I was guided to the high seat, just one below the Demon King himself, Lilith still at my side.
The demons parted as I walked, bowing their heads once more before returning to their seats, the air buzzing with something I hadn't expected: excitement.
"Raise your cups!"
The Demon King declared.
"TO LORD AESTREA!"
The hall shook with thunderous agreement.
Clink!
Goblets clashed together, wine sloshing over the edges as three hundred voices toasted my name.
I leaned back slightly, lifting my own cup, amused despite myself.
"Oh?"
The wine was rich, thicker than any human brew, burning pleasantly down my throat with a sweetness that lingered.
Across the table, a tall demon leaned toward me, his heavy armor clinking as he rested an elbow against the wood.
His horns curled like a ram's, his crimson eyes were sharp but not hostile.
"My lord," he began with a small smile.
