Right now, I was in nothing more than a border battle fortress—not my home, the Demon King Castle.

I’d ended up here mostly because of Lily. With things settled, the human army should’ve retreated by now.

After breakfast, my reliable monster subordinate Purinny brought word of their withdrawal. No more worries—I could finally head back to my cozy Demon King Castle.

“Alright, everyone gather round. We’re returning to the Demon King Castle.”

I clapped my hands once, signaling Ona and the others to assemble.

“Planning to use teleportation magic?” Lily asked, eyeing me.

“Yeah, why not?” I tilted my head slightly. “Even the fastest airship would take two days to reach my castle. This Overlord doesn’t waste time on travel.”

“Got it, got it,” Lily clicked her tongue, emphasizing the last words pointedly. “You’re busy with state affairs, after all.”

I just shrugged, saying nothing.

“Dark Lord, shall I handle the teleportation?” Wuluwu blinked up at me.

Teleportation wasn’t simple—it was high-level spatial magic. Moving one person drained immense power; for a group, the cost multiplied. Army-scale teleportation? Astronomical.

But I could afford it. I hated wasting time on travel, so teleportation was my go-to.

Wuluwu could cast it too, but I wanted practice. Plus, I didn’t want to tire her out—teleporting this many people would strain her. For me? Easy.

“No need,” I patted Wuluwu’s head. “I’m still fresh after resolving things without bloodshed.”

“Mew! Teleportation magic? I’ve never felt it!” Ona wagged her tail excitedly.

“…Neither have I,” Hawthorn added quietly.

Lily frowned. “Uh… trust me, it feels awful. Last time, I puked my guts out.”

“You must’ve used a counterfeit spell,” Wuluwu deadpanned.

“A skilled caster causes minimal nausea,” Cecilia chimed in smoothly. “You can trust Wuluwu and the Dark Lord’s technique.” Lily’s expression turned oddly stiff.

“Enough chatter. Gather close—we’re teleporting now.” I waved them over.

“Yes, Dark Lord~” Ona chirped, pressing against my side instantly. Wuluwu silently stood beside me. Lily and Hawthorn hesitated but joined, keeping a slight distance.

The elegant Head Maid lingered at the very edge of the spell’s range. I clicked my tongue.

“Cecilia, move closer. What if you’re out of range? That’d be trouble.”

“This spot is perfect,” she replied with a knowing smile. “No need.”

“Ugh, so frustrating!” I grumbled under my breath.

I wanted to grope Cecilia’s magnificent bosom! Why did I never get the chance?!

I sighed internally, focusing on the spell.

A complex magic circle flared beneath us—Cecilia stood precisely on its edge.

Her magical knowledge was deep. My little trick to get her close? Impossible.

“Damn it… when will I finally get to fondle them properly…” I thought, as blinding light erupted. A wave of distortion hit us instantly.