Chapter 10: Devit's Path to the Kingdom
The first light of dawn slipped through the curtains, painting my room in a soft golden glow.
I slowly opened my eyes, feeling the warmth of the sun spread across my face.
The children and the elves were still asleep — their peaceful faces reminded me of what I was fighting for.
They were my family. My reason to keep going.
But the world outside… it was far from peaceful.
Yago and the demons like him were still out there, waiting for the right moment to strike.
Even though my power had grown, it was not enough. Not yet.
System: New quest available. Travel to the Royal Kingdom and speak with the Queen.
> "What? The Queen wants to see me?" I muttered in surprise.
The system's message caught me off guard — but it also fit my plan perfectly.
If I went to the capital, I could stop the rumors spreading about me before they caused trouble.
I quietly prepared breakfast while the elves helped set the table.
The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the house.
> "Dad, where are you going today?" my little daughter asked, rubbing her sleepy eyes.
> "To the kingdom," I said gently. "But don't worry, I'll be back soon. Stay here with the elves."
One of the elf leaders stepped forward.
> "Devit, we owe you so much. We'll watch over them. But please, be careful — the kingdom can be dangerous."
I nodded, smiled faintly, and set out.
The forest was quiet, except for the whisper of the wind through the dark trees.
After a long walk, I reached the city gates and went straight to the Adventurers' Guild.
> "Devit," the Guild Master said, "the Queen herself has summoned you. She's been asking for the man who defeated dozens of demons."
> "I know," I replied calmly. "I'm on my way."
The journey to the capital wasn't easy — wild beasts tried to block my path, but they were no match for my strength.
System: Level up. Strength: 6000 | Agility: 6000 | Endurance: 8000 | Intelligence: 6000
When I finally reached the royal capital, its beauty left me speechless.
High towers touched the clouds, and the golden banners of the Queen fluttered in the wind.
Rumor said she ruled alone — no king sat beside her throne.
They said whoever could defeat her in combat would earn her hand and become king…
But no one had ever succeeded.
At the castle gates, I gave my name. The guards exchanged glances, then bowed and led me inside.
The throne room shimmered with crystal light.
The Queen sat gracefully upon her seat — her gaze sharp, yet calm.
> "Welcome, Devit," she said. "I've heard many tales about you — the man who entered the dark forest and lived, who defeated countless demons. I have a favor to ask of you."
> "What kind of favor?" I asked cautiously.
> "In the northern mountains," she began, "the dead have started to rise. They march toward the kingdom. I cannot leave my throne, for if I do, the demons will invade. But you… with your strength, you could stop them."
I thought for a moment.
This was the perfect chance to test my limits — and prepare for stronger enemies ahead.
> "I'll accept," I said. "But I have one condition."
The Queen leaned forward.
> "What is it?"
> "My home lies near the Dark Forest, where I helped the elves. I want them to have free access to the capital. That's my request."
The Queen smiled faintly.
> "Very well. If you fulfill this mission, I'll grant your wish."
Just then, a messenger burst into the throne room, panting.
> "Your Majesty! The creatures from the northern mountains… they've begun to move!"
The Queen's expression darkened.
> "It's happening faster than we thought."
System: New mission: Eliminate the northern monsters. Time limit: 20 days.
I turned to the Queen.
> "Prepare your defenses. I'll take care of this — and I'll return soon."
Before leaving, I stopped by the forest one last time.
I gathered the elves and my children.
> "Listen to me," I said. "I'll be gone for a few days — three, maybe five. Stay safe, and look after each other."
> "Can we come with you, Dad?" my daughter asked, her eyes shining with hope.
> "Not yet," I said softly, patting her head. "When you're stronger — then we'll fight together."
The elves bowed.
> "We'll protect them until you return."
And so, I left once more.
After a full day of travel, I reached the northern mountains. The air was colder there — unnaturally cold.
The snow beneath my feet crackled as I stepped forward.
The night was silent. Too silent.
System: Warning. Monsters will appear soon.