When Ink Ash returned to the ground, his obedient apprentice rushed up immediately, fussing over him with concern.

"Master, are you hurt?"

"Pfft. A fight that wasn’t even a warm-up? Hurt me?" Stroking the girl’s silky golden hair and seeing her worried expression, Ink Ash felt a warm, cozy glow inside.

Having an obedient apprentice was great. Having a beautiful, obedient apprentice—awesome~~!

Seeing only Ink Ash alone, Valen hesitated despite his suspicions. "Your Majesty... that mage just now?"

"He has returned to the embrace of the elements, becoming part of what nourishes all life." The Great Demon King spread his arms devoutly, speaking with solemn grace.

Valen gaped blankly, mouth hanging open. "What... does that mean?"

"Idiot! Must I spell it out? He’s dead!" Ink Ash shot him a disdainful glare, shouting in frustration at feeling so misunderstood.

Sensing the fleeting killing intent, Valen froze stiff. "Sorry! I’m so stupid—I’m truly sorry!" he blurted out in panic.

Watching Valen’s terrified state, Ink Ash easily sensed his unease. He waved a hand dismissively. "Relax. You’re dumb, slow-witted, and not the sharpest tool—but since you protected my apprentice so loyally, I won’t kill you."

"Sob... I should feel relieved, but why this bitter rage in my heart?" Clutching his aching chest, Valen couldn’t fathom his own conflicted emotions.

Ignoring Valen’s turmoil, Ink Ash turned curiously to his apprentice. "Lily, what exactly did you say to make that old man so furious?"

"Master! I found my true goal!" Lily waved her arms excitedly, beaming like a child as she proudly announced it.

Praising her, Ink Ash patted her head gently. "Good. Just as I’d expect from my chosen disciple! What’s this goal?"

"To become king." Her voice rang like silver bells, dimples peeking through her smile.

A cold wind swept past, leaving the Great Demon King utterly flustered.

Shaking his head as if brushing it off, Ink Ash asked uncertainly, "Huh? Wait—what did you say you want to do?"

"I will become the king who leads the people!" Lily’s outstretched palm seemed to grasp the setting sun, her eyes blazing with unwavering light.

Her voice was soft but ironclad.

Ink Ash turned his head stiffly. "Re... really?"

At that moment, he was truly dumbfounded.

"Yes. The meaningless slaughter between people. The unequal talks..." Lily clasped her hands over her chest, her voice solemn. "I want to change these. I desperately want to change them!"

That radiance was blindingly brilliant.

Forcing his dislocated jaw back into place, Ink Ash pressed on. "No room for discussion?"

"This is Lily’s wish, Master... do you disapprove?" Hearing his repeated doubts, Lily whispered back, her emerald eyes misting over. Tears welled up, making her look like a lost puppy begging for forgiveness.