A man inside a dark room was looking at a crystal orb. In a low voice, he said, "So it died."

The man, who was wearing a red demon mask, turned his head with an emotionless expression. He placed his eyes on a group of priests wearing black robes.

"Congratulations on the successful summoning."

"The Demon Cult has promised to provide us with additional support."

"We will be able to begin preparations to execute our true plan once we receive more support."

The priests celebrated the success of the demon summoning in unison.

The man in the red demon mask nodded.

"How are they planning to support us?"

"With demonic crystals created from concentrated demonic energy. They will be of help to our plan, and we were also given enough to increase your power, Your Eminence."

"Good," the masked man replied, satisfied. From his voice, one could sense his desire for the power he would receive.

Leaving the result aside, the summoning had been successful. They had fulfilled the conditions given by the Demon Cult, so...