Imp to Demon King: A Journey of Conquest

Just like that, Karna observed the demonic army building new oikas from morning to late afternoon, then their training by the walls.

As always, teamwork and protecting the person standing by their sides was the core of the group exercises.

He nodded, the corner of his lips curling into a charming smile as the whistle of blades cutting through the air and the clash of metal reverberated around him.

Beyond strict discipline, each time Garduck corrected their postures, he felt an underlying desire to keep everyone safe—especially when he scolded the six unruly teenagers.

Even if it didn't seem like much, the affectionate guidance and soft chuckles he heard warmed his heart. It struck him since he had expected them to spend their days gambling, fighting, or indulging in lust.

Yet, from his initial observation and brief discussion with Muramasa, Litia, and Dimitris, the territory seemed much better than most human cities.

Free of corruption or caste system, everyone walked hand in hand to build a paradise they would enjoy together.

Somehow, the idea seemed as ridiculous as marvellous and caused his heart to hasten. After all, he had suffered from this system more than once... Not that he wanted to remember it.

With a sigh to dismiss those memories, he lept down the roof and engulfed himself in the forest.

After enjoying the bright sun kissing his skin and the lush scent of nature, he entered the northern mountain tunnels.

The noise of pickaxes striking rocks and the smell of dust filled his nostrils as he noticed the few kobolds busy digging ores. Yet, he ignored them and took a flight of stairs hidden by the entrance.

At their ends, light filtered from the open mountain walls into a cave arranged like a living space.

Besides the two beds, he saw a stone table in the middle. On it, the scent of beer wafted from two open barrels.

Seated on the sofa behind, he noticed a dignified man and a monkey-featured individual.

Before he introduced himself, Wukong raised his hand and spoke.

"You're the new mythical figure, correct? I bet Muramasa told you we enjoyed our free time here." He gestured to the sofa and pointed at the barrels. "You came a bit late, but we still have a little of this disgusting beer."

Ozymandias rolled his eyes.

"That cheapskate of a lord! He only brought two barrels of this cat piss!" He turned to Wukong, his eyes narrowing into slits. "We don't need him! Let's go to the city to buy some quality goods." Then, he scrutinised Karna's attire and grinned. "Another king? But no matter who you were in the past, I'm above you now."

Contrary to their expectations, Karna's lips rose into a smile as he waved his hand.

"Muramasa already introduced the two of you during our discussion. I just wanted to greet you and get your opinion on the lord and the territory's direction."

Truthfully, Adam's character already convinced him. Still, he wanted to hear everyone's opinion to forge his.

Meanwhile, Wukong poured fresh beer into a third mug and threw it at Karna.

"He gave me the mountain and the spiritual Qi tower in his garden without hesitation. He also supports my recovery and respects my will. In short, he's a nice little brother." His eyes slipped to the side. "But he has no taste for alcohol. We must form the distiller ourselves, right, grumpy old pharaoh?"

Ozymandias nodded before his expression tensed.

"Call me the greatest pharaoh, or stay silent! Anyway, I mostly agree with the annoying monkey." He raised two fingers. "Even if he lets his subjects build the city, he doesn't interfere with the plans or ask for ridiculous buildings. As an architect, it's pleasing to work with a reasonable lord. Second, He naively believes in his dream, but to be honest? I don't dislike this trait of his."

Karna's lips curled in amusement at their banter, a sensation he didn't think he would feel when he came to meet them.

He took a sip from the mug, the beer's bitterness scorching his throat, and grimaced slightly before placing it back on the table. With a quick rinse of fresh water, he washed the terrible taste away and nodded at them.

"His take on rulership is a breath of fresh air contrasting against the usual cruel political strifes. I wonder how he'll develop his territory... But let's teach him about good wine first."

The three mythical figures from different times and cultures laughed together as their eyes sparkled at the bright future Adam could build for everyone—and at their revenge on the gods who dared play with them.

After all, Ozymandias stated that he would kill and replace Horus as the sun god.

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As for Wukong? He never liked the Jade Emperor, who tried to enforce his rules on him. Beyond that, his title as heaven's equal was a direct provocation to the emperor's divine rule, a challenge to tell him that he would one day surpass and overthrow him.

Karna smiled at their grand ambitions even if he didn't share them as he muttered softly under his breath.

"A place where everyone is happy is what matters most to me. I don't seek revenge or grandeur, for these things only brought me sadness and conflicts." He lowered his head slightly, his smile broadening to reach his ears. "I'm convinced. I'll help you in your dream."

After he engraved his new loyalty into his heart, they continued their discussions, sharing insights on battle techniques, magic, and monument buildings before running out of beer.

Then? Ozymandias and Karna rushed to Foliaris to refill without warning anyone.

On their way, they slapped a few magical creatures to death before they sold their carcasses in a random shop.

With their regale attire, no one dared to look them in the eyes, making the process a breeze.

An hour later, they returned with three barrels of fine wine, a shisha, and enough tobacco to last them for days. Ozymandias even bought seeds in case Adam forgot his demand!

In this wholesome atmosphere, five days passed in a flash, and Adam's eyes began to flutter in his room.