MIGHT AS WELL BE OP Chapter 1143: Brainwashed

The God’s projection had never been left so utterly astonished before. Even observing Anthony transform his Angels into demons and manipulate energies between Chaos and Faith had not elicited such a profound shock.

Had another individual been present, an immediate, unhesitating assault would have been launched, as the secrets revealed were far too valuable to be shared.

However, the being facing him was the Demon King, an entity of comparable stature, whose presence could not be overlooked or dismissed. If the Demon King's True Body had been the subject of this encounter, perhaps an attempt to inflict even minor damage, a reduction however insignificant in his combat prowess, might have been considered.

Yet, even such a feat would likely be nullified by the Demon King’s innate ability for rapid recovery, negating any substantial consequence.

"How did you come to know?" the God's projection inquired, striving to maintain an outward appearance of calm, his voice a careful restraint over the palpable tension.

The Demon King responded with a disdaining smile. "Does it truly matter?" he countered. "The crucial point is that the secret is out – the feathers have flown from the bag," he remarked, a hint of amusement coloring his tone.

While the God's projection had suspected the Demon King’s knowledge stemmed from sheer intellect, he found it difficult to accept. His senses detected no trace of any ability being employed, no hint of intrusion or presence.

"Then, let us discuss our arrangement," the Demon King proposed, confidently holding the conversational advantage, his relaxed posture exuding an unsettling dominance.

The God's projection remained silent for a beat before conceding, "Speak. I am listening." His voice was low, measured, and conspicuously devoid of overt emotion.

The Demon King inclined his head and began. "While your Angels possess considerable strength, I question their capacity to contend with the entirety of the Acarnis Galaxy. Furthermore, such a conflict could span months, years, or even centuries. Should one side falter, they could retreat to remote sectors, regroup, and merely postpone an inevitable conclusion," the Demon King elaborated, his words delivered with a smooth, deliberate cadence.

"Therefore, my Demons will collaborate with you, alleviating some of the burden from your forces. After all, simultaneously engaging the Acarnis Galaxy and confronting my Demons presents a considerable challenge," he reasoned, his argument grounded in pragmatic logic.

The God's projection paused before posing a crucial question, "And what explanation will you offer your Demons for allying with Angels, rather than eliminating them as is their usual directive?" His inquiry was pertinent, as Demons were not mindless pawns to be manipulated without cause.

"Simple. I shall inform them that a pact was made, with the intention of eventual betrayal. Deceit and double-dealing are hallmarks of my kind, a reputation that ensures most who bargain with us ultimately face unfavorable terms," the Demon King's projection stated with an almost dismissive shrug.

He possessed the power to compel obedience without requiring justification. However, valuing capability, he would provide an explanation, albeit solely to his most powerful Demon Monarchs among the top hundred.

Lesser Demons were not privy to such discourse.

The God's projection's ethereal gaze flickered, visibly taken aback by the Demon King's casual declaration of planned treachery. The statement carried an undeniable weight.

The Demon King had spoken of betraying him as if it were a commonplace occurrence. Though not explicitly stated, the justification offered for his subordinates' actions felt disquieting to the God's projection.

The wily, deceptive nature of Demons was universally acknowledged; they were masters of manipulation and betrayal – or, as one might say, 'front-stabbers'. Despite this notoriety, individuals continued to forge agreements with them. Even Demons themselves recognized this trait, yet few would openly admit, "I am known for betraying people," with such an unconcerned demeanor.

Only a Demon King could enact such a feat.But from a certain viewpoint, it was perfectly understandable; the Demon King was aware of it, and the God was aware of it, so why engage in pointless formalities?

The God's projection felt an urge to terminate the agreement on the spot, yet he was unable to; the Demon King's non-interference would significantly accelerate his plans and smooth his path forward.

Naturally, the Demon King perceived the shift in the God's projection's demeanor, but did he give it any mind? Absolutely not.

"So, what narrative will you spin for your followers? Though, I suppose it matters little, considering their deeply ingrained indoctrination. I imagine if you declared that they must ally with the Demons, they would simply bow their heads and accept it as some form of Divine Mandate," the Demon King remarked, his words delivered without preamble or any pretense of authority or regal bearing. He was simply himself, unadorned and unperformed.

The God's projection met the Demon King's gaze and responded, "I shall inform them that the Demons have experienced a change of heart and have elected to join our cause in the war. However, owing to the timing of their repentance, there simply isn't sufficient time to fully convert all of your kind into devout followers," his voice conveying a sense of detached calm.

Upon hearing the God's projection's statement, the Demon King gave a nod, having anticipated precisely that outcome. Personally, he relished the prospect; he hadn't witnessed a conflict of this magnitude in an age, perhaps not since time immemorial. While the occasional threat of a Galaxy-level entity did emerge, such occurrences were merely predictable and uninteresting to beings of his caliber.

But this... this promised to be exhilarating. His very being and instinct vibrated with this certainty, as if presaging the ensuing pandemonium.