward in a diagonal slash.
Hard sneers with a clearly contemptuous expression as he sees the blade tip.
A vibration as if the building itself is shaking. The floor caves in. Just before the blade devours Hard, his form vanishes. The Fang easily devours through the barrier-protected wall along with the barrier itself.
「…Hmph, as expected… how boring.」
I hear a voice from behind. Just as I try to turn around, my side is struck. Before I can feel the pain, my vision is filled with wall. Pain. Impact shaking my entire body. I assess. Confirm decrease in life force. Sharp pain in my side. Several ribs are gone. My back and neck are squeezed tight from behind.
「Whether you have a Demon Lord’s skill or not, mere Envy cannot master it.」
My right arm holding the sword is crushed. My hand opens forcibly. The Fang turns to sand and disappears. It wasn’t like Lord Lazy’s ridiculous teleportation. Pure physical ability-based movement. The speed was simple but appeared as an 「instant」 even to my dynamic vision.
Static Lazy. Dynamic Hard.
Tremendous physical strength. Combat actions without hesitation. My head briefly separates from the wall before another impact races through it. A roar. My semicircular canals shake. I don’t know what’s happening, but I can tell damage is accumulating. My vision turns bright red.
「…Hmph, as expected, just Envy after all… I don’t understand what Deji saw in this one…」
「…De…ji…」
That word, that name, makes my hazy consciousness react. I reflexively activate 「Imitation」. The target is the Greed demon, Deji Blindark of 「Usurper」. I envy. I can’t help but envy. That ‘physical ability’.
Strength returns to my powerless arm. Hot blood flows. Deji’s experience of fighting a Demon Lord. I grab Hard’s arm that’s holding my neck from behind. With all my might. Intending to crush it. But Hard’s hand doesn’t loosen at all.
「…Ho, so that’s Deji’s ‘arm strength’… Hmph, what a waste to lend such power to the likes of you.」
My body floats. By the time I realize it, I’ve been thrown with just one hand. My brain shakes. Status resistance cancels that momentary effect. Dynamic vision perfectly captures the approaching wall. But I can do nothing. Protecting only my head, I crash into the wall. Impact courses through my body. Thanks to Deji’s durability, the damage isn’t too severe. Still, I glare at Hard as he approaches, forcing strength into my wobbling knees. At the Pride demon approaching as if taking a stroll.
「Hmph… not much at all. Envy, you should have envied Lord Lazy.」
「…What are you…」
Hard’s mouth twists into a distorted smile.
「You envied him, didn’t you? While riding him. Hmph, I’m telling you to use that.」
This guy… how far is he going to mock me?
My head feels like it’s going to turn red with anger. Suddenly, Deji’s words come back to me.
『Well, do your best. As a former fellow commander, I’ll pray for your survival, little miss.』
That’s right. I must survive no matter what.
—To satisfy my desire.
I stop imitating physical abilities. Strength drains from my entire body. But enough remains to stand. And magic power remains the same. Fortunately, thanks to only being able to manifest 「Primordial Fang」 for a few seconds.
I lick my lips. Don’t underestimate envy. My envy that seeks to covet and become everything.
「…Then, I’ll show you. The power of the King of Sloth!」
I recall the king. The King of Sloth who alone exists, always lounging in bed, on the floor, on rough wilderness ground, defeating external threats as if swatting flies with one hand while looking bothered.
I think. Of that power. Of that way of being.
—And then, I envy that skill.
I lightly wave my hand. Hard’s body is suddenly slammed against the wall. As if being crushed by my hand.
What an… effortless feeling of use. I’m taken aback by the complete lack of feedback and look at my own hand. There’s absolutely no sensation in my hand at all. I’m just waving it. Cracks appear in the wall that should have barriers on it. I just thoughtlessly clench my fist. With just that, wrinkles appear in Hard’s black clothing as if it’s being 「gripped」.
『Miracle Wonder Right Hand』
That’s this skill’s true name. The skill’s true name transmitted through Lord Lazy. It’s certainly miraculous and wonderful but this is ridiculous. But it’s certainly strong. One-sidedly strong. There are almost no demerits and you can attack one-sidedly from a distance.
However, even after receiving a skill powerful enough to slay Zebul, the Pride demon shows no signs of panic.
「The ‘Empty Hand’… how boring.」
Hard looks down at me while being constricted.
In that instant, the skill forcibly disappears. The body that had been floating lands softly on the ground. There’s no damage to that body or expression.
He pats down his wrinkled clothes nonchalantly, looking bored. Unbelievable… impossible, what did he do? Erasing the King of Sloth’s skill? No, that’s not it. That’s not it. I know what he did.
Hard Lauder is a Pride demon. If so, there’s only one possible answer.
This is— Pride’s ‘Superiority (Over Rule)’ skill.
One of the reasons Pride is Pride, bringing effects that nullify skills judged to be completely surpassed from the bottom of one’s heart—surpassed—and bringing overwhelming corrections against surpassed opponents.
But it’s impossible. To surpass even the master’s skill isn’t normal.
「Impossible… why can you surpass Lord Lazy’s skill…」
「…Hmph, how foolish, Envy. I told you to ‘use it.’ I told you to ‘imitate.’ Lazy’s—」
A moment of wavering. The floor is smashed through, Hard’s highly raised leg comes attacking from above. Even if noticed, even if known, the lightning-fast speed can’t be avoided. Her body is slammed into the ground. Ridiculous strength unthinkable for the same commander class. Her head is slammed into the ground. The boot, probably made of dragon leather, grinds into her head as if stomping on garbage. Even without looking, she can tell. The cold gaze bearing down like being struck. The sharp, honed fighting spirit cutting like a blade. Hard Lauder spits out:
「—’Vitality’」
The power contained in those words. She understands.
This guy… is on a different level.
Though older in age, she has seen plenty of demons without power until now. But this one is different. She doesn’t know how many years he has lived, but she can feel the combat experience, magic power, and intimidation that suggest the years he has walked. Why, how? Why would a Pride of this rank be content with a position as a Demon Lord’s subordinate?
—Can’t win
Moving her face that’s being ground hard into the floor, she looks up at Hard.
「What… are you going to—!?」
「…I told you to ‘imitate.’ I didn’t tell you to open your mouth.」
The leg lifts for a moment, then smashes through her jaw, crushing it. Sharp pain, blood filling her mouth, a faint hard sensation of teeth or bone. The blood flowing on the ground appears strangely clear in her blurred vision. In her dazed consciousness, she can’t even judge. Her vision grows slightly dark. Someone is looking down.
「…Teehee hee… Hard sir, looks like this child is unconscious now?」
「…Hmph… Well, expecting anything from this was a mistake… At least she managed to weaken Lord Lazy… I suppose that’s something.」
「…Well, that’s how it is. Teehee hee, after all, this one was considered the weakest among the commanders originally.」
She can’t hear anything. Can’t see anything. She feels her magic core rapidly losing power. Too much damage taken. Used skills beyond her capabilities too much. And still couldn’t match him.
Her vision darkens. She can’t see anything. Can’t feel anything. At that moment, vivid images flow through her mind. Not of the thousands of years she has lived. But of when Lord Lazy embraced her as a pillow and brought her here. Even those emotions are crystal clear. The expressionless face. Arms that didn’t even feel warm. Lord Lazy with his eyes closed, not moving. Lord Lazy roughly spread out on the bed after returning. Lord Kanon raising her eyebrows upon noticing me. Lord Lazy comparing us with sleepy eyes. The first time strong anxiety arose in my chest.
And then, Lord Lazy let go of me.
And instead embraced—
A shock rattles through her brain. Whether she’s dying or not doesn’t matter anymore. Through whatever principle, her vision regains color.
I-I can’t die in peace… this is too much. A pillow!? …W-wait… was this the source of my env—
She tries to shout but only strange sounds come out since her throat is crushed.
「Fa… hyo…」
「…Oh? You’re still conscious? Teehee, you’re quite tough. Take this!」
Fingers like white fish, a palm sharpened to a point mercilessly stabs into both eyes. Her eyes are crushed and her vision physically goes dark. A voiceless scream is wrung from her throat. The fingers twist and turn inside her eyes. She nearly loses consciousness again from the extreme pain.
Nothing matters anymore. Just kill me… Sensation goes numb. The fingers twisting and turning in her eye sockets. She no longer feels pain. Only the sensation of movement in her eyes remains incredibly nauseating. Just before consciousness is swallowed by darkness, she faintly hears voices.
「Teehee, Hard sir. We don’t need this anymore, right? Can I have it?」
「…Hmph, I don’t need it but… what do you plan to use it for…」
Her body sways. Sensations shift.
「I think I can achieve superiority over this one too. I thought I might conduct some ‘experiments’…」
「…Hmph, very well. That too is one way of Pride. But I’ll say this just in case. Do whatever you want with it, but dispose of it in the end.」
「Teehee hee, I understand, Hard sir. Leave the disposal of this one to me. Hard sir should… Lord Lazy…」
「…Indeed. I don’t have time to deal with trifles… Hmph, what a waste of time. Lazy the Fallen… How far my father has fallen. I shall go pay my final respects.」
She can sense the presence disappearing even in her weakly pulsing magic core.
But more than that… Hard’s faintly heard words concern her. The abyss that would pull her in if she lets her guard down. She desperately focuses her consciousness.
Father…? What does that mean? Hard Lauder is Lord Lazy’s son?
This is the first time she’s heard of this. Despite belonging here for a long time, she’s never heard such a thing. Not even as a rumor. Something is wrong. It would be bad to let Hard go like this. But her body won’t move. Neither will her consciousness. The highlight reel had a stimulant-like effect that raised her consciousness, but now she’s at her limit.
Arms that won’t move even a bit. Only the sensation of immobility claws at the air. As if there are lingering attachments there.
「Sigh… both big sister and Miss Medea are quite tough… Do you have such strong attachments to this world? Teehee, really, both Lust and Envy are too tough… You can’t say anything about Lord Lazy, you know?」
An impact shakes her entire body. Her breath stops for a moment. Before that settles, light hazily returns to her vision. The first thing she sees is Hiro looking down at her while holding a small glass bottle upside down. Water drops flow down her cheek. She almost groans as sudden pain returns, but Hiro shoves her shoe into her mouth.
「Guh…」
「Oh dear, please don’t cause trouble, Miss Medea. Teehee, if Hard sir finds out, we’ll all be killed together. Please be quiet for a moment, okay?」
Finding something amusing, Hiro moves her shoe around two or three times as if harassing her before finally removing it. Then she takes out a new glass bottle from her pocket. The logo on the bottle—a potion for recovering life force. That familiar item is regularly stocked in the army’s warehouse. She removes the cap and again sprinkles it on me from quite high up. Potions are ultra-premium items. A magical medicine that can even recover lost body parts. Normally, there’s no luxury of using potions during war, so they were kept for emergencies, saved for when absolutely necessary. The pain eases with the potion’s effect. My crushed jaw repairs itself.
「Oh my, even two bottles aren’t enough? Really… such high HP… shall we go for a third…」
「N-no need… I’m fine now!」
「Teehee, you mustn’t overdo it, okay? Here, here.」
「Ugh…」
My ribs are ground under her foot. Pain like something rampaging inside my stomach. I no longer know what’s what. Whether she wants to torment me or heal me.
The moment I open my mouth, the bottle is shoved into my throat. Liquid is poured directly down my throat. Just as I’m about to cough, my mouth is forcibly closed by her hand. Potion flows back out through my nostrils. Seeing this, Hiro gives a small, refined 「keta keta」 laugh.
「Cough, cough, w-what are you planning?」
「Hmm? What am I planning? Since I helped you, shouldn’t there be something you say first?」
What an irritating way of speaking. But… helped? I hurriedly look around. The cracks in the wall, the destroyed floor, nothing has changed from where I lost consciousness. I feel like I’ve been tricked by a fox.
「Come on, Miss Medea… where’s your… thank… you?」
She says while smiling. I grit my teeth.
「…Thank you. I was saved.」
「Teehee, you’re welcome. From now on, please know your place and run away, okay? There’s no way Miss Medea could match Hard sir. After all, Pride is naturally strong against Envy.」
She pats my hair as if petting a dog. It’s irritating, but I’m lucky just to be alive. More than that, the feelings of 「why」 and 「how」 are stronger.
Receiving my gaze, Hiro sighs. Looking at the corridor—the corridor leading to Lord Lazy’s room—she looks down at me with an indescribable gaze.
「Well… Lord Lazy might say he wants to embrace Miss Medea again, you know? It’s a one in a million chance of a one in a million chance, but still… teehee…」
I don’t… understand. She’s too incomprehensible. How can Lorna’s sister be like this?
I don’t understand. Can’t comprehend it. Hard’s power was terrifying, but Hiro’s mentality is frightening.
For such a reason—healing on the spot without even changing locations? What was she planning to do if Hard came back?
Thoughts swirl. Given such an absurd reason, I could only say one thing.
「…I think that’s impossible though.」
「I think so too. Miss Medea’s body is so scrawny… I could understand if it was big sister, but…」
Is she picking a fight?
「Well, but if Lord Lazy calls you to his bed, you’ll answer, right? ‘I was saved by Pride Hiro, please savor this scrawny body.’」
Even in the nearly 100% impossible chance such an opportunity comes, I decide I will never say such lines. This goes beyond saving my life.
「Teehee hee, well, jokes aside—」
…So it was a joke. With her constant smile, I can’t tell if she’s being sincere or joking. Hiro changes to a serious expression and looks down the corridor. With fleeting eyes, as if seeing through to Lord Lazy’s room.
「Hard sir intends to kill Lord Lazy. Taking advantage of this opening when he’s weakened after the battle with the Demon Lord.」
「…Huh? W-why… no, wrong. …I see.」
This isn’t sane. Although it’s right after the Demon Lord battle, Lord Lazy barely took any damage, and hardly used any skills. He showed no signs of being weakened. Well, I can’t tell since he’s sleeping but.
However, if Hard intends to kill him… he must have some method. To begin with, killing one’s lord is something of a status symbol for Pride. That would explain Hard’s meaningful words.
Next, Hiro stretches widely and sighs before speaking. Her downcast eyes exude a sensuality unbefitting her youth.
「I placed a bet, you know? Even though we’re both Pride, regardless of that, Hard sir will probably ‘lose.’ Well, it’s just a hunch, so if Hard sir wins, I’ll kill Miss Medea on the spot. Teehee hee… Actually, I side with the stronger one.」
「…I see.」
No good, this one. A natural scumbag. But it’s true that I was saved. I decided not to say that out loud.
I stand up and move my body widely. My magic power is almost empty, but there’s no more pain. My wounds have been completely healed.
「…Then why did you heal me completely? You could have just healed me enough to not die…」
No matter how much my magic power hasn’t recovered, there should be a power gap between me and Hiro. Healing me completely increases the possibility that I could escape. To my question, Hiro answers matter-of-factly:
「…That’s because Lord Lazy will win eight or nine times out of ten! Hard sir is certainly ridiculously strong but… Lord Lazy’s power is incomprehensible. Pride is extremely weak against the unknown… If the opponent is weak, we might manage somehow, but Lord Lazy is a Demon Lord of third rank. It would be over if he uses a skill we’ve never seen before, surely.」
Another harsh assessment. But words from a fellow Pride demon carry some persuasiveness. I suppress my anxiety and gaze at the corner with Hiro.
…What should I do about the pillow, about my desire.
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Chapter 6
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Invidia
Episode 1
It is an evil thing.
From birth, I have never gained anything, desired nothing, and known nothing.
Unwanted by anyone, unknown to all, without even a thirst for life.
A life that couldn’t even bear the Original Sin that most demons carry.
No Sloth, no Greed, no Lust, no Wrath, no Gluttony, no Pride – nothing at all, not even meaning or will enough to live.
Before seeking any positive value, I probably needed to reach zero first.
I was merely a negative existence.
A demon without wisdom or power is destined to merely sit and await death in the survival-of-the-fittest Demon World.
Such demons are not rare at all – they overflow not just in the royal capital but in provincial cities as well.
So, surely it was mere chance that I was able to escape from that situation.
While there are many demons who lack even enough value to be taken by others, I suppose you could say I was lucky.
There was a man being dragged along. A man with a bored expression who said nothing and just let things happen. His well-tailored velvet-like black cloak dragged on the ground, becoming dirty and white.
There was a woman doing the dragging. A woman who scattered flames like wildfire that made passersby tremble, walking while crushing the ground beneath her. The thunderous sound of her staff piercing the ground seemed to shout her anger in place of the silent woman.
And there was me. Just at the roadside, without will or purpose, just happening to watch this scene. And there were my companions beside me, watching the same scene just as passively.
Neither the man nor the woman spared even a single glance at me or my companions, but just as they were about to pass by—the man’s left hand reached out and scooped up my body—a small, frail body that hadn’t eaten, undersized for my age—
With movements as fluid as plucking an apple from a tree.
My companions didn’t make a sound as I was taken away, and I couldn’t make a sound either.
I later learned that he had apparently wanted a pillow. What’s that about?
And so, through chance upon chance, I was picked up by the King of Sloth who sought me for my value as a conveniently-sized pillow, and through some twist of fate, I ended up being incorporated into the army of the Lazy Slaughterdoll.
Needless to say, Lord Lazy was already asleep by the time he scooped me up.
What happened after isn’t such an interesting story.
After returning to the Slumbering Shadow Palace, I lost the survival competition against the pillow that was already being used in his regular sleeping quarters. Having lost that position, I was about to be incinerated due to the incredibly loud 『When did you bring in such a filthy thing?!』 from Kanon Iralord, who was both the inspector watching over Lord Lazy at the time and the leader of the Black Disciples. However, I was saved by the maid Lorna, who had extremely favorably misinterpreted Lord Lazy’s “yoha.”
Before I knew it, I was dressed in beautiful clothes like a doll would wear, and forcefully stuffed with food that had been prepared in case Lord Lazy, who never asks for seconds, might surprisingly request more. It was then that my thoughts finally caught up.
Wait? What is this? I wondered.
A demon’s desires are not something they decide for themselves. They automatically gain them through strong yearnings.
Having multiple desires makes them become clouded, slowing the growth of a demon’s class. That’s why demons usually unconsciously regulate themselves to avoid harboring desires other than the one they pursue.
What is the first strong yearning, the first powerful emotion, that a rock-bottom demon who barely had the luxury of staying alive would harbor after finally being given an environment sufficient for survival and the leisure to think?
What is this powerful emotion?
It isn’t relief at being saved, nor is it a virtuous prayer of gratitude for happiness, nor is it self-satisfying concern for the companions left behind.
Naturally, it certainly isn’t 『Lust.』
It is—envy.
A strong feeling of jealousy toward ordinary demons who have taken their ordinary lives for granted.
Envy toward Kanon, who possesses magical power rivaling a Demon Lord and beauty like embodied flames, born as a Demon Lord’s daughter and serving as the elite leader of the Black Disciples.
Envy toward Lorna, born into a family serving Lord Lazy for generations, receiving advanced education and honing her skills and power solely for that purpose.
Envy toward Hard Lauder, who commands the army as the right hand of the King of Sloth, surpassing all powers and maintaining the king’s authority as supreme.
It envies and begrudges everything in this world, thinking:
『If possible, I want to take their place.』
That is my ruling sin of Envy, my reason for existence.
Because I was given nothing, I envy everything and try to become it,
Darker than Gluttony
More greedy than Greed
More intense than Wrath
More fickle than Lust
More meaningless than Sloth
More wicked than Pride
Nothing but ugly 『Envy.』
But the moment I gained this, I thought:
Ah, finally, I have a reason to live.
With this, I can become someone else.
Episode 2
「What a disgraceful sight, having two commanders fall… forcing Lord Lazy to intervene… pathetic.」
The young man says, his cold eyes looking at us as if we’re garbage on the ground.
He’s a handsome young man with eyes as dark as the abyss. Sitting deeply like a king with his legs crossed, his manner of looking down on us might be in poor taste, but he truly does appear regal. If you were to place Lord Lazy and this man side by side, ten out of ten people would identify this man as the king.
At the same time, he is a pure warrior who has spent an eternity honing himself in accordance with his desire.
Hard Lauder. The right hand of Sloth. The demon who governs Pride.
My head throbs with pain.
This pain isn’t from anger towards this arrogant man.
「Wait, no… that Zebul Gracos was one of the most powerful Demon Lords under Lord Kanon… defeating her without a Demon Lord would have been too much.」💬 1
Says Kanon’s direct subordinate, seeming to scold us for the disrespectful act of dragging Lord Lazy into this.
Since we were saved by those insolent methods, I can’t say anything…
I feel a stabbing pain from deep within my brain. I stroke my forehead again, as if to soothe it.
Hard responds to that gaze with a sardonic smile. His words are always filled with confidence.
「Hmph… that might be true for ordinary demons. But I’m saying it’s far too unseemly for someone who commands the army of the great King of Sloth. Liese Bloodcross.」
「How can you talk so big? Especially when you were the only one who didn’t deploy.」
「Indeed. I truly didn’t expect them to be this useless. Next time a Demon Lord attacks, I’ll go alone.」
He responds immediately, though with clear irritation.
There isn’t a hint of joking in Hard’s expression. Despite the fact that an army including two commander-class demons was defeated by a single Demon Lord, his eyes show no trace of anxiety or tension.
He remains elegant. And above all, proud.
The demons of Pride are strong.
In fact, it’s said that about seventy percent of demons who reach Demon Lord status are demons of Pride.
The losers are lower than dung, while the winners are equal to gods. And they consider themselves above even gods.
That is the Original Sin of Pride. Demons who are cruel to the weak and weak against the strong – highly unstable, yet considered the most powerful.
All they seek are results, and regardless of the process, defeat means degradation.
Like other desires, the stronger they are, the more they lean into this tendency.
The last of the four people around the round table—Deji, who had lost most of his collection and his army, making him the biggest victim—speaks while examining the battle-worn Celeste:
「But ya know, Commander Hard. As Miss Liese says, Zebul the Glutton was in a league of her own among Demon Lords, with unbelievable power? Even for someone as proud and arrogant as yourself, it would’ve been difficult to ‘surpass’ her.」
「Hmph… you mean among the Demon Lords you’ve supported until now?」
「Kikikiki, yeah. If you’re asking about beings stronger than that… I can only think of Master Lazy and the Great Demon Lord.」
He responds with a wry smile.
As an ancient demon, Deji’s words carry weight.
To begin with, Zebul Gracos the Glutton was undoubtedly among the top three most ferocious Demon Lords I’ve ever encountered. Her magical power, skills, and very nature are far beyond ordinary demons – she’s an absolute powerhouse. The rumors that she devoured soldiers of God during the war with the Heavens a thousand years ago don’t seem like mere rumors anymore, given her 「Gluttony.」
If I had that much power—
Like sand falling through an hourglass, I feel something like mud accumulating in the depths of my mind.
The weight is so immense it makes me dizzy.
Since reaching commander rank, I hadn’t experienced a single defeat until this war.
After such a long time without defeat, I can’t suppress my impulses.
「Hmph, but our lord apparently defeated her with ease.」
「Kikikiki, well, that’s just what you’d expect from the Third Rank. Master Lazy is… a monster. The King of Gluttony was completely outplayed. After all, the master… didn’t even move.」
Deji’s words bring back memories of the battle between the Demon Lord and Lord Lazy.
Indeed, Lord Lazy didn’t even stand up. …Though he did use teleportation skills I’d never seen before.
Hard nods with a knowing look – his sharp, proud eyes acknowledging the statement.
「…Hmph, Sloth’s skills become stronger the less one moves… it was a choice befitting Lord Lazy.」
「I think that man probably wasn’t thinking about anything like that…」
「What other skills did our lord use? Can you tell me, Deji?」
Perhaps this explains why Hard can still maintain his pride?
Just being here, I can painfully feel Lord Lazy’s magical power, even though he should be in his distant bedroom. The quantity and quality of this power is undoubtedly at a level unreachable by demons. Compared to commander-class demons like myself—or even Deji and Hard who should be stronger than me—the difference isn’t just tenfold or twentyfold.
「Kikikiki, even I couldn’t understand everything. Plus Liber got eaten…」
「…So Liber the Seeker was eaten… I had my eye on him… hmph.」
Hard closes his eyes once, as if saying it’s worthless.
Looking at his eyes, expression, and gestures of someone who doesn’t mourn death, Deji’s expression doesn’t change.
Even when Liese’s expression clouds over, Deji’s expression doesn’t change at the loss of his comrade, Liber Agens.
That must be the strength of Deji, a veteran demon who survived even the war with the Heavens.
—That strength just makes me envious.
Deji says Hard Lauder is a terrifying demon. Is he seeing something that I can’t?
I’m the youngest demon here. Demons basically grow stronger and deepen their desires as they age. Deji reportedly experienced the war with the Heavens ten thousand years ago, and Hard Lauder has apparently been following Lord Lazy since ancient times as his first demon.
The gap of years—just a few thousand years since my birth—is impossible for me to catch up to.
—That just makes me envious.
I grip my trembling arm tightly.
Deji, without responding to Hard’s words, sheaths Celeste’s flame blade and stores it in his Vault of Greed. Higher-ranking magic swords are alive. Minor cracks repair themselves automatically.
「What I saw was… a skill that increased gravity, a teleportation skill… and then a skill of unknown nature that sent Zebul flying, that’s about it.」
「…Hmph… he was quite conservative with his skills.」
At Deji’s words, Hard furrows his brow and sighs. It’s the kind of emotion that shouldn’t normally appear on a demon of Pride.
Resting his elbow on the table, he places his hand on his chin in deep thought, creating a scene worthy of being painted just as it is.
Deftly crossing his six arms, Deji asks with a puzzled expression:
「Conservative…?」
「…Hmph. The power of Lord Lazy that I know isn’t just at that level. For one thing, he didn’t even use his ‘Slaughter Doll.’」
「Kikikiki, that’s true. But no matter how great the master is, I doubt dolls alone could defeat Zebul. In fact, the doll I received was torn apart and eaten.」
「…Don’t compare it to the doll given to you. Lord Lazy’s original Slaughter Doll is… supreme.」
Hard sneers. At Deji, at Liese, at me.
This is probably a fact that only Hard, who has served Lord Lazy for far longer than I have, would know.
And then Hard says those words:
「…Even more so than himself.」
「Huh? …No matter how you look at it, there’s no way a doll could be stronger than its creator, right?」
「…Hmph. For ordinary demons, that is.」
The Slaughter Doll skill is apparently a skill possessed by the Demon Lord of Sloth, so there’s almost no precedent for it.
But the idea that someone could create something exceeding a Demon Lord’s power is beyond common sense.
Liese stares at Hard’s face with an expression of shock, as if checking for any sign of lies.
Hard Lauder is sane. At least, while he may be proud, his power is genuine, and he possesses not just skills but also intelligence and charisma. Without these qualities, he couldn’t command the First Legion, which has the largest number of troops.
「Kikikiki, if that’s true, it’s amazing. I’d love to have another one. But well, even if that’s the case… this time’s opponent was a Demon Lord capable of wounding the master, you know? I think it’d be too much for a doll that doesn’t even have an Original Sin skill.」
At those words, Hard’s eyes widen.
He leans forward, fixing Deji with an intense stare. An outpouring of emotion strong enough to shake one’s soul.
「…Impossible… Lord Lazy was wounded… you say!?」
「…Yeah. Well, it was just a small amount of blood, and it healed right away.」
「…That’s enough… I see, so Zebul managed to wound Lazy of Depravity. Hmph, I understand now…」
「Is something strange about that? Even for a Demon Lord, they’d at least get wounded when fighting another Demon Lord… He was even complaining when you took him away earlier.」
At Liese’s question, Hard sighs and leans back deeply in his chair. He lets his gaze wander in the air, as if considering something.
「…Hmph, that’s normal for him. But well, someone capable of wounding Lazy of Sloth even slightly… it’s been two thousand years.」
「Two thousand years… there was someone else two thousand years ago?」
「Yes… someone you know well. But… never mind.」
As if declaring the conversation over, Hard stands up.
The overwhelming pressure released from his body—the magical power of Pride suddenly intensifies its density.
His ice-cold gaze looks down on Deji and me. A world-consuming power that makes our bodies stiffen.
At the change in atmosphere, Liese frowns, visibly grimacing as she stands up. If this had happened right after she was dispatched here, she would have been furious. Recently she seems to have learned to control her Wrath, and rarely burns rooms anymore.
「Wait…」
「…Hmph. Though it worked out in the end, you’ll pay the price for this disgrace. I’ll pass judgment later. Look forward to it.」
「Kikikiki, please go easy on us.」
「…Hmph.」
The door closes with a loud sound.
As the air returns to normal, Liese speaks indignantly. Her hair flickers with crimson phosphorescence.
「That man… no matter what, that’s no way to treat allies—」
「Kikikiki, Miss Liese, you’re young. That’s just how Pride commanders are. Actually, we should consider ourselves lucky we weren’t executed on the spot.」
Deji stands up with a grin.
As a demon who has lived far longer than me, his words carry the weight of experience.
His six eyes look at me. I couldn’t understand the emotion in them.
「Miss Medea, I—have decided to leave this army.」
In a way, this was what I had expected.
Despite his appearance, Deji is a rational demon. His desire, his greed, is directed at objects rather than people, making him far more trustworthy than other demons.
It must have been unexpected for Liese, as she stands up again upon hearing these words.
「What… are you serious, Deji?」
「Yeah… if I stay here, I’ll end up being disposed of by Supreme Commander Hard. The right hand of Lazy of Sloth, supreme in Pride… kikikiki, it’s troublesome.」
「That’s absurd… how could a commander like you be allowed to do such a thing?」
「It’ll be allowed. After all, my desire—isn’t the kind that can only be satisfied here. I don’t know about you or Hard though.」
Immediate decision. Judgment.
Deji’s words hit the mark. The desire of Greed is the kind that can be satisfied in any army. With Deji’s level of ability, he would be valued in any Demon Lord’s forces. Moreover, he even possesses a magic sword that made Zebul call it terrifying.
And the latter part hit the mark as well.
My desire—「Envy」 can only be satisfied here.
My head hurts as if my brain has been wounded.
Deji knows when to withdraw. That’s probably how he survived even the war with the Heavens. His body, reason, thoughts, and desires—all tempered like steel. Ah, all of it—is enviable.
Kikikiki, Deji laughs with his familiar voice.
And then he says something I never would have considered.
「Kikikiki, as a fellow survivor of the Zebul battle, let me ask you this? Miss, won’t you leave with me?」
「What… that’s—」
「Desire can be satisfied in more than one place. Kikikiki, you’re young. You should be able to live a better life than being disposed of by Hard…」
Liese frantically looks between Deji and me. As an inspector, discord in a Demon Lord’s army becomes their demerit. The Great Demon Lord’s Wrath would be directed at them. Even if it’s not their fault, it would be like touching a dragon’s reverse scale. No, it would be even more terrifying than a dragon.
「…I’ll persuade Hard Lauder. We can’t reduce the Great Demon Lord’s fighting strength.」
「Kikikiki, I appreciate the young lady’s proposal, but that’s impossible. Hard is… stronger than your Wrath. After all, he’s a demon who’s been alive since ancient times—when I was still just an ordinary demon. The ‘Superiority’ skill of Pride becomes more powerful the longer one lives.」
「My orders are the Great Demon Lord’s orders, my words are the Great Demon Lord’s words. Will he still not listen?」
「I don’t care about that.」
Deji dismisses her words.
「…But… I have a bad feeling. Kikikiki, you’d better stop thinking of him as just another demon. This is… advice from your elder.」
That advice is genuinely appreciated.
Those words are probably true. And probably also true that if I stay here, I’ll be disposed of by Supreme Commander Hard soon.
But even so—I still have a reason to stay here. Or at least, I should have.
Making up my mind, I look up clearly at Deji. At this demon warrior who, even if temporarily, engaged in direct combat with Zebul.
「…Thank you. But my desire… can only be satisfied here.」
「…Kikikiki, thought you’d say that. Well, do your best. As your former fellow commander, I’ll pray for your survival.」
I grasp Deji’s outstretched right hand, offered as if for a handshake.
It’s a rough hand covered in muscle. I don’t know how much power it holds. But I can definitely feel the accumulated years in it.
That’s enviable. Those accumulated years.
Even if his rank as a demon isn’t that outstanding compared to his age, his personality is far more agreeable than Hard’s.
Deji asks as if suddenly remembering something:
「Miss… come to think of it, there’s one thing I still wanted to ask. Do you know the Demon Lord of Lust?」
「…I do. I’ve met her before.」
It’s been several thousand years since the Demon Lord of Lust was defeated.
But even though I only met her once, I still remember that Demon Lord as clearly as if it were yesterday—the one who made me feel such tremendous envy.
Deji lets out an uncharacteristic sigh.
「…As I thought, you’re still lacking in color. There’s no way I could steal from you… huh. Well, be grateful for that fortune.」
「…………」
「Do better ‘next time.’」
With those words, I clearly understand.
Ah, this man… does he know?
That I govern 「Envy,」 not 「Lust.」
Perhaps it’s natural that he noticed. Once, I 「envied」 Celeste right in front of Deji.
And he doesn’t speak it aloud. While one reason might be that our desires don’t conflict, it might also be this Greed demon’s kindness.
No, I want to believe it is.
And so, just as Deji said, I envied Deji.
I became Deji.
「Kikikiki, Lazy of Sloth and Depravity… quite an interesting Demon Lord. And frightening… I can’t even sense his desires. Well, next time we meet, I hope we’ll still be allies.」
Ah, that’s right. I hope we never meet again.
I look up at Deji clearly and say:
「…Yes. Let’s meet again. ‘Greed.’」
「Kikikiki, see you around. ‘Lust.’」
Episode 3
Even if reason permits it, emotions cannot forgive it.
That is the nature demons possess.
Therefore, it’s not strange at all that Hard looks down on others due to Pride, that Lord Lazy neglects due to Sloth, that Liese rages due to Wrath, that Deji seeks due to Greed, and that Zebul devours due to Gluttony.
It wouldn’t be strange if Lorna harbored lustful feelings for Lord Lazy due to Lust—
And if I envied that due to Envy.
My lips, bitten too hard—the taste of blood fills my mouth. A sharp stimulating scent in my nose.
Sights I don’t want to see, words I don’t want to hear.
Unlike the vivid flames of Wrath, the muddy flames of 「Envy」 lick through my brain as if welling up.
『Envy Vision』
A skill from the Envy tree. The power to track the movements of those I envy. Not just scenes, but voices can be heard too.
As if it’s unfolding right before me, my vision is crystal clear and my hearing captures Lorna’s soft voice.
I’m not harboring impure thoughts about Lord Lazy—I’m simply envious.
Of Lorna, who can feel sexual desire for her master.
Of Deji, who pursues desire following his Greed.
Of Hard, who overflows with such confidence that he looks down even on the King of Gluttony.
Until now, I’ve only used my Envy skills in my room.
On the surface, I am 「Lust.」
Beautiful and talented, standing at the peak of an army, one woman who governs Lust.
By envying Lilith Luxuriaheart, the former Demon Lord of Lust, I gained skills that surpassed those of most Lust demons.
Hence—Medea Luxuriaheart.
My reflection in the mirror shows a face stained with ugly emotions of envy, with tears of blood flowing from my eyes.
A vivid, hideous emotion that paints the spirit black.
Contrary to my emotions, I am steadily advancing through the Envy lineage tree.
「Haa…haa…」
Though I haven’t taken a single step, my chest hurts.
The breath I exhale is hot and damp.
I recall Deji’s words.
It’s no good after all. Unless I fulfill my envy here, I have no future.
Even if Hard Lauder tries to kill me—
I won’t let anyone… interfere with my envy.
If they try to dispose of me, I’ll strike them down instead.
The Greed skills I gained from envying Deji.
The Lust skills I gained from envying Lilith, the Demon Lord of Lust.
The Envy skills I myself am advancing.
The Gluttony skills I obtained from Zebul’s crushed corpse.
The number of those who can envy me, who holds power equivalent to a commander, far exceeds that of Liber the Seeker, who was Deji’s right hand.
But such things are merely secondary.
My envy—the trigger that caused me to harbor envy, its root, should have been elsewhere.
I’m jealous
I’m envious
I too—want to become you.
「Lord Lazy, it’s time for your meal.」
Lorna calls out to Lord Lazy with a gentle expression.
His long-serving attendant. The maid who spends the most time with Lord Lazy, and simultaneously the demon who saved me.
Her appearance, personality, skills, loyalty. I envy every single thing about her.
—If you weren’t here, I should have been in that place
And once again, my head is scorched by black heat.
Why, how is it that what I want is always just one step out of reach?
Who is at fault? What is wrong?
If only I had managed to defeat Zebul properly, if only I had been able to achieve merit, daily life should have continued as before…
Above all else, what I lack is time. Hard will almost certainly try to kill me. He’s that kind of demon.
Envying from afar won’t be enough. My life will lose all meaning. Everything will disappear.
That emotion which I had tried to suppress until now had already exceeded the realm I could control with my power.
My arms and legs tremble, though I’m not cold.
「Lord Lazy, your hair is disheveled.」
「…Is that so?」
Since he’s always burrowed in bed, it would be stranger if it weren’t disheveled.
With words bordering on an excuse, Lorna touches Lord Lazy’s jet-black hair. Lord Lazy remains silent with his eyes closed.
I saw Lorna’s cheeks turn slightly crimson the moment she touched him.
She isn’t saying anything. She isn’t saying anything, but I’m simply envious.
I heard rumors. That Lord Lazy apparently remembered Lorna’s name. The fact that Lorna, who had always served humbly within her station until now, has stepped slightly forward is probably because of that.
—Even though he still hasn’t remembered my name
No good. This is no good anymore. Absolutely no good.
While trying to steady my rough breathing, I wipe my eyes with a handkerchief. Though it was white, it became dyed crimson-black, nearly black, after just one wipe of my eyes.
Ah, you are—simply enviable.
I know it’s meaningless.
But if I were a Demon Lord, I could perfectly imitate Lorna’s form!
Such meaningless thoughts swirl endlessly in my mind.
No matter how many times I wipe them, the tears of blood that flow one after another show no sign of stopping. I hate the weight of the handkerchief that has absorbed my envy.
There’s no time. Whether I can win against Hard, honestly, I don’t know.
Considering Deji’s warning, the probability is quite low. He’s an incomprehensible man whose true nature I can’t grasp.
If so, I’ll fulfill my craving before then.
I give up on wiping away the tears.
I unlock the door and leave the room.
Supporting my trembling legs with a hand against the wall, I head toward Lord Lazy’s room. I pass by some underlings on the way.
An underling tried to greet me, but upon seeing my expression, their eyes widened in shock.
There’s no need to mind them. My craving isn’t directed at you.
Trying to say that, I somehow change my expression to show a smile, but they turn pale and flee.
Ah… if I could smile like Lorna, would they not have run away?
But that too is irrelevant now.
I must be a pathetic demon, only strengthening my envy after running out of time when I had plenty of it until now.
While there are plenty of demons who have given up on their cravings, I absolutely cannot give up after experiencing negativity once.
I grit my teeth.
「…No good, absolutely…」
「Hehehe… what’s no good?」
That should have been just a monologue.
From around the corner of the corridor, a single shadow appears.
Blonde hair, blue eyes. A demon wearing a maid uniform shorter than Lorna’s attire.
Hiro. Lorna’s sister. Number 2 of the lineage serving Lord Lazy.
An irritating giggle. A girl who carries a different atmosphere while bearing features similar to Lorna’s.
At the same time, she’s a special demon who, like Hard, governs Pride yet doesn’t participate in battle.
Why do those of Pride always raise such irritating voices? Her expression, tone of voice, everything irritates me.
「I got kicked out by big sister, but I found something interesting instead~」
「…I have no business with you.」
「Hehehe, Medea, your mask is slipping, you know?」
With those words, I finally notice.
The air of 「Lust」 that I always imitated through my Envy skills has been dispelled.
Taking a deep breath, I use my skills to cloak myself in Lust.
Hiro watches me with amused eyes.
「…I see, I’ve always thought so. Even for Lust, it seemed too ‘thin.’ Hehehe…」
That’s none of your business.
There’s no point in hiding anymore. Originally, I had no interest in Hiro anyway.
What I originally wanted to hide was—only from Lord Lazy.
Hiro wipes my flowing tears with a handkerchief. Seeing the cloth dyed pitch black, she grins.
Then, without caring that it would get dirty, she tucks the wiped handkerchief into her pocket.
「So, what do you plan to do? In that state?」
「…None of your business.」
「Hehehe, you’re not taking the bait. What should I do… if I stop you, would big sister praise me?」
This one… does she intend to fight?
Against me, who holds the rank of commander.
True, the attack power of Envy skills alone isn’t particularly high. But I have all the skills I’ve envied until now.
I should be able to win. I’m not weak enough to lose to an average demon.
Yet even facing my killing intent, Hiro continues smiling with an innocent expression.
「…Just kidding. A joke! Don’t make such a scary face, it was just a joke, right? Hehehe, it’s fine, I’ll let you through. Big sister… is still in the room, but she should leave soon. Really, so roundabout…」
「…What’s your goal?」
I can’t understand what this girl is thinking.
Though she hasn’t lived long, and shouldn’t have advanced far in the Pride lineage tree, her expression shows the same Pride as Hard, though of a different kind.
Not mockery, but a naturally condescending attitude.
And a cleverness that doesn’t match that expression.
「No-thing~ I don’t have any goal. After all, Medea is going to be killed anyway, so I just thought you might want to fulfill your desire at the end.」
Hey, you thought so too, right Medea?
Hiro laughs out loud.
My head throbs painfully. The flames of envy that I thought I had contained flare up again.
「Well, do as you like. Lord Lazy too… hehehe, probably won’t even notice?」
「…………」
No good, there’s no time.
How long would it take to defeat this one? One minute? Ten minutes? Or even longer?
I can’t waste time dealing with Hiro.
Casting just one glance at Hiro who makes way, I keep looking forward.
Blood drips drop by drop, creating stains on the carpet.
「Hehehe. Ah, please let me know if you kill big sister? It’ll be my turn next.」
「…………」
I can’t deal with this.
Even after Hiro disappears, that giggling still rings in my ears.
What’s so funny? What’s so amusing?
…It doesn’t matter anymore.
There’s only one lingering attachment left here.
I can see Lord Lazy’s room. Lorna has already left the room.
I never intended to kill Lorna in the first place. Though I don’t know what would happen if she interfered, she was far busier than ordinary soldiers and was modest in front of Lord Lazy. Despite being surprisingly intense at night.
I knock once on the thick door and open it without hesitation.
The room I see with my naked eyes has changed from the room I once entered, probably because it was burned several times by Liese, but the atmosphere alone remains the same as what I felt back then.
A strong air of Sloth, different from Envy, Greed, Wrath, or Gluttony
「Excuse… me… Lord Lazy.」
Lord Lazy doesn’t respond to my voice. That’s a known fact.
I lock the door behind me and approach the bed where Lord Lazy lies.
That noble face, eyes closed as if dead, shows no expression, and it’s unclear whether he’s even awake.
Even facing him, I feel almost no emotion. The King of Sloth who cannot be envied. Like a sculpture… or rather, like a corpse, the King of Depravity doesn’t move an inch.
Though things that can’t be obtained are worthy of envy, I don’t envy anything about Lord Lazy himself.
That’s obvious. What I envied wasn’t Lord Lazy himself, but rather his surroundings.
I touch Lord Lazy’s cheek with my palm. He’s alive.
Ugly tears of blood stain that cheek drop by drop.
「Lord Lazy… just what… am I envious of… Why am I… not fulfilled…」
「…………」
Lord Lazy slightly opens his eyes and looks at me with a transparent gaze that doesn’t even contain contempt.
But he says nothing. That alone makes me inexplicably sad.
There’s only one clue.
Among all I’ve recognized until now, in my memories, the one I envied most was Lorna.
—Therefore, if I do something Lorna cannot do, surely my envy will be somewhat filled.
「Lord Lazy… do you remember my name?」
「…Yeah.」
「Eh? Really!? Could you say it?」
「…………」
His eyes said ‘who are you?’
…Why does Lord Lazy live so reflexively like this.
Even seeing me crying tears of blood, even with his cheek stained, he shows no sign of being moved at all. I cannot move Lord Lazy’s heart.
I already knew this.
Lifting the hem of my robe, I bow politely.
If so, let me at least end this beautifully.
「Lord Lazy… I am Medea Luxuriaheart. I govern the sin of ‘Lust.’ Please remember me henceforth.」
「…I see.」
Lord Lazy speaks with a depressed voice.
My magic core is pounding loud enough to be annoying.
But something’s wrong. Even facing him directly, there’s no sign of my envy being fulfilled. What—am I overlooking?
Either way, there’s no time.
「Lord Lazy—」
I untie the ribbon fastening my robe’s collar and place the crimson ribbon on the side table.
One by one, with trembling hands, I carefully undo the wooden buttons.
I slip my arms out and let the robe fall to my feet. My bare arms, exposed to the outside air, send a chilly sensation to my brain.
Only a thin dress and the underwear worn beneath it protect my body. Not even battle gear. There’s nothing protecting me.
Being stripped by Zebul is different from undressing myself—the act is far more embarrassing than I had anticipated. Lust demons are amazing.
My lips tremble. With a trembling voice, I declare to Lord Lazy.
「…Now I will… violate Lord Lazy.」
「…I see.」
「…In other words, I will force myself on you and have sex with you, ignoring your will.」
「…I see.」
Even after such a declaration, Lord Lazy’s face, his expression doesn’t change at all, not even his eyebrows move.
There’s not a hint of joy, anger, sorrow, or pleasure. No shame or fear either. His wandering gaze, accompanied by a yawn, is so vacant it’s unclear if he’s even looking at me.
While aware that my flowing tears are intensifying, I unfasten the topmost button of my dress with trembling hands.
Episode 4
Even after sacrificing everything with such painful determination, her jealousy has only subsided a tiny bit. That part probably corresponds to the jealousy she had felt towards Lorna.
The massive abyss that forms the root of it hasn’t been filled at all.
The sense of impatience hasn’t subsided one bit. She absently wipes away the traces of their act and quickly puts on the clothes she had carelessly thrown off.
「Thank… you… very much…」
「…………」
Lord Lazy doesn’t move at all. He had barely moved even during the act.
He doesn’t even answer when she bows her head deeply. His eyes remain closed. She feels like crying.
Does this Demon Lord even have sexual desire? No, he must.
After all, they were able to complete the act properly.
The King of Sloth.
As she reflects again on his abnormal way of being, she feels an incredible sense of loss and despair. She can’t even manage a dry laugh anymore.
However, if this isn’t it, then what could be the cause of the jealousy she has gained since coming here?
She had always thought it was because of her yearning for Lord Lazy. She had thought her jealousy towards Lust was because she wanted Lord Lazy to notice her, which is why she had been pretending to be Lust all this time.
It’s impossible. She can’t think of anything else anymore.
She doesn’t understand what she was jealous of. It was supposed to be an emotion strong enough to be chosen as her governing sin.
What should she do from now on?
Her vision wavers. With scattered thoughts and unsteady feet, she heads for the door.
She unlocks it and opens it.
「…Hmph, are you done already?」
「…Ah… I see…」
She realizes with that voice.
…So it’s time up, is it?
A black-haired man leaning against the wall, looking down at her.
Supreme Commander Hard Lauder.
The top of Lazy’s subordinates.
As soon as she realizes this, her vision turns crimson with intense anger.
…Fine. If you’re going to get in my way, it wouldn’t be bad to compare which is stronger – my 「Envy」 or your 「Pride」.
After losing all traces of years of leads, she feels like taking out her frustration on someone.
She steadies her breathing.
「Teehee, Miss Medea, did you satisfy your desires?」
Hiro stands next to her. She looks down at her with a malicious smile spread across her face.
She couldn’t satisfy them. There’s no way she could.
She still has regrets. No, rather, her regrets have deepened.
She licks her lips. Fortunately, her tears have already stopped. Well, she’s sure her expression must be terrible though.
She scolds her trembling limbs.
She looks up at the Pride demon who is two heads taller than her.
Of course, she won’t let her guard down, but Pride demons basically don’t launch surprise attacks. Especially against those they consider beneath them.
Just to be sure, she confirms one last time.
「Hard Lauder… do you intend to fight…?」
「…Hmph, you’ve certainly gotten quite bold, directing killing intent at me. Fight? No, this is merely… disposal.」
The same insufferable way of speaking as always.
But then, as if suddenly remembering something, Hard says:
「…Hmph, but you have the ‘achievement’ of troubling Lord Lazy and weakening him.」
「…Huh? What are you—」
Weakening… Lord Lazy?
Achievement?
What is he… saying…?
Deji’s words flash through her mind.
A bad feeling. Yes, he had said it was a bad feeling.
The pressure just from his presence. The sense of oppression.
The enormous pressure, as if being crushed by the air itself, is no different from when she faced Zebul.
Indeed, Supreme Commander Hard Lauder was the second most powerful demon in this army after Lord Lazy. But had he always possessed such outstanding presence, such pressure?
Pride Absolute.
Once, he was the greatest contributor who single-handedly supported Lazy’s army, and the army’s ruler.
Hard examines her entire body with a gaze as if looking at a pebble.
「…Well, let’s make it special. In recognition of your achievements, and for old times’ sake as former army comrades, I might keep you as army ‘comfort.’」
「Wha…?」
「Teehee hee, how fortunate, Miss Medea. You won’t be killed. Hehee, isn’t this exactly what you’d want as ‘Lust’?」
Hiro giggles.
Ah, it’s no use anymore.
Even without being Wrath, I have to kill this one.
Strange? Something feels off? He’s strong?
I know all that.
But if I stay silent after being talked to like this, I’d fail as a demon.
You don’t need to govern Pride to have pride.
You don’t need to govern Wrath to feel anger.
At this point, I can’t even feel 『Envy』 anymore.
「…Hard, I’m grateful to you. For giving work to me when I was just an ordinary demon.」
「…Hmph, I need no gratitude. All I want are results.」
Hard snorts at me as if to say 「And you failed to produce results.」
But while there’s arrogant light in his eyes, there’s no carelessness.
To never stumble even once. Training to the point of illness to protect his pride.
That was the essence of Hard Lauder, who continued to reign as Pride.
That’s why he continued to shine as the Supreme Commander of Lazy’s army.
I draw up magic power and desire from the depths of my being.
It’s been about three days since the battle with Zebul. While my physical condition is questionable, my magic power is at full capacity.
「…Shall we change locations?」
Knowing he would never say yes, Hard looks down at me with a bored expression identical to Lord Lazy’s.
sz
「Location? …Hmph, unnecessary. No, rather, ‘here’ will save effort.」
「It’s… convenient?」
「No, that’s my business. …Now then, Medea Luxuriaheart. Come at me.」
Hiro quietly moves to the side of the path.
Hard is completely relaxed. He shows no sign of entering a combat stance, and his expression is as hateful as ever.
He’s looking down on me.
…Fine. I’ll make you my lapdog.
While carefully watching Hard’s movements without letting my guard down, I take a deep breath—
—and I use the ‘Imitation’ skill.
Thoughts race through my body like lightning.
In my mind appears a green-haired girl. A powerful Demon Lord who led an army alone and drew her bow against the Great Demon Lord.
The flames of envy blaze up before my eyes.
My accumulated magic power is consumed without restraint.
My knees buckle. My body momentarily sinks down. The terrifying amount of magic power consumption. That consumption exceeds even the SS-rank skill ‘Veiled Dance Mirage’ which envied the Demon Lord of Lust.
It must truly be a Demon Lord’s technique.
Originally, it would probably be the ultimate realm obtained as a result of dedicating oneself to thousands or tens of thousands of years of desire.
But I envied it. Without any responsibility or respect.
Weight manifests in my hands.
The skill ‘Envy’ that completely imitates the skill possessed by others I envy.
『Imitation』
That is the essence of envy of envy, constructed through experience just like Greed’s ‘Usurper (Skill Ruler)’.
Unlike Usurper, it cannot be developed, but unlike Usurper, it can be used in the imitated state.
In the state when the original user used it.
『Primordial Fang』
That is the skill Zebul used in her battle against Lord Lazy.
A pure white crescent blade as tall as me now manifests, wrapped in black mist reminiscent of hunger.
Hard’s brow furrows. However, seeing this skill that is clearly not Lust, he shows no surprise.
Hiro must have told him. Demons who govern Pride have absolute hierarchical relationships due to their desire.
I had forgotten. No, I hadn’t made the connection. The Supreme Commander and the maid apprentice.
But that doesn’t matter anymore. A Demon Lord’s skill won’t be broken by such things.
「That is… hmph, Zebul the Glutton… Gluttony’s skill, is it?」
「…」
Pressure. Terrifying hunger. Nutrients are drained from the blade, my vision blurs. My feet waver.
Completely ignoring that, I lower my stance and kick off the floor. The sword tip trailing low licks the floor, creating a void with no resistance.
A devastating attack power – one that even Lord Lazy had to dodge – chosen by Zebul, who spent an eternal lifetime preparing to kill the King of Sloth.
I leap into range in just one step and swing upward in a diagonal slash.
Hard sneers with a clearly contemptuous expression as he sees the blade tip.
A vibration as if the building itself is shaking. The floor caves in. Just before the blade devours Hard, his form vanishes.
The Fang easily devours through the barrier-protected wall along with the barrier itself.
「…Hmph, as expected… how boring.」
I hear a voice from behind. Just as I try to turn around, my side is struck. Before I can feel the pain, my vision is filled with wall.
Pain. Impact shaking my entire body. I assess. Confirm decrease in life force. Sharp pain in my side. Several ribs are gone.
My back and neck are squeezed tight from behind.
「Whether you have a Demon Lord’s skill or not, mere Envy cannot master it.」
My right arm holding the sword is crushed. My hand opens forcibly. The Fang turns to sand and disappears.
It wasn’t like Lord Lazy’s ridiculous teleportation. Pure physical ability-based movement. The speed was simple but appeared as an 「instant」 even to my dynamic vision.
Static Lazy.
Dynamic Hard.
Tremendous physical strength. Combat actions without hesitation. My head briefly separates from the wall before another impact races through it.
A roar. My semicircular canals shake. I don’t know what’s happening, but I can tell damage is accumulating.
My vision turns bright red.
「…Hmph, as expected, just Envy after all… I don’t understand what Deji saw in this one…」
「…De…ji…」
That word, that name, makes my hazy consciousness react.
I reflexively activate 「Imitation」. The target is the Greed demon, Deji Blindark of 「Usurper」.
I envy. I can’t help but envy.
That ‘physical ability’.
Strength returns to my powerless arm. Hot blood flows. Deji’s experience of fighting a Demon Lord.
I grab Hard’s arm that’s holding my neck from behind. With all my might. Intending to crush it.
But Hard’s hand doesn’t loosen at all.
「…Ho, so that’s Deji’s ‘arm strength’… Hmph, what a waste to lend such power to the likes of you.」
My body floats. By the time I realize it, I’ve been thrown with just one hand.
My brain shakes. Status resistance cancels that momentary effect. Dynamic vision perfectly captures the approaching wall. But I can do nothing.
Protecting only my head, I crash into the wall. Impact courses through my body. Thanks to Deji’s durability, the damage isn’t too severe.
Still, I glare at Hard as he approaches, forcing strength into my wobbling knees.
At the Pride demon approaching as if taking a stroll.
「Hmph… not much at all. Envy, you should have envied Lord Lazy.」
「…What are you…」
Hard’s mouth twists into a distorted smile.
「You envied him, didn’t you? While riding him. Hmph, I’m telling you to use that.」
This guy… how far is he going to mock me?
My head feels like it’s going to turn red with anger.
Suddenly, Deji’s words come back to me.
『Well, do your best. As a former fellow commander, I’ll pray for your survival, little miss.』
That’s right. I must survive no matter what.
—To satisfy my desire.
I stop imitating physical abilities.
Strength drains from my entire body. But enough remains to stand. And magic power remains the same.
Fortunately, thanks to only being able to manifest 「Primordial Fang」 for a few seconds.
I lick my lips. Don’t underestimate envy. My envy that seeks to covet and become everything.
「…Then, I’ll show you. The power of the King of Sloth!」
I recall the king. The King of Sloth who alone exists, always lounging in bed, on the floor, on rough wilderness ground, defeating external threats as if swatting flies with one hand while looking bothered.
I think.
Of that power. Of that way of being.
—And then, I envy that skill.
I lightly wave my hand.
Hard’s body is suddenly slammed against the wall.
As if being crushed by my hand.
What an… effortless feeling of use.
I’m taken aback by the complete lack of feedback and look at my own hand.
There’s absolutely no sensation in my hand at all. I’m just waving it. Cracks appear in the wall that should have barriers on it.
I just thoughtlessly clench my fist.
With just that, wrinkles appear in Hard’s black clothing as if it’s being 「gripped」.
『Miracle Wonder Right Hand』
That’s this skill’s true name. The skill’s true name transmitted through Lord Lazy.
It’s certainly miraculous and wonderful but this is ridiculous. But it’s certainly strong. One-sidedly strong.
There are almost no demerits and you can attack one-sidedly from a distance.
However, even after receiving a skill powerful enough to slay Zebul, the Pride demon shows no signs of panic.
「The ‘Empty Hand’… how boring.」
Hard looks down at me while being constricted.
In that instant, the skill forcibly disappears.
The body that had been floating lands softly on the ground. There’s no damage to that body or expression.
He pats down his wrinkled clothes nonchalantly, looking bored.
Unbelievable… impossible, what did he do? Erasing the King of Sloth’s skill?
No, that’s not it. That’s not it. I know what he did.
Hard Lauder is a Pride demon.
If so, there’s only one possible answer.
This is— Pride’s ‘Superiority (Over Rule)’ skill.
One of the reasons Pride is Pride, bringing effects that nullify skills judged to be completely surpassed from the bottom of one’s heart—surpassed—and bringing overwhelming corrections against surpassed opponents.
But it’s impossible. To surpass even the master’s skill isn’t normal.
「Impossible… why can you surpass Lord Lazy’s skill…」
「…Hmph, how foolish, Envy. I told you to ‘use it.’ I told you to ‘imitate.’ Lazy’s—」
A moment of wavering.
The floor is smashed through, Hard’s highly raised leg comes attacking from above.
Even if noticed, even if known, the lightning-fast speed can’t be avoided.
Her body is slammed into the ground. Ridiculous strength unthinkable for the same commander class.
Her head is slammed into the ground.
The boot, probably made of dragon leather, grinds into her head as if stomping on garbage.
Even without looking, she can tell. The cold gaze bearing down like being struck. The sharp, honed fighting spirit cutting like a blade.
Hard Lauder spits out:
「—’Vitality’」
The power contained in those words. She understands.
This guy… is on a different level.
Though older in age, she has seen plenty of demons without power until now. But this one is different.
She doesn’t know how many years he has lived, but she can feel the combat experience, magic power, and intimidation that suggest the years he has walked.
Why, how? Why would a Pride of this rank be content with a position as a Demon Lord’s subordinate?
—Can’t win
Moving her face that’s being ground hard into the floor, she looks up at Hard.
「What… are you going to—!?」
「…I told you to ‘imitate.’ I didn’t tell you to open your mouth.」
The leg lifts for a moment, then smashes through her jaw, crushing it.
Sharp pain, blood filling her mouth, a faint hard sensation of teeth or bone. The blood flowing on the ground appears strangely clear in her blurred vision.
In her dazed consciousness, she can’t even judge.
Her vision grows slightly dark. Someone is looking down.
「…Teehee hee… Hard sir, looks like this child is unconscious now?」
「…Hmph… Well, expecting anything from this was a mistake… At least she managed to weaken Lord Lazy… I suppose that’s something.」
「…Well, that’s how it is. Teehee hee, after all, this one was considered the weakest among the commanders originally.」
She can’t hear anything. Can’t see anything.
She feels her magic core rapidly losing power.
Too much damage taken. Used skills beyond her capabilities too much.
And still couldn’t match him.
Her vision darkens. She can’t see anything. Can’t feel anything.
At that moment, vivid images flow through her mind.
Not of the thousands of years she has lived.
But of when Lord Lazy embraced her as a pillow and brought her here.
Even those emotions are crystal clear. The expressionless face. Arms that didn’t even feel warm. Lord Lazy with his eyes closed, not moving.
Lord Lazy roughly spread out on the bed after returning. Lord Kanon raising her eyebrows upon noticing me.
Lord Lazy comparing us with sleepy eyes. The first time strong anxiety arose in my chest.
And then, Lord Lazy let go of me.
And instead embraced—
A shock rattles through her brain. Whether she’s dying or not doesn’t matter anymore.
Through whatever principle, her vision regains color.
I-I can’t die in peace… this is too much.
A pillow!? …W-wait… was this the source of my env—
She tries to shout but only strange sounds come out since her throat is crushed.
「Fa… hyo…」
「…Oh? You’re still conscious? Teehee, you’re quite tough. Take this!」
Fingers like white fish, a palm sharpened to a point mercilessly stabs into both eyes.
Her eyes are crushed and her vision physically goes dark. A voiceless scream is wrung from her throat. The fingers twist and turn inside her eyes.
She nearly loses consciousness again from the extreme pain.
Nothing matters anymore. Just kill me…
Sensation goes numb. The fingers twisting and turning in her eye sockets. She no longer feels pain. Only the sensation of movement in her eyes remains incredibly nauseating.
Just before consciousness is swallowed by darkness, she faintly hears voices.
「Teehee, Hard sir. We don’t need this anymore, right? Can I have it?」
「…Hmph, I don’t need it but… what do you plan to use it for…」
Her body sways. Sensations shift.
「I think I can achieve superiority over this one too. I thought I might conduct some ‘experiments’…」
「…Hmph, very well. That too is one way of Pride. But I’ll say this just in case. Do whatever you want with it, but dispose of it in the end.」
「Teehee hee, I understand, Hard sir. Leave the disposal of this one to me. Hard sir should… Lord Lazy…」
「…Indeed. I don’t have time to deal with trifles… Hmph, what a waste of time. Lazy the Fallen… How far my father has fallen. I shall go pay my final respects.」
She can sense the presence disappearing even in her weakly pulsing magic core.
But more than that…
Hard’s faintly heard words concern her.
The abyss that would pull her in if she lets her guard down.
She desperately focuses her consciousness.
Father…? What does that mean?
Hard Lauder is Lord Lazy’s son?
This is the first time she’s heard of this. Despite belonging here for a long time, she’s never heard such a thing. Not even as a rumor.
Something is wrong. It would be bad to let Hard go like this.
But her body won’t move. Neither will her consciousness.
The highlight reel had a stimulant-like effect that raised her consciousness, but now she’s at her limit.
Arms that won’t move even a bit. Only the sensation of immobility claws at the air.
As if there are lingering attachments there.
「Sigh… both big sister and Miss Medea are quite tough… Do you have such strong attachments to this world? Teehee, really, both Lust and Envy are too tough… You can’t say anything about Lord Lazy, you know?」
An impact shakes her entire body. Her breath stops for a moment.
Before that settles, light hazily returns to her vision.
The first thing she sees is Hiro looking down at her while holding a small glass bottle upside down.
Water drops flow down her cheek. She almost groans as sudden pain returns, but Hiro shoves her shoe into her mouth.
「Guh…」
「Oh dear, please don’t cause trouble, Miss Medea. Teehee, if Hard sir finds out, we’ll all be killed together. Please be quiet for a moment, okay?」
Finding something amusing, Hiro moves her shoe around two or three times as if harassing her before finally removing it.
Then she takes out a new glass bottle from her pocket.
The logo on the bottle—a potion for recovering life force. That familiar item is regularly stocked in the army’s warehouse.
She removes the cap and again sprinkles it on me from quite high up.
Potions are ultra-premium items. A magical medicine that can even recover lost body parts.
Normally, there’s no luxury of using potions during war, so they were kept for emergencies, saved for when absolutely necessary.
The pain eases with the potion’s effect. My crushed jaw repairs itself.
「Oh my, even two bottles aren’t enough? Really… such high HP… shall we go for a third…」
「N-no need… I’m fine now!」
「Teehee, you mustn’t overdo it, okay? Here, here.」
「Ugh…」
My ribs are ground under her foot.
Pain like something rampaging inside my stomach.
I no longer know what’s what. Whether she wants to torment me or heal me.
The moment I open my mouth, the bottle is shoved into my throat.
Liquid is poured directly down my throat. Just as I’m about to cough, my mouth is forcibly closed by her hand.
Potion flows back out through my nostrils. Seeing this, Hiro gives a small, refined 「keta keta」 laugh.
「Cough, cough, w-what are you planning?」
「Hmm? What am I planning? Since I helped you, shouldn’t there be something you say first?」
What an irritating way of speaking.
But… helped?
I hurriedly look around. The cracks in the wall, the destroyed floor, nothing has changed from where I lost consciousness.
I feel like I’ve been tricked by a fox.
「Come on, Miss Medea… where’s your… thank… you?」
She says while smiling.
I grit my teeth.
「…Thank you. I was saved.」
「Teehee, you’re welcome. From now on, please know your place and run away, okay? There’s no way Miss Medea could match Hard sir. After all, Pride is naturally strong against Envy.」
She pats my hair as if petting a dog.
It’s irritating, but I’m lucky just to be alive.
More than that, the feelings of 「why」 and 「how」 are stronger.
Receiving my gaze, Hiro sighs.
Looking at the corridor—the corridor leading to Lord Lazy’s room—she looks down at me with an indescribable gaze.
「Well… Lord Lazy might say he wants to embrace Miss Medea again, you know? It’s a one in a million chance of a one in a million chance, but still… teehee…」
I don’t… understand.
She’s too incomprehensible. How can Lorna’s sister be like this?
I don’t understand. Can’t comprehend it.
Hard’s power was terrifying, but Hiro’s mentality is frightening.
For such a reason—healing on the spot without even changing locations?
What was she planning to do if Hard came back?
Thoughts swirl. Given such an absurd reason, I could only say one thing.
「…I think that’s impossible though.」
「I think so too. Miss Medea’s body is so scrawny… I could understand if it was big sister, but…」
Is she picking a fight?
「Well, but if Lord Lazy calls you to his bed, you’ll answer, right? ‘I was saved by Pride Hiro, please savor this scrawny body.’」
Even in the nearly 100% impossible chance such an opportunity comes, I decide I will never say such lines.
This goes beyond saving my life.
「Teehee hee, well, jokes aside—」
…So it was a joke.
With her constant smile, I can’t tell if she’s being sincere or joking.
Hiro changes to a serious expression and looks down the corridor. With fleeting eyes, as if seeing through to Lord Lazy’s room.
「Hard sir intends to kill Lord Lazy. Taking advantage of this opening when he’s weakened after the battle with the Demon Lord.」
「…Huh? W-why… no, wrong. …I see.」
This isn’t sane.
Although it’s right after the Demon Lord battle, Lord Lazy barely took any damage, and hardly used any skills. He showed no signs of being weakened. Well, I can’t tell since he’s sleeping but.
However, if Hard intends to kill him… he must have some method.
To begin with, killing one’s lord is something of a status symbol for Pride.
That would explain Hard’s meaningful words.
Next, Hiro stretches widely and sighs before speaking.
Her downcast eyes exude a sensuality unbefitting her youth.
「I placed a bet, you know? Even though we’re both Pride, regardless of that, Hard sir will probably ‘lose.’ Well, it’s just a hunch, so if Hard sir wins, I’ll kill Miss Medea on the spot. Teehee hee… Actually, I side with the stronger one.」
「…I see.」
No good, this one. A natural scumbag.
But it’s true that I was saved. I decided not to say that out loud.
I stand up and move my body widely. My magic power is almost empty, but there’s no more pain.
My wounds have been completely healed.
「…Then why did you heal me completely? You could have just healed me enough to not die…」
No matter how much my magic power hasn’t recovered, there should be a power gap between me and Hiro.
Healing me completely increases the possibility that I could escape.
To my question, Hiro answers matter-of-factly:
「…That’s because Lord Lazy will win eight or nine times out of ten! Hard sir is certainly ridiculously strong but… Lord Lazy’s power is incomprehensible. Pride is extremely weak against the unknown… If the opponent is weak, we might manage somehow, but Lord Lazy is a Demon Lord of third rank. It would be over if he uses a skill we’ve never seen before, surely.」
Another harsh assessment. But words from a fellow Pride demon carry some persuasiveness.
I suppress my anxiety and gaze at the corner with Hiro.
…What should I do about the pillow, about my desire.
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