Hello,
I’m Kiwi Alaya .
It’s been about two months since I fled to the demon country of Auguron after being harshly mistreated by the kingdom as an outcast dark healer.
While deeply grateful for the warm acceptance shown by the kind-hearted demonfolk here, I resolved to turn over a new leaf. This time, I aim to pursue both wealth and greater knowledge in earnest, starting my second life as an ordinary town healer.
That was my plan, but—
“This time, Alaya -dono, your feats in Elden were truly remarkable. Agito and many other senior military leaders involved in the Elden recapture operation have unanimously recommended that you be made a Demon Nation Executive.”
This is the Demon King’s castle, in the throne room.
Summoned here to be personally commended by Demon King Lumac Auguron for my contributions to the Elden recapture, I knelt in the center of the chamber—just a step down from the throne—and pondered:
“What reward could I expect for my achievements this time? I already received 120 million gold as a success fee for the mission. If I’m lucky, maybe I could request approval to form a development team to introduce microscopes to the demon country.”
That was what I was thinking, but the first thing Lumac said was entirely unexpected.
…Wait, what? A Demon Nation Executive…?
Isn’t that the title held by people like Agito and the other extraordinary demons currently flanking Demon King Lumac?
Why on earth would His Majesty entrust such a role to someone like me, who just wants to live peacefully as a model citizen of the demon nation?
“Um, could you explain what you mean…?”
“It’s natural to feel bewildered. But understand this: a dark healer who dives into the battlefield alone to save their allies is unprecedented. Many were moved by your heroic actions and expect great things from you.”
“And that’s why you’re making me an executive?”
“Indeed. As an executive, you will be granted significant discretion. With the backing of the demon nation, you’ll be able to act more freely. Surely, this would also be to your advantage.”
“Being able to act freely with national support… I see, that would indeed make it much easier to focus on my ‘work’ (research) without worrying about finances.”
“Hah. Just as Agito said. When faced with what you ‘want to do’ (help your allies), you can’t help but act on it. That’s the kind of person you are.”
“Agito-dono said that…”
When I glanced at the line of demon executives, the imposing figure of Agito stood out. He grinned wickedly at me—a gesture that, with him, signaled goodwill. It seemed to convey something like, “I’ve taken care of everything!”
“Of course, the other executives are already in agreement on this matter.”
Lumac cast a glance at the other executives. The most beautiful among them, Emeralda, smiled gently, and the Dullahan and skeletal demonfolk all nodded in approval.
Even the elderly demon with a monkey-like face—known as “Old Baboon,” who had initially opposed granting me asylum—grumbled:
“Hmph… Achievements are achievements. They should be rewarded appropriately. Besides, I support the idea of cultivating ‘versatile dark healers’ for use against the kingdom and elves. But don’t misunderstand me, Kiwi Alaya ! This doesn’t mean I’m cozying up to you humans!”
Though scowling, he made no move to oppose my appointment.
Demon King Lumac gave a wry smile and shrugged at the old man’s comment.
“Pay no mind to that contrarian old man. In any case, all of us here wish to formally welcome you as an essential member of the demon nation and entrust you with a significant role.”
“…Well, that is an incredible honor, and I’m deeply humbled, but…”
“There’s no need for false modesty. It’s been half a century since we last discussed expanding the executive ranks. Take great pride in this.”
“No, I wouldn’t dare boast. The true pride belongs to the soldiers who fought on the battlefield. I’m simply glad I could support them. Moving forward, I intend to humbly, and ever more humbly, fulfill my duties as a dark healer.”
“Hmm.”
Lumac and the other executives exchanged meaningful glances, nodding as if to say, Yes, we chose well.
Then,
“That strong sense of responsibility toward your role—I’ve heard it clearly. Indeed, we can entrust this position to you.”
“Eh?”
“Kiwi Alaya , let me reiterate. We wish to appoint you as the demon nation’s first dark healer executive. Will you accept?”
With a warm smile, Lumac posed the question.
The throne room fell silent as everyone’s expectant gazes turned toward me.
It was clear from their demeanor that no one expected me to refuse.
At this point, I had no choice but to respond:
“Yes! I will strive to meet the Demon King’s expectations to the best of my ability!”
“Good spirit, Kiwi Alaya !”
“Well done, Kiwi Alaya !”
“This is a great honor, Kiwi Alaya !”
The throne room rang with praise and congratulations.
“From today, Kiwi, you are my direct subordinate. I’m counting on you.”
Lumac descended from the throne, approached, and clasped my hand.
“Yes, I’ll do my utmost.”
The executives—especially Agito—nodded in satisfaction.
“Kiwi, your first assignment is to develop ‘versatile dark healers.’ Initially, you’ll be permitted a team of up to sixteen military medics. Emeralda will provide further details.”
“Yes!”
“Proceed as you see fit. Conduct any research, use any facilities, and train wherever and however you wish under my name.”
“This sounds like I’ll have free rein.”
“Haha, it seems you’re quite motivated. That’s good. Additionally, you may continue operating the Alaya General Clinic as before. Should your duties as an executive leave you short-handed, we’ll fully support you.”
“Your generosity is overwhelming. I’ll carry out my duties with all sincerity.”
Demon King Lumac nodded with a kind, magnanimous smile.
…What is going on?
I can feel nothing but goodwill from Lumac and the executives.
Being appointed as an executive—this is clearly an unparalleled honor and an extraordinary reward recognized by all demonfolk in Auguron .
I want to ask someone:
Why has it come to this?
I just wanted a peaceful life, chasing profit and knowledge as a dark healer.
Why am I now a Demon Nation Executive?
