This is all his fault! Tiana belted at the top of her lungs. 

If he wasn’t such a loser, I’d be Demon Lord by now! I mean, he is the weakest man I’ve ever met in my life! And what was that about his Lord? Saving the world through love? How pathetic! At this point, I’d have a better chance of defeating the King of the North all by myself.

You can defeat the King of the North? A bright-eyed demon child looked up at her. 

What can’t I do! Tiana chorted with pride. She had spent the last hour in Vastian, the town beyond the castle walls, complaining to anyone who would listen. 

The Demon Lord had said it used to be a bustling metropolis, a crossroads for merchants traveling through the Demon Realm. Many wealthy humans, monsters, and demons called this place home before the Human Kings trade embargo. Since then, vibrant markets overflowing with exotic goods and laughter have been replaced with greed and shadows of the past. 

I swear on my life, Tiana said. Fire burned in her eyes. I will defeat the King! The little girl applauded. This was the most exciting thing she’d seen all day. 

But first… Tiana said. Do you know somewhere I can get a snack?

The little girl led Tiana down a muddy alleyway to the town’s marketplace. Dust filled the air, kicked up from unusually high foot traffic. Orcs, goblins, and demons all swarmed around one stall. The little girl eyed it precariously.

Mama’s Shop

The shop overflowed with delicious baked-goods and healing potions. The little girl pointed out a single croissant which restored HP. Following the magical scent of flour and butter to the front of the stall, Tiana stopped just shy of the counter. When did her mouth start watering? 

I demand three croissants, slave! 

The merchant, a middle-aged woman, stared at them with pursed lips. Then with a merciless wave, she shooed Tiana away like a field rat. 

Was I just… ignored? Tiana stammered in shock. 

In her eighteen years of life, Tiana had never been denied a single request from anyone but the Demon Lord himself. It was only natural that the daughter of the most powerful demon should receive the best of the best – the best clothing, the best cuisine, the best musicians and servants. Whatever she desired, she got without ever having to leave the castle.

Who do you think you are! Tiana said. 

A filthy demon worker should be honored to breathe the same air, let alone serve her! She was royalty, a goddess among peasants. How dare this baker defy her. 

It’s okay, Miss. The little girl tugged on her sleeve. I’m poor too. Let’s just ask for scraps.

Poor? Tiana had never heard that word used in reference to herself. Did she look… poor? Quickly, she found her reflection–muddy-face, hair a tangled mess, and a ripped designer dress. A wave of disgust washed over her. A princess was to be the very embodiment of grace, intellect, and beauty. And she looked no better than the filthy little girl. 

Attention! I am Princess Tiana of Vastian, daughter of the Demon Lord. I may not look it, but I… 

You? The demons and monsters erupted in uncontrollable, side-splitting laughter. 

Everyone knows the Princess never leaves the castle! One goblin patron said. And even if she did, there’s no way she’d look like… you.

S--Silence! Tiana said. As the Princess–

I don’t care if you’re the Demon Lord himself, pay or get out!

Tiana’s face turned bright red. To demand payment from a princess in her own kingdom–ridiculous! They should be begging to help her! It was her right to be served! With a surge of adrenaline, she snatched a warm loaf of bread from the stall and fled with the child.

Thief! The merchant cried out after Tiana. 

Twisting and turning down the dirt-covered alleyways, Tiana finally found refuge behind a crumbling ledge. The shouts of the shopkeeper slowly faded behind her till all she could hear was her heart. But as she looked down for the food, a wave of despair washed over her. 

The little girl had eaten all of the food. With a mischievous grin, the girl scurried off, leaving Tiana all alone. Tiana wasn’t one to cry, but suddenly she felt tears begin to form in the corners of her eyes.

Why won’t anyone help me… Tiana said.

I can help you, princess. An answer came. Tiana turned to see a shadowy figure with weak shoulders and thinning black hair approach her from behind. It was the first demon to address her by that title. Wiping her eyes, Tiana listened to the demon’s proposal.

So I just throw these dice, and I can make money? Tiana said.

Yes, princess. The demon reassured her with a warm smile. In gambling, everyone wins!

Tiana beamed with joy! She had never gambled before, but how hard could it be? All she had to do was wager a few pieces of jewelry and she’d be rich again. Maybe this place wasn’t as bad as she originally thought.