"That is why... I have concluded that it is unwise to keep resorting to strategies and trickery. It would be a waste of time and effort."
That was the last thing anyone expected Zenkiel to say.
The Demon Lord who came before him was one who believed in impeccable planning and flawless strategy.
Zenkiel inherited his previous master's will, allowing him to be moderately cautious but also decisive in everything.
To have been capable of throwing aside the brilliant arts of war that his master entrusted to him was something no one saw coming.
But, the Demon Lord of Vert was no fool. His line of reasoning was completely justified.
"We should simply crush them with our numbers. That is the only way we can swiftly ensure victory."
The reason why the Demons had chosen to resort to strategies was so they could retain a good number of their forces, even after engaging in warfare with the Humans and Elves.
After all, the Fairies, Therianthropes, and Dwarves were still enemies to extinguish. However, with the current state of affairs, it was simply better to go all-out on the enemy.
"I realize that we do not have enough battle strength to challenge both continents—especially given their level of power—which is why I propose dealing with one Kingdom first, then proceeding to the next."
That way, victory was guaranteed, and the Demons would also have another stronghold to utilize.
"I seem You make a fair argument. Indeed, from the fact that the humans are capable of making such a devastating weapon—as Lydia said—as well as the sights we have all witnessed, it's safe to say that they have been hiding their strengths." Abellion spoke in a low undertone.
What didn't make sense was why they decided to reveal their hand. Wouldn't it have been better if the Demons underestimated them?
"Apparently, the mastermind in question also foresaw that I would make this move. He made preparations to checkmate me in this affair." Zenkiel stated, causing everyone to dread the existence of the person whom their respectable Demon Lord spoke of.
"Just how many steps can he think ahead? I have no idea..."
Not many could detect it, but the likes of Lydia instantly noticed traces of admiration in Zenkiel's tone.
He had something akin to a deep respect for the enemy who was smart enough to surpass him.
"Hmm. That puts us in a tight condition. But, how do you know this, Zenkiel?"
The Demon Lord smiled in relief, happy that he had come out of the thick forest of despair. If he played his cards right now, he could redeem himself.
"A member of the Cult is among the Delegates sent for the Alliance. In essence, he is on the same team as the mastermind."
"What? Really?"
"Yes. He was the one who brought me the intel. Apparently, he deciphered our moves and is also planning another one to checkmate us."
"What's the identity of that member?" Abellion rubbed his chin more intensity at this point.
"His name is Damien Lawcroft, Tenth Seat of the Cult. He was born and bred in the Eastern Kingdom, and he is an integral part of the Nobility there. So far, he had avoided all forms of suspicion, and also has the full support and trust of the Crown Prince."
Abellion nodded slightly, satisfied by the conditions the man fulfilled.
"I was a bit skeptical that such a mastermind wouldn't have discovered the existence of a mole on his team, but the man's portfolio protects him from suspicion."
Besides, the mastermind must have also been more focused on the threat of the Demon Invasion that he wasn't completely searching for moles.
'It's at times like this that a person relies most on comrades. I understand that he'll be more focused on the external than the internal...' Abellion gave a thought as he smiled wryly.
"So, this member told you of his plans, right?"
"Yes, my King. He knew we would be concentrating our Forces on a single Kingdom first. He also guessed rightly that I would choose to attack the Elves first."
The level of reasoning behind the Mastermind's logic and introspection was enough to make Zenkiel wonder if the opponent could read his mind.
"I see. While I don't like owning the Cult favors, they've done us a great favor for this piece of Intel." The Demon King murmured.
"Indeed. This turns the tables around for good. If we utilize the assumption made by their Alliance to our favor, we should be able to catch them off guard."
The other Demon Lords joined their Ruler to nod in agreement to Zenkiel's sublime words.
"We will attack the Eastern Kingdom first, then... and we will decimate their continent beyond recovery." Abellion smiled wickedly.
And so, while the Allied enemies would be expecting an attack on the Elf Kingdom, concentrating their Forces on that end of the world, the Demon Horde would catch them completely off guard.
'Perfect.' Abellion's mind sparked with excitement.
"How long will it take for our army to be mobilized for the Eastern Kingdom?"
His words contained resolve, as well as a malevolent urge to tear down an entire civilization.
"I-if we consider the distance between their continent and our Army Base, it'll take longer than usual. I'd say six days." Zenkiel murmured.
It had been four days since the first invasion on the respective Borders of their enemies began.
Within Six days, if they mobilized their army and rallied for battle, it would be ten days. While it was awfully short for a war, considering the last one lasted for years, Abellion preferred things this way.
"We'll crush the Humans first... and then we will also decimate the Elves."
"I also heard that he's planning on involving the Fairies, Beastfolk, and Dwarves into the Alliance. Knowing him, it's possible that he might succeed."
Abellion growled when he heard this. It would be bad if all the forces of the world were to descend upon the Demons.
