A Small Shining Light

Neeighhh!

Weve arrived!

The coachman announced our arrival at our destination as the carriage gradually came to a stop.

Young Master, will you really be okay? If you want, I can immediately turn into your shadow right now

At the same time, a communication transmission came in from Kania. Judging by her shaky voice, it seemed she was quite worried.

Its fine, Kania. After all, she cant touch me anyway.

But what if the Demon King has hidden subordinates? What will you do then?

With her current status, she cant have such subordinates. After all, it was originally meant to be a surprise visit.

Despite my words, I sensed Kanias unease on the other side of the transmission. I tapped the walking stick I had been holding in my arms and added,

And if the situation gets tough, I can always use this walking stick. With this, I can handle most mid-level combat executives.

-Ill intervene if things look even a bit dangerous.

Kania replied gloomily before the transmission was cut off.

Sir? Are you not getting off?

Upon hearing the slightly irritated voice of the coachman, I, who had been scratching my head after the transmission got cut, tightened my robe and stepped out of the carriage.

Sooner or later, I should custom-order a dedicated carriage for the foundation.

I mused to myself as I took a step forward.

G-Good afternoon, Sir

Good afternoon, Sir

I wasnt sure how they recognized me, but the staff and children gathered in front of the orphanage began to greet me with respectful bows.

.

Normally, seeing children in the market street with improved complexions would bring a smile to my face. However, this time, I couldnt maintain a cheerful atmosphere.

Hello~!

It was because, at the end of the group, the most detestable woman in the world stood while wearing a disgusting smile.

Welcome to our orphanage!

Nice to meet you.

Even though I was on the verge of losing my composure, I still managed to maintain a polite nod in response to the warm welcome.

Crack.

Of course, I couldnt completely control my facial expression, as my teeth gritted in fury.

Hmm? Are you feeling unwell?

No.

Thats good! Im glad that youre fine.

While I kept my head low for a while, Ruby showed a worried expression and spoke to me.

You seem a little unwell for some reason

Regardless of who observed her, everyone would agree that she consistently lived up to her nickname, the Little Saintess of the Orphanage, by caring for others.

Sigh.

However, she was staring fixedly at my walking stick, which I had already turned invisible.

Please, come inside! Ill show you around!

After a brief yet somewhat awkward pause, Ruby, who had taken my hand, brightened up with a smile and guided me into the orphanage.

Well, please take care of me.

I showed her a gentle smile and walked into the orphanage, passing by the children who were standing by my side.

I wished I could have given those children a genuine smile before going inside, but in this moment, I couldnt help but to display a forced one

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.

.

.

.

The children look really happy, right?

Yes, youre right.

The mysterious sponsor and Ruby were happily chatting in the center of the orphanage.

Seeing the children that were starving on the streets, now living so energetically It truly feels like a dream.

When Ruby said this with teary eyes, the staff members around them showed pleased expressions.

Thank you so much for creating this miraculous space for us.

Ruby expressed her gratitude with a gracious bow, her smile directed at the discreetly observing sponsor.

Ah, by the way could it be that youre the Hero of Money, Mr. Sponsor?

People around them began to murmur at that moment.

Yes, thats correct.

The sponsor nodded in response, instantly quelling the murmurs.

I knew it! So, the rumors were true!

Rubys cheers echoed throughout the orphanage.

The Hero of Money is known for various charitable activities in society!

Is that so?

Unlike other tycoons, he only engages in charity work! He donates all the profits from his businesses! And his true identity can never be revealed thanks to a special magic!

Rubys eyes sparkled as she explained, and the sponsor couldnt help but scratch his head.

On top of that there is a rumor that youre also connected to the Slave Market Liberation incident this time

With a mischievous expression, Ruby continued her line of inquiry to the Sponsor.

I-Id rather not respond to that.

The Sponsor waved his hand in a flustered manner. Laughter filled the hall, transforming the once-awkward atmosphere into one of light-heartedness, thanks to Ruby.

Ive also heard a lot about Ms. Rubys stories.

In such an atmosphere, the Sponsor spoke up.

You always lead by example, take care of difficult tasks, and yet, you dont expect any rewards. Indeed

Compliments flowed freely from the Sponsors lips. Ruby, who had been sporting a warm smile that reached her eyes, suddenly stiffened her expression as the sponsor concluded his words with an impassive look.

Youre really pretentious.

Ah? Ahahahaha!!

Pfft

A moment later, laughter erupted from all around. In the increasingly cheerful atmosphere, the Sponsor smiled and continued speaking.

Of course, Im only joking. You know, Ms. Ruby, theres that famous incident when the Saintess misspoke something similar to you during her visit here.

Well, if Ms. Ruby is considered pretentious then I guess most people in the world are hypocrites.

As he said this, he stopped in his tracks; the Sponsor suddenly put on a serious expression.

Anyway, I think its time to end the building tour here and shift our focus to more practical matters.

Id like to talk to the person in charge of the business.

Oh, Im in charge of that.

Really? Its you, Ms. Ruby?

The Sponsor tilted his head, and Ruby replied with an embarrassed expression.

The person who usually oversees everything is currently on a business trip. Since I just returned today, Im temporarily in charge.

I see. I apologize; I have so many business matters to attend to that I didnt even know she was gone. My apologies

Its fine~! That could happen sometimes.

The two of them began walking to the office together with a warm atmosphere between them.

Well then, should we briefly discuss some matters over there?

Sure!

Anyway, where did you hear those rumors?

Haha, its quite a well-known story, isnt it?

They maintained a lighthearted laugh as they continued their conversation while walking.. However, once they were inside the office, the atmosphere took a sudden turn.

Creak

.

Crackle Crackle

In an instant, various eavesdropping prevention spells were swiftly cast on the offices door and windows.

Huff.

One second later

Zzzzing!!!

A sudden attack from the Sponsor,or to be precise, Frey, flew towards Ruby.

Buzzzz

Oh, youre adorable.

However, an unknown force stopped Freys full-force attack right before it reached Rubys chest.

You know you cant attack me, right?

I just wanted to know how it works.

The once innocent and gentle expression on Rubys face had disappeared, and she replied to Frey in a rather low voice while eliciting an eerie smile.

Each of your actions and words are so adorable and amusing.

Cough.

Oh dear.

Frey eventually coughed with a disgruntled expression, and Ruby, unimpressed, clicked her tongue before calmly sitting down.

Why did you come in with a fake identity? Wouldnt it have been better for you if I didnt know this identity?

Are you trying to play innocent here? Didnt you already know the identity behind this disguise?

Freys response was laced with a chilly tone, and Ruby nodded in acknowledgement.

Thats right. No one, except those who wield the power of a god or the System, possesses the strength to deceive my eyes. However, theres no way such a god would be that nice towards me.

So, that means youre also a System user.

Didnt you already know that too?

Frey answered Rubys question while gazing into the air.

Special Quest

Quest Content: Identify the True Identity of the Demon King

Status: Cleared!

Do you wish to accept the reward: Y/N

I have to confirm your true identity with my very own eyes.

So, does it pop up for you too, you bastard? The clear notification window?

As Frey stared at the window in front of him without a word, Ruby continued, her voice filled with annoyance.

The penalty only applied to you once I accepted that window. Somehow, it seemed like the only way to get that notification window was to confirm your identity directly with my own eyes

In order to do that, I had to secure a video, serving as the direct evidence I needed even as my poor crow burned its own soul just to deliver that crucial information. However, for youYou could simply confirm my identity by looking at me with your own eyes. How fortunate of you.

Even as she said that, Frey remained silent, prompting Ruby to raise her eyebrows slightly.

So, when are you going to press it?

Now.

Along with that statement, Frey was about to reach out to the window. But Ruby stopped him with a surge of mana infused into her words.

Wait.

Let me make a proposal.

Eventually, when Ruby tried to speak again, Frey asked in a cold tone.

What? Do you intend to suggest that we join forces?

I havent even spoken a word yet

Let us, the System users, join our forces together, get along well, and rule the world. Or if thats not the case, maybe you want to ask me to be your subordinate. To become a powerless puppet under your control where all I can do is weep helplessly in despair. Perhaps you were fantasizing about something like that.

With an expression that seemed to say she was so obvious to see through, Frey glared at Ruby before sitting down while Ruby, in turn, started to chuckle.

Interesting Youre indeed very amusing

Hmm.

Surely you dont possess prophetic abilities, do you? Or are you reading my thoughts? No way, if you had such abilities, you likely wouldnt have let your body deteriorate to this extent.

As she stared at Frey, who wore a stiff expression, Ruby started to approach him while smiling charmingly.

This will be the last time I extend my hand to offer a proposal to the most intriguing and enjoyable entity in my life.

Did something like this never cross your mind?

I mean, reallyNot even a hint of desire?

With that, she inched closer to Frey.

Do you dislike this young girls body? Should I bring out my original appearance?

Well, Im willing to accommodate you to some extent and have an equal relationship with you, until the end of your lifespan

She began to whisper in his ear with a low voice. However, upon being met with Freys silence, her expression suddenly turned cold, as she begun to speak with a chilling tone.

You probably have the Mind Reading skill as well

Then from now on, its no longer a proposal but a declaration.

Next year, I will enroll in the academy starting from the first semester.

Not only that, but I will also reveal my identity as a Hero to enroll.

Freys composure briefly wavered upon hearing that.

Theres no way you think Ive been idling away for the past few months, right? Ive already made contact with the Imperial family and the academy. I did all of that while you were busy snoozing in bed.

Huh.

It wont be long before there will be an official announcement about the Hero. Also, rumors about you and the Demon King Army will intensify.

Except for a few who have figured out your true identity, the rest will turn to my side. And you will be completely ostracized by everyone.

Rubys face morphed into a gradually more sinister expression. Then, she took hold of Freys chin with her hand before continuing to speak.

If you continue to resist until the end with only those few allies on your side, youll eventually lose to me. And then, I will create a hell on earth, specially tailored for you.

Hell?

First, Ill kill all five girls.

Freys eyes began to show murderous intent at those words

Ill slowly infuse holy power into that Warlock girls body, steadily destroying her from inside. Then, I will tear the Archmage apart while she is still alive. The Saintess and the Imperial Princess will become food for the stray dogs, and I will make that genius into a mentally disabled individual, so she can officially become my plaything.

After staring at him straight in the eyes and calmly declaring those things, Ruby continued her speech.

Not only that, Ill make sure to brutally murder those dear to you as well

Should I create an illusion to make you believe youre dying? Or should I tell you the whole truth before you fall into despair and die? Either way, it would be entertaining for me.

In addition, I will rape you every single day until you die.

Ill break you down slowly, right before your loved ones eyes, until you become nothing more than a pet, obediently wagging your tail for me.

With a satisfied expression, Ruby leaned back in her chair as she gazed at Frey, who remained completely unmoved.

Oh, Im already looking forward to it. It seems like things wont be so boring for a while.

Now, I have finished my declaration.

Um

Im done. That opportunity earlier was your last chance. Now, hurry up. Accept that window and give me the penalty.

Ruby cut off Freys attempt to speak and licked her lips as she finished her grand declaration.

Whether you press to accept it or not, you have no chance of winning against me.

..

Then, there was a moment of silence.

Cough.

What broke the silence was a small cough from the Demon King.

Penalty

[Stack: 1]

[Special Stack: 1]

Keuhehe Hehehehe

Ruby, who was looking at the penalty window that appeared before her, couldnt contain her laughter any longer. She sprang up from her seat and cast a pitiful glance at Frey.

To think you would even lose in a battle of wits.

What?

As Frey tilted his head in puzzlement, Ruby donned a disdainful expression.

Im not as fragile as you, even though Im not in the awakened state. I may not have the lifespan of someone awakened, but I still have far more than an ordinary human.

What does that mean

Unlike you, who goes back and forth between life and death with just a few penalties, I dont collapse with special penalties that only halve my lifespan.

As Frey fell silent, absorbing her words, Ruby showed a sinister smile.

And thanks to this penalty, I got a perfect situation to frame your fake identity.

What?

Right after saying that, Ruby grabbed Freys robe.

Im so strong that I wont get hurt from most things. Of course, if I were to harm myself, I would be injured, but then it would permanently damage me.

Youre not going to

However, if this penalty causes me internal injuries it will be perfect for creating the false accusation that the Hero of Money attacked the Real Hero.

Ruby snapped her fingers, and various pieces of evidence appeared all over the room.

The System only prohibits us revealing each others true identities. However, it doesnt put any restriction on hidden identities.

Ugh.

I would experience no difficulty when making you look like a villain.

Ruby started applying her own blood onto Freys body. She then staggered toward the exit.

If I were to go outside looking like this and request help, what would happen to you?

The best-case scenario would be the cancellation of your fake identity. The worst-case scenario would be the exposure of your identity as Frey. Either way, it would be fun to witness.

Anyway, its been a pleasure to meet with you, Fre

However, she suddenly stumbled and collapsed in front of the door, clutching her stomach.

Kekheugh!?

Uh?

She ended up wearing a perplexed expression, failing to grasp the sudden turn of events. Just as confusion set in, a new warning pop-up materialized before her eyes, further adding to her penalty count.

Penalty

[Stack: 2]

[Special Stack: 1]

There were three errors in what you said until now.

Then, at that moment, Frey, who had approached Ruby, grabbed her chin and began to speak.

Therefore, listen to this carefully.

Ugh.

First, what you just received was not just a special stack from me.

W-What?

Of course, you also have to receive three stacks from Kania, Irina, and Clana as well.

Right as Frey said that.

Penalty

[Stack: 3]

[Special Stack: 1]

Cough!

Rubys penalty stack increased by another one.

H-How is it possible that those three people at once know my identity? Thats impossible

Thats not your business.

Ugh

Listen to the overall story first before you pass out.

Therefore, Frey started infusing a small amount of life force into Rubys stomach. He tapped with his walking staff as Ruby attempted to close her eyes. With a triumphant expression, he continued speaking.

The Demon God played a trick on the quest I received.

Until the quest was completed, she made sure that no penalties apply to you. Did she do that to buy you time to work on various things while I was lying down? Anyway, it was very unfair.

Ugh

However, that trick turned out to be helpful for me.

Saying this, Frey put a little more strength into his walking stick.

Penalty

[Stack: 4]

[Special Stack: 1]

Heuekek

Sometimes overprotection can become a hindrance, and it was your supposed guardian angels fault that she didnt realize that.

Frey continued speaking as he forcibly lifted Ruby, who was on the verge of death after receiving the fourth stack.

Secondly, its not like I have no chance of winning this battle at all.

Besides the three stacks you just received, you also have received a stack before that, right?

!

Rubys eyes widened as she heard his words, and Frey scratched his head while muttering.

Actually, I dont really know what it means either but Serena said its the key

How did you

When Ruby asked with a shaky voice, Frey replied with a smirk.

It is because thats my only chance of winning.

As Rubys eyes wavered for the first time, Frey whispered in her ear with a low voice, just as she did before.

Third and lastly

Cough, cough

Youre the one whos going to experience hell when everything is all over.

Having spoken that, Frey looked into Rubys eyes, which were dimming as she barely held onto consciousness.

So, you can look forward to it.

Then, there was a brief silence.

Cough, cough Ugh

In that moment of silence, Ruby, who had been vomiting a large amount of blood, suddenly burst into a fit of uncontrollable laughter.

Hehe, hehehe

Indeed, you are really an interesting person.

With those words resounding in the air, she immediately lost consciousness.

Phew

A brief hush fell over the scene.

Crackleee!

Frey cast his stellar magic while simultaneously tapping his walking stick on the ground, methodically erasing the carefully arranged pieces of evidence Ruby had set up.. Soon after, he cried out for assistance with a sense of urgency.

I-Is anyone outside!!!

Ms. Ruby collapsed!!!

P-Pardon me?

She suddenly vomited blood and collapsed! Could it have been a chronic illness?

N-now that I think about it, last time

Frey watched as the gathered employees discussed the incident surrounding Rubys collapse and lifted her carefully.

[A Special System has been opened!]

Finally.

Staring at the special system that appeared before his eyes in the midst of the commotion, Frey muttered in a low voice.

It has finally begun.

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.

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Meanwhile, at that moment.

A Special System has been opened?

As a faint glow emanated from her body to conceal her appearance, Glare, who had been discreetly observing the unexpected events through the orphanages window, suddenly focused on an opaque window that had appeared before the robed man. The window appeared slightly blurred for reasons unknown.

No, thats not the most important thing here.

What the hell is the Path of False Evil?

Her body continued to illuminate the darkness with a small shining light

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