Fans of the How Not To Summon a Demon Lord anime and light novel series are captivated by the complex relationships, especially the dynamic between Diablo and his "wives." While the anime and novels explicitly detail the summoning and the subsequent harem, many fans ponder alternative scenarios – what if Diablo never summoned them? This post explores clever workarounds that could have completely altered the story's trajectory, avoiding the whole "demon lord with a harem" situation.
Avoiding the Initial Summoning: The Crucial Crossroads
The entire premise hinges on the summoning ritual. Let's explore several hypothetical scenarios that prevent this pivotal event:
1. The Glitch in the System: A Technical Failure
The Problem: The summoning ritual requires precise execution. A simple, seemingly insignificant, technical malfunction could render the ritual ineffective. Perhaps the wrong incantation is used, a crucial ingredient is missing, or the magical energy flow is disrupted.
The Result: Diablo remains undisturbed in his world, the two heroines remain in theirs, and the entire premise of the series is avoided. This is a simple but effective workaround, focusing on the core mechanic that sets the whole plot in motion.
2. A Timely Intervention: A Hero's Unexpected Arrival
The Problem: A powerful, unexpected hero intervenes during the summoning. This hero could be a passing adventurer, a celestial being, or even another demon who disrupts the ritual out of spite or for their own mysterious agenda.
The Result: The interruption prevents the successful summoning, leaving Diablo safely in his realm. This opens up opportunities for a completely different story, focusing on the intervening hero's adventures.
3. A Change of Heart: The Heroines' Last-Minute Hesitation
The Problem: Rem and Shera, facing their own internal conflict, choose not to complete the ritual. Perhaps they're overwhelmed by fear, second-guess their objectives, or recognize the potential danger involved in summoning a powerful demon.
The Result: The potential for character development expands enormously. This workaround explores their inner struggles and potentially paves the way for a completely different kind of adventure, one focused on self-discovery and avoiding the path of summoning.
Alternative Storylines: Reimagining the Narrative
Let's imagine the series' initial premise is avoided. How could the story proceed?
1. A Tale of Two Worlds: Separate Adventures
Rem and Shera pursue their own, separate adventures. Rem might continue her quest for vengeance (assuming that's her original motivation), while Shera focuses on her own aspirations within her world. This opens up possibilities for parallel storylines.
2. An Unexpected Alliance: A Different Kind of Friendship
Without the summoning, Rem and Shera might meet through different circumstances. Perhaps they become unlikely allies, working together to solve a common problem or foil a common enemy. The focus shifts from a master-servant dynamic to a genuine friendship.
3. Diablo's Own Journey: A Different Kind of Demon Lord
If the summoning never occurred, we could follow Diablo's own adventures within his world. This could explore his motivations, his ambitions, and the challenges he faces within his own realm. A compelling alternative focusing on his character development separate from the events of the main series.
Conclusion: Beyond the Summoning
By exploring these clever workarounds, we move beyond the established narrative of How Not To Summon a Demon Lord, creating opportunities for fresh and imaginative storytelling. These alternatives offer rich potential for expanding upon existing characters and exploring entirely new possibilities within the universe. The possibilities are limitless!
