Light Novel Side Stories

(Source: 転生したらスライムだった件 8.5, 13.5 公式設定資料集)

Written by Fuse/伏瀬 Illustration by Taiki Kawakami/川上泰樹

Translator (EN): DasRay_1911 Editor: SwordOfSierra (See afterword for other acknowlegdement)

Catalogue

Part I: Volume 8.5

(Cover Illustration)

I. 蓑虫ゴブタ – Psychidae Gobuta

II. 夜の蝶 – Night Butterfly

III. とある冒険者達の日常 –

Nichijou of certain band of adventurers

IV. 着せ替え – Dress up

V. 温泉 – Hot Spring

VI. 桃色の景色 – A Pink Scenery

VII. 釣り – Fishing

VIII. ゴブタの修行 – Gobuta’s training day

IX. ミリムと蜂蜜 – Milim and honey

X. ゲルドと仕事 – Geld and work

XI. 好敵手 – Good Opponent (wrong position)

XII. リムルの手記 – Rimuru’s Notebook

XIII. 美食の道 – Road of delicacy

XIV. 聖騎士たちの敗北 – Defeat of the Holy Knights

Part II: Volume 13.5

(Cover Illustration)

I. 魔物の国の給与事情 – Payday at Tempest City

II. 常夜の国の女神様 – Goddess of the Ever-night Kingdom

III. 紅に染まる湖畔事変 – Lake shore dyed in scarlet Incident

Afrerword & Acknowledgement

(Note: My own interjections are all bracketed with initial “D”)

Psychidae Gobuta1 Or Gobuta in cocoon

Hi everyone, this is Gobuta!

Right now, I’m under Rimuru Sama’s punishment. What is called a “Psychidae Hell”, being bonded by wires and hung under the ceiling.

However, there isn’t any pain or suffering. Right now, I am able to relax my body and stay in a relatively free state. This is surprisingly comfortable. And since the wires are flexible, my body can in fact move. However, the wires won’t break regardless how I struggle, and moving too much also causes nausea. So, I’ve began to notice that it’s perhaps better to just stay still quietly.

Just like that, yet there’s something more heart-breaking than being left here Only Rimuru Sama and the others get to go to the Night something club. This is just too much. I wanted to go as well…

But, I really have nothing to do now…

Given it’s quite impossible for me to escape by myself, I can only help myself by summoning one of the Direwolf buddy to save me. But, how is it possible for me to do? It is impossible even for captain Rigrudo. I shouldn’t even have to worry now if it’s that simple to do. This is, probably Rimuru Sama’s clever challenge. Rimuru sama is so mean, I only overslept a little… But I’ll probably get Captain Rigur and elder Rigurdo mad by saying such thing. So I’ll just keep it here.

Although I complain, there isn’t really any pain or displeasure, aside from having nothing to do. In the end of the day, Rimuru Sama is still very kind and soft. I suppose that’s why everyone adores him. Mah, he will probably let me down by tomorrow when he returns, I just have to endure for the night.

◇◇◇ That’s really strange. It’s already morning now after a whole night, yet Rimuru sama and the others haven’t returned. Did something happened? It may just be them going sight-seeing or spending the

1 Psychidae is a cocoon like shell usually made up of wires 5 night somewhere else. But honestly, I’m beginning to feel hungry. I really hope to be back home soon.

◇◇◇ This is really bad…… It’s been three days yet Rimuru Sama and the others still haven’t returned That’s worrying, but——right now it’s no time to worry about others!

Right now, I am facing the real crisis.

Even though it’s pretty terrible to have an empty stomach, something much more severe has occurred compared to that. piii ~~~~~~ guruguruguru….

My stomach hurts… Even though I was able to keep the pee in, but now I’m faced with a number two. While under attack from both, I feel as though my psyche is being trained to the extreme. and, ah! Where I am being hung is a living room with a fur carpet under my feet. It would be another thing if it’s stone-carved floor, but if I get such expansive- looking carpet dirty, even Mr Kaijin would get mad… The same goes for Rimuru Sama, he will probably be very mad at me for causing a havoc in the room, someone who has never really paid any attention when he explained stuff like going to restroom and taking shower.

It would seem, right now, I am about the same as being in danger. So what should I do then….. No, it’s not just a little… this is bad…

I started to squeeze my body in as I plan to endure, causing the vibration to pass onto the wires, causing very subtle oscillations. If this continues, it is only a matter of time before great tragedy occurs. It seems impossible to cut the wires loose, so I have to wait for Rimuru Sama to return. No solution now. I’m completely out of ways. The accumulated sweat from just now starts to flow down on me, and my visions also starts to blur. If there is no way out, then I should just give up, and let it all out ——

No, wait a second? Speaking of which…. To the desperate me, I heard voices akin to heaven’s call

“If you ever feel like giving up, just try summoning your buddy to save yourself!” That’s true, Rimuru Sama did say that. I’m definitely being tested! And knowing this, it must be able to summon in an instant. (D: F for Gobuta in the chat please)

(My buddy, please come! If you don’t come quick enough, something horrible is going to happen!!) As such I thought in my heart, and so I feel the transmission of the message to the Direwolf, who has not experienced this prior. Seems to be working!

And so, I kept calling after the trial and was able to grasp the connection of consciousness at the third attempts. If this is it then it’s a lot simpler. Given that my psyche has been tormented to its limit at this point.

At last, I was able to successfully summon the buddy before reaching my limit and let it carry me to the toilet. But what happened next (in the toilet) when I release everything and lost my power gradually is a secret.

Luckily, it was days before Rimuru sama returned, so the cleaning was done without any trace. Due to having summoned a companion, I was quite surprised by myself and so was cheered up a bit.

But for certain, I don’t at all plan to tell anyone that I have almost failed in doing so. That is what needs to be brought into the grave.

The hardship behind success, such is its story!

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Nichijou of certain band of adventurers2

Cobal, Elen and Gido walked lifelessly on the road. The three with expressions of extreme tiredness stopped at the building they are incredibly familiar with. Opened the door with their strengthless arms and entered. This is a cheap hotel that also function as a pub. To the penniless three, this is their favorite spot.

The three regrouped at the pub after confirming their room. Then, in a grand joint of sighing, the three opened up the chatter box as if complaints have piled up like a mountain.

「So, didn’t I say not to do it at the time!」

「That’s right, I totally said I didn’t feel good about it!」

「There is no other way – That is! Well we definitely didn’t expect to encounter

a mutated twin-head Python on a contract to eliminate serpent!」

「But, but, it took us all the effort to get to the fourth one…」

「and there’s only one more left…」

「It’s good enough that we were able to negotiate to the point of at least not

failing the contract…」

There’s no point in continuing this argument, so Cabal ended the conversation. Even though Cabal has every intention of complaining like the other two. But given his role and responsibility as the caption of the party, he has accepted his position as listener of everyone’s complaint.

The ale was served as the three was in this state.

And so the three seemed to have forgotten what they dislike and down the ale in a go. In the end of the day, the contract was not failed. However, the payment was cut half, and the cost for repairing the gears are sky-high due to the dissolving saliva on them while trying to escape from the twin-head python. The more they think, the more losses there seem to be. They probably won’t be able

2 Nichijou means daily routine/everyday routine 8 to continue working without these drinks.

Although they want to buy new equipment, they lack the funds to do so, and had to pay for the gear repairing.

「AHHH--, I want to have dwarven equipment… but even the cheapest ones cost several gold coins……」

「That’s way too luxurious, Cabal. I also wants new mage cape, but for now we have to endure.」

「I sure am poor. that’s why I feel lucky that I’m able to just survive this time.」

「That’s true. Because we had escaped from the twin-head python we were able to report about it, that led to the dispatching of the kill squad. We should be happy that the residents there were not affected, right?」

「Right, right. It’s no problem that we spent all our saving on repairing gears.」

Just as Cabal was going to think positively after hearing Gido’s response, he was immediately brought back to reality by the words of Elen, proceeded to be plunged into depression. To change up this atmosphere, let’s drink up (give up on life) and go to sleep. Then start working hard from tomorrow onward! Such is what Cabal was going to say.

「Oi, have you heard?」

「Ah, about the Villa in the mountain located within the mountains in front of

Kiana Village, right? It would seem that there’s a contract of 10 gold coins on it.」

The three heard this from the men chatting while drinking next to them. They seemed to have been drunk at just the right time, that they didn’t noticed their own loud chatter. Having awaken upon hearing about the 10 coins, the three started to eavesdrop seriously.

「The payment seems to be 10 coins or so if anyone slays the monster.」

「Oi oi, that sure is an exceptional pricing. But why is the bounty so high?」

「It seems that the warrant isn’t issued from the guild. You get bonus from the agency issuing the contract.」

「If that’s the case, wouldn’t it be impossible to know the power of the monster?

Surely there isn’t any idiot who would actually take the deal, right?」

「Ten gold coins can be a very attracting price, but Kiana village is still quite far. Having to set out on the journey without even knowing the details of the contract… regardless of how you see it… you probably won’t take it right?」

「That’s right. It’s much wiser to make money bit by bit.」

The men laughed as they said so, putting the matter of high bounty behind the brain and started chatting about each other’s “grand visions”.

Cabal, Elen and Gido looked at each other. 「You now, we’ve been quite free since the last contract…」

「Yeah… and it’s about that time in the year to try out mountain cuisines…」

「Isn’t it nice to occasionally visit mountains to train your body and soul?」

The three nodded at each other in agreement. Their eyes filled with desire, and it’s clear that they have no concern for whether it is dangerous or not.

◇◇◇ Cabal, Elen and Gido sprint at full speed. As they are about to reach the exit, “that thing” appeared in front of the door. A lower devil. “B+” level of lower devil, yet to the Cabal trio is an opponent that they have 50- 50 chance of winning against.

According to the Guild’s principle of distributing contract based on level, opponent up until the same level as the adventurer can be considered on par. However, if one challenges opponent higher than one’s level, to say there is no

10 guarantee of victory would be an understatement, rather, it is a suicidal act.

How did the situation turn out like this, in the end it was because…

◇◇◇ After resting the night at Kiana village, the party decides to visit the villa in the mountain. The three decided to take the contract there, while the night has already set in, they were thus invited to stay the night at the villa’s guest room. It is when they dined with the villa’s owner that they learnt it was a trap.

「We are truly sorry for the trouble, but is it really okay to treat us with such feast?」

「All the cuisines taste amazing~!」

「Giant Ghost Bear should be a piece of cake if you leave it to our care, so please await with reassurance!」

「Hahaha, ara, young people sure are reliable. Please enjoy the meal to your heart content, there are more in stock!」

「Thank you very much!」

「Indeed, these are truly delicious~! Could it be that he is trying to eat us after feeding us well~?」

「Hahaha, ha? Haha, wait, what did you just say?」

「No, that… trying to feed us well, and eat us…something like that?」

「……….」

「……..」「 ……..」「 ……..」

The owner showed a twisted smile towards Elen’s joke.

Elen, who just wanted to jest around, responded with a forced smile towards that unnatural expression.

「Could it be…. That~It wasn’t a joke?」

「Fufu, FUHAHAHA! You mere mortals have done well in seeing through me. Although it hasn’t gone exactly according to plan. But I shall kill you all here and now then take your flesh.」 As he finishes his sentence, the owner revealed his true form. Seeing the revelation, the three decided to retreat. There began the three’s grand escape.

◇◇◇ After which, the three got stuck in front of the gate after running all over the place. 「Ah, we should be more determined at this point~! Let’s take care of it!!」

「Lil sis, it’s easier said than done… mah, I suppose it can’t be helped.」

「Oi oi, I’m supposed to be the caption no? CAN’T ~ BE ~ HELPED, let me show you how it’s done then!」

The two men become determined as well hearing Elen’s proclamation and decided to fight full out bearing the resolve of suffering bankruptcy.

「Gu, that’s impossible…. Mere lowly humans, could harm me… If only I’ve been fully incarnated——」 The lower devil was destroyed leaving that final line.

It would seem it wasn’t fully destroyed, but only unable to fully maintain its flesh. But even so it can be called a victory of the three.

「We, we did it! We beat the lower devil!」

「So we did~! We are surely the type that can do anything when determined~!」

「That’s great. Really, great. I was sure that I would have gone so far as to die just

12 now…!」

The cheering trio’s expressions changed immediately after noticing the approaching flame.

「Oh shit! That bastard’s fireball has lit the villa on fire!」

「OH NOOOO~! We will get burnt to crisps if we don’t escape fast enough~!」

「Stop being shocked while doing nothing, let’s run away now!」 The panicked three went on the run, again.

They were able to escape safely due to the gate being already broken during the battle --- however….. 「Speaking of which… the 10 gold coins payment…」

「Sip it! We are here to train our body and mind right?」

「……. Indeed we did, and the villa is also destroyed, so this time——」

「AHHHHHH! So, we wasted our effort again!?~ I thought it’s about time we get to enjoy more elegant lifestyle~! And I wanted to buy prettier robe using the payment~!」 (TL: said the Sarion royalty) 「That’s why you should just sip it! This can only make our situation sound more tragic!?」

「Mah, this really aligns with our style though. We are lucky enough just by surviving!」

「Really, this again…. We are always talking the same thing every single time~」

Although, even they complain in words, the three look cheerful as ever. This is just part of their daily life, and the three know from experience, as long as they live there will eventually be something good in life. After finishing reporting to the nearest guild, the three stooped by the pub to kill time.

And so the three was summoned by the guild master.

◇◇◇ The three entered the room nervously.

「It would seem you all have taken jobs that are unfitting for your level due to personal desire again.」 The Guild master’s scold came right on their face faster than what Gido could to close the door. 「No, due to not having accepted the contract at all, this is simply a violation of guild rule, please forgive us!」 Cabal explained in panic.

However, the guild master responded to Cabal’s answer with a smirk, then continued. 「Oh whatever, you all must have learnt a lot just by surviving.」 The three were confused by the guild master’s reaction – perhaps he’s in a good mood today, or so the three tried to reassure themselves…

「BUT, you’re all too reckless! Blockheads!!」 And so they were lectured by the guild master who is more horrifying than an ogre. The supposedly busy guild master went on lecturing them for hours. The three are on the verge of crying due to such horrible luck.

To the three, the guild master said this at last. 「However it is just as you reported, the twin-head serpents have been found. In the forest far from the village. It was because you had lured it to there, is it not? Great job. Apart from that, it is good that you were able to escape. Please recognize the difference in levels in the future and stop being so reckless.」

「No, it was just because we were so caught on escaping we ran towards he opposite direction of the village in mistake」

「Yes, yes, we were so scared at the time~」 14

「It was our mistake, if we were to escape back to the village, there are still soldiers waiting there.」

The guild master showed a look saying “Yeah sure, that’s definitely how it went down” as if he has seen through the three who are trying to get past the situation by saying so. And so, he turned his eyes back to his documents. This is how the guild master express his gratitude.

The three saluted and left the guild master’s office.

◇◇◇ Few days later. They happened to pass by certain village due to work.

「Ah, it’s big sis and her party! Thank you so much for defeating those scary monsters!」 The three got surrounded by the kids running and shouting towards them. Those smiles are filled with happiness. The expressions they once saw when they visited the village last time, the weeping faces of children worrying about their parents are no more.

「To me, the best rewards is to see these smiles, or so I think occasionally~!」

「Well, it sure ain’t bad.」

「That’s true, there are things more valuable than money!」 The three were attracted by the kids and put on smiles on their faces. This won’t take up too much time.

And then the three, as usual, move on their way. The adventure of the three has only begun.

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Night Butterfly

It’s surprisingly comfortable being in a body of a slime. It isn’t hard to move around, nor do I ever feel tiredness. To the care-free me, there is no inconvenience of it at all. However, something extremely problematic occurs here.

…… I came to the famous hostess club known as「Night Butterfly」 As a token of appreciation, Mr Kaijin brought me here. Although I wasn’t really interested, I couldn’t say no given how persistent Kaijin was. It’s true, I really have no interest. But, Kaijin just wouldn’t back down……

Alright, I’ll admit it. I do have some interest. It’s been a long time since I could drink with beautiful Onee-Sans3, so I’m pretty pumped to go to the club. BUT !! Even if I drink, I show no sign of getting drunk, this can be really problematic. Kaijin brought me here out of all trouble, being like this surely would reduce the fun by half. Even though I tried very hard to get myself drunk, but it really can’t be help as I can’t taste anything. Wanting to encourage myself with a determined resolve but had to give up having stuck in this state.

However, drinking is not the only fun thing. I am the type of man (slime) to quickly change my mood and won’t give up due to this type of miniature matter! It is precisely for that reason, to let「Night butterfly」lives up to its name. I want to enjoy playing with the eleven Onee-Sans who are known for their beauty.

But there is another issue. Although I don’t feel any dissatisfaction with the slime body, I encountered another problem in the club. This time is --- I don’t have hands. It’s rare to have so many elven Onee-Sans here, it would surely be problematic if I can’t touch them.

I am being held by a tender and slim arm while being crushed by ample bosoms.

This feels so good! Could this be heaven!? I should be exclaiming in joy in this type of heavenly situation…… But it’s saddening that I can’t do anything further due to not having hands (TL: Fuse definitely writes ero doujin)

3 Onee-San: Big sisters 16

I think back to all the monster I’ve preyed prior to this day, hands, tentacles, I tried so hard thinking about them and attempted to channel my thoughts in order to produce these organs.

It is time like this that I need my unique skill「Great Sage」, and gave it order.

However ——

《Answer, insufficient information, creation of designated organ fails》

It’s futile ------!! What type of a “Great Sage” is this?! Completely useless in such important time. But, mah, the monsters I’ve preyed —— Snake, centipede, spider, bats, lizards, wolves —— While thinking it carefully there really isn’t anything that can sustain such organ. Although it is regrettable, but I may have to give up operation “Rub the bosoms”.4

BUT! —— I’m not the type of man to give up here. Even though I can’t rub some bosoms, I could still enjoy the fragrance of eleven Onee-Sans. Being covered in their ample bosoms and enjoy such heavenly fragrance. This is truly, so called the greatest meaning in living for mature male. So let me enjoy it already. To breathe in the air around deeply and reach the world of fragrant attar. For now, my skill「super smell」acquired from Direwolf has been largely active. I’m very satisfied with the fragrance of Elven beauties and wanna learn more about it.

《Answer. The compositions are perfume plus hormone stimulus, oxytocin——》

STOP! NO, That’s not it at all!! I don’t at all want to learn that type of specific knowledge…… And if I get to know it in that level of detail, the quite beauty of it would also disappear.

For real, is the name “Great Sage” just for show? What a useless skill. So, I explained to Great Sage in detail, that I actually just want to know the wonderfulness brought by the fragrance but knowing too much is definitely not allowed, as such. It is best to stop at a certain point, whichever thing it is in life, there is a line that cannot be cross.

4 Actual passage: to give up rubbing the boobs ( ͡° ͜ʖ °)͡ 17

Even if one wishes to know, one shouldn’t know, even if one wishes to see, one shouldn’t see. That is the so called, Gokui5 So called human, is the type that would immediately lose interest knowing them. And so, one should stop at the bound of Gokui, and should restrain oneself if one wishes to continue. In other words, it’s sort of a perverted variant in sexual desire. Due to the subverted curiosity, one derives even more excitement. The type that only a pro can do, the so-called kink. I explain these things triumphally to Great Sage. 《……Answer. Understood》

Really? Sasuga「Great Sage」. Due to my enthusiastic delivery, it seems to understand what Gokui is about.

The Great Sage who understood Gokui is so great. Letting her understand my feeling that was almost unbearable up until now. In more details, to be able to understand the mood of a female through their fragrance. To know whether they are happy or angry, the different emotions as such. Such information is priceless in this hostess club.

For that reason, I have secured my position as king in the club. The effect not only affects smell, but also eyesight. To use the seamless memory and replay things in my head. If it is only the eyesight part, has been surprisingly difficult. But by using「Magic Detection」to make the image reemerge, not only cost little mana, but also enlarge the view. By using that wide view of sight, I can see where humans are not capable of viewing, even the images under the skirt. Although, the elven Onee-Sans seems to protect their golden triangle (thigh), showing in such a way that it appears to be visible while actually not showing anything.

Sasuga Great Sage …… what a terrifying existence.

And so, my exploration in the hostess club continued without me satisfied until the clueless intruder showed up.

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5 極意 (Gokui): Means a state of in between the limitation and beyond, not sure how to translate 18

Dress Up Or How I stop worrying and love the cross dress

On that day, the female residents continued their work nervously without a word They all unconsciously steer their eyes towards that certain building as if something’s on their mind. Inside the building, the ladies are proceeding an earnest discussion with caution.

「Well then, Miss Haruna, I imagine there is no delay to the preparation?」

「Yes, Shuna Sama. Everything is proceeding according to the plan.」 Surely it won’t be any mistake with her handling it. Shuna nodded in response satisfyingly.

「Shion, any problem on your part?」

「None, Shuna Sama. Just leave it to my care!」

「… Is that so. Well do remember that your duty would be the center of our plan.」

「Of course! Please do not worry!」

Unlike how Shuna feels about Haruna, she senses certain unease regarding Shion. Yet, this operation cannot be completed without Shion’s assistance. Feeling conflicted, Shuna still responded to Shion with a nod. The three looked at each other once more before commencing their respective duty.

◇◇◇ On a certain bright and sunny day. I (Rimuru) bumped onto the street to inspect the progress of the town construction. Due to not being with Shion for the day, I had to walk on my own feet for quite some time to come. Well, Slime doesn’t have feet, so it’s more like moving forward like waves – which doesn’t really matter. What’s important is being able to enjoy a casual stroke.

However, the pleasant time has come to an end. 「There you are, Rimuru Sama!」 Shion ran towards me and hugged me up, rubbing me against her face with a smile.

Although this happens all the time so I didn’t give it another thought, but could it be that I have been mixed up with some pet? Mah, the feels of bosoms are really comfortable, so I don’t intend to complain.

With that being said, it wouldn’t be good if I continued. So, I had to escape from Shion’s breast by transforming back to human form with a shred of regret.

「So, it appears that you are looking for me, is there something wrong?」

「“Oh yes! Shuna sama told me to call Rimuru sama…」 Hmm? Shuna is looking for me? So Shion has been absent due to being called by Shuna. That makes it a more understandable situation.

「Alright, let’s set out to her now.」

「Yes!」

Just like that, I walked towards where Shuna was without any doubt… Well that’s where my mistake began, I didn’t have any reason to take notice of it…

When I entered the room, Shuna greeted me with a smile as usual. When I entered the building, it felt as though all the female were extremely nervous. It must be my illusion that Shuna has been acting the same as usual

「Have some tea here!」 At that point, Shion closed in with the tea making tools. I responded with thanks while trying to prepare some tea…

「Oh! I’m R E A L L Y S O R R Y!」 Shion said so with an Oscar winning expression while pouring the tea onto me.

Even though I had heat resistance and feels no heat while being poured, I still shouted “so hot!?” without thinking. But even before that the tea has been normal temperature. Could it be that it was made so to pour it onto me? I looked at Shion with doubt….

With the door suddenly opened, “Ayyya Rimuru sama! You will get cold if you stay in this those clothes!” Haruna rushed in while shouting.

—— IT”S A TRAP! ——

It was too late before I have realized it. 「W-wait a second! You guys, what do you all plan to do!?」

「Ara ara, this suits you really well!」

「This one here also suits you well Rimuru Sama!」

「Please try this one here as well! This is my best work yet, made it while thinking about Rimuru sama!」

「W-Wait up you guys! Please follow some order.」

My clothes were stripped instantaneously with the hands coming from all direction. What happened next is, the grand dress up party. The clothes put on me were – Sailor outfit, Miko dress, Army suit and Queen-like corset etc.

It makes sense that they have memories of these, given these are styles originated from my sketches. It would seem that when they came to the eyes of the female, they really light up their desire for creativity. It was my mistake to not had gotten rid of the wood block of my sketches. Even so, I feel like I’m being exploited like a dress up doll, having to play along with them until they are satisfied. Shion put her heart and soul into this fashion show with dazzling eyes while Shuna recorded the point of improvement. I have given up entirely at the start, knowing that there is no ally among this crowd.

A hard lesson —— If I ever wish to do things carefreely, I must have the resolve for karma to hit back one day!

And so due to my sketches, there will always be more bizarre outfits to be created Because of that, this place soon became known as the holy land for tailors. But that’s a story for another day.

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Hot Spring

It may seem sudden, but to the west of the wetland where the lizardmen inhabit.

A giant underground cave, the natural labyrinth formed through an active volcano. Even the Lizardmen were unable to grasp fully of its interior structure due to the complexity of the countless roads that lies within.

If one insists on walking down one path, it will lead them to a frozen cave world; whereas another leads to a world of burning lava. The ones being hidden seems to lead to magical location that has been hidden due to their danger.

However, the labyrinth isn’t the point for this expedition. It’s because of the existence of active volcano. Since there’s volcano, then there may be hot spring – or so I thought.

◇◇◇ 「Everyone! I want to go bathe in hot spring, so what about it?” 」 My voice echoed in the meeting room, though my thought didn’t seem to channel to everyone too well.

「I mean.. Hot spring is just hot water, right? You can just wash yourself in the river.」「Hm hm, in Dwargon, hot spring is channeled into the bath house, but I didn’t think much of it」

Dwarf Kaijin, Garm seem uninterested, Doldo and Mild also nodded in agreement with Kaijin. Hot spring doesn’t seem to be anything special, well that view isn’t necessarily wrong. But my view is completely different from the dwarves.

「Hot… Spring? What is that supposed to be?」「Seems to be a place accumulating hot water boiled by volcano’s temperature, right?」

Hearing Benimaru’s question, Souei answered that, he is surprisingly knowledgeable. Anyway, to those who has no interest in hot spring, I need to make them understand the beauty of bathing. In terms of hygiene, bathing at bath house can prevent disease; more importantly, as a former Japanese I’ve made up my mind to promote bathing

22 culture and looked forward to enjoying it for that reason. But I suppose I don’t need to mention that.

「Yes! Although not completely correct, there are hot springs without volcano, but we’ll put that aside; As Souei said, to have volcano heat up hot spring would be the aim of this expedition. The variety of constituents dissolve in underground water through the heating is very good for our bodies. It can be said that it is the best cure for a body tiresome from combat.」

After emphasizing that, Benimaru also seems intrigued. 「Sounds pretty good, it would be interesting to try it out.」「Sasuga Rimuru Sama, you sure know a lot.」

It seems they have become interested in my plan, so now all I have to do is to convince the dwarves.

「Moreover, imagine this. You have to wear some clothes while bathing in the river, right? If you’re only washing your body in bathtub you won’t take off your all clothes, but if it’s bathing in hot spring then it is completely reasonable to take off all the clothes.」「No, even so…」「We will be pretty satisfied just with normal shower, right?」「…….」 Eh, I really don’t get this bunch.

「Whatever you guys wish, but at least try to use your imagination a bit, like –」「Ah!?」 Before I could describe things in detail, Kaijin seemed to have realized something. 「…could it be! Master, to think you are ——」 After Kaijin, Garm also figured out what I was trying to say. 「Fufufu, it seems you all have noticed. It is precisely that my friends. It should be heavenly for you guys, don’t you think so?」

My words made everyone slobbered They showed a sudden surge of enthusiasm in their eyes as opposed to the attitude prior.

「Besides, the beauty of hot spring lies in the tradition of mixed bath——」「M-master, allow me to help!」「Of course, we are all companions!」「Hmm…that’s how it is!」「……..!!」

The dwarves also now swear to assist me without hesitation Benimaru seemed to be a little timid by it while Souei showed a “don’t care” look. And so, operation bringing in hot spring to Tempest State is now initiated.

◇◇◇ So why is bathing not possible? No, it doesn’t mean there is no way to bath, the explanation is simple - the high expense. The large amount of wood required to heat the hot spring is indispensable. Although we may recycle the waste from all the construction projects, it is best to not assume it is sustainable. Even though we may collect branches from the forest, cooking also requires fire, so it seems a bit excessive to use firewood for bathing.

Now that the on-field investigation has been completed, we’ve discovered the most suitable source with the right temperature. Now it’s time for me to use my skills, using「Shadow movement」to connect Tempest state and the hot spring using magical steel made pipelines. Even though I was operating from the shadow, I don’t need to concern about breathing, but in another light, how to manage all the pipelines from the shadow space posed me a huge question. And so, I left it all to the care of Great Sage, and for that it was quite easy.

The dwarves decorate the bath house with carved marble. Due to the words「Mixed Bath」, it looks extremely high-end. One can simply feel being surrounded by the high-end decorations, the construction is extremely luxurious. The hot spring later became a sight-seeing spot that reputes around the world, but that’s another story.

Eh, so what happened to「Mixed Bath」? Well, there isn’t such amazing thing in the world

「Ara, this is some great work, as expected of Dwarven craftsman, but please, not only build a FEMALE ONLY, but you should also prepare and build the male only side.」 Said Shuna with a smile on her face, and thus no rebuttal can be raised.

Benimaru comforted the dwarves saying along the line of “it’s good enough to get hot spring’. So they will continue to build the male only bath house ‘enthusiastically’. By the way, since I am a slime, I get to move in the female only side to my heart’s content, but that doesn’t have anything to do with them.

(D: I just want to bath with human form Rimuru ( °͡ ͜ʖ °͡ ) )

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A Pink Scenery Or My Rimuru can’t be so perverted

On the other side of hot steam, there exists an outer heaven. Where everyone hopes to enter, the ideal place.

Cabal and Gido’s envious sights are already quite annoying. But not only Cabal, Kaijin, Garm and the dwarven three-brother also show an envious look.

These guys… they just don’t know when to give up. And no matter how many times I scold them they just continue coming back. As a result, they get a cold stare from Shuna and be beaten up by Shion until they give up.

「Damn it! Master is so cunning.」「Right… Even just one look would——」 Cabal and Gido sheds tears of regret while the dwarves give them some comfort.

This has repeated for many days. While their guts may be commendable, I could only remain silent ---- because, my destination is …… I was carried into the separated room while being hugged by Shion with two hands. Hot spring that is.

Yes, in order to heal from day’s hard work, Shuna and Shion brought me to the female only hot spring. The reasons why they are so persistent in which is sort of understandable. The three ladies surrounding me, are Shion, Shuna and Elen. Bijin (美女)and Bishojo (美少女)6.The three, completely naked, entered the bath with me. This is truly heaven, a feast to the eyes is referring to this.

And today there’s another guest, Demon Lord Milim joining us. 「WHAHAHA! I didn’t expect such a comfortable spot, this truly is a great country!」 Said Milim running around naked. Running around in here is dangerous, or so I reminded her. She’s definitely a super rare Bishojo if she doesn’t talk, while whenever she talks or acts, she becomes very childish. I suppose that’s Milim’s charm… Even so, it’s no doubt she can be called a Bishojo…… and I, I am grateful for my good luck every day.

6 Bijin refers to beauty while Bishojo refers to beautiful youth, I’m not sure how to translate the latter in English so I’ll just refer to them as these terms. 26

◇◇◇ Hot spring is wonderful. Due to the hot spring, I get to enjoy different positive effects it has on me, and so it is then understandable to visit it every day. Even though I was a male, and now a slime. Being transformed into human form, I still have no gender. And so there is no problem when I enter the female only bath house.

Although today is very noisy due to having Milim (which normally it’s very peaceful). I feel very calm as though I’m merging with the surrounding…… giving my body in to Shion and Shuna.

And so, “puwa~puwa” getting bubbles all around, “puyo~puyo” getting rubbed, they cleaned my body carefully. It is just a sight like this which makes up the the daily event that is hot spring...

Even though I don’t appreciate art as a hobby, the sight in front of me still gets my heart pumping fast. Shion has beautiful tight muscle, and her giant, soft mature fruit (bosom) ( °͡ ͜ʖ °͡ ) grows there

While having a slim bodyline, Shuna’s body is chalk white like porcelain, though her mystic fruit ( °͡ ͜ʖ °͡ ) are not large in size, but their beautiful shape can be said to be ideal. Two pale red fruit grain pounds against her tender white skin. Their existence seems to fill up the space within my head.7

Both are great, extremely wonderful.

When it comes to Elen, who is constantly switching her sights between Shion and Shuna, then comparing it back to her own body, she still has much room for growth, but I wouldn’t be too pessimistic about that. It is possible that what the biggest concern to her is just a laugh to me.

——then, it’s the care-free Milim. WHAHAHAH! Like that she laughed, and swimming in the hot spring full of energy. Little kid huh. Mental age of a toddler, probably. But I would like to stress——please stop using me as a floating board

Wait, I can actually float right? Even though I can float, I feel there’s probably something wrong about this. Although it sounds amazing and envying to be used as a Bishojo’s plaything, but I couldn’t agree to this.

7 For the uninformed and pure, Rimuru is talking about their breasts ( ͡° ͜ʖ °)͡ 27

I was in the mid of appreciating beautiful things and suddenly got such treatment. For a moment that I’ve to realized what was happening I thought I would drown. ……No actually, there is no need for me to breath so I wouldn’t really drown.

Shion rescued me from Milim and continued to wash my body as usual… But as Shion tried to use the specially made soap by Shuna to wipe on my body, Milim robbed me from Shion’s hands again.

「Oi, what are you——」 I was shocked. 「WHAHAHA!」 Milim didn’t answer and started stretching me and rubbing herself against my body. 「Oi Don’t use me as a towel——!!」 I shouted unconsciously. I escaped from Milim’s hands in panic, dusting off the soap bubbles and rushed into the hot spring to draw a safe distance away. 「Chee, Rimuru is so selfish.」 Milim twist her mouth regrettably. Hold on a sec, this is completely different from being selfish right? I must not show any opening for her to sneak on me.

However —— For the time I started to keep an extra eye for Milim and her only. Shion and Shuna, started to stare at me like eagle to a prey when all my attention was on Milim and I failed to notice. And so…… When I noticed, my body had already been used as towel by Shion and Shuna. This is – kinda --- no, surprisingly --- comfortable, but I’ve made up my mind to keep this as a secret for life.

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Fishing

On that day, Milim couldn’t keep her cool since the morning. Or rather, she has come to my room near dawn to hurry me up

「Don’t worry, even though I won’t become angry since I don’t need to sleep, but

I may get mad under this type of circumstance you know?」

「What are you talking about! I also only needed a little bit of sleep. That’s all fine, so let’s head out now shall we?」

「Calm down you, that’s not the question in place! Even though we are all good, it’s night time still. Even if we go out this early in the morning, Mister Fish may still be asleep by now.」

Me trying to persuade Milim. It is because tomorrow, or rather today that we have made plan to sneak out of town and go fishing. Milim is looking forward to it way too much, and so she came looking for me since there’s nothing she could do otherwise. The way she acts barely resemble the staidness of a demon lord, but a stubborn brat. Although I’m not sure whether Mister Fish is still asleep, I was able to convince Milim to stay.

Two hours later, It is finally the time to set out as planned, accompanied by a happy Milim. Having a body that does not require sleep really helped me to deal with the collective mind of the world alike that is Milim. We sneaked out of my room and exited the building. Outside of the town, there is Gobuta waiting for us as promised.

「You’re pretty early, I also just arrived.」

「Well pretty much so, though Milim has hurried me many, many, many times….」

「I… see…」

Gobuta nods and seems to be able to sympathize with me.

「WHAAAA! Come on, let’s set out now. I’ll show you guys my real power in this thing called fishing.」

Is it really okay for Milim to make such statement, which seems to have misunderstood something? I’m a bit worried if she gets annoyed and started to make a scene. Milim – I suppose it will be fine if she caught anything, but if not she may get bored easily.

「Is there really no problem?」

Gobuta seems to express the same concern.

「Probab…ly. There isn’t much use to think about it, if it doesn’t work we would just have to stop it.」

「About right then. Then we should be on our way.」

And so, we set out to the sea for the main event – Fishing.

◇◇◇ When the sun shows up with a bright smile, we reached the seaside。 It is my first-time seeing sea in this world, it seems not much different from the sea of earth. Apart from some additional sea creatures, the ecosystem seems to be slightly different as well. But it’s basically the same. We found an area of rocks and set up our spot for fishing.

「What do we do with this?」

「Ah, so you need to combine it like this, and then, hook the bait on it.」

I decided to teach the first-time fisher Milim, who’s very excited for what’s to come,

30 the basics of fishing from rod composition to bait hooking. Gobuta also took out his fishing rod but was immediately halted by me. It’s a self- made fishing rod with short branch bond by fishing rod. It hardly seems usable in the sea.

「Wait a second, that is for river fishing right? It would probably be too much to be used in the sea. Try this one instead.」

I handed over the rod broken by Milim during the prep phase while saying so.

「Yaho~! This one is the stuff!」 Gobuta exclaimed excitingly holding the rod I handed to him.

「If you like it you can keep it. I still have one more ready.」

「Really! Superb!」

Gobuta started fishing happily. Milim also threw his bait, not wanting to be defeated. It is most likely due to that he wanted to compete with Gobuta.

—— So how did it work out… A few hours later,

Milim was surprisingly more patient than I expected. It probably is because she caught two small fish and had her interest intensified.

「You guys must be hungry? it’s about time to make a meal.」 Thus I issued an intermission.

And so, the (ungodly) sight of Milim rolling the bait used for fishing into ball- shape and eating it is witness by my eyes.

「UwU, this is disgusting.」

「No shit.」8

「Even though I thought it must be delicious either way since it’s made by Rimuru,

8 It’s of course it is but why not 31 but…」

Milim shed a sight with resentment towards me while saying so. What kind of thing to say even! Why would I bother to season the fish bait?! I promptly prepared the sandwiches before Milim got mad and distributed among the party.

After that we continued fishing until three in the afternoon and had a long-due vacation. By the way, I caught the most amount of fish. While Gobuta was the second, I gave Milim 10 fish out of courtesy and so the ranking was reversed

「This is supposed to be my first time fishing on the sea…」 Etc. etc, Gobuta exclaimed sadly. At least it’s way better than Milim going berserk out of frustration. Well, or so that I thought——

「WHAAAA! Well then, let’s get serious to compete next time!」

「Just as I wish for!」

As such, Milim and Gobuta made promise of a rematch.

◇◇◇ And so, we returned to the town after a fun day. But the sight of the town seems a bit strange, where everyone seems to be out looking for someone

「It would seem they are looking for someone, could it… be us??」

「Hmm, that would be strange. I remember leaving a memo so that they don’t get worried…」

「——Memo? Speaking of forgetting stuff. Look, here’s the stuff you dropped,

Rimuru is sure easily panicked!」

Milim responded to me proudly while holding what is undoubtedly my memo Milim for crying out loud, what have you done!? We are just supposed to sneak out…

「Hey!? That’s exactly it!!」

「 Wait, this is a terrible situation! It would be reasonable that everyone is panicking!」 Gobuta’s and my face started turning purple as we stare at each other Not only did we sneak out, we didn’t even leave any contact method… We are definitely getting scolded…

And after that —— Shion and Shuna with scary faces scolded us all harshly after finding us.

And after that, within a period, going out without informing others was prohibited. But that’s a story for another day.

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Gobuta’s Training Day

Morning! This is Gobuta. Today I’m going to talk about the old man’s… no, Hakuro Sensei’s training. At the beginning of the training, he taught me about「Danger Detection」

「Gobuta, the important thing is to never allow sneak attack to take place. If you learn the ability ‘Magical Detection’ then it should be alright. For now, there’s still a long way for you. So for now you should learn to sense the atmosphere to detect danger.」

Even though I was lectured so seriously, I was still completely lost on the subject. 「Huh~hmm, Is that so?」 And so I decided to pass this one on like this——

Siiia——!

I immediately felt the pain on the back of my hand after hearing the sound. 「Ayaa!」

I fell in tears with the sudden pain

「Wait, Sen-Sensei! What have you done?」 I regretted greatly after hearing the reason.

「You idiot, do not get careless! Before you learn to detect danger around you, you better believe I am always aiming at you. If you don’t want anymore painful memory, you’d better watch around yourself and beware of all attacks!」

And such. These are words that are gonna cause me a lot of trouble This Old Man, he’s not kidding around! Even though I wanted to complain, I gave up immediately after seeing his eyes. It is a grin that can only be put on by a devil.

「Do be reassured. This Wooden knife can only double the pain, but its physical

34 damage is in term reduced… And I would not use my full force, so hitting a time or two won’t kill you.」

Oi oi, this old man is really crazy and reckless! A time or two won’t matter, but it would probably be horrible for a couple times more ?!

「Wait!? That means if I get hit multiple times ——」

「Listen well now Gobuta, you don’t want to die right? Then you have only one answer! Master it and show me. First detect my killing aura and show me your 「Danger Detection」!」

Alas my doubts were completely ignored, and Haruko Sensei promptly left after making such one-sided speech. And from that day onward, it begins my life of being in danger every day.

◇◇◇ For real now, what kind of sick joke is this! I rub my head in pain and complain again

「And I was told so by him…」

「I see, Hakuro’s training can really be tough.」

「Souei San thinks so too? That old man really has no idea how to cut slack, doesn’t him?」

「Although I would agree to that, are you sure you are good being so careless?」

「Of course. Surely Souei San would be able to sense that old man approaching?

Then, it must be safe here!」

「——Hmm!?」

For things that I cannot do, it is only reassuring for me to stay around people who are capable of. To me that that is the perfect plan.

「Besides, how come「Danger Detection」be such simple skill to learn. It is just him swinging a wooden sword over and over every day. It sure it’s hard for those who are getting hit. How did Souei San and your friends make it through?」

「…Hmm. In the case of Benimaru, he was able to learn「Magic Detection」 while on the stage of learning「Danger detection」. And he began swordsmanship training almost without any hardship. I also sensed the aura quite naturally and moved on to the next level.」

「I see… then it’s no use trying to use it as a reference…」

「If that’s what you are doing, perhaps Shion can give you a better reference.」

「Is that so? Then I shall go get some advice from Shion San!」

「Ahah. You should be more cautious before going…」

Souei San and Benimaru San are too different and can’t be used as reference. If it is Shion San, she must be able to understand my hardship. I should go listen to her advice.

After parting with Souei and heading towards the canteen Shion San was located…. For some unknown reason, Souei San sent me off with eyes of pity. This kinda bugs me. Mah, it’s probably just him reminiscent of his past training…

「Is the conversation over, Gobuta?」

「Piyaa!?」

I was too Naïve. I’ve been betrayed! Souei San must have noticed it mid-conversation.

「Who did you call an Old Man, you idiot!」 I saw the wooden sword coming down as I heard the shout Could this be what「Danger Detection」is about? 36

But it is already too late. And so I got another beating from Hakuro Sensei this time as well.

—— As the lesson for the day, depending on others’ ability is dangerous. That’s what I’ve learnt.

* After that I was able to hear many meaningful things from Shion San.

「Don’t think it as something too complicated Gobuta. It really gets worse as it goes. If you feel that just try to avoid it. If you keep repeating it then there shouldn’t be any problem! Well, compared to that——」

I received advice with a smile In simple terms, I suppose it’s my sixth sense. Although it is understandable

「I’m very confident in my cooking today! Please Gobuta, come try it out and tell me what you think!」

This is bad. This is REALLY BAD! A dangerous aura (smell) slowly emits that puts Hakuro Sensei’s training to shame.

Now, for real! I am experiencing「Danger Detection」

《Confirmed, Extra Skill「Danger Detection」acquiring… Successful》

Wow! Is this Real! I was able to achieve the goal from the unexpected. Sasuga Souei san, it really is useful

But…. It seems eating that thing would definitely be dangerous, so I gotta run right now! Well then, see you next time!

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Milim and Honey

Milim Nova is a Demon Lord. In her long and tenacious life, was never defeated. To take away some boredom in life she visited a town and encountered a Mamono9. Even though it has overwhelming magic power and magical ability, it causes no challenge in Milim’s eyes. After greeting each other, Milim decides to observe its attitude. And as it flowed, it became a situation of one on one against that Mamono, Rimuru. She wins If she can sustain the opponent’s attack, match’s rule is simple as that.

(No matter what kind of attack, even a sneak attack, all won’t work on me!)

Milim was filled with confidence And her excitement only grows thinking about things that may be out of her expectations (Well then, what type of attack would him use to cheer me up?)

Rimuru in human form charged towards Milim without hesitation. Milim gets even more exciting

「Then, Eat This (literally) !」

「Hmm----!?」 What was thrown, a water ball But, can’t feel any power with it

(Could it be poison? Now that would be a boring trick…) Milim has complete resistance against poison 。 And to think this Mamono called Rimuru has decided to use this type of trick, he isn’t as interesting as she expected.

Milim was disappointed and feels kinda lonely (I’ve lost my interest, I’ll just beat up this guy. I’ll be sure to make Karion regrets this ---)

As she thought so, she licked the ball that bounced off her mouth.

9 Mamono (魔物) means Magical Being (often refers to magical monster, or magical creatures/animals), fyi Majin (魔人) means magical born human/humanoid so don’t confused the two. 38

At that moment, a shock is released within her body. (What is this !? This is so delicious!!) What leaked from that water ball was a sensation of sweetness she has never experienced prior, to the extent of numbing her body.

「Kukuku, what is it now Demon Lord Milim? If you want to do anything to me now, the truth about it (water ball) will forever be buried in the dark——」

Although Milim heard Rimuru’s voice, she has no time to concern his words. What is in this delightful sweet has already been analyzed. It possesses multiple nutrients and it’s distilled from nectar – most likely honey. With Milim’s ability「Milim Eye」, the analysis of the components is a piece of cake

The problem lies in the difficulty in this level of distillation It definitely isn’t just normal honey, there are some thrilling components within in. (This is… nectar? But how is it made so to be so tasty and sweet…?)

The sensations on the tip of her tongue, sweetness are top notch. From its function, it is capable of recovering all abnormal status to normal, even to the extent of healing uncurable diseases in an instant.

This and that are all proves that this honey possesses extreme high nutritious value From what she could imagine, it is most likely that Rimuru has utilized Mamono highly capable of distillation to collect nectar from blossoms of rare flowers. However, she has never seen the type of honey produced with such care and time in place.

——In other word, it is a first for Milim who has lived for so long to experience such deliciousness. And so, at the end of confrontation, the whole thing was rebounded to a “Draw”

Anything besides victory has been rare in Milim’s long-lasting life. However, she regrets nothing there. Not only so, she was able to obtain a sense of excitement that has never been felt before

「Well, then from today on we are friends.」 Rimuru’s words kept echoing in her head.

Wuhu-WUHUHU, her facial expression distorted, having unable to hold up this irrepressible laughter (Friends huh, that’s a really nice reply!) To Milim whom is considered the strongest, it is already rare for an equal to exist. Most of the people feels fear towards Milim, and so the notion of making friend never occurred to her. But this Mamono named Rimuru, seems to have the least care for it and announced it so frankly. Milim was truly happy about that.

And so Milim has got a friend and said farewell to the boring days.

◇◇◇ Many different dishes are produced where Rimuru resides. Every day she gets treated. The people worshipping Milim are simple people, their cuisines all exist so as to display the materials as themselves. Thus, such elegant dishes with so much thought put into it, are all new to Milim.

In truth, Milim once thought that eating was completely unnecessary, which turns out to be a huge mistake. Tempura10, burger meat, steak and Croquette, as well as Fried Shrimp11 Here, there are truly all kinds of cuisines To the extent that makes Milim regret not having paid more thoughts to food.

「The meals here, are truly all delicious!」

「I know that already, so please stop eating sweets while having meals.」

「Why?」

「That’s just the rules. If you don’t pay attention to the taste of the cuisine and just eat it, it wouldn’t that be disrespected towards the makers?」

「Alright I know. But, what are you eating there?」

Milim stared at the white, fragrant dish that Rimuru is eating.

10 天ぷら：Japanese cuisine, Food such as fish, shrimp, vegetable that are fried with wheat flour 11 エビフライ: Ebi Fry 40

「This is dessert after meal, some freshly made pancakes!」

「WHAT! So dessert are different than sweets?」

「Totally different, it’s fine because it helps to adjust the taste bums after meal.」

「Ohhhh!」

Milim finished dinning after shouting. She finished so early as the only remaining food are bitter vegetables.

「Uwah, they are still quite bitter.」

「Don’t just leave the vegetables, you have to eat it with the food. That’s what happens when you leave the things you dislike out.」

「This matters not, please give me some of those pancakes!」

「Alright I get it. The taste would change if we add serums, so which one would you add?」

In front of her were different jams and honey. Milim grabbed one of the bottles without hesitation. 「You sure like honey.」

「WHAHAHA! That is most certain!」

The pancake didn’t betrayal Milim’s expectation either, it was as delicious as she imagined. Milim thought to herself as she ate the last piece. Although the sour and sweet Jams taste nice too, but no doubt only Honey – It’s number one! ——Of course it is.

Because that honey to Milim, it’s the “taste of happiness” And so, another day begins, another happy day.

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Geld and Work

My name is Geld. I am the one who inherited the will and name of the orc lord. We failed in our conquer and now server among the reign of Rimuru Sama. That is, most fortunate in hard time such as this.

Not being treated like surrendered slaves and spent the days in misery. Instead we were received mercy out of our imagination and was treated with kindness. ——and so, days without starving began.

To me, the who granted me the inheritance of the name Geld, was Rimuru Sama, who was our enemy at the time. Rimuru Sama granted me ‘name’ and ‘work’. He shared with us a piece of his great power as well. And it is because of that, my brethren received strength to survive in this cruel world.

Brethren dispersed in different locations, having their own place of residence, devoting to their duties. Even though there were many difficulties during the start. Everyone now is able to connect and help among others to continue making a living. All of these have been according to Rimuru Sama’s will.

Connecting roads, Town to town, village to village, tribe to tribe. From the mountains that lacked food, collecting mines. Fish from the lakes, cereals from wetland, wild vegetables from the plains. And receiving all sorts of the gifts of the Forest. Exchanging them based on the needs of other parties These are roads built for that purpose

Improving the efficiency of transportation will undoubtedly eliminate starvation as well. To us who were once forced to the brink of extinction, the life now is undoubtedly fulfilled as if it’s a dream. Knowing that all types of food sources get distributed equally among the tribes. (D: Commie Slime)

As long as one works, one’s life is ensured. Knowing this, I dully yet uprightly continued working “One who does not work won’t get to eat anything” These are words of Rimuru Sama

Food can be ensured through working. What a wonderful thing. In the past, to be exploited, be in fear with hunger and not even having the strength to work. And Now, be able to be full just through working You can’t even compare the two We are the fortunate ones, that continued from the moment we joined This happiness, I must protect it to the end --- Indeed, tis my heartful promise.

◇◇◇

「Hey hey, you are overworking yourself Geld Kun.」

「Is that so Rimuru Sama? Although I hardly feel that way…」

「That being said, you are already working on street cleaning for the Dwargon residents, trainings of soldiers and connecting roads among different tribes in Jura forest… that’s way too much work!」

「Hahaha, there is no need to be worried. Also, most building related work are also under Mirudo Sama’s supervision」

「No-no-no, I know about that. I’m not only worrying about the supervision, but the operators too. You know that The orcs with us have been overworking to the point of fainting, right?」

「Please be reassured, we are not that weak. It is simply a difference in training method, more importantly, we feel happy about work.」

「You Idiot! My point is that anything being overly done are bad news whether you are happy or not.」

He got mad at me. Indeed, once being told so, I can see the tiring expression on everyone’s face. It may have been due to my good regenerative ability that I haven’t noticed the accumulation of tiredness. To me in such state, Rimuru Sama said.

「Besides that, you have to find other values in living aside from work, also go 43 explore some other interests. Like fishing, painting, crafting etc. Your fingers are quite agile, it may make you happy as well if you go help Kaijin with some crafting, no?」

Crafting… as such? Although I don’t have much interest in fishing or painting, I seemed to take some interest in crafting.

And Rimuru Sama showed me some very well-made human Doll

「This was the Magic Doll made for Demon Lord Ramiris. It has joints and is capable of complex actions. Isn’t it interesting? You should try it out to, wouldn’t it be also enjoyable? And beside that I also have——」

While saying so, Rimuru sama showed me different models of dolls. Saying that in the near future, to make other new models Horse carriage and building. I’ve not seen many things other than those. However, I’m most interested in the one that looks like a rectangular box with multiple wheels ----- think it is called a train or something.

「This is a train alright, when you drive it on a prepared road, you can arrive at destination at fast speed.」 Rimuru Sama smiled and explain to me.

In hearing the plan, a doubt within me is answered. I have always thought incredible about only applying stone on half of the road that built across the majority of the forest. So it must have been because, one day we will apply train wrecks on them and allow train to run on them. Rimuru Sama pulled out a model of the train wreck and allowed the model train to run on it.

「Just like this, but before the actual thing is constructed, why don’t you try experimenting with the model, wouldn’t that be interesting? If it’s you, surely this can also acts as an enjoyable hobby.」

So that’s what is it, I thought to myself.

To have interest inserted into work ---- Sasuga Rimuru Sama. In the near future of joy, there is new work awaiting me. I become quite motivated being told so.

And then—— I am now contented Without starvation and overflowed with fulfillment in my heart To serve the great master and get more work And then I received it, new interests. And before that, more work awaits What satisfying joy this is. Rimuru Sama not only stopped the hunger, but also brought fulfillment to our heart. As expected of Rimuru Sama. As I exclaim, I also swear higher loyalty towards him.

Back to catalogue

Good Opponent

Gabiru gradually feels enraged as he grows Hippocout grass in the cave everyday.

「 Aiyi, speaking of Souka, rumor is that she has improved greatly of late.

Wouldn’t she be one day stronger than me if this continues?」

「That’s true, Souka-sama was already a capable warrior worthy of being the captain of Abil-sama’s Elite bodyguards and has since been a force to reckon with next to Gabiru-sama. With her training under Souei-sama, her current abilities may be immeasurable compared to her past self.」

「Indeed. Her execution against the megalodon during the Charybdis crisis was fantastic. This and that might have all been thanked to Souei-sama’s training.」

Gabiru agrees to the words of his subordinates. They have no problem at all acknowledging the power of Souka who is from the same clan as them, and thus simply express their opinion to each other.

「That’s gotta be the case. But it can’t be helped that we haven’t been put in more important role. We are still outsiders and were once hostile towards Rimuru-sama. We should be grateful to be accepted as companions. Moreover, I’m started to gain more interest in the plantation of this Hippocout grass——」

「That’s true.」

「Indeed, indeed.」

Gabiru gained support from his subordinates, then exclaimed the reason that is causing him angry. 「——However! Souka not only gained such important task as espionage, she is also gaining strength at the same time! This may not be good. If this is to continue, I may lose my dignity as a senior to her, further making me shamed in front of her! Don’t you guys think in order to be one’s senior, one has to be stronger in comparison?」

「Ga-Gabiru-sama….」

「Perhaps you are thinking too much…」

「No, no. The Mamono in this cave, are unable to pose any threat at this point. If we continue to live like this we may lose our sense of crisis. My spear-work may also get dull over time. And thanks to Rimuru sama’s favor in dispatching Hakuro- dono as our guide, there’s no problem in basic training and troop formation exercise… But this is not nearly enough! Couldn’t there be anything else significant enough that the likes of us can be of use! Especially in this town where you can’t shine if you are master of none…」

Regardless, Hakuro’s weapon of choice is sword, and I have no other way than to work hard in order to improve my spear-work——Gabiru thought to himself.

「Indeed. Setting us aside, the Mamono in the cave is really no threat to Gabiru- sama…」

「Hn-hmm… Souka-sama received Souei-sama’s comman——no, guidance and so received improvement. Nansou, Hokusou, Touka and Saika are seen growing as well, indeed what is needed is opponent of similar strength, it was my presumptuousness.」

「….Indeed, yes. My ability is indeed a bit higher than yours. But, an opponent, hmm…」

So did Gabiru’s party whisper and complain. Meanwhile, someone is giving them a cold look. That is Besta. From Besta’s point of view, when they exclaimed that the threat that dwells within this cave is no threat is the proof that they are strong enough. And since they’ve already become so strong, what’s the point in pursuing more strength?

Plus, before that…. (That type of things can wait, could you guys start separating the Hippocout from the weeds….) Besta thought to himself and sighed internally.

Gabiru’s party started their discussion again during the work break. A man came towards them as they discuss

「Hu·Hu·Hu, I’ve heard of your complaints!」

It’s Gobuta. Besta half-telling, half-complained told Gobuta during meal about Gabiru and their concerns.

「Oh-oh, Gobuta-dono. I see you are able to enter here without even using a magic formation. It would seem your ability has grown quite a bit.」

「Of course! You get to do those types of things even if you hate them when having to spend time with that old man.」 Gobuta said it with pride.

「So, what seems to be the issue?」

Gabiru asked. Gobuta cut to the trace with his question. 「To be an opponent, that is. Allow me to be Gabiru-san’s opponent.」

「Nani!?」

Gabiru was shocked by this response, yet upon second thought it doesn’t seem to be such bad a proposal.

If he see this from pure strength Gabiru is no doubt stronger. Yet Gabiru has always been defeated by Gobuta. Those were due to Gobuta’s wit and good combat coordinations, which Gabiru himself lacks. Gabiru is well aware of such coordination. He also gained the advice of “having technique is far from being strong. At the point of life and death, the inability to react can be lethal.” From Hakuro. Recalling this, Gabiru thought to himself that through Gobuta’s bizarre fighting style, it would help him to improve his reaction speed.

「I understand now, that sound like a great proposal, however, Gobuto-dono’s

48 job——」

「Just call me Gobuta. For me, I want to learn about using spear. And here is a weapon I got through quite the trouble to get from Rimuru-sama, I want to practice and master it as well.」

Gobuta showed his kodachi while saying so. Despite being a kodachi, it is a magical weapon that would transform into an ice spear upon being covered in water. Gobuta is unable to master the way of using a spear himself, hence why he is looking for a training partner.

「Very well, Gobuta-dono. No, Gobuta, from today onward, I would teach you the way of the spear, and in return——」

「I’ll be Gabiru-san’s opponent and teach you the ways to fight dirty.」

「Hmm! I look forward to training with you, Gobuta.」

「The feeling is mutual!」

As the two shakes hand, a new friendship is born. And soon it’s to be turned into a secret relationship of competitiveness. While Besta gives an ice-cold look towards the two in a distance . ——Gabiru-dono is such a simple man. And what in the world is “the ways of fighting dirty”—— his eyes were filled with desire to argue….

But Besta who since has learnt to read the air remained silent on the matters. Among the three, there is no doubt that Besta is the one who has matured the most.

Back to catalogue

Roads of Delicacy

Garde Myourmiles is a famous merchant.

Apart from that, he’s also the head of the illegal organization that it’s the underworld of Blumund Kingdom. An arrogant man, strict with his money and will never back down to flatter even if he’s against nobles——Such comments of him are common across Blumund kingdom, even known by the people of Ingracia. However, in reality Myourmiles is hardly a cruel and ruthless man. He has surprisingly loyal and caring personalities.

He allocates works to the poor and orphans to ensure their basic welfares. Letting debt borrowers work for themselves when they are unable to repay——or so Myourmiles explains it himself. Speaking of which, it is Myourmiles who’s been organizing work for spare labor that couldn’t work for the freedom association.

It is because who Myourmiles is in real life that put him in good term with even the royals of Blumund kingdom. Since it would be more convenient for him to accept work contracts, he has made favors and ways in many places. . It is with these, it’s a piece of cake for him to earn favors from the nobles through debt collecting. Myourmiles has been able to firmly accumulate power and strengthen his territory in this way. As a result, he was able to earn his place and voice in Blumund kingdom with an ordinary industry.

I came to Blumund kingdom to meet Myourmiles who are capable of all these.

For two goals this time: In order to officially set off the operation of hotels with manpower provided by him Additionally letting him help me in collecting food ingredients.

In terms of manpower, The Goblins under my administration has been trained well in customer service with Besta’s guidance. The quality of their service could probably satisfy visitors such as Duke Galabia or king Gazel.

However, there’s an immense short-coming due to a lack of talents in money- managing staff. It will take at least a couple of months to even teach them elementary arithmetic. It’s a time-consuming process for these guys, so they can’t just pick up skills by studying in their free time during work. But it’s only natural that it came to this considering these Mamono have never been required to study for their life. A bunch who has good muscle memories yet lacking in browns.

The capable ones can simply obtain the skills through feelings. Those who aren’t capable have to learn through hard work and gaining experience through work themselves.

As the latter method would undoubtedly be accompanied with failure, it became necessary for us to find backup personal. And so I decided to pay a visit to Myourmiles who’s well-known among merchants who’re good at accounting.

However, the real goal of my visit is to let him help me in collecting new food ingridients to develop new merchandise. For instance, ramen that I recalled since the last meeting.

Not the instant noodle type——but to recreate the real deal.

There’s cake in this world, too, so I may even find ramen somewhere if I am careful enough. I was hoping Myourmiles would find out about these types of stuff for me. If all attempts fail, then it would be time for Raphael sensei to do her thing.

《Answer. Food name: Ramen; Analysis completed. Necessary ingredients are—》

Huhhuhhuh, sasuga, SASUGA RAPHAEL SENSEI.

The names of the food ingredient start to show up in my head non-stop. All of the necessary ingredients have been marked with their places of origin with perfect translation. Only thing remains is collection.

But there’s the problem. Residents in my country do not have permits to enter other countries. Although I’m fine as an adventurer, no one else could fill in the role of importing. This is thus another significant challenge.

So I’ve come to discuss with Myourmiles-kun about it. Then I should probably head to Myourmiles’ shop in Blumund quickly.

「Myourmiles-kun, I’ve come to play~!」

I greeted rather casually while lifting the curtain and entered the rather luxorious entrance But at that instant——

「Oi Brat, where do you think you are running into?」

My greet only attracted a yakuza (mafia) looking clerk A couple of his type showed up from the back of the shop after hearing noises outside.

Are, isn’t this strange? I came in so casually because of Myourmile’s word “you can drop by anytime you want Rimuru-sama!”

「 Myourmiles ——kun?? my ass?! You god damn brat, how dare you call

Myourmiles-san in that manner!」

「Oi, don’t you know you will get your ass kicked with that type of attitude?」

「We won’t let this go easily even if you cry, ya bastard!」

They all show the same expression and shouting rude things to me. Are you all some chinpira (thug) out of the same street? I kinda want to complain about that.

「Aiya, I’m truly sorry. I was told to drop by any time so——」

「Piece of shit! Myourmiles-san won’t ever give a second look at brat like you!!」

「He, he, he, mah, she looks pretty cute though, are you planning on tricking

Myourmile-san?」

「Sorry kid, that guy likes the type of woman who’s busted and tight in the right places! He won’t ever take you with only a pretty face.」

「You really shouldn’t go tricking people. But, we don’t mind having some fun with you.」

My words are being surpassed by the clerks’. And I’m getting angry with some of the thugs giving disturbing looks at the wrong places.

「Fellows, I’m Myourmiles-kun’s friend, you know?! Also, I’m a man, not woman.

And I’m not planning to trick him in the first place!」

I straighten my chest andannounced this to stand my ground. Mah, though I was going to borrow some money from him this time…… However, this would be a great deal for him as well.

Myourmiles seems to have earned great profit through the healing potions trades, which was an idea I came up for him in making money. Through the sale of healing potion in the country he got to develop new industry in local area. And through these new industries he came up with new merchandise.

To put it nicely I’m here to persuade him into financing me, in other words, to try and trick his funds. I’d be happy, Myourmiles’d be happy. And so we may make a lot of money with this idea and maintain a win-win relationship in mind.

Normally, “chance to make some money” would probably make on suspicious. I would definitely say no to that. “Absolute money maker!” If anyone ever say that, they are 100% considered con- artists instantly.

HOW-EVER! This time, it’s truly profitable. It will definitely make money since even Raphael sensei also agree it will profitable. This time, I will definitely convince Myourmile and let him accept it. This is absolutely not fraud, my conscious does not hurt at all. And it is for that reason I could respond feeling justified——

「Shut up! Who are you trying to fool here?」

「Talking apparently won’t work, ya want me use my buddy here to sort things out for you?」

These people won’t even listen at all, and there stands a guy trying to intimidate me with sword sheathed around his belt.

Aya, aya this is really… I sigh in heart. It really can’t be helped since I’m not familiar with Myourmile’s underlings. It would seem I could only communicate with brute force——as I was going to give up, someone familiar entered from the back of the shop.

「Oi, what the hell are you all fighting over in front the shop!」

I turn to the direction of the voice, there stands a man I miss——It’s Bydd.

The man Cabal met in Blumund, the man who once was a con-man.

After he was hired as Myourmiles’ bodyguard I met him again in Ingracia kingdom…. Looks like our fate intertwines again, it would seem he has been formally employed by Myourmiles after that.

「Yo, isn’t this Bydd, how are you doing lately?」

「Ah? I-Isn’t this Rimuru-sama! Yes! Thanks to you I, no, humble me12 has been doing great! It only matters that Rimuru-sama looks so energetic! !」

Bydd straightens himself upon seeing me and saluted me with a 90 degree bow with great respect. What a dramatic guy.

「That’s great to know. Speaking of which, these guys won’t let me into the shop and it’s been a pain. Can you convince them that I’m actually Myourmile’s friend?」

Bydd should be a D+ adventure, I heard afterward that he got levelled up to Level C. So I suppose he’s more sensible than these guys here. I was asking him to help with that in mind and it turned out even smoother than I had imagined.

「Y-you guys, do you wish to ruin this store!? That is THE Rimuru-sama!!」

These fellows who were just upset with me all started to tremble on the spot hearing Bydd’s shout. Everyone started to line up like Bydd and plead guilty to me.

「「「 We are Tru-truly sorry!! Please forgive us——」」」

As they finish, they all bow to me deeply There were tears in everyone’s eyes. A bunch of grown ass men all trembling out of fear. I initially thought they were just afraid of Bydd, but it would seem they have

12 There is a change of prononune from Ore to Wata to show respect to Rimuru. 55 realized who I am. I didn’t expect to scare them like that but I’m after all, a demon lord these days. Myourmile must have learnt that and told these guys. Then it wouldn’t be strange to tremble upon hearing my name alone.

If I have known that, I should have just told them my name. With this crowd, they will probably just let me pass after hearing my name.

「I’ll give these assholes a good lesson afterward but do forgive them for now.」

People lowers his head as he says so, so I had to agree with him immediately. Yet still, with my pardon, those guys look their heads are about to be served on a plate as they are taken away.

「Th-that person was the demon lord——」

「That’s completely different from what Myourmiles-san’s drwaing, no?!」

「You’re kidding, right? Tell me it’s all a lie….」

「A-are we getting killed…...?」

——etc.

I seem to have overheard some bizarre thing from their crying, but I would ignore it for now. ※

「Ayo ayo Rimuru-sama! It’s an honor that you have visited us!」

「Don’t be so rigid with me, Myourmiles-kun! We go way back after all!」

Myourmiles laughs along hearing that happily. His enormous, obese body, a symbol of his wealth, jiggles with his laughter. But, he is truly an ace merchant.

「Hahaha, it truly makes me happy to have you say such a thing. So what have

Rimuru-sama come for this time?」

As he said so, he immediately switched to a more nervous look and ask me. So I also enter negotiation mode with a grin.

「As a matter of fact, I’ve brought something highly profitable for you this time.」

「Oh? And what could that be?」

「So basically——」

I explain to him in detail while sipping the red tea served by the female clerk from his shop. Myourmiles shows an awkward expression and fell silent after hearing about the development of new merchandise.

「Given it is orders from Rimuru-sama who’s taken much care of me in the past, whether if it’s selecting credible talents or purchasing food materials I would happily take the jobs. However, to find personal for R&D of new merchandise, that would be….」

Myourmiles is a merchant so having him innovating on new food ideas would probably be hard. Even if he’s good at channeling the new products to existing merchandise, to develop new merchandise seems far beyond his abilities. However, my goal is only to get the ingredients for the food. After which, we will be taking over.

「No, no. We’ll cover that part. Myourmiles-kun. I only hope you can transport the ingredients to my town. After the new merchandise are complete, I’m planning to supply them to hotels on the road to Blumund. So I’ll have to rely on you again for the supply of the ingredients by that time.」

「I see….. In other words, if Rimuru-sama’s plan works out, I would be get to add new merchandise in my trade. Is that so?」

「That is exactly the case. If the new merchandise gets popularized, you can also sell them in other stores owned by you.」

「What! But, wouldn’t that cut Rimuru-sama from the monopoly…」 57

「 About that, didn’t I just mention about getting financing. Since you’ve contributed monetarily already, it is only reasonable to share the profits when it returns.」

I’m not done just after I return the money when the business become successful. I made sure to elaborate on that point. Myourmiles also seems to gradually gain more interest, listening and nodding as I go.

「I understand now. Very interesting! Then allow me to assist you!!」

Myourmiles then promised me with a plan of financing . He’s easier than I imagined Kukuku Myourmiles-kun, you are way too easy.

Since the necessary task is done, I have to ask about something

「Speaking of which, I’ve been noticing from just now….」

「Myourmiles stopped and turned to me as Myourmiles was handing over the contract to confirm with me.」

「Is there something wrong?」

「Yeah, about that. There’s a painting over there on the wall, is that a painting of me?」

In that reception room filled with expensive yet tasteless furnitures just to show off his wealth, only that painting decorating on the wall seems unique and out of place. The painting depicts a beautiful female confronting a dragon, whose appearance seem way too mature and doesn’t match me at all.

「Kufufufu, it’s exactly that! It is painted by a famous artist according to the scene where you saved me in Ingracia.」

Myourmiles seems to have his switch ticked and started to give speeches It would seem he has utilized magic to extract his actual feeling during the time in order to never forget the moving feeling during the time. But seriously, this exaggeration is a bit over the top.

Mah, but my appearance originally belongs to Shizu-san So I can’t really deny when being called a beauty, but being drawn like this——it makes me look like a goddess glowing with holiness.

「Aiya, but isn’t this a little too exaggerated?」

「Not at all! I think this is hardly sufficient still!」

So I got in a bad spot upon pointing out it, having been refuted by Myourmiles and had him recalling details of his situation at the time enthusiasticly The female clerk seems rather accustomed to the situation as she came to refill the red tea, it would seem this type of activity is rather mundae.

On second thought, even if I gave my name to those thugs looking after the shop, they probably won’t be able to tell I am Rimuru from the painting. After all, if they are used to looking at the adult version of me on the painting, there probably can’t imagine the real Rimuru is someone who looks like a kid. Never mind, there’s no use concerning myself with that.

I should tyr to show others my current appearance more from now on so they won’t mistaken me again.

◇◇◇ Myourmiles followed the contract and purchased massive amount of food ingrredients from different countries. But, should I say as expected? I couldn’t find cuisine resembling ramen anywhere. So let’s proceed as our deal states and develop some new cuisines. 。 More and more precious and unique ingredients are being transferred. My most loyal and efficient chefs will be expecting them at the brand new kitchen.

Among them it’s Gobuchi, who’s been training under Shuna from the start. He was extremely upset when his kitchen was wrecked by Shion, and I was able to bait him into my scheme under the condition of building him a new kitchen.

These cuisines can be easily recreated if I ask Shuna for help. But if that’s we choose to rely on shuna’s cooking, there will be too much burden on her at the end of the day. So this time I decided to bring in my own development team. Definitely not hoping to earn some extra cash for myself.

「So, what type of cuisine are we making, Rimuru-sama?」

I grin and hand over the product to Gobuchi after he asked. It is a bowl of Ramen completed within my 「stomach」.

「Th-this is !?」

Gobuchi swallows his saliva as he stares at the ramen.

「Try it out.」

「Yes sir, here I go then…」.

Gobuchi started to taste the ramen upon finishing the sentence. He’s rather handy with chopsticks likely due to observation of my usage. Gobuchi nodded to me hard as he takes each bite of the ramen and let its taste sink in.

「 This is amazing, Rimuru-sama! This thing will definitely take everyone’s heart!」

He started exclaiming with joy on his face.

「Right? Isn’t it delicious?」

「This is beyond delicious! So, how in the world do you make this?」

「Ha~Ha~Ha, that would be your job to find that out!」

「——Aiii?」

Gobuchi’s face freezes with confusion hearing my laughing answer. He didn’t seem to have catch what I mean and kept on blinking as he thinks That is precisely my intent after thinking through. It would be meaningless to just produce it with my ability. We have to find out the recipe step-by-step. This is precisely why I’ve summoned you. But your surprised look is really giving me headache now.

「Listen Gobuchi, you can use this kitchen to your heart’s content. You get to use everyone of the ten disciples here. And so I hope you are able to find out a recipe of ramen available for everyone with this bowl as reference.」

I told him so while teaching him all I know about ramen making. How to make the noodles, how to cook the browth as well as other general information regarding ramen making. But I’m completely ignorant on details of its making, so I’ll have to rely on Gobuchi and his crews’ efforts.

「……in other words, there are things that even Rimuru-sama doesn’t know—— no… I get to do whatever I want right?」

「That’s right. I’ve given you a completed version, you just go ahead and research it as a reference to whatever end you wish.」

Although I feel conflicted in heart given how reckless this is, I still feel justified saying so. After all, this is the most crucial part of the plan, I’d have to go regardless of how much of a mess it may lead to. I plan to recreate even more cuisines from my original world. And I’ve chosen Ramen as step one of my keikaku. I can’t just give up now!

Gobuchi seems to have read the air and answered to my hope.

「I understand. If it’s Rimuru-sama’s request, I shall attempt it with all my efforts!」

「Oh oh, you are truly reliable. Good luck, I have faith in you!」

And so Gobuchi agreed easily. He has obtained a new kitchen built by Geld and helped facilitating both my

61 interests and business——no, new commercial endaevour, he seems rather over- joyed by it. Thank you Gobuchi. From now onw he will probably work very hard as well, and I only need to wait for results.

◇◇◇ After which, things went smoother than I had imagined. I was able to push the responsibilities entirely onto other people——ingredient purchasing to Myourmiles and the specific cuisine details to Gobuchi. Myourmiles doesn’t seem to care about the budget while Gobuchi doesn’t seem to care for sleeping.

What about me? My job is to be everyone’s back-up (cheerleader). Play cute and poke at Myourmile’s fat tummy for more money, singing a song to support an exhausted Gobuchi. As soon as the two show a smile, one would spit out the money while the other would jump up and continue working.

At last, the three flavours of ramen including Soy sauce, Miso and Pork bone were successfully reacreated, alongside with the choice of thick or light broth. Other merchandise such as dry-fish broth and white chicken broth was able successfully developed.

「Amazing! Sasuga Gobuchi!」

「Hmm, this is indeed delicious. As expected of Rimuru-sama’s food suggestion.」

I’m very satisfied and giving out the passing comment. Now this will definitely work well as a merchandise for trading.

Myourmiles who’s been called to test tatse the food also seems satisfied, commemorating its deliciousness.

「Thank you gentlemen! I’m now very confident in making ramen.」

「Hmmhmm, with that spirit I’ll rely on you with the remainder of the plan.」

「Yes si——ah, ARE? Hasen’t the development of Ramen ended already?」 62

「That’s true, Rimuru-sama. We already have so many varieties, it would be more than sufficient to open shops with these, right?」

The two express doubts as they both thought the plan is over. Naïve~ How could my ambition be ended with just ramen

「Ku~ku~ku, you guys are way too naïve. Who ever said that this is the end of my plan?」

「AH?」

「But——」

I interrupted the two with my next ambitious product. The king of home-cooking restaurant, cuisine well known around the world—— Hamburger meat desu!

「Th-This is!」

Gobuchi seems highly motivated again upon seeing the new dish.

「Huhuhu, Gobuchi, the recipe to this cuisine is not challenging at all. However, it is extremely difficult if you want everyone to make the same flavor of it.」

「And what do you mean by that?」

「For now figure out some way to train your men in making it with the same flavor!

From there, let them develop hambergur meat unique to their own shops.」

「I see! You wish tto have my disciples own their own shops and allow them to compete among each other, right?」

I gave him a smile hearing Gobuchi’s response.

「It would seem that you have noticed Gobuchi. The more people capable of making the cuisine, the more wide-spread the relevant foodchain would spread across the world.」

「I understand! Allow me, Gobuchi to do it——！！」

Very well, I noded in response. With Gobuchi’s correct interpretation, he may have also sparked ambition in creating his own shop. However, Myourmiles who overheard our conversation….

「Does this mean, I have to invest more money….」

His face turned blue as he realizes he’s going to increase his budget again But, you don’t need to worry.

「Kukuku, Myourmiles-kun, please be reassured! Those fully-developed ramen has already been on sale! Not only within my nation, it has been gaining popularity across the travelling hotels along the roads. I think it’s also about time to promote it in Blumund kingdom.」

「S-So!?」

「That’s right, it means is about payback time.」

「Ohohohoh, Sasuga, Sasuga Rimuru-sama!」

「Indeed, indeed!」

「Kufufufu, so it will all be fine under Rimuru-sama’s care? I understand, please allow me, Myourmiles to handle the preparation for the next round of opening of the Hambergur meat shops.」

I was able to sweep away his concerns with one smooth talk. In this way, I am able to gain the next deal with Myourmiles as I return the initial fundings. After which, we poured in Myourmiles’ funds like flowing water and developed

64 new products one by one.

We’ve also encountered crisis mid-way——our information was leaked to Veldora and we were forced to teach him how to make Takoyaki. But that’s another interesting story to tell. Even if there are losses, they are expenditure on Myourmiles’ tab. And I still continued pushing forward plans without any fear of failure…

At long last, we were able to develop a diverse menu of cuissines. With different hotels adding to the competitions, the sales kept on growing higher and higher. The initial losses sustained by Myourmiles were also compensated with these numbers.

「Kufufufu, I can’t seem to stop. The money we can make just never seem to go away!」

「Am I right, Myourmiles? Everything is according to plan!」

「Please allow me to remain in your care in the future as well, Rimuru-sama!」

「Most certainly. But in return…. I hope you would understand right?」

「Of course, of course. I won’t slip a word out, whatever you wish just come and ask me.」

「Hmm, aren’t you the obedient type? I’ll take good care of you in the future.」

「Yes! Yes! Do come to me if you ever need to discuss any more deal!」

I take the little bag handed over from Myourmiles into my pockets and nodded. There’s no need to confirm the content, it’s definitely the usual stuff.

「Ha! Ha! Ha!」

「Ku! Ku! Ku!」

I laugh along with Myourmiles And Gobuchi on the other side is happily examining the cooking machines he received.

It’s a reward I told Myourmiles to prepare for him.

Not only did I eat delicious food, but it also got my wallet full. Myourmiles was able to take over this new rising trades and profit through the prospering business. Even Gobuchi seems over-joyed surrounded by all the precious food ingredients and cooking machines collected around the world. As planned, everyone got joy out of it.

◇◇◇ All the new cuisines born from the incident were all supplied to the hotels along the roads to Alumount and Ingracia kingdoms. Apart from that, the road to Dwargon also had similar development. At some point of time and onward, travelers started showing up in the hotels just to taste the food. Then on these roads, chefs and food-enthusists from different nations gather due to their reputation, causing the streets to be occupied fully by different cuisine vendors.

——in the future, these roads were named “Roads of delicacy”.

Such is the origin of the naming, but I, at the time, would have no idea about that.

Back to catalogue

Rimuru’s Notebook

A certain location holds a pamphlet of book ——「Rimuru’s Notebook」, this was considered a valuable document with records of events regarding that period of time. But among experts, whether the artifact is authentic or forged has been a famous controversy even to today. But there is good reason for it.

(D: The following are all content in the notebook) ——Everyone was all happy about the fact that I have awoken from evolving to a demon lord. So they decided to turn this day into a holiday in Tempest State, I’d best record everyone’s status before I forget——

This document——records of「Tempest Resurrection Festival」documented in

「Rimuru’s Notebook」begins as such. As a dominating demon lord, it has a rather casual writing style, almost like a handnote to record whatever came up to his mind.

The continuation of it will also be things added to the narrative whenever he feels like so, expressing feelings no different than us.

What would you feel after reading this? Perhaps you would also feel a sense of care towards the demon lord. And that’s exactly the type of reaction I hope to get So there’s no need to continue hanging on, I would now introduce you its content. *

It’s not “Dong~Dong~Dong”, but Slash, Pierce, Roll… Those are the sounds of Shion cooking What oblique travesty lies beyond the kitchen door….

Cuisine, the word echoes in the void like atmosphere. I look towards Benimaru. His face has turned blue. His menancing aura is nowhere to be found. It’s as if he has given up something like a criminal that is about to be executed.

I’m just gonna let Benimaru sit here while I (attempt) leave in silence. But——

「Ri-Rimuru-sama. This sure is ve-very dangerous——Eh, AHH! He ran away!!」

Benimaru ran after me with tears in his eyes. Ze, it would seem I’ve been noticed. That being said, it’s equally discerning to just sit there and wait for Shion to finish cooking.

「Do you want to come along?」

「Please allow me to accompany you!」

I don’t even have to listen to what comes next. I’d rather go check on the smiles of the ones being resurrected with Benimaru just so as to forget about our imminent death sentence. As I walk out of the kitchen, I receive appreciation from my subordinates who noticed me. Everyone passes on the good news with smiles on their face. And so, one by one we exchanged greets over time.

And after that we visited Kurobee’s workshop. We saw Hakuro there as well

Tonight everyone will dine together——That is, a feast. It would seem he has come to deliver this message. Since Kurobee has been spending most of his time alone in the workshop, I decided to invite him and later introduce him to the new-comers. But that seems to be unnecessary. There are people who do care for Kurobee besides us. I feel a sense of joy for that even though it is the reasonable thing to have been. So I decide to take the opportunity to chat with Kurobee a bit more.

「All thanks to Rimuru-sama’s evolution, I also gained some abilities. With these, I am planning to readjust everyone’s weapon. Since Rimuru-sama has now proclaimed to be a demon lord, there will probably be more armed conflicts in the future.」

Kurobee smiles and says. Truly a reliable man.

It would seem Kurobee has gained Unique Skill “Godly Craftsman” on the basis of “Researcher”. That symbolizes Kurobee’s resolve, he will put his heart and soul into producing armaments.

「I’ve come to have him check on my sword. On top of that, in order to reflect upon the miscalculations with regards to the Falmas invasion, I have decided to retrain everyone. And so in order to be better equipped to respond to all sorts of situation, I asked him to make more varieties of weapons」

Hakuro points to all sorts of bizarre weapons on the wall as he says so.

There are sickles that would be wielded by grim reaper13 and two-handed great- sword; There are also more common weapons such as sword breaker14, axe and spears. As for weapons requiring more techniques to wield, there are pole, bladed knuckles and nunchakus. There is even weapon as hard to wield as kusarigama15

It would seem he really has decided to pass on all his weapon techniques in order

13 Or Shinigami, God of Death in Japanese. 14 锏——(Jian) Chinese sword-like mace 15 Wield-Sickle, a traditional Japanese weapon 69 to cope with all situations. Speaking of which——

「I want to craft a kitchen knife for Shion, could you help to make it?」

「Of course, Shion just wouldn’t let go of her odachi so it’s just about the right timing. While she holds onto a kitchen knife, I would be able to improve on her odachi.」

「I’m relying on you. Also, you should also add on her blade——」

I told my ideas to Kurobee, he also expresses interest in the modification.

As I was explaining, Hakuro passed a cup of wine and somehow a drinking session started without me noticing. And because of that, I began to loosen up and give out all kinds of proposals. Most of them probably would turn out to be the results of fantasy and difficult to be of any practical use. Even though I won’t get drunk, it still warrants myself to reflect that I would lose myself in good atmosphere. And Benimaru was also being himself and handed his Tachi out, asking for an upgrade. But it’s another problem of whether Kurobee is gonna able to remember anything after getting sober, but that would be his problem.

We proceeded to the town square after leaving the workshop There, pthe eople are working non-stop for the feast preparation. Among them, we encountered a party that’s gearing up to leave the town.

「Ah, Rimuru-sama! Your evolution, congratulations! I also feel like getting a bit stronger after that!」

「Oh Gobuta. That would be pretty good. Speaking of which, there’s a feast tonight so where are you heading to now?」

「Ahhh, I’ve been asked by Shuna-sama to visit the sea….」

「Aha?! The Sea!?」

Gobuta is heading to the seaside to collect fish for the feast. The last we visited the sea, the fish we brought back was made into Sashimi. It would seem and so she asked Gobuta to help bring the top-tier goods and they’ve decided to bring it back to the table.

「That’s not it, rather say I’m being requested to go——」

「A second, Gobuta-san. If you continue this it probably won’t end well.」

「Y-Yes. That’s it, we’ll be back soon!」

Gobuta stopped just before announcing whatever he was going to say after his second-in-command reminded him. Mah, it Is understood without saying. Shuna’s request, rather to be called a request, it’s more of a forceful command. Someone like Gobuta wouldn’t be able to resist that.

「Oh, I’ll be looking forward to that. Catch something big to bring back!」

「Understood. Leave the rest to us!」

With that being said, Gobuta is pretty fond of fishing regardless. I bear some regrets in not being able to prepare the feast with everyone, if I imagine it to be the preparation of food sources for the main course, it would be an important task to hand to Gobuta. He probably feels pretty happy in his heart despite the complaints.

As Gobuta prepared to leave, there came another person holding a bag dripping blood. Due to the distinct swell of the bag, its dandiling weight and smell make the us to feel dizzy. I turned to see who it was, and it turned out to be Gobuzo.

「So it’s Gobuzo. It’s great that you’re looking well but… What is that?」

I asked subconsciously sensing an ominous aura emitting from the bag.

「Are? Isn’t this Gobuzo? What is this all about?」

Before Gobuzo could answer, Gobuta and I both started to notice following my

71 question…. Gobuzo’s answer was the testimony to my prediction, a truly horrifying foreshadowing.

「 Ah, Rimuru-sama! And Gobuta-san? I was told to bring Shion-sama her cooking ingredients.」

Hold on a second. Just, hold on for a while.

「Go-Gobuzo-kun? Whatever is inside that bloody bag, could——it——be the ingredients?」

「Y-yeah Gobuzo. This-this is way too early to deliver right? Show us what’s inside the bag for a moment.」 Benimaru’s face is also gradually turning blue again, and demanded Gobuzo to open the bag.

What rolled from it was——a head of a Ushiroku16. A mighty one at that with a pair of strong horns. But!! The problem here isn’t whether it’s a mighty beast or not.

「Hold on a sec! A Ushiroku’s head is completely inedible, right?!」

I scream that out without knowing. And Mr Ushiroku’s head, could you please stop looking at me with disappointment. It must have been severed in an instance and transported here directly, so now its oepn eyes stare deep into mine. That’s a bit horrifying when you think about it. That’s a feeling I wouldn’t imagine feeling on day of a feast.

This is probably what consuming the raw means, but even then, neh…

「Is it really like that? Before, Shuna-sama said the same thing to Shion-sama, but

16 A cow-deer hybrid creature (refer to volume 2), a creature in slime world 72 it only seemed to ignited her more…」

As Gobuzo said. I also recall having been warned by Shuna about this being inedible.

But because of that, Shion has been pretty competitive about it.

「Ingredient that even Shuna-sama can’t handle——I shall make it work then!」 The sudden invoked vain led her to order Gobuzo to bring the ingredient here. 「This is bad…. Shion, is probably going on a rampage right now.」

「No way.. So it was me that was going to eat this…」 Benimaru looks dead inside. And it would seem Gobuta has also sense the danger of the situation seeing Benimaru like that.

「We-well, we have our own mission so…!」 And Gobuta fled as he said so. That was a matter of second so Benimaru wasn’t even able to stop them.

「I see Gobuta’s leadership skill has also improved.」

「I agree. That bastard really only has exceptional skill in detecting danger…」 Benimaru agreed in pain.

But in turns, this means there’s no chance of Gobuta getting involved in this whole mess. So we have to deal with the ushiroku ourselves. Benimaru peeked at me and pat on Gobuzo’s shoulder with determination And——

「 Rimuru-sama is also very much looking forward to Shion’s cooking. But Rimuru-sama is feeling like some vegetable soup today. So hear me and tell Shion that.」

What the..?? Bunch of nonsense… 「Oi Benimaru you bastard! This has nothing to do with me, right!?」 73

「Please don’t say so without giving me a hand!」

「Don’t get me involved! And aren’t you the one trying to trick me before!!」

「Just as you said, I’ve been reflecting on that. However, this may be too much, no!?」

Benimaru of course is referring to the head of Ushiroku.

「Mah… That is definitely not happening.」

「Right?」

We look at each other and nod.

「Gobuzo, allow me return that.」

「AH!? If so, Shion-sama would be mad at me. I’ve been selected as a member of

Shion-sama’s new platoon, so I don’t want to disobey her order….」

Gobuzo wouldn’t accept it even if it’s an order from Benimaru. It’s true that Gobuzo can refuse the order from Benimaru who he doesn’t directly server. But even so, he’s got balls an order from my direct subordinate. Gobuzo may not look the part but he is surprisingly bold.

It is a good thing but not under this type of circumstance. It can’t be help, so I guess I’ll have to intervene.

「Ah, how do I put this. Gobuzo-kun, please return this. As Benimaru said, I’m feeling vegetable soup now. So just deliver the message to Shion. On top of that, I’ll gift you this as a token of my appreciation.」 I began to negotiate with Gobuzo out of pity for Banimaru. And so I place the kusarigama I took out of Kurobee’s workshop out of interest in his hand for him to hold onto.

「This is a weapon named kusarigama, Gobuzo. It’s a difficult weapon to wield, but it should come in handy for Gobuzo-kun who’s gained extraskill 「Total 74

Memorization」and 「Self-regenration」.」 I hand it to him as I say so, Gobuzo is extremely moved.

「Understood! Gobuzo will obey if it is a request from Rimuru-sama」!

「Hmm-hmm. It’s good that you understand. When you are skilled with it, I’ll request better kusarigama from Kurobee. Good luck with your practice!」

「Yes sir! 」

Gubuzo seems delighted and proceeded to return the ushigaro head. Crisis resolved. Although now Benimaru owns me a favor, I wouldn’t even want to think about the fact I have to return and taste Shion’s cooking.

——"Sympathy won’t be of aid”—— For real, it is truly unpredictable how fashion would become one day. But it is for that reason life is more interesting.

Speaking of which, Gobuzo was able to successfully convince Shion after we parted. Benimaru’s line of “Rimuru-sama feels like vegetable soup” was the most decisive point. I had to agree tot that given it’s the original ending.”

That’s fine, and here’s the story of Gobuzo.

「I’m surprised you have helped me collecting information on Rimuru-sama, nicely done Gobuzo!」

Shion said happily while proposing Gobuzo with a suggestion. That is, the acquriance of “Pain Resistance” It’s a necessary skill if Gobuzo would like to learn to use kasurigama. It is probably unavoidable for Gobuzo to add a few scars on himself since he’s not really an agile individual.

And what Shion taught him was an impossible means without extraskill “Total Memorization” and “Self-regenration”. To gain resistance to the feeling of pain by hurting oneself deliberately——that’s the best way I could put it.

「I… getting hit by Shion… That would probably feel nice!」

「That’s the spirit. Gobuzo, do work hard to improve.」

While I’m not sure whether such exchange actually took place, from the day onward, Gobuzo has been sticking a knife on his forehead. What in the world is that idiot doing!? So I thought, and it really is pretty stupid- looking. But even though it looks stupid, Gobuzo did in fact gain “Pain Resistance”. And it is also a fact that this led to many others to challenge the same thing

That’s way too dangerous. So I decided to add this method to my banned-word list for him. ——After which, those who visited wanting to learn how Gobuzo gained pain nullification will never be able to find out. There are things better left undiscovered in this world.

After Gobuzo left, I was introduced to the three Beastketeers Benimaru summoned them here to greet me. I seem to have received more enthusiastic greets than before.

「Well, if Rimuru-sama can gather powerful Majin such as Benimaru-sama and

Shion-san, there’s no need to doubt the power of Rimuru-sama.」

Anubis said so while Benimaru shows signs of fear as he os still thinking about Shion’s cookig. Would her view change after seeing him in that state…? Although I’m a bit intrigued but alas. Even I fear about Shion’s cooking so I can’t just mock Benimaru alone.

I went to check on the beastmen’s temporary residence accompanied by Benimaru and Beastketeers after that. Those are the encouraged people setting up tents and distributing resources. And I came to memorize the Beastmen’s faces for better relationship in the future living under the same roof.

The beastmen are building their tents at the designated refuge area underground All labor forces are working together under Geld’s command. Due to the night feast, they’ve decided to finish laying out the bedsheets by the day.

However, there seems to be a few persons with new wounds all over…

「These guys won’t listen to me, so I had to communicate with them with my fists.」

In other words, they got beat up due to disobeying order, according to Geld.

Elephant Beastman and bear Beastman, such men who are bigger in size work as Geld’s hands and feet. Thanks to that, the operation seems to be proceeding faster than expected.

「It would definitely be faster if we do the job entirely on our own, but they (the beastmen) wouldn’t remember how to do it without us instructing. So I had to teach them a lesson.」 Geld said so as if it’s natural.

「Zoir and Talos who are quite strong within the ranks of Beast king’s army can barely put up a match against Geld-san over there.」

「Indeed. But this would make things simpler. Since we always follow the strong within our instincts.」

According to Anubis as Sophia, the Beastman society is a total hierarchy And for that reason, they would follow the instructions of the strong when in situation such as this. The unease brought by the disappearance of Karion led most beastmen into a state of frenzic rage. However, they will regain their rationality upon being defeated by a more powerful existence. As such, this hierarchy allowed things to be smoother once they decided to obey.

This plus Geld’s strong leadership. He was able to see through the beastmen’s characters and turn them into his troop. In order to more efficiently perform, he turned his own subordinates to overseer of their operations. As expected of Geld. Such technique of troop maneuver wouldn’t be accessible if not for to Geld’s everyday involvement in construction work.

「Nicely done, Geld. By this rate, you should be able to finish by the evening.」

「Indeed! We would definitely catch up.」

What a reliable man. And speaking of being reliable, my attention turned to some else. The one who’s been distributing healing potion among the injured beastmen The one giving them order is Gabiru.

This Gabiru, has been surprisingly well-rounded in doing this type of things. Perhaps it is also a talent to be able to befriend any race.

「Gabiru, do you have any concern? Is there enough medicine?」

「I-Isn’t this Rimuru-sama! No problem at all. Our production lately has also increased so there’s still plenty in stock.」”

「Is that so? Good work then! I’m relying on you in he future as well!」”

「YES SIR——! I’LL SERVE YOU WITH MY LIFE!!」

Gabiru answered so almost planning to kneel before me. It would seem he’s lost his smugness of late, perhaps it’s about time to give him a raise

「Next time, I’ll grant you a vacation. And so you should go visit your father and prepare a report on that. 」

「B-but…. I’ve been severed tie and chased out of home…」

「No need to worry, just visit with Souka in the name of me as a messenger.」

「Oh, OHOH…!! I like this, thank you so much. Please do entrust this duty to me!!」

Gabiru accepted happily and went back to work. The three beastekeers stayed while having high hope for the night feast. Our party then parted.

After the inspection, I returned to my room.

On the way, I started chatting with Benimaru.

「I think it’s about to raise Gabiru to a higher office.」

「Ah, I think that’s a good idea as well. He seems competent power-wise, though that guy is still the same in terms of personality, there’s still a lot of hope in his future.」

And so it’s decided.. If necessary, I should also mitigate about the severed tie between the Gabiru household.

「Hmm, as our officer, It would be bad for our image having a severed tie with a Mamono clan chief. We better talk to Gabil and resolve the severed tie between the two.」

「So It is for that reason. But it sure it’s concerning. If it is misunderstood that our country has bad blood with a internal officer, the Lizardman clan would probably be in an awkward spot.」

Benimaru seemed to have caught up to me. It does help a lot that we are able to engage in the proper topic so fast. Gabiru probably also wish to make peace with his father somehow in heart. Besides, it really won’t be productive to continue be in this severed relationship. As for the lizardman clan chief Gabil, if his kid was able to become an officer under a demon lord, it should be sufficient reason to re-connect with Gabiru.

The problem here is being both Gabiru and Gabil are both stubborn. If we don’t arrange Souka to mitigate prior to the event, they may end up in a fight. It’s better to arrange things first and execute with sufficient preparations. So I should ask Souei to help. Since he have already met Gabil, it would be alright to let him negotiate.

I left as I thought so with Benimaru.

(Hehehehe, WHAHAHA! Only one more passage left) *

I’ll attempt to select one of the entry,

Although the narrative would continue, but we have limited time so far. Regrettably, the introduction shall end here. For those interested in what I have introduced, please consider purchasing a copy of 「Rimuru’s Notebook」.

If you’ve read it, you should have sufficient reasons to understand how much the great demon lord Rimuru cherishes his subordinates. To the Demon lord’s subordinates, to his people, Demon Lord Rimuru is no symbol of horror, but an existence that parallel parenthood. That has not changed from then to now. ·

(D: Following are “alternative narratives” in Rimuru’s head)

Knowing that the underling Shion was not good at cooking both still decided to eat with his companion Benimaru to be in his aid Supplied Kurobee, who’s been troubled by what new weapons to produce a variety of ideas. Enjoyed fishing alongside Gobuta and his subordinates Discovered and inspired the future martial artist——“Kasurigama Gobuzo” Helping the Beastmen in need without asking anything in return. And was able to sign a permeant non-aggression pack with their nation Listening to the subordinates’ complaints while helping to solve their issues But it wasn’t easy at all to help them all resolve their issues.

That demon lord, the more you try to learn about its personality, the more understanding you feel towards those close to it. Especially the part of tasting Shion’s cooking, that’s not a task for everyone. Aya, my apologies, I may have gotten a little bit too emotional

As I was saying…… Even though this feeling of friendliness can be a strategic propaganda by demon lord Rimuru….. You’ll be the judge of that. Hopefully you will be able to make the proper judgement after reading this. Could it be trying deceive humanity, or perhaps, trying to fit in human society from the bottom of its heart? You will more or less get a peek into the Demon Lord’s mind after reading this book.

As such, I hope everyone would be able to see what demon lord Rimuru is truly contemplating And wish that one day, the discussion of such a topic will end with the book. With the hopes of freeing people from suspicion, I hereby promote this book.

《Written by one who wants to know more about the great demon lord Rimuru—》

Done and done. Given I have promoted in a huge scale for the product in this way, a ceiling- breaking sale is definitely expected

Becoming a best-sell work, I’m counting down days before I’m called a writer- sensei. I believe the journalists gathered here would also be able to understand my feeling. Or so I thought…

As I finished introducing the content of the book, the journalists at the conference all started expressing unbelieving doubt.

「Ayyy, we are truly sorry. But your words are a bit different from the content in the book….」

What? Different… from the content…? I laid my eyes on my notes as I heard the reporters’ doubts, there it does record my real actions. Yeah, my actual actions.

「Oi, why is it real!?」

I remember I changed the narrative for the better, but how come my actual records of actions are documented? It’s something I can’t solve even with shouting out loud

《Due to the inaccuracies in the narratives, I’ve conducted revisions to the content》

WOW, so you are the criminal!! What-What in the world have you done!?

「Ano, real? So, the ones being written here is supposed to be the correct records?」

「Ah, no, about that….」

This is bad VERY BAD I had the illusion of having cold sweat even with a non-sweat secreting body

「And, we had no idea this book even existed, so where do we get to read it?」 Ah, did they just ask that?

That is true though, since the existence of my study is not known to any Because, I was only going to promote it from now on At the moment my original draft has been stored in my “Stomach” and there’s few who can actually access it In other words, only I have access to it

As I was thinking about excuses, the other reporters also start to join the commotion It would seem trying to play dumb would backfire with this one. I was going to earn some quick cash while enhancing my personal image, so it would seem I have to give up for the time being. It can’t be helped, it’s time for my strategic exit.

Can’t believe that my precious plan to improve my public image just got hindered in such unexpected place. Rpeorting, communicating and conferencing and such are all my miscalculations

「Fu, FUHAHAHA! It would seem I have been exposed. See you all another time then my fellow friends!」

I said so while trying to retrieve all the reading demo handed out just now And after which used “Teleportation” to escape in an instance And so the “Plan to sell Rimuru’s notebooks” was a failure in the end.

……...

……

…

After that, I forgot to retrieve one of test notebook.

And that notebook was the copy that became famous for the time to come—— The existence known as “Rimuru’s notebook”, and I wouldn’t have any reason to

82 know about it at the time.

Back to catalogue

Defeat of the Holy Knights (Spoiler for Light Novel Volume 7)

Previous story synopsis:

Days after Hinata’s confrontation with Rimuru at Ingracia, the news of the demise of Falmas army spread to the Holy Kingdom of Ruberios. Hinata, the Commander of the Holy Knight Order, suspects Rimuru to be alive and summoned her fellow knights as well the “Ten Saints”, strongest humans of this generation to an emergency summit to inform them all of the situation.

After the meeting, Hinata was called upon by her former mentors, the celestial sages (their leader Guren absent). The sages delivered her a communication crystal which recorded a message from Rimuru, challenging Hinata to a duel at Tempest State. With the sages’ blessing, Hinata decided to set out alone to confront and hopefully make peace with Rimuru.

As she went on the journey alone, she was caught up soon by her collegues, four of the “Ten Saints” and members of the Holy Knight Orders: Fritz, Aruno, Bacchus and Litierse. The Saints worried for Hinata’s safety and decided to accompany her on her journey. The party proceeded on several weeks’ travelling to their destination, while encountering many new things realized through Rimuru’s leadership in the Jura Forest.

Unbeknownst to Hinata and her companions, the Sages have secretly betrayed Hinata and delivered a false message, distorted from Rimuru’s peace-seeking request in order to lure her away the nation. During her leave, they instigated the Vice-commander Reynald to set out with the remaining knights to invade Tempest State in aid of Hinata.

As Hinata and her companions learn more of the changes brought by Rimuru, they became more confident in making peace rather than violent confrontation. However, this hope was soon shattered as Hinata discovered the arrival of Reynald and the order, confronted by Rimuru’s army.

This is the story of the knights’ story when Hinata confronts Rimuru on the battlefield.

(Left to Right) 十大聖人 – Ten Saints

Three Martial Art Saints

“The Rock” Gregory “Great Sea” Guranda “Canopy of Heaven” Sali

Holy Knight Order

“Commander of the Holy Knight” Sakaguchi Hinata “Saint of Fire” Gerald “Saint of Water” Litierse “Saint of Air” Aruno Bowman “Saint of Earth” Bacchus “Saint of Wind” Fritz

“Prince of Light” Reynald Jasta

Upon arriving the capital city Rimuru of Tempest Federation, there has been a drastic change in the situation.

There’s a sudden surge of aura indicating a huge battle. One of the parties gives off a rather familiar aura. It belongs to the Holy Knight Order vice-commander Reynald 17 , who are supposed to defened the nation (Ruberios) while they were out. This is quite shocking to the holy knights who have just recently gained hope in resolving the conflict with Rimuru peacefully after weeks of travelling.

But regardless of the situation, they need to go confirm the situation first.

「Let’s go!」

Hinata bursts out shouting, followed by the rest of the holy knights to the battlefield at full speed.

There ,they witnessed a one-sided crashing on the so called battlefield. There were five higher Majins with overwhelming power next to her.

The one that stands out with unparallel power, it’s the Majin that resembles a young girl with moon white hair. That majin is the target of this mission. The leader of the Tempest Federation, newly appointed Demon Lord——Rimuru, that’s it alright.

The proof being that Hinata, who the knights trust, has since fixed her sights on the Majin without moving. It’s definitely warranting that it would be an opponent to be on full alert against, even ignoring all the fierce combats occurring on their back.

Regarding that incident, the holy knights got a good strong taste of reality. *

Rimuru was the first one to speak.

「You sure are bald, Hinata. Even though it’s without saying, this is still my territory. We could confirm your hostility by this unannounced military activity alone. So I won’t be naïve enough to sit around and for you to strike first. 」

17 Renado Jiesuta 86

That’s——a misunderstanding! Aruno, one of the holy knights, thought. But there’s no way he can prove it here. Although Hinata has also already realized that, she still wanted to resolve the misunderstanding through negotiation. But… it wasn’t going well as expected.

Reynald and the rest are still fighting behind them, if this is how it would go on,, combat is the only way out. Then, what could we do?

Aruno tried his hardest thinking about a solution while listening to Hinata’s negotiation. We shouldn’t just be alerted by Demon lord Rimuru, Aruno thought to himself. The other four Majins. Every one of them gives off a fierce aura unique to the strong.

Although Hinata mentioned that those are threats of A+ level, her phrasings were likely wrong. Since the only things more dangerous than that are the demon lords and true dragons. To be specific, even catastrophe-level monster——Charybdis, which can rival, even exceed the strength of demon lords, is only categrized under A+. It is simply a rank made for a lack of more dangerous existences.

Besides, his comrade Litierse is able to summon A+ level higher spirit Water Maiden 18 . Even so, if you ask her whether she could put up a fight against Charybdis, the answer would be impossible. Even if the ranking is the same, there is still presence of absolute power gap.

And then, the Majins in front of them…. They aren’t joking around with their strength written on their faces. Even though they don’t stand tall as something like demon lords or Charybdis, these are still difficult opponents

Two of the Three Beastketeers, who were trusted aides of ex Dmon Lord Beast King Karion. Those two are the strongest indivdiuals within the ranks of the famous Beast King Battalion. Their strengths are no small feet. And the other two Majins who have been identifies as Kjins by Hinata. Those are powerful Manomo worshiped by primitive tribes. Between tham, especially the red hair seems most unusual. It gives off a special aura among the four. Even with Aruno’s eyes he can’t see through its strength.

18 ウソデイノネ 87

(——This is gonna be trouble. How are we supposed to beat Majins with such power? No way we can do it…) The number matches up as well. There’s no better way to be sure of their strength than confront them directly. If they are lucky enough, the may even win. These are reolves hold by every one of the holy knights, so there’s no need to make up their mind at this point. But this time, victory is not a necessity.

「There’s no need for further confrontations other than against Demon Lord

Rimuru.」 Hinata said so. Right now the situation is rather hard to resolve, but if it’s Hinata…… She definitely would be able to convince demon lord Rimuru——Aruno decides to place his absolute faith in Hinata.

Then, what would be his duty? That would be to buy time. Aruno is in a party of four. Same number as the Majins they are against. They would more or less be able to buy some time if they take on one each.

Aruno decides to take action and interjected Rimuru and Hinata’s conversation.

「What are you talking about! Do you even know what would happen if Hinata- sama is to take back her stance right now? Why woundn’t we take precaution when you are the one who called Hinata here?」

Whatever excuse would suffice now. Aruno shouted while thinking that to himself one-sidedly. As expected, one of Rimuru’s subordinate made a move. It happens to be the red-hair that Aruno thought is the most dangerous.

(What a timing. Please be my oppononent now!) It is a Majin worthy of Aruno, who’s only next to Hinata in terms of strength within the order.

Come on, if it comes after anyone else, they probably won’t even be able to buy any time Aruno pulled out his sword and prepare to swing towards the red-hair.

「No aura of killing, is that so? Good call. Just now if you intend to kill me, you would be lying on the ground by now. 」

Of course. To Aruno he has no intent to kill the red-hair in the first place. He only wanted to distract the Majin away from Hinata. But what he said has upsetted Aruno.

Sure, the red-hair is strong. Aruno approves that, but he is upset that he dares to treat him as some lower existence and made such arrogant speech. But I wouldn’t know what would happen without a fight.

「I wouldn’t want to get in the way of Hinata-sama’s negotiation. So I decided to make some threat and got the reaction. But it would be rather boring if I’m just misunderstood like this.」

He observes the red-hair as he argues back. But the red-hair really isn’t taking Aruno seriously.

「You are the one who’s misunderstanding.」

He seems to have little interest for Aruno while saying so.

Now Aruno is getting pisse by his attitude. If our strength is similar, victor would be depended on luck——Aruno thought to himself. He won’t go down without a fight against arrogant opponent such as this, even if they are strong.

「Huhu, then let’s have a little chat somewhere further away.」

「Very well.」

Since we are going to spar one on one, the outcome would be the same even if our intents differ. Aruno thought so and decided to get a little more serious with the red-hair. *

Aruno has left.

Seeing so, the next ones to act were the two Beastketeer.

「Aren’t you guys feeling bored as well? If you don’t want to get into Rimuru- sama’s way, we can go for a little spar for now. 」

「Ah, ah. The power of the “Ten Saints”, that’s what I happen to want to get a taste of」.

They propose towards Fritz and the others, showing their beastly teeth with a provoking smirk.

(Good grief, I understand what Aruno is planning now. He’s trying to distract the Majins to battle in order to let Hinata to focus on dealing with demon lord Rimuru——)

“Earth Saint” Bacchus has correctly intepretted Aruno’s thought. So was his companion Fritz, who arrived at the same conclusion.

「Well then, allow me to oblige.」 Bacchus responded that. 「Well it can’t be helped, I’ll join you then.」 Fritz also walked forward as well saying so.

(As expected of Fritz. Even if he likes to make nonsense talk most of the time, he’s definitely reliable under these circumstances.) Bacchus thought to himself. But he became speechless as soon as hearing what Fritz spoke out the very next instance.

「Neh neh, nee-chan, aren’t you a lovely lady? Bullseye for me! Ah, my name is

Fritz, what about you? You have one, right? won’t you tell me now?」

He can’t believe Fritz said that to the Beatketeers as if he’s flirting with some girls on the street.

(I-idioit! How could he do something… Actually, hold on a moment?)

Bacchus who’s been rather confused by his collegue’s frivoulous attitude suddenly realizes something. Although he has believed that the opponents are the who he thinks, they’ve not announced their names yet.

(To get the identities of the opponents, I see now. You are a clever man too, Fritz.) But that was probably just misinterpretation on Bacchus’ side.

Bacchus decides to go along after recognizing Fritz’s “wit”.

「Ladies, I apologize that my collegue’s intrusion. We are kind of running late but my name is Bacchus. As you may figure, I am one of the “Ten Saints”, and the captain of the Holy Knight order. I would be looking forward to our duel, but before which could you share your names with us?」

Bacchus ask for the opponents name following Firtz’s words subtly. The one who responded to his words was the beauty with devilish straight white hair and cat-like eyes.

「Fufu, interesting. My name is Sophia. “White Tiger Fang” Sophia! As you may have figured out, I am one of the three Beasteekeer. Let me have some fun with you now, “Ten Saint” Bacchus!」

Sophia announces herself while moving in front her Bacchus with her extravagant limbs. The Tiger has chosen her opponent. Bacchus realizes that too and holds tight onto his holy battle pole infused with magical power.

「It would be great if I could meet your expetction.」

「He, he, no need to be modest now. I’ll even spare your life if you could satisfy me. So how about show me all your strength? 」

「Cease your howling. I’ll have you taste the our strength of the guardian of humanity.」

Bacchus shouted. At the same time——

(Of course it’s just as Hinata-sama has expected. It would seem demon lord Rimuru’s party has no intent in confronting us.) As such he understands it.

While he was reassured with a strange sensation, his resolve as a holy knight also bursts out of his heart. Since the objective is to buy time, there’s no need to fight to the death. However, it is precisely for that reason. This moment, now, he should fight with all his strength. Bacchus thought.

「Subject of the Western Saints Church, the Holy Knight Order——“Saint of

Earth” Bacchus, here to receive you!!」

「Come at me!!」

。 Bacchus begins combat against Sophia the Beastketeer—— *

Fritz is trying to confront the fear that has arised in his heart. (This is bad. Bad, bad, horribly bad. It’s Really bad. This is really overwhelngly horribly bad!!)

He had to move out camp since Bacchus took action, but should he leave Hinata or not? So thought Fritz. His feeling upon seeing demon lord Rimuru——Fear. Impossible, he realizes he can be casually be categorized among the strong. Aruno must have faith strong as steel in believing Hinata’s victory. But of course, Fritz also has faith in her. But even so, there’s no way things can be easily resolved if Hinata has to fight that demon lord. Fritz’s instinct told him.

Without much proof. But Fritz’s sixth sense often comes to use in situation like this. He can understand Aruno’s thoughts. But now since Bacchus has got involved, it’s then decided what Fritz has to do. To fight one the beasteeker and buy time.

Aruno has confronted the red-hair whose threat is only next to demon lord

Rimuru. Then…… The rest of the Majins should be on equal terms against Fritz and the others who are all members of the “Ten Saints”.

Although the Gray-hair Majin who has little presence among the rest has caught Fritz’s attention for a while, he has the least amount of Magicule among them. So it’ll be fine. If it’s Litierse who can summon spirits, she would have an advantage fighting by summoning Water Maiden. At least she won’t lose.

And with Fritz and Bacchus, it would at least be a draw against the beasteekeers. The problem is with whether Aruno——

(No, it’s no use to think this hard right now. Aruno is stronger than me so It won’t of help even if I worry. Instead I should think of a way to deal with the situation……)

Fritz is thinking really hard. He has faith in his companions, so he would instead prioritize how to achieve victory himself right now. At that moment, Fritz had an epiphany. This is no place to hesitate. Fritz made up his mind and spoke to one of the beasteekeers with a sarcastic tone.

「Neh neh, nee-chan, aren’t you a lovely lady? Bullseye for me! Ah, my name is

Fritz, what about you? You have one, right? won’t you tell me now?」

The offense that Fritz came up with——That is to confuse the opponents. Then he would be able to distract them and make his first strike count. Even if he is called despicable, as long as he wins it counts. Fritz has his own inner working besides considering his strength and is cautiously attempting to turn the tide for himself.

But he wasn’t attempting to identify the opponents like what Bacchus thought. It may seem frivolous, but Fritz has no time to consider that. Because of that, Bacchus, who is unaware of it, decided to lead the conversation as if he’s taking care after Fritz.

(Sorry for the trouble, old man. But does this make me more like an idiot in this way?)

Fritz’s chances of victory increase despite it not being his intent.

Bacchus then began to fight fairly as a holy knight of the church. The opponent must be expecting the same from Fritz because of that.

「The name is Anubis. “Golden Snake Horn”19 Anubis. Sadly you’re not my type.」

「Ayyy, that’s a real shame. Then, what happens now? Should we begin?」

Fritz looks at Anubis as he says so. A seductive beauty with golden and black hair floating around her head. Although her eyes are beautiful like jewls, deep down that snake’s pupils seem to hide a bottomless abyss.

Fritz observed and was disappointed that Anubis has not let down her guard one bits. The air surrounding her is cruel and cold, and she didn’t make a single move upon hearing Fritz’s words.

(But it’s only natural, this is after all monster who commands the Beast King’s army, no way that it will become careless just like this……)

But there’s no problem even if she disrupted one of his strategy.

The scheme to distract opponent is not singular, but a consecutive set of tricks that Fritz has prepared —— But as he thought so, he experienced a sudden burst of incredible magicule. He turned his eyes wide towards its source. An earth-shaking shock wave was also sent as soon as he did that.

「Ara ara, that’s Shion-sama. She’s so reckless as always…」

Even hearing Anubis’ words, Fritz did not feel it’s any time to be concerning such issue. 「Yo-you’ve got to be kidding!? T-that’s Gerald’s “Inferno Spirit Flame”」

Fritz’s “Magic Detection” senses the casting of the most powerful magical attack of his collegue. And more to his surprise, the Majin named Shion was able endure It completely. Or rather, she straight up cut it in half.

Fritz freezes in shock at the abnormal sights. That was a tactical nuclear strike magic: something more powerful to even Heat disintegration, that’s likey one of the most powerful magic doable by human, and

19 金蛇角 94 even stronger than ultimates of elven magic… However, such an act seems to be done with ease by Majin who’s not even a demon lord.

That’s something Fritz’s common sense cannot process, a abnormal situation. Yet, such unrealistic sights continue. The sounds of fierce combats between weapons echo in the air. The strong wind invoked by the battles struck down the nearby vegetations.

Right now, Aruno of the Holy Knight Order, who’s strength is only next to Hinata has been dominating the red-hair Majin with his swordmanship. He should be domnitaing.

「Ah, Benimaru-sama is truly magnificent. He’s so eager to study, even about that person’s sword art.」

「Huh?」

Fritz heard the whisper of the seductive woman Anubis in front of him. Fritz couldn’t understand the meaning of her words. The red-hair Majin——Benimaru could only defend against the barrage of elegant yet furious sword attacks. Yet Anubis is only reveling watching Benimaru without worrying about his chances of triumph.

「What are you talking about? It’s obvious that it has been Aruno’s one-sided attack no matter how you look at it.」

Learning about sword art? There’s no way he has that time to spare. He won’t come out in one piece if he looks down to a genius such as Aruno like that. It should be like that.

But the problem for Fritz was Anubis’ silence. She only responded with a cold look at him. The sword and Tachi comes in contact without pausing. As the weapons dance front and forth, sparks flew as the two blades clashes. Anubis simply watch iin silent at the such sight.

Before Anubis turn back her eyes, Fritz couldn’t move, with his hands holding tight onto his sword

At hindsight, she is full of openings. But it’s obviously a dangerous temptation, so did Fritz’s six sense announce to him. But as long as he can buy some time, there’s no need to rush to attack. So thought Fritz, he decides to simply accompany Anubis in this way.

Momenets later, Anubis who’s been staring at Benimaru’s battle suddenly seemed to have lost interest and turned her eyes back on Fritz.

「The battle is over. Of course that man couldn’t rival Benimaru-sama.」

「No, that would mean Aruno’s strength in——」

Aruno should have had the advantage in winning. Yet even so Anubis announced Benimaru’s victory by herself. Fritz who has been upset about this through and through contained the anger in his heart and responded to Anubis. Yet he was stopped by Anubis with a raised hand.

「You are wrong, that’s simply how it looks look. The battle won’t last any longer, and surely you won’t be contented with just arguing. How about you and I just spend the time together to see Benimaru-sama’s battle to the end.」

Even though Fritz still couldn’t accept what she said, but it was his intent to request that. He only said that partially out of anger and partially to provoke his opponent.

「Well, it won’t matter since Aruno will definitely come out on top. Is it alright if tide turns on onee-chan like that?」 Yet Anubis laughed at Fritz’s provoking words,

Then—— 「Benimaru-sama, as a matter of fact, is someone who wields flame to consume all. Right now he’s only sparing you all for the convenience of his sword practice. If he is to fight seriously, your friend Aruno-kun is likely vaporized from this world already.」

That’s no mocking words towards a fool, but words out of pity for Fritz.

It all sounded very convincing to Fritz. He had the illusion of having cold sweat flowing down his back. His heart seems to have been grasped by fear.

(That’s just fear-mongering, my usual tactic. To make me lose my cool and fight without my full strength... I’ve heard rumors of “Golden Snake” Anubis being an intelligent strategist. It wouldn’t surprise me if she is to use psychological tactic to shake me…)

Even though if it was a lie, Fritz must convince himself to believe it. There’s no way he could admit that someone would go easy to avoid casualty when confronting them, the strongest existence among men, the holy knight order. Fritz though to himself. Yet the ruthless moment of truth finally arrives——

Fritz doesn’t know whether this Majin named Benimaru is actually good at using flam or not, but his swordmanship is definitely on par with Aruno. He was able to evade every fierce attack by Aruno’s sword using his giant tachi.

「Fu, fufu, it surprises me you are able to evade my attacks to this extent, neh.

And deflecting all of them, it’s almost as if you are slashing down water.」

「That is only natural. My master in swordmanship taught me the ultimate realm in sword fight is detecting the “flow”. If you listen to your sword’s sound carefully and become one with the sword, you can see that flow as clear as day. I’ve yet to reach that realm, but I’ve seen through your sword style.」

「Horrifying, horrifying indeed. It doesn’t seem that you are bragging either. If that’s the case, I’ve also made up my mind too. Behold, I shall demonstrate why I am called the strongest among the Holy Knight——」

The fight between Aruno and Benimaru has entered its climax under Fritz’s and Anubis’ observation. Fritz only heard of Aruno’s secret technique. Yet he never had the chance to witness in real life. The invinsible sword technique that is sait to be able to cut down any monster in one slash. It is the strongest sword technique wielded only by Aruno, the one adored by five elemental spirits, and who’s strength is only next to Hinata.

「Behold the magic purifying shine and brand it onto your body. Take this, Five- elemental spirit sword——!!」

Aruno’s beloved sword shines out five beams of light. Earth, water, fire, wind and air, the spiritual lights of five different elements. All of these beams contract and releases a killing blow which cannot be shielded by any type of defense. The shiining blade flies towards Benimaru.

(Is this Aruno’s ultimate… Mah, I thought he would never show that in front of others. Can’t believe he’s been pushed to this point…. Fritz thought so while confirming his friend’s victory. However!

「Naïve——Pulse · Flowing water slash!!」

The Majin Benimaru raises his Tachi and swings out without panicking. As a result, Aruno’s shining blow was received gently by Benimaru’s tchi. His sword blown into the air with the echo of a clear sound.

Fritz wasn’t able to see a thing, but it was possible to infer what happened. To put it simply, Benimaru’s technique was able to destroy the power of Aruno’s attack. The shock wave of it propagated towards Aruno. Having realized that, Aruno released his sword out of fear for the wave harming his sword-holding hand. Fritz couldn’t imagine anything else and had to believe that

(In other words, this bastard called Benimaru even master better sword art than Aruno!?) He can’t laugh at it even if it’s a joke. This is all nightmare like experience to Fritz…… Yet it’s all reality.

「 I told you, your technique has been seen through. Your sword art is still amateurish. But it’’s psssable in terms of its power. But it is pointless if you can’t hit your target with it. I’d advice you to understand that point.」

Benimaru announces these to Aruno and sheathed his tachi.

「I-I’ve… lost….」

Aruno fell to his knees on the spot after admitting his defeat.

After witnessing the result, Anubis turns towards Fritz. 「Well, I told you so, didn’t I? There is no need to ever question about Benimaru- sama’s victory. But your friend did try his best. Then, what do you plan to do now?」

Anubis’ seductive eyes shed a light of curiosity and interest. She asked while observing how Fritz would react.

In response, Fritz—— (I can’t believe Aruno has lost…… This is way worse than I imagined. It still depends on how Hinata-sama and demon lord Rimuru would resolve everything, but I’d better make up my mind here. These people are not planning to kill us. But since the fight was started by Reynald, there’s no way we could just resume a friendly negotiation. But even so it doesn’t seem to matter much if I begin to fight as well……)

He observes his surrounding with “Magic detection” while being wavered in heart/ Aruno’s defeat is just as what he witnessed. The front at Reynald’s side seems to be settling with more and more holy knights falling. A complete defeat.

Bacchus on the other hand is putting up a equal fight against Beastketeer Sophia.

And Litierse—— She’s been tied up by some unknown things, and her face looks all blashing. The gray hair Majin next to her seems to be protecting her protecting Litierse in midst of some battle. The ones combating are, gray hair majin and water maiden

(Could that be, “Clone Jutso”? If that’s the case, it would make sense why his presence is barely felt)

What’s more to his surprise it’s the dmoniance expressed by the majin’s clone over water maiden. Its blows dealt by the hands of Clone, which should have been constructed using magicule, were effective even against higher spirits that has resistance against physical attack. Which means its summoner must be even stronger.

It would seem that Fritz has underestimated the threat of this gray hair Majin

99 purely based on the Magicule of its clone. In other words, it’s a misjudgement of the Majin’s strength from the start, a true mistake on Fritz’s part.

(Has Litierse also been defeated as well? Uncle Bacchus seems to be barely managing a draw. And who remains is only Hinata-sama———)

Her battle with demon lord Rimuru is something beyond Fritz’s understanding. Those are speeds unknown to commener——Even “Magic Detection” is meaningless in intepreting the on-going battle, whose speed has exceeded the processing power of human brain. Fritz’s concern would be meaningless regardless.

(I seem absolutely outmatched by sheer strength.) He would probably only hinder Hinata rather than giving her a hand. If that’s the case, there’s only one thing Fritz could do. He spoke to Anubis who’s been awaiting an answer.

「Although I don’t think there’s much more use trying to combat, do you mind spending some time with me? I would be ashamed to see my friends again if that’s not the case, wouldn’t I now?」

Fritz has dignity too. Even if victory or failure poses no purpose, the battle itself may hold some meaning. So thought Fritz.

——You just have to act like an idiot at places like that, Fritz—— Hinata would probably comment that.

Yeah, yeah——Yeah, Fritz thought to himself. But he doesn’t dislike that part of himself at all.

「Fufufu, alright then. You are beginning to impress me, Holy Knight Fritz-dono.」

「I’m most grateful. We have much to learn from each now, Beasteekeer——

“Golden Snake Horn” Anubis-dono——」

A tiny smile emerged on Fritz’s lips before he dived into the battle against Anubis.

Back to catalogue

100

101

102

Payday at Tempest City

The Opening festival has come to an end and the prosperous days continue. As part of it, Rigrudo is busy through out everyday. Although he’s occupied with lots of work, these are all fulfilling and joyful days.

And all of these are thanked to Rigrudo’s master. The glorious reward from his master——Demon lord Rimuru.

Thinking back in a few years’ time. Rigrudo was the elder of the original Goblin tribe. They were confronted witih the disappearance of the guardian of Jura Forest when he has yet been given a name.

The age of unrest unveiled. (We were just so lucky back then) Rigrudo couldn’t forget it with a grateful heart.

103

Had his Goblin underlings, under the dire circumstance accidentally done something to Rimuru-sama…… If that was the case, Rigrudo and his tribe would not be here today.

Still, Rimuru at the time already gives off immeasurable magicules. Which ended their thought to even attempting to attack him at the time. Rigrudo and his men weren’t planning on doing anything, from the outcome of it all, it has saved them.

(After all, with Rimuru-sama’s menance, we were able to clear out the direwolf threat. That smooth and shining fluid body that shouts aesthetic. Upon laying eyes on him in actions, it’s simply stupid to even think about defying him. I bet whoever he may have encountered will also express loyalty to him.)

Rigrudo nods to himself as he recalls the past. There’re such surprising outcomes in life. Rigrudo has made a wise choice. And for most of the people in this world, they would be unable to make such correct choice.

If Rimuru had showed up in different places, it might just end up in tragedy. For instance, what if he encountered human adventurers instead? Those who are incapable of seeing the nature of Mamono would probably make the judgement entirely based on the appearance of things. The outbreak of violent encounter in a matter of second could be anticipated. In other words, Rimuru’s first encounter with Rigrudo is in a sense, a blessing to both parties.

Afterwards, Rimuru accepted Rigrudo’s request and became their leader. Leading not only the Goblins, but the ogres, orcs, lizard men and forest spirits. Settling down within the forest and become the demon lord to command all races.

Rigrudo, who’s been reminenscent about the past in midst of a busy day, was called back to reality.

「Oh-oh, there you are. Rigrudo-dono, I’ve been looking for you for some time now.」

「Myourmiles-dono? Is there a problem?」

「Well, it’s not exactly a problem——」

104

Myourmiles stopped for a moment. He, a human, has been entrusted by Rimuru with the duty of managing the Finance department of Tempest state. He has become an irreplaceable member of the country, who also work very diligently like Rigrudo.

Rigrudo responds to Myourmiles with a smile. Thanks to Myourmiles, Rigrudo was able to resolve his own concerns. These concerns refer to his self-doubts of what Rimuru-sama is to the rest of his subordiantes. A demon lord with immense power. Rigrudo sighs at his lack of strength being subjected to such a powerful existence.

Among Rimuru’s subordinates, there are many Majin who’s known for their combat abilities.

For instance, the members of Kurenai20. These are strong individuals, far powerful than Rigrudo, who does not put shame to the name of Rimuru-sama’s subordinates.

Apart from that, there are the orcs led by Geld. They are not only pivotal and specialized to the city’s development, but also tasked with defending and guarding.

And then, we have Diablo. That Demon is extremely unusual. There is no doubt he bears immeasurable strength. It gives Rigrudo a cold shoulder simply imagining having to fight him as a foe. His loyalty towards Rimuru is unquestionable. Yet in reality, there are many who fear Diablo. He’s in good term with Ranga, and also agreed to Rigrudo’s request with a smile…. But even with that, anyone would be scared subconsciously in face of an obviously higher existence compared to oneself.

And so it bore the seed of Rigrudo’s concern. Given that at the moment, there are many power Majins who have joined under Rimuru’s reign. Rigrudo worries about what he can contribute as one of them. Even with such a thought, Rigrudo’s strength is easily above level A. It is simply that the subjects of comparison are too powerful instead of Rigrudo being weak. Or in other words, Rigrudo is a rather strong member within the Tempest state. But Rigrudo did not realize that and simply worked hard everyday in order to be

20 紅炎衆「クレナイ」Benimaru’s corps of soldiers 105 competent in Rimuru’s entrusted role to him as a Goblin king.

Like that however, presence of Myourmiles gave a saving solution to Rigrudo who’d been stuck in this state of doubt. The man who, has no concern for strength and even crosses the racial boundary of human and Mamono. The head of Finance department Myourmiles——Minister of Finance.

(So that’s the case all along, then there’s nothing to be worried about. Rimuru- sama has no pre-requisite for our strength, moreover, our master is a majestic demon lord! This just can’t do it, I am still too close-minded and caused myself such worries. There is no necessity for any concern. It is simply an instinct for Mamono to judge other based on the difference of strength.)

Rigrudo made a wry laugh as he realizes that. And then he abandoned his worries to focus more on the operations of the towns. It is for that reason Rigrudo is grateful towards Myourmiles in heart. Nowadays, Rigrudo ponders his lack of ability compared to Myourmiles, before, he treats him even more as a friend. It is for that reason Rigrudo talks to Myourmiles with much intimacy.

「Well, what seems to be the issue?」

「Ay, I feel as though myself alone won’t think up an answer. Rimuru-sama’s thrusted another hard task down my throat again.」

Myourmiles “complains”, seemingly with anger while unable to conceal the joy in his tone. Rigrudo smiles in hearing this. It is precisely the hard task he complains that is the proof of trust from Rimuru to him. Rimuru would never hand impossible task to his subordiantes, this thus symbolizes the expectations Rimuru has put in to Myourmiles.

「Right now I’m also learning hard abou the how the separation of powers work. What comes first now it’s legislation. Rimuru-sama has ordered me to draft our nation’s constitution.」

「Another over-the-top idea, he’s always the same…」

106

Even hough Rimuru acts as the king of a country, he seems to have no intention in running it. Since if he participates in politics, all his free time would be gone. Yet the authority lies not among the citiziens but on the leader Rimuru.

Tempest state——or Jura Tempest Federation that is based on alliance of multiple races. People of different personalities and ideologies all gathered under Rimuru’s protection is what makes the Tempest state a united nation. Bottom line being, if Rimuru is not around, there will be no nation to begin with. Rigrudo has nothing to say against Rimuru holding the authority. As such, he was handed with complete political authority for his hidden thoughts.

「Based on the current condition, we need to assemble key admninistration departements and establish a legislation department consisting of a thousand men alongside Judicial department to enforce the laws.」——So he was ordered

It’s clear that it’s an order after diplomatic conversations with the western states. But thankfully, he (Rimuru) wouldn’t just let go all of his responsiiilities. He also gave his opninos on the drafts…. But this is truly a bomb that he tossed on Rigrudo Even though he still happily followed through.

「Hahaha, that’s precisely my intent. So Myourmiles-dono, what type of thing are we talking here?」 Rigrudo, such a nice guy. He wouldn’t say no to his friend even though the task is difficult for himself.

Myourmiles was able to see through Rigrudo’s personality with the short time he spent with him. It is because of that he decided to talk to him with some remorse.

「Ya…. I’m truly sorry for interrupting your busy schedule. I wanted to resolve it myself, but I do want to hear your opinion about this certain thing before making any decision. Also, this may require the consensus from every departments.」

「Oh? What do you mean?」

「Hmm, as a matter of fact…」 107

Trying his best to not interrupt the busy Rigrudo—— Myourmiles thought to himself but regarding Rimuru’s order this time. It’s pretty hard for him to decide on. The subject at hand is ——「Construction of a salary system」

「Sa-lary?」

「Yes. To quote Rimuru-sama, “I want to express gratitude towards everyone working in our country.”」

「I see. We are already satisfied with basic fulfillments in food, clothes and residence. On top of that, Rimuru-sama has granted us meaningful work. We’ll probably get struck by lightening if we ask for anything more. However, it would seem that human has a different view on the subject. 」

Rimuru, who Rigrudo respects and love, is said to be human once. It is for that reason, he differs with the values of Mamono and grants rewards to us. Rigrudo nods in agreement thinking so. Myourmiles agrees to that as well and says:

「I personally also understand Rimuru-sama’s intent. People tend to work extra hard upon receiving rewards for their work. 」

「Hmm, I was thinking to shut the greedy ones up with my pair of fists… But I can’t really get in the way of Rimuru-sama’s idea. Then, how much the appropriate salary would be as a reward… hmm, this sure is a difficult question.」

「Honestly, we are rather sparing in finance right now. We can try to give out weekly funds as salary. But in the end, I’m skeptical about how much of the funds everyone can spend…」

Rigrudo finally realizes how complicated the issue really is upon hearing Myourmiles’ words. It’s easier to just set a salary, yet to the Manomo who has always practiced the

108 survival of the fittest, the concept of monetary has never been introduced to them. If they desire something, they can simply take it with brute force. This is how their way of survival.

Additionally, another reason being that Manomo isn’t as careful with and good at managing their money as opposed to scheming merchants. There may be few of them who can even count their cash. Right now with Rimuru’s instructions, the population who’ve learnt about these aptitudes has increased. Yet for the most part as of now, most Manomo are still incapble of reading and writing. It would be useless trying to distribute salary to them.

「If they are unable to utilize the paid salary, there would be no point in rewarding them.」

「That’s precisely the issue. Besides, even if they are able to use it. If they simply store up the money without transactions, this may lead to stagnations in the economy. I would want to avoid that from happening.」

Even if we set out with good intention to create this system. It has no value if it will only hinder the progress of the nation. To bear such concerns reflects that Myourmiles is a worthy individual with visions. Rigrudo is also able to understand Myourmiles’ message even on this complex subject. In reality, most people would likely save the salary out of appreciation. The wiser ones would consider what to do with the money. But, since most Manomo are satisfied with their current condition, they probably won’t think of anything of use to purchase. Besides, whatever is given by Rimuru is already treasure beyond the values of currency to the Mamono. It would likely be more important to change their conceptions of things before we deliver the paycheck. Rigrudo thought to himself.

「Hmm, this sure is a difficult question…」

Rigrudo whispers to himself. It’s also no easy job to consider the amount of payment and the respective work loads, but before that, the educational issue regarding the usage of currency must

109 be resolved first. Rigrudo considers himself a fast-thinker, yet with Myourmiles’ question, he can only think hard to himself. It would also be prepostureous to go discuss the matter with Rimuru. This is really jarring—— Rigrudo and Myourmiles look at each other awkwardly and fall silent.

「Kufufufufu, this sounds like an interesting topic.」

Diablo who shows up out of nowhere, gave both a bright smile and interjected their disucussion.

◇◇◇ Rigrudo is rather suspicious upon seeing his smile.

Unlike Benimaru, who’s straight forward with his thoughts and spits out whatever he thinks, Diablo is very different. He’s always able to think before time to have the best solution. This is especially the case when it concerns his own interest. If Diablo shows interest like that, he’s definitely scheming something.

(This look, he must be thinking some devious idea! Diablo’s got a good head. I must stay focus now to not get tricked here.)

Rigrudo turns towards Diablo with such resolve.

「Isn’t this Diablo-dono? I thought you were supposedly enjoying your holiday, is it not?」

「Indeed, I’ve been persuing chess-pieces that are going to work in my place.」

「Oh. How did that go?」

Myourmiles asks, who is responded with a calm and natural expression from Diablo,

「They, of course, accepted the offer in a heartbeat.」

This means I can be Rimuru-sama’s secretary full-heartedly now.

110

——His expression says everything. Although the part of “in a heart-beat” is questionable, Diablo definitely found some subordinates.

「This is great. Then, since you have overheard our conversation Diablo-dono.

What’s your opinion?」

Rigrudo throws out the line cautiously. While showing an expression determined not to be deceived. Rigrudo cannot handle Diablo easily. He will become a pawn in his palm as soon as he gets careless. Although Diablo also shows much respect towards Rigrudo. Since both of them are serving the same master Rimuru. If Rimuru ever disappears, Diablo would likely lose interest in this nation, right? But if it really comes to that, the country would likely collapse on its own……

「Kufufufufu. This salary, needs not to be in cash, does it?」

「Hmm?」

「Hmm. I’ve considered regarding that point. However, it is also time-consuming to learn everone’s preference even if we decide to pay in goods. It would again be meaningless to issue objects of no significance to the recipient. It’s also rather unrealistic to hear everyone’s demands….」

By paying in goods, it removes the concern regarding their stashing of money. But this would be too costly. 。 After all, every citizen already has a minimum welfare. Myourmiles thus judge the proposal unfeasible. However, Diablo’s smile remains.

「No, no. You’ve got the wrong idea. Think about it, haven’t we already got a model? Right now, the canteen is using point-system for ordering, right? What if we utilize the point-system again for this.」

He proposes that out, staring at the two.

111

「Speaking of points, do you mean the “effort point” that grants you access to appointment of the special menu?」

「If I recall, it is a accumulative point-system to correspond the work one does.

Actually… 「I see! It’s only approved through the stamping from each department, so it has nothing to do with money. Then there’s no need to consider the stashing of cash nor do we need to investigate their personal preference. Hmm, this might be a good plan!」

Myourmiles begins to show interest in the proposal before Rigrudo could understand. And he excitedly starts to one idea over another. Diablo also smiles happily as he listens.

(Oya, have I been too cautious around Diablo-dono? I thought he is uninterested in anything else other than Rimuru-sama. It would seem he’s also willing to lend a helping hand to others. I really shouldn’t have judged others with prejudice. )

Rigrudo reflects to himself. A really easily manipulated man. And so Rigrudo was tossed aside while Myourmile discuss more and more with Diablo.

「But the question being, how can we effectively utilize the point-system?」

「Hmm. Let’s not limit the items exchangeable through points to special menu, should we?」

「 That’s most true. After all, there are Manomo who are not particularly interested in food. There are also a lot of whom that are fond of desserts now under Rimuru-sama’s influence. We should also consider those who do not require food.」

「 That’s most likelly a blind-spot. Just as Diablo-dono said, there are ones uninterested in food. If we’ll effectively apply the point-system, we should also compensate these members. What an amazing plan!」

「 No, no, it’s really nothing. Rather, what should we prepare for the point 112 exchange. That would be an important question, right?」

「Indeed, then what should we do…」

Rigrudo gradually catches up listening to their conversation. He’s also amazed at Diablo’s clever suggestion.

(Sasuga Diablo-dono. No wonder he has the wisdom to fill the role as Rimuru’s secretary. Aiya, it’s my own short-coming that led me to question his intent. I’ve got to improve on how I see others——

As such, Rigrudo shows much respect to him. Then he begins to express his own opinions.

「Hmm, I believe some may be amuzed by Kurobee-dono’s weapons and Shuna- sama’s newly produced clothes.」

「Wow, that’s for sure. If we are to sell the products to the public as well, how about consider using the points to arrange priority in purchase.」

「I see. In that sense, Gobuta’s fishing rod may be a surprisingly popular item.

After all, it’s hand-made by Rimuru-sama. Then let Doldo-dono make some similar gadgets with his crew.」

「That sounds great, I’ve also fallen in love with the fun of fishing and wanted one.」

「Hahaha, then I should get you a test rod when the time comes.」

「No, no, we should sell that as well. Please leave the matter to me.」

「That’s more than I could wish for. In that way, there’s one more item on the list of special owned by our country.」

Hahaha, Whaha; Rigrudo and Myouriles happily exchange their ideas. The two seem highly motivated now with the seeming resolution to the headaching question.

113

Diablo remains smiling while observing the two. And suddenly, out of nowhere——

「The right to serve Rimuru-sama for a day, how about it?」

「He rather naturely stated his opinion as if dripping a drop of poison.」

「Ha?」

「Eh?」

Rigrudo couldn’t utter a word while Myourmiles is so shocked that he suspects he has misheard Diablo. Diablo on the other hand starts to explain calmly as if nothing happened.

「No, it’s really not that big a deal. Similar to how Rimuru-sama wishes to appreciate us, we’d also like to be grateful to Rimuru-sama, should we not?」

「O-of course that’s the case……」

「I-I also feel deeply grateful for being trusted and employed by Rimuru-sama…」

「Isn’t that right? That’s why we should allow everyone to compete fairly for the opportunity to express their heartened gratitudes. But that’s just my opinion.」

Indeed——Diablo exclaims so confidently. Myourmiles still has the same expression while Rigrudo couldn’t begin to agree.

「No, but shouldn’t Rimuru-sama consent to this as well?」

「Of course! That’s without saying and only natural. However, if someone is to occupy Rimuru-sama’s time, there should only be one person per-day in a month to be given such an honor. In this way, the rarity of this reward will also go up with fiercer competition. We should also be able to motivate everyone with a high- point reward.」

Hmm, Rigrudo also whipers to himself. There is benefit in Diablo’s suggestion.

114

However, there’s still some unacceptable points.

「H-however… to have Rimuru-sama greet us would be most disrespectful. And would it really be a reward if we are to server Rimuru-sama?」

Rigrudo expresses his doubts. Diablo, however, sighs in response.

「Rigrudo-dono, please think it over. To server Rimuru——wouldn’t it imply to spend a day with him while there being just the two of you?」

「EH, HMMM?」

「In other words, you get to see operas together, serving drinks to Rimuru-sama when he reads, dine together and spend the day together!」

「NA-NANI!?」

「We get to serve Rimuru-sama while also accepting Rimuru-sama’s gratitude.

How about it, isn’t it a wonderful idea?」

The demon explains smoothly Rigrudo reaches a sudden realization. ——Forced to be enlightened. It is Rigrudo’s naivity that led to his failure. And speaking of which, Myourmiles on the other hand.

(I already get to get a drink and meal with Rimuru-sama quite often… If this is to go public, I’ll probably get envied. Hmm, so I’ll just be silent here for now!)

A smart decision. A capable man is indeed different from others. He didn’t slip off that fact to Diablo.

Then, Myourmiles begins to conclude regarding the draft and later submits to Rimuru.

115

◇◇◇ Rimuru’s been organizing documents in his room when Myourmiles hands over the files regarding the salary system. Diablo stands next to Rimuru in assisting the filing. He’s been resuming his role of No.2 Secretary as usual after his “vacation” ended a few days ago.

「Wow, has it been completed, Myourmiles?」

「Yes, we’ve come to an conclusion with much thought put into it. As it states, we will not pay in cash but extending the point-system that is more ideal. But these are just my opinions.」

Myourmiles reported as such. Rimuru nodded happily in response. From that bright expression, one can see the remorse Rimuru has felt for not properly compensating his subordinates with all their work. Rimuru looked through the document and frowned upon seeing the top option.

「Hmm? Wh-what is this… the right to serve me…?」

Of course there will be doubts regarding it, Myourmiles thinks to himself.

「About the option of “the right to serve Rimuru-sama”, it’s in accordance to Rimuru-sama’s faith in everyone in the nation. I come up with it believing that everyone working in this country would be most grateful towards Rimuru-sama.」

Myourmiles has prepared his answers before the presentation. It won’t really be an issue if that one reward is ruled out. Which is why he’s all calm without a sign of panic. Diablo observes it all and gave it a small smile.

「As I recall, it was a request from Rigrudo-dono right?」

「Heh, Rigrudo? That guy is way too serious. There’s really no need to concern me with in the first place」.

116

Rimuru forced a smile upon hearing Diablo’s words It can be seen that Rimuru put much trust in Rigrudo. If it’s told that it was Diablo who came up with the proposal. Rimuru would probably be more careful and discuss about it. But, hearing that it was what Rigrudo thinks. Rimuru is simply moved without paying it a second thought. Yet that is precisely Diablo’s goal.

(Kufufufufu, all according to my Keikaku! This right was the most vital from the start. It will probably be abandoned in no time, so I’ll show you all who’s the victor when everyone eles are just prtending to observe.)

Diablo laughes to himself while plotting so. It is precisely for only Diablo would do something like this that Rigrudo was alerted of him. It is something that would eventually happen even without the person noticing.

「Hmm, however, it’s probably not wise to use all the points they collected with hardwork on me…」

Rimuru still couldn’t accept some aspects of it. And so Myourmiles responds:

「…..Indeed, it’s exactly as you say. However, everyone who’s discussed about the proposal has nothing but praise to say about it. What’s more, if one still decides to exchange for it even if the points for exchange is set high, it would show how much gratitude they feel towards Rimuru-sama. If it’s a choice by the purchaser, it’s his voluntary actions. So I think we should wait and see how everyone reacts to it first.」

「Hmm, is that so? It certainly seems so with everything you just said. Well I suppose it’s fine, since they won’t be able to make so many points again in a short span of time. I shall observe it in effect then.」

「Then would you agree to the proposal?」

Rimuru ceases thinking and decides to approve the proposal. And so it gained Rimuru’s approval.

117

——Diablo did a victory pose in secret, no one noticed.

◇◇◇ And so, two months later——

「Aiyi, Rigrudo. It’s nice of you to have proposed “the right to serve me”, but we should probably cancel it.」

Rimuru summoed Rigrudo to tell him this.

「Ha, Eh? What do you mean?」

Somehow the proposer turned from Diablo to myself. Rigrudo has many doubts, but he hid them for the time and asked Rimuru the reasons

「As a matter of fact, it’s Diablo who first obtained the right. And it’s him this month again. It would seem that he has been collecting points behind my back. If we continue on, I feel as every right will be in his pocket.」

Rimuru answered. (I’ve been PLAYED like a DAMN FIDDLE!? So it’s true, I should have never believed that demon!)

Rigrudo realizes that he has been completely dooped by Diablo as if the sky has fallen It would seem Diablo has even considered the abolishment of the right in his plan. In other words, once the situation devolves to this, that right would be held on a peddlestone as a fantasy-like rights, further adding to its value. The impossibility in obtaining “the right to serve Rimuru-sama”——

And the only one who’s allowed to exercise the right has been Diablo and him alone. And everything has been under his control.

(Wuuu, I’m still too naïve. I’ve already seen through his cunningness yet still lost to his tricks.)

118

Such regrets hardly matter at this point. In the end, as Rigrudo has thought, “the rights to server Rimuru-sama” become a fantasy. What remains are many Mamono’s enviness and complaints. As well as Rigrudo’s regret.

However, this did not happen for nothing. Another point-system is appointed regarding the salary problem that is based on a reward system in Tempest state. A more complete and detailed structure is built.

——That is, the story of the salary issue in Tempest state’s early independence, when the kingdom still lacked a complete national system.

Back to catalogue

119

Goddess of the Ever-night Kingdom (Spoiler for Light Novel Volume 6, 7)

Important story differences in Light Novel: (move to next page for story)

- Ruminas’ first appearance during during Walpurgis was in disguise of a maid, accompanied by Louis Valentine, her servant and the demon lord vampire in name known to the human world.

- Chloe’s coffin was not stolen during Walpurgis. Jester Laplace who carried out the task was spotted by Hinata and chased out of Ruberios. Instead, Laplace eliminated Louis Valentine as he encounters him after the Walpurgis upon hearing the death of Clayman, a close friend of Laplace.

- Hinata has already discovered Ruminas’ real identity as a demon lord. In the Light novel, Ruminas runs the country by creating a trinity of power with her servants. She acts as the Goddess of the Holy Church, her vampire servant Roy Valentine poses as the pope of the church, Roy’s twin brother Louis Valentine poses as demon lord to set a common enemy for the church to confront. Hinata serves Ruminas believing this blissful ignorance is beneficial to the people of Ruberios and thus continued to serve Ruminas.

- Hinata and Rimuru’s confrontation is not spontaneous in light novel, instead it was set up by the Seven Celestial Sages to purge both the newly emerged Mamono power that is Rimuru, and the increasingly prominent force in Ruberios that is Hinata. The Celestial sages did so partly due to the manipulation of their leader Guren, who has other intention, and to regain their position of power in the western world out of their own desire.

- Ruminas personally intervened the confrontation in order to save Hinata, who was set up by the sages and was nearly killed. Ruminas thus was able to communicate and make peace with Rimuru directly.

- Ruminas attended the opening festival of Tempest state. She was impressed by a musical performance put up by Rimuru and later invited the band, Rimuru and children of Ingracia to Ruberios for cultural exchange, this will lead to the event of Hero awakening in WN “Devil’s secret maneuver” arc.

120

My name21 is Ruminas. Ruminas Valentine. Ruler of the old world——Vampire.

I was the one at the top of the food chain, Queen of nightmare. ——However, politics are truly troublesome and upsetting to me. I needed only to pose as if I’m being thoughtful and nod in agreement.

If that’s the case, it would be good to have subordinate to deal with it in my place.

In more ancient time, I acquired Gunther——the king of an opposing force under my reign. It was definitely the right choice. Gunther has freed me from my duty and built up a system of ruling. Even though he would complain at times, all our accomplishments at work have been been dependent on him. And for that alone, my kingdom prospers.

21 Japanese pronune used here is 妾 (warawa), which is how female royalty/queen addresses themselves

121

Yet even so, I still get shit from that fucking lizard (Veldora). (D: This is legit what she says, check footnote for the detail) 22 If I haven’t met Chloe at the time, there would have been hell to pay. Just thinking about it makes me feel appreciation for Chloe beyond words. And of course, Hinata as well who was within Chloe. I’ve treated tham both as true friends from that point onward. But even though I act as though nothing’s wrong with the two, it’s not actually the case.

I have points of complaint towards about the two. And if anything, it would be how unspeicifc their descriptions of events are.

「Yeah, there’s about to be a huge earthquake——」

So I was told to beware of it. But then, it only came in decades’ time.

「There’s gonna be an epidemic, please be prepared for it——」

Even though that may be the case, we can only deal with the speicifcs of the plague after the outbreak begins.

And so, so many other, countless examples, Chloe’s testimonies are simply too vague. At first, I thought it was unclear due to her memories being blurry. But then I realize. Chloe has been doing it on purpose. She has no intention to prevent any disaster from happening. Chloe is a kind person. Yet why would someone as kind as Chloe not try to prevent crises while knowing all about them?

I further confirmed my doubts with more and more unnatural results occurring. There’s reduction in the casualties of the disasters after every incident——she has leaked such intel to me with the pre-emptive decision to hide some key information from me.

So why would Chloe do such things? Since I also believe her words that she can know the future. It is precisely that I have no doubt towards her words that amounted to my discontent…..It should be a friend’s duty, my duty to consider what she thinks. And I reached a conclusion.

22 she says “クソトカゲ”/damn (fucking) lizard. I think it fits her character quite well. 122

Chloe doesn’t wish to change the future. To be more precise, it’s to ensure she walks the path she knows and wanted.

Wouldn’t it be better to at least to share her real thoughts with me… That is what I wanted to complain. Although I’ve thought that to myself, we still maintained on very good terms. We’ve known each other heart to heart after having spent more than a thousand year together. And it’s a real joy for me that she gave that god damn Veldora a good beating. Yet such wonderful days I had lived with her suddenly came to an end.

「As a matter of fact, Ruminas, I——may be disappearing soon.」

「What do you mean?」

「Well, it may be a little exaggerated to say I’m disappearing. It’s more like falling asleep. Howeveer, Hinanta would still remain for a while, so you could say it’s a personality swap.」

「Personality swap…」

I was plunged into confusion being told such information by chloe out of the blue. This is also one of Chloe’s bad habit. She knows too much herself and always fails to explain them well to others.

Afterwards, I get to know the details from her. I reached some level of understanding when I inquired from her about the events in the future. It would seem by the time Chloe visits this world, due to the existence of multiple Chloes (D: Chloe coming to the world with Leon), the consciousness of the current version would thus disappear. As such, Hinata will take her place and swap its personality. That’s about how it works. It was fine. But there’s a problem that arised soon.

「 So, in another three hundred years, wouldn’t it be time for Hinata’s consciousness to disappear?」

「Hmm, it would probably be the case.」

「I understand. When that time comes, I shall personally seal you up with my 123 power.」

Rather than being sentimental about Chloe’s disappearance, what comes next must be thought through with caution. It’s fine as long as Hinata sticks around, but it seems she would disappear eventually as well. In that case, what would happen to the chole remained.

According to their speculation, it will undoubtedly lose control. Within Chloe, there seems to dwell a 「broken consciousness」(Chorora) that knows the future. If that consciousness awakes, it will likely take over as the third personality and rain destruction to the world.

That’s truly a troublesome issue I got informed of. But I would do what I can for my friend’s sake. Even though I felt like some important elements has been tweeked in the explanation have been intentionally left out by Chloe and Hinata. I would still choose to trust them.

◇◇◇ This is a disaster! This isn’t just some tweek, things went completely different from what I heard. No, if it’s all together completely different I would have just given up trusting the narrative. But everything has been the same even when Hinata arrives. But after that, after the appearance of the slime named Rimuru, things went completely different.

「Rimuru-san is a magnificent individual as well as my benefactor. But a lot would happen to the point where Hinata and Rimuru-san would confront each other, so Ruminas, you must not intervene.」

I decided to observe having been told so. But the chaos simiply continued abrupting. The one who took the initiative was Hinata. But I was reassured. From what I heard from Chloe, the battle at Ingracia kingdom could be avoided. But… how did this develop to the point that Rimuru is deliberating waging battle against Hinata.

——Due to the conspiracy in Falmas, the surrounding council states have reached

124 consensus to have Hinata to lead an army and confront Tempest Federation. At the time, Hinata and Rimuru was able to reach an agreement and achieve peace— —

Or so I heard, but as soon as Rimuru and Hinata finished their battle. I was able to confirm that nothing I’ve heard held any credibility. At the time, I had a bad feeling of the future. And that foresight became a reality.

——Rimuru became a demon lord—— Falmas Kingdom waged war on its own and was eliminated without survivor. It is rumored that they were devastated as a result of Veldora’s resurrection, but that is also questionable.

Moreover, the issue at hand was Rimuru who had become a demon lord. In the coming Walpurgis Banquet to discuss what to do with the self-proclaimed demon lord Rimuru. With how everything was I felt the necessity to attend. I then decided to participate in disguise as a maid. Even though it is said otherwise in the future, I shouldn’t get on Rimuru’s bad side. I’m fine with the outcome, but it would be bad if I hurt Chloe’s heart in that way. If anything, I could even take him under my protection——I thought these to myself and observed the development of the banquet.

Rimuru turned out to be an unexpectedly impressive individual. He didn’t fringe in front of all the demon lords and was able to state his opinions rightesouoly. On that basis, he deliberately provoked Clayman and led things in favour of his side, dominating the situation. I’m rather impressive about it. But I was also concerned for him, given I wasn’t able to see how things would develop.

At last, Rimuru was officially recognized as a demon lord and became a part of the “Eight-star demon lord”. And he exposed my identity so casually, ruining my plan of passing the name of demon lord to Roy. Now I had to be crowded the title again in such awkward circumstance. This gives me headache, so I thought——But it really can’t be helped.

Every, single, problem was CAUSED BY THAT EVIL DRAGON!

But my suffering continued even after the unrest at Walpuris Banquet. In retrospect, Roy who I entrusted the title of demon lord with was murdered. And I didn’t even have time to respond before Hinata set out to make peace with Rimuru.

125

I also thought it would be bad to antagonize Rimuru. So I decided to keep an eye on how things development…

Too dangerous. Hinata stepped right into a trap and almost got killed. Had I not intervened things will seriously go south. The conspirators being the “seven celestial saints” that I’ve put on the back of my head. The head of the group, Guren instigated them into betraying me.

Then—— As such, there’s another party who are hostile towards Chloe. Hinata and Rimuru fought and at last, recognized each other as companion. Or so described by Chloe, not stating why there was a second battle. Moreover, she never mentioned about Guren’s betrayal. Things totally develop differently from the future Chloe told——but is it really the case? Or perhaps there was reason for it…… I wouldn’t reach a conclusion now with everything that’s been going on. I wouldn’t be able to see my friends Chloe and Hinata now anyway.

Regardless. The misunderstanding towards Hinata was resolved and I was able to set things right with Rimuru. I was rather worried about my personal involvement at the battlefield, but things seemed to have worked out fine.

By the way, I got to execute revenge on Veldora. I got a lot happier seeing a crying Veldora.

126

He’s also different from before——not causing havoc everywhere. I’m quite surprised seing it and even more learning that he’s actually listening to other people. Now that’s a shocker. I’ve honestly begun to question my eyes seeing him following Rimuru’s order like a puppy. Could this be, part of the future Chloe foresaw?

Chloe always gave a look that she wanted to say something everytime I complain about Veldora. It would seem Hinata within Chloe held a special grudge towards him. But even so she didn’t see Veldora as a necessary evil to exterminate. And that all serious Hinata with a strong sense of justice has probably forgiven Veldora by now. Even so, they did give him a good beat-down when sealing him, that’s probably why she forgave him at the time. But, the current version of Veldora isn’t so annoying after all, so I though.

◇◇◇ Due to the actions untold in the foresights, I was able to know Rimuru myself. But to think it in a different light, it is rather lucky. Not only are we both “Eight- star Demon Lord” now, we get to talk directly. And I was determined then to utilize the opportunity well.

127

Rimuru brought us to the bath house before the feast celebrating the reconciliation. A bathhouse, it’s where the maids fill the tub with water and help me to wash my body, right? Metabolism is unnecessary for my body, so there’s no need to bathe. But I enjoy it regardless as a symbol of luxury.

Or so I thought how this is initially, but it’s a completely different case when we reached the bath house. There it has a wide pool with the capacity for dozens of people. In fact, there are hot water pouring into the pool from the refined stone tubs. There are tubs constructed with aromatic wood and room heated with hot air to warm oneself.

「Wh-what is this…」

「This, hot spring…? And there are Sonna and everything. That man really does whatever comes to his mind…...」

I was shocked by the unfamiliar infrastructure, but it seems Hinanta alongside me was surprised in a different sense. The variety of infrastructures all seemed familiar to Hinata. I listened to Hinata’s explanation as we bathe.

「I see. So Rimuru has recreated the facility he knew in this world, right?」

「That is the case. I’m quite surprised by the facilities on the streets, but they are nothing compared to this. I wonder how much labor and funds were invested to build such amazing facilities.」

「In the end of the day, Rimuru is a newly Risen Demon Lord. If he is to command all his Mamono, such labor is probably a piece of cake.」

「It may be the case… but still I can’t really accept it.」

Hinata seemed frustrated by it. That’s to be expected. Hinata has fought hard in order to improve the standard of living of the people

128 till now. Although her hardwork has shown seeds of pogress gradually, she still needs some years before any fruits of that to be born. On the other hand, these achievements are so casually displayed in Rimuru’s country. So it can’t be helped that Hinata was unable to enjoy its fruits.

However. This bathhouse was really nice. I have to admit that. After all I got to appreciate Hinata’s beautiful nude ( °͡ ͜ʖ °͡ ) (D: Ruminas is a vampire of culture I see)

Those were necter for my eyes. Her body without a single piece of clothing on. Her tight waist, curved hip with beautifully sketched outlines. Her ample pair of fruit proudly announces their existence, giving me the scenery of my life ( °͡ ͜ʖ °͡ ) It is the beauty worthy to be an art piece, mesmorizing the viewer. Her pale white skin smooth as newly fallen snow, with a pinch of cherry red. It’s all thanked to Rimuru’s recreation of a hot spring bath that I am able to now justifiably appreciate a lustrous Hinata. If I get to spend joyful hours like this, I should build a bath house in my country as well——I made up my mind secretly.

「Ah, this is heaven.」

「Hmm, indeed.」

「I mean, you don’t have to be so alerted. Rimuru won’t do annoying things like spying on us.」

「So, there’s no need to enable 「Magic detection」everywhere」 ——Hinata laughed at me.

That was close, that was close… I got misunderstood when I was merely just trying to better appreciate her naked body.

「Hmm-ummm, yeah.」

I unwillingly deactivated “magic detection” as I responded.

129

◇◇◇ It’s time for the feast after the bath. Before my eyes are cuisines I’ve never seen before. Also, a new challenge awaits me among them.

The two sylinder sticks by my hands——the utensile called “Chopstick”. I’ve heared it’s used in the east and the eastern empire, but it’s my first time seeing a pair. In other words, I’ve got no idea how to use them. Actually, I’m just not confident I could wield it well despite knowing its usage. Ruminas who is perfect in whatever she does has no clue in using chopstick——I can’t let such rumor spread out. Moreover, Veldora is here as well. If I am to mess up in front of him, god knows what type of shinaningan he would pull on me. If he dares to pull a smirk “pu-hehe” at me, I’ll probably get the rage to start a war. In order to prevent such outrage, I’ll have to overcome the challenge at hand.

I was thinking really hard for a solution while maintaining a clam outlook. And then——

「Well, let us raise our cups for the courageous battles fought by everyone here, cheers!」 Rimuru’s word set the feast in motion.

There were a variety of steamy, delicious-looking dishes while a golden drink was poured into my shining glass cup. I’ve got some unique view on gourmets, too. And by simply looking at them, I could tell each dish possesses top-notch quality. In this type of circumstance, manner is the most important thing in feasting.

I made up my mind and raise the glass cup. Down it goes. To observe the surrounding others while taking a drink. I probably would be able to come up with some great plan in that way——I sip and think to myself.

「This is really tasty.」

Somehow that slipped out of my mouth, but it’s undoubtedly my honest opinion. The cooling sensation went through my throat elegantly. It is a refreshing experience unknown to me, who possesses extended knowledge about wines.

130

The Holy Knights attending alongside me also express surprise towards this good wine.

「Huu, it’s cold. Could this be beer?」

「It’s alright I guess. It took me some effort to recreate it and it’’s on-par with what

I drank in Japan. It’s quite similar you know.」

「Is that so? I don’t exactly think it’s that tasty even if it’s my first-time drinking.

But compared to the beer23 in this world, I’d definitely drink this over them.」

Hinata expressed her thoughts to Rimuru like that. This reminds me of what I heard before, when Hinata first travelled to this world she was a student and was underage. I taught her how to drink when she said she’s never tried any alcohol.

How would a drunk Hinata lose her manner——I was hoping to see that…. But then Hinata left me with the line “It doesn’t even taste that nice” and shows no sign of getting drunk. Rather than her physique, she probably gained 「poison resistance」.

「You’d say so because you are not used to it. I also thought that beer isn’t all that nice at the beginning. But then when I visit small pub after work more often… One should definitely get a cup of beer after work——I just gradually got such mind- set.」

「Hmm, is that so? I’ve only drunk warm beer around here, and wine tastes sour so I really find them both pretty average.」

「That’s because you’ve got tongues of a kid okay. I’d agree that warm beer is not tasty, but there’s good wines out there. Like the ones served during the Walpuris Banquet, it was surprisingly tasty——」

Of course they were Whatever gets served there has to be approved by Guy. So there’s no reason why

23 The word used here to describe the “beer” in slime world is 麥酒 (Biru) 131 it won’t taste good.

「Is that so? But how would I know if it’s true without tasting.」

「I suppose that’s how it works. But those luxurious stuff won’t come so easily. Or rather, for Hinata-chan who’s got a kid’s tongue, here’s a drink probably better suited for you.」

「You’ve been going over and over about the whole “kid’s tongue” thing from just now, are you looking down on me?」

「NO, THERE IS NO SUCH THING, LADY.」

Hinata stares at Rimuru, who’ve prepared a fragarent fruit liqour. Something like juice——but as I thought so, I discovered it actually has quite the alcohol in it.

「How dare you give me drinks for kids—— eh? This is pretty tasty.」

And with clever phrasing Rimuru was able to recommend another drink to Hinata. Hinata, who’s been kept in a loop, got tricked the sweet flavouor and started to get drunk soon enough. Hinata, unlike her usual strict self, shows signs of drunkness with her face gradually turning red.

ARE YOU A GENIUS?!!—— I now am deeply shocked by the strategizer side of Rimuru. As such cleverly, he played Hinata so easily.

It may be that I’ve lowered my guard out of respect for Rimuru that I reched out to the dishes in front of me with my bare hands. I completely forgot about me not knowing how to use chopsticks and simply grabbed the food with my fingers. This is really shocking. I immediately turned my attention from Rimuru and Hinata to the dishes.

The crispy taste which are accompanied by the thick and lasting deliciousness that spread in my mouth after the bite. Is this what they call Tempura? It is truly tasty for a first try. And they’ve prepared napkins, so I need not mind dirtying my fingers.

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I’m satisfied with such long-dued dinning of fine food and reached out for the cup. I want to try the fruit drink Hinata just tasted. Now I see why it’s so tasty. Its aroma is uncanny with the sweetness that spread in your mouth as you take a sip. It’s obvious to me they have not spared the use of honey and sugar in making it.

「Ruminas-sama, I also recommend this one.」

The Kijin named Shuna handed over a transparent glass cup as she said so. 「Hmm, then I shall taste it.」

「Very well.」

And she poured some delicious-looking colourless fluid in the cup. A fragrance that reminds me of the gifts of the forest while it fills around the air. This is something else as well… I swallowed my saliva and carefully maintained my elegant behavior, then pass the cup to my mouth.

「This is delicious!」 It’s neither sweet or bitter. A pure and elegant taste 「Thanks for your kind words. There is abundant much of it, so do take more as you desire.」

「Hmm, I should do just that.」

I responded happily.

I did not expect a newly appointed Demon Lord could have done such a comprehensive receivinat. And somehow without prior contact, they’ve managed to prepare such a feast… In other words, they’ve always been leading such a comfortable life. I thought so as I devour all the delicious food and drink.

「Are our meals to your taste?」

「Hmm, very much so. The dishes and drinks are all delicious.」

Rimuru came to make small talk with me.

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「That would be great. However, you should probably know your limit, or it would be harmful for your health.」

「Stop being silly. No poison can affect me so how would I ever lose to alcohol. Or rather, I have to weaken my poison resistance in order to experience drunkness.」

I was rather delighted when speaking up my mind without being polite. It may be for that reason that I taught Rimuru the secret of controlling his skills without hesitation.24

◇◇◇ Just like that, I was able to build an alliance with Rimuru as well as having a friendly relationship. But that’s just where the problem begins. The future I’ve heard of has been drastically different from the situation now.

Rimuru shouldn’t have become a demon lord and Falmas kingdom should have survived. The Holy kingdom of Ruberios should not have an alliance with Jura-Tempest Federation, only to such extent that Hinata is an acqutaince of Rimuru. And then, after many years, when the eastern empire begins its invasion, Rimuru would be murdered. As a result, the sealed Veldora was resurrected, and I along with the remaining others, will risk our lives to challenge the unleashed, berserked Veldora——Or so it should have been.

Right now, everything is different. So whatever happens next become more difficult to predict. However, however. There is one thing I am sure of. Hinata is still around and she gets to know Rimuru. It wouldn’t take long before I get to meet Chloe again in this way.

My prediction was right. Chloe has already visited this world, and I was able to meet her again during the opening festival25. Even though Chloe doesn’t remember me——or I should say, pretended to not know me.

24 Rimuru gets drunk in vol 9 using this knowledge. 25 Referring to the event of vol 9, opening of the tempest city 134

Although I can’t bear to wait, it can not be helped.

I really want to hug Chloe tight as soon as possible, but right now I must endure. But Compared to that, right now I should be wary of judgeement day. The future that has derailed from its original course. I couldn’t imagine a berserked Veldora from how he is being tamed by Rimuru as of now. If that’s the case, there’ll probably be disaster of a different kind to befall upon us. Then I’ll have to be cautious with my every move.

I made up my mind thinking so. I will keep my promise. And then——truly reunite with Chloe and Hinata. I’ll call Rimuru as well by that time. I thought so while looking forward to the promised musical exchange 26 with Rimuru.

I’ll defy my fate no matter what happens in the near future. Then, I’ll put an end to the lonesome days. By that time, it will be my world to reign. For instance, how about I invite Hinata and Chloe to get bathed together? I dream of such day’s arrival. I’ll put mirrors all over the bath house to surround Hinata and Chloe in every conceivable angle ( °͡ ͜ʖ °)͡ ——Muhuhuhuhu, I can barely contain myself.

Since I’ve made my resolve, it’s time to rid all the annoying burdens. Wipe out anyone, anything in my way. With such resolve, I look forward to my future paradise.

Back to catalogue

26 Referring to the event of vol 11, where the WN equivalent of hero Chloe awakening 135

The Lake Shore Dyed Scarlet Incident

There once was a small nation named Silberia27 A province state with less than ten thousand population under the rule of the Eastern Sovereign Alliance of Nasca Namrium Ulmeria Empire. It has no special industry, no special attractions. If anything, it would be its peaceful weather unique to Namrium region and a beautiful lake that lies there.

No, there’s in fact another one. That would be Siluberia’s only daughter——Princess Blanche Nam Silberia28 Praised as the crowd jewl of the kingdom. A princess loved by her people.

This is——the tragic story surrounding Princess Blanche.

◇◇◇ Blanche is a shy yet short-tempered girl. She inherited her mother’s beautiful silver white hair and her red eyes that symbolizes the Silberia royal linerage. She is a book-loving cute girl with snow-like skin who matured late. On top of that, she has magicule none can rival.

27 シルベリア 28 ブランシエ·ナム·シルベリア Special thanks to Waoweewoo for coming up with the EN name 136

She perceives things people don’t normally see as part of the physique inherited down the royal bloodline.

Even though this was how Blanche was like, there wasn’t much inconvenience with the loving care of her mother Letitia29. There’re very few people who are aware of this special ability possessed in the royal family, but thankfully everyone (within the family) knows how to deal with this type of special kids.

「Heed me now Blanche. You should never tell other people about the things only you can see.」

「But why?」

「Because you’ll only make people afraid of you that way. Besides, if those things you see discover they are being watched, monsters will appear and eat you!」

「NOOOO——!!」

「It’s alright. Mommy will protect you. So promise me now, never tell anyone about your secret. 」

「I understand, mother. I’ll never tell anyone about it.」

「Good girl. How cute you, my Blanc.」

Blanche made her promise from the bottom of her heart while staring into Letitia’s golden pupils. And so Blanche has since kept the promise to her mother. And thanks to that, no one was ever scared of her, and she was able to grow up with much care. Although she’s rather shy, her beauty is uncanny since a young age and has made her quite popular among the servants. Such is Blanche’s happy childhood, being loved by everyone.

However—— Blanche’s happy days were not for long. When Blanche reached ten years’ old, the balance of power within the concubine was toppled. Blanche’s mother, whom was the most adored first Princess, was in fact from a

29 レチイシア 137

Viscount’s family of lowly origin. And the nobles who don’t see her eye to eye has conspired to have the King marrying a second princess.

The one being selected was a woman named Emilia30 from a Marquis family. When Emilia was still a serving concubine, she has already given birth to a daughter to the king. It was for that reason she was selected as the new princess. Had it been a son, she would have been on the seat long ago.

Emilia, as a high-up noble, knows well of the intrigue and conflicts within the concubine. Emilia assumed control of the palace where Blanche and Telitia have resided in no time. Blanche’s nannies as well the maids who cared much for her were all expelled for made up reasons. No one had the odesity to defy the second princess, and the servants working within the concubine now obey not to the king, but to the second princess. And as a result, Blanche and her mother were treated poorly.

And unlike the treatment they received, Blanche’s sister——Ashla, who’s less than a year old than her, received much care as the second young princess. Everything was according to Emilia’s plan.

The king has no sibling, and the first order of heritage now belongs to Blanche. If the second princess Emilia was to coneive a prince, he’s guaranteed with the throne. Even if that fails, there’s still Ashla. And if Blanche ceases to exist, the inheritance would fall into Ashla’s hand, when she will be crowded as the next queen of Silberia.

(For that, I just have to deal with the mother and daughter in the way——)

The ambitious Emilia resorted to a far crueler sets of plans in order to raise her blood to inherent the throne.

A certain winter day. On the twelveth birthday of Blanche, her mother, the first princess passed away. The courtyard was covered in white by the snow. Blanche hid and sobbed alone in a corner no one could see. To Blanche, her father, the king, is a distant figure. And now there is no more people around her to be called a family. Blanche could only cry, feeling utter depair and sadness.

Suddenly, someone called out to the crying Blanche.

30 エミリヤ 138

「Why are you crying?」

Blanche raises her head to see the source of the voice. And she is shocked to the point of forgetting to breathe. Someone with beauty beyond humans. No, it’s a non-human existence that only Blanche can see. However, it matters not to Blanche right now whether the individual is human or not.

「How beautiful…」

Blanche opened her heart to the beauty that would drive out anyone’s sadness. She even forgot about her promise with her mother. Such is the beauty with incredible impact.

「Ho, thank you.」

Perhaps she has sensed Blanche’s sincerity. A smile emerged on her emotionless face. Quite the destructive smile if any. A beauty that drove away even the falling snows. Her long hair floats in the wind, whiter and cleaner than the snows. Her pupils are of the same red as Blanche. It’s a scarlet type of red, more vigourous than the color of blood. Her skin is beautifully white as if it’s transparent. Her dark dress conceals over her body as if it wants to hide its porty. An existence beyond human realm. Anyone would probably realize how its beauty has transcended humans’ domain even without her pair of special eyes. Such beautiful female has smiled towards Blanche.

「My mother passed away.」

「Is that so…」

「I’ve become an abandoned child. My Father too has abandoned me, he cares only for my sister Ash and left me to death」.

「It’s nothing like that.」

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「But…」

「At least, I need you.」

Those words are gospels to Blanche. It doesn’t matter what this non-human being’s intent was anymore.

「Because you can see me. Your white hair, red eyes are the same as mine. They are really pretty. And they will only grow prettier as you grow.」

「Really?」

「Indeed.」

「Big sister, do you really need me?」

「Indeed.」

Her words are truly gospels to Blanche. And she continued without stopping.

「I, really like you. And so I shall grant you any wish you desire. But I would also like you to hear my request.」

「It’s alright. If it’s a request from big sister, I would work hard to make it a reality.」

Never conform to the words of non-human. This was often her mother’s reminder. But Blanche nodded without hesitation. She has been seduced by this beautiful, kind woman; this non-human that spoke the words she needed the most. Besides, Blanche’s instinct tells her to trust the woman.

「That’s right, my good child. Then, let me tell you my request. I would wish to borrow your body. I am an existence only in spirit. So I wish to possess your body.」

The non-human being expressed her elegantly of true intent without hiding anything. This non-human, it’s one of the most terryifying existence among all monsters

140 that can’t be seen by human eyes——the Demon race. In addition, one of the rank Greater Demon——No, not only that, it is an existence which even the ancient demons, so called dominator class have to serve; The king among demons, one of the so called “Primordial”.

The “Seven Primordial” coined their names by the characters of their appearance——Colours. Unbelivebally, her colour is similar to Blanche’s name. Primordial Blanc31.

Of course, this is no coincidence. This land, Silberia, has long been her domain. And according to the ancient pact formed with the king of this land, she has adjusted for dozen centuries before a vessel of flesh used to accommodate her mind would be born. Before the birth of her ideal vessel, she would protect the land.

This was the content of the pact. And its seal of proof is the special physique of the royal family. The red eyes of Silberia Royal family was her blessing gift. She has kept to promise and protected the land. This was the real reason——why Silberia as a province state was able to retain soverinty even having been in the palm of the eastern empire.

And the body Blanc is satisfied with——is precisely the young Blanche. Primordial Blanc always keeps her promise. The ancient pact formed with the first queen of this kingdom was kept to today. When the young girl with silver white hair and red pupil is born, Primordial Blanc shall take over its body by fulfilling a wish of the girl. it is a pact passed through generations to be executed. And its effects live on. It must have been so as to grant Primordial Blanc the perfect vessel. And today it’s the day of the promised.

Twelve years of age, this was deemed in ancient times the day one mature to adulthood, and Primordial Blanc decided to talk to Blanche. She now deems Blanche as an adult capable of making her own decision, capable of negotiating with others on equal ground. This is also invoked from the ancient pact.

If by most Demons’ personality, they would likely make pacts that cleverly deceive others in order to benefit themselves more. Yet for someone as Primordial Blanc, there is no need for such trickery. She thinks those would only dishonor the pact.

31 Blanc - French for White 141

Only through fulfilling the pact loyally, the flesh vessel would righteously be Primordial Blanc’s asset.

It is for that, she will fulfill any wish made by Blanche with all her power. And she would not have given up even if Blanche rejects her.

Human is a creature driven by endless unfulfiled desire, and there will always be a day they wish for something. She only has to be patient and wait until the day. That is why she was surprised by Blanche’s answer.

「Would you…like to be my friend?」

「——Ayy?」

「I’ll give my body to big sister. Then please be my friend! W-will you not?」

Primordial Blanc does not know how to respond. This is a first for her even throughout the many eons she has lived. In front of Blanche’s eyes is still that beautiful face, yet her heart has been greatly troubled by what just transpired.

(Did she just say she wants to be friend with me? Okay now what am I supposed to do… This is not funny even as someone’s bad joke on dying bed. Plus, this is supposed to some damning raving, yet I don’t really feel pissed about it…… And it seems quite interesting in fact, that girl as well. This girl in front of me may make allow me to have some fun. I could spare some time with her since human lives are cheap anyway.)

Although it’s rather subtle, Primordial Blanc gave out a rare look of confusion. But she reached to a conclusion in her heart quickly.

「Very well. From now on, you and I shall be friends.」

Hearing this, Blanche’s whole face blushes. Her crying face lit up to a big smile.

「Ehehe, I’m so happy! Please take care of me in the future, big sister!」

「Hmm, I will now possess on your body. Let us have a good time together.」

Then, Primordial Blanc possessed onto Blanche’s body.

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On this day, the fate Silberia kingdom fell on the young Blanche, yet no one would ever find about it.

◇◇◇ (D: From here onward I will be referring Primordial white as Blanc)

Blanche grew to fifteen.

Although Blanche still gets cold shoulder within the concubine, still a dark and cold place for her, as soon as she exits the concubine, the whole palace’s view on Blanche has been improving by yje day.

「Princess Blanche is such a genius. Her elegant actions and attitudes are perfect no matter how you see it.」

「 She’s well versed in History, art and mathematics. And even geography, sociology. The amount of knowledge she possesses is commendable.」

「More importantly, her theory of magic is fantastic! Her analysis of spells does not have a single unnecessary line and she’s able to improve her magical efficiency through simplification of spell. This is the level of talents beyond genius, what an outstanding princess!」

The Royal tutors appointed by the king coplement her unsparingly. And the one who is most frustrated by this is her sister, princess Ashla As they walk by each other on the hallway, Ashla began to pick on Blanche.

「My, my, isn’t this my sister dear. Greetings to you. Have you been studying hard today as well? Although that’s important, you’ll be disliked if you don’t go kiss Duke Grunce’s32 son lord Guinias’ ass properly, you know?.」

Family of Duke Grunce, the famous royal family known since ancient time as the maintainer of Namrium. A noble family powerful even within the eastern empire. Grunce’s domain alone holds a population of three hundred thousand. The heir to such nobility from the empire started to stay around Silberia kingdom

32 ガリアス 143 since a year ago.

Guinias Nam Grunce.33 Age ttwenty-two, a talented young man in many fields. Guinias has an elder brother who’s been appointed as the next Duke. Because of that, it is rumored that Guinias has now targeted the throne of Silberia kingdom.

This is a “secret” known by many, but most people within Silberia supports such an attempt. There are many reasons for it, the most appropriate one would be to maintain friendly relation with the the empire. If the big shot royalty become the king of Silberia, they expect less pressure exerted on this province state.

Besides that it’s another reason. Guinias has imported a variety of goods with his connections through Grunce to Silberia. He has won the favour of all the royalty within the kingdom with everyone of the extremely attractive goods imported. These imports are also highly profitable within the kingdom that they’ve improved the citizens’ well-being. And for that reason support for Guinias within the kingdom rises sky-high without any sign of slowing down. As such, Guinias has quite the popularity is quite high.

Guinias is still young and handsome, he has already brought great wealth to the nation, so it would be fitting even if he is to become son-in-law of the queen—— These are the thoughts of many within the nation. And the one Guinias has laid his eyes one is Princess Blanche, who has hid something from everyone. King Silberia is also aware of the significance of the marriage, “If I was to help Blanche become the next queen, I would agree to the marriage.” Guinias also made the promise recently.

This means, to make Blanche the next queen. And Ashla couldn’t stand the idea alone that Blanche would be crowded, such reverse in her situation cannot be tolarted. Besides, her mother Emilia has also been outraged by this. She has utilized many tactics and invested much time and effort throughout the years to help her daughter to become the next queen. Yet all of these have been ruined by the appearance of Guinias. Even the nobles under Emilia’s circle has begun to flatter towrds Guinias. If this is to continue, they would be handing out the Queen’s throne to Blanache.

But as long as she can change Guinias’s heart, there will always be ways. Emilia says so to Ashla in order to win Lord Guinias’s heart.

33 ギイニアス·ナム·ガリアス 144

Ashla has made up her mind already even if her mother remains silent. Ashla has resorted to many ways to jeopardize her sister’s relationship with Guinias in order to win him as fiancé. This act is also part of her scheme, but Blanche doesn’t really mind it.

「Oh, Ash. Good health to you. I’m glad you are concerned for me. But, it’s really nothing. I would be accompanying Guinias-sama to inspect the city later.」

「……Is that so. You make me Jealous. Very well, I hope you have a pleasant time.」

「Hmm. It’s work after all, one should not indulge their desire for pleasure.」

Like that, she was able to trash Ashla’s effort in provoking her. Blanche is hardly a young child anymore. She’s been working hard behind everyone’s back to gain knowledge and power. Nowadays, even those servents can’t openly harass her, instead they had to find other subtler ways to do so. It’s the same for Ashla, who can only attempt to provoke her through sarcasm. And for that reason her hatred for Blanche intensifies day by day. Yet Blanche seems to have remained unchanged even knowing so.

If anything, Blanche seems no longer alone.

「Yes, that’s the way to go. Treat everyone around you as an enemy. However, there’s no need to defeat them all. You need only to differentiate those who can and cannot be manipulated. Hold on to their secrets to force them into serving you. Your sister is but a pawn used by that mother named Emilia. Neither it’s she useful nor a threat to your presence.」

「I understand, big sis.」

She now has a reliable friend named Blanc. This is why Blanche has become strong. Her knowledge and magic were all taught by Blanc. Blanche accepted and learnt them humbly and grew drastically in the past three years.

「Huh! Then be cuatious when you do have some fun.」

「I will, you do that too Ash.」

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The two princesses appear to coexist in harmony, yet the hostility within their hearts towards each other burns like wild fire, thankfully such conflict is resolved before any escalation.

Just like that, Blanche grows day by day with more and more supporters. She’s also been doing quite well with Guinias. From some point, they became the ideal pair of love by everyone. This led to even more people trying to stay on the good side of Guinias. The Royals still observing the situation also started to step forward in recognizing Blanche as the next Queen in line.

During this period, Emilia’s intervention worsened with much ferocity. She hardly cares about decency anymore and resorted to pure violence, organized attempts of assassination on Blanche. However, everyone of which failed. That is to be expected. Blanc who’s possessed within Blanche wouldn’t let mere hitmen harm Blanche.

All is smooth sailing. With this development, Blanche is guaranteed to be the new queen. The citizens also feel the increasingly beautiful Blanche is worthy of being their queen. Blanche now is also capable of showing a delightful smile to people other than Blnac. That is her sign for having bonded with others and what Blanc expects from her.

But, there’s still part which she’s unsatisfied. That would be Blanche’s relationship with Guinias.

(……this is a real headache. “Romance” is an emotion that provides too much uncertainty, it does no good whatsoever. If Blanche’s emotion is to be significantly affected, then I’ll have to confront whatever comes next. God damn Hum——)

But, if Blanche could be happy, Blanc won’t really mind. Even if her partner is a stupid human, she would send them her blessing truthfully. That is only natural as thoughts of Blanche’s friend.

However—— Blanc has a very bad feeling towards Guinias.

To put aside the incamation and rebirth to this world, right now Blanc is in an incomplete state. Even her subordinates are only of spiritual existence and have limited impact on the physical world. Even if that’s the case, Blanc would try her best to strategize accordingly.

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What Blanc would learn later is that her unease would manifest in reality.

◇◇◇

「——That’s the end of the report.」

After receiving reports from the subordinate, Blanc felt a horrible feeling about the situation She has released many demons to collect information in Silberia’s capital, every towns as well as in Grunce’s territory. These, however, revealed some significant issues.

(Even though I’ve always been on high alert with that man, I couldn’t have expected his comprehensive defense against demons. In other words, he has come to this kingdom aware of the existence of demons.)

The information collection has returned no result ever since Blanche began hanging out with Guinias. Moreover, no useful information at all was collected since, that’s why Blanc has begun to suspect him. It’s too suspicious that no useful one was ever collected.

And so she increased the range of the search while dispatching her top lieutenents. As a result, she begins to realize Guinias’s real intention. ——Guinias knows the connection between Silberia and Blanc. And from that, she decided to intervene knowing the connection.

——Silver white hair and red pupils. One who possesses both would be the key to the coming of the ancient demon——

This is not easy feat to investigate. But if it’s done by the hands of Big-shot royalty in the empire, their way of extracting the truth makes such conclusion believable. If that’s the case, his relationship with Blanche was all an act too——

「If that’s the case…. Unforgivable, absolutely——」

Blanc tightens her face as she looks up at the sky covered by dark clouds. As opposed to the road to her second coming, which she has been planned for eons to be cut off, now—— Right now she’s simply worried about a friend’s happiness being lost.

A melancholic sigh came out of Blanc’s beautiful thin lips.

147

◇◇◇ Guinias has quite the popularity in the capital of Silberia. There are several reasons to explain why, but the most prevailing one is the production of real profits.

To make this, He’s even considered exploring the mines containing Magicule ores as a new industry. In fact, Silberia kingdom possesses a high concentration of Magicule, as such the ores collected from the mine is also of high quality. And they get a high price tag within Duke Grunce’s territory.

Before his arrival, Silberia is a nation sustained through primary industry such as agriculture, farming and fishing. Citizens are mostly care-free people that led a self-sustained, simple lifestyle.

But now, the seeds of profiteering industries are planted. Alongside were a number of entertainment industry. One of the most popular attraction is the gambling performance of horse racing. Given it’s gambling with money involved, those who turned rich overnight through it became obessed with it.

The kind and simple citizens are slowly twisted bit by bit. There are now people who are having difficulties financially, but Guinias lend them his money with a smile. Because of his generosity, his support increases exponentially.

Guinias has also done his preparations in every field other than having a populist foundation.

He gradually expands his influence with the acceptance of newly arrived Royalty trying to befriend him. He spreads out wealth to the maximu degree in the name Grunce, the largest noble family in the empire, and then subsequently recycle the money back into his pocket. His actions all reflect his immense talents.

Everything is according to Keikaku. Guinias laughs coldly.

「This is quite boring to be honest. There’s no fun now that everything is perfectly according to my plan.」

「Hahaha, Guinias-sama. Please don’t say so. This type of remote countryside 148 nowhere will go nuts over some pitiful fun. It really can’t be helped.」

The one complimenting Guinias is one of his aide from the home country. To the public he’s nothing more than a minister-type butler who helps Guinias with random chores given his status.

「Huh! Even so, I still couldn’t get my way with the key personel Blanche. Can’t that woman just accept me already? She always responds to me with some nonsense about keeping her chastity before marriage.」

「Well, She’s after all a princess of a nation. So it’s understandable.」

「Everything has been all going exactly how I wished except this woman. This just makes me more irritated.」

Guinias complained. This is his nature, beneath his façade as a noble heir.

「Okay, okay Guinias-sama. You don’t have to keep that unpleasant look. You don’t have to endure for long.」

The one responding to him now, a stunt and cruel looking man is another trusted subordinate of Guinias, who’s in charge of his fiancne. He was promised the role of the appointed merchant in the land of Duke Grunce when Guinias becomes a duke. For that reason, he only needs to serve Guinias by investing and spreading money as much as Guinias desires.

「Ho? Has the preparation been finished?」

「Yes. We’ve done negotiating the Military and got permission to secretly moblize the Armored Corps. I spent a lot of money buying the gifts for Calgurio34, but we should be able to assemble sufficient manpower within the estimated time.」

「Hahaha, that’s impressive. At last our plan is at its final stage. My days as a duke

34 Commander of the Armored Corps in Eastern Empire 149 is imminent. I am looking forward to it.」

Guinias fantasize about the near future and a dispeicable grin emerged on face.

Their plan is as the following. Guinias pretends to marry into the royal family and be engaged with Blanche, who’s in first order of inheriting the throne. But in reality, Guinias is not satisfied with simply being the king of Silberia. His dream is to become the duke of Grunce.

His brother has become an eyesore as of now, but that has already been dealt with. If he is to rebel, Guinias has already considered diposing of him. But his brother is aware of the nature of his younger brother. Knowing their difference in ability, he has already assumed a position under Guinias’s military. He could be confirmed as a duke in the future. But why would Guinias visit Silberia kingdom in the first place…

「So, Guinias-sama, would Blanche be willing to leave with us as planned?」

「Huh. We haven’t slept, but that woman has already fell for me. I don’t think she will refuse but just in case I’ve tipped the military.」

「I see. If possible, we should avoid uusing violence. For some reason, I could sense the abruption of an unnatural force if we were to invade this land with military.」

「Our party agrees to that as well, let’s try to avoid war. Guinias-dono, it will really be problematic if this land fell to warfare. If that is to be the case, I would need to reevalute my relationship with you. To me, it would truly be a shame to not be able to maintain our partnership. But I would still want to get on the good side of my granddaughter who is going tobe crowned soon. If Grunce Duke’s household is to forge an alliance with us, us members of the Silberia kingdom could live long and prosper as well.」

The one who’s pandering is Emilia’s father, Marquis Barnes35. Barnes had collected intels himself prior to her violent daughter assumed violent actions. And through his instinct as a nobleman, he realizes that Guinias’s end- goal was never the throne of this kingdom.

35 バンス 150

Barnes then took a gamble in order to make her granddaughter the queen. He approached Guinias and got the answer of his true intent.

In the end, Barnes was accepted by Guinias and thus expressed his true thoughts. Guinias wants to bring Blanche to his home country, and Barnes sees Blanche as a burden, best to evict from Silberia kingdom. With mutual goal, they decided to form an alliance. And it is for that reason, Barnes whole heartedly wish to avoid any conflict with the empire.

「Then, Marquis Barnes, would you be able to keep this country’s royalty under control?」

「Of course. Even if the King or Princess Blanche herself opposes, most of the nobles are on Guinias-sama’s side.」

Barnes carefully responds to the young and not-yet-Duke Guinias. This is, indeed, a reflection of the overwhelming difference in power between big and small nation. Barnes has to force a smile for his granddaughter as well as his own authority even if he doesn’t want to. Although Guinias has already seen through Barnes’s act, he kept on smiling as if nothing has happened.

「Very well, then when shall we execute the plan?」

To Guinias who wishes to return home as soon as possible, the sooner it is executed the better. However, he has endured for so long and planned cautiously his every step. So it would be unwise to rush and mess up in the end. In order to ensure the success of the plan, the date of execution is extremely vital.

「Let’s see…」

「 It would only take a few days to surround the area completely with the formation of the army.」

「Next festival of sacrifice at the palace, which happens to be princess Blanche’s sixteenth birthday. In our country, one officially enters adulthood upon their

151 sixteen of age, it would be an appropriate time to make a proposal. Besides, most of the royalty would gather on that day, wouldn’t that just be the best timing?」

「Huhuhu, as expected of Marquis Barnes. When did you find out that I’ve planned on that day from the start?」

「Hahaha, it’s just a coincidence.」

「Very well, we’ll settle for a coincidence. Then our plan shall be executed on the next day of sacrifice. Any disagreement?」

「No!」

「Understood.」

「As you wish.」

With the approval of the other three men, the day of battle has been settled. Now that Barnes has left in advance, there only remain men from the empire.

「Speaking of whom, what an idiotic man. But he’s clever you know, even as a noble he’s good at his stuff.」

「As you’ve said, he just let go of this national treasure princess Blanche. Not knowing that whoever inherits as the next queen would be meaningless.」

「The bloody red pupil is a sign of curse. That silver whit hair surely makes people think of that horrifying and damning “Primordial”. I’m impressed that with all these characteristics matching the idiot nobles in this country still hasn’t noticed a thing.」

「The empire has been pushing behind the scene to make them realize too. To prevent that demon from arriving to this world.」

Guinias says so with a calm and focused expression.

152

The demon on this land is truly an eyesore to the empire. There are mainly three types of demon who intrude into human world. Demons who can be negoatiated with, demons who won’t listen to reasoning and demons who do whatever they wish.36

The demons from this Silberia kingdom are known for their willingness to negotiate with others.

Yet White Queen (Blanc) was really something else. There’s no way one could sit and negotiate with her on equal term. However, the one who broke that common sense was the first ancient king of Silberia kingdom.

「Even though it traces back to 3000 years ago, it’s no simple matter to keep the correct historical narrtiave around. But this is just irresponsible on their part for not caring their own national emergency.」

Early kings of Silberia made a deal with the master of many demons, Primordial Blanc. Its content being to facilitate the coming of Blanc to this realm, and in return, she will be the guardian of Silberia kingdom. The seal of approval for the pact, it’s the “Crimson Eyes” that can see through anything, a power only possessed by the king’s linerage. To inherit from a cursed bloodline and build up magicule through generations. And then, when the heir with the ideal flesh for the Primordial appears, it will possess it and comeforth to this world once more.

The empire has exhausted its means of espionage to explore the content of this secret pact. They have long been preparing in order to be ahead of the demons.

「So, Guinias-sama. What would you do with princess Blanche? Are you really going to marry her?」

「Don’t be stupid. Even if I decide to play around with her for a couple of years, I would get in serious trouble if she gets pregenent. Before that would happen, she will just have to die.」

「That’s reassuring to hear. If it was me, I wouldn’t want to have that type of

36 FYI: Negotiable – Testa, Rain, Misery; Non-negotiable – Guy, Carrera; Do whatever they want – Diablo, Ultima 153 woman with demonic chracters as my master.」

「Hahaha, it’s a shame really. But we have to destory the bloodline thoroughly.」

「Of course I understand that. As soon as we end the king’s linerage, even the Primordial won’t be able to do anything. And unlike that Crimson Demon Lord, the White Queen is a picky one. We were much assisted thanks to that…」

「Regardless, we should be able to cut off the Royal bloodline completely.」

「Then, about princess Ashla——?」

「I wouldn’t ask that, it’s for your own good.」

「Hahaha, sorry for the intrusion. But I haevn’t asked anything yet.」

「You shouldn’t have spoken of it in the first place.」

Then, they continued their plotting. Without noticing a small bug has secrectly concealed itself on the corner of the window……

◇◇◇ Sixteenth Birthday of Blanche. It would be the day of the “Lake Shore Dyed in Scarlet incident”——

Blanche is regretting. She has already heard of Blanc’s advice, yet she smiled and say it’s fine, and failed to assess her circumstance.

「You will go with me right, Blanche?」

「But, Guinias-sama, I must follow my father’s will. Just a little bit more would do, it is my duty to improve this country. Haven’t you also sworn to support me behind my back?」

「I hope you reconsider Blanche. I too approve of your devotion for this kingdom. When you arrive at my country, we will continue assit you in contributing to the Silberia kingdom in terms of economic and cultural exchange. There will be

154 countless things we can do. I’ll also respect your decisions. What do you think then?」

「But……」

Blanche’s head since yesterday has been filled with the ideas that Guinias would support her to become queen one day. Guinias would always go tell those nobles supporting her that the seat of Queen is for Blanche only. In the ancient past, Blanc gave a helping hand to the people suffering poverty here with a deal. In order to fulfill the promise with Blanc, this country needs to bear a real queen. At last, this country has gained what it needed——she believed this would also be what everyone had hoped for.

Blanche is confused. Guinias’s proposal is to bring Blanche to the empire, and that’s something unacceptable to her. Yet Guinias has not mentioned about it until now. The turmoil of a situation now would even be reasonable to cause chaos for Blanc. Moreover, all the Nobles present at the gathering approved of Guinias’ proposal. This is also a great betrayal towards Blanche.

(How can this be… I thought I am the one everyone needed?)

Such sudden change has put a layer of despair on Blanche’s heart.

「No! I will not allow you to bring Blanche abroad!!」

Suddenly, Blanche’s father——the king shouted. The King who worked his heart and soul for the country all his life, who is always calm and quiet, now stares at Guinias with burning rage in his eyes.

「You bastard, have you been plotting to take Blanche abroad from the start? Your actions have would be dishonering the empire.」

「My, what are you talking about. Such ordeal is nothing but beneficial for both kingdoms.」

「Absurdity! Th-this country since ancient time has been——」 155

「I can’t believe that your higness would still believe those stale superstitions, if that’s really the case, you’ll be a laughing stock before your guests.」

Guinias questions back with a jestering tone, as if he’s trying to provoke and mock the king. The nobles also start to laugh along him. These nobles who seemingly are on the King’s side have long committed trachery. Guinias has prepared all for this as well, just for this day. This is no longer a celebration of Blanche’s sixteenth birthday.

「Y-you bastard… sabotaged my country’s politics…」

「Your highness, you are too nice of a person. Did you really belive that those around you will never betray you, and that the people of this country are bonded so close as if they are bonded by hands and feet? I’m sorry to inform you that these are all mere fantasies. Us humans will resort to anything for the sake of our own interests. If we get to keep our life, money and a bright future safe and secured in our pocket, we wouldn’t even flinch to betray our nation.」

「Don’t try to fool us! I’ll give you that now that I’ve seen traitor like you. But the people of my country are earnest in wishing for Blanche to become queen.」

「Aiya, I’m rather skeptical about that. Your highness, I suggest you understand your circumstance better. I would be rather worried in the future if my father in law keeps on acting this way.」

「WHAT!?」

「I’ll give you three days’ time. Before the deadline, please hand over Princess

Blanche.」

「Wait! Did you honestly think I would——」

「Your highness, you should just agree to Guinias-dono’s proporsal. Should we let

Princess Blanche married to Guinias-dono, our connection with the empire would certainly become closer. If you truly want someone to be the queen, my granddaughter is still around.」

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「That’s right, father. If you choose me, I’ll definitely be a better queen than my sister.」

Marquis Barnes interrupets, followed by Princess Ashla. Their voices overtook that of King’s. These are supposed to be vile acts punishable by the highest degree without forgiveness. Yet, no noble decides to stop them. Even the minority who still holds a sense of conscience are forced silent under the intense stares of the Royalties supporting the Barnes family.

The King has realized the reality of his circumstance, his face started to twist out of regrets. Facing the King at such dismay, Guinias calmly states like a victor,

「About what we just discussed, about what the people truly want——you should know the answer with tomorrow’s morning paper. You might as well read it before you answer anything. Please do think over what the right decision for this nation is truly. I shall await your response.」

Guinias has done his part. He now leaves the distressed and isolated king with these words.

Guinias left the venue for celebration, followed by the nobles who gradually existed as if they are purusing him. The ones remained in the venue were the King, Blanche and a few remaining nobles.

「How can this…. Are those people ignorant of our situation? 」

「If-if this is to continue, our kingdom will be destroyed…..」

The King and the royals who sigh as such are just a bunch of lost souls to whoever’s point of view——

The morning next day. In the most seured hidden chamber within the King’s castle, those who remained at the celebration venue gathered. In front of them are the morning newspaper published by the country. Its content distresses everyone present. The cover page of the morning paper is filled with titles of celebration.

——The Great Royalty Guisias has come to marry Princess Blanche. Such it’s the

157 same as engagement, surely she will become his wife and forge a proper marriage——

So the newspaper writes.

「It’s all over. My holy goddess, such it’s an unforgivable betrayal——」

「King collapsed on his chair saying so!」

「Father!」

「I’m sorry Blanche. If only had I told you——forgive me.」

「No-no, there’s no such thing! Father has done nothing wrong. It is I who’s been too immarture.」

「What are you talking about. You may be sixteen now, but you are still a child.

You are still so young, yet such hardship…」

「That’s absurd! It is I who fell for Guisias-sama——」

「Enough…that’s enough. We should think about what to do in the near future instead.」

Everyone present begins to express their views with that line leading. The Prime Minister speaks first.

「The people seem also convinced about the content of the paper. There’s no doubt to them that Princess-sama are getting married. They all feel like that the country has developed to become affluent, and their blind confidence has numbed their ability to doubt.」

The court mage commander says,

「Your highness, from last night’s investigation, our country has been surrounded by Empire military. Since they’ve convinced our people, they can even make up with reasons to start a war at this point. The justified side… would probably be the

158 empire.」

The Army Chief says

「Allow me to be blunt here, we won’t stand a chance with the current strength of our army. Moreoverm there may be soldiers in favour of the empire within the army and announce before battle that we’ve surroundered.」

The situation is desperate. But they can’t just obey the empire like a dog.

「We will not bow to the empire. Had we done such a thing, we would be betraying our ancient pact. There will be travesties far, far more tragic and horrifying than being destroyed by the empire.」

「Indeed, my king! Our god is a terryfing existence. If we were to disvow our promise, we will be warranted punishment worse than death.」

「I can’t believe that the number of nobles who have forgotten about this has increased to this magnitude. How pathetic.」

「We shall fight even if there is to no avail. Perhaps god will show mecy with our sincerity.」

Kingdom of Silberia, Kingdom bonded by an ancient pact. If they are to disvow the deal with God——with the demon, what awaits ahead would be tourments far more terrifying than the demise of their flesh. It is because they know this all too well that they cannot succum to the Empire’s demands. Even if, the country is destroyed……

「How about, w-we summon our god… our god. Then, we shall unite and face our demise.」

159

Court Magician Commander said calmly. Everyone noded. There may still be time before the final verdict——

Blanche couldn’t hear what her father and the rest are saying, only despair and sadness burst into her heart.

「This is all my fault… it’s all because I didn’t listen to Blanc’s advice…」

「No, Blanche. It is because my strength has yet been fully developed. So you shouldn’t feel bad about it.」

「No, that’s no true! Maybe It’s because… because I wished to be your friend.」

「Calm down Blanche——」

「I’m sorry Blanc. I’m not needed by anyone after all. Whether it is Guisian-sama or the people of this country.」

「I-I need you…」

「Thank you. Truly, thank you for everything you’ve done, Blanc——」

「Blanche, what are you——」

This may be the first time Blanc has panicked since her birth.

「Is it because of my promise with you that Blanc’s power has been limited right?

I truly thank you for keeping your end of the bargain with this country.」

「Stop it, Blanche! This is just a pact. I don’t care anymore. To me, what’s important is——」

「Thank you, and I apologize. I’m not as strong as you. But I’m still happy about one point. You are willing to use my body, for that I am satisfied. So Blanc, live your life freely from now on——」

160

Then, Blanche’s “soul” executed the pact. Based on the pact, Blanche would transfer her body to Blanc. Blanche’s shining, colourful soul, falls into Blanc’s hand.

「Ah…ah… Blanche, so gentle and kind… my Blanche. I love you, I love you the most. My first ever freind. I couldn’t protect that gentle and kind you, how powerless am I——」

Primordial White——Queen of Demons, symbol of power, now trembles and sigh at her powerlessness. Perhaps this is a sight that no one who knows her would ever believe. There is no audience, yet this is the reality.

Blanc obtained Blanche’s flesh without the King’s witness.

◇◇◇ The Court mage commander responded first among the group discussing the plans for the future.

「God, I’ve heard the voice of god——!?」

He shouted and extends both of his hands to the Blanche sitting quietly alone. Then he pours all of his magic into a magical circle on the ground, initiating the ritual to summon the demon.

「W-what are you doin——」

What came next was faster than the sentence the king couldn’t finish.

「Greetings Gentlemen.」

Blanche stood up. No. This is no longer Blanche. This is Blanc in the body of Blanche.

Everyone present knows exactly what’s going one and fall to their knees on the spot. Among them, only the king remained standing and asked.

161

「G-God! Why… now? Your pact with Blanche should still…」

「Unfortunately this pact has just been invoked.」

「No, this can’t be possible! My daughter, Blanche told me so that you’ll protect her——!!」

「You’re are…rather noisy, please quite down.」

Blanc’s words shut the King up. But he couldn’t hide his anger thinking that Blanc’s breaking of the pact. However—— The king’s anger is dispered in front of an immense, bottomless fury. The source of which, without stating——belongs to Blanc.

「It is because of you stupid humans that took away my pleasure. Don’t you all agree this is a grave crime to be punished for?」

The King freezes out of fear. Only the King senses Blanc’s fury.

「I-If God wishes so——」

Even if that answer was just one line, it exhausted him completely. Then, the exhausted king crumbled back to his chair.

「Good boy. Since you’ve kept true to your pact with me, I shall grant you all a painless death, however——」

What about those who broke the promise? No one dares to ask about their consequences. Then——

Everyone present there was blessed. They now walk the path under their God’s command with their hearts in harmony, to be relieved from ever learning the tragedy that is about to take place.

162

「Very well, let us feast.」

As Blanc commands, the demons quickly possess all the bodies at the scene. The tragedy now unveils——

Blanc, clouded by fury, cast out the forbidden magic. A spell to grant peaceful death to those who kept true to the pact and bestow endless torment to the traitors. It causes one to bleed oneself inside out, and to only be able to lock the demise of this nation into their eyes. The effect of this curse covers her entire domain, meaning no living being can escape from this spell. But this is hardly enough to restrain Blanc’s rage.

「Bring those idiots in front of me.」

Blanc right now, will not listen to any suggestion from her subrodinates. Even if it’s her ancient trusted aide——Demon Dukes, will be sent to guiliotine if they are to get on her bad side now.

「「「 Understood!」」」

The demons spread out to all over the place leaving only one line. And soon after a few minutes they return.

「Who do you think I am! Show yourself now!」

The first, arrogant, non-sense spitting fool has been brought before her.

「Oh, Marquis Barnes, so you are the first.」

「A-are you Blanche?! Why are you sitting on that chiar!? That belongs to his majesity alone, that is the majestic throne.」

「You are really noisy, you know? That’s some annoying barking coming from a petit nobody.」

「W-what did you say? How dare you say that to me, you-you are just a little girl—

163

—ah….!?」

Barnes, who’s only been bluffing, looked into Blanc’s eyes and felt as though ice cold water was poured onto his heart. The sipping coldness climbs up his shoulder. And so he decided to calm down and observe his surrounding. He stands at where all the losers are supposed to be at yet there is not a single person here. The figures of losers who can only sigh at their defeat by the scheme of Guisias The only person in front of him is Blanc.

「 Blanche…is no more. Try to use your remaining few brain cells to try to understand me now.」

Only hearing that did Barnes begin to notice how strange Blanc looks. Blanche has always been a pretty girl, but the one in front of him cannot be simply be described as beautiful. Her hair whiter than snow decorates the crown whilst she stares down and despises Barnes with her crimson red eyes. The gaps between her dark dresses vaguely flashes her white smooth skin. It’s seductive yet before it drives one to lust, it shows them fear.

It’s the type of beauty out of human’s comprehension. Noticing that, Barnes become speechless having gussed her true identity.

「C-Could it be…」

「Settle down, now. Soon I’ll invite your family and friends here too, let us have a celebration.」

Marquis Barnes has no right to refuse. Before he could say anything, he was restricted in front of the throne. Then, another few minutes pass.

「Slow down now! Who do you think I am!!」

A woman shouts out some similar words like Barnes’.

「What are you doing! Are you knowingly offending the next queen!?」

164

This silly young girl displays an arrogant attitude without even knowing what she has got herself into. She was brought in front of Blanc.

「I guess it runs in the genes. Perhaps you all can reflect a bit if this girl bleeds a little.」

Even if she’s the new king to have inherited the blood, she holds no significance to Blanc now. Seemingly forgotten about that, she looks over the two who have been brought in front of her.

「Blanche… what are you doing here!」

「Sister, please understand you circumstance. Wife of the empire famous royalty is just a empty title. Do you understand that you are just a lamb waiting to be slaughtered without anyone to back you up?」

People who don’t understand their circumstance tries to argue against Blanc. But that foolishness has been devoured by blaze as soon as Blanc’s eyes focus on her.

「I-I fee-feel Horrible! Ca-can’t brea——!」

「KYAA——! I-it burns! MY FACE, MY SKIN ARE BURNING——!」

「What an unpleasant sight. I’ll not let you all off the hook that easily for bullying my friend for all these times.」

Hearing that cold and emotionless voice, Emilia and Ashla realize the one in front them is not Blanche. But they’ve understood too late. But, even if they understand any earlier, Blanc would not have forgiven them anyway.

「You two should wait here for our final guest to show up.」

Blanc says so without even looking at the women who are showing their worst sides. The last one, the man with the most sins. Only the hatred towards him burns

165 quietly deep-down Blanc’s eyes.

◇◇◇ Guisias is satisfied with how everything went according to his wishes and spent the day time drinking himself away joyfully. Thanks to teleportation magic, his body is not so tired even having travelled to such remote nation. Or rather he’s quite energetic, having fully submerged in the joy of victory from last night.

「Our mission was a success. Now all there’s left is to get Princess Blanche here.」

「If we are rejected, we’ll just have to force her away with the military.」

「Hmm, the people’s on our side as well. But you’ve got to make it clear to the military to avoid damaging the surrounding.」

「Of course. This land soon will be in Guisias-sama’s pocket. So be cautious not to harm any civilian.」

「I’ll let you handle that.」

Guisias laughs in a good mood. But Guisias’ joyful moment was suddenly interrupted by some intruders.

「You’ve been summoned by our queen, please comeforth with us.」

「Resistance is futile, we’ve already eliminated anyone in our way.」

The two who showed up are the embodiments of inhuman strength.

「What the hell are the guards doing!?」

But even though he started shouting like that, no one came to his room. The smaller one of the two mockingly smirked at the panicked Guisias and said.

「Didn’t I say we’ve taken care of the ones that look like they’ll get in our way.」

166

The innocent voice delivered a vicious line. This made Guisias’ aides realize these two are no ordinary beings.

「Then, let’s go.」

「That’s right, farewell then, bye-bye! 」

The two only took Guisias away as they loyally carried out their master’s order. The people remained begin to panick and shout.

「Those are demons. DEMONS have come to stop us!」

「Go inform the military! Guisias-sama has been kidnapped!」

「Th-that’s is probably——」

The message is soon relayed to the military camp. Guisias-sama is kidnapped despite having a highly secured premise. There were two criminals. Their true identities are likely——Greater Demon General. These unprecedented reports have plunged the military base into armagenda. What immediately came next. The operation has been urgently revised to demon hunting.

On the other side, Guisias has been unwilling taken by demons into the air.

At first Guisias is still resisting. The young nobleman has combat skill equivalent of level B adventurer and it’s known for his excellence in both brass and brain. In fact, having reached level B, one could at least become a leutenent officer within the army. This is quite the talent in others’ eyes. Because of that, Guisias has been rather naïve in thinking he would be able to beat a demon or two.

But his thoughts were easily turned around. These two demons were able to rush in and kidnap Guisias from the military base filled with well prepared soldiers and a strictly secured perimetet. From that point alone one could imagine their iincredible strength.

「You bastards, what are you going to do to me?」

「Look below you.」

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Guisias looks down and witnesses sceneries straight from hell. Their face torn, twisted with agony, blood flowing out of their body without stopping. They crawl in pain——men, men and men. Every organized street is tainted with blood, while fresh flowing blood gets pumped into the lake. It’s dying the lake scarlet red.

「——WHAT!?」

Guisias is speechless at the sight, but he soon regained clarity and shouts.

「You damn demons! You bastards, you should never have exsited in this world!

The people living on this land have signed a contract with your master. But you… how dare you just sacrifice them like this!?」

Hearing so, the small demon shakes its head.

「That’s not the case. It’s all because of your action.」

「Caused by my action?」

「Yeah. You. You taught them to be like this right. It wss you who seduced and betrayed our master’s ally Blanche-sama and attempted to exile her from the country」.

「T-that’s…」

「We don’t want traitors, nor do we want collaborators who fail to prevent the betrayal. They both carry the same amount of sin.」

「Wait a moment! What about children? Shouldn’t there also be innocent infants?

Are you all just gonna kill them all!?」

「So what?」

「How could you act so justified?」

「Didn’t I just said that your sins are the same? But our master has shown mercy 168 this time. She even granted those without sins a painless death.」

「That was really surprising. If it’s like before, there’s no way it would happen. I suppose it’s all thanks to Blanche-sama. That Blanche-sama also died because of you. So all of these tragedies have been caused by you, look below you and have its sights burnt in your heart.」

Guisias feels confused being told so. In Guisias’ core, he is not a man of pure evil. He’s contracted all the selfish traits of a royal, and he believes himself that there will be no noble without people. First improve citizens’ standard of living, entrap their support through entertainment, then milk them back through taxation and their labors. Because of his previous believes as such, he’s heart begins to shake upon seeing so many people being slaughtered in front of him

(I-I’ve done nothing wrong. I’m not wrong!)

He tells himself that, trying to maintain calmness. But then, he could no longer keep his cool after hearing the next line coming out of the demon.

「It’s indeed sad that the reisdents are involved as well. But rest reassured that you are the one who caused all of these, you ain’t gonna be let off the hook with just this much suffering. So don’t lose your nerve just yet, brace yourself now for what’s coming next.」

Guisias has realized his reality. That horrifying reality has crawled in front of him.

「No-no. Someone saves me, please let me go!」

「Sorry but we can’t help you with that. We’ll get killed if we do something like that.」

The small demon frowns and answer while the other one also agrees. Then, Guisias was dragged in front of the queen. His ego shattered along with his inner self. Guisias seems powerless already.

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「Ara ara, what happened to prince charm. Gonna cry? Gonna piss your pants? maybe? Maybe shit and cum?」

(D: Well then you fucking normie, maybe you should click the footnote here37 to see what she actually said)

「Somone saves me, I’m begging you, please spare me.」

Guisias begs while sobbing like a bitch. Hearing this, Blanc’s laughing with more joy. But the fire of hatred in her eyes are only burning brighter and brighter.

「Baka, why would I spare ever you now. But, you are pretty lucky.」

「Ayy?」

Guisias regained some hope hearing Blanc’s word and raised his head. But what he saw was a evil smile.

「At least you are not the only one getting punished. At least you won’t feel lonely that way.」

In front of Blanc are Guisias’s companions’ figures. Their faces all filled with fear and agony. Their body are all ugly, distorted and erosed. They’ve been stripped of all clothings, and one can hardly tell they once were high rank nobles.

「N-no! Forgive me, please forgive me!」

「That won’t do. Farewell then, Baka~. Enjoy the spell that grants you eternal suffering without death.」

Guisias heard that annoying yet beautiful voice.

37 Why are you crying so much? Have you pissed yourself too? 170

「NOOOOOOO——!!」

Guisias left the world with a loud scream before his consciousness was consumed by terror and agony——what comes next is inferno that cannot be described in words.

◇◇◇ Afterwards, the empire army that rushed into Silberia Kingdom were terrified by the mere sights of the horror. Then there were fierce battles against the demons. The elites who triumphed against the demons were able to head to the capital. There, they confronted Blanc.

By that time they arrived, Blanc has completed her revenge and was filled with lonlieness. She has no motivation in fighting whatsoever.

(I feel so empty. Blanche is not around, nor it’s this country as my playground. I suppose I don’t have any more reason to stick around these lands——)

Blanc spars the empire knights while thinking that.

「Don’t get careless! From the situation, our enemy is Primordial “White”. But do not be afraid! Us trinity38 will not be defeated even against Primordial blanc.」

Blanc has little interest in combating the menacing knights.

(What a mess. I could just win but it won’t be good if I hurt Blanche’s body. I should just retrieve to let the children of this land have a good sleep.)

Blanc gave up on fighting early on. It was the saving straw for the knights that confronted blanc. Their identity is the most elite military force in the empire, the emperor’s royal knight corps. However, the knights are no match for Queen of Blanc. If Blanc were to fight seriously, the empire army would likely be wiped out. They were convinced of their victory, not realizing their luck in avoiding their complete demise. Then, Blanc——

38 Referring to the three members of the Royal army corp in eastern empire who “took down” Testa mentioned in empire invasion arc. 171

She left her host body and cut tie with the physical world as her parting gift for Blanche. In order for no one to ever touch her flesh and let it stay immortally beautiful, Blanc casted a special seal to bury Blanche under this land.

「Good night, Blanche. I’ll have the souls of those who kept their promise sent to you as well, so that you will not feel lonely on the otherside, and may you rest in peace there.」

Many souls with shining sparks gather around Blanche’s soul. Then, Blanc carefully released them all. Even though demons enjoy soul the most…

「Farewell. When would I… meet you again...」 Perhaps Blanc didn’t want to consume Blanche’s soul and for that she pretended to be destroyed by the knights.

The wind is troubled. Then, the demons’ aura vanished from this land.

◇◇◇ In the past, this land once was a small nation named Silberia. Its vintage towns stood tall, surrounding a beautiful lake.

Today, there’s not a trace of that left. The lake shore is dyed scarlet by blood, its reddish-brown water reaches as deep as the sea. The laughters of demons echo days and nights. The ancient city is a tombstone. A cursed land.

A kingdom once stood met its demise. The truth behind it will never be revealed.

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Afterword & Acknowledgement Thank you for reading Fuse Sensei’s work and my translation

Support by purchasing the physical or digital copies of official JP or EN editions on the following websites: https://micromagazine.net/gcn/slime/ - JP Official website for Tensura series https://yenpress.com/ - EN Official Translation of Light Novel https://bookwalker.jp/ - JP Digital copy purchase site

This is a fan translation. This is not to be used in any commercial means All rights of source materials reserved to Fuse and MICROMAGAZINE

Credits to JP-CN translators: TukikamiSan, Petals_Dance, cheandfei, 七炭, Special thanks to people at Tensura Reddit server for their feedback, you are all wonderful.

Note that this is a solo translation project and I lack editor. If you would like to give feedback regarding my translation, or help with the editing, contact me at Tensura Reddit server at with the alias DasRay_1911. https://discord.gg/43s7fV6 - /r/TenseiSlime discord server

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