Ryuji came to the arena early.
Alone, bathing in the pitch-black silence while sitting on a cold stone bench.
His eyes closed, surrounded by rusted, broken and useless weapons. Swords, spears and various marks in the holding cells and waiting rooms, his breath calm and still while dried blood stained the floors.
'I am the future Demon King—me staying here will cause trouble for Alan and those I have grown to care for. Saki now works as a maid for Alan. Along with three other beastkin that Alan helped me rescue, they learn writing, reading and various skills from Kathryn and the others.'
A faded figure floated above him, golden eyes shimmering and filled with intellect beyond her usual self.
Sariel knew of Ryuji's feelings and his current dilemma.
'The plan that Alan made is far too naive. Well, he is a hero—I can't blame him. Or does he just hate the idea of parting ways with me and Liana?'