THDK Chapter 2

Chapter 2: I Got My Own Room in the Demon King’s Castle! (Part 1)

When I opened my eyes, I realized I had been instantly transported to a dazzling mansion. Sunlight streamed through large windows, and despite the black-dominated interior, the castle felt bright and warm.

Nox, standing beside me, began walking while still holding my hand. He matched his pace to mine, walking slowly, which made me feel both ticklish and happy.

“If I keep matching your pace, the sun will set before we get there.”

After walking together for a while, Nox must have decided it was taking too long, because he scooped me up into his arms. When he told me to hold on, I wrapped my arms around his neck and pressed close. This was the first time I had ever been so close to someone, and it left me feeling a little flustered. My parents had never hugged me or spoken to me kindly.

“Where’s Oreole?”

“I left him in the forest.”

“He’s my friend…”

“…I’ll get someone to look for him.”

“Really? Thank you.”

Oreole tried to protect me, but he might be angry because I didn’t listen to him. If we meet again, I’ll have to apologize properly.

Without much conversation, I was quietly carried to a room that had only the bare minimum of furniture. Even so, it was more luxurious than the viscount’s mansion, and it was more than enough for an adult to live in. As they set me down and I began to check the room, I was told that I was free to use the things in the room.

“Is it okay?”

“Yeah. But, don’t leave the room unless you have permission.”

“Okay. I understand.”

It’s only natural to need permission to leave the room, so I nodded obediently. When I lived in the viscount’s mansion, I also needed permission to leave. If I went outside without it, it wouldn’t just result in anger—it would be much worse.

“You’re quite obedient.”

“Isn’t it normal to need permission? Also, being allowed to stay in such a wonderful place… I’m really grateful and happy just for that!”

When I gave him a big smile, Nox raised an eyebrow slightly. When I asked him what was wrong, he said it was nothing.

“Really, thank you.”

“Do you understand your position?”

“Position? …Uh, a slave? Or, a servant?”

“That’s not what I meant. And neither of those are correct… It’s clear you don’t understand anything. Anyway, just stay quiet.”

With a deep sigh, Nox left the room. Left alone in an unfamiliar place, I felt a little anxious and lonely. But I swallowed those feelings and sat quietly in the chair, just as I was told.