“Zebine.”
The demon general’s voice contained a hint of anger. However, the hob goblin just grinned.
“We don’t need those without wisdom and valor in this army, isn’t that right? I don’t know why he is the Demon King’s guest or a Hero, but as long as he is here, he should be tested.”
“Indeed. I agree with that opinion.”
Komos said, and the other monsters all raised their voices in alarm.
“Komos. You already know, but he is…”
“It may be the general’s duty to obey all orders, but as an aide, I must determine whether something is a medicine for the body, or a horrible poison.”
The minotaur seemed to be stunned by the other’s seriousness. Komos then turned to Sheto.
“So, that is how it is. We will be putting you through a little test, Sheto.”
“Wh-why!? You, don’t understand, what you mean! I don’t!”
“Then I will say it simply. I don’t like your attitude, and I don’t know your ability. And so I want to make your position known here, and asses your ability.”
‘Straightforward, I see.’
The dragon god sounded amused, but he was correct.
Whether or not Sheto would join the Demon King’s army. It was a decision he was going to have to make eventually.
And it happened to be thrust on him now.
“If…I say no?”
“You die.”
He turned towards Berganda.
However, the minotaur just watched silently.
“Sa…”
He was about to say the goddess’s name, but swallowed it back.
It was Sheto who had to make the decision. They would ridicule him if he asked for help. Besides, she had already told him that his own will would be prioritized when it came to decisions.
So, what should he do?
After a moment’s hesitation.
“…Fine.”
The kobold raised his head.
“I will, cooperate with you.”
“That would mean joining this army and receiving orders.”
“No. Just cooperate. If I, don’t agree, then I won’t do it.”
“That kind of promise won’t do at all. In the first place, you are a goddess’s Hero. Our enemy.”
Komos was so intimidating that Sheto felt like he was facing a bear.
But this was a battle of the mind, not the body. If Sheto became weak, then he would just go along with what was said.
And so he spoke with what strength he could muster.
“Then, kill me. RIght now.”
“…What?”
“Kill me. Then, you won’t know, power of enemy Hero. You go against, Demon King’s order. You will die. Nothing is gained.”
Komos furrowed his brows and nodded.
“It cannot be helped… It would be one thing to kill you if you resisted, but not when you compromised. Very well, it will be cooperation then.”
“Deciding on this without me… Well, very well then. I will leave that to you. But in exchange…”
Vergand had been staying still like a statue up until then, but he suddenly came to life. His eyes flashed with ferocious light, and he raised a fist towards Sheto’s face.
“I will be the one to test his ability. Do any of you have any objections?”