The way of the fist

"SALLY!!!" 

The voice of Alma Elma echoed through the walls of the Monster Lord's castle. 

Thirty years had passed since she first asked Galla to teach her the basics of writing. While her day-to-day life hadn't shifted much in those decades, her reputation had grown to legendary proportions. Alma Elma, the Queen of Succubi, was now a name spoken with admiration among succubi. She was a symbol of boundless freedom, playful chaos, and unparalleled mischief.

Succubi across the world revered her as the epitome of their kind—bold, free-spirited, and unapologetically true to herself. To them, she wasn't just a queen; she was an ideal, a beacon of what a succubus could achieve if they dared to follow their desires without hesitation.

Not that any of this was true to her.

"Where is she hiding this time?" Alma Elma muttered as she stormed down the ornate corridor, her boots clicking against the marble floor.

She pushed open a door with dramatic flair, revealing a lounging Sally, casually sipping on a glass of wine.

"There you are!" Alma Elma exclaimed, crossing her arms and leaning against the doorframe.

Sally looked up, unbothered by the queen's sudden intrusion. "Oh? Did you receive my letter?"

"Damn right I did!" Alma Elma shot back, waving the crumpled parchment in her hand. "Why on earth did you register me for the Monster Lord's selection?!"

Sally shrugged nonchalantly, setting her glass down with a soft clink. "I thought you might enjoy a good fight. It's been ages since you last used those fists of yours, Your Majesty."

"Sally, we both know I'm not going to fight with violence. I'm the Queen of Succubi—it would be a disgrace for me to stoop to that level in a formal competition!"

Sally raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "Alright, then. The real reason?"

"Do enlighten me," Alma Elma drawled sarcastically.

"I think you'd make an excellent Monster Lord." Sally's tone shifted, her voice calm but firm.

The queen blinked, momentarily stunned. "…You're joking."

"I am," Sally nodded. "If there is someone who can change things up, it's you. I know how strong you are, and with a bit of surprise, you have a chance of winning."

For a moment, Alma Elma wondered if she'd completely lost her mind. If there was one thing she didn't want, it was another responsibility on her shoulders. Being a queen was already a pain while also having its perks, but Monster Lord? It was just inconceivable.

"You know what? Fine," Alma Elma said with a dazzling yet forced smile, her voice dripping with faux cheer. "You're absolutely right, Sally…♪ I'll participate. There. Happy now?"

Sally leaned back in her chair, an amused grin spreading across her face. "Oh, you don't really have a choice. You've already been enrolled."

"I could just… not show up."

Sally didn't miss a beat, her grin widening. "And let everyone down? Think of the scandal. The disappointment. The dramatic cries of, 'How could Alma Elma, Queen of Succubi, dare to abandon the chance to fight for the Monster Lord's title?'" She gestured theatrically with her wine glass. "Especially when everyone knows you are unmatched."

Alma Elma said nothing and instead left the room. If there was one thing true to all of this, it was that she wanted to see what the other candidates were capable of. 

Her thoughts drifted as she strolled down the corridor, wings tucked neatly behind her. She already knew the names of the notable competitors. Each one had a reputation that preceded them, and she couldn't help but wonder how her own skills would measure up.

Granberia, the dragon swordswoman, stood out immediately. She was said to have trained under Salamander, the spirit of fire, honing her blade to the pinnacle of mastery. Alma Elma smirked at the thought—she could almost feel the heat of Granberia's aura just imagining it.

Then there was Erubetie, the slime queen. A quiet, enigmatic figure who rarely showed herself, but her reason for joining was clear: she fought for her kind, to ensure their survival from human's pollution.

Tamamo, the nine-tailed kitsune, was another competitor Alma Elma had been curious about. Alma Elma had never spent much time around Tamamo, but the kitsune's power was legendary, her fluffy tails almost as famous as her strength. Alma Elma chuckled to herself. "She'll probably try to outwit everyone before using her full strength."

And then, there was Alice. A young yoma raised in the seclusion of Kitsune Village. Alma Elma already knew she'd be a force to reckon with—how could she not be, given her lineage as the next Monster Lord? Alma Elma's smirk softened into a grin. She was curious to see if the girl had inherited her family's strength... and if she had the resolve to use it.

As she reached her room, Alma Elma sighed, stretching her arms over her head. "This might be more fun than I thought…♪" she murmured, already plotting her strategy. 

Though a flicker of doubt remained. It felt as if she didn't belong in the ceremony in the first place. She had no reason to fight, after all.

Granberia wanted to test her strength, Erubetie was fighting for her kind, Tamamo probably to 

test Alice's strength, and Alice to take the throne.

Alma Elma had nothing. She was just enlisted by accident, and what she wanted was ridiculous compared to their determination. 

She felt like a disgrace compared to them.

"Still, I want to at least see Granberia," she muttered under her breath while looking at the parchment in her hand. "I want to see how strong she is."

That thought alone was enough to keep her moving forward. Maybe she didn't have a noble reason to fight. Maybe her participation was nothing more than a cosmic joke. But if she could witness their strength—if she could feel the thrill of the fight, even for a moment—it might all be worth it.

"I'm glad to see everyone is here," Tamamo's calm yet commanding voice broke the silence, drawing all eyes to her. She stood at the center of the room, her nine tails swaying gracefully behind her as she regarded the candidates assembled before her.

The room itself was grand and imposing, a throne room built specifically for this ceremony. Its high ceiling and towering columns made for a perfect battleground, one that had witnessed countless battles fought for the title. Only one monster would emerge victorious, earning the right to ascend the throne.

Alma Elma leaned casually against one of the ornate pillars, a playful smile tugging at her lips as she scanned the room. Alice stood with her arms crossed, exuding an air of confidence. Her piercing gaze swept over the group, but especially paused on Tamamo. She looked more worried about the kitsune rather than the rest.

Erubetie looked calm, yet she could feel a strong determination within her. 

Granberia sat cross-legged on the ground, her sword resting across her lap as she meditated. The sight made Alma Elma chuckle softly to herself. Although she looked cute like that.

"The rules are simple," Tamamo continued, noting that no one had exchanged a single word yet. "This is a battle royale. You are free to fight anyone you choose."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A battle royale, huh? Now this sounds interesting…♪"

Tamamo's gaze flicked to Alma Elma for a brief moment before continuing. "The only rule is this: no interference from anyone outside the competition. This is a test of your individual strength, strategy, and resolve. The last one standing will claim the throne."

Alice finally broke her silence. "Good, let's get started then."

Granberia's eyes opened slowly, and then she stood up. "I am ready."

Erubetie said nothing, her expression unreadable, though the faint ripples of her form betrayed her readiness.

Alma Elma stretched her arms, her smile widening. "Well, this should be fun. Let's see what everyone's got."

"At least one here is relaxed," Tamamo chuckled. "Then, let the ceremony begin."

The moment Tamamo's words echoed through the chamber, chaos erupted. The first few spells were launched with explosive force. Alma Elma immediately twisted midair, narrowly avoiding a talisman hurled by Tamamo that detonated on the ground, leaving a deep scorch mark and shaking the floor beneath her.

"Close one…♪" Alma Elma murmured, still grinning as she floated effortlessly above the fray.

Surprisingly, that was the only spell she received in the beginning. Granberia immediately launched an attack at Alice, which she dodged easily by casting ice magic on the floor. Erubetie also attacked Tamamo by trying to envelop her in slime.

She was left all alone, flying in the air without anyone even taking her seriously.

"Huh. They're not even taking me seriously," she muttered to herself, tilting her head as she watched the chaos below. "How rude…♪"

Still, she couldn't help but enjoy the spectacle. The sheer intensity of the battles unfolding before her was thrilling. She observed Granberia's raw power, Alice's calculated movement, Tamamo's clever maneuvers, and Erubetie's relentless adaptability.

They were all formidable monsters on their own. 

Alma Elma's playful smile wavered as she continued to observe. She couldn't ignore the sharp contrast between their intense focus and her own lack of purpose. Her gaze lingered on Granberia, who charged forward, flames roaring along her blade as she clashed fiercely with Erubetie.

That fiery glare—the unyielding determination burning in the dragon's eyes—sent a shiver down her spine.

"They're all so focused... so driven," Alma Elma muttered, her voice soft. Her playful demeanor faltered, replaced by something quieter, more uncertain.

It reminded her of her past—before she became queen, back in that small, quiet village where she was just another nameless succubus trying to find her place.

"I really don't belong here after all…" she sighed, her excitement dimming like a candle snuffed out. 

She hovered in silence, watching the others battle with purpose, while she remained an idle spectator, unsure if she had any right to be there at all.

But even as doubt clawed at her, Alma Elma couldn't remain passive forever. She let out a small sigh and decided, if nothing else, to test the waters.

Without a hint of enthusiasm, she lazily conjured a barrage of wind blades, sending them hurtling toward Granberia.

The dragon's reaction was immediate, her blazing sword flashing in arcs of fire as she slashed through the incoming blades one after another. 

Granberia's eyes darted upward, locking onto Alma Elma. For the first time, the queen of succubi felt the weight of that fiery gaze directed at her.

"So, you finally decided to join us," Granberia called, her voice steady and edged with amusement. She planted her sword into the ground, flames licking up its length as if daring Alma Elma to strike again. "About time you stopped floating around like a spectator."

Alma Elma's lips curled into a smile at the sight of the dragon's confidence. 

Oh, I like that…♪ she thought, feeling a flicker of interest return.

But even though that challenge was endearing, Alma Elma didn't want to try anymore. The fire in her heart was extinguished, and she landed on the marble floor with her arms raised. 

"I give up!" she called out, the words almost foreign to her own ears.

Without waiting for any reaction or approval, she turned on her heel and walked toward the door. Her steps echoed softly in the tense silence that followed her declaration. The others, still deep in their battles, barely took notice of her exit.

Granberia, however, watched her leave, a puzzled frown creasing her brow as Alma Elma disappeared beyond the door. But the succubus queen didn't care anymore.

Her only thought as she left was that she no longer felt like playing this game.

"And that's how I gave up…♪" she declared, leaning back casually against the doorframe with a carefree smile.

Galla, looking exhausted, sighed heavily. "Can you leave, please? My wife is going to kill me if she sees you…"

"Aww… Little old Galla is scared?" Alma Elma smirked. "Is it your old age that makes you so wary of me?"

"No, but it's been years since we've last seen each other. You could at least warn me before dropping in like this," Galla muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Oh, come on," she teased, waving a hand dismissively. "What's a little surprise visit between old friends? Besides, it's not like your wife is going to care that much—right?"

"Anyway, I was just passing by to take some paper from you, bye!" 

"Wha—?" Galla looked at his desk too late to see she had already snatched his high-quality paper. "Come back here you damn flying obscenity!" he shot back with his fist raised. 

Alma Elma cackled, her wings flapping as she took off into the air, holding the stolen paper triumphantly. "See you around, Galla!" she called, her voice lilting with mischief as she flew out of the room, leaving him seething in her wake.

Galla stood there for a moment, fist still raised, before he sighed and slumped into his chair. "She's impossible..."

She took flight and left, leaving Galla alone. Once back inside her room in the castle, Alma Elma placed the paper scroll on a nearby table and stretched her arms lazily. Tonight, she decided, she would write—though exactly what, she wasn't sure yet.

But before she could get to it, a knock on the door interrupted her.

Without waiting for an invitation, the young yoma—Alice—slithered into the room. Her eyes scanned the space with cautious curiosity before they locked onto Alma Elma. She was every bit the stern figure Alma Elma had expected, but the gleam in her eyes hinted at something more beneath the surface.

"So, you're Alma Elma," Alice said, her tone serious.

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, amused. "Oh? Does that mean you won?" She leaned back casually in her chair, her lips curling into a playful smirk. "Congratulations, Monster Lord."

Alice gave a small nod, her expression still unreadable. "Thank you." She tilted her head slightly, her gaze narrowing just enough to show her curiosity. "But why did you leave early? We didn't even have the chance to fight each other."

"I just didn't feel like it in the end…♪" she said with a teasing smile, as though the thought of engaging in the battle had become tiresome. "It didn't seem worth it."

"I don't understand, but fine. I didn't expect much from the queen of succubi anyway," Alice sighed.

"Ouch, you're hurting me, Your Majesty…♪" Alma Elma winced with mock pain.

Alice crossed her arms, her gaze unwavering. "I don't have time for games," she replied, her voice firm. "I came to speak with you about something important."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? And what's that?"

Alice hesitated for a moment, her eyes briefly darting to the side as if weighing her words carefully. "I need your strength," she said, her voice steady. "Or at least I offer you a position as one of my knights."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "A knight? You do realize I don't play by the same rules as everyone else, right?"

Alice nodded. "I know. But that's precisely why I need someone like you. You're one of the few who fought for the throne, even if you surrendered early. That makes you deserving of at least a bit of respect, doesn't it?"

Alma Elma leaned back in her chair, mulling over Alice's words. "You think you can earn my respect just by offering me a title?"

"I…" Alice was at a loss for words. She thought for a long moment before Alma Elma interrupted her with a chuckle.

"I already respect you, Monster Lord," Alma Elma winked. "I will do as I say, just like I did with your mother."

"I heard from Tamamo that you weren't listening clearly to her orders."

"I was just doing things my own way, that's it…♪"

Alice exhaled sharply, clearly growing frustrated but not showing it. "Fine," she said with a resigned sigh, clearly having run out of patience. "Then it's official. You are my Heavenly Knight of the Wind."

Alma Elma's smile widened. "Oh, I like that. It has a nice ring to it."

Alice, already turning toward the door, glanced back over her shoulder. "My first decree is that monsters have now the right to self-defense. No more of this senseless slaughter of our kind."

"Okay…♪"

She gazed at Alice as she slithered out. She had heard of the tragic evenement of her mother's death from Sally, so she knew the little Alice wouldn't be as soft as her mother. 

"I guess I have to put in some work, huh…" Alma Elma sighed. An idea began to form in her mind, one that was far more efficient than simply wandering the Ilias Continent and hunting down heroes. It was something she'd thought of before, but the other Monster Lords had always shut it down.

It was still something that could keep her mind occupied after all. She didn't need to think, she didn't want to think anymore. 

So she flew to Iliasport and began forming a tempest there to avoid heroes that came from this continent to traverse the sea and join Sentora.

Once done, she flew back to the castle to enjoy some time alone, only to be again interrupted by someone else. 

"Oh, if it isn't Granberry…♪"

The proud dragon swordswoman stood at the entrance, her stance firm and dignified, her eyes filled with that familiar challenge. Alma Elma's heart fluttered with excitement at the prospect of a good distraction. After all, it had been far too long since she had faced someone with a bit of fire in them.

Granberia's voice was steady and strong as she spoke, her usual air of confidence undeterred. "I challenge you, Queen of Succubi, to a duel."

Alma Elma smirked, her wings twitching slightly. "Oh? You're challenging me? Okay…♪"

With a blur, Alma Elma found herself behind the dragon but Granberia unsheathed her sword to strike her. The succubus Queen dodged narrowingly and began to circle around the swordsman.

"I see you are fast," Granberia muttered as she tried to keep up with the succubus queen. "Why didn't you fight back in the ceremony?"

Alma Elma's laugh rang out like a sweet melody in the air. "I had seen everything I needed to…♪"

Before Granberia could react, Alma Elma snapped her fingers, and gusts of wind materialized from thin air, swirling around the dragon swordsman like a tempest. The powerful winds whipped around her, but Granberia, unmoved by the assault, swung her sword with precision. Each gust was cut down with a swift motion, the air itself parting as Granberia advanced toward Alma Elma.

Without missing a beat, Granberia charged forward, her blade moving in a deadly arc aimed at the succubus queen. But Alma Elma was already gone—vanished into thin air.

"Is that all you've got, Granberia?" Alma Elma's voice echoed from all sides as she floated just above her, her teasing smile audible even in the wind.

Granberia gritted her teeth, her eyes scanning the area. She had anticipated the move, but Alma Elma's speed made her seem like she was everywhere at once.

"You've got the speed," Granberia muttered under her breath. "But let's see if you can dodge that!" her blade burst into flames. 

"Oh no, Granberry…♪" Alma Elma smirked as she saw the dragon prepare her ultimate attack. "What should I do?"

Ah… I really like her… She is truly a blazing warrior.

"Here is my technique: Vaporizing Reb—"

But before she could unleash her technique, Alma Elma swiftly caressed her breasts through her armor, making the dragon whimper for a split second.

"Oh? You're quite sensitive Granberry…" Alma Elma smirked as she began to massage Alma Elma from behind, making the dragon lose her entire focus.

"Ah… Ah… Stop it! This is… Not how a battle… Should be fought…!" Granberia gritted her teeth between each moan, helpless from Alma Elma's touch. Her scales, usually so proud and impenetrable, seemed to shiver and quake under the succubus's skilled fingers.

"But you challenged the queen of succubi, right?" Alma Elma teased, her voice dropping to a whisper as she leaned in close to her ear. "You should be prepared for those kinds of..." She then slid her fingers down to her crotch and licked her ear, her hot breath sending shivers through Granberia's entire body. "...Attack." 

"Ah... Please stop!" Granberia whimpered, her body shaking with need.

The warrior's disgraceful moans of need echoed through the empty hallway as Alma Elma had her way with her, skillfully working every inch of her body until Granberia was nothing but a twitching, spent mess on the floor.

"Perhaps you will win against me next time…♪" Alma teased as she walked away. 

"This is so… Humiliating…" Granberia breathed heavily from the effects of Critical Ecstasy.

Ah… This was fun… Alma Elma sighed internally of contentment. The way that Dragon Girl acted pushed all her buttons and she really didn't hold back on her. 

The door to her room opened effortlessly as she stepped inside. A soft exhale escaped her lips as she collapsed onto the plush cushions of her bed, stretching out with a satisfied groan. The soft, moonlight filtering through the windows was peaceful, and for the first time that day, Alma Elma allowed herself a moment of calm.

But even in the quiet, a thought lingered at the back of her mind. 

"Why is it always so complicated…" Alma Elma sighed as the thoughts of her mother resurfaced in her mind. "Even after so long, I can't let go of it, huh…"

No matter how much she drowned herself in pleasure, or granting all of her wishes, this lingering doubt remained in her mind.

Her lips pressed together in a tight line as she gazed out the window, the distant moonlight casting a soft glow on the room. The calm of the night should have been comforting, but it only emphasized the aching silence inside her.

"I'm free," she murmured to herself, but even the words felt hollow in the quiet. Free to do what, though? Free to live only for herself, to indulge in whatever she pleased, but still… this . Still this constant pull toward something she couldn't escape.

She was not the succubus her mother wanted and she was not the martial artist she wanted. 

She had become nothing more than a soulless ideal carried by the wind, with no goals in mind anymore. 

Granberia reminded her of all of that. 

And yet, she couldn't let go of that sentiment, of that pride of being queen. Perhaps the last thing that attached her to her old mother. 

That same year, that thought resurfaced more than ever. Perhaps it was her daily spars with Granberia who brought back her old self. 

However one day, everything changed. An event that would surely bring her out of her shell, little by little. 

A certain hero who began his journey that same year, with a head full of dreams of coexistence.

"Hm? Someone's trying to traverse my storm…" she mused as she felt the change in the wind from there. 

"...Guess I should have a look…♪"

At least, for now… 

A lot of fun was heading its way.

"SALLY!!!" 

The voice of Alma Elma echoed through the walls of the Monster Lord's castle. 

Thirty years had passed since she first asked Galla to teach her the basics of writing. While her day-to-day life hadn't shifted much in those decades, her reputation had grown to legendary proportions. Alma Elma, the Queen of Succubi, was now a name spoken with admiration among succubi. She was a symbol of boundless freedom, playful chaos, and unparalleled mischief.

Succubi across the world revered her as the epitome of their kind—bold, free-spirited, and unapologetically true to herself. To them, she wasn't just a queen; she was an ideal, a beacon of what a succubus could achieve if they dared to follow their desires without hesitation.

Not that any of this was true to her.

"Where is she hiding this time?" Alma Elma muttered as she stormed down the ornate corridor, her boots clicking against the marble floor.

She pushed open a door with dramatic flair, revealing a lounging Sally, casually sipping on a glass of wine.

"There you are!" Alma Elma exclaimed, crossing her arms and leaning against the doorframe.

Sally looked up, unbothered by the queen's sudden intrusion. "Oh? Did you receive my letter?"

"Damn right I did!" Alma Elma shot back, waving the crumpled parchment in her hand. "Why on earth did you register me for the Monster Lord's selection?!"

Sally shrugged nonchalantly, setting her glass down with a soft clink. "I thought you might enjoy a good fight. It's been ages since you last used those fists of yours, Your Majesty."

"Sally, we both know I'm not going to fight with violence. I'm the Queen of Succubi—it would be a disgrace for me to stoop to that level in a formal competition!"

Sally raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "Alright, then. The real reason?"

"Do enlighten me," Alma Elma drawled sarcastically.

"I think you'd make an excellent Monster Lord." Sally's tone shifted, her voice calm but firm.

The queen blinked, momentarily stunned. "…You're joking."

"I am," Sally nodded. "If there is someone who can change things up, it's you. I know how strong you are, and with a bit of surprise, you have a chance of winning."

For a moment, Alma Elma wondered if she'd completely lost her mind. If there was one thing she didn't want, it was another responsibility on her shoulders. Being a queen was already a pain while also having its perks, but Monster Lord? It was just inconceivable.

"You know what? Fine," Alma Elma said with a dazzling yet forced smile, her voice dripping with faux cheer. "You're absolutely right, Sally…♪ I'll participate. There. Happy now?"

Sally leaned back in her chair, an amused grin spreading across her face. "Oh, you don't really have a choice. You've already been enrolled."

"I could just… not show up."

Sally didn't miss a beat, her grin widening. "And let everyone down? Think of the scandal. The disappointment. The dramatic cries of, 'How could Alma Elma, Queen of Succubi, dare to abandon the chance to fight for the Monster Lord's title?'" She gestured theatrically with her wine glass. "Especially when everyone knows you are unmatched."

Alma Elma said nothing and instead left the room. If there was one thing true to all of this, it was that she wanted to see what the other candidates were capable of. 

Her thoughts drifted as she strolled down the corridor, wings tucked neatly behind her. She already knew the names of the notable competitors. Each one had a reputation that preceded them, and she couldn't help but wonder how her own skills would measure up.

Granberia, the dragon swordswoman, stood out immediately. She was said to have trained under Salamander, the spirit of fire, honing her blade to the pinnacle of mastery. Alma Elma smirked at the thought—she could almost feel the heat of Granberia's aura just imagining it.

Then there was Erubetie, the slime queen. A quiet, enigmatic figure who rarely showed herself, but her reason for joining was clear: she fought for her kind, to ensure their survival from human's pollution.

Tamamo, the nine-tailed kitsune, was another competitor Alma Elma had been curious about. Alma Elma had never spent much time around Tamamo, but the kitsune's power was legendary, her fluffy tails almost as famous as her strength. Alma Elma chuckled to herself. "She'll probably try to outwit everyone before using her full strength."

And then, there was Alice. A young yoma raised in the seclusion of Kitsune Village. Alma Elma already knew she'd be a force to reckon with—how could she not be, given her lineage as the next Monster Lord? Alma Elma's smirk softened into a grin. She was curious to see if the girl had inherited her family's strength... and if she had the resolve to use it.

As she reached her room, Alma Elma sighed, stretching her arms over her head. "This might be more fun than I thought…♪" she murmured, already plotting her strategy. 

Though a flicker of doubt remained. It felt as if she didn't belong in the ceremony in the first place. She had no reason to fight, after all.

Granberia wanted to test her strength, Erubetie was fighting for her kind, Tamamo probably to 

test Alice's strength, and Alice to take the throne.

Alma Elma had nothing. She was just enlisted by accident, and what she wanted was ridiculous compared to their determination. 

She felt like a disgrace compared to them.

"Still, I want to at least see Granberia," she muttered under her breath while looking at the parchment in her hand. "I want to see how strong she is."

That thought alone was enough to keep her moving forward. Maybe she didn't have a noble reason to fight. Maybe her participation was nothing more than a cosmic joke. But if she could witness their strength—if she could feel the thrill of the fight, even for a moment—it might all be worth it.

"I'm glad to see everyone is here," Tamamo's calm yet commanding voice broke the silence, drawing all eyes to her. She stood at the center of the room, her nine tails swaying gracefully behind her as she regarded the candidates assembled before her.

The room itself was grand and imposing, a throne room built specifically for this ceremony. Its high ceiling and towering columns made for a perfect battleground, one that had witnessed countless battles fought for the title. Only one monster would emerge victorious, earning the right to ascend the throne.

Alma Elma leaned casually against one of the ornate pillars, a playful smile tugging at her lips as she scanned the room. Alice stood with her arms crossed, exuding an air of confidence. Her piercing gaze swept over the group, but especially paused on Tamamo. She looked more worried about the kitsune rather than the rest.

Erubetie looked calm, yet she could feel a strong determination within her. 

Granberia sat cross-legged on the ground, her sword resting across her lap as she meditated. The sight made Alma Elma chuckle softly to herself. Although she looked cute like that.

"The rules are simple," Tamamo continued, noting that no one had exchanged a single word yet. "This is a battle royale. You are free to fight anyone you choose."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A battle royale, huh? Now this sounds interesting…♪"

Tamamo's gaze flicked to Alma Elma for a brief moment before continuing. "The only rule is this: no interference from anyone outside the competition. This is a test of your individual strength, strategy, and resolve. The last one standing will claim the throne."

Alice finally broke her silence. "Good, let's get started then."

Granberia's eyes opened slowly, and then she stood up. "I am ready."

Erubetie said nothing, her expression unreadable, though the faint ripples of her form betrayed her readiness.

Alma Elma stretched her arms, her smile widening. "Well, this should be fun. Let's see what everyone's got."

"At least one here is relaxed," Tamamo chuckled. "Then, let the ceremony begin."

The moment Tamamo's words echoed through the chamber, chaos erupted. The first few spells were launched with explosive force. Alma Elma immediately twisted midair, narrowly avoiding a talisman hurled by Tamamo that detonated on the ground, leaving a deep scorch mark and shaking the floor beneath her.

"Close one…♪" Alma Elma murmured, still grinning as she floated effortlessly above the fray.

Surprisingly, that was the only spell she received in the beginning. Granberia immediately launched an attack at Alice, which she dodged easily by casting ice magic on the floor. Erubetie also attacked Tamamo by trying to envelop her in slime.

She was left all alone, flying in the air without anyone even taking her seriously.

"Huh. They're not even taking me seriously," she muttered to herself, tilting her head as she watched the chaos below. "How rude…♪"

Still, she couldn't help but enjoy the spectacle. The sheer intensity of the battles unfolding before her was thrilling. She observed Granberia's raw power, Alice's calculated movement, Tamamo's clever maneuvers, and Erubetie's relentless adaptability.

They were all formidable monsters on their own. 

Alma Elma's playful smile wavered as she continued to observe. She couldn't ignore the sharp contrast between their intense focus and her own lack of purpose. Her gaze lingered on Granberia, who charged forward, flames roaring along her blade as she clashed fiercely with Erubetie.

That fiery glare—the unyielding determination burning in the dragon's eyes—sent a shiver down her spine.

"They're all so focused... so driven," Alma Elma muttered, her voice soft. Her playful demeanor faltered, replaced by something quieter, more uncertain.

It reminded her of her past—before she became queen, back in that small, quiet village where she was just another nameless succubus trying to find her place.

"I really don't belong here after all…" she sighed, her excitement dimming like a candle snuffed out. 

She hovered in silence, watching the others battle with purpose, while she remained an idle spectator, unsure if she had any right to be there at all.

But even as doubt clawed at her, Alma Elma couldn't remain passive forever. She let out a small sigh and decided, if nothing else, to test the waters.

Without a hint of enthusiasm, she lazily conjured a barrage of wind blades, sending them hurtling toward Granberia.

The dragon's reaction was immediate, her blazing sword flashing in arcs of fire as she slashed through the incoming blades one after another. 

Granberia's eyes darted upward, locking onto Alma Elma. For the first time, the queen of succubi felt the weight of that fiery gaze directed at her.

"So, you finally decided to join us," Granberia called, her voice steady and edged with amusement. She planted her sword into the ground, flames licking up its length as if daring Alma Elma to strike again. "About time you stopped floating around like a spectator."

Alma Elma's lips curled into a smile at the sight of the dragon's confidence. 

Oh, I like that…♪ she thought, feeling a flicker of interest return.

But even though that challenge was endearing, Alma Elma didn't want to try anymore. The fire in her heart was extinguished, and she landed on the marble floor with her arms raised. 

"I give up!" she called out, the words almost foreign to her own ears.

Without waiting for any reaction or approval, she turned on her heel and walked toward the door. Her steps echoed softly in the tense silence that followed her declaration. The others, still deep in their battles, barely took notice of her exit.

Granberia, however, watched her leave, a puzzled frown creasing her brow as Alma Elma disappeared beyond the door. But the succubus queen didn't care anymore.

Her only thought as she left was that she no longer felt like playing this game.

"And that's how I gave up…♪" she declared, leaning back casually against the doorframe with a carefree smile.

Galla, looking exhausted, sighed heavily. "Can you leave, please? My wife is going to kill me if she sees you…"

"Aww… Little Galla is scared?" Alma Elma smirked.

"No, but it's been years since we've last seen each other. You could at least warn me before dropping in like this," Galla muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Oh, come on," she teased, waving a hand dismissively. "What's a little surprise visit between old friends? Besides, it's not like your wife is going to care that much—right?"

"Anyway, I was just passing by to take some paper from you, bye!" 

"Wha—?" Galla looked at his desk too late to see she had already snatched his high-quality paper. "Come back here you damn flying obscenity!" he shot back with his fist raised. 

Alma Elma cackled, her wings flapping as she took off into the air, holding the stolen paper triumphantly. "See you around, Galla!" she called, her voice lilting with mischief as she flew out of the room, leaving him seething in her wake.

Galla stood there for a moment, fist still raised, before he sighed and slumped into his chair. "She's impossible..."

She took flight and left, leaving Galla alone. Once back inside her room in the castle, Alma Elma placed the paper scroll on a nearby table and stretched her arms lazily. Tonight, she decided, she would write—though exactly what, she wasn't sure yet.

But before she could get to it, a knock on the door interrupted her.

Without waiting for an invitation, the young yoma—Alice—slithered into the room. Her eyes scanned the space with cautious curiosity before they locked onto Alma Elma. She was every bit the stern figure Alma Elma had expected, but the gleam in her eyes hinted at something more beneath the surface.

"So, you're Alma Elma," Alice said, her tone serious.

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, amused. "Oh? Does that mean you won?" She leaned back casually in her chair, her lips curling into a playful smirk. "Congratulations, Monster Lord."

Alice gave a small nod, her expression still unreadable. "Thank you." She tilted her head slightly, her gaze narrowing just enough to show her curiosity. "But why did you leave early? We didn't even have the chance to fight each other."

"I just didn't feel like it in the end…♪" she said with a teasing smile, as though the thought of engaging in the battle had become tiresome. "It didn't seem worth it."

"I don't understand, but fine. I didn't expect much from the queen of succubi anyway," Alice sighed.

"Ouch, you're hurting me, Your Majesty…♪" Alma Elma winced with mock pain.

Alice crossed her arms, her gaze unwavering. "I don't have time for games," she replied, her voice firm. "I came to speak with you about something important."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? And what's that?"

Alice hesitated for a moment, her eyes briefly darting to the side as if weighing her words carefully. "I need your strength," she said, her voice steady. "Or at least I offer you a position as one of my knights."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "A knight? You do realize I don't play by the same rules as everyone else, right?"

Alice nodded. "I know. But that's precisely why I need someone like you. You're one of the few who fought for the throne, even if you surrendered early. That makes you deserving of at least a bit of respect, doesn't it?"

Alma Elma leaned back in her chair, mulling over Alice's words. "You think you can earn my respect just by offering me a title?"

"I…" Alice was at a loss for words. She thought for a long moment before Alma Elma interrupted her with a chuckle.

"I already respect you, Monster Lord," Alma Elma winked. "I will do as I say, just like I did with your mother."

"I heard from Tamamo that you weren't listening clearly to her orders."

"I was just doing things my own way, that's it…♪"

Alice exhaled sharply, clearly growing frustrated but not showing it. "Fine," she said with a resigned sigh, clearly having run out of patience. "Then it's official. You are my Heavenly Knight of the Wind."

Alma Elma's smile widened. "Oh, I like that. It has a nice ring to it."

Alice, already turning toward the door, glanced back over her shoulder. "My first decree is that monsters have now the right to self-defense. No more of this senseless slaughter of our kind."

"Okay…♪"

She gazed at Alice as she slithered out. She had heard of the tragic evenement of her mother's death from Sally, so she knew the little Alice wouldn't be as soft as her mother. 

"I guess I have to put in some work, huh…" Alma Elma sighed. An idea began to form in her mind, one that was far more efficient than simply wandering the Ilias Continent and hunting down heroes. It was something she'd thought of before, but the other Monster Lords had always shut it down.

It was still something that could keep her mind occupied after all. She didn't need to think, she didn't want to think anymore. 

So she flew to Iliasport and began forming a tempest there to avoid heroes that came from this continent to traverse the sea and join Sentora.

Once done, she flew back to the castle to enjoy some time alone, only to be again interrupted by someone else. 

"Oh, if it isn't Granberry…♪"

The proud dragon swordswoman stood at the entrance, her stance firm and dignified, her eyes filled with that familiar challenge. Alma Elma's heart fluttered with excitement at the prospect of a good distraction. After all, it had been far too long since she had faced someone with a bit of fire in them.

Granberia's voice was steady and strong as she spoke, her usual air of confidence undeterred. "I challenge you, Queen of Succubi, to a duel."

Alma Elma smirked, her wings twitching slightly. "Oh? You're challenging me? Okay…♪"

With a blur, Alma Elma found herself behind the dragon but Granberia unsheathed her sword to strike her. The succubus Queen dodged narrowingly and began to circle around the swordsman.

"I see you are fast," Granberia muttered as she tried to keep up with the succubus queen. "Why didn't you fight back in the ceremony?"

Alma Elma's laugh rang out like a sweet melody in the air. "I had seen everything I needed to…♪"

Before Granberia could react, Alma Elma snapped her fingers, and gusts of wind materialized from thin air, swirling around the dragon swordsman like a tempest. The powerful winds whipped around her, but Granberia, unmoved by the assault, swung her sword with precision. Each gust was cut down with a swift motion, the air itself parting as Granberia advanced toward Alma Elma.

Without missing a beat, Granberia charged forward, her blade moving in a deadly arc aimed at the succubus queen. But Alma Elma was already gone—vanished into thin air.

"Is that all you've got, Granberia?" Alma Elma's voice echoed from all sides as she floated just above her, her teasing smile audible even in the wind.

Granberia gritted her teeth, her eyes scanning the area. She had anticipated the move, but Alma Elma's speed made her seem like she was everywhere at once.

"You've got the speed," Granberia muttered under her breath. "But let's see if you can dodge that!" her blade burst into flames. 

"Oh no, Granberry…♪" Alma Elma smirked as she saw the dragon prepare her ultimate attack. "What should I do?"

Ah… I really like her… She is truly a blazing warrior.

"Here is my technique: Vaporizing Reb—"

But before she could unleash her technique, Alma Elma swiftly caressed her breasts through her armor, making the dragon whimper for a split second.

"Oh? You're quite sensitive Granberry…" Alma Elma smirked as she began to massage Alma Elma from behind, making the dragon lose her entire focus.

"Ah… Ah… Stop it! This is… Not how a battle… Should be fought…!" Granberia gritted her teeth between each moan, helpless from Alma Elma's touch. Her scales, usually so proud and impenetrable, seemed to shiver and quake under the succubus's skilled fingers.

"But you challenged the queen of succubi, right?" Alma Elma teased, her voice dropping to a whisper as she leaned in close to her ear. "You should be prepared for those kinds of..." She then slid her fingers down to her crotch and licked her ear, her hot breath sending shivers through Granberia's entire body. "...Attack." 

"Ah... Please stop!" Granberia whimpered, her body shaking with need.

The warrior's disgraceful moans of need echoed through the empty hallway as Alma Elma had her way with her, skillfully working every inch of her body until Granberia was nothing but a twitching, spent mess on the floor.

"Perhaps you will win against me next time…♪" Alma teased as she walked away. 

"This is so… Humiliating…" Granberia breathed heavily from the effects of Critical Ecstasy.

Ah… This was fun… Alma Elma sighed internally of contentment. The way that Dragon Girl acted pushed all her buttons and she really didn't hold back on her. 

The door to her room opened effortlessly as she stepped inside. A soft exhale escaped her lips as she collapsed onto the plush cushions of her bed, stretching out with a satisfied groan. The soft, moonlight filtering through the windows was peaceful, and for the first time that day, Alma Elma allowed herself a moment of calm.

But even in the quiet, a thought lingered at the back of her mind. 

"Why is it always so complicated…" Alma Elma sighed as the thoughts of her mother resurfaced in her mind. "Even after so long, I can't let go of it, huh…"

No matter how much she drowned herself in pleasure, or granting all of her wishes, this lingering doubt remained in her mind.

Her lips pressed together in a tight line as she gazed out the window, the distant moonlight casting a soft glow on the room. The calm of the night should have been comforting, but it only emphasized the aching silence inside her.

"I'm free," she murmured to herself, but even the words felt hollow in the quiet. Free to do what, though? Free to live only for herself, to indulge in whatever she pleased, but still… this . Still this constant pull toward something she couldn't escape.

She was not the succubus her mother wanted and she was not the martial artist she wanted. 

She had become nothing more than a soulless ideal carried by the wind, with no goals in mind anymore. 

Granberia reminded her of all of that. 

And yet, she couldn't let go of that sentiment, of that pride of being queen. Perhaps the last thing that attached her to her old mother. 

That same year, that thought resurfaced more than ever. Perhaps it was her daily spars with Granberia who brought back her old self. 

However one day, everything changed. An event that would surely bring her out of her shell, little by little. 

A certain hero who began his journey that same year, with a head full of dreams of coexistence.

"Hm? Someone's trying to traverse my storm…" she mused as she felt the change in the wind from there. 

"...Guess I should have a look…♪"

At least, for now… 

A lot of fun was heading its way.

And a long quest for coexistence begins

"SALLY!!!" 

The voice of Alma Elma echoed through the walls of the Monster Lord's castle. 

Thirty years had passed since she first asked Galla to teach her the basics of writing. While her day-to-day life hadn't shifted much in those decades, her reputation had grown to legendary proportions. Alma Elma, the Queen of Succubi, was now a name spoken with admiration among succubi. She was a symbol of boundless freedom, playful chaos, and unparalleled mischief.

Succubi across the world revered her as the epitome of their kind—bold, free-spirited, and unapologetically true to herself. To them, she wasn't just a queen; she was an ideal, a beacon of what a succubus could achieve if they dared to follow their desires without hesitation.

Not that any of this was true to her.

"Where is she hiding this time?" Alma Elma muttered as she stormed down the ornate corridor, her boots clicking against the marble floor.

She pushed open a door with dramatic flair, revealing a lounging Sally, casually sipping on a glass of wine.

"There you are!" Alma Elma exclaimed, crossing her arms and leaning against the doorframe.

Sally looked up, unbothered by the queen's sudden intrusion. "Oh? Did you receive my letter?"

"Damn right I did!" Alma Elma shot back, waving the crumpled parchment in her hand. "Why on earth did you register me for the Monster Lord's selection?!"

Sally shrugged nonchalantly, setting her glass down with a soft clink. "I thought you might enjoy a good fight. It's been ages since you last used those fists of yours, Your Majesty."

"Sally, we both know I'm not going to fight with violence. I'm the Queen of Succubi—it would be a disgrace for me to stoop to that level in a formal competition!"

Sally raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "Alright, then. The real reason?"

"Do enlighten me," Alma Elma drawled sarcastically.

"I think you'd make an excellent Monster Lord." Sally's tone shifted, her voice calm but firm.

The queen blinked, momentarily stunned. "…You're joking."

"I am," Sally nodded. "If there is someone who can change things up, it's you. I know how strong you are, and with a bit of surprise, you have a chance of winning."

For a moment, Alma Elma wondered if she'd completely lost her mind. If there was one thing she didn't want, it was another responsibility on her shoulders. Being a queen was already a pain while also having its perks, but Monster Lord? It was just inconceivable.

"You know what? Fine," Alma Elma said with a dazzling yet forced smile, her voice dripping with faux cheer. "You're absolutely right, Sally…♪ I'll participate. There. Happy now?"

Sally leaned back in her chair, an amused grin spreading across her face. "Oh, you don't really have a choice. You've already been enrolled."

"I could just… not show up."

Sally didn't miss a beat, her grin widening. "And let everyone down? Think of the scandal. The disappointment. The dramatic cries of, 'How could Alma Elma, Queen of Succubi, dare to abandon the chance to fight for the Monster Lord's title?'" She gestured theatrically with her wine glass. "Especially when everyone knows you are unmatched."

Alma Elma said nothing and instead left the room. If there was one thing true to all of this, it was that she wanted to see what the other candidates were capable of. 

Her thoughts drifted as she strolled down the corridor, wings tucked neatly behind her. She already knew the names of the notable competitors. Each one had a reputation that preceded them, and she couldn't help but wonder how her own skills would measure up.

Granberia, the dragon swordswoman, stood out immediately. She was said to have trained under Salamander, the spirit of fire, honing her blade to the pinnacle of mastery. Alma Elma smirked at the thought—she could almost feel the heat of Granberia's aura just imagining it.

Then there was Erubetie, the slime queen. A quiet, enigmatic figure who rarely showed herself, but her reason for joining was clear: she fought for her kind, to ensure their survival from human's pollution.

Tamamo, the nine-tailed kitsune, was another competitor Alma Elma had been curious about. Alma Elma had never spent much time around Tamamo, but the kitsune's power was legendary, her fluffy tails almost as famous as her strength. Alma Elma chuckled to herself. "She'll probably try to outwit everyone before using her full strength."

And then, there was Alice. A young yoma raised in the seclusion of Kitsune Village. Alma Elma already knew she'd be a force to reckon with—how could she not be, given her lineage as the next Monster Lord? Alma Elma's smirk softened into a grin. She was curious to see if the girl had inherited her family's strength... and if she had the resolve to use it.

As she reached her room, Alma Elma sighed, stretching her arms over her head. "This might be more fun than I thought…♪" she murmured, already plotting her strategy. 

Though a flicker of doubt remained. It felt as if she didn't belong in the ceremony in the first place. She had no reason to fight, after all.

Granberia wanted to test her strength, Erubetie was fighting for her kind, Tamamo probably to 

test Alice's strength, and Alice to take the throne.

Alma Elma had nothing. She was just enlisted by accident, and what she wanted was ridiculous compared to their determination. 

She felt like a disgrace compared to them.

"Still, I want to at least see Granberia," she muttered under her breath while looking at the parchment in her hand. "I want to see how strong she is."

That thought alone was enough to keep her moving forward. Maybe she didn't have a noble reason to fight. Maybe her participation was nothing more than a cosmic joke. But if she could witness their strength—if she could feel the thrill of the fight, even for a moment—it might all be worth it.

"I'm glad to see everyone is here," Tamamo's calm yet commanding voice broke the silence, drawing all eyes to her. She stood at the center of the room, her nine tails swaying gracefully behind her as she regarded the candidates assembled before her.

The room itself was grand and imposing, a throne room built specifically for this ceremony. Its high ceiling and towering columns made for a perfect battleground, one that had witnessed countless battles fought for the title. Only one monster would emerge victorious, earning the right to ascend the throne.

Alma Elma leaned casually against one of the ornate pillars, a playful smile tugging at her lips as she scanned the room. Alice stood with her arms crossed, exuding an air of confidence. Her piercing gaze swept over the group, but especially paused on Tamamo. She looked more worried about the kitsune rather than the rest.

Erubetie looked calm, yet she could feel a strong determination within her. 

Granberia sat cross-legged on the ground, her sword resting across her lap as she meditated. The sight made Alma Elma chuckle softly to herself. Although she looked cute like that.

"The rules are simple," Tamamo continued, noting that no one had exchanged a single word yet. "This is a battle royale. You are free to fight anyone you choose."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A battle royale, huh? Now this sounds interesting…♪"

Tamamo's gaze flicked to Alma Elma for a brief moment before continuing. "The only rule is this: no interference from anyone outside the competition. This is a test of your individual strength, strategy, and resolve. The last one standing will claim the throne."

Alice finally broke her silence. "Good, let's get started then."

Granberia's eyes opened slowly, and then she stood up. "I am ready."

Erubetie said nothing, her expression unreadable, though the faint ripples of her form betrayed her readiness.

Alma Elma stretched her arms, her smile widening. "Well, this should be fun. Let's see what everyone's got."

"At least one here is relaxed," Tamamo chuckled. "Then, let the ceremony begin."

The moment Tamamo's words echoed through the chamber, chaos erupted. The first few spells were launched with explosive force. Alma Elma immediately twisted midair, narrowly avoiding a talisman hurled by Tamamo that detonated on the ground, leaving a deep scorch mark and shaking the floor beneath her.

"Close one…♪" Alma Elma murmured, still grinning as she floated effortlessly above the fray.

Surprisingly, that was the only spell she received in the beginning. Granberia immediately launched an attack at Alice, which she dodged easily by casting ice magic on the floor. Erubetie also attacked Tamamo by trying to envelop her in slime.

She was left all alone, flying in the air without anyone even taking her seriously.

"Huh. They're not even taking me seriously," she muttered to herself, tilting her head as she watched the chaos below. "How rude…♪"

Still, she couldn't help but enjoy the spectacle. The sheer intensity of the battles unfolding before her was thrilling. She observed Granberia's raw power, Alice's calculated movement, Tamamo's clever maneuvers, and Erubetie's relentless adaptability.

They were all formidable monsters on their own. 

Alma Elma's playful smile wavered as she continued to observe. She couldn't ignore the sharp contrast between their intense focus and her own lack of purpose. Her gaze lingered on Granberia, who charged forward, flames roaring along her blade as she clashed fiercely with Erubetie.

That fiery glare—the unyielding determination burning in the dragon's eyes—sent a shiver down her spine.

"They're all so focused... so driven," Alma Elma muttered, her voice soft. Her playful demeanor faltered, replaced by something quieter, more uncertain.

It reminded her of her past—before she became queen, back in that small, quiet village where she was just another nameless succubus trying to find her place.

"I really don't belong here after all…" she sighed, her excitement dimming like a candle snuffed out. 

She hovered in silence, watching the others battle with purpose, while she remained an idle spectator, unsure if she had any right to be there at all.

But even as doubt clawed at her, Alma Elma couldn't remain passive forever. She let out a small sigh and decided, if nothing else, to test the waters.

Without a hint of enthusiasm, she lazily conjured a barrage of wind blades, sending them hurtling toward Granberia.

The dragon's reaction was immediate, her blazing sword flashing in arcs of fire as she slashed through the incoming blades one after another. 

Granberia's eyes darted upward, locking onto Alma Elma. For the first time, the queen of succubi felt the weight of that fiery gaze directed at her.

"So, you finally decided to join us," Granberia called, her voice steady and edged with amusement. She planted her sword into the ground, flames licking up its length as if daring Alma Elma to strike again. "About time you stopped floating around like a spectator."

Alma Elma's lips curled into a smile at the sight of the dragon's confidence. 

Oh, I like that…♪ she thought, feeling a flicker of interest return.

But even though that challenge was endearing, Alma Elma didn't want to try anymore. The fire in her heart was extinguished, and she landed on the marble floor with her arms raised. 

"I give up!" she called out, the words almost foreign to her own ears.

Without waiting for any reaction or approval, she turned on her heel and walked toward the door. Her steps echoed softly in the tense silence that followed her declaration. The others, still deep in their battles, barely took notice of her exit.

Granberia, however, watched her leave, a puzzled frown creasing her brow as Alma Elma disappeared beyond the door. But the succubus queen didn't care anymore.

Her only thought as she left was that she no longer felt like playing this game.

"And that's how I gave up…♪" she declared, leaning back casually against the doorframe with a carefree smile.

Galla, looking exhausted, sighed heavily. "Can you leave, please? My wife is going to kill me if she sees you…"

"Aww… Little Galla is scared?" Alma Elma smirked.

"No, but it's been years since we've last seen each other. You could at least warn me before dropping in like this," Galla muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Oh, come on," she teased, waving a hand dismissively. "What's a little surprise visit between old friends? Besides, it's not like your wife is going to care that much—right?"

"Anyway, I was just passing by to take some paper from you, bye!" 

"Wha—?" Galla looked at his desk too late to see she had already snatched his high-quality paper. "Come back here you damn flying obscenity!" he shot back with his fist raised. 

Alma Elma cackled, her wings flapping as she took off into the air, holding the stolen paper triumphantly. "See you around, Galla!" she called, her voice lilting with mischief as she flew out of the room, leaving him seething in her wake.

Galla stood there for a moment, fist still raised, before he sighed and slumped into his chair. "She's impossible..."

She took flight and left, leaving Galla alone. Once back inside her room in the castle, Alma Elma placed the paper scroll on a nearby table and stretched her arms lazily. Tonight, she decided, she would write—though exactly what, she wasn't sure yet.

But before she could get to it, a knock on the door interrupted her.

Without waiting for an invitation, the young yoma—Alice—slithered into the room. Her eyes scanned the space with cautious curiosity before they locked onto Alma Elma. She was every bit the stern figure Alma Elma had expected, but the gleam in her eyes hinted at something more beneath the surface.

"So, you're Alma Elma," Alice said, her tone serious.

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, amused. "Oh? Does that mean you won?" She leaned back casually in her chair, her lips curling into a playful smirk. "Congratulations, Monster Lord."

Alice gave a small nod, her expression still unreadable. "Thank you." She tilted her head slightly, her gaze narrowing just enough to show her curiosity. "But why did you leave early? We didn't even have the chance to fight each other."

"I just didn't feel like it in the end…♪" she said with a teasing smile, as though the thought of engaging in the battle had become tiresome. "It didn't seem worth it."

"I don't understand, but fine. I didn't expect much from the queen of succubi anyway," Alice sighed.

"Ouch, you're hurting me, Your Majesty…♪" Alma Elma winced with mock pain.

Alice crossed her arms, her gaze unwavering. "I don't have time for games," she replied, her voice firm. "I came to speak with you about something important."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? And what's that?"

Alice hesitated for a moment, her eyes briefly darting to the side as if weighing her words carefully. "I need your strength," she said, her voice steady. "Or at least I offer you a position as one of my knights."

Alma Elma raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "A knight? You do realize I don't play by the same rules as everyone else, right?"

Alice nodded. "I know. But that's precisely why I need someone like you. You're one of the few who fought for the throne, even if you surrendered early. That makes you deserving of at least a bit of respect, doesn't it?"

Alma Elma leaned back in her chair, mulling over Alice's words. "You think you can earn my respect just by offering me a title?"

"I…" Alice was at a loss for words. She thought for a long moment before Alma Elma interrupted her with a chuckle.

"I already respect you, Monster Lord," Alma Elma winked. "I will do as I say, just like I did with your mother."

"I heard from Tamamo that you weren't listening clearly to her orders."

"I was just doing things my own way, that's it…♪"

Alice exhaled sharply, clearly growing frustrated but not showing it. "Fine," she said with a resigned sigh, clearly having run out of patience. "Then it's official. You are my Heavenly Knight of the Wind."

Alma Elma's smile widened. "Oh, I like that. It has a nice ring to it."

Alice, already turning toward the door, glanced back over her shoulder. "My first decree is that monsters have now the right to self-defense. No more of this senseless slaughter of our kind."

"Okay…♪"

She gazed at Alice as she slithered out. She had heard of the tragic evenement of her mother's death from Sally, so she knew the little Alice wouldn't be as soft as her mother. 

"I guess I have to put in some work, huh…" Alma Elma sighed. An idea began to form in her mind, one that was far more efficient than simply wandering the Ilias Continent and hunting down heroes. It was something she'd thought of before, but the other Monster Lords had always shut it down.

It was still something that could keep her mind occupied after all. She didn't need to think, she didn't want to think anymore. 

So she flew to Iliasport and began forming a tempest there to avoid heroes that came from this continent to traverse the sea and join Sentora.

Once done, she flew back to the castle to enjoy some time alone, only to be again interrupted by someone else. 

"Oh, if it isn't Granberry…♪"

The proud dragon swordswoman stood at the entrance, her stance firm and dignified, her eyes filled with that familiar challenge. Alma Elma's heart fluttered with excitement at the prospect of a good distraction. After all, it had been far too long since she had faced someone with a bit of fire in them.

Granberia's voice was steady and strong as she spoke, her usual air of confidence undeterred. "I challenge you, Queen of Succubi, to a duel."

Alma Elma smirked, her wings twitching slightly. "Oh? You're challenging me? Okay…♪"

With a blur, Alma Elma found herself behind the dragon but Granberia unsheathed her sword to strike her. The succubus Queen dodged narrowingly and began to circle around the swordsman.

"I see you are fast," Granberia muttered as she tried to keep up with the succubus queen. "Why didn't you fight back in the ceremony?"

Alma Elma's laugh rang out like a sweet melody in the air. "I had seen everything I needed to…♪"

Before Granberia could react, Alma Elma snapped her fingers, and gusts of wind materialized from thin air, swirling around the dragon swordsman like a tempest. The powerful winds whipped around her, but Granberia, unmoved by the assault, swung her sword with precision. Each gust was cut down with a swift motion, the air itself parting as Granberia advanced toward Alma Elma.

Without missing a beat, Granberia charged forward, her blade moving in a deadly arc aimed at the succubus queen. But Alma Elma was already gone—vanished into thin air.

"Is that all you've got, Granberia?" Alma Elma's voice echoed from all sides as she floated just above her, her teasing smile audible even in the wind.

Granberia gritted her teeth, her eyes scanning the area. She had anticipated the move, but Alma Elma's speed made her seem like she was everywhere at once.

"You've got the speed," Granberia muttered under her breath. "But let's see if you can dodge that!" her blade burst into flames. 

"Oh no, Granberry…♪" Alma Elma smirked as she saw the dragon prepare her ultimate attack. "What should I do?"

Ah… I really like her… She is truly a blazing warrior.

"Here is my technique: Vaporizing Reb—"

But before she could unleash her technique, Alma Elma swiftly caressed her breasts through her armor, making the dragon whimper for a split second.

"Oh? You're quite sensitive Granberry…" Alma Elma smirked as she began to massage Alma Elma from behind, making the dragon lose her entire focus.

"Ah… Ah… Stop it! This is… Not how a battle… Should be fought…!" Granberia gritted her teeth between each moan, helpless from Alma Elma's touch. Her scales, usually so proud and impenetrable, seemed to shiver and quake under the succubus's skilled fingers.

"But you challenged the queen of succubi, right?" Alma Elma teased, her voice dropping to a whisper as she leaned in close to her ear. "You should be prepared for those kinds of..." She then slid her fingers down to her crotch and licked her ear, her hot breath sending shivers through Granberia's entire body. "...Attack." 

"Ah... Please stop!" Granberia whimpered, her body shaking with need.

The warrior's disgraceful moans of need echoed through the empty hallway as Alma Elma had her way with her, skillfully working every inch of her body until Granberia was nothing but a twitching, spent mess on the floor.

"Perhaps you will win against me next time…♪" Alma teased as she walked away. 

"This is so… Humiliating…" Granberia breathed heavily from the effects of Critical Ecstasy.

Ah… This was fun… Alma Elma sighed internally of contentment. The way that Dragon Girl acted pushed all her buttons and she really didn't hold back on her. 

The door to her room opened effortlessly as she stepped inside. A soft exhale escaped her lips as she collapsed onto the plush cushions of her bed, stretching out with a satisfied groan. The soft, moonlight filtering through the windows was peaceful, and for the first time that day, Alma Elma allowed herself a moment of calm.

But even in the quiet, a thought lingered at the back of her mind. 

"Why is it always so complicated…" Alma Elma sighed as the thoughts of her mother resurfaced in her mind. "Even after so long, I can't let go of it, huh…"

No matter how much she drowned herself in pleasure, or granting all of her wishes, this lingering doubt remained in her mind.

Her lips pressed together in a tight line as she gazed out the window, the distant moonlight casting a soft glow on the room. The calm of the night should have been comforting, but it only emphasized the aching silence inside her.

"I'm free," she murmured to herself, but even the words felt hollow in the quiet. Free to do what, though? Free to live only for herself, to indulge in whatever she pleased, but still… this . Still this constant pull toward something she couldn't escape.

She was not the succubus her mother wanted and she was not the martial artist she wanted. 

She had become nothing more than a soulless ideal carried by the wind, with no goals in mind anymore. 

Granberia reminded her of all of that. 

And yet, she couldn't let go of that sentiment, of that pride of being queen. Perhaps the last thing that attached her to her old mother. 

That same year, that thought resurfaced more than ever. Perhaps it was her daily spars with Granberia who brought back her old self. 

However one day, everything changed. An event that would surely bring her out of her shell, little by little. 

A certain hero who began his journey that same year, with a head full of dreams of coexistence.

"Hm? Someone's trying to traverse my storm…" she mused as she felt the change in the wind from there. 

"...Guess I should have a look…♪"

At least, for now… 

A lot of fun was heading its way.

A quest for coexistence begins.