The Greatest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Tensura

As the screen flickers, showing a list of species that the protagonist can choose from, he leans forward, analyzing the pros and cons of each. He can feel the weight of this decision—each species offers unique advantages, but each comes with its own set of challenges.

Human Strengths: Adaptability, resilience, ingenuity.

Weaknesses: Physical limitations, lack of innate magical prowess.

"A human... I've lived as one before. Their adaptability is unmatched, but their physical limits and short lifespan will only hold me back. I need more. I can't be stuck with the same restrictions as before. Becoming human would mean being ordinary once again. No, that's not enough."

Demon Strengths: Exceptional magic affinity, regeneration, and immense physical power.

Weaknesses: Vulnerability to holy magic, emotionally driven, unstable.

"Demons are tempting. They are powerful, with an ability to regenerate and wield powerful dark magic. But they are often unstable, driven by emotions and impulses. I can't afford to lose control like that. Holy magic could also be a serious problem, especially with the increasing threats in the world."

Dragon Strengths: Immense physical strength, elemental powers, flight, near immortality.

Weaknesses: Prideful nature, dependence on high magical energy, hard to conceal.

"Dragons... Their raw strength is undeniable. But their pride and size could make it difficult to stay hidden or move quickly. I can't afford to be a target, and a dragon's presence would certainly attract attention. I need to move like a shadow, not like a beast in the sky. This choice doesn't align with my goals."

Beastman Strengths: Heightened senses, speed, physical prowess, natural affinity for combat.

Weaknesses: Prone to instincts, occasionally too reckless or aggressive.

"Beastmen are naturally gifted in combat, with heightened senses and speed. They're perfect for physical confrontation. However, their instincts can get in the way, causing them to act too rashly. I need more control, not raw power that can become a liability in critical situations."

Vampire Strengths: Longevity, regeneration, blood magic, enhanced physical capabilities.

Weaknesses: Vulnerability to sunlight, need for blood.

"Vampires are tempting—immortality and regeneration are huge advantages. But the dependency on blood and weakness to sunlight can be a hassle. I need something more flexible, something that doesn't have such glaring weaknesses."

Orc Strengths: Great physical power, strong defense, incredible endurance.

Weaknesses: Lack of refined intelligence, limited magical ability.

"Orcs are incredibly strong, but their lack of intelligence and refined magic limits their versatility. I need something more than just strength. Intelligence and magic control are key to my survival, not just brute force."

Slime

Strengths: Absorption of powers, shapeshifting, regeneration, versatility in magic.

Weaknesses: Weak against certain high-tier physical and magical attacks, limited offensive power without external sources.

"Slime... A surprising option, but one I hadn't considered. The ability to absorb powers and shapeshift is tempting. Regeneration and versatility in magic are massive advantages. However, without external sources of power, I'll be weak in combat. I can't afford to start out that weak, especially against the threats in this world."

High Human (Variant of Human, significantly stronger potential)

Strengths: Magic affinity, increased lifespan, better overall stats.

Weaknesses: Still limited by physicality, though enhanced compared to ordinary humans.

"High Humans are a step up from regular humans, with better magic and a longer lifespan. But in the grand scheme of things, they are still not on par with the most powerful species in the world. They lack the sheer power I need, and I won't be able to grow as fast as I need to."

As he runs through the options, the MC's thoughts become more decisive. Becoming a Demon seems like the obvious choice, but... the risks are too high. The emotional instability, the danger of holy magic, the chaos that could arise.

"Dragons are too big. Too noticeable." he mutters. "I need to be someone who can move in the shadows, not dominate the battlefield with pure power. Beastmen are tempting for combat, but their instincts could make me too reckless. I need precision, not raw fury."

"A Demon... This could be the perfect option. The magic power is off the charts, and regeneration would ensure that I survive anything. The immortality is also appealing. But there's the risk of falling into madness or being easily swayed by emotions. I can't afford instability. I need to be focused, disciplined, a force of will. Holy magic could be a serious problem as well... but it's a risk I could take, if I learn to manage it. It would make me a fearsome being, something no one could ignore. If I take the right path, I could harness this power and remain in control."

The MC's gaze shifts as the screen presents a new set of information. The detailed descriptions of the Demon Types—Primordial Demons, High Demons, Greater Demons, and Lesser Demons—appear, and with it, a deeper understanding of the intricacies of demonic power in the Cardinal World. These types of demons are known to exist in the underworld of Hell, each possessing unique abilities and weaknesses that separate them from one another, but also bind them to certain rules.

The God's Voice resounds in the MC's mind, explaining the essential nature of these demonic beings:

Primordial Demons:

Power: These are the first beings of Hell, created from the very essence of destruction, chaos, and primal magic. They embody the raw forces of nature—entropy, death, and the breakdown of the cosmos itself. Primordial Demons are akin to the Demon Lords.

High Demons:

Power: These are demons who have evolved from Lesser Demons or Greater Demons, usually through consuming vast amounts of souls or accumulating power over millennia.

Greater Demons:

Power: These demons are powerful entities, though not as advanced as High Demons. Greater Demons typically serve as commanders under the leadership of higher-tier demons or entities. They are stronger than Lesser Demons.

Lesser Demons:

Power: The weakest among the demon types, Lesser Demons are often summoned as foot soldiers in large-scale demonic invasions. These demons are mindless or somewhat intelligent beings who follow the commands of stronger demons. While individually weak, they can pose a threat when in large numbers.

The MC takes in the information with great interest as the God continues speaking:

"Demons, no matter their type, are bound to the Abyssal Realm—Hell, as it is known to mortals. They are born and dwell there, unable to travel freely to the Cardinal World without being summoned. Even a High Demon cannot cross the barrier between realms unless a powerful sorcerer or summoner opens the gate for them. Once summoned, a demon requires a physical body in the Cardinal World to remain there permanently. Without a vessel to contain their essence, they will dissipate and be forced to return to their Hellish domain.

Therefore, having a vessel is crucial, as it enables them to manifest fully in the material world, interact with others, and even engage in combat."

The MC paused, his mind swirling with thoughts as he processed the vast amount of information that had just been laid out before him. Deciding to reincarnate as a High Demon felt like the wisest choice, a perfect balance between strength and flexibility. The Cardinal World was full of complex beings, and becoming a High Demon would grant him the power he needed to navigate this world with ease. It was not too weak to be overlooked, nor too strong to attract unwanted attention immediately.

As he made the decision, a new voice—God's Voice—echoed in his mind.

"You have chosen the path of a High Demon, a wise choice indeed. However, not all High Demons are the same. You must now choose your lineage, for that will define not only your powers but your character and how you interact with the world. There are seven distinct lineages within the realm of demons: Rouge, Noir, Blanc, Jaune, Vert, Bleu, and Violet."

The MC felt a sense of anticipation and curiosity fill him as the names of these lineages echoed in his mind, each one a symbol of something deeper, something that would shape his future.

"Let me tell you about each lineage, so you may make your choice carefully," God's Voice continued. The MC listened intently.

Rouge Lineage

Characteristics:

Demons of the Rouge lineage are known for their passionate, fiery nature. They are impulsive and thrive on combat and destruction. Often, they are seen as the most volatile of demons, seeking strength and power through battle and conquest. Their magic is typically flame-based, capable of devastating the environment around them.

Noir Lineage

Characteristics:

The Noir lineage is associated with darkness, secrecy, and stealth. These demons are calculating, often preferring to remain in the shadows. They excel at manipulation and subterfuge, using their powers to deceive and control their enemies from behind the scenes.

Blanc Lineage

Characteristics:

Demons of the Blanc lineage are associated with purity, order, and light. These demons are stoic, discipline-driven, and often take the role of lawmakers or enforcers within the demon world. While their magic is primarily light-based, they are not necessarily benevolent—rather, they believe in maintaining order at any cost, even if it means using force.

Jaune Lineage

Characteristics:

The Jaune lineage is known for adaptability, resourcefulness, and growth. These demons are often focused on survival and development, constantly seeking to evolve and improve their powers. They are patient, making them exceptional at long-term planning.

Vert Lineage

Characteristics:

The Vert lineage is known for nature, healing, and peace. Demons of this lineage are often seen as calm, balanced, and focused on growth in all aspects of life. While they may not be as powerful in terms of combat as others, they possess incredible healing abilities and protective magic.

Bleu Lineage

Characteristics:

The Bleu lineage represents the sea, storms, and tempests. These demons are mysterious, often associated with the wildness of the ocean. They are known for their ferocity and control over water and storms.

Violet Lineage

Characteristics:

The Violet lineage is linked with mysticism, secrets, and unknown magic. These demons are often the most enigmatic and unpredictable. They are experts at using forbidden magic and manipulating the very fabric of existence.

With the information laid out, the MC took a moment to reflect. The lineages each offered a distinct path, a unique flavor to the demon they would become.