THDK Chapter 6

Chapter 6: I’ll Work Hard on My Magic Training! (Part 2)

I’ve come to realize that demons are actually really kind people. Humans spread rumors that demons are evil, but I feel like those are all baseless lies.

A little before I was abandoned in the forest, there were days when I couldn’t eat for several days. While wandering the streets looking for food, a luxurious carriage stopped in front of me, and I was drawn toward it.

A boy dressed in expensive clothes stepped out, and I asked him if he could spare some food. Maybe it was wrong of me to ask a stranger like that, but when he saw me in my ragged clothes, he sneered at me.

“Who do you think I am? Oh, of course, a beggar like you wouldn’t know. I have nothing for someone as filthy as you. Get lost.”

He kicked me to the ground, laughed, and walked away. Remembering that moment makes my heart ache, and I feel so sad. But Nox didn’t insult me when he saw me in my ragged state. He helped me and even hugged me. That’s why I’ve come to really love demons.

“Listen up. Magic is created by releasing the magical energy that overflows from within your body. If the magic inside you is ten, you only need to use a little bit of it—about two.”

“It’s hard, but I think I kind of get it!”

“Alright, let’s practice keeping magic in your palm. Watch and copy me.”

Zain created a small flame in his palm. The flame stayed there, flickering brightly without growing or disappearing. I tried to mimic him and created a flame too, but I couldn’t maintain its shape like Zain could. I realized that while I can use magic, controlling it is a whole different story.

“Don’t rush. Slowly channel the magic.”

“L-Like this?”

“Yeah. Now, try stopping it there.”

“Okay…”

I did as he said and stopped the flow of magic into the flame. The flame maintained its size and began to flicker steadily. I was so happy that I couldn’t help but smile. But in that moment of distraction, the magic I was holding back burst out all at once.

“Run!”

I shouted instinctively. The flame, now charged with magic, soared upward and threatened to engulf the room. But then, a hand reached out from behind me and pressed against the raging flame. A dark purple magic absorbed the fire, slowly extinguishing it. My body, having lost more than half of its magic, went limp, but strong arms caught me.

“Zain, what are you doing?”

“Just teaching him how to control his magic.”

I turned toward the familiar voice and was surprised to see Nox’s face right in front of me. No one seemed hurt, and I felt relieved.

“Thank you for putting out the fire. I’m sorry…”

“This much isn’t a problem. Zain shares some of the responsibility too.”

Nox glanced at Zain, who shrugged and looked away, muttering some excuses under his breath. Nox continued to glare at him.

“I could’ve handled that much, you know. You’re just too fast, Your Majesty.”

“Excuses are unbecoming.”

“You’re a demon! Wait, aren’t you supposed to be handling official duties? Why are you here?”

In response, Nox pulled something out of the bag he was carrying. Through the gaps in the cloth wrapping it, I caught glimpses of a silver blade that gleamed in the sunlight, demanding attention.

“I brought this.”

“You’re making me deal with this?! Let go! Sol, help me out here!”

“Oreole!”

I took it and hugged it tightly, confirming its presence. When I unwrapped the cloth, I could hear Oreole’s voice clearly. He was still complaining about Nox, but I was so relieved and happy that his words barely registered.

“Thank you, Nox. You’re really kind.”

“…You think I’m kind?”

Nox furrowed his brows as he looked at me, smiling brightly. He’s so kind, handles magic perfectly, and is an amazing person, yet he doesn’t seem to realize it. Holding Oreole in one hand, I reached out and touched Nox’s hand. I hoped he could feel how happy I was.

“Is it really okay to give that to him?”

“It’s fine.”

Zain rested his cheek on his hand and gave Nox a look of disbelief, but Nox didn’t seem to care. Oreole said he was tired and went quiet, and I was completely drained from using up most of my magic. Noticing this, Nox sat down in a chair, still holding me.

“The strongest Demon King in history holding a kid like this is way too rare.”

“Zain, be quiet for a bit.”

“You’re so harsh on me!”

The two of them seemed really close. You could tell they’d been together for years. I want to become good friends with everyone too. My dream is to invite friends over, share cake, and enjoy each other’s company.

“You want to learn magic?”

“Yeah! I want to be able to use it as well as you, Nox.”

“What will you use that power for?”

His crimson eyes bore into me, as if seeing right through me. I met his gaze without flinching and smiled back.

“I want to create a world where everyone can live with a smile!”

I always wish that fewer people have to go through painful experiences like me and my brother. If my power can help with that, I don’t want to stop trying. The thought of someone living in fear that they might die tomorrow makes me feel so sad and helpless.

Even though I’m human, I was born with magic. I believe there’s a reason for that. So, I want to use this power to protect everyone. That’s why I want to become stronger.

“I see.”

Nox smiled softly as he patted my head, and I couldn’t look away. He seemed genuinely relieved and happy. I still don’t know why Nox brought me here, but every time I see his smile, I feel so glad. For now, it’s okay if I don’t know the reason.

“Zain, teach Sol magic.”

“You sure?”

“It’s fine. Just don’t push him too hard.”

“Got it, got it. You’re so overprotective~”

“Keep talking, and I’ll cut your pay.”

“That’s way too harsh!”

Their banter was so funny that I couldn’t help but laugh.

“Zain, I’m counting on you.”

I held out my hand, and Zain shook it firmly. I truly want to become a great mage like them someday and gain the power to protect what’s important to me.