CH 49

C49: SHINZEN-SHIKI

A being appeared right in front of us, a being that clearly transcends that of humankind; a god.

He assumes the figure of a human, except he’s gigantic in size, and has a beard so long that it reaches the ground.

Is this Hades, the god of the demon race?

Actually, why is a god here with us?

“…I must have gone overboard and summoned Hades Himself.”

You did this, Sensei?!

“I only intended to offer a prayer for turning the area into a sanctuary fit to host a wedding ceremony. I didn’t know it would turn into a god-summoning ritual by using my powers as the Lifeless King, hoho…”

This isn’t the time to act carefree, Sensei!

You just summoned a god, you know?! A god!!!

If this were a manga or a game, the descent of an evil god should be prevented by the MC’s sidekick with all their might! Is it really okay to let things pass this easily?!

“…You materialized me to this plane, huh? This hasn’t happened in a long time.” He said in a calm and dignified voice.

?!

…Hades spoke?

“When was the last time… ah, yes. I think it was during the time I annihilated the destruction angels released by Zeus’ foolish creations. For what purpose is it this time? Has his children finally waged an Armageddon?”

I guess he’s asking about as he faces our way.

What should we do?!

Should we just come up with a believable lie and have him leave immediately?!

“…No.”

Demon King Zedan stepped forward before I could even say anything.

“The conflict with the human race continues to be in a state of ebb and flow. It’s a situation where you can’t let your guard down. However, it’s nothing you need to concern yourself with.”

“Excellent.”

Hades nodded.

“Then, why did you call me? You who kneels before me, introduce yourself.”

“With all due respect, I am Demon King Zedan, child of Hades, currently serving the demon race as their ruler.”

Wow, the Demon King is holding a conversation with a god!

Your average human wouldn’t even be able to breathe under the overwhelming presence of a god, let alone talk to them.

Batemy and Belena on the other hand, look like they’re about to wet themselves!!!

“On this occasion, I have asked for a woman’s hand in marriage. The only woman whom I desire from the bottom of my heart, and whom I want to spend the rest of my life with.”

“L-Lord Zedan?!”

Miss Astres was beet-red from the Demon King’s frankness.

“In line with this, we planned to conduct a wedding ceremony and wished to be granted god’s blessings, however, we ended up calling his Mightiness by mistake.”

“The undead king…and one who has already lived for over a thousand years, huh? Then it’s only obvious that it would reach the gods.”

Sensei wouldn’t stop bowing his head to apologize.

Even an undead king gets the jitters when he’s facing a god, huh?

“Very well. You are worthy of my blessings as the king of the demon race. However, unlike Zeus and Poseidon, I am a god who chose to have one wife. If you are to receive my blessings, you shall follow the same.”

“I could ask for nothing better! Being paired with Astres alone for the rest of my life is more than enough! I have no need for a concubine or a mistress.”

“Well said. Demon King Zedan and Demon Queen Astres, you shall receive the blessings of the earth’s husband.”

The couple was enveloped by warm light emanating from Hades’ palm.

“That concludes the ceremony. I shall return to my realm. I wish the best to you mortals who walk on this earth.”

As he said that, Hades vanished like the fog.

The air around us has also returned to normal.

“He was surprisingly nice…”

He even gave them his blessings like it was nothing.

I thought he’d be more of an evil god considering he’s called God of the Underworld, but he’s actually pretty normal.

Those couples who directly received their blessings from a god are said to acquire the utmost divine protection.

“Blessings of Mother Goddess’s Husband” is said to be the highest form of divine protection for couples, a blessing so rare, it’s only granted once every several hundred years.

One can easily confirm it by using magic that can look at a couple’s parameters. On top of that, they are also blessed with a sound health and safe delivery and whoever tries to forcibly sabotage their relationship will be met with divine punishment.

There’s no better proof of their love that they can show to their demon brethren than this.

“Lord Saint, we truly are at a loss for words of gratitude.”

The now-united demon couple join their hands together to express their gratitude.

“Thanks to you, my dream of marrying Astres that I almost gave up on came true. I will never forget this favor for the rest of my life.”

Miss Astres, now Demon Queen, bowed her head with non-stop tears running down her face.

“Oh, no, no. I didn’t do anything in particular. Sensei should receive the credit for summoning the god by mere chance!”

“I’ll be more careful with the prayer ceremonies next time,” said Sensei as he let out a sigh.

“…But, if you received the utmost divine protection, that means the holy sword I restored won’t be of use anymore.”

“That is not true at all! Having another holy sword with us will surely help in winning over our people’s sympathy!”

“I swear to protect the peace of our nation with our swords, Sechsweiss and Einrot!”

I guess we can say that the future of the demon race is in safe hands. I’m not sure how that would fare for the human race, though.

So, what are they going to do now?

“Naturally, Astres and I will return together to our homeland and introduce her as the Demon Queen to the whole nation.”

Yep, that’s probably for the best.

“Please expose and purge those lot who planned this series of events as well. We don’t want to be involved in trouble over and over again.”

“I can also burn down their place if needed.”

Platy and Veil also gave remarks in their own way.

The officially married couple are going back to their homeland, in other words, the demon capital, huh? That seems like the most suitable place to build their love nest.

I wish them the best on their new life together.

“…No.”

Just then, Miss Astres said something unexpected.

“If permitted, I’d like to stay here for a little longer.”