The Generals gathered.
They were all rather puzzled.
They had only just taken a tiny patch of territory from the Nova Civilization. Why summon everyone now?
Tony looked at the Generals, his expression serious. "Everyone, I'm about to do something extremely difficult. I hope you'll be ready to help me."
Their hearts skipped a beat.
If even the Demon King called it difficult, just how hard could it be?
Hyperion was the first to thump his chest. "Boss, I've got your back!"
Loki rolled his eyes at the big lug, assessed his current abilities, and said seriously, "If it involves the mind or space, I'll do my best to handle it."
Only after seeing the other two speak did Mephisto seize his moment and sidle up, saying fawningly, "Whatever you command, my lord, I'll carry it out even if it costs me my life."
Hyperion would always be the first to speak, because his simple mind responded quickly, supporting the Demon King without a thought.
Second place had to go to Loki, because Loki was clever and liked to assess his abilities before offering the best possible support. That moment of thought put him one step behind Hyperion.
Loki was Tony's favorite. Mephisto couldn't steal his thunder.
And third place belonged to Mephisto himself.
The main player and the favorite had both had their say.
Next came the bootlick... no, the loyal lackey!
Mephisto had mastered the fine art of bootlick... no, demonstrating loyalty.
The other Generals voiced their agreement one after another. Their slower responses weren't due to disloyalty, but curiosity about just what difficult task the Demon King had in mind.
The Generals exchanged guesses and pondered the possibilities, waiting for their boss to reveal the answer.
Tony clasped his hands beneath his chin and said seriously, "You