(Time Skip: 6 Months)
(POV: Benimaru)
Six months have passed since we agreed to temporarily side with Dante. During this time, we've learned a lot about him and his queen. While Dante is calm and collected, showing wisdom beyond his years, his wife is a bit more complicated. She's kind and supportive most of the time, but her temper flares, especially when it comes to Dante.
We've traveled to many places in both the underworld and the human world. I won't deny that none of us regret our decision to join them. During raids on dungeons, where we trained alongside them, we glimpsed the true strength of the devil and dragon duo. They wield absolute control over their powers, and what would be an ultimate spell for others is merely a warm-up for them. I suspect we all agree on staying, but we need to understand who Dante truly is. The magic he uses is unlike anything I've ever seen. He's not a typical devil, that's for sure. We've never witnessed his true powers; my sister tried to pry it out of him, but he always refused, claiming it's a secret he doesn't want to reveal yet.I have one last test for him. We genuinely want to recognize him as our king, and depending on his answer, we will make our final decision.
(POV: Dante)
"Darling, what do you think? Are they worthy to become part of our peerage? I care about your opinion," I said.
"Honestly, I think they are. They've trained hard and never complained, showing amazing progress. I'd say they're easily High B-class to Low A-class. Once they join our peerage, they could reach S-class. Such rapid progress indicates they are worthy," Velzard replied.
"I agree, but we can't force them. It will be their decision to join us. I consider them my friends. Benimaru has grown as a leader; he's less hateful and has learned to control his magical powers. Hakuruo has improved his physical condition and swordsmanship—few can match him. Souie has become a master spy, blending into shadows effortlessly. Shion has greatly enhanced her physical strength and sword skills, making her one of the best. Finally, Shuna is our mage; her training has focused on magic, particularly seals and barriers. While I'm strong in my signature powers, she has significantly improved in both the quality and quantity of magicules.Shuna is a remarkable mage, especially in seals and barriers, which is rare nowadays. She has immense potential, but if she joins our peerage, we'll need resources and a teacher, as my knowledge on seals is limited to ice magic" Velzard added
"That's a problem for another day. For now, we have time until 8 PM when they'll return with their answer, so let's make the most of it."
"Ha ha! And how do you propose we do that, darling?" Velzard teased.
"Let me show you."
(Time Skip: 8:00 PM)
(POV: Dante)
It was finally time to hear their decision about the deal I presented. If they agreed, they would become my family, receiving my protection, training, and support—my emotions, too, though not quite like Velzard's.If they refused, I couldn't force them.
They are strong enough to survive on their own. We would remain friends, and I would continue to support them, but not at the same level. I genuinely cared for them and hoped they wouldn't refuse. I expected them to ask questions before giving their final answer.
I wasn't worried; I was ready to answer anything, even reveal my identity and purpose.
"Darling, they're here!" Velzard called.
"Lead them inside, darling. Thank you!" I replied.
"No problem. Come in, everyone!" Velzard said.
"Hi, Boss!" they greeted in unison.
"Hello, everyone! Now is the time to tell me your decision regarding our previous deal," I said.
"Before that, we'd like to know more about our future lord if we want to become part of your peerage and family," Benimaru replied.
I wasn't surprised by that question; it was expected. I glanced at Velzard, who nodded in agreement.
"Alright, all cards on the table. My full name is Dante Ashborn. I am the grandson of the last Shadow Monarch, and I inherited his powers. This means I am the Shadow Monarch."
With that, I released my Marshals and a portion of my power for them to feel my strength.
"I AM SOMEONE WHO PROTECTS THE WHOLE WORLD AGAINST THOSE OF STRENGTH BEYOND YOUR WILDEST DREAMS!"
Naturally, this made them fall to their knees, nearly passing out. I quickly stopped to ease their discomfort.
"You are one of the Monarchs, one of the strongest. We tried to attack you. We're terribly sorry; thank you for your understanding. We wish to be of use to you!" Benimaru said, visibly shaken.
"Wait, wait! That's not what I expected. I anticipated confusion and fear, not immediate submission and admiration," I said.
Shuna chimed in, "I'll explain. In the royal library, we read stories about your predecessor. It was our favorite bedtime story when we were young. If it's true, it changes everything."
"Okay, everyone! I want you to understand that I hope you want to join my peerage. But I want us to be more like family than just boss and subordinates. So, what do you say?"
"I can confidently say for everyone that we are more than happy to follow you to the ends of the world. Honestly, we would do it regardless of your lineage, but this only makes it more special. We want to recognize you as our leader and our big brother who looks after us. Am I right?" Benimaru declared.
Everyone nodded in agreement, "YES!"
"Great! Then let's start with the ritual."
After completing the ritual and everyone receiving their respective pieces, they all knelt and pledged their lives to me, and I vowed to devote myself to their well-being.Then, we celebrated with a long night of drinking and merriment.