Read Demon King Of Liberation :: Chapter 14- finally home

Chapter 14- finally home

The duo hurried out of the ley lines.

"Leo, let's hurry to the tavern. Stark will be able to help us," said Ryan, his breath panting and his voice tired.

"Sure, Ryan, let's do that," replied Leo. His tunic, soaked in a mixture of blood and sweat, clung to him as he ran despite his shaking legs — the aftermath of their earlier struggle.

"Leo, during the fight... why did that abomination lose its track just before the crack?" asked Ryan, curiosity rising.

Panting, Leo replied, "The Orizon herb you threw away as waste — that's what kept us safe in the forest."

Grasping a breath, he continued, "Almost no beast comes near its smoke."

"Ooh... I see," Ryan said, his doubts cleared.

Both continued sprinting toward the tavern.

---

After a long, exhausting run, the duo reached the tavern entrance. Stark, having finished his day’s work, was preparing to close up. As he moved to shut the door, he noticed — through the narrow creak — a figure he saw daily, very familiar… only this time, that figure was covered in blood.

Stark's body trembled with shock.

He swung the door open — it moved so fast it nearly unhinged itself. The broom in his hand clattered to the floor. His massive figure dashed toward the duo like a father seeing his long-lost sons — only to find their lives hanging by a thread.

Ryan, never more relieved, embraced the giant man.

Leo’s body, having endured a tremendous toll that day, finally gave in. His legs gave out — he knelt to the ground and lost consciousness.

Before he could hit the floor, Stark’s strong arms caught him. Without hesitation, he carried them both inside, placing the fainted boys on the bed.

---

Despite their bravery, the two were just kids who had escaped death by a hair’s breadth. Their bodies had finally surrendered.

A short while later, Leo opened his eyes slowly. Through blurred vision, he saw a familiar giant figure. The old man Stark — despite his towering build — had tears in his eyes. He gently embraced Leo.

After a long time, Leo felt warmth again. No words were spoken. None were needed. Their actions alone were enough. Both were simply glad to be alive.

Regaining his senses, Leo whispered, "Sir... it’s not the time."

Pushing Stark gently aside, he stood up. "We need to hurry, sir," he said, eyes filled with resolve.

Sensing the weight behind Leo’s words, the old guard captain of the Western Shield asked, "Explain. What happened?"

Leo reported all that had transpired — and what was at stake.

Stark stood, firm and focused. "Leo, you did a great job. Now let the adults take care of the rest."

Leo, with determined eyes, replied, "Let me come."

Stark smiled. "Let’s go then, brave young man. To the Lord’s quarters. The knights must be alerted."

---

They prepared to leave. Meanwhile, Ryan stirred awake.

"Ryan, I’ve explained everything to Stark. Get ready. We leave in five minutes."

"Understood," Ryan replied, without a hint of doubt in his eyes.

After final preparations, the group hurried to the castle.

They stood before the massive golden gates of the Chancellor’s Mansion. The gates glistened in the sunlight, guarded by two figures clad in golden armor. Through the grand opening, a vast castle of pure gold shimmered in the distance. A magnificent garden sprawled ahead — its bushes shaped into the form of the King.

Everything screamed luxury.

Seeing this, Leo couldn’t help but think:

> "All this... at the price of what?"

The trio moved toward the guards.

---

What will happen in the palace? How will it turn out? Will the greedy demon star help them? What of the people?