Three days had passed since I returned to the real world.
The Demon Lord's territory was regaining its calm.
There was no trace of beasts within the borders, and everywhere, recovery work was underway.
We had deployed the Demon Lord's Army to various regions and immediately began providing supplies and constructing temporary housing.
First and foremost, we had to secure food, clothing, and shelter for the people.
Fortunately, supplies and manpower were sufficient.
At present, no particular problems seemed to have arisen.
It would be a struggle for a while, but there appeared to be no catastrophic damage.
This was thanks to the tireless efforts of the Demon Lord's Army, led by the executives.
No amount of gratitude would ever be enough for them.
The various nations across the continent were also aware that the Great Spirit and I had annihilated the beasts.
However, information was currently tangled and confused, leading to much turmoil swirling around.
This was a sudden development for them.
Although the immediate threat had passed, it was understandable that major cities were paralyzed.
There were even those beginning to preach conspiracy theories and the end of the world.
In reality, it was a matter from a completely different dimension, but no one pointed that out.
Only a very small number of people knew the truth about the beasts.
Disseminating the information would only invite further confusion.
I intended to use covert agents for information manipulation eventually, but for now, the policy was to wait and observe.
Even in the Demon Lord's territory alone, tasks were piling up.
Unless things get dire, it should be fine to leave it be for now.
(I've been having an onslaught of days...)
Standing on the castle balcony, I bathe in the night breeze, taking a break.
As an undead, I'm free from physical fatigue, and my magical energy is constantly replenished.
Still, mental fatigue can't be ignored.
If I push too hard, there's a risk of unforeseen complications.
That's why I make sure to rest frequently.
These past two days especially, my subordinates have been expressing concern quite often.
They're even considering proposals to keep an eye on me in shifts.
The incident where I shattered my body to dive into the spiritual realm... it seems that was a mistake.
While I had my reasons, I've ended up causing them unnecessary trouble.
I've even been pleaded with to stick to more peaceful methods going forward.
(It's a strange sort of happiness, to be worried about despite being undead.)
As I idly gaze out over the town below, a familiar presence appears overhead.
It's the great spirit who descends beside me.
I'd heard she was going to share information with the other defense mechanisms; her return was quicker than I expected.
I thought it would take a little more time.
Perhaps, given the situation, she decided to cut the conversation short.
However, I don't recall summoning the great spirit here.
I ask her.
"Do you need something?"
"I've come to give a progress report. Aren't you also curious about the state of the other continents?"
"...You're right, I am."
I nod honestly.
It seems the great spirit has heard about the situation on the other continents from other defensive mechanisms.
I had some grasp of it through spies and detection magic, but receiving accurate information would certainly be welcome.
Once I convey that, the great spirit begins to explain in the fewest words necessary.
Apparently, the beasts that were rampaging openly on the other continents have also been exterminated.
In terms of combat strength, the defensive mechanisms shouldn't lose, but it seems some cunning beasts are still lurking.
Their whereabouts are unknown, and searches are ongoing.
Someone like me, who can precisely sense beasts, must be rare.
"Why are you telling me this information? Do you want me to reinforce the other continents?"
"That is not my intention. Nor am I in a position to demand it of you."
The great spirit answers with a dignified posture.
There's no sign of lies or evasion.
I tilt my head.
(Here I thought I'd be put in charge of reconnaissance...)
It's also true that the situation isn't that desperate.
But more than anything, I sensed consideration for me in the great spirit's response.
I had expected a demand without question, so I feel caught off guard.
A moment of relief, and the Great Spirit pointed out with cold precision.
"You think of me as an insufferable calamity, don't you?"
"...It's just your imagination."
I shook my head, hiding my guilt.