More than the unstarted council meeting, the entire world was shaken by the news.
The mysterious savior—known now as the Golden Emperor—had destroyed the colossal general of the Eastern Empire, Doldrums, whose rampage could have erased entire continents.
The Cardinals World was abuzz. Rumors flew faster than armies could march.
One witness swore the Golden Emperor already commanded monsters, saints, and even fallen foes under his banner. Another claimed his charisma and leadership were proof of destiny itself.
"To some, he is the savior who will guide and protect this world… To others, he is the greatest threat it has ever known."
He possessed not only terrifying power but also a keen, calculating mind—an otherworldly presence capable of shaking the very foundation of the age.
•
Central World – Frost Palace, Ice Continent
Within the eternal halls of frost, three beings gathered before a great crystal orb, its surface rippling with visions of the Golden Emperor.
Velzard's eyes narrowed as she watched the blue-haired slime unseal her younger brother. "Ara~ Ara~… They not only destroyed that infamous general, but even awakened my little brother. What a troublesome bunch."
Leon Cromwell's expression hardened. "I always suspected he was dangerous… but this? He nearly brought unimaginable destruction, and yet—he erased it, as if it were nothing. Fortunate for us… but still dangerous."
Guy Crimson leaned lazily against the throne's arm, his crimson eyes glowing with amusement. "This world just became more interesting, don't you think, Leon-kun? A new Demon Lord rises, the fall of Doldrums, the birth of Tempest Empire in Jura… and now this Golden Emperor." His grin widened. "What is he?"
Leon studied the vision, the radiant aura surrounding Satria as he smiled. "From his light… could he be an Angel or something like that?"
"Hahahaha!" Guy burst into laughter, waving his hand dismissively. "An Angel? Please. I've known those dull, uptight creatures since before civilization existed. No, no—he's nothing like them." His voice lowered, almost hungry. "That charm, that generosity, that terrifying power… He looks so delicious~ Don't you agree, Velzard?"
The vision shifted. They watched as Satria restored forests with a wave of power, healed the wounded—including his enemies—and stood before kneeling soldiers of the Empire. "If you are truly sorry," he said calmly, cigar smoke curling around him, "then prove it. Everyone deserves a second chance—no matter your race, no matter your faith. As long as you behave, contribute to the Empire, and respect each other, you are welcome here."
The gates of the massive wall closed behind him and his companions. In that instant, the Golden Emperor's presence vanished completely—no trace remained.
Velzard's brows knit. "This is troublesome. We know nothing of them, and yet… they will certainly change the world. Are you fine with that?"
Leon's tone grew sharper. "You should be more serious. Let's start with those walls. Even Milim cannot break them. Who has the ability to build such defenses? And if their defense is this strong… imagine the weapons they keep hidden."
Guy's smirk faded into something rare—unease. "Actually… I already tried to slip inside their city. But…" His crimson eyes narrowed. "Something repelled me. It felt… divine. I even felt pain. Pain. Do you believe it? Me, Guy Crimson, burned by a fire hotter than hellfire itself."
Both Velzard and Leon froze in disbelief.
Velzard rose gracefully, stepping toward a glowing portal.
"Oi! Where are you going?" Guy asked.
"I think…" Velzard smiled faintly, "…I must visit my little brother. And this Emperor. My curiosity won't let me rest." She tapped a command into her Dimensional Chat Group, announcing her intent to visit Tempest later.
Guy's eyes widened. "What?! Wait, that woman stole the first move!" He stomped a foot like a sulking predator. "Damn it—I wanted to meet the Emperor too!!!"
•
Two days since the war ended, the long-awaited celebration was held in the grandest place possible — the Black Dragon Hotel, a luxury citadel designed and owned by Fatalis herself.
But calling it a mere hotel would be an understatement. The moment one laid eyes upon it, it was as if a myth had been reborn through technology, a dragon's fortress reshaped into a futuristic palace where guests were treated like royalty beneath the shadow of greatness.
Exterior & Atmosphere:
Dragon Guardians: Gigantic black metallic dragon statues perched upon the rooftop edges, their glowing red eyes ever-watchful, as though alive and ready to breathe fire upon any who dared approach with ill intent.
Dragon Columns: Towering structural pillars coiled with spiraling dragon engravings, their surfaces shimmering with faint embers that made them seem to breathe.
Holographic Aegis: At night, shadowy holographic dragons circled the skies above the hotel, weaving through the clouds, their roars echoing faintly like whispers from another realm.
Dragon Waterfalls: Cascading streams poured from sculpted dragon heads, giving the illusion that the hotel itself lived and breathed, its dragons exhaling crystal streams of water.
Illuminated Pools: Ponds shimmered with sapphire and gold beneath the surface, holographic dragons swimming gracefully within the depths.
Dragon Bridges: Elegant curved walkways, shaped like the spine of an ancient wyrm, guided guests across the water with majesty.
Interior Grandeur:
Lobby Dome: A celestial mural sprawled across the ceiling, a great black dragon surrounded by constellations, its wings stretching to infinity as if guarding the universe itself.
Dragon Glass Panels: Transparent walls flickered between images of scales, wings, and glowing neon dragon runes, ever-shifting like a living enchantment.
Elevators: Encased in glass and framed by obsidian dragon wings, they pulsed with a soft crimson glow as though powered by dragon fire.
Staff & Branding: Attendants dressed in futuristic uniforms laced with subtle dragon motifs welcomed each guest. The sleek emblem of the hotel — a black dragon coiled around a glowing orb — adorned every wall, every glass, every light.
The double doors opened in a flourish of black steel and molten light as Satria entered first, walking with quiet confidence. At his side and behind him trailed his complete family — Kiyohime, Fatalis, Valiana, Koneko, Kurumi, Fran, Ophis, Rimuru, Raphael, Great Red, Jeanne, Crom, and Morgan — each one dressed in dazzling attire, their elegance radiating like royalty of a new age.
The atmosphere shifted instantly; it was as if a pantheon had entered the citadel, mortals and monsters alike instinctively lowering their voices, their gazes following the radiant procession.
From Tempest, many had joined the celebration as well. Some stood in awe, wide-eyed and slack-jawed at the marvel of the Black Dragon Hotel — a world far more advanced and majestic than they had ever imagined. Even seasoned warriors and hardened travelers whispered amongst themselves, struck by the beauty and surreal grandeur.
Benimaru folded his arms, trying to look composed—but even his calm facade cracked. "...I feel like we don't belong here."
Shion's eyes darted between the glowing dragon statues and holographic sky-dragons weaving across the ceiling. "Belong? I feel like if I breathe too hard, I'll break something worth more than my life!"
Shuna tugged nervously at her dress, cheeks pink. "This place… it's too dazzling. I feel underdressed just standing here…"
Souei's eyes flicked across the shimmering murals and neon runes. Even his stoic mask faltered with a twitch. "…Unsettling. Every corner screams luxury beyond comprehension. We… are out of place."
Hakurou stroked his beard thoughtfully, pretending dignity, but his eyes betrayed awe. "In all my years… not even the palaces of kings compared to this."
Gobta was already trembling. "I-I think if I sit on the wrong chair, I'll owe my soul in debt!"
Gabiru puffed up his chest, only for his voice to crack. "Y-Yes, indeed! Such a place is… clearly unworthy of a Dragonewt Prince like m-myself…!" His tail betrayed him, wagging furiously.
Geld simply shook his head. "This level of craftsmanship… even the dwarves would faint."
Meanwhile, Milim sparkled like a child in a candy store. "This is awesome!! It's like walking into a dragon's castle from a fantasy world!"
Robin, by contrast, pinched the bridge of his nose. "Damn... Just how much money did they sink into this?"
Ruby twirled with a grin, her cloak flaring. "Heehee! Shiny dragons, glowing walls, luxury everywhere—this is totally my vibe! I'd never check out if I lived here!"
Veldora threw his head back with booming laughter. "Bwahahaha!!! Finally, a place worthy of my greatness!"
Fatalis, however, only blinked, arms crossed. "Huh? What's with all the fuss? This is just… a normal hotel in our world. Right, Rimuru-chan?"
Rimuru spun toward her, flailing. "Normal?! I've never been in a place this fancy in my entire life! Normal hotel my ass! How did you even build all this so fast?!"
Fatalis smirked. "Thanks to my husband's memory, investment, and connections. Plus, with magic, AI, and workers like orcs, dwarves, Androids, and Nyx—you get faster results than any human labor. Scary, isn't it? The perfect marriage of science and sorcery."
Satria tilted his head at Rimuru, giving her a pitying look. "Hmm… You've really never been to a hotel like this? Not even once, my dear?"
"Don't look at me with that face!" Rimuru puffed her cheeks. "I was a busy salaryman, alright? No time for pleasure trips. And what about you, huh?"
Satria shrugged as if it were nothing. "Well… I once visited a six-star hotel in Dubai with my family. The interior was… close to this."
Rimuru's body wobbled with disbelief. "You've gotta be kidding me… Don't tell me—you were some kind of crazy rich or sultan in your past life?! Forgive me, this humble commoner knowledge cannot keep up!" She puffed her cheeks harder, practically vibrating in jealousy.
Satria scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Oi, don't get it twisted. My family was rich, not me. You know what my allowance was in my school days? Fifteen to twenty-five thousand rupiah a day. Convert that to yen or dollars—only enough for street food."
Kurumi chuckled softly behind her hand, her eyes glinting. "Ara~ how tragic. But at least your parents raised you well. No spoiled prince just a little troublemaker streak left over."
"Hey!" Satria protested, but Rimuru couldn't help snickering.
Great Red winked at Fatalis. She caught the signal instantly, her lips curling into a sly smile as if sharing a secret only they understood.
Crom nearly burst out laughing when he spotted Jeanne's red face. The saint was trembling, clutching her chest, while Koneko gently took her hand.
"It's okay, Jeanne-san," Koneko said softly, her catlike calmness soothing the flustered girl. "The faster it happens, the better. Trust me—you'll be happy. Just like us."
"M-Me… with Master…" Jeanne whispered, her imagination running wild. Her mind instantly conjured the image of herself cuddling in Satria's arms, warmth and safety surrounding her. Her blush deepened until she looked ready to faint.
Meanwhile, Morgan stiffened when she felt a pair of slender arms snake around her waist.
"W-What are you doing, Master…?" she muttered, her pale cheeks dusted pink. She tried to avert her eyes, but the closeness of her "tormentor" left her trembling.
Kurumi only giggled, leaning her face against Morgan's with impish delight. "You're so cute when you're flustered~. I couldn't resist."
"People will be misunderstood us…" Morgan protested weakly, her hands hovering uncertainly as though deciding between pushing Kurumi away or… holding her closer.
Kurumi tilted her head, lips brushing dangerously close to Morgan's ear. Her voice melted into a whisper. "Let them be. I don't care, as long as I can stay like this with you. Hey… why don't you join our family too? Hmm? What do you say?"
"I…" Morgan's breath caught.
Before she could finish, Fatalis's voice cut through like a blade. "So… are we packing the Ice Queen too? Make up your mind, ladies. Quickly."
Kurumi puffed her cheeks, turning the puppy-dog eyes toward Morgan.
Morgan hesitated only a moment longer, then slowly nodded. "O-Okay… but don't misunderstand. I only agree… because I want to stay at my Master's side forever. Nothing more."
"What the hell are you two doing?" Satria's exasperated voice rang out as he glanced at the scene of blushing cheeks and secret smiles. "I don't know why, but I feel like you girls are plotting something behind my back."
"Ignore them, husband." Raphael slipped into place on his left side, clinging to his arm with serene devotion. "We only want what's best for you."
"Raphael-san is right, Danna-sama." Kiyohime echoed from his right, pressing close with a bright, adoring smile.
Fatalis, however, ignored the banter. Her scarlet eyes gleamed with command as she raised a hand to her earpiece. Her tone shifted to one of calm authority.
"Activate Dragon Protocol. Priority VVIP. All systems—prepare for Royal Wedding Ceremony."
The Black Dragon Hotel instantly responded. Crystalline walls pulsed with light, runes flickered to life, and the entire structure thrummed like a living being preparing to host destiny itself.
With a single sweep of her hand across the holographic console, Fatalis initiated the transformation.
The Sky Garden Pavilion stirred like a living being. Walls slid open with a whisper, unveiling a breathtaking panorama of the glittering city below. The vast artificial waterfall reconfigured, its cascades turning into streams of molten gold, shimmering like liquid sunlight.
Above, holographic cherry blossoms unfurled in full bloom. Petals drifted endlessly through the air, carried by a digital breeze, blurring the line between illusion and reality.
Fatalis's voice carried authority as she issued instructions to the Pavilion's AI concierge. In an instant, her will spread through every system:
— Chefs raced to their stations, crafting royal banquets of fusion delicacies that fused East and West, tradition and innovation.
— Florists and designers synchronized real blossoms with holographic overlays, creating a living dreamscape.
— Security tightened, aerial drones hovering unseen while hidden guards moved into position, ensuring no one would dare disrupt the event.
Satria watched the spectacle unfold, his nerves growing with each passing second. "What the hell is going on?! I know you girls are up to something!"
Fatalis turned to him, her smile serene, her scarlet eyes radiating calm. "Do not worry, my dear. Tonight, the Black Dragon watches over you. This will not simply be a wedding… it will be a legend."
"W–Wedding? For who?" Satria's voice cracked with confusion, but no one answered. His protest was drowned beneath the Pavilion's radiant hum.
Meanwhile, the brides were gathered. One by one, they were teleported before a towering mirror, their faces a mix of awe and disbelief. They hadn't prepared for this, yet the Pavilion had already done the impossible.
Nanofabric wedding gowns unfolded themselves, weaving around each bride's form like liquid starlight, reshaping to perfection in seconds. Stylists directed by the Pavilion's system worked with supernatural speed, leaving not a single flaw.
One by one, the brides stepped forward.
First came Rimuru and Raphael, radiant in elegant Japanese attire, their forms glowing faintly with divine aura. They carried themselves with serene grace, though Rimuru gave Satria a cheeky smirk that didn't help his nerves.
Then Great Red, striding proudly in her dazzling white Kebaya, looking both regal and mischievous. "Hooo, you're finally looking my way, Satria~. Surprised?"
Next, Morgan and Jeanne, their Western gowns shimmering like twin goddesses, both flustered but resolute. Jeanne's blush could have powered the entire Pavilion, while Morgan turned her face aside, muttering, "Don't misunderstand… this is only because they insisted."
Satria's jaw dropped so far it nearly hit the floor. "W–wait. WAIT. Don't tell me—YOU'RE the brides?! ALL of you?!"
Kurumi peeked out from behind Morgan with a wicked grin, hugging her from behind. "Ara~? Finally figured it out, Darling? Took you long enough."
Ophis leaned against him possessively, whispering sweetly, "My mate, you mustn't struggle. It is already decided."
Fatalis stood at the center, watching his panic with the calm of a commander who had already won the war. "Do not resist, dear. This night is beyond your control. You will stand at the altar, and you will make history."
Satria staggered back, clutching his head. "Wha—This… This is insane! No one discussed to me about this—HEY, STOP SMILING LIKE THAT! Why are you all blushing?! And Morgan, you too?! I thought you were just—"
Morgan, strict as ever, gave the tiniest smile. "As I said before… everything I do is for my Master's sake, you stupid husband of mine."
"Who are you calling stupid?! Yet... You agree to marry this stupid!" Satria shouted, his voice cracking.
The brides only giggled softly, their gazes united, their dresses glowing beneath the golden cascade of the Pavilion.
The Pavilion bloomed with radiance, petals drifting endlessly, light cascading like liquid gold. Guests had gathered expecting a grand feast, a normal celebration… but when the altar rose from the center stage, when the brides appeared in their gowns, the atmosphere shifted into pure shock.
"W–wedding?! All of a sudden?!" Shuna gasped, nearly spilling her drink.
"Hahaha! That suits you, Satria — and Rimuru too!" Veldora roared with laughter, raising his cup like a king. "Very well then! Veldora the Storm Dragon blesses this marriage with thunder and joy!"
Milim blinked, tilting her head with childlike curiosity. "Wedding? What's a wedding?"
Beside her, Robin stiffened, beads of sweat rolling down his face. "Ehmm… it's when one or, uh… in this case many… pledge their love to one very special person."
Milim's eyes sparkled. "Ooooh~! Sounds fun! Then Satria will be everyone's special person? Lucky him!"
Satria, meanwhile, was anything but lucky. He stood frozen in front of the altar, sweating bullets as the brides drew closer.
Rimuru smirked, her Japanese robes fluttering as if the air itself favored her. "Oi, Satria. You're already turning red. Don't tell me you're shy now?"
"Sh–shut up!" Satria snapped, his voice cracking. "This wasn't in the plan—there was no plan at all!"
Great Red twirled in her Kebaya, dazzling and proud. "Fufu~ You should be honored. Do you know how many realms would fight for the chance to marry me? And yet here you are, looking like you might faint."
Morgan, flustered but resolute, lifted her veil just enough to glare at him. "Hmph… stop making that pathetic face. I didn't go through all this humiliation just for you to run away, stupid husband."
"Stop calling me stupid!" Satria stammered, his knees weak.
From behind Morgan, Kurumi hugged her tightly, giggling with devilish delight. "Ara~? Look at him panic. How cute. I almost want to let him squirm more before we seal the deal."
Jeanne pressed her hands together nervously, cheeks burning bright. "M–Master… you truly have no idea how many of us dreamed of this moment…"
Raphael, radiant and serene at the center, stepped forward like a goddess presiding over destiny itself. Her scarlet eyes locked onto him, her words cutting like a decree. "Dear… stop trembling. We has already decided. Tonight, you will stand as husband to us and nothing will change that."
The crowd gasped, murmured, and laughed nervously, the Pavilion alive with disbelief and awe.
And there, in front of them all, Satria, the man who had fought gods, titans, and nightmares realized this was the one battlefield where he was utterly doomed.
"Why… why does this feel scarier than fighting a Titan…?" he muttered, face red, as the brides giggled and reached for his hands.
•
The aftermath of the night looked like a battlefield of a different kind. Clothes, stockings, and heels were scattered across the floor like fallen banners. On the bed and even on the carpet, several of Satria's wives lay in disarray, their flushed faces and trembling bodies testifying to his… overwhelming dominance.
Satria himself sat at the center of it all, on the edge of the grand bed, bathed in a dramatic shaft of light from the window. His calm posture radiated intimidation and authority.
Morgan clutched at the sheets, still breathless, her pride crumbling under the weight of humiliation. "Y-You… monster… Are you truly human…?!"
Kurumi giggled, stretching lazily as if mocking her. "See? That's why I said sharing was the only option. You thought you could handle him alone, Queen of Fae? Fufu~ but don't lie to me… you enjoyed every second."
Morgan's face burned crimson. She looked away, refusing to answer, but her silence betrayed her.
Satria tilted his head, lips curling into a smug grin. "Monster, huh? Hah! You're the first one to call me that after the fact. Hahahaha! How about you, Red—are you done?"
Great Red lay sprawled out, her mighty aura nowhere to be seen, body trembling as she forced her voice through weak breaths. "D-Don't… think I'd… break that easily… you underestimate me…"
Satria chuckled, his tone low and mocking. "Heh. Bold words for someone who can't even lift her head. But fine—I'll give you credit for spirit."
On the far side, Jeanne stirred under the sheets. Still flushed, her hair a tangle of gold, she greeted him softly. "Good morning, Master…" She pulled the bedsheet up, but it only slipped to reveal her collarbone and the curve of her shoulder.
"Morning, Jeanne." Satria reached over, brushing her hair back and patting her head gently. "How do you feel?"
Her lips curved into a shy, blissful smile. "I feel… so good. Thank you… for taking this lascivious saint as your bride."
Before Satria could answer, Rimuru s suddenly shot up, eyes gleaming with dangerous hunger. "Good morning? Hah, screw that. Let's continue where we left off. My ass, my pussy, my everything… they're begging for you."
Raphael licked her lips with a sultry grin. "Hubby, look at this… your cock's still hard, still monstrous. It's practically begging to ruin us all over again."
Kiyohime snapped upright, puffing her cheeks in jealousy. "Stop monopolizing Danna-sama! Did it never occur to you to invite me?"
Rimuru and Raphael exchanged wicked grins. Without warning, they pressed against Kiyohime from both sides, sandwiching the jealous dragoness.
"No complaints now, right?" Rimuru purred.
The air shifted as the bathroom door slid open. Steam drifted out, followed by the sound of light steps. Fran emerged, her hair damp and tail swaying lazily, clad in simple pale-blue pajamas. Droplets glittered on her soft skin under the morning light. She rubbed her hair with a towel, blinking at the sight of the chaos before her.
Her husband waved casually. She blinked once, then gave him a sleepy smile that melted all tension. "Good morning." Her voice carried the gentle warmth of someone who saw the insanity, yet accepted it. "Are you ladies… not done yet? Don't forget… someone dangerous is coming to visit us today."
"…Velzard," Kurumi muttered, sitting up straighter. The name alone chilled the room.
Fatalis, lounging smugly on the sofa with no clothes whatsoever, smirked. "Indeed. After seeing Veldora's reaction just hearing her name, we'd better not piss her off."
Koneko crossed her legs next to Ophis, arms folded with a knowing smirk. "Considering our husband's personality, I think that's impossible."
"Hm. True," Ophis mumbled sleepily, resting against the pillow.
Valiana wrapped her arms around Satria from behind, pressing herself to him. "Another dragon, eh~? How fun. I hope she's as strong as the rumors say."
Rimuru frowned, genuine worry flickering in her eyes. "Are we sure it's wise to let someone that dangerous in? Even if she's part of your Group… if even Veldora's terrified…" She looked to Satria. "What do you think?"
Satria raised a brow, voice dripping with mischief. "Eh? Why you girls talking like you aren't dangerous women yourselves?"
The entire room went silent. Then a collective vein popped across their foreheads.
"…Did this idiot just put us all in the same category as her?" Rimuru growled.
"Indeed," Raphael said coldly, her gaze sharp as ice. "Hubby… it's unwise to lump fragile young maidens like us together in such categories."
Fran tilted her head, eyes narrowing slightly. "I agree… My Lord, how should we discipline you?"
Valiana smirked darkly. "Discipline's too soft. punishment, at the very least."
Even Jeanne, usually serene, narrowed her eyes in a way that reminded Satria eerily of Jalter. "Yes… Master needs a lesson."
"Wait, wait, hold on!" Satria threw his hands up, laughing nervously. "That's not what I meant! You've got it all wrong—AHHHH!!"
The wives advanced as one, predatory smiles blooming across their faces.
To be continued...