Such an operation actually exists?
Goddess of Harmony, you are so powerful!
Although Wu Chen didn't like the Goddess of Harmony either, the fact that she was willing to pay such a huge price to do something like this clearly showed that her heart was still inclined toward humanity.
"It's amazing that there are times when the goddesses, humans, and witches all agree."
Wu Chen couldn't help but sigh.
"But, from the standpoint of a demon, wouldn't doing this lead to dissatisfaction among the demons under your rule?"
From the human perspective, Wu Chen certainly supported the witch's actions with both hands.
But wouldn't the demons who enjoy cannibalism hold a grudge against the witches for this, accusing them of betraying their kind by helping humans, calling them traitors to the demons?
"Have you forgotten something very important?"
Litia's lips curled into a seductive smile.
"I am a witch, the absolute ruler of the demons."
"If I approve of something's existence, it can exist. If I detest its existence, it must disappear unconditionally. Isn't that perfectly normal?"
Litia naturally proclaimed her tyrannical views.
"Ha ha, that's true..."
Wu Chen realized once again that his wife was a genuine ruler of demons.
"Boss, I'll take all the slaves here!"
As the three of them were chatting, a demon with a peculiar appearance arrived at the slave shop, casually tossing a large amount of gold coins onto the counter.
His head wasn't shaped like a living creature's, but rather like a strange metallic dragon-headed staff, and the muscles covering his body emitted a metallic sheen.
His fingers, elbows, and abdomen were covered in various wires and dense circuits.
His left hand, made up of five mechanical staffs, was tethered with countless chains, which dragged dozens of human slaves behind him, indicating he had been shopping at several stores.
"This is... Demon Duke?"
Wu Chen frowned slightly.
[LV99 Demon Duke · Demon of Machinery]
[A demon born from humanity's fear of magical technology.]
The system automatically displayed the demon's status panel in his field of vision.
Unlike witches, who gained power from the negative emotions, thoughts, or phenomena of humans, Demon Dukes gained strength by absorbing the specific fears humans held towards particular things.
However, the vast majority of Demon Dukes were only about as powerful as elite demon kings, not in the same league as the witches who seemed to have hacked the system.
"Duke, why are you buying so many slaves? What are you planning to do with them?"
After the slave master smoothly handled the transaction, he asked curiously.
"Heh, recently, other dukes are coming to visit my place. I plan to hold a grand hunting competition."
The Demon of Machinery pulled the chains, bringing the despondent human slaves to his side.
"I'll release these humans into my territory and let them run for their lives. Then, let's see who can kill the most humans during the hunt. Hahaha! Isn't that fun? I can't wait to see their twisted expressions of fear."
"True to being a Demon Duke, you really know how to have fun. Our local slave business will need your continued support."
The slave master flattered and gave a thumbs-up.
"Don't worry. As long as you provide enough humans for our entertainment, I will make sure you're well taken care of."
The Demon of Machinery patted his chest, producing a crisp metallic sound.
"Hmph, I originally just came for a field visit, but I didn't expect such a surprising find."
Sylvie muttered softly and then looked at the witch next to her.
"Litia, it seems this Demon Duke is one of the masterminds behind-the-scenes who secretly set up slave trading points in your territory. What should we do now?"
"Hmm? The way you put it, it sounds like Litia forbids others from selling human slaves in her territory?"
Sylvie's words left Wu Chen completely baffled.
Forbidding the sale of human slaves? Do you, a villain boss, have such upright views?
Although in the game, almost every human territory had abolished slavery, this wasn't because the players and human rulers were particularly virtuous.
Players in these games were notorious for their chaotic antics, completely indifferent to moral or ethical norms. The reason no one played with the slavery system was simply because it was horribly inefficient.
Slavery was incredibly inefficient and prone to rebellion. Any player territory practicing slavery would either be overtaken by revolutionary forces or destroyed by demon tides.
But witches don't have to worry about being overthrown or invaded, so why would Litia ban slavery?
"I don't really have an opinion on whether or not slaves should be sold. What happens elsewhere is none of my business... but!"
"If you live under my rule, whether human or demon, you are my subjects! Openly selling my subjects is an insult to my authority!"
"These slaves belong to me. Who gave you the courage to buy and sell what's mine!?"
Litia's voice, imbued with magical power, echoed throughout every corner of the black market.
Her cloak was consumed by dark purple flames, revealing her true form to everyone present.
"Y-Your Majesty the Witch!"
The previously arrogant Demon of Machinery was instantly terrified at Litia's appearance.
At this moment, everyone in the black market—customers, slaves, and slave masters—knelt on the ground, hands on the floor in fear, not daring to look up at Litia.
"Those humans, lift your heads. I have a question for you."
Litia ignored the kneeling demons and instead looked at the humans bound by the chains held by the Demon of Machinery.
The humans, trembling in fear, knelt there without daring to raise their heads.
"In my palace, there is a domain specifically prepared for humans. Would you be willing to abandon your faith in the goddess and swear allegiance to me, living in my domain?"
Most of the people remained silent out of fear, their bodies shaking uncontrollably, but a few mustered the courage to nod.
"I, we are willing to swear allegiance to you, to believe in and praise your power!"
"We voluntarily abandon our faith in the goddess!"
"From today on, you are our master!"
The ragged humans knelt on the ground, constantly bowing their heads, their expressions humble and fearful.
Wu Chen stood beside Litia, remaining silent as he watched the scene unfold.
He couldn't bring himself to blame them. True heroes and saints are always the minority, and most ordinary people prioritize their survival.
As long as they don't turn their weapons against their own, Wu Chen could understand this kind of helplessness.
"Very well, from now on, you are my property!"
Litia's lips curved into a cold smile, her icy gaze seeming to pierce through the Demon of Machinery and the slave master.
"How dare you sell my property! You've got some nerve!"