Gotta Get Gucci (Gucci's POV)

When Gucci the Ancient Devil scrambled to hide his books and videos, he forgot something critical. That his fellow actors would have copies as well. And said copies were making their way to the Demon Kingdom...not if Machio Hiraku the "normal human" has anything to say about it. Time to help out this Devil King...and gain more than he bargained for. Machio Hiraku x Gucci. Machio Hiraku x all canon wives and lovers as well as women who are not explicitly stated to be his wives or lovers in canon. CHUUNI OVERLOAD!!!

Work Text:

Hello readers! It's been forever!

I got into Isekai Nonbiri Nouka a while back and suddenly felt the urge to write. I wrote this story in both Hiraku's and Gucci's POVs, but it's best to read Hiraku's POV—the other one—first. Gucci's POV reveals so many things not included in Hiraku's POV!

I will use whichever spelling for the names I feel most comfortable with. For example, I will be writing "Gucci" instead of "Guchi", the spelling found on the wiki.

I will also be using the「」marks instead of "" (unless already inside「」marks) because that is how the original novel reads.

WARNING: Gucci's POV is FAR more raunchy than Hiraku's POV, due to Gucci being FAR less reserved than Hiraku. Gucci was also privy to...some risqué conversations Hiraku himself was NEVER a part of. Still vague enough to not be Rated M, though. JUST BARELY.

I was originally going to have the full introduction section in Gucci's POV, but it ended up being WAY too long! I decided to just drastically shorten the introduction section in the actual story, and post the original as a sort of Part 2 to this series.

It is essentially a partial, slightly anachronistic recap to the events of Isekai Nonbiri Nouka in Gucci's POV. Of course, not official. Read it before this story if you want!

If you want to read the entire series in order, here is it: Gotta Get Gucci (Hiraku's POV), Gotta Get Gucci (Gucci's POV Prologue), and Gotta Get Gucci (Gucci's POV). Read this as the third part (or second part, if you want to skip the optional prologue)!

Or for the best experience, open Hiraku's POV and Gucci's POV in separate tabs and read them simultaneously. This will allow you to easily see what the other is thinking in any particular scene. Just keep in mind that since Gucci's POV contains parts not included in Hiraku's POV, Gucci's POV is longer than Hiraku's POV.

Disclaimer: I do not own any aspect of Isekai Nonbiri Nouka. It belongs to Kinosuke Naito. I only own this and every other story I have.

My name is Gucci.

I am an Ancient Devil who is roughly 2,500 years old. My title is《Brave》, and I spent my entire immortal existence living up to said title. Seeking power, trying all sorts of things, becoming Devil King with the help of Prada—who was known as《Gold Coin》then—over Beton, an Ancient She-Devil previously known as《Disease》who coveted the same position...I have been displaying bravery this whole time. I bravely led the Ancient Devils with Bulga and Stifano—known as《Selfless Love》and《Indebted Love》back then—to conquer the world...only for us to be stopped by Doosu the Emperor Dragon.

After our defeat, I, as Devil King, allied myself and all the Ancient Devils to Doosu the Emperor Dragon and all the Divine Dragons. We had to survive at all costs. I couldn't let us Ancient Devils be annihilated as a consequence of our defeat. That's why I sided us with the victors, and bound us all with a contract solidifying our subordination.

For centuries, we Ancient Devils have served the Divine Dragons. Of course, not every single individual Ancient Devil serves a Divine Dragon. For one, Beton instead chose to wander the world. However, even those independent Ancient Devils are bound by that contract, and cannot—and will not—break its terms. We Ancient Devils value our contracts so much, after all.

For centuries, I personally served Doosu-sama until his first son, Doraim-sama and the future Gatekeeper Dragon, was born. Since then, I have personally served Doraim-sama and moved to his lair at the southern border of the Forest of Death alongside a large group of Ancient Devils after he fledged.

I have been with Doraim-sama his entire life, dutifully serving him. From his formative years to watching as he was pursued by Graffalun-sama to being present at his only child Lastismun-sama's birth, I have been there to watch it all.

For centuries, we Ancient Devils had just been surviving. But only after meeting him did we actually begin to thrive.

What an eventful fifteen years it has been. Is it any wonder I fell deeply and madly in love with Village Chief, Hiraku-sama, after all that has happened?

But I know my dream won't come true. Hiraku-sama only likes women. He is as straight as I am gay. His dislike of BL proves just how much he doesn't want to be with another man.

Even so, I can't bear to be apart from Hiraku-sama. This is the first time I felt so happy, so alive. I was never this happy even when we Ancient Devils were at the height of our power. My fellow Ancient Devils feel the same.

I'll do whatever I can to remain at Hiraku-sama's side, even if I have to seal my feelings of deep and mad love towards him. I love him. I love him. I love him more than anything or anyone else. I love him no matter how much it hurts. I can't afford to be apart from him. Even if I can never tell him how much I love him.

Everything would change on this day, in ways I could have never imagined.

It started as a normal day, like any other. Doraim-sama and I were preparing to visit Taiju Village. Even after becoming more responsible, Doraim-sama still enjoys visiting Taiju Village whenever he can. Especially since his nephews, niece, and grandchildren are there. He is no longer so afraid of Hakuren-sama, so there are no deterrents to visiting.

We flew out from Doraim-sama's lair with Doraim-sama in dragon form and me beside him. We were heading to that divine domain for the umpteenth time, about to enjoy ourselves...when disaster struck.

N-No way! I could vaguely sense something familiar, something dreadfully, dreadfully familiar! This magical signature, the only things with this magical signature! Those books! Those videos! My shameful past!

I thought I had all of them! I managed to find all the buyers I knew about and gave them sums of gold enough to build endless generational wealth! I hid them all in the abandoned ruins, and a sizable portion was destroyed in that ruins explosion! I even gave the surviving books and videos to Versa-sama, and triggered the worst incident in recent history by allowing Hermes to run free and make Hiraku-sama go missing in the middle of the night! How could I ever forget that?!

I quickly cast a mass tracking spell on the books and videos bearing my magical signature. I could sense them, but not know exactly where they were. Casting the mass tracking spell was a cinch thanks to all the magic I gained from absorbing all one hundred of Guronde's scales I purchased from Hiraku-sama. I'm even stronger than Doosu-sama now, so this much was simple.

But just why?! Why are there so many?! Who could have had all these books and videos—no way! N-No way! My fellow actors!

Why didn't I think of that before?! OF COURSE my fellow actors would have copies as well! Why didn't I think of approaching them too?! Was it because of the shame of doing such wild acts with them?! And even the actors I was never involved with! Was the shame of the mischievousness of my youth too much for me to see those people ever again?! I AM SO STUPID!!!

The mass tracking spell latched onto all of its targets. There was such a huge amount of books and videos, all of them heading to Shashaato City and Village Five in the Demon Kingdom. I could tell, from the mass tracking spell, that the caravans carrying the books and videos belonged to a fanatical group of BL lovers, and the paths the caravans are taking—don't tell me! Are the ones heading to Shashaato City going to bookstores all over, and are the ones heading to Village Five going to Patisserie Fairy Fairy, basically the BL capital of Village Five?! No. No! NO!

「Gucci. What are you doing?」

Of course Doraim-sama could tell something was wrong.

「D-Doraim-sama! I have to go—」

「And what is so urgent that my butler dares leave my side without permission?」

I couldn't afford to hide anything, though! Time was running out! The caravans were fast approaching!

「M-My books and videos! There were still a lot left that I never recovered! And they are on the way to Shashaato City and Village Five—」

「—No! You are not allowed to leave my side!」

Doraim-sama shot me a full-force glare.

「You are absolutely forbidden from attacking the caravans! You want to be labeled a criminal for attacking innocent civilians?!」

「I was never planning on attacking them! I just want to buy everything from them!」

We landed at Taiju Village just then. Doraim-sama transformed into his human form as we entered. I rushed to match his stride. Time is of the essence! I MUST convince him!

「PLEASE grant me an exception and let my destroy those materials after buying them! I can't live with this shame!」

「You dare even suggest wanting to break your contract?! And how could you possibly even retrieve all of your books and videos before some of them make it to store shelves and buyers' hands?! Do you plan on hunting them all down?!」

We were in the middle of the village. Thank goodness no one was paying us any mind even as our argument became more intense.

「I-I have my ways! I won't hurt anyone or damage anything! I served you ever since you were a hatchling and have been by your side your entire life! Please, do this one thing for me!」

Doraim-sama was not convinced, not even the slightest bit moved.

「Of course you had—and have—to serve me! You lost to esteemed father, and this is the consequence!」

Nothing was working! Time is of the essence! Do I have to overpower Doraim-sama and teleport away?! What's a few more violations of the contract—NO! I'll never be forgiven, not by Doosu-sama and especially not by Hiraku-sama! I may be able to overpower Doosu-sama now, but I could NEVER overpower Hiraku-sama! I can't afford to anger a god! Doraim-sama is both his father-in-law and brother-in-law, after all! And even if I could overpower Hiraku-sama, I don't ever want to hurt him! I can't even bear the thought of hurting him, my dear god!

I need to beg, beg, beg! Get through to Doraim-sama's cold heart!

「Doraim-sama, please! Just this once!」

「Gucci! How many times do I have to tell you, no!」

Why can't I have this one exception?! Why? Why?! WHY?!

「You know what will happen once those materials reach the stores in Shashaato City and Village Five, right?!」

「Gucci...what does the contract between the Divine Dragons and the Ancient Devils say...」

「...We wouldn't intentionally destroy culture and it would be a violation of the contract to dispose of the books and videos.」

「Exactly! I personally do not care what happens to such books and videos, but you Ancient Devils honor your contracts and will not break them. As the Devil King, do you want to set such a terrible precedent for your fellow Ancient Devils?!」

「B-But—」

「Can't you just give them to Versa, like last time?!」

「There's way too much stuff this time! And I don't want a repeat of that night...」

That night! That night Hiraku-sama went missing, all because I let Hermes essentially go free and cause so much trouble! I can't have another repeat of such a disastrous night!

Just why am I not allowed to destroy my books and videos, my shameful past?! I could feel the hot stinging of tears in my eyes and felt my knees go weak. I have to bow, bow lower than I have ever bowed before! I MUST convince—

「What's going on?」

「V-Village Chief!」

「Village Chief!」

N-No way! Since when was Hiraku-sama there?! It's like he appeared out of nowhere! Why did he have to see me in such a shameful state?!

「Village Chief, I apologize for my butler's unseemly display. You should have never had to witness that.」

「I-I'm so sorry, Village Chief!」

「Don't apologize, Gucci. More importantly, is something wrong?」

「Gucci, don't involve Village Chief in your affairs again—」

「Doraim, just let Gucci tell me.」

「...Yes, Village Chief.」

Hiraku-sama led us to his room in his mansion before going any further. Said it was the most private room in the entire village when not nighttime. What I would give to be invited to his room at nighttime—ahem! Ahem!

Anyways...once again, this god's thoughtfulness knows no bounds. He didn't force me to confess my sins in front of everyone. Even if this is not the invitation I always wanted, I am eternally grateful I don't have to expose more people to my shameful past.

I proceeded to tell him what was going on. That despite the ruins explosion taking out a sizable potion of my books and videos I possessed and I gave the surviving copies to Versa-sama, I critically forgot that my fellow actors would have copies as well. That those forgotten copies had been purchased by a fanatical group of BL lovers and were on the way to Shashaato City and Village Five. That the shipment to the closest bookstore in Shashaato City was literally only fifteen minutes away from being delivered, and there were MANY more deliveries that would be only minutes apart. That the Village Five shipment was about five hours away.

「Ugh...」

Hiraku-sama appeared to be suffering from a splitting headache. How much I have troubled my dear god. I must not trouble him any further!

「P-Please, Doraim-sama!」

「How many times do I have to say it, no. No! NO!」

Why is Doraim-sama being so stubborn?! Is there really no one who can help me—

「Doraim, I'm taking Gucci with me to Shashaato City and then Village Five. Alone.」

「What?!」

「W-What?!」

W-What did Hiraku-sama just say?!

「It's just as I said. I'm taking Gucci with me to Shashaato City and then Village Five. Alone.」

「But I can't just let my butler go out in the morning! He's got so many important things to do!」

「I'll give you a full barrel of Nerima Daikon wine I had personally asked to be made.」

「Nerima Daikon? What's that?」

Why did the word "daikon" sound so familiar? I heard that word when a certain root vegetable is mentioned—

「It's a kind of radish.」

「Radish? Radish! Radish wine?! Is such a miraculous combination even real?!」

W-What?! A radish wine?! Hiraku-sama had something that combined two of Doraim-sama's greatest weaknesses, radishes and wine, and is going to just it give Doraim-sama?! A full barrel?! How generous my god is! But why?! Is Hiraku-sama really going to help me?!

「Ahem. Well, I can have the oni maids tend to me. Gucci can go.」

「That settles it. Gucci, wait by the front of the village while I show Doraim to the Nerima Daikon wine barrel and get some other things ready.」

「O-Okay...」

As expected of a god, being able to easily sway my cold-hearted master when not the begging and pleading of his most loyal servant could do a thing. I don't know why Hiraku-sama told me me to wait in front of the village while he led Doraim-sama to the Nerima Daikon wine barrel, but I'll do as I'm told. I am completely faithful to my dear god.

As I passed by, I could see Lastismun-sama and Hakuren-sama give me thumbs-ups. N-No way! Is what Rurushi-sama said true?! Even the oni maids are giving me thumbs-ups! Is what Rurushi-sama said really true?!

Speak of the devil. N-Not me, the saying! I was just thinking of Rurushi-sama, and she was right there, meeting me at the front of Hiraku-sama's mansion!

「Oh. Are you going to make your move now?」

Rurushi-sama matched my stride as I walked to the front of the village, like Hiraku-sama commanded. She smirked, giving me a knowing glance.

I was reminded of a particular exchange.

It was several days ago. A large group of people visited Taiju Village all at once, all while Hiraku-sama was tilling the fields. Such a hardworking, devoted god.

We all gathered in the inn while waiting for our hardworking, devoted god to finish his work. And then the discussion shifted to WHICH God our hardworking, devoted god is, for the umpteenth time...

「God of Magic!」

It was Beezel the demon. He looked so confident and assured, as though he knew he was right.

「In just a few years, Great Demon King-sama transformed the world like magic. I think he pretends to not know any magic to hide the fact he is the God of Magic.」

Many nods of agreement. Even I could see Beezel the demon's point. But wow, just how much magical prowess must Hiraku-sama possess to be able to hide it all from everyone?

「I think Village Chief is the God of Humbleness.」

I think so too! Doraim-sama is absolutely correct! Hiraku-sama is the very definition of humbleness!

「I understand what you mean. Despite Village Chief's immense wealth and power, he keeps himself unknown and only uses his wealth to benefit others. If that's not humbleness, I don't know what is.」

Michael the human is also absolutely correct! Keeping himself hidden, only seeking to help others, making a living as a farmer, taking joy in raising an ever-expanding family...Hiraku-sama really is the God of Humbleness!

「The God of Magic and Humbleness…I didn't know the God of Magic had anything to do with humbleness.」

Gods can have authorities over multiple things, like Ancient Devils can. It's not surprising Hiraku-sama can both be the God of Magic AND the God of Humbleness.

Despite all that he has done, Hiraku-sama refuses to become Demon King or Emperor Dragon, forcing Gargard and Doosu-sama to give Hiraku-sama secret titles such as "Great Demon King" and "True Emperor Dragon". God of Magic, God of Humbleness, Great Demon King, True Emperor Dragon...Hiraku-sama is most obviously the God of Humbleness, though, so I'm going to keep referring to him as that and that ALONE. Especially since he's about to get even more titles.

And I was right.

「God of Food!」

「God of Peace!」

「God of Kindness!」

「God of Forgiveness!」

「God of Families!」

「God of People!」

「God of Agriculture!」

The Immortal shook his head at that.

「The God of Agriculture looks nothing like Village Chief. I personally think Village Chief is the Creator God's familiar.」

「Gods can change appearances, can't they?! What ELSE is more of an appropriate title for Village Chief than God of Agriculture?!」

「God of Sex!」

Everyone turned to Rurushi-sama as she screamed that. She appeared completely indignant even as she flushed completely red.

「W-What?! Why else does anyone think I wanted my dear husband to have so many wives and lovers in the first place?!」

The room suddenly became animated at that.

「Rurushi is right! She and I alone could never handle such a beast! Don't be fooled, dear husband is a monster in bed!」

「He's able to handle us all at once! Thanks to him, we never had any need to secure another supply of seed! Not that there is any higher quality seed. And he never runs out, it's endless!」

「Ahem...Onee-sama made the perfect choice. In more ways than one.」

「Our dear master spoils us so much. He serves us, and we serve him.」

「I'm so glad Tia-sama gave us permission to pursue such a great man!」

「I-I can't believe there is a man capable of satisfying me, and I thought I could NEVER be satisfied!」

「Village Chief's seed is so potent, it helped me mature! That's how I was capable of carrying a child!」

「I was always so afraid of my first time, fearing it would hurt. Village Chief was so gentle, and always makes sure to make me feel good!」

Doraim-sama and Beezel the demon looked away, faces completely red. I can't blame them. What father wants to hear about his daughter's nightly activities?!

「This is why I was single for so long! I was saving myself for the perfect man!」

Sure, Hakuren-sama. Sure...

Doosu-sama still looked quite pleased, though. It had always been his dream for Hakuren-sama to bear a child, after all. And she bore three, thanks to Hiraku-sama.

「To this day, we are endlessly grateful Hakuren-sama brought us here. We could have never procured such a fantastic supply of seed in the mountains.」

And it was STILL not done.

「God makes my late husband look impotent.」

「M-Mother! Don't speak ill of the dead!」

「Oh? Aren't you the one who's always saying your father was a good-for-nothing who only had a handsome face?」

「S-Shut up!」

「Aren't you glad you gave up on God's sons?」

「...Sharing God is not the same as sharing any lesser man. God is the only exception.」

「Fufu. I can't blame you, though. God is above all else.」

「Can you feel it, Suarukou? The liveliness of God's child?」

「I absolutely can, Suaruriu! The beautiful acts leading to the creation of God's child, God's child moving in my womb...I have never felt so complete!」

「At this rate, I'll be bearing you two another sister shortly after you two bear me granddaughters.」

「And we can raise them all as sisters! That's SO cute!」

「EEEEEEEE!」

「Let's bring more Marias into the world, dear daughter.」

「T-Together?! Mother, I feel so insecure next to you! Your assets are MUCH larger than mine!」

「Look at Malbit with Kiabit and Suarurou with Suaruriu and Suarukou. No need to be shy.」

「M-Mother...」

「Humph. We have the opposite problem as Raz Maria and Gran Maria, don't we, Tia?」

「Mother, don't be so insecure! You're beautiful just the way you are! Dear husband thinks so, too!」

「I feel left out since I can't please God alongside my mother.」

「Same here. Just keep applying your dive bombing technique as best you can to the bedroom.」

「C-Corone?!」

「I'll keep doing my best as well.」

And it was STILL not done.

「The wait was worthwhile!」

「I'll give up my noble titles again and again if I can always be with Village Chief!」

「Now we don't have to be jealous of our sisters anymore!」

「In fact, our sisters must be jealous of US now! Thanks to the Fairy Queen, ALL of us will have the easiest pregnancies and deliveries possible! If it wasn't for my large belly and the lively movements of my dear baby, I wouldn't even have known I'm pregnant!」

「We need to hurry up and help Yuuri-sama become one of Village Chief's wives, too!」

「I see how Yuuri-sama keeps staring at her ringless finger and keeps rubbing her empty belly. I can barely stop myself from bursting into tears, especially when I look at all the beautiful rings Village Chief personally made for us wives and see our own pregnant bellies!」

「We all see how much she wants it!」

「There is no other man even remotely worthy of her!」

「We need to make Demon King-sama see this as well!」

「Village Chief no longer has an excuse to refuse us, now that we're all grown up.」

「I've been continuing my assault on Village Chief.」

「One of these days, I'll be making my dear father Village Chief's father-in-law. He's already been guarding Village Chief alongside Daga-san for so long.」

「Your father? You mean Garf-san?」

「Yep. Time to tie our families together. I'll work hard to make it a reality.」

Conversations like that continued to erupt all over the inn. Our discussion had LONG since been derailed. The men, unable to hide their discomfort any longer, filed out of the building. Looks like they'll be waiting for Hiraku-sama ELSEHWHERE. Even Doosu-sama couldn't stay any longer.

Before I could leave as well, I felt a sudden tap on my shoulder. I turned around only to meet Rurushi-sama's playful gaze. She snatched my wrist, pulling me aside.

「Gucci the Ancient Devil, you're in love with my dear husband as well, aren't you?」

W-What?! Her smirk only deepened, eyes narrowed in a knowing manner.

「Don't deny it. Call it a woman's intuition, if you will.」

I could no longer meet her playful gaze. Why is she not angry instead?!

「...You know Village Chief doesn't like men. He doesn't have a single man in his harem of hundreds.」

Don't think I never saw the kind of attention Hiraku-sama has received from men, not just me! The young male minotaurs of Village Two, the young male centaurs of Village Three, young demon men after learning of Hiraku-sama's greatness, older demon men who wanted to offer their sons to Hiraku-sama since they had no daughters to offer instead. Annoying, but not major threats. The most major threat is Kuzuden of Village Four.

Kuzuden, the regular devil who foolishly declared war on Hiraku-sama the moment the Sun Castle drifted too close. Kuzuden, the regular devil who didn't stop Gou the Mercury from using his image and had to dogeza to Hiraku-sama for his inability. Kuzuden, the regular devil who began worshipping Hiraku-sama after he liberated the Sun Castle and its inhabitants. Kuzuden, the regular devil who swore his eternal allegiance to Hiraku-sama after Hiraku-sama solved all of the Sun Castle's problems, welcoming it as Village Four and the Sun Village. THAT DAMNED KUZUDEN!

「Heh. You sure look jealous. Not only of other men, but of us too.」

Rurushi-sama's remark brought me back to reality. I have to regain my composure. I have to regain my composure!

「What's the point of being jealous of something I can never have?」

If I—A MAN—was to sneak into Hiraku-sama's room at night, I wouldn't be plowed into the bed, I would be plowed into fertilizer! WHY DID I HAVE TO BE BORN A MAN?!

「Don't be so sure about that.」

Rurushi-sama's smirk softened into a smile.

「I, and dear husband's other wives and lovers, already approve of you. Remember, Count Pugyaru is the root of all evil, not you. Besides, I can see how much you love my dear husband. I can't let such love go unfulfilled.」

J-Just what is she saying?!

「I-I'm eternally grateful that you all support me. But I know I don't have a chance.」

That smirk returned full-force.

「How about we make a deal? I and my dear husband's other wives and lovers will help you get together with my dear husband. If you two get married, you owe me a golden mirror that puts the silver mirror you gave my dear husband to complete and utter shame.」

「...」

What could I say to that?! What could I say to something that was absolutely impossible?!

But Rurushi-sama looked so certain. As though she KNOWS it's going to happen. She then walked away, satisfied with our conversation.

Rurushi-sama and I finally reached the front of the village. Since Hiraku-sama was leading Doraim-sama to the Nerima Daikon wine barrel and had to get some things ready as well, we were left alone for a bit.

「Whatever you do, trust my dear husband. He may be hard to understand, his actions may appear to be strange, and he may not explain himself well. I am the first wife and have known dear husband the longest, but even I still don't fully understand him. No matter how hard-to-understand, strange, or vague dear husband's actions are, know this. Dear husband always works to help those he holds dear. That includes you, too. I think we both know what this is about.」

For the nth time, Rurushi-sama smirked at me.

「I can tell just how much you care about my dear husband. I can feel how you pushed yourself to the limit to get stronger. Did you absorb all hundred of Guronde's scales you bought from dear husband? I can tell you learned Shisou-sama's teleportation magic, too. You must really love my dear husband, wanting to help him so much.」

"Great Sage" is a fitting title! I couldn't hide my heightened magical prowess from her, just like how I couldn't hide it from the Immortal!

Her smirk softened into a smile yet again.

「We're all rooting for you. We'll make sure you can be alone with my dear husband. Remember, no matter what, just trust him.」

As though summoned by Rurushi-sama's words, Hiraku-sama came into view. She smirked once more before turning to leave.

「I'll be expecting that golden mirror by tomorrow.」

She winked at me before waving at Hiraku-sama.

「Bye, dear husband! Have fun with Gucci!」

Rurushi-sama then rushed to talk to Daga the lizardman and Garf the beastkin. They then nodded before turning to Hiraku-sama, waving us off as well. Rurushi-sama did make sure Hiraku-sama and I could be alone. That means no one else will be there to guard him. I, as Devil King, pledge to guard my dear god no matter what.

I could barely return my complexion and composure back to normal when Hiraku-sama reached me at last.

「Are you ready to go?」

「Y-Yeah...」

Hiraku-sama then took out a cloak and held it out towards me.

「Wear this. Ru made this invisibility cloak that makes the wearer completely undetectable except to the wearer themselves, the maker, and the owner. Apparently, it even works against dragons and Ancestor-san. In other words, only you, Ru, and I can see and sense you once you put this on.」

「W-Why do I need to put this on?!」

「Just trust me. We don't have enough time.」

「...Y-Yes.」

Just trust him, just trust him. Like Rurushi-sama told me to do. Like Hiraku-sama himself told me to do. Just trust him.

I put on the cloak, and watched as some of the passing Inferno Wolves and Demon Spiders stared in shock as though I had disappeared. Although to them, I had disappeared. Hiraku-sama still kept his eyes on me, though. He must actually still be able to see me. What a cloak the Great Sage had made.

「Now take us to Shashaato City, to the bookstore that will receive the first shipment.」

「...」

W-What?! Why?! Why there?! Why do we need to go there?! JUST WHY?!

I only snapped out of my spiraling thoughts once Hiraku-sama harshly grabbed my shoulders. I had no choice but to give my full attention to him then.

「Just. Do. It.」

「—!」

Why dear god, why?! What did I do to deserve such divine punishment?! But I had no choice but to listen.

I quickly cast the Immortal's teleportation spell, bringing us to the first of the horrid places.

-0-

「This is it, huh?」

No. No! NO! BeLieve, as in BL. Boys' Love, the exact genre I had supporting roles in. This bookstore must be one of the covert places selling BL! Of course, only to people already in the know. I could clearly sense both my magical signature and the tracking spell coming from inside the store. NO! NOO! NOOO!

「Come in with me.」

I jolted at his words. WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME, DEAR GOD?!

「Just because you are invisible and undetectable, that doesn't mean you are intangible. I don't want people bumping into you.」

「...」

Still so thoughtful, even as my dear god is actively betraying me. I walked ahead, but each step felt like I was walking to the gallows. Hiraku-sama looked annoyed, but kept his focus forward.

「Cast magic that prevents anyone from coming in or out after we go in. Also cast magic that prevents anyone from seeing what is going on from outside. Soundproof this place, too.」

「...」

My god may have forsaken me, but he is still my dear god. This betrayal did nothing to erase all that he has done for me and my fellow Ancient Devils. So I listened. My heightened magical prowess made casting such spells a cinch. Despite me basically walking to my death.

The bell signaled our entry. Hiraku-sama held the door open for me, as to not reveal my presence. Why does Hiraku-sama always have to be so thoughtful, even as he is betraying me?! All the boxes. The signs and pictures about to be set up. BeLieve is about to set up my display and sell my books and videos! NOOO!

「Tell me your stage name. Right. Now.」

It was quiet, but firm. A command I could not afford to disobey.

「...Gotta Get Gucci.」

...

Hiraku-sama went silent. Come on, say something! Why aren't you saying anything?!

Instead of doing that, Hiraku-sama rushed up to the manager just as the first box was opened.

「I want to buy all of Gotta Get Gucci's books and videos.」

W-W-What?! He wants to buy my books and videos?! Why?! WHY?! WHY?!

The sudden uproarious laughter from the manager was the only thing that snapped me out of my downwards spiral.

「Did you hear that?! This nondescript human man wants to buy all of Gotta Get Gucci's books and videos!」

The other employees joined their manager in the uproarious laughter. Even the customers browsing the store stopped what they were doing just to join in on that uproarious laughter.

How dare you. How dare you! HOW DARE YOU LAUGH AT MY DEAR GOD!

Betrayal be damned. I WON'T FORGIVE ANYONE WHO INSULTS MY DEAR GOD! NO ONE!

The only reason I DID NOT kill all the blasphemers where they stood, even with them all being women, was because of a single look Hiraku-sama shot me. Too kind to everyone, even to those laughing at him, even to those he is betraying.

「Gotta Get Gucci is the most popular actor of them all! Do you have any idea how hard it was to get these books and videos?! We were beyond lucky any of us got our hands on them! How did you, a man, even learn about this?」

「...I have my ways.」

I wish I could reveal myself just to look at all their stunned faces, but I know Hiraku-sama wouldn't want that. I wouldn't be able to stop myself from killing them all if I did that, after all.

「Can you even afford it all?! I spent all of BeLieve's funds and took out huge loans just to barely afford them!」

「You mean with this?」

The uproarious laughter suddenly ceased the moment Hiraku-sama took out what appeared to be a hyperspace bag made by the Great Sage, and proceeded to dump about a barrel-size amount of gold onto the ground. Too bad everyone got of the way of that cascade of gold, and too bad disaster-defense magic built into the store protected anything from getting harmed.

「W-What the?!」

Hiraku-sama proceeded to suck all that gold back into the bag, completely cleaning up his mess. Aww, he should have left it all there for them to clean up!

「So, is that enough?」

The managers, employees, and customers were stunned into silence.

「...」

The manager and employees suddenly bowed to Hiraku-sama as the customers looked at him like the god he is. Humph. That's what I thought.

「As I was saying, I want to buy all of Gotta Get Gucci's books and videos. I also want to buy the signage and pictures. Basically, make it as though there was never going to be a Gotta Get Gucci display in the first place.」

「Y-Yes! Luckily, we haven't unpacked anything yet. Listen to this esteemed sir and give him everything!」

「Hey, I was going to buy one!」

「I was waiting the moment I heard!」

「You can't just buy them all!」

Hiraku-sama gave everyone who complained a shoebox-size amount of gold each, all easily stored within the Great Sage's bag. Endless complaints were instantly silenced with generous offerings of gold.

「YAY!」

「I'M RICH, RICHER THAN RICH!」

「I CAN GET OUT OF POVERTY NOW!」

Hiraku-sama managed to buy everyone's silence, even the employees', with offerings of gold, given to such undeserving beings.

The horrid manager bowed to Hiraku-sama once more as he handed her the offered barrel-sized amount of gold. Oh, NOW you are respectful!

「Thank you very much! I'll never forget this kindness!」

「Thank you very much!」

The employees bowed as well.

「H-Hey! What's going on!」

「I can't get out!」

W-Wait?! Is that why Hiraku-sama had me cast those spells that prevent people from coming in or going out?! But I had no chance to ask as Hiraku-sama tugged at his collar, signaling for a Demon Spiderling to crawl out.

「AHHH!」

Everyone but Hiraku-sama and I fainted. D-Did my dear god just Stun Bash everyone here?!

「Gucci.」

I was shocked into silence. Only my dear god calling my name jolted me out of my stupor.

「Y-Yes!」

「Bring us and my purchases to this place.」

Hiraku-sama gave me a map of Shashaato City. It appeared to be quite a recent one, judging by how unwrinkled the paper was.

There was a large circle over what appeared to be a large warehouse. I could tell its exact location just by looking at the map.

「But before you do that, alter everyone's memories here. Make them forget my face and me bringing out the spiderling. And also make everyone's memories get hazy whenever they try to recall this incident. In other words, make it seem like someone just went in and bought everything related to Gotta Get Gucci without any incident.」

B-But why?! Why did Hiraku-sama do all that?!

「Oh, and clean everyone up too.」

「...Okay.」

No matter what Hiraku-sama does to me, I cannot and will not disobey him. I cannot go against my dear god, after all. I removed the spells that prevented anyone from going in and coming out, as well as the spells that prevented anyone from seeing and hearing what was going on inside. I cleaned up everyone with magic, too. A nasty side effect of Stun Bashing.

For some reason, the Demon Spiderling touched Hiraku-sama's cheek as I teleported us away. I wonder what a god would need to be reassured about.

-0-

We were at the warehouse Hiraku-sama circled on that map. It was large and empty, and Hiraku-sama had me light up the space. And then I saw them. The materials from BeLieve Hiraku-sama purchased, the ones he had me bring to this very place.

Why?! Why?! WHY?!

Is it because Versa-sama is the Immortal's wife, essentially making her your grandmother-in-law?!

「W-What are you—」

「Shh! Just watch!」

You would betray me, someone who has been completely loyal to you for almost fifteen years, but for what—

「Oops. I tripped.」

What?! What?! WHAT?!

D-Did Hiraku-sama just strike a box with Holy Lance Gryme in hoe form, and did he just turn it into fertilizer?! Or did he actually trip and just strike it on accident?! But Hiraku-sama sucking up the resulting fertilizer couldn't have been an accident, could it?! Unless he was just making best use of the accident! I don't know anymore...

「Check your contract.」

C-Check my contract?! W-What does that have to do with anything—HUH?! I couldn't help but gasp VERY loudly.

「Nothing happened! Nothing got violated! But how?!」

「I remember you telling me about the explosion at the ruins, but nothing about your contract being violated. You were confessing to me that time, so I am absolutely certain you weren't trying to hide anything. So why not mention anything about your contract being violated? Because your contract was NOT violated. Not only was the explosion unintentional, you didn't have anything to do with it. Therefore, I was thinking if I bought the materials and I "unintentionally" destroyed them, they could be destroyed without any violations, just like that time.」

「W-Why didn't you just tell me?!」

「I was thinking if you knew, it wouldn't be so "unintentional" and therefore would risk violating your contract. We were also running out of time. You saw how they were literally about to set up the display and unbox the materials just as we got there. Who knows what would have happened if we were even a minute late.」

B-But what about—

Hiraku-sama didn't let me get another word in. He was not done explaining, it seems.

「Oh, and I didn't just tell you to buy all the materials yourself and send them to the warehouse for me to destroy them because you are FAR too recognizable, what with you being Gotta Get Gucci himself. And I didn't tell you to tell your subordinates to do that for you because I get the feeling you DO NOT want to tell that many people about...your past misdeeds...even if they are under you. Besides, all of your subordinates are Ancient Devils as well. We can't have who knows how many violations of the contract, whether by you or your subordinates. And even if you tell no one anything, once they see the signage and displays, they would have NO CHOICE but to figure out what's going on, and would end up violating the contract no matter how much they try NOT to. And I bet if you don't want to tell your subordinates or let them figure out what's actually going on, you ABSOLUTELY don't want to tell anyone else or let them figure out what's actually going on.」

Hiraku-sama took a deep breath before resuming. Just how far did he think ahead if he has such a long explanation?!

「Oh, and before you say anything, we CANNOT just gather everything and leave it all at this warehouse. I actually need it, and there is not enough space in Shashaato City, Village Five, or any of the other villages to dedicate to just keeping your materials permanently out of public view. There is too much material this time around to just give to Versa, this one warehouse—which I still need, like I said before—would definitely not be enough, and there is no space anywhere to waste on a bunch of buildings solely dedicated to your materials. And we all know abandoned or isolated locations are not an option due to nosy people with too much time on their hands. So therefore, I decided to only involve the two of us—and the spiderling—and take you by surprise, so there would be zero chance of you violating your contract since you didn't know anything beforehand.」

Wait—so Hiraku-sama DIDN'T betray me? He was actively helping me the whole time?

「...But why are you doing this for me?」

I cannot even begin to fathom the reason!

「Alfred, my beloved son with Ru, is currently going through his own Chuuni phase. He may be doing things now that feel right, but will come to regret once he becomes an adult. When that time comes, I'll destroy all of his materials, just like I am doing with you now. We are close enough for me to do this for you. You should have the right to be forgotten, too. You don't deserve to live with this shame for who knows how long. No one does.」

「...Village Chief.」

Just trust him. Just trust him! JUST TRUST HIM!

Rurushi-sama was absolutely correct!

「At least let me pay for everything! That's the least I can do!」

「No. You paying for the materials yourself, paying me to pay for the materials, or paying me later to obtain the materials might all end up violating your contract. I won't risk that. You Ancient Devils value your contracts so much, after all.」

「I-Is this really okay, though?!」

「Frau and the other Civil Officer Girls have been pressuring me to spend more money. Apparently, the goods, services, and innovations I helped bring to the Demon Kingdom caused prices for everything to skyrocket. The Demon King was doing his best to keep everything stable with subsidies, but he's at his limit now. With me pouring so much gold back into the economy, everyone can now much more easily afford the much-higher prices. This balances out the inflation.」

「T-That's brilliant! You are truly brilliant, Village Chief!」

「...I'm not done yet.」

Hiraku-sama stopped me before I could give him more well-deserved praise. He delved into one of the boxes, pulling out...a risqué picture of me in the mischievousness of my youth. How much I would like to destroy it myself, but the contract! Trust in God to destroy it for me!

As if answering my prayers, Hiraku-sama placed it on the floor, respectfully averting his gaze before pretending to stumble and then striking it, turning it into fertilizer too. Hiraku-sama is so convincing, the contract just HAS to be fooled!

「Check your contract again. Just in case actually telling you would change anything. That's why I "accidentally" plowed something small this time around instead of a full box.」

「...No changes!」

「Because purposefully not stopping someone who is intentionally destroying culture is NOT the same as intentionally destroying culture yourself. And I am just a normal human, so it's impossible to apply that contract onto me, the one who is intentionally destroying this "culture", anyways. Of course, I'm making it look like an accident to ensure I don't violate your contract.」

「Genius! Pure genius!」

Only a god would so selflessly help someone, and only a god could find such loopholes even an Ancient Devil would never think of. Hiraku-sama did an excellent job of fooling the contract as he, a god and NOT an Ancient Devil, continued to destroy the remaining materials purchased from BeLieve while brilliantly pretending it was unintentional.

「Hehe. Haha! HAHAHAHA!」

Trust in God. Trust in God! TRUST IN GOD!

I should have never doubted you, dear god! I can never apologize enough for such a grievous error! I'll never doubt you ever again! I'll trust you completely!

「That one is of me dancing in nothing but a red bandana!」

Hiraku-sama suddenly froze at my confession.

「Gucci...you don't need to tell me anything. I'll destroy everything, no questions asked. Your secrets are safe with me.」

「That's precisely why I'm telling you! It feels so liberating to tell someone who won't tell anyone else!」

It feels so, so good to confess my sins! No wonder so many people go to confessionals!

The weight of my shameful past crumbled as I told Hiraku-sama about each thing he was going to destroy. What a brilliant, selfless, and compassionate god!

Even I couldn't help but agree how great a Devil King Hiraku-sama would be!

「You are truly lucky, Gucci-sama.」

It was several months ago. Bulga, Stifano, and I paid a second visit to Prada Museum. I wanted to make Despair-sama SQUIRM after what his daughter did in front of Hiraku-sama. How dare she try to rampage in front of Hiraku-sama!

I walked in with the most bitter offerings possible in hand. I wanted to offer them to the original statue itself, not just some miniature carving.

But what Prada said as I entered stopped me in my tracks.

「Excuse me?」

Just what was she going on about?

「Look at what Village Chief granted me. Meanwhile, you, my current Devil King, would have never done anything like this for me.」

Prada swept an arm across the gallery, the gallery that was stocked full of valuable artworks from all sorts of places and all sorts of eras. Wait, what does she mean by "current"?!

「You are truly lucky, Gucci-sama. Truly lucky that Village Chief does not want to be Devil King. I would have defeated you for him, if he wanted.」

Prada, that damned Prada!

「Excuse me? Is that a threat?」

「How dare you threaten Gucci-sama like that.」

Bulga and Stifano stepped forward, standing protectively in front of me. That right! How DARE you threaten your king!

「How dare you even insinuate you are even remotely strong enough to carry out such treasonous endeavors.」

I took several determined steps forward with Bulga and Stifano parting to let me pass. I am not a coward who hides behind his subordinates, after all. Bring it on, Prada!

「I don't know about that. Where there is a will, there is a way, after all. And there is most certainly a will here.」

But Prada remained completely unfazed.

「Like I said, you are truly lucky, Gucci-sama. Village Chief himself begged me not to overthrow you. Said I should be thankful you let me work here.」

Ignoring the blazing glares Bulga, Stifano, and I shot at her, Prada gestured to a certain three.

「Look how happy they are, all because of Village Chief.」

Kati hid herself within her collection of boxes stored in a corner, Rudio just stood there as he kept marveling at the music magic tools, and Sharune told any passing staff to write a report on some kind of paper. They were paying us no mind, trapped in their own little worlds. Even I could see nothing could break them out of such joy.

「Don't you think Village Chief would make a better Devil King than you?」

She finally turned her attention to Bulga and Stifano.

「Bulga. Stifano. You two actually live in Taiju Village. You get to see Village Chief every day for yourselves, and see how he rules his domain. Shouldn't you two be agreeing with me? Gucci-sama may be a good Devil King, but Village Chief would make a GREAT Devil King, and "great" is better than "good".」

Bulga and Stifano faltered at that. ACTUALLY FALTERED. Excuse me?! I thought you two were completely loyal to me!

「《Gold Coin》is right, you know. Who else could be Devil King but More Devil Than a Devil?」

And NOW Despair-sama decided to join the conversation. Despite being inanimate, I could feel his soul turn to stare at me.

「"More Devil Than a Devil"...what do you mean by that?」

I smiled, but it didn't reach my eyes. Is Despair-sama trying to blaspheme Hiraku-sama?! I bent down, placing the bitter offerings before Despair-sama's altar.

But Despair-sama didn't even flinch.

「That man referred to as "Village Chief". That god who masquerades as a human. He puts all devils to shame. He embodies the aspects of a devil better than we Ancient Devils can. Trapping me, Despair-sama, in a state of perpetual despair. Who else could inflict such irony and poetry but someone who is more devil than a devil?」

「Hiraku-sama never meant to make you suffer. He even helped your daughter Klim be born and even made her a miniature carving of your statue. Your soul can move between this statue and that carving, so you aren't trapped here forever. I WILL NOT tolerate you disrespecting Hiraku-sama.」

Despair-sama appeared quite amused.

「Oh? Defending the very man who threatens your throne? Just who is he to you?」

Just who is he to me? Everything. MY EVERYTHING.

Prada's laugh brought all attention to herself. The smile didn't leave her lips even as I glared at her worse than before.

「There IS one way for Village Chief to be Devil King without you having to be overthrown or being forced to surrender your title. For you both to be Devil King, at the same time.」

I narrowed my eyes further at that. Just what nonsense was Prada spouting this time?!

She stared me dead in the eye as she uttered her next words.

「Marry him.」

W-W-WHAT?!

My mouth flew open, my glare broken. Bulga and Stifano gasped, taking a shocked step back.

That smile morphed into a smirk.

「Everyone knows you are deeply and madly in love with Village Chief, everyone but Village Chief himself. It's perfect. He becomes Devil King, you remain Devil King, everyone wins.」

To my surprise, Bulga and Stifano...nodded?! They nodded, like it was the most sensible thing ever!

「Prada's right! It's absolutely perfect!」

「That is the smartest thing I ever heard anyone say.」

Even Despair-sama nodded!

「Snagging More Devil Than a Devil is the best thing you could ever do for all of devilkind,《Brave》.」

Among different races and different kingdoms, different rules for gaining, passing, and granting titles exist. For instance, in Demon King Gargard's Demon Kingdom, the sole sovereign—either the actual Demon King or the actual Demon Queen—is actually appointed. Because of that, the consort and their children together DO NOT have TRUE royal titles. In other words, people only call Anne Rocher the demon "Demon Queen" and Yuuri the demon "princess" as a sort of formality; they aren't a true queen or a true princess. This is not the case for other demonic kingdoms, though.

For all of devilkind, which consists of Ancient Devils and regular devils, there is only one set of rulers that reigns over all of them. Ancient Devils may be bound to subordination to the Divine Dragons, unlike regular devils, but we still outrank the regular devils. This ruling structure is similar to that of the dragons, with the Divine Dragons outranking all the other dragons with there only being one Emperor Dragon who rules over them all—with the Emperor Dragon having to be male. There can be multiple Dragon Kings and even Dragon Queens, but they are all subordinate to the Emperor Dragon.

However, unlike with the dragons, there are no lesser sovereigns for all of devilkind with Devil King and Devil Queen being the highest positions. That's why we Ancient Devils fought so fiercely over the title of Devil King or Devil Queen with me becoming the sole sovereign, the Devil King. There is another MASSIVE difference between the ruling structures of the dragons and the devils. If the Devil King or Devil Queen marries, or is already married by the time of ascending to the throne, the spouse automatically becomes the other sovereign. Not a king consort or a queen consort, but actually another Devil King or Devil Queen!

That's why Prada's suggestion made so much sense. If I marry Hiraku-sama, he becomes Devil King while I also remain Devil King. It would be perfect—except everyone was forgetting the most important part!

「B-But Hiraku-sama doesn't like men! C-Can't you see how in his harem of hundreds, there is not a single man?!」

I'm sure I lost all my dignity as Devil King at that moment, but I couldn't care less.

「Humph. Don't be so sure about that.」

Prada stepped forward with a confident stride.

「Let's make a bet. Give it a year. If you can't marry Village Chief and make him your fellow Devil King, I'll let you execute me in the most brutal fashion imaginable, like you wanted to do after I attacked Village Chief that time. If you DO marry Village Chief and make him your fellow Devil King, you instead owe me ten reward medals.」

「Oh? Are you saying you're prepared to die?」

Eyes closed. Wide smile. Innocent head tilt to the side. How I have been looking forward to this, looking forward to dealing just punishment for daring to target Hiraku-sama...

「No, I'm saying I'm prepared to receive ten reward medals. There's no way I can lose this bet.」

Everyone nodded in agreement. Bulga and Stifano, who were supposed to be the two most loyal to me. Despair-sama, the ancestor of us Ancient Devils.

Seems like they were prepared to make Hiraku-sama Devil King, no matter which method they would have to resort to.

Seeing how commanding Hiraku-sama can be, how he can twist transactions to fit his favor, how he can enact plans no one else could think of, how he can find loopholes in any contract no matter how tight it first appears. Even I, the Devil King, can see how perfect and great a Devil King Hiraku-sama would be.

But who cares about that now?! Hiraku-sama embodied the aspects of a devil to erase my shameful past, all with no benefit to himself! I couldn't help but laugh, laugh, laugh!

Each strike of Holy Lance Gryme served to shatter the chains binding me to my past misdeeds. Each confession lifted the weight crushing my soul.

A brilliant, selfless, and compassionate god who looks favorably even upon demons and devils! "More Devil Than a Devil" is right! A god who perfectly embodies all aspects of a devil!

A god who perfectly embodies all aspects of a devil to free this devil from his shame!

HAHA! HAHAHA! HAHAHAHA!

I HAVE NEVER FELT SO FREE!

-0-

「Ah, I feel so light now.」

Hiraku-sama performed a grand miracle by destroying all of the materials from BeLieve, all while making it look like a series of unfortunate accidents. Hiraku-sama kept performing that grand miracle again and again with each bookstore we visited.

Hiraku-sama displayed kindness again and again to those undeserving fools, to those who kept mocking them, to those only swayed by the sight of gold. I wish he would let me kill at least one of the blasphemers, but NO...Hiraku-sama just HAS to be too kind for his own good! Or maybe Hiraku-sama is showing me that the best revenge is served cold as he kept Stun Bashing the blasphemers and kept having me alter their memories. Haha! A kind god with the tendencies of a devil! The perfect combination!

And as we went from bookstore to bookstore, I realized another one of Hiraku-sama's miracles. There was not even a fraction of this number of bookstores just a few years ago. I could feel just how many tracking targets there were, but seeing how many buildings there were in person was a completely different matter. Hiraku-sama had increased the literacy rate, invented a "printing press", and increased paper production. Thanks to my dear god, more people can read now. That'll drastically improve their lives.

I am truly glad I absorbed all the magical power from all hundred of Guronde-sama's scales I purchased from Hiraku-sama. Casting the Immortal's teleportation magic over and over again, and casting all those other spells over and over again, would have made the old me collapse. But the new me can handle all of it with me still standing. I am truly glad I can serve my dear god, even if his reason for having me use all that magic wasn't solely for my own benefit and my benefit alone. What a kind, selfless god, working so hard to help someone who had doubted him. I will never doubt my dear god ever again.

Thanks to Hiraku-sama's genius planning and tireless work ethic, we were able to finally finish clearing out Shashaato City. I'm so glad I could make my dear god's plans possible thanks to me learning the Immortal's teleportation magic, as perilous it had been. My magic is the only thing that makes me useful to my dear god.

Thanks to the tracking spell, I could tell we had thirty minutes until the shipment would arrive at Village Five. Hiraku-sama told me we needed to take a short rest at the warehouse. I'll trust in my dear god without fail and do as he says. No need to rush with Hiraku-sama's brilliant planning and insight. He always knows the right time for everything.

「Here.」

「F-For me?」

「Yeah. You must be hungry. And tired.」

Hiraku-sama produced two large boxes before opening them, and offered one to me.

「Sorry for such a meager lunch. What the oni maids made for breakfast was not easy to pack, and I had to hurry after bringing Doraim to the Nerima Daikon wine barrel. All I could pack in such short time was some onigiri I made last night.」

「Y-You made this y-yourself?」

「Yeah. It's not as good as the oni maids' food, but I made these onigiri with care and with high-quality ingredients. I like cooking too. I'm also the one who taught the oni maids how to cook in the first place.」

「T-Thank you.」

I reached to take the offered box, only to suddenly stop and turn away. I couldn't stop my face from flushing hotly with what I was about to say.

「Y-You're right, Village Chief. I am really tired. Too tired to feed myself. I'm sorry to trouble you further, but is it alright if you f-feed me?」

I can't let this chance go to waste, dignity be damned! The chance to be fed by my beloved, him holding food out for me to eat, such intimate feeding...an Ancient Devil can dream, can't he?!

「Are you alright?」

W-W-What?! W-Why did Hiraku-sama suddenly press his hand to my forehead?! His warm, gentle hand against my forehead. What I would give to have that warm, gentle hand move down to cup my cheek and caress it lovingly—n-no! Why can't I stop myself from getting more red?!

「Sorry. I don't get sick and can't use magic, so I didn't know overusing magic could make you sick.」

「N-No, I'm not sick! I-I'm just tired! And hungry!」

「...If you say so.」

That warm, gentle hand finally left my forehead. Thank goodness it had! I was only seconds away from melting into his gentle touch and pressing my cheek into his hand!

「Itadakimasu.」

The white grains of the gods, shaped into large balls. The wraps made from kombu, once thought to be undesirable weeds of the sea only for this god to enlighten us on its true delectableness. I couldn't stop myself from taking bite after bite after bite. The numerous diverse flavors exploded on my tongue. Slow-roasted Gate Boar belly, battered and fried Bloody Viper, boiled Bloody Viper egg, grilled Killer Rabbit, stir-fried miso shrimp, creamy shredded crab with mayo and Gnostic Honey...how could Hiraku-sama ever talk down his own cooking?! Almost all of these cooking methods, combinations, and seasonings simply did not exist before this god descended to this world. I would choose his cooking over the oni maids' any day—no offense to the oni maids. I just can't stop eating!

Until my last one was gone. Aww...

「S-Sorry! I was so hungry, and the onigiri was so good, and lunch is still so novel to me—」

「—Here.」

W-What?! Why did Hiraku-sama offer one of his own onigiri to me?! I saw him only take one bite out of one of them while I devoured all of my own like some depraved beast! But it's too tempting...

「A-Are you sure?!」

「We still have a lot to do. Patisserie Fairy Fairy is a huge store, and the second floor is bustling with BL lovers. You'll have to use a lot of magic for this one, so eat up. Since we have time this time around, I'll tell you what we're going to be doing in advance. Here's the plan.」

Well, if Hiraku-sama puts it that way. I must be at full power to properly serve my dear god. I couldn't help but nod and make noises of affirmation as I ate and listened. What insight, what genius! Hiraku-sama is so adaptable, completely changing his approach for Patisserie Fairy Fairy. It would be impossible to use Stun Bashing at Patisserie Fairy Fairy since one Demon Spiderling is not nearly enough to Stun Bash all the hundreds—if not thousands—of people at the event, and it'll be too difficult to conceal the existences of the hundreds of Demon Spiderlings needed to actually enact such an endeavor. Too much fainting and screaming for proper memory altering as well. Too messy, too. So Hiraku-sama came up with a new plan. This new plan requires a lot of work on both our parts, but it will be sure to succeed. None of the people there would be able to resist the temptation, after all. Truly More Devil Than a Devil, truly would make the perfect and greatest Devil King. Even I knew what had to be done for the betterment of devilkind. If I have to surrender my position of Devil King to Hiraku-sama...then so be it.

I couldn't be sad, though. I couldn't be sad when Hiraku-sama kept feeding me the irresistible onigiri one after another! It was so, so good! Nothing could be better—what? What?! WHAT?! Is that the onigiri Hiraku-sama himself took a bite out of?! And he's holding it right to my face?!

A-An in-indirect k-kiss?! I can have an indirect kiss with Hiraku-sama?! Dear god, even I, an Ancient Devil and the current Devil King, cannot resist such a temptation! It's a miracle I didn't burn straight through the Great Sage's cloak!

I utterly annihilated that onigiri before I even knew it. Indirect kiss. Indirect kiss! INDIRECT KISS!

Hiraku-sama really is a god who is more devil than a devil!

-0-

「Here we are.」

Patisserie Fairy Fairy. I could just feel the concentrated pull of both the magical signature of my materials and the tracking spell I had cast. It's a relief it's all in one place, though. Makes it much easier to obtain everything. Better than the constant chase in Shashaato City.

「Stay close to me. Since Patisserie Fairy Fairy is so crowded, it's very easy for people to bump into each other.」

S-Stay close?! Close, as in standing side-by-side?! Close, as in being practically squished together on those moving stairs?!

I could feel every contour of Hiraku-sama's strong, sturdy, and reliable back as we were pressed together. I've had to carry Doraim-sama on my back numerous times after he passed out drunk, or after he got too rowdy and had to be tied up. What I would give for Hiraku-sama to carry me on his back if I can't walk, or even bridal-style—he's looking at me! He turned around to look at me! I can't meet him in the eyes, not when I'm thinking of something so preposterous!

Luckily, Hiraku-sama turned back around after the moving stairs brought us to the second floor. So many boxes. So many covered displays. Sign boards. Squealing women, all squealing as they eagerly awaited the uncovering of my material, my old shame!

「We have almost everything! It's almost time for what you have been waiting for, the greatest collection of Gotta Get Gucci ever put in one place! Just wait a few more minutes.」

My ears! MY EARS!

Stop screaming so loudly! STOP, YOU SCREECHING BANSHEES!

「Versa? Hermes?」

I barely heard Hiraku-sama utter those two names before he snatched my wrist, pulling me with him. I instantly froze. I couldn't even hear those deafening shrieks anymore. Hiraku-sama, being so forceful as he's dragging me away somewhere—he's in my face! His hot breath is in my ear!

I could barely register his whispering amidst my swirling thoughts.

「This operation is bigger than I thought. Looks like we need some help.」

「H-Help?!」

Hiraku-sama remained silent as he continued to forcibly drag me with him to two very familiar women. H-How did Hiraku-sama spot those two?!

「Versa. Hermes.」

「Oh my. What is Village Chief doing at an event such as this?」

「I never thought Village Chief would show an interest in our passion.」

Rurushi-sama truly deserves her title of "Great Sage". Even Versa-sama, an Ancient Devil who is older than me and is the Immortal's wife, couldn't detect me! But to make Hiraku-sama able to converse with those two properly, do I need to—that magic tool! That magic tool that allows people to have conversations even in noisy places! Hiraku-sama never fails to amaze me with his brilliant insight! He made sure it was visible for all to see, so Versa-sama and Hermes won't be suspicious that they can converse properly with Hiraku-sama. My dear god desperately wants to make people think he can't use magic, after all, to the point of even fooling the Great Sage herself into thinking he has no magical potential!

「Why are you two here? Didn't Gucci specifically put a condition that you couldn't distribute any of his materials to others when he gave you his remaining copies, Versa? And Hermes, doesn't that make you ineligible to see a lot of Gucci's materials, since they are the same as the ones Versa received?」

「Wow...Village Chief is so well-versed in Ancient Devil law. Fufu. You know, though...paying to share is not the same as distributing.」

「Besides, while Versa may be forbidden from distributing any of Gucci's materials just for receiving some of them, I can still see the ones she did not receive.」

「Ugh...」

Of course Versa-sama would know a way around my conditions, and of course Hermes can see the materials not specifically linked to my conditions! What do we do—

「If you do as I say, I'll let you two and only you two bring in and export BL from both Taiju Village and Village Five. As long as you make sure no one reads or discusses it out in the open.」

「...No way!」

「Is this a dream?!」

My breath hitched at those words.

「You REALLY don't have to do that! I know how much you dislike BL! And to have it come into and from Taiju Village and Village Five, no less! What happened to the original plan?!」

I watched as Hiraku-sama momentarily muted the device in a subtle way and turned to face me while turning his head as little as possible. Hiraku-sama is mindful of my still invisible and undetectable state.

「We'll still implement it, but add in another plan that includes Versa and Hermes. The less time I have to spend growing cocoa and sugarcane, the better. Cocoa trees are actually really hard to grow, and sugarcane is demanding. Honestly, as long as BL is out of my sight, it's out of my mind. Just listen in on what I'm going to tell Versa and Hermes. You need to be involved in the revised plan, too.」

I did as I was told and leaned in. What an elaborate plan, but a costly one too. Costly to Hiraku-sama's sanity, since he dislikes BL so much. I am endlessly reminded of my dear god's kindness and selflessness as he's essentially sacrificing himself for my misdeeds!

Just as Hiraku-sama finished relaying the revised plan, the lady who purchased that extensive amount of my shameful past spoke again, amplifying her voice.

「All the materials have finally been set up! Without further ado, I'll unveil my collection of Gotta Get Gucci—」

「Wait just a second!」

「We've got something better!」

Everyone gasped as Versa-sama and Hermes got up, people parting to let them through as they crossed over to the stage.

「No way!」

「Isn't that the Legendary BL Goddess, Versa-sama?!」

The crowd parted as though a holy figure was parting a sea. Humph. Crowds should be doing that for Hiraku-sama whenever he passes by, instead of him having to dodge people like an unknown person. Only Versa-sama's voice dragged me out of such indignant thoughts.

「I received a special exception from Youko-sama to purchase this BL material, as long as no one else can see it afterwards.」

Versa-sama produced the hyperspace bag Hiraku-sama had been carrying, using telekinesis to show an obscene amount of gold without it ever having to touch the ground. Hiraku-sama is more devil than a devil, alright. That's not even a fraction of the gold he possesses. Puts dragon hoards to shame. But instead of just hoarding it all to himself, Hiraku-sama simply holds onto it all, waiting to spend it in a way that greatly benefits others. Like now, when he's spending all that gold for me.

「And if I am allowed to make this purchase, everyone here is allowed one of two things. You can either receive a coupon that never expires for a free box of chocolates, or I can write a single BL story you want with fictional characters. Just step right up. Hermes here will take your requests.」

「A box of chocolates?!」

「A single BL story with whatever I want?!」

Truly more devil than a devil. So many temptations that none of those people could ever resist. Chocolate is both incredibly rare and incredibly irresistible. Nobles are constantly breaking out into fights over a single box of chocolates. Meanwhile, I know how much BL lovers prefer personal requests over good put impersonal material, especially personal material written by Versa-sama the BL Goddess herself.

The lady herself happily departed with her collection. The temptations were just too great!

「This is far more than what my life savings and those huge loans ever amounted to, and I can have a personal BL story written by Legendary BL Goddess, Versa-sama herself! EEEEEEEE!!」

Versa-sama transported all remaining traces of my shameful past using her husband's, the Immortal's, teleportation magic to the place Hiraku-sama told her about...that warehouse from before. Everyone cheered as she did so, too tempted by the promises of the extremely hard-to-obtain chocolates and the BL writing requests to Versa-sama to care about anything lesser. To beat a temptation, replace it with an even greater temptation...Hiraku-sama truly knows how to think more like a devil than an actual devil does. How would anyone not be able to think that, what with how Hermes was being swarmed?

Hiraku-sama's revised plan worked just as he intended. The original plan was to just offer everyone a coupon that never expires for a free box of chocolates, but there were simply too many people. Hiraku-sama used his endless adaptability to have Versa-sama slash the amount of people who requested the chocolate coupon in half. Makes everything more manageable, and since Versa-sama delights in writing BL, this is no trouble to her. Truly the best of both worlds. Meawhile, Hermes was put to good use with distributing the coupons and taking the requests for Versa-sama to write.

Since Versa-sama purchased those materials in Hiraku-sama's place and immediately sent them away to where he wanted them to go, there was no risk of violating her conditions to me. Just in case, Hiraku-sama had me tweak the conditions just a little to make this transaction even easier, all in a way subtle enough to not arouse suspicion. And since Hiraku-sama never informed Versa-sama of what he actually planned on doing with those materials, it will be impossible for her to violate the contract between the Divine Dragons and us Ancient Devils. How can you be intentionally part of destroying something if you never knew? Hiraku-sama shows his genius yet again. And so what if Versa-sama figures out that Hiraku-sama wants to destroy those materials? Hiraku-sama has the right to destroy his property, especially since he is a god and not an Ancient Devil!

And Versa-sama never has to connect this to my dear god so selflessly helping me. After all, Hiraku-sama would want to limit the spread of BL, anyways. It just so happened to be my material this time around. And Hiraku-sama, with his infinite insight and wisdom, can keep Versa-sama and Hermes accountable for not doing something that displeases him. Much better two than countless many.

Hiraku-sama had Versa-sama mention the Nine-Tailed Fox Youko's name to give Versa-sama more credibility. Absolute genius. I saw Hiraku-sama give Versa-sama a note addressed to her to keep her informed of this decision. Truly insightful.

Versa-sama will be holding onto the bag for now. Best to keep it in her possession while she is still in Patisserie Fairy Fairy. Hiraku-sama will have Versa-sama bring back that bag tomorrow, after she returns to the village. With that, all loose ends had been tied up.

「Come on. Let's go.」

After we left Patisserie Fairy Fairy, Hiraku-sama had me teleport us to the warehouse one final time. To finally destroy the last of my shameful past.

-0-

「What a long, long day.」

It was almost dinner time by the time Hiraku-sama and I finally finished our endeavors at Shashaato City and Village Five. Today was truly eventful, a whiplash in the truest sense. From an unimaginable sense of betrayal to absolute trust that can never be broken. From being crushed by a ceaseless sense of impending doom to utter liberation as my shameful past was erased box by box, store by store, load by load. I have never laughed more in my life!

I am truly glad Hiraku-sama let me participate in his visionary plan. I served him by casting all that magic and turning all those coupons and BL writing requests into covert contracts that make people's memory fuzzy when trying to relay the incident to people who were not there. Truly something an Ancient Devil would never think of, only a god who is more devil than a devil, who puts all us devils to shame. That god who only showed that side of him for my benefit, to free me from the shackles of mistakes made centuries ago while showing me his generous side time and time again. Like when he decided to reward me with a trip to the hot springs after our long day.

Thanks to the Teleportation Gate at the hot springs, I won't have to teleport us back to Taiju Village. At long last, we can rest. The hot springs were conspicuously empty. The Ghost Knights and the Ghost Sorceress must have sensed Hiraku-sama's desire for rest and decided to leave him alone. Such beings only listen to the God of Magic, and no one else. Meanwhile, the Lion Family must have read the atmosphere and did the same. The Demon Spiderling, too. I knew it. Hiraku-sama must also be the God of Magic, in addition to being the God of Humbleness. Only the God of Magic could escape the Great Sage's detection, after all.

But anyways...

「I can't thank you enough, Village Chief! You literally saved my life again!」

Hiraku-sama and I entered the hot springs together. The weight of today slid off my shoulders the moment I took off that stuffy cloak. Dipping in such divine waters after such a hard today, I can think of nothing better.

「Like I said, I would destroy any regrettable materials Alfred makes if he wants me to, once his own Chuuni phase ends.」

Hiraku-sama is truly kind and selfless. Alfred-sama may be family, but I am not. I wish I could do something to be even remotely worthy of such efforts.

「You know, thanks to you and your...copious amount of materials...I managed to acquire a huge amount of high-quality fertilizer. This will be a huge help with growing more crops this year.」

I'm glad Hiraku-sama got something out of today's endeavors. He deserves that much and more for always being so kind and selfless. I need to think of how I could possibly repay him—

「What's your favorite crop? And what's your favorite dish? Excluding anything with wyvern or Panic Caribou though, since they are both really hard to get.」

「W-Why are you asking me this?!」

I need to repay him, not have him treat me with even more undeserved kindness! I only troubled my dear god today, why is he being so kind to someone so unworthy?!

「Like I said, the huge amount of high-quality fertilizer I managed to acquire from your...copious amount of materials...will be a huge help with growing more crops. You deserve something for this. So I was thinking of growing one field of crops dedicated to you, and having the oni maids prepare your favorite dish—excluding anything with wyvern or Panic Caribou, of course—for dinner each time you visit for one year.」

Having an entire field of crops dedicated to me? Having my favorite dish prepared for me for one whole year? No one ever offered me anything like this, not even once! But why?!

「B-But you were just helping me erase the proof of my past misdeeds, the proof which would have flooded the Demon Kingdom by now if you hadn't selflessly helped me! Why are you rewarding me?!」

Hiraku-sama helped me so selflessly without asking for anything in return! Even Hiraku-sama obtaining the fertilizer was part of him helping me, what with him keeping the warehouse empty enough for continual receipt of more of my materials, my shameful past, all for him to destroy and repeat again and again countless times today. I'm the only one who truly gained something—

「It's not every day I can obtain enough high-quality fertilizer to nourish all the fields I'll be tilling for a whole year. And thanks to this huge amount of high-quality fertilizer, crop yield will increase MASSIVELY this year. We'll have more food for everyday life, for celebrations, and to sell. And because I injected so much gold back into the Demon Kingdom's economy when I bought all your materials, more people can afford my crops. One of the things that makes me most happy is to see people enjoy the food I grow. I also want no one to ever go hungry.」

「...Never in a million years did I think my shameful past could help so many people.」

「Nor did I, but I guess the end really did justify the means in this case, no matter how painful the means were. So anyways...what is your favorite crop? And what is your favorite dish that doesn't include wyvern or Panic Caribou?」

「...Apples and onigiri.」

I remember it like it was yesterday, when Hiraku-sama peeled and sliced what I thought was an appo and offered it to Doraim-sama and me. I had to try it first as Doraim-sama's servant to test for poison. I vividly remember how afraid I was when I took that first bite...and tasted the sweetest, crispiest, and juiciest fruit I had ever eaten in my entire immortal life, all without a hint of poison. I couldn't stop myself from devouring the rest of the slices. Doraim-sama even directed a heated glare at me for doing so. Luckily, Hiraku-sama was kind enough to peel and slice a second one for Doraim-sama. That was my first memory of apples, the fruit infinitely better than appos and the first gift Hiraku-sama ever gave Doraim-sama and me. A full, huge bag of apples that made our gift look like complete and utter trash.

And onigiri, how good it was! The rice, the kombu, the fillings, everything! I'll never forget how good it all was, how Hiraku-sama made it all himself, how he fed me by hand, how he fed me his onigiri after I disgracefully devoured my share, how he fed me the one he ate from, that indirect kiss...onigiri is my favorite food now!

「Even with the AFT and high-quality fertilizer, it'll take two years for the apple trees to bear fruit. Is that okay?」

「O-Of course I'm okay with waiting! This is more than I could ever ask for!」

I don't deserve this much. This is too much for someone like me.

Only a god could be so generous!

「Well, unlike one-time harvest crops, apple trees will continue to bear fruit for years and years to come. Those apple trees will be dedicated solely to you, and only you and anyone you want can eat those apples. For as long as those trees live.」

「V-Village Chief...」

For as long as those trees live...for potentially centuries! Hiraku-sama and I can eat apples fresh from the tree for years and years to come, just the two of us. Eat the best ones fresh from the tree, store the others for later, vinegar, mayo, cider, alcohol...the possibilities are endless. I can't help but be touched.

「And as for the onigiri, it'll be quite easy for the oni maids to prepare them for you—」

「—I-If it's okay with you, could you make them for me? I-I only want you to make them for me! I mean, if it's not too much to ask and won't be too much trouble...」

O-Oh crap! I was being too selfish! No wonder Hiraku-sama went silent!

「I-I'm sorry, I crossed the line—」

「—Of course I can make onigiri for you. Just let me know when you get to the village, and wait for me to have the time to make them for you.」

「W-Why are you doing so much for me?!」

I'm the one who's supposed to serve others, not have others serve me! Even as Devil King, I don't get served this lavishly. At the height of our power, I had to keep growing the Ancient Devils' influence and therefore had no time to relax. After our defeat, we had to dedicate ourselves to serving the Divine Dragons. My fellow Ancient Devils have to spend more time tending to the Divine Dragons than tending to me. Besides, as Devil King, I live to help my fellow Ancient Devils survive, and we only survived for the centuries we served the Divine Dragons.

「Just because you are a servant, that doesn't mean you don't deserve to be spoiled. We've known each other for years now. I'd like to think you and I are close enough for me to do this much for you.」

So I DIDN'T mishear it that time! Hiraku-sama ACTUALLY considers us to be close! I'm so, so happy to hear such words! I couldn't stop myself from smiling. We're close. We're close! WE'RE CLOSE!

「I'm really grateful you consider me as such. But...」

Since we're close, Hiraku-sama has a much higher opinion of me than someone who's an actual mere acquaintance of his. And all the things I said to him...

「...Do you see me any differently now?」

All my wild behaviors, all the men I had been with, what we did. There's no way he can see me the same as before.

「...You're asking the guy with over forty wives and hundreds of lovers. And counting.」

But we are NOT the same. Those were numerous nameless men who were nothing more than my fellow actors. Meanwhile, you love and dote on everyone in your harem. I wish I was in it!

「Everyone knows you are no womanizer, Village Chief! You treat your wives and lovers like queens! They're always so happy, and I'm frankly quite jealous of them!」

I feel so bad for still being so jealous, even after all the support they gave me. But even with all that support, there's no way I, a man, can ever win Hiraku-sama over—

「Are you sure you're not sick? Don't worry about me. I can't get sick, even if I wanted to.」

「N-No, I'm fine! I r-really am!」

「Okay, if you say so...」

Hiraku-sama's warm, gentle hand was back on my forehead! W-W-Why?! But Hiraku-sama's warm, gentle hand would only ever go on my forehead. I'll never get to enjoy the same loving caresses Hiraku-sama's wives and lovers get to enjoy...

「...Your wives and lovers are so lucky to have such a doting man. I'm so jealous.」

I slightly submerged my head underwater and began blowing bubbles. I'm so ashamed of my ungratefulness.

「Doesn't your husband dote on you?」

「W-What?! Husband?! I don't have—and never had—a husband! What made you think I have a husband?!」

There's only one man I ever want to be my husband, and I'll never get to be his husband! Just where did Hiraku-sama get this idea from?!

「Not everyone talks about their spouses. I mean, Beezel, Randan, and the Demon King never really talked about their wives that often until their wives actually visited the village. I figured you just didn't talk about your husband that much.」

「Like I said, I don't have—and never had—a husband! But how do you even know I'm gay?!」

I didn't tell Hiraku-sama I'm gay, did I?!

「Gucci...it would take an actual newborn baby to not tell you are gay after what you told me that night and today...」

Implication. Of course. Context clues. VERY obvious ones.

「O-Oh...」

How could I be so stupid?! I'm going to die of embarrassment, why aren't I dying already?! Curse me and my immortality!

「You know, you can talk to me about finding a husband. I might know someone who is perfect for you.」

Why is Hiraku-sama okay with me being gay?! Isn't he supposed to be disgusted?!

「B-But you dislike BL!」

「Gucci...disliking BL is NOT the same as homophobia. I am NOT homophobic! I accept all sexualities! Love is love, after all!」

「T-Then why do you dislike BL?!」

「Gucci...imagine if we are just walking down a random street when I snatch your wrist, drag you into an abandoned alleyway, slam you against the wall, tie you up, and screw your brains out. Would you like to read something like that?」

SNSDBGJSDNVSADBGOSNVBSGNNFOSDGBPDSPGN!!!!!

Read it?! More like EXPERIENCE IT! YES! YES!! YES!!!

I'll get the rope after blood returns to my head! Tie me up and slam me into the nearest hard surface! Have your way with me like I'm nothing but a sexual object! I'll get myself ready, so take your second spear and shove it up my—

「...And that's why you don't get relationship advice from explicit material. I know not all BL is explicit, but by far the most popular and most numerous kind in the Demon Kingdom and the neighboring kingdoms is the explicit kind. And that BL reduces us men into being sexual objects one uses to gratify themselves. If Ru and I walk down the street, I want us to be treated as normal people, not as a source of sordid fantasies. And unfortunately, the amount of problematic BL FAR outnumbers the amount of non-problematic BL. That's why I dislike BL. The majority of it is too objectifying.」

「...I see.」

Aww...

「Gucci..."uke" translates to "receiver", not "supporting"...」

「W-What do you mean by that?!」

「What you said your roles were...you were definitely the "uke".」

「A-And what's the counterpart supposed to be?!」

「..."Seme", which means "attacker".」

「...」

"Attacker", as in how Hiraku-sama attacked that wyvern brat no one could control and killed him in just two hits?! Not even Doosu-sama, Raimeiren-sama, Giral-sama, or even Guronde-sama back in her destructive prime could just shrug off such a fight! Hiraku-sama would make the perfect "seme"!

「But you know, regardless of whether you are an uke, a seme, or some combination of the two, I firmly believe any man would be lucky to have you as a husband. Handsome, strong, loyal. I'm amazed how you don't have as many husbands as I have wives. I look like...me...but you could easily be a top supermodel with men and women fighting over you. Meanwhile, you remember what those people said. Nondescript, plain, ordinary. It was only after I showed them my money did they change their minds.」

「T-That's not true! You are the most handsome man I know! What's more handsome than a kind man who takes in everyone, even if they are a demon or a devil, and works tirelessly to improve the world?! Life has become INFINITELY better ever since I met you. My dragon masters, my fellow Ancient Devils, your wives and lovers, your Inferno Wolves and Demon Spiders, the countless citizens of the Demon Kingdom, everyone who knows you—they all feel the same!」

「...It's nice to hear that from Mr. Top Supermodel.」

I mean it, I mean every word of it! Looks are only skin deep. Kindness pierces into the very soul and touches hearts!

「Like I said, you can talk to me about finding a husband. I might know someone who is perfect for you.」

「...」

There's only one man I ever want to be my husband, and I can't have him. He's even trying to get me to marry someone else. No one else can even begin to match Hiraku-sama in my eyes.

「It's okay to have standards. Personally, my standards for a husband are MUCH higher than my standards for a wife. He has to be handsome, he has to be about my height or slightly shorter, we have to be close or capable of becoming close, my wives and lovers have to approve of him, my children have to like him, he has to know how to be servile...things like that. He doesn't have to live here full time or even work for me, as long as he can come back here at least a few days per week.」

「—!」

W-W-WHAT?!

It was as though lightning had struck me. Why do those sound so familiar?!

Hiraku-sama just called me handsome, I'm slightly shorter than him, he said we're close, Rurushi-sama said she and his other wives and lovers approve of me, his children like me, and I have been the perfect servant for centuries. I don't live here, but Doraim-sama visits several days a week, now that he's no longer so afraid of Hakuren-sama and now that he has nephews, a niece, and grandchildren in Taiju Village. I can even visit the village by myself really easily thanks to the Immortal's teleportation magic!

「He has to be a good listener and give good massages. My nightly activities leave me quite sore, and sometimes I just want to talk to someone instead of engaging in nightly activities. He would have to be okay with sharing me, though, and not just tolerate it. And he has to be okay with me having so many children. He doesn't have to take a fatherly or an uncle role, but if he wants to take a fatherly role, he has to make sure that he doesn't overtake MY role.」

I can listen and give good massages. Sure, I don't believe Hiraku-sama when he says he is just a normal human, but I'll still listen to him. I'm okay with sharing Hiraku-sama, as long as I'm one of the ones he loves.

I'm definitely okay with Hiraku-sama having so many children. I like his children, and his children like me, as previously mentioned. The two children who like me most are Alfred-sama and Torain-sama. Alfred-sama calls me "Master Chuuni-sama" and tries to imitate me while Torain-sama always asks how he can become as perfect of a butler as me. Hmm, "Papa Gucci" DOES have a nice ring to it. I'll never take Hiraku-sama's place, though. No one can. Who could possibly take the place of a kind god who is the best father I have ever seen?

「I would do anything to help him and his race, as long as the intentions are peaceful or if it's only in self-defense. I'll mobilize who needs to be mobilized, and step in myself if needed. Of course, if I personally have to step in, I'll make sure all credit goes to the leader of his race. I REALLY don't like being in the spotlight, you know.」

...Sounds like someone who would make the perfect Devil King, the greatest Devil King! Hiraku-sama really needs to work on taking credit and deserved praise, though. Something I can do if I'm beside him.

Suddenly, Hiraku-sama began blushing.

「I...know how to do it back there...thanks to Ru and her lessons on anatomy that she...practices on me. I would...make sure to satisfy him...to the best of my abilities. Make him...forget about anyone else before me...no matter who or how many there were.」

「...」

Rurushi-sama truly is a goddess! All his wives and lovers always talk about how fantastic Hiraku-sama is in bed, and he even knows how to please men too! Just thinking about it made me flush hotter and hotter than ever before, as red as Hiraku-sama was flushing!

Hiraku-sama did his best to calm down as he cleared his throat.

「...A-Ahem. M-Most importantly of all, he has to get used to being loved and spoiled rotten by me. I-I'm not all take and no give. If he gives me joy, I-I want to give him that joy back thousandfold.」

Joy.

Joy. Joy.

Joy. Joy. Joy.

Joy. Joy. Joy. Joy.

Joy. Joy. Joy. Joy. Joy.

Giving joy, receiving joy.

...So many things Hiraku-sama mentioned. So many detailed things.

「...This all sounds too specific to just be hypothetical.」

Too specific. Too personal to Hiraku-sama himself.

「Yeah, they're my actual standards for a husband.」

「A-ACTUAL STANDARDS?!」

「Yeah.」

W-W-W-W-WHAT?! SO I WAS RIGHT?!

「Like I said, although I dislike BL, I'm not homophobic. In fact, I'm actually open to having one husband. It'll be different from all the wives and lovers I currently have, but different in a good way. But I'm not getting my hopes up. Such a perfect man must already be married with as many husbands as I have wives, and wouldn't even spare a glance at me.」

「!!!」

So I could have gotten my hopes up, after all?! So what I've been dreaming of for almost fifteen years, ever since I met Hiraku-sama...is actually possible?! I'm not currently dreaming, am I?!

Hiraku-sama suddenly let out a grunt of pain, snapping me back to reality.

「My back hurts. And I still have to engage in nightly activities tonight...」

Good massage. I need to give Hiraku-sama a good massage!

「—L-Let me help you!」

Gods are known for giving tests. What Hiraku-sama said...he was giving me a test! I'll take your test, my dear god!

I worked my hands into Hiraku-sama's back with a renewed vigor. That strong, sturdy, and reliable back needs someone who can relieve some of that burden. Share burden, relieve burden. Someone who can always be by Hiraku-sama's side. Someone like me.

「You give really good massages. I suddenly feel much less apprehensive. This will definitely make my nightly activities much easier. I could get used to this.」

Hiraku-sama leaned into my hands, visibly relaxing. So far, so good. I'll pass your test with flying colors!

「So, did I give you any ideas? Does anyone I know fit your standards? I'm listening.」

-0-

It was the very next day. A different day than the day before. A different day in multiple ways.

「What a lovely mirror!」

A golden mirror is cheap compared to what I have gained. I am eternally grateful to Rurushi-sama and Hiraku-sama's other wives and lovers.

「Easiest gamble ever.」

I have never been happier with losing, even to someone like Prada. I'm fortunate to have been given rewards medals since earning those ten—and that trophy—from winning that male Inferno Wolf Division during that Martial Arts Tournament all those years ago. Those ten...never. Another ten, happily given away for losing that bet.

「Gucci-sama. Village Chief.」

As I was walking beside Hiraku-sama during his usual morning walk, Prada stopped to bow to me before bowing to Hiraku-sama as well. My dear god is beginning to receive a modicum of respect he so deserves.

「Your Majesties!」

「My dear Devil Kings!」

「L-Long live...the k-kings!」

Kati, Rudio, and Sharune followed closely behind, doing as Prada did. Those three thorns in my side are finally under control for once, especially with Hiraku-sama by my side.

「Devil King. More Devil Than a Devil.」

I finally forgive you, Klim. You gave more respect to Hiraku-sama than me, after all. Hiraku-sama deserves far more than I ever will.

「《Brave》... you did good, snagging More Devil Than a Devil.」

Humph. I'll take that compliment from Despair-sama, especially since his soul—currently housed within the miniature carving Klim was holding—also bowed towards Hiraku-sama. Despair-sama, the ancestor of us Ancient Devils, paid the rightful respect towards this god who embodies the aspects of a devil more than us devils ever can.

「Good morning Gucci-sama, Hiraku-sama.」

I'm glad Bulga and Stifano are finally able to address Hiraku-sama with the reverence he deserves, instead of just calling him "Village Chief".

「Everyone was treating me like normal yesterday! All I did yesterday was go out with you and do you-know-what, Gucci!」

Hiraku-sama looked like he was about to rip his hair out. My dear god, who is not used being revered in person. How humble my dear god truly is...

「Fufu...do you regret it?」

With my shameful past finally erased, my heart was put at ease. I have to maintain my dignity as Devil King, especially with the newly-crowned one standing right beside me.

「...Why would I want to see and read about other men having their way with my husband?」

Hiraku-sama leaned in and made sure to whisper only loudly enough for me to hear, but he couldn't stop the crimson flush from overtaking his body. Who knew a god could be so cute?

Husband, a word I always wanted to hear from my dear Hiraku-sama. I'll always remember the night before, what happened in the hot springs that night...

「I-I'll do it!」

I want to become your husband, more than anything else!

「Gucci...you can't marry yourself. Although I could see why you would if you could.」

What a silly, silly god. That's not what I meant!

「I-I'll marry you!」

I want to marry Hiraku-sama, even if my position as Devil King wasn't being threatened. Even if I have to abdicate. I only want HIM. No one else, nothing else.

Hiraku-sama froze, as though he couldn't believe me.

「...What did you say?」

I'll say it again and again!

「I said I'll marry you! I want to become your one and only husband!」

I'll say it as many times as it takes!

「Gucci...you don't need to pity me. Someone as perfect as you should marry a man who's better than me—」

「—It has to be you! Only you!」

My hands left Hiraku-sama's back as I crushed him into a tight hug from behind.

「Village Chief Machio Hiraku-sama, I have been deeply and madly in love with you ever since we met. You met me, an Ancient Devil and a target of immense hatred, with open arms. You became one of Doraim-sama's closest friends and became close with his entire family. You married Lastismun-sama and Hakuren-sama, two dragons who had long been deemed "unmarriable", and blessed both with children. You brought Domaim-sama and Quon-sama and Sekiren-sama and Qolun-sama together, which everyone thought was impossible. You repaired Doosu-sama's and Giral-sama's shattered relationship and made them closer than ever. You healed Guronde-sama's severe injuries and recompleted Giral-sama's family. You did more for the Divine Dragons in a few years than I have done in centuries.」

I wrapped my arms more tightly around him. Don't go, don't leave!

「After my defeat to Doosu-sama, I allied myself and all the Ancient Devils to the Divine Dragons with a contract solidifying our subordination. For centuries afterwards, we served them as a means for survival. Even Ancient Devils like Beton, who do not directly serve a Divine Dragon, are bound by the contract and have to abide by it. For those centuries, we just survived. But only after meeting you did we actually begin to thrive.」

I rested my head on Hiraku-sama's shoulder, staring straight into his stunned eyes. I NEED to get my message across.

「You introduced food that astounded us and cooking methods that lifted our spirits. You took care of the Divine Dragons, which made them much happier and in turn made us Ancient Devils much happier as well. You directly helped me and the other Ancient Devils time and time again, not just today. You untied me that night even though I was the reason Hermes was free and caused everyone so much trouble. You made Prada the director of her own museum and let her employ Kati, Rudio, and Sharune, the three biggest thorns in my sides, and helped keep them under control for once. And you helped me today when no one else would, not even Doraim-sama, whom I had been serving since he was just a hatchling. If it wasn't for you, my past would be haunting me at every corner in Shashaato City, Village Five, and potentially even further. Can you see why I am deeply, madly in love with you?」

「...」

I'm not going to hide anymore! I'm going to step forward with courage!

「I honestly thought you would never return my feelings. In your harem of hundreds, there is not a single man, and I KNOW there are men who are interested in you. You can't deny that. It's just a fact. When I heard you dislike BL, I thought you would be disgusted if you ever found out that I, a man, am deeply and madly in love with you. Even after you untied me that night, I was afraid you would have changed your mind if I directed my feelings of love at you instead of leaving the impression that I only wanted to be with other men in the mischievousness of my youth. But I can't hold it back anymore. Even I, the Devil King, have my limits. What you said...about being open to having one husband...is my limit. I can't keep it in anymore.」

I could feel Hiraku-sama's breath hitch as I spread my bat-like wings and tightly embraced him with them too. Don't go back to heaven! Please stay!

「Please don't hate me. I'm trying my best to live up to my title《Brave》, but I feel like my heart's about to explode.」

My heart thundered against Hiraku-sama's back. It's going to burst, burst, BURST! Hiraku-sama, why aren't you saying anything?! Why aren't you moving?! I could feel hot tears stinging my eyes as I could no longer keep my voice steady.

Did my gambit fail?! Not all bravery pays off. I should have just kept it in. There's only one way to take this back.

「...I'm sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable. If you want, I can use the same memory-erasure magic the Immortal uses on myself. I can introduce myself to you again and have everyone fill me in on our history. I think that's the only way to erase my intense feelings towards you, not that it'll work for long. I can see myself falling deeply and madly in love with you again. Then I'll erase my memories again and again, as many times as it takes—!—!!—!!!」

W-W-W-W-WHAT?!

DFJGIOGODSFNGOFNGODFNGONSFNGOASN!!!!!!!!!

「—!!!!」

Hiraku-sama's k-k-k-kissing me?! One moment I was falling into despair and the next, Hiraku-sama spun around in my tight double embrace and crushed his lips to mine!

Electricity coursed through my veins. This is not a dream, this is better than what my imagination could ever come up with! Did my heart actually explode?! Am I dead and in heaven?! ME, an Ancient Devil, in heaven?!

I couldn't keep Hiraku-sama in my arms and bat-like wings any longer. They wouldn't listen to me, after all. Hiraku-sama took that opportunity to rest my head on his shoulder. He enveloped me in a warm, gentle embrace as he gently wiped away my tears and began whispering softly.

「...You remember what I said, about thinking such a perfect man wouldn't even spare a glance at me? I can't believe I missed the intense, fiery gaze he directed at me the whole time.」

W-What is Hiraku-sama saying?! He ACTUALLY thinks I'm perfect?! Me, an eccentric Ancient Devil, perfect in a god's eyes?!

「But are you sure you want to be my husband? I'm not as perfect as you seem to think I am. I get jealous. I don't want to share anyone...I love...and that would include you, too. I don't know all the customs of this place even after all these years. I can't learn any magic. I look completely out of place when standing besides you. After all that, you still want to marry me?」

「Hehe. Haha! HAHAHAHA!」

Hiraku-sama is too self-effacing for his own good, too hard on himself! Everyone gets jealous! Even his wives and lovers, who share him, get jealous of those they don't deem worthy!

And as to how Hiraku-sama still isn't fully accustomed to this place, even after all these years...who could blame him? I could imagine this dear god weeping when he saw the state of our world—out of infinite worlds—from the realm of the gods, and rushing down from the heavens to save us. No time to learn about our world, saving it comes first! How this dear god established a paradise in the center of the Forest of Death, worked tirelessly to build it up, invited people to his paradise, blessed worthy women with perfect children, spread peace, spread his paradise's influence to the neighboring lands and beyond. This dear god is too hard on himself, indeed.

But seriously, I cannot fathom why my dear god wants to hide his magical prowess. Don't worry, my dear god. This humble servant will use every last drop of his magic to serve you. You don't need to reveal yourself even more than you already have.

All in all, my dear god's "flaws" only serve to make him more endearing, more reachable. Who knew Gods could be so cute? I couldn't help but laugh, laugh, laugh! Laugh from the depths of my soul! How precious!

「Your humbleness goes too far, dear God of Humbleness-sama! Of course I want to marry you! I want to become your one and only husband, even with all the "flaws" you mentioned!」

Hiraku-sama truly embodies humbleness, is humbleness itself! I knew it. Of all the titles this god possesses, "God of Humbleness" truly is the most fitting one!

「I am NOT a god! I am just a normal human!」

Yeah, and I'm a male angel! Even your unconvincing denial is cute! I wrapped Hiraku-sama back into a tight double embrace just as he was about to release me.

「Sure, sure. You are just a "normal human", "normal human" Village Chief Machio Hiraku-sama.」

I couldn't help but tease this adorable god. Too cute for his own good.

「...Why does no one believe me?!」

Hiraku-sama is the furthest thing from a normal human there is! He's not fooling anyone!

「Maybe people would believe you if you were better at hiding it.」

I winked at him before laughing, laughing, and laughing even more.

You have no idea how many times we have gathered without you being there just to discuss which God you are. Torain-sama is working with the Mountain Elves to install countless statues of you all over the Demon Kingdom that pop up whenever you are not present. My dear god, unable to admit his status as a god in fear of contradicting his very nature. Calling yourself a god is VERY far from being humble, after all. Don't worry, my dear God of Humbleness-sama, I'll say out loud what you aren't able to—

Hiraku-sama suddenly harshly grabbed my shoulders, forcing me to meet his gaze as he looked me dead in the eye. Stare so intense, voice dropped lower than I ever heard it.

「You sure have a smart mouth, Gucci. Why don't you put your smart mouth to better use?」

JASNGJSDFGJBDSFNGJDFGBKJSFNGHKSGJ!!!

Hiraku-sama wants me to shut up and suck his—

His lively, stiff, throbbing—

And drink his hot, virile seed, capable of impregnating even vampires!

Cute to sexy in no time flat! No wonder Rurushi-sama considers Hiraku-sama to be the God of Sex!

How had I not boiled away all the water in the hot springs with how hotly I was burning?! My blood NEEDS to return to my head! I really did die and go to heaven! There's nothing better I could ever ask for!

I could barely register Hiraku-sama standing up and getting out of the water with a satisfied smirk on his face. Could barely register Hiraku-sama offering his hand to me.

「But first, we have to return for dinner. I have to announce our marriage to everyone.」

「...Y-Yes!」

Marriage. OUR marriage. The thing I have been wanting the most, ever since I met Hiraku-sama. THAT is the better thing I could ask for.

I finally regained control of my body as I beamed brightly. At this rate, I'll become Light Attribute and shed my Dark Attribute nature. My dear god was filling me up with so much light, after all.

We finally got dressed and walked towards the Teleportation Gate. Looks like Hiraku-sama had the Ghost Sorceress cast a sound-blocking barrier with her, the Ghost Knights, the Lion Family, and the Demon Spiderling all pointedly looking away. Of course they are able to read the God of Magic's intentions, one of the many sides to my dear God of Humbleness-sama.

Hiraku-sama waved as we passed them. They finally unfroze, waving back before returning to what they were doing before, the sound-blocking barrier dissipating. Hiraku-sama really appreciated them offering us privacy.

I smiled, and Hiraku-sama smiled, as we walked hand-in-hand into the Teleportation Gate and towards the banquet hall.

When Hiraku-sama officially announced our marriage at dinner after we entered the banquet hall, we were met with thunderous applause and wild cheers. His wives and lovers gave us thumbs-ups while his children cried with joy. Thank you, everyone, for helping this unworthy devil. Even Doraim-sama, who had initially been confused, joined in on the applause and congratulations.

Hiraku-sama would be holding an official ring ceremony the following night. He still had to make one, after all. I saw the rings his wives wore, the ones he made himself with care and attention to detail brimming from every infinite angle. And I would be receiving one too.

For my case, Hiraku-sama decided to make my ring out of a bit of one of Guronde-sama's scales. Hiraku-sama must be thinking of the time he once accidentally summoned me from a mirror made out of one of her scales. Guronde-sama's scales granted me the power needed to properly serve my god. To have a constant reminder of how I could serve my god, all in a beautiful ring made by Hiraku-sama himself...I couldn't help but be touched. Meanwhile, Guronde-sama was quite honored that Hiraku-sama thought of her. Another being saved by this dear god.

And our first night together, I could never forget it even if someone was to erase all my other memories. I'm so, so grateful Hiraku-sama's wives and lovers let us have our wedding night to ourselves. I got to face the monster in bed myself, by myself.

Malbit the angel was right, Hiraku-sama really does make anyone else look impotent. It's not fair to compare anyone else to a god, though. Who else but a god could have endless stamina, seed, and no need to rest? Hot. Sexy. Virile. The very definition of a man.

If anyone recorded what we were doing, it would be the hottest-selling BL of all time.

Having him in my mouth, so hot, hard, huge, and thick. My eagerly sucking and drinking the divine seed that just kept spilling out. I couldn't think of any smarter use for my mouth.

Endless kisses, some even with tongue. Lots of warm, loving caresses. Hand holding. Embraces. Just thinking about it all brings me back to cloud nine.

Him roughly entering me again and again, from different positions and hitting all the perfect spots. Made my past encounters look like forgettable, boring flings. Which they are. I started forgetting the faces of my fellow actors, forgetting everyone else but Hiraku-sama.

Bound me with rope. Slammed me against hard surfaces. Indulged in all my kinks, every last one of them. No wonder all his wives and lovers keep coming back for more!

Hiraku-sama granted so many wishes of mine. Did whatever I wanted. Let me call him "Majesty", "King", and "Hiraku-sama" after a lot of begging. How I wanted to call him those out loud to his face. This is the one reason I am glad I was forced into becoming Doraim-sama's servant. It gave me the perfect reason to call Hiraku-sama grander things than just "Master"!

Pleased me even more than I pleased him, not that I wasn't trying. He wouldn't, and couldn't, stop. Not that I ever wanted him to. I'll match you, my dear god. I'll do it all on my own.

Even through the wild and intense passion, Hiraku-sama showed his kind and gentle side yet again. He used World Tree leaves so we could go to his private bath...where we resumed our activities. Was able to get clean from the inside even as he spilled more and more of his divine seed into me. I wouldn't mind it leaking out of me, though. For days and days. I couldn't stop spilling seed all night, either. Centuries worth of pent-up seed, all liberated.

Hiraku-sama kept offering me more and more World Tree leaves. I honestly didn't mind the soreness, especially since it came as a result of our wild and passionate love. He kept insisting, though. Said he didn't want me hurt. Once again, I am reminded of my dear god's endless love and compassion. I accepted them all.

And after we were finally done with our bath, Hiraku-sama carried me on his strong, sturdy, and reliable back. Back to his room in his mansion. I didn't need to be carried, but asked him to. What a kind god, granting so many wishes. Hmm, how nice it is to be carried instead of the one carrying...

Hiraku-sama even granted another wish of mine and carried me bridal-style from the threshold to his bed. Luckily, I had used cleansing magic before we went to his private bath. We could finally rest. After Hiraku-sama gave me even more World Tree leaves. What a kind, loving, generous god. I fell asleep in my dear god's loving embrace, in his warm arms. Hmm...he smells so nice. What a perfect night.

To think I'll have more nights like this in the future, even if I must share him. I'm a man of my word, even without contracts and conditions. I'm looking forward to the nights when no one else but Sena the beastkin or I am interested in nightly activities. Happens more often than one would think. Of course, I'll spend the night with Hiraku-sama even if he just wants me to massage him and talk. Just being beside Hiraku-sama is bliss. I could think of nothing better than being beside my dear god.

I could get used to being spoiled rotten by such a great man.

Only the approach of two certain women brought me out of my reverie.

「My, my...you two are absolutely glowing.」

「I am looking forward to reading the best material.」

Versa-sama and Hermes. When Versa-sama handed Hiraku-sama back his bag, she gave us both a knowing smirk. Hermes was beside her, arms full of certain books. Not mine, though. Thanks to my dear god getting rid of the last of the ones Hermes would ever be allowed to touch. The ones I had previously given to Versa-sama were still off-limits, after all, protected by my conditions.

「No real-life characters, alright?! And you MUST keep your discussions behind VERY closed doors! Inspiration ONLY, okay?! And the names and appearances must be RADICALLY different. Don't you dare actually objectify Gucci and me!」

Versa-sama waved Hiraku-sama off, laughing while Hermes let out a small chuckle. Even I wanted to join in. My dear god is being cute again.

「Yes, yes...Devil King.」

「Your wish is my command, Devil King.」

My dear god is finally getting the respect he deserves, out in the open. I need to make sure more people give my dear god his much-deserved respect.

「Gucci, stop them! YOU'RE the Devil King, not me!」

So cute. Not realizing what he had done.

「Well, you DID marry this Devil King. And unlike the Demon King position, which is appointed, the Devil King position can actually be passed through marriage. And since we are both men...」

「...Ugh.」

The Ancient Devils, even Versa-sama and Hermes, bowed once more to us before finally going their separate ways.

「Fufu. Worry not. I will not force you into our matters unless absolutely necessary.」

I don't want to trouble my fellow Devil King if not needed. And even if I don't ask, Hiraku-sama WILL help all us devils, anyways.

「I'll keep my promise and I will do anything to help you and your fellow devils, both Ancient Devils and regular devils, as long as the intentions are peaceful or if it's only in self-defense. I'll mobilize who needs to be mobilized, and step in myself if needed. Of course, if I personally have to step in, I'll make sure all credit goes to you, leader of all devilkind.」

Like I thought. Truly too kind, truly too generous.

「I'm...also...the Devil King—but by marriage and marriage ONLY and NOT because I am actually an Ancient Devil or anything other than a normal human!」

This is the first time Hiraku-sama ever accepted a title other than "Village Chief". Take that, Demon King Gargard and Doosu-sama! I don't need to give him secret titles like "Great Demon King" and "True Emperor Dragon"!

「As a NORMAL HUMAN...ahem...I can help you with anything that you cannot do because of your contract.」

「Haha! You're STILL going with the whole "normal human" thing?」

「...Shut up.」

Hiraku-sama is too cute for this own good, still insisting he is a "normal human" despite clearly being anything but!

「Do I need to get Doraim involved? Since I am just a NORMAL HUMAN, I am not bound to subordination to the Divine Dragons. The Divine Dragons, and the dragons below them, also listen to me.」

Hehe. Haha! HAHAHAHA!

How did Hiraku-sama think that threat would ever work?!

「Oh yes, a "normal human" could definitely command all of the dragons. Beings that don't listen to those weaker than themselves, and most beings ARE weaker than themselves! Dear husband, you're not fooling anyone!」

I may not be allowed to call him "Hiraku-sama" to his face outside the bedroom, but I can still call him "dear husband", much like Rurushi-sama and Tia-sama do. A barely acceptable compromise. At least I can still call him "Hiraku-sama" when he's not in earshot.

Hiraku-sama finally dropped it with a pout. I'll burn his cute expression into my memory forever.

Doraim-sama FINALLY extended some kindness to me. He'll allow me to visit Taiju Village by myself at least three times a week, even more often if there's not much to do. Looks like that Nerima Daikon wine barrel worked its magic, and I think Hiraku-sama will be making more in gratitude. My dear God of Humbleness-sama, your generosity is too great.

However, since Doraim-sama was still in the village and I was absent most of the day yesterday, I had a lot of work to catch up on.

「I love you more than anything and anyone else, dear Village Chief Machio Hiraku-sama and fellow Devil King! I'm eternally grateful my dear God of Humbleness-sama chose me to be his one and only husband!」

「...I'll have your ring finished by the ceremony tonight, you cheeky devil.」

I couldn't help but tease my cute god, but I meant every single word I said. I love Hiraku-sama more than anything and anyone else, and I am eternally grateful he chose me to be his one and only husband.

Hiraku-sama is truly too kind for his own good. He let me remain Devil King and allowed himself to become Devil King by marrying me. He didn't force me to abdicate, nor did he try to annul our marriage so he wouldn't become my fellow Devil King. I would have surrendered my throne for Hiraku-sama, anything for Hiraku-sama. But my dear god's kindness stretches too far. I will never forget this kindness.

With this, we're one step closer to making Hiraku-sama King of the World. Hiraku-sama would make the perfect King of the World, not because he himself wants to be King of the World, but because others want him to be King of the World. Don't worry, my dear god. I'll make sure you can still farm to your heart's content. I'll do all the difficult things. It's the least I can do for my dear husband.

No one believes you when you say you're going to die of old age. Even after almost fifteen years of knowing each other, Hiraku-sama hasn't aged one bit. Not even the best longevity-boosting medications or even World Tree leaves could produce eternal youth like you have. You are truly immortal! Do you claim to be a normal human because it would give you the perfect excuse to ascend back to heaven at the "end of your natural lifespan"? Everyone has decades to convince you to stay in this world forever. We'll make you want to stay with us forever, my dear god...

I'm looking forward to the ring ceremony and the beautiful ring Hiraku-sama will present me. Made by his own hands, made from something so meaningful...my dear god is truly thoughtful.

「You lucky devil, being able to snag such a perfect man.」

Those were the first words I heard from Doraim-sama after I finally returned to his side.

「I noticed that after Village Chief said he would be taking you with him to Shashaato City and Village Five alone yesterday, there hasn't been an explosion of your books and videos within the Demon Kingdom. Yet the contract between us Divine Dragons and you Ancient Devils remains intact, completely unviolated. How did he do it?」

「...Gods work in mysterious ways, do they not?」

I couldn't help the smile that crossed my lips as I uttered those words. I'll never forget my dear god's kindness and selflessness as he helped me that day, helped me when no one else would. He got me, and I got him.

「Humph. As long as the contract isn't violated, there's nothing to worry about. Village Chief can do whatever he wants, after all. I myself said I personally do not care what happens to such books and videos.」

Even Doraim-sama cannot help but bow to this god's whims. Whims he only partakes in to help others.

「Thank you very much, Doraim-sama.」

I then resumed the duties I had put on hold since yesterday, since that fateful trip.

I'm eternally grateful I met you, dear God of Humbleness-sama. Everyone's lives have improved drastically ever since you descended to this world.

And yes, I channeled my inner Versa to write this. Hope it's not too objectifying for Hiraku, though! ;)

And as you can tell, Hiraku is DOOMED. After all, Gucci ALWAYS thought Hiraku is a god. Nothing Hiraku can do or say will ever change his mind! :D

How was it?

Please review! I would really appreciate it!

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