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Chapter 6: A Stroll Through Agreas
Maximus stood in the middle of a grand training ground, drenched in sweat after another grueling speed drill. His heart pounded in his chest, but the exertion was nothing new to him. It had been three years since he began his rigorous training, and the results were astounding. At only eight years old, he had surpassed his instructors' expectations time and again.
Agatha, once his primary teacher in magic, could now only watch in awe as her pupil excelled far beyond her. In terms of magical prowess, Maximus had quickly overtaken her, mastering complex spells with ease and refining his control over his extraordinary abilities. His grasp of political strategy was equally impressive—his keen interest in the various pantheons and powerful beings of the Underworld kept him engaged in his studies. And his growing mastery of space-time magic had elevated him to the peak of an Ultimate-class devil, on the cusp of breaking through to Satan-class. He had already matched his father's level, a feat almost unheard of for someone his age.
But despite his achievements, Maximus was careful not to let the praise get to his head. He had learned from his past life that neglecting those closest to him was a mistake he would never repeat. Here, in this world, he made an effort to spend time with his family, something he hadn't done before. Whether it was playing with Seekvaira—though he didn't particularly enjoy childlike games—or learning the intricacies of devil nobility from his mother, he valued the bonds he was building.
Maximus also maintained a steady relationship with Rias Gremory, visiting her regularly over the years. Although their engagement had been arranged, the two had become close friends. He often reminded himself that he didn't want to end up like Riser Phenex from the original work, where his fiancée was desperate to avoid the marriage. Humiliation like that wasn't in Maximus's plans. Not that Issei Hyoudou would ever have a chance against him, but it was better to have Rias as a trusted ally than an unwilling bride.
Today, however, Maximus decided to take a break from his usual routine. The pressure of training and studies was ever-present, but he knew that even the most dedicated warriors needed rest.
"I think I'll take a stroll," he mused to himself.
He left the training grounds behind and walked through the corridors of the estate, eventually stepping out into the fresh air of Agreas, the floating capital of the Agares territory. The city itself was a marvel of the Underworld, suspended high in the sky among the clouds. It was a sight that never ceased to amaze him, even though he had grown up in its shadow.
Agreas was a sprawling metropolis, its architecture reminiscent of ancient Rome. Towering marble pillars, grand arches, and intricate mosaics gave the city a sense of timelessness, as if it had existed for millennia. The streets were wide and paved with smooth stone, lined with statues of historical devils and fountains that sparkled with enchanted water. As Maximus strolled through the city, his eyes wandered over the majestic scenery.
The floating city reminded him of Mount Olympus, at least how he imagined it to be. Maximus's inner scientist had often pondered studying the magic that kept the city suspended in the clouds, but he dismissed the idea for now. His schedule was already packed with lessons, training, and familial duties. Still, the idea lingered in the back of his mind—a puzzle to solve another day.
Maximus walked leisurely, enjoying the rare moment of peace. It wasn't often that he allowed himself such relaxation, but today he welcomed the solitude. The streets were filled with devils from all walks of life, and as he passed by, he noticed several lower and middle-class devils bowing respectfully in his direction. It was a common sight, one he had grown used to over the years. Despite his young age, his position as the heir to House Agares commanded respect from the people of Agreas.
Devil society, Maximus reflected, was rigidly hierarchical. It wasn't just strength that determined one's status, though that played a significant role. Nobility, such as himself, were born into high-rank status, while lower-class devils had to claw their way up the ranks, often through combat or exceptional service. Most lower-class devils were reincarnated humans, brought into the devil world through the use of Evil Pieces, and although they possessed considerable power compared to regular humans, they were still at the bottom of the devil hierarchy. The middle class, composed of devils with more magical aptitude or raw strength, held slightly more influence but still struggled to rise through the ranks.
Maximus's own rank was technically still considered high-class, despite his strength approaching Satan-class levels. Age was a factor—no devil could advance to Ultimate-class status until they reached the age of twelve, when they received their Evil Pieces and were able to form a peerage. Maximus knew that even then, he would not reach Satan-class unless he challenged and defeated one of the current four Satans, an idea that intrigued him.
But for now, Maximus focused on the present. He continued his stroll through the city, observing the daily lives of its inhabitants. Vendors lined the streets, selling everything from enchanted trinkets to rare magical ingredients. Children of lower and middle-class devils ran through the streets, laughing and playing. It was a lively, bustling place, and yet Maximus couldn't shake the sense of division between the classes.
He stopped by a fountain in the central plaza, its water shimmering under the midday sun. Taking a seat on a nearby bench, he leaned back and let his thoughts drift. The Underworld was a vast and complex place, filled with both beauty and darkness. Maximus had spent years immersing himself in its culture and politics, but there was still so much to learn. The world he lived in was one of power, ambition, and constant struggle, but also one of family, loyalty, and bonds that transcended mere status.
As he sat there, taking in the serene atmosphere of Agreas, Maximus felt a renewed sense of determination. He had come far in his training, but there was still a long journey ahead of him. His responsibilities as the heir of House Agares weighed heavily on his shoulders, but they were not burdens he feared. Instead, they were challenges to be overcome—stepping stones on the path to greatness.
The sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the city. Maximus stood up, feeling refreshed from his brief respite. He would return to the estate soon, ready to resume his training and studies with renewed vigor. But for now, he took one last moment to admire the city, its floating majesty a symbol of both his heritage and the heights he would one day reach.
With a calm smile, Maximus began his journey back to the estate.
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