A few years had passed, and Azire was now fifteen, while Suna had blossomed into a sixteen-year-old beauty, effortlessly drawing the attention of every guy in town. Though they were merely acquaintances, Azire found himself developing feelings for her. He often dismissed these emotions, convincing himself that he was only using her to maintain focus on his goals.
Azire had become decently skilled in hand-to-hand combat over the years, but his magic training had lagged. He hadn't devoted much time to honing his magical abilities, instead focusing on his unique eye, which had revealed three intriguing powers: the ability to summon a protective barrier marked with a symbol from his eye, the power to read people's thoughts, and heightened senses. He sensed there were more abilities waiting to be unlocked, but for now, he preferred to take things step by step until he felt ready.
Suna had been teaching him about the world's complex diplomatic issues, sharing insights on the current hierarchy: 1. Angels, 2. Fallen Angels, 3. Humans, 4. Beasts, and 5. Demons. She explained that demons had fallen to the lowest rank due to the rising power of humans, particularly the queen, who wielded a formidable staff. Intrigued by the shifting balance of power, Azire began asking around the village about the Fallen Angels. Eventually, he uncovered whispers of a shadowy group known as the "Forgettables"—an elusive faction moving in the darkness, ensuring that no one remembered their existence. No one knew their true purpose, only that they had conflicts with the Fallen Angel kingdom. Azire saw them as a potential threat; he couldn't trust something that chose to remain hidden. He, of all people, knew that secrecy often concealed danger.
After contemplating these revelations, Azire stood up and brushed it off. "There's nothing we can do about it right now," he muttered, dismissing the thought.
Deciding it was time for a change in appearance, he resolved to embrace the role of the Demon King. Turning to Suna, he suggested, "Let's go get some new clothes." She readily agreed.
Together, they ventured into the market. Azire chose an all-black ensemble—black shoes, black pants, and a black shirt—exuding a calm yet commanding presence. As he browsed, he discovered a striking robe adorned with intricate designs cascading down his back. The aura of the garment resonated with his ambitions. Suna couldn't help but notice the two small horns atop his head but wisely refrained from asking about them, not wanting to pry into any sensitive areas.
After Azire finalized his outfit, Suna searched for her own attire. Unlike Azire's dark choices, she selected an all-white robe resembling a kimono, claiming it would enhance her magical abilities in some mysterious way. With their new outfits, they decided to train, heading out of the village to hone their skills.
As they practiced, Uno appeared on a tree before them. "Hello, my successors," it greeted, drawing their attention. "I know you've both been hard at work training these past few years, and given the current state of affairs, we need more funds."
"So, we have to do a quest?" Azire asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, exactly," Uno confirmed.
Excitement bubbled within Azire and Suna, and they shouted in unison, "Finally! I've been working my ass off, and now I finally get to fight!"
Uno held up a hand. "Hold your celebrations. You don't know what you may encounter or who you might run into. Word on the street is that a new Demon King has emerged and taken control of the demons."
Hearing this, Azire's mind raced. A new Demon King? What the hell? There's an imposter claiming my title! I am the only Demon King, and anyone who dares to oppose me shall meet a long, sad, and painful end.
Uno studied Azire carefully. Beneath his hair, a faint red glow pulsed ominously. What are you really, Mr. Azire Han? the sensei wondered.
They returned to the hotel, where Uno instructed them to prepare for their upcoming adventure. "I will go get the quest; you both stay here and ready yourselves for what lies ahead."
With determination igniting in his heart, Azire knew this was just the beginning of a journey that would define him—and shape the fate of nyxvaris.