That shameless old man

Maria didnt show how she felt internally, but if anyone could look within the girl, they would find out she was very frustrated.

Her reasons were also quite valid.

I wanted to fight him. That Demon Lord I caught him!

Elrich Lendertwale just had to swoop in like a false knight and stole Marias prey from her. It was not only embarrassing, but the girl was disappointed by it.

I missed my chance to do anything She sighed, moving amid the horrific battlefield.

Her protective barrier was on, and her senses were still sharp, so she was in no danger at all. That was why she was able to walk in melancholy while drowning her frustrated thoughts.

I wanted to achieve something I wanted to at least show him how useful I can be. How much Ive grown

Sure, fighting a Demon Lord seemed a bit over the top, but Maria felt like she could achieve it if she played her cards rightnot that the opportunity would ever present itself again.

And so, the pure and innocent girl kept traversing the battlefield. Until

Hey, you!

Someone called out to her.

Marias body halted, and her head slowly turned in the direction of the voice.

From where she stood, the girl could feel the bloodlust the evil energy swirling around the person who stood a good distance from her.

Are you strong?

The one who spoke took on the appearance of a devil.

His red skin, horned forehead, and dangling tail made him appear even more menacing. No doubt, he was a Crimson Demon.

I asked are you strong?

This time, the Crimson Demon stood from the pile of corpses where he previously sat on.

Mangled, burned corpses were strewn all around, but most of them had formed a pile where this Crimson Demon stood.

Disgusting. Maria voiced her thoughts upon taking in the truly grotesque sight.

Still, despite how scary it was, the girl did not run. She simply did not move from her position. Her eyes were still locked with the Crimson Demon.

Hahahaha! Thats the spirit. So, youre strong! Thats good.

In a small leap, the shirtless, muscular Demon descended to the ground, grinning with his sharpened teeth.

His height and build would make most bodybuilders shrink in fear and inferiority. The sheer amount of energy that burst from within him would also make most Mages shrivel up.

But, Maria did no such thing.

She simply watched as he drew closer to her.

My name is Lucien. Im the highest ranked Demon General, second only to the authority of the Demon Lords and the Supreme Lord over the DemonsThe Demon King.

Maria wanted to point out how his statement made no sense considering his hierarchy was third place, not simply second only, but she decided against it.

Her stoic expression simply met the menacing grin of her adversary.

Still, a spark of interest lit up within her.

Highest ranked among the Demon Generals? That should be enough as a consolation prize

It was made painfully clear that she wouldnt be getting the chance to fight a Demon Lord. Maria thought it was wise to go for the next best thingespecially if they came to her on their own accord.

Alright. Lets begin, then. She softly smiled, readying herself for battle.

>WHOOOOOSSSSHHHHVWUUSHHBOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMBOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMM