3rd Pov
Inside the nation ruled by demon lord Clayman, Jistav...currently Milim was laying on the ground, her eyes blank, seemingly mind controlled.
In front of her, Clayman who was beating her up...throwing kicks and punches as he released his anger.
Clayman : Shit ! Why ! How did those worthless humans lose to this slime !
He had just received the news of Falmuth defeat and also the death of one of his 5 fingers, Pirone...
On the side, Frey stayed silent though he couldn't help but feel disgusted...her eyes trailed down toward Milim.
Frey : (Just wait a little more...)
Clayman : I swear ! Those incompetent trash can't even take a slime !
His eyes beamed in rage as he turned toward Frey.
Clayman : Anything else to report ?!
The harpy sighed as she tanked his killing gaze, she brought out a stack of paper she was carrying and started talking.
Frey : Those are the reports of my subordinates...it seems that multiple rumors have been spreading around...
Clayman : Rumours ?
Frey : Firstly...the beastman under Carrion went to Tempest after we took care of him...
Clayman : Tch, that doesn't matter, those beats are worthless.
Frey narrowed her eyes, just a few days ago...Milim and her were sent to « kill » Carrion...which ended successfully.
Frey : Secondly, it seems that Falmuth's army was wiped out by the storm dragon Veldora...
Clayman : Huh ?
Taking a thoughtful pose as he calmed down...A few days ago, Veldora's aura flared through the entire world announcing his revival...
Clayman : So it was the doing of the Storm dragon...as expected, a vulgar slime couldn't be capable of such feats !
Revitalized and in denial, Clayman smiled triumphantly...Frey silently rolled her eyes and continued.
Frey : Lastly...it seems the Ace of God was seen around the Jura forest...the reason for his presence is still unknown.
To this last report, Clayman's eyes widened...he had heard a lot of this Ace of God and not only that, his master had warned him to not go against Ruberios as long as he is there.
Clayman : Why would that guy be there...could he be trying to avenge the holy knight that fell during the war ?
Multiple possibilities opened but the more he dug, the further apart he became of the truth...
A few days ago...after the victory feast of Tempest ended, everyone returned to their daily life while rebuilding the city.
Dawn was currently on the training ground, his sword aimed toward Hakurou's own weapon...the kijin swordmaster actually took an interest after hearing that Dawn was a swordsman.
Deciding to train a little, it turned into a light spar...the other trainee and soldier around watched silently.
As their demon teacher actually had to be serious...
Hakurou : Your swordsmanship is great Dawn-dono...may i ask who is your teacher ?
Exchanging words as they clashed, Dawn smiled softly.
Dawn : Well if i have to give a name...it would be the chosen Hero, Chronoa...
Hakurou : Oh ? The hero that sealed Veldora-sama ? That's surprising...
Dawn : Well, she did teach me a lot...but after that I just wandered around the world learning from every sword wielder I met.
Hakurou : I see...
Hakurou could understand that the swordsmanship he was facing was chaotic, calm, accurate, impressive, simple yet complex...
It's as if he was fighting multiple swordmaster who switched patterns every swing...Ultimately, the old kijin lost control as his eyes couldn't keep up.
Launching a vertical slash, Hakurou had to use his crestwater slash but it swiftly got deviated...using the edge of his sword, Dawn used the momentum granted to put it all on the offensive.
In the split of a second, he disarmed him and brought his blade right below his opponent's neck.
Hakurou : It's my loss...
Dawn : You are strong Hakurou-san...I might have lost if this went on for a little bit longer.
Naturally, the sowrd ogre's defeat made the watching public burst into whisper...
Gobuta : No way...that old man lost..
Reactions like these appeared everywhere.
Hakurou : Hohoho, it's not good to lie you know...anyway, i was a bit curious seeing your sword but as expected a good weapon is always accompanied by a good wielder.
Nodding, they exchanged a good handshake before leaving for their own activity...now Dawn had to pay a visit to Kurobe and Kaijin's forge...
At the same time as Hakurou, they were curious about his sword which radiated the aura of a piece of art.
Though Dawn accepted because...maybe, just maybe they could upgrade his sword even further...
It was currently a graded Legend weapon...but its power could go even further, as suggested by its enormous amount of EP...this sword in itself was an anomaly.
2 millions of Ep from Dimension...this was a considerable amount...
Dawn : (Anyway, the beastmen should be arriving in a few hours...Gazel and Erald are already on the move...)
The reason he decided to stay in Tempest in the meantime was because of these guests...Dawn wants to form a diplomatic alliance with Tempest now.
Hinata and Rimuru's fight didn't go overload as he stepped in before...and with his standing in Ruberios, he could take such a decision on his own.
Worst that could happen is giving a long report to Luminous afterward.
Dawn : Anyway, I'm here...
Looking at the workshop of Kurobe, the sound of a hammer slamming metal could be heard from inside.
The building in itself was rather old looking, it's probably because of the constant crushing heat and blacksmith like design that it was kept that way.
Entering the building, as expected the heat was so intense that normal people would run away immediately.
Dawn : Kurobe-san ? I'm here as you asked.
Despite his call out, the blacksmith kijin didn't stop what he was doing...his focus was total as he along with some apprentice were working on forging swords.
The war with Falmuth just ended but the threat and bigger picture are yet to be dealt with...so they have a massive order of weapons to build.
Dawn : Oh ?
But he couldn't help but notice the weapon Kurobe himself was making...it was still raw but it's quality and form was bound to be perfect.
Also, he could feel a strong will coming from Kurobe at each slam...
Dawn : (This must be the future sword of Tempest...to think he would start forging it so soon and end it in a few months...)
Kaijin : Oh ? If it isn't Dawn-dono !
Coming from behind, the elder dwarf made his appearance...
Dawn : Yeah...I just wanted to see this nation's blacksmith...
Kaijin : I see, well we did ask you to come once so feel free to look around.
Granning, after a short while...the three of them Kaijin, Kurobe and Dawn were sitting around a table.
The two blacksmiths having in their hand, the holy sword crafted by the vampire...they couldn't be more fascinated.
Kaijin : On the outside, it's a marvelous blade but the details are even more impressive.
Kurobe : Yes...the sharpness, the weight, the blade curve and its enchantment...everything is perfect...
Dawn : Well it's a sword that accompanied me for centuries...I always took good care of it but it stayed the same since its creation...
That was only the half truth, while traveling the sword bathed in his magicule and adapted solely for Dawn's usage.
Kurobe : And the ore used for this...it seems rather odd, maybe even unique ?
Dawn : It was an ultra cold ore generated by the fusion of pure ore and a skill.
Kaijin : I see...sorry but this sword is literally what you call an exception, with our current skill and abilities, we would just break its balance...
Kurobe : Yes...we also lack information about this ore...sorry but still it's really a bliss for the eyes.
Dawn : I see...it's fine I'm glad you liked my partner.
Smiling, he grabbed Dimension and inspected the blade...it seemed there was really no room for improvement.
Kaijin : But...it's just a gut feeling but I feel like this sword is alive ?
Dawn : Alive ? What do you mean ?
Kaijin : Well, it's hard to tell but when I was holding it...I felt like [Dimension] was rejecting my hold...
Kurobe : Now that you mention it...i felt it too, it's like even if we can lift it we won't be able to use it well ?
Dawn was a bit perplexed, he glanced at his sword again and wondered...Swords in tensura were a big mystery...
They had Ep and were recognized existence with names and all...
Danw : (Could it be a process similar to a Manas...an inanimate weapon gaining a will?)
Pondering, the clear blade reflected his own mirror self...staring down at his own eyes, he felt it too ;
Dawn : I see...thank you, you two, now I feel there could be some room for improvement.
Smirking, he had an idea that involved forcing an ego out of Dimension...it might take some time to develop but if he manages it, then this sword could join the likes of Tenma and World...
After this short discussion, Dawn left again...this time he went toward Tempest headquarter main hall.
It seems while he was busy talking to Kurobe and Kaijin, the beastmen arrived...it was earlier than he expected but at least he won't have to attend this.
Dawn : Now that I think, Tempest has already developed quite well in terms of gastronomy...maybe I should wander around hunting for food ?
He got some free time for now the report from Eleonor and Yuu should be coming soon, everything is starting build up nicely.
Only problem is Horizon...Dawn did try to localize him but nothing, his fate too was uncertain...
Dawn : My skill can't see it anymore...that means he is either dead or someone is countering me...
And since their soul corridor was still existing...then an ultimate skill holder must be behind this.
Dagruel attacked Ruberios suddenly, it certainly isn't a decision he would take on his own...the only one capable of ordering the giant right now is...
Dawn : Guy Crimson...someone like him could certainly block me...
Testarossa : Don't daydream in front of the door.
Suddenly being called out by the primordial Blanc, it seems that before he knew he was already standing in front of the general office of Tempest.
With Testarossa, Diablo, Benimaru and a few guests were there
Dawn : Sorry...
Testarossa : No need to be so bland you know...anyway if you came here to meet Lord Rimuru then it's a bit late as he left for Veldora's cave a few hours ago.
Dawn : Oh ? (he went there quicker than originally, maybe Raphael's analysis also is faster? Also it seems Rimuru hasn't learned about Eurazania's situation yet.)
Dawn nodded gently before turning toward the people behind the demon...the beastkeepers of Eurazania.
He already had no real relation with Eurazania as Ruberios just decided to ignore them, still he could feel their wary gaze.
Hero and monster aren't a good pair after all...
Suphia : Hey Albis...this guy is bad news...it is really ok to have him around ?
Albis : Shut it Suphia...considering how he greeted Rimuru-sama, he must be a guest here...we are not in position to say such a thing.
Suphia : Y-your right.
As daring as always, thought Dawn...
Walking past him, he could still feel the piercing and doubtful glare of Suphia in his back.
Dawn : Ahh seriously...and me who wanted to adopt a kitten before...
Sighing, he just proceeded to move forward...things accelerated from now onward.
A few days later, Rimuru was isolated in Veldora's cave as he had something to do there...which was secretly releasing Veldora from Unlimited imprisonment.
But before he knew, he had stayed inside the cave for days...which started irritating some beastmen under Suphia.
They had come to Tempest in hope of seeking help from the ruler of the monster who had a close tie with their master Carrion but the slime demon lord was nowhere to be seen...
This naturally started to decrease the already impatient Suphia.
Now in front of Veldora's cave, those same beastmen led by the tigress were marching toward the cave.
Suphia : It has been 3 days now...
Gritting her teeth, time was something valuable they couldn't waste right now...3 days ago, Veldora's magicule suddenly reappeared.
It was so potent that the entire forest felt it...the beastmen too, they wanted to check on Rimuru afterward but he was nowhere to be seen.
And his subordinates are stopping any access to the cave...something was clearly going on.
Diablo : Stop right there, Rimuru-sama specifically ordered that no one enter the cave as long as he doesn't come out on his own.
Halting at the appearance of Diablo, Suphia growled in anger...soon the other beastkeeper came out from behind...
One could hope they dissuaded Suphia but instead they took her party.
Albis : I am sorry if it comes out rude but...we need to at least know Rimuru-sama's condition.
Diablo : My lord's orders are absolute.
Suphia : Oi ! What if something happened to your lord ! The storm dragon was just revived !
Diablo : My lord is perfectly fine, so you should go back now.
Glaring at each other, it was clear that Diablo didn't like how these beastmen were doubting his master after receiving his grace.
Diablo : Are you insinuating Rimuru-sama being too weak to take care of himself ?
Suphia : If he wasn't then he would already be out !
This was the droplet that overflew the vase, Diablo's aura flared startling the group of beastmen...unconsciously Phobio and Suphia raised their fangs while Albis backed down slightly.
She was not a hothead like her two companions, she immediately understood the difference in power...if they fought, they would be decimated.
Fortunately, this short conflict was solved as both Testarossa and Dawn came forward.
Testarossa : Now now, Diablo-chan, you shouldn't be this harsh with our allies.
She was smiling sweetly though you could tell she had venom in her eyes...after hearing that some beastmen were marching toward their lord's cave.
Most of Tempest executives moved toward it too...for their own reason.
Dawn was with Testa the whole day as the demon was interested in the one who defeated her fellow primordial Violet a few centuries ago.
And having received no orders from Rimuru, she thought watching over this human hero was a good idea...
Anyway, they came here earlier than the other but it didn't seem Testarossa was going to let off Suphia and her group after insulting their lord.
Sighing, Dawn just stepped forward...it seems he will have to play the pacifist part this time...fitting his title of hero.
Dawn : Seriously...we came here to diffuse the situation you know...not add oil on the fire.
Testarossa : We demons aren't fond of such concept.
Dawn : Whatever, oi Diablo you should retract your aura for now...you are scaring those beastmen.
Walking closer to the primordial black, Dawn wasn't much affected though he was a bit uncomfortable...not because of the power displayed by Diablo but its nature.
Maybe it was his nature as an awakened hero that reacted strongly to the aura of a primordial demon.
Diablo : Kufufu, if they can't even stand that much they shouldn't come barking-
Dawn : Stop right there...you already hurted their pride so don't go shattering whatever is left in them please...
Since he was showing no sign of stopping, Dawn was going to do it himself...using his own aura.
The process is simple, aura comes out of one's body so if you can trap it then you can neutralize it.
It's like a smoke bomb...if you put it in a perfectly sealed box then nothing will come out...with this principle as base, Dawn's aura circle and closed around Diablo stopping the emission of demon lord Haki.
Diablo : Impressive, to think you would have such control over your passive aura...
Dawn : I used to flex a lot in the past...so I naturally got good at controlling it (Actually it felt natural...I don't really know why...)
At last things calmed down...thought it was bound to go down as Benimaru and the others came in shortly after.
Dawn : (Ahh seriously...i don't know how Rimuru is dealing with those primordials...they are just too tiring...)
Testarossa : Fufu, you did quite well.
Dawn : For the proud primordial Blanc to compliment me...it might rain blood soon.
Chuckling, Dawn found out how casual Testarossa was with him...it was their second meeting if you count her summon day.
Yet, they could be mistaken to be two friends walking side by side...
Testarossa : As I thought you look like them...
Dawn : Mmh ?
Testarossa : It was just a gut feeling but now I'm almost certain...the way you controlled your aura is similar to how a friend of mine used to play with her power.
Both staring at Benimaru and the other who just arrived, they were talking with the beastmen calming them.
Testarossa : You lived for a long time now so you should know...the kingdom of Silberia.
Dawn : Yeah...are you trying to mention the Lake shore died scarlet incident ?
Testarossa : No...I just think you look a lot like the royal family of that kingdom.
Dawn : ...
Testarossa : Dawn-san ?
Receiving no response, Testa turned her head curious...she was a bit surprised to see Dawn's eyes widened as if he remembered something...
Testarossa : Did something happen ?
Dawn : Ah...n-no...
Testarossa's eyes narrowed suspiciously but ultimately she shrugged it off as she could feel her lord's aura finally coming out...
Along him, the powerful storm dragon through his aura seemed to be contained and controlled.
Testa, having to greet her master, went ahead leaving Dawn alone...to his own thoughts.
Dawn Pov
When she brought up the kingdom of Silberia, a flux of memories hitted me...
I was back in the past staring at a white haired lady with red eyes...she looked a lot like Testarossa but she was human...a member of the royal family of Silberia.
Dawn : (Where am i?)
He tried to turn his head but no movement was made...it's as if he wasn't in control of his body and he was just using his eyes to see.
???: Our research on homunculus is nowhere near complete...at this rate you'll have to wait another century before we develop something worthwhile.
The woman in front of him spoke...suddenly a name crossed his mind, it just appeared as if it was naturally engraved in his mind.
???: I see...it should be enough for now, thank you Weiss Nam Silberia.
His mouth moving on its own...Dawn realized that he was projected in a memory for a faraway past...
Contrary to before he wasn't watching the scene from the third pov but at the first pov...and this body was most likely...
Weiss : Our kingdom greatly benefited from your great duke...even if your land is gone, keeping a healthy relation with you will always be advantageous.
Origin : This might be the last time we meet though.
Weiss : Indeed, I'm quite saddened by that...
It seems that memories happened a few years after Shyria or Sola's death...if i'm correct Origin should be actively trying to revive Shyria...
Homunculus research, huh...this is a good starting point to procreate life.
But this woman Weiss...it seems she is the queen of Silberia from a long time ago...
Origin : I should get going then...we wouldn't want your husband the king to think something is happening here right.
Weiss : I wouldn't thought.
Chuckling, this woman sure seems troublesome...the sort of manipulative yet friendly queen...still Origin had contact like this, huh.
Origin : We are just doing business, though you should know that I totally despise you.
Weiss : ...
Mmh ? Why did he say that ? And from his tone it's pure hatred...
Weiss : I know...I regret doing that too...
Origin : You regret which decision ? Giving birth to her or abandoning her ?
Weiss : Both...
What are they saying ? Did Weiss get an unwanted child and abandon it ? Then a descendant of Silebria would be free in the nature...
Origin : You are pathetic.
Weiss : I know that too...
Looking down, she seemed to genuinely regret her action...I was still pondering on the situation when another flood of memories came up.
It was more painful than the last one but at least I got an answer...
Origin : Shyria...that commoner girl who became my friend and served me...she was your abandoned child...
To think that girl was royal blooded...but why would Weiss abandon her ?
Weiss : It couldn't be helped...that day I had cheated on my husband, giving birth to a half blooded Silberian...
Shyria's hair was grayish white instead of pure white and her eyes...green totally different from the crimson red Silveria's royal family had.
She was obviously going to get neglected and tarnish the royal family's image.
Origin : To avoid all this and be discovered by your husband...you threw her away into my territory.
Weiss : It was for everyone's good...beside, she was a defective chil-
Origin : Don't try to sound even more pathetic than you already are
I just stared at the scene silently, it seemed Origin was harsher than ever during that time...he was totally overwhelming this queen...even if she was in the wrong.
Origin : You are giving and helping me with those researches because you regret it right...
Looming the stack of paper containing every single bit of research on Homunculus Silberia had...it was clear Weiss didn't hold back on this report...
You could see her desperation through those stacks of papers...
Weiss : N-no...it's just to create a perfect body for Blanc-sama...
Dawn : It's a lie...when I came to ask for your help...you gave in only after I mentioned Shyria...
I remember...Origin had done heavy research on Shyria after her death...he had discovered her origin being from Silberia but the fact that she was a royalty...
It was only after he met with Weiss again...they only had a few prior political meetings as Silberia held close ties with Averion port city.
Dawn : You also don't ask me anything in return...what are you trying to achieve ? Tell me...
Weiss : ...
It seems Origin had perfectly seen through her...he must have quite the insight in seeking others out.
Weiss : Ahh...seriously, I really can't beat you...
Even I am surprised but I guess he was a great duke, someone of his standing must be exceptional politically.
Weiss : Yes...you're right, I totally regret abandoning Shyria...she was the only child I gave birth to with love...and I couldn't even be with her !
Tears stormed her eyes...it seems she didn't abandon her out of her own will.
Weiss : I thought she had died...that i couldn't see her anymore but when you came to that meeting 7 years ago with her as your subordinate...I couldn't be happier...
Origin : Is that why you easily gave in to Averion's demand despite your king's opposition ?
7 years ago, there was an important meeting where most of the powerful rulers were invited...it was way before the eastern empire's era...so the forces were actually matching.
The current king of Silberia is quite tyrannical and isn't acting on logic while Weiss does...that's why she takes most of the decision...
But during that meeting, she eagerly searched to form an alliance with Averion...even going as far as turning down some contract with the other ruler present.
That day even her husband noticed how illogical she was acting...
Weiss : Yes...I wanted to hold my daughter so badly, the girl that I thought died but couldn't due to my own guilt...
Origin : Tch...i should have noticed back then...
Weiss : But fortunately it seemed that she was the happiest by your side...so i stopped pursuing and instead wanted to help her as an external factor...
Even so, the fact that she abandoned her remained...
Weiss : I was genuinely happy to see her blooming somewhere else...in good hands but when you came here and announced her death...I felt like my world crashed a second time.
Holding her chest, the loud sound of heartbeat could be heard around the room.
Weiss : I couldn't tell Shyria how much I cherished her, how much I wished to hug her...how much I wanted to apologize and beg for her forgiveness...
Origin : Is that why you started those researches ?
Weiss : You know even that...yeah, Silberia never meddles in those kinds of things but when you told me your plan...I felt hope.
It seems those huge stacks of paper containing valuable information on Homucus were prepared on short notice...
Weiss : The moment you gave me that hope 2 years ago...I had every single researcher and mage in Silveria to work on this...day and night, I never stopped just to get this spark of hope lit.
This was clearly hard work to the extreme, from zero to expert, she must have put on herself and her worker an extra load of stress and work.
Weiss : All this just for the hope of seeing her again...and this time i'll do it properly !
She wanted to be recognized as Shyria's mother...not just a king woman who happened to be another nation's queen.
Even the likes of me who didn't feel much pity toward human emotion could empathize...but the same couldn't be said for Origin.
Origin : You should have said it earlier...even if i succeed she may never be the same.
Weiss : I know...but what can I say ? I can't go back in time...it's only after losing something that you understand how precious it was.
Turning around, Origin didn't seem to be moved at all...i guess he heart also became colder as time passed.
Or so i thought...
Origin : Survive a few more years and perhaps you might see her again.
Weiss's eyes widened as she looked up at Origin's backing figure...this sure was a ray of hope for her, maybe exactly what she needed to hear in this situation.
Weiss : I will...
With that, the memories closed as I went back to the present...Testarossa already left to talk with Rimuru and the others.
While I kept standing there alone...contemplating the conclusion of these memories...
5 years after this...Weiss was killed by her husband...i don't know the details but she never had to repent herself with Shyria...
Dawn : What a tragic story...
Anyway, after this Rimuru and the others moved to a meeting room to talk...i moved aside letting them talk as this was something between Tempest and Eurazania.
Rimuru Pov
After getting Veldora out and finishing synthesizing my skills, we started to make our way out...
On the way, Veldora kept bragging how good Manga were and described them as Holy text...he is turning into an otaku...
Veldora : By the way...this manga reminds me of one of your friends...
Rimuru : Huh ?
Turning toward him as we walked, I read the title of the book he was holding...how did he even materialize this manga...
Anyway, it was a basic manga where the main character was a knight for the church where he had to fight an evil dragon at the end of the story...
Veldora : That hero human you hang out with...
Rimuru : Oh Dawn-kun ? You know him ?
Veldora : I vaguely remember...but I think before I was sealed by that masked hero...I saw him fend off a few of my dragon breaths I accidentally threw...
Accidentally, huh...i couldn't help but sweetdrop, this old man sure caused quite the chaos before...
Anyway, it seems Dawn-kun is a bigger deal than I originally thought...I don't know much about him either...
Veldora : But it was quite the surprise to see him with you...this guy became stronger, it tickled my instinct when you met him during the Orc battle.
Rimuru : I see...
Raphael : (Notice : Analysis of individual : Dawn is possible...would you like to proceed?)
Eh ? Wait wait wait...you can analyse him, Raphael ?
Raphael : (Affirmative, via the semi soul-corridor he had created back then, by retracing the remnant of it, an analysis of the individual : Dawn is possible.)
Oh right, I remember when he shared some magicule so I could summon Diablo...I thought that soul corridor was already gone...
Still, analyze him...is that even right to do ? Maybe I should ask him first ?
Raphael : (Should I send a thought communication to him?)
Rimuru : Mmh...nah for now let's just wait.
Raphael : (As you wish.)
Is it me or Raphael is more emotive ? Well whatever, for now I should focus on what is in front of me...
We could see the light from the outside, it seemed it was still daytime.
Rimuru : Mmh ?
Veldora : Oho ? It seems some people are arguing outside.
Rimuru : Ugh...I already have a headache...
Sighing, we quickly got out and checked on the commotion...I could see Benimaru, Diablo arguing with some beastmen...
If I remember correctly, there are Suphia and Albis who came a few months ago and Phobio, well who caused me some trouble...
What are they doing here ?
Benimaru : Rimuru-sama ! You are finally out !
Noticing my presence, soon everyone approached as they faced me, my subordinates knelt down or bowed respectively.
Ahh, troubles...troubles are really coming, anyway after this I listened to Diablo and Benimaru report the situation.
In the midst of it, Testa joined in too...it seem those beastmen had to flew Eurazania...but why ?
Benimaru : Well...it seems demon lord Milim Nava declared war on Eurazania and...wiped out the entire nation...
Rimuru : Eh ? AHH?!
What in the world is this situation...Milim...what are you doing ?!
First Falmuth now Eurazania, is this really a coincidence ? Everything was happening at the same time...Hinata also knew that I was an otherworlder...
Anyway, before reaching a conclusion I should hear the whole story...
Shion : By the way, Rimuru-sama..;who is that man behind you ?
Rimuru : Oh...I forgot to present him...
Turning toward Veldora, I didn't expect to see him adjusting his air and breathing hard trying to hide his excitement...
W-well, I guess having no real social contact for 300 years must be hard...
Rimuru : This is my friend, Veldora-kun.
Ah...their reactions are really priceless...though it took me every existing effort to explain everything.
In the end, I was deemed as the culprit who made Veldora disappear and changed the entire forest though no one dared mention it.
Shortly after, we switched to a meeting room...where Phobio and Albis explained the situation...
Milim declared war, a week later she came and fought Carrion which led to the destruction of their capital city...
Then demon lord Frey appeared backstabbing Carrion...we then concluded that demon lord Clayman must be behind all this.
Mainly because Frey and Milim left for his territory after dealing with Carrion...
Anyway, things basically just got more complicated...for now we came up with a few plans...
Rimuru : Clayman must be aiming for Eurazania citizen's souls...
This was the final conclusion we came up with and to counter that, I got my Rapahel to help.
At the end, we finally got out of this room after a long hour of discussion...now what awaits me is a long series of teleportation.
As I have to get every remaining citizen of Eurazania out of the beast kingdom territory before Clayman's force stumbles on them.
Developing a new spell based on space domination, Raphael easily executed my mission...a little bit too easy i think...
3rd Pov
As another day passed, Rimuru kept crawling under work as more and more refugees for Eurazania came in.
They had to take care of the logement, food and some short skirmishes due to cultural differences...
Rimuru could breath only after the end of the second day,
Rimuru : Seriously...
Shuna : Rimuru-sama, can i enter ?
Unfortunately, it seems his break has to be cut short...giving his approval, Shuna entered with a trail of tea and smiled awkwardly.
Shuna : E-eto...you have some guests...
Rimuru : ... Ahhhh ! Give me a break !!!
After calming down, he rushed to the city entrance where his guests were waiting...those people being a few friends and acquaintances he had made a while before...
Fuze : Rimuru-dono ! We came here to help !
Flashing a proud smile...it seems the news of Falmuth defeat has yet to reach the guild.
Rimuru : Haha...how to explain the situation now...
Souei : (Report : King Gazel Dwargo accompanied by around 300 pegasus knights are on their way here.)
Rimuru : Haha...
Raphael : (Notice : Several presence are hidden in the tree nearby, they are most likely elfs.)
Rimuru : Hahaha...
Inside the holy sanctuary of Ruberios...
Louis, Roy and Hinata were kneeling in front of their ruler...queen of nightmare, Luminous Valentine.
She was particularly serious while glaring down at her subordinates.
Luminous : Seriously...to think that weakling Clayman would invoke a Walpurgis...he has the support of Frey and Milim, huh.
Hinata : What should we do ?
The situation was quite dire, Luminous wanted to avoid meeting with Guy for the time being as their relationship wasn't at their best.
But this Walpurgis had for subject the same slime Chronoa had mentioned back then...
She had to attend this Walpurgis...
Luminous : Ahh...Gunthler, do you have any news from Dawn ?
Standing beside her, the butler nodded once before speaking up.
Gunthler : It seems he is currently staying in the monster nation...i contacted him and it seems he is trying to form an alliance with the ruler of monsters.
Luminous : An alliance, huh...
Normally, this would be a form of disrespect and assurgence...a simple subordinate taking such an important decision on his own.what more is that it goes against the church doctrine.
Luminous : I see...this is a good decision.
She muttered under her breath but everyone present caught it, looking up confused...this decision was bound to cause an uproar in Ruberios.
Some might even question Dawn's loyalty to the church.
Louis : If I may...how is this good ?
Luminous : This world is secretly separated in two factions...the eastern empire led by the emperor and the demon lord led by the lord of darkness.
Luminous and Ruberios were in a tight spot, they joined the demon lord yet Guy never really saw her as an ally.
They were temporary partners, you could say...it was a matter of time before they bare fangs at each other.
Rimuru and the Jura Tempest federation is an opportunity for them to find another strong alliance in case the one with the demon lord stopped.
Hinata : To think the situation was so...I almost messed up everything...
After learning the whole situation, she realized that things were constantly happening behind her back....under her nose and in the background.
She attacked Rimuru without consulting Luminous, it was a decision purely based on her personal feeling and because of that she almost blew up an opportunity for Ruberios.
Luminous : Don't worry about it...for now let's just focus on the current matter, Roy you supervised the sudden assault of the giants, right.
Roy : Hai...about that, may I ask a question ?
This was also a sensible subject...as a demon lord, they had a pact of non-aggression, yet Dagruel went himself on the battlefield to invade Ruberios.
Normally, Guy Crimson would have intervened but he didn't...this was one more point showing that Luminous might have to leave the council soon.
Luminous : What is it ?
Roy : I...i didn't know there was a knight capable of fighting demon lord Dagruel on his own...even if he lost, his battle was witnessed by the other knights and even some of the Holy knights under lady Hinata, here.
Luminous : You mean Horizon White, huh...the situation was too sudden so I had to resort to them...
Roy : Them ?
Hinata listened silently, this was something even she was unaware...a group of people strong enough to go against the Ten great saints...
Luminous : Ah...seriously, curse you Dagruel...
Groaning in annoyance, Luminous's eyes wandered toward the large entrance door to this throne room.
Luminous : Unit : Fallen Light...if you see the holy knight as the light of Ruberios...then this secret unit is its darkness.
Roy : But how come neither me or Louis has ever heard of them...
Hinata : I would like to know as well...
The vampire queen gave an amused grin.
Luminous : Because you didn't need to know...it was a group Dawn formed himself, in fact they aren't that loyal to me either...
Louis : Sir Dawn ?
Hinata : To think such a group was moving without us knowing.
Roy : But isn't that bad ? I doubt Dawn-dono but they should be at Luminous-sama's service.
Luminous shook her head, sure this was quite a shame they didn't follow her wholeheartedly but it was fine.
Luminous : Speaking of the wolves, you three can come in.
At her seemingly order, everyone turned around directing their attention toward the door entrance...a light portal opened before letting 3 people cross.
The figurine leading was a woman wearing a purple yukata...her short black hair and elegance immediately looked in Hinata her japanese nature.
Hinata : (A japanese ? No, she seems more like chinese?)
She was half right, the woman in front of her was a crossbreed between the two asiatic nations.
Bringing out a fan, she hid her face behind it.
Luminous : This is the third time we meet...Flora Eta Florance...
Smirking, this was the fifth member of the fallen light...and by far the deadliest, a beautiful flower that wielded poison deep inside.
Flora : I greet the queen of nightmare.
Bowing in the japanese fashion, the two people with her followed right ahead...Hinata couldn't be more curious as she could feel the gaze of one of the attendants.
While Flora seemed to be the main figurine of her group...the people accompanying her weren't at rest.
On her right was a man with short brain hair, he had this small bad boy vibe...the second member that has joined their unit.
Lucas Schwartz...otherworlder coming from Germany...
But the one who truly intrigued Hinata was the other attendant...a lady who hid everything about her identity...
A long cape followed with a hood, her face hidden behind a white mask...only a few strands of black hair could be seen.
Hinata : She seems familiar...
Flora : My~where are our manners...i apologize for this late introduction, my name is Flora Eta Florance, for the time being I represent our small family known as the Fallen light.
Bowing once again with a smile, she directly turned toward her companion and spoke again.
Flora : Those two are Lucas Schwartz and Shi...we came here today to pay our respect to the demon lord Valentine but also to talk about the recent matter of the battle against the giants at the border of Ruberios.
Despite being younger than Lucas, she was the one who did the talking...after all she was only second to Yuu when it came to that.
Luminous's loyal subordinates were perplex at the scene...they didn't know how to react as Luminous herself didn't seem upset.
Luminous : Horizon was taken by Dagruel...I'm still waiting for Dawn to come back to take the final decision...
Flora : I see, it would be preferable, yes...actually I came here for another reason.
Luminous : Oh ?
Taking a more serious expression, Flora closed her fan and turned toward Shi who nodded.
Flora : We are here under our leader's order...and ask formally for the execution of the Clergy of the Seven days.
Her gray eyes shining through the cold room, a wild glint could be seen as a sadistic smile formed on her beautiful face.
Luminous : Do you understand what you are saying ?
Flora : Yes...
Louis : Wait ! This isn't a joking matter ! Why would you want that ?!
Naturally Roy and Louis were outraged, even Hinata was shocked...it was natural since the Clergy served Ruberios for a century now...
Even if they didn't like them, disposing of them just like that is too much...
Flora : Joking matter ? If you really think I'm joking then allow me to doubt the capabilities of those who lead this nation.
Getting insulted, Louis's pride took a large hit...he tried to retort but Luminous's sudden burst of aura stopped all talk.
Luminous : Calm down Louis, though you are really insolent, can I know what Dawn is planning for now ?
Flora : Luminous-sama should already know but the Clergy had been acting on their own for awhile now...even if their actions are meant to show how loyal they are to you, our leader already deemed them useless, not maybe even a threat for Ruberios.
Luminous : So this is for this nation's good ?
Flora nodded without hesitation, her eyes softened a little...
Flora : To prove our good will, allow us to protect the church while you are at the Walpurgis.
Luminous : I see...so the shadow wants to become the light now...
It was finally time for this existence unknown to all to come to light...Horizon already made quite the introduction scene so hiding any further would just raise the suspicion.
Luminous : Then can I count on you to fight for Ruberios in case of war against the other demon lord ?
At this, Flora closed her eyes...you could think she was hesitating but the man beside her was betraying her silence.
Lucas was grinning madly, his hand tightly gripped his weapon.
Flora : Naturally, once we gain more of your trust, we naturally hope to gain more important posts within this nation.
Luminous : Is this what you wish or what Dawn told you to ?
Flora : I can't say for others but personally, I started to think of this nation as my own home...my family and friends are here too, I can't abandon all this, right?
Smiling sincerely, Flora brought out a sakura flower hairpin and carefully adjusted it in her hair.
She truly wore her name « Flora » well.
Luminous : (That's a lie...she doesn't care about Ruberios or her friends/family...i had the occasion to interact with this particular group a few times since its creation...but Flora Eta Florance is the most mysterious one...)
Even now, Luminous knew she was being deceived...from what Dawn told her, Flora possessed 3 unique skills which made her very valuable.
One of them is the skill : Deceiver...which allows her to deceive anyone acting over their subconscious...
Naturally being a unique skill, those who possess the grade above can see through her lie but they have to know beforehand that she could actually be deceiving them.
Luminous : I see...then I will take Dawn and Roy to the Walpurgis, you'll play the rôle of demon lord Valentine once again.
Flora : Wait ! If you allow me...please instead of Roy-dono, could you take this girl with you ?
Presenting Shi who stayed quiet the whole time, Luminous was a bit surprised at this sudden request...though she didn't decline it directly.
Luminous : (This girl is Shizu Izawa, the conqueror of flames and Hinata's former teacher, right...since the last I saw her, she grew expendly stronger...in terms of power she might be a better choice than Roy.)
Roy : What are you saying ?!
Flora : We know it's a selfish request but Shi here has something important to do at the Walpurgis...we already talked with our leader about that, now we just need your majesty's approval.
Roy was growing more and more annoyed as the discussion advanced...Louis was on the same boat, only Hinata listened calmly.
But that was mainly because Luminous herself was calm.
Luminous : I see...very well, I'm intrigued by this so I will attend as demon lord Luminous Valentine for this Walpurgis.
Sealing her decision, she stood up...her gracious figurine shone brightly amidst the dark room.
Taking a step forward, she walked down the long stair leading from the throne to the door...until she stood right in front of Flora.
Luminous : It's hard to say no to a cute girl like you.
Grabbing her face with her two hands, Luminous licked her lips seductively...as for Flora, she kept a perfect smile using her skill.
But deep inside she just wanted to push the vampire away.
Flora : (Dawn-san...why !!! You know how shy I am ! So why am I the one who talks to this super scary vampire!)
Yeah...Flora is actually a shy girl, due to her origin she always took care of her appearance and had to look confident.
But in reality, she always wears a mask...it was to the point where the skill : Deceiver was given to her.
Flora : (Where is Yuu-san in moments like these...)
Silently crying, she could feel the mocking look Lucas was giving her from behind...even Shi was silently chuckling at her misery.
Luminous : (I really can't read her...this girl Flora might be even more dangerous than Dawn because of her unknown true nature...)
Flora : (Help me ! >.<)
Charging into a staring contest, it ultimately ended with Luminous's loss as she backed away with a light chuckle.
Luminous : Gunther, go contact Dawn-kun and tell him to come back in 6 days...tell him the details of this meeting too.
Gunthler : As your wish.
Bowing, the vampire butler immediately vanished to accomplish his task.
Luminous : Roy and Louis, I want both of you to look into the Clergy's recent action...report to me when you got everything.
Roy/Louis : Hai !
Finally turning toward Hinata, Luminous got an idea...
Luminous : Hinata, you will work with the Fallen light and protect the castle and church while I'm away.
Hinata : I see...
Flora : We'll do our best (Phase one completed...)
Luminous : Now that I think Fallen light doesn't suit you guys anymore...I should think about a new name, fufu.
Taking a thoughtful pose, she wasn't good at naming...well she wasn't the worst at least.
Luminous : Heh~found it~
A vile smirk as she raised her finger toward the ceiling.
Luminous : On this ordinary day, I officially announce the birth of the Genesis Knight of Ruberios.
A unit regrouping 8 people who are from an otherworldly nature.
Leader : Dawn Arceid
Member :
-First seat: Azuma Kirai, new name : Horizon White from Japan
-Second seat: Lucas Schwartz from Germany
-Third seat: Eleonor von Trinity from Great Britain
-Fourth seat: Yuu Kitanashi from Japan
-Fifth seat: ???, new name : Flora Eta Florance from ???
-Sixth seat: ???
-Seventh seat: Shi (Shizue Izawa) from Japan
Luminous : Now that everything is settled, everyone should return to their post, we are going to get really busy now.
Once again, everything seemed to interwin with the incoming Walpurgis...