Chapter 171: Development
As time slowly passed by, the demon lands buzzed with newfound energy as the monster kingdom's influence began to take hold. Demons of various shapes and sizes worked side by side with goblins, ogres, beastkin and orcs, forging a new path for their people.
Lance observed the demons closely, noticing both subtle and major differences amongst them. For example, those of some sort of noble bloodlines, like Veyrath, appeared almost human, their only distinguishing features being elegantly curved horns, and in some cases, tails. These demons carried themselves with poise and dignity for the most part, a reflection of their lineage, and they didn't seem to be much from the ones Lance had seen.
The rest of the demon populace, however, bore a more varied appearance. Some had scaled skin, others had feline or canine features, and a few even resembled birdlike creatures with sharp talons or feathery hair. Despite their diverse appearances, one thing was clear: they were far from the monstrous image he had seen during the war with the demons. Perhaps it was because they appeared to be more reasonable and not crazed.
'They're not so different from the rest of us, just another race trying to survive.' He though to himself.
…
Gradually, the monster kingdom's experts introduced the demons to skills they had long forgotten, or never had the chance to learn. Apart from these everyday skills or more professional ones, when it came to magic, the demon mages appeared to be most refined and learned.
As for those who fell into the more physical categories, they joined the military. The demons' naturally superior physiques gave them an edge, and they adapted quickly to the rigorous regimen.
…
Of course, the integration of demons into the monster kingdom was not without its challenges. Prejudices ran deep, especially amongst those who had witnessed massacres and destructions brought on by the demons.
But that was only natural, and Lance was determined to see to it that his kingdom didn't crumble because of internal disputes.
…
In only a few months, the demon lands were no longer desolate. The core city was now bustling with activity, crops grew steadily under the watchful eyes of the farmers, and the sound of warriors training echoed across the once-barren terrain. Lance's decision to integrate the demons into his kingdom had begun to yield results beyond expectations.
Additionally, word of the monster kingdom's inclusivity spread quickly, reaching the ears of other faraway groups and tribes of monster races across the continent. In bands, they began arriving at the borders, seeking refuge.
Of course, systems had already been put in place to handle such things, so Lance didn't have to make a move himself, not even he leaders of the different races had to.
"You're building an army without even trying, Lance. At this rate, the larger nations will be shaking in their boots." Rynned remarked with a chuckle as her lips trailed down his body.
"I doubt a human population of millions will be too bothered… Either way, that doesn't matter, for the time being." He said, turning her over to her back.
…
Life seemed to be going well, and with every new addition to the population, each branch of works would get a boast, as those who arrived couldn't remain idol. One day, a young demon girl with small, curling horns approached Mira hesitantly. "Lady Mira?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Mira turned, smiling warmly. "Yes, dear? How can I help you?"
"I... I want to learn healing magic," the girl said, fidgeting nervously. "I've always been fascinated by medicine, but I've never had the chance to study it."
Mira knelt down, placing a reassuring hand on the girl's shoulder. "You've come to the right place. Healing isn't just about magic, it's about understanding the body, the mind, and the spirit. If you're willing to work hard, I'll teach you everything I know!"
The girl's eyes lit up with excitement. "Thank you, Lady Mira! I won't let you down!"
As the days passed, the young demon proved to be a quick learner. Mira shared her knowledge of herbal remedies and healing spells, while the apprentice marveled at stories of Lance's incredible healing magic.
"Is it true that Lord Lance can heal almost anything?" the girl asked one day, her eyes wide with curiosity.
Mira chuckled. "It's true. His healing magic is unlike anything I've ever seen. But what makes him truly special is his willingness to use that power to help others, no matter the cost to himself."
The girl nodded solemnly, her eyes gleaming with childlike wonder. "I want to be like that someday!"
Laughing warmly, Mira patted her on her head, "you will."
The healing aspect aside, the magic segment was buzzing with much activity, with Aelyndra even finding herself interested more than usual. With the demons bringing their knowledge on magic, it was truly a new learning process.
In a nearby chamber, Lia worked closely with a group of demon mages.
A tall demon with fiery red hair and a pair of curled horns stood beside Lia, his hands glowing with crimson light. "Your defensive spells are fascinating," he said, his voice tinged with admiration. "We mostly always focus on raw power, but your spells truly are marveling."
Lia smiled, her hair shimmering as she cast a protective ward around a nearby training dummy. "And your offensive spells are incredibly efficient. If I can master them, I'll be able to strike harder while still protecting those who depend on me. I do know a few offensive spell, but compared to yours, they are inadequate."
The demon mage nodded. "It's a worthy goal. You've got talent, Lady Lia."
"Of course I do." She said lightly accompanied with a chuckle. "Come on, let's move on to the next test. I've been able to tweak my spell more after consulting Aelyndra. This time, it should be able to withstand your tier 3 spell." She said.
"Alright then, let's go for it."