I strode boldly towards them, though my magical prowess rivals that of Lucifer, I am but a mere high school student. Facing this formidable force, I couldn't help but feel a shiver down my spine. Three knights, two men and a woman, approached and simultaneously bowed, "The Dark Dragon Knights' aerial commander, Shawn, ground commander, Rahalt, and naval commander, Rovis, greet the captain."

These were three exceptionally striking individuals. Rahalt, tall and slender, stood as straight as a spear, exuding an intimidating aura. Rovis, a rare beauty among men, clad in pitch-black armor, emitted a chilling aura that sent shivers down one's spine. Then, the aerial commander, Shawn, was an uncommonly beautiful woman, slightly inferior to the enchanting allure of Ayah. Clad in armor, she possessed a noble and masculine beauty that was different from Ayah's.

With a forced laugh, I said, "Hello, everyone."

Silence enveloped the scene, as not a single Dark Dragon Knight responded, imposing an initial show of dominance.

Cold as ice, Rovis spoke, "Captain, no need for words. You only need to give us orders, and we will execute each one faithfully."

Ayah whispered behind me, "Master, don't mind them. They have always been like this, even in front of the King. But their loyalty is unquestionable. Master, as long as you gain their loyalty, they will follow you through fire and water."

I nodded in understanding and then spoke loudly, "You are all experienced and brave knights. As a mere unknown human, I understand you may be unconvinced. I need to demonstrate my strength to prove myself. Very well, let me show you."

I reached out to Ayah behind me, smiled, and said, "Little Night."

Ayah smiled knowingly. Her figure turned into a dark sword, flying into my hands.

Seeing the princess transformed into a sword, the Dark Dragon Knights understood the significance. Aware of what conditions were required for such a transformation, they knew the strength and loyalty Ayah possessed. Even though their expressions were as icy as ever, a hint of surprise flashed through them.

With Ayah, now a sword, resting against my chest, I began to gather magical power. A black light enveloped me, and the Dark Dragon Knights could sense a tremendous dark energy rapidly converging at an astonishing speed. Knowing I was employing advanced dark magic, they were taken aback.

Under my command, the dark energy quickly gathered, and with a low shout, a black sphere appeared at the tip of "Ayah." It was a pitch-black, profound, and indescribable dark sphere.

"Hell's Apocalypse," experienced Dark Dragon Knights recognized this ultimate dark magic that only a Demon King could use. They were astonished. Shawn, Rahalt, and Rovis simultaneously kneeled, saying, "Captain, we were blind. We were disrespectful just now. Please retract the magic. We swear to follow you to the death."

I was overjoyed at their submission. I raised my sword to the sky, and the dark sphere shot up, disappearing into the black sky.

At that moment, I was unaware that this seemingly harmless dark sphere would bring me great trouble. But that's a story for another time. Dismissing the Dark Dragon Knights, I proceeded with Ayah to find Lucifer.

Lucifer, with his characteristic cunning, was sitting elegantly, sipping tea. Seeing me, he chuckled, "My good son-in-law, I knew you could subdue those unruly Dragon Knights. So, how was it? Here to report so soon?"

While I mentally cursed the conniving Demon King, I maintained a pleasant facade, "Lucifer, I've fulfilled your appointment. Can I use the 'Transfer Gate' to return to the Holy Demon Continent now? If you summon me in the future, I will definitely come."

Lucifer elegantly smiled, "Oh, so soon to leave? But, my good son-in-law, now you are a prominent figure in the Demon Realm. To go back, you'll need to contribute to the Demon Realm. Do a great service, and then, you can do as you please."

I knew it wouldn't be so simple. Reluctantly, I agreed. As I left the palace, Ayah anxiously said, "Master, why did you agree so easily? The Hell Black Dragon is an ancient creature in the seventh layer of hell, cunning and powerful. Even my father can't defeat it. Master, you..."

I sighed, "Your old man is clearly scheming against me. I can't refuse, can I? Ayah, I never knew Lucifer was this cunning."

Seeing Ayah's worried expression, I gently embraced her, "Little Night, don't worry too much. Remember, I'm now the captain of the 'Dark Dragon Knights.' I can legitimately lead this elite force to slay a dragon. Aren't you excited?"

Ayah, slightly relieved, pressed her beautiful face against my chest, "No matter what, I'll accompany you. Even if you didn't want me to come, I'd still follow."

I teased her, "Even if I didn't allow it, you'd still follow?"

Ayah pouted, "You know it. I'll always be by your side. By the way, Master, let me take you to Father's secret treasury. Pick some suitable equipment. Since he's plotting against you, let's choose the best to spite him."

Women are assertive, and it seemed Ayah was no exception. With her heart wholly devoted to me, my heart warmed.

I glanced at my worn-out magical robe, a gift from Linka. Thinking about the imposing black armor of the Dragon Knights, I couldn't help but feel envious. Moreover, I wanted to retaliate against Lucifer's cunning. So, I agreed to Ayah's proposal.