"Father, why do demons get branded as traitors?" Kuro asked during one such break, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.
"Because those in power fear what they don't understand," Sasaki explained patiently. "They spread lies to maintain control. Remember, understanding the truth is as important as being strong."
Shiro, the silent observer, remained calm and focused during the sparring sessions. Despite being the quietest, he was surprisingly the strongest, often defeating his brothers with minimal effort.
His movements were precise and efficient, a testament to his observational skills. After each victory, he would bow respectfully to Goro and Kuro, never boasting about his strength.
In the evenings, they gathered around a bonfire inside the lair. The warm light flickered, casting long shadows on the cave walls.
Sasaki sat on one side, the three hobgoblins surrounding him, their eyes filled with curiosity and respect.
"Tonight, I'll tell you about the world beyond this lair," Sasaki began, his voice calm yet firm. He shared stories of the past, the struggles of their kind, and the oppressive nature of the human nobles.
He spoke of the different races, their cultures, and the complex social hierarchies that governed their lives.
Goro often struggled to keep up with the lessons, his brow furrowing in confusion. Despite his difficulty, he always tried to act like he understood everything, nodding along enthusiastically.
Kuro, with his insatiable curiosity, asked countless questions, delving deeper into the history and dynamics of their world. "Why do humans use the Illumina system to hunt us?" he asked one night, his eyes wide with wonder.
"Because they believe it's the only way to gain power and protect themselves," Sasaki replied. "But power gained through fear and hatred only leads to more suffering."
Shiro, though silent, absorbed every word. His keen observation skills made him an excellent listener, and he often reflected on Sasaki's teachings in his quiet moments.
Over the weeks, this routine of morning sparring and evening discussions created a strong bond between Sasaki and the kids. They saw him as a father and mentor, guiding them through their growth and preparing them for the challenges ahead.
Sasaki knew that for now, he could only teach them the basics. But he promised himself and the hobgoblins that he would find a way to pass on the greatest secret art techniques. Until then, the sparring sessions and knowledge sharing would lay a strong foundation for their future.
As the days turned into weeks, the hobgoblins' skills and understanding grew. Sasaki watched as they transformed from infants into formidable young demons, ready to face the world and fight for their kind or against their kinds.
As Sasaki was preparing food for the kids, the scent of roasting meat filled the air, mingling with the earthy smell of the cave.
The soft crackling of the fire and the rhythmic sound of chopping vegetables created a comforting ambiance. The kids, now strong and capable, were busy sparring with each other, their movements a blur of energy and enthusiasm.
Suddenly, a series of notifications appeared before Sasaki's eyes. Sasaki paused, wiping his hands on a cloth. The details of the rewards flashed in his mind.
[Main Quest 1 - 'Nurture the remaining three hobgoblin infants', Completed]
[Reward Obtained: Chaos and Heart]
[Description: A technique developed by The One, the creator of the multiverse. This secret art allows the user to cultivate chaos energy instead of mana and develop chaos circles in their mana heart.]
[Additional Reward Obtained: Three Silent Blade]
[Demonic Iron Fist Technique: A fist-fighting technique that emphasizes brute force and raw power. This style transforms the user's fists into weapons capable of shattering stone and heaven with ease. It relies heavily on physical strength and durability]
[Demonic Moon Sword Technique: A sword style that utilizes a katana and requires a calm and composed mind. This technique emphasizes precision, fluid movements, and the ability to strike with deadly accuracy. It harnesses the user's dark energy to deliver powerful, controlled attacks. Capable of slash the dimension.]
[Demonic Mirage Technique: An illusion-based fighting style that uses the power of deception and strategic thinking. This technique allows the user to create lifelike illusions to confuse and disorient opponents. It combines mental acuity with combat skills. Capable to create a virtual world which will feel like the reality.]
Sasaki obtained a powerful technique to cultivate chaos energy. Sasaki's heart swelled with excitement and determination. This was the key to unlocking their true potential and the three distinct techniques perfectly suited to each kid's strengths. Sasaki felt a surge of energy through his spine as he found the way to teach them.
Sasaki, filled with newfound knowledge from the system, called his sons over. The three son halted their sparring and approached, eyes filled with curiosity and anticipation.
"Sons, gather around," Sasaki said warmly, his voice carrying both authority and affection. "I've got something important to share."
"It's been two months, and you've all grown well, my sons," he continued, pride evident in his tone. "I am so proud of you."
He placed a hand on each of their heads, patting them affectionately. Then, he called Goro forward.
"Here, Goro, come forth, and close your eyes," Sasaki instructed.
Goro obeyed, his muscular frame tensing slightly in anticipation. Sasaki placed two fingers on Goro's forehead, feeling the power of the 'Demonic Iron Fist' flow through him. The knowledge of the technique, its intricacies, and its raw power transferred seamlessly into Goro's mind.
Next, Sasaki called Shiro.
"Shiro, your turn," he said gently.
Shiro stepped forward, his calm eyes meeting Sasaki's before closing them. Sasaki repeated the process, placing two fingers on Shiro's forehead. The 'Demonic Moon Sword' technique, with its focus on precision and tranquility, flowed into Shiro, aligning perfectly with his silent and composed nature.
Finally, Sasaki turned to Kuro.
"Kuro, come here," he said, his voice steady.
Kuro, ever curious and sharp, approached eagerly. Sasaki transferred the 'Demonic Mirage' technique to him, feeling the complex layers of illusion and strategy meld with Kuro's inquisitive mind.
As the techniques were imparted, a surge of energy coursed through each of the hobgoblins. A dark aura enveloped them, and the bonfire, which had been a comforting presence, suddenly vanished. The cave was plunged into darkness, a tangible manifestation of the immense power now awakening within them.
From the shadows behind each hobgoblin, three primordial demons emerged. These were the original demons, the first creations of The One, meant to protect the world. Their forms were eerie and ominous, their presence filling the cave with a sense of ancient, overwhelming power.