Over the following days, Rimuru explored the cave system, testing his abilities on the various monsters that dwelled in the depths. With his unlimited magicules and careful control, he made sure to use only a fraction of his true power—after all, he could probably destroy the world if he wasn't careful.
Each monster he consumed with Predator granted him new abilities and insights. A bat gave him echolocation and flight capabilities, various insects provided enhanced sensory abilities, and magical creatures added to his growing repertoire of spells and resistances.
"Raphael," he said after consuming a particularly interesting crystal formation, "can you create a detailed map showing me the route out of this cave system and through the Jura Forest?"
**Confirmed. Analyzing cave structure and accessing inherited memories from consumed creatures. Map creation complete.**
A three-dimensional map appeared in his consciousness, showing not just the path out, but marking various monster territories, resource locations, and potential dangers.
"Perfect. Let's head out—I have goblin friends to meet."
The journey through the cave took several days, but eventually, Rimuru saw genuine sunlight filtering through an opening ahead. When he emerged from the cave, the Great Jura Forest spread before him in all its magnificent, dangerous glory.
Following Raphael's guidance, Rimuru made his way through the forest. His timing had been deliberately calculated—he wanted to reach the goblin village before the dire wolf crisis began, giving him more control over how events would unfold.
Sure enough, after several hours of travel, he encountered a scouting party of goblins who immediately prostrated themselves upon sensing his aura.
"Great and powerful being!" squeaked the lead goblin. "We can sense your incredible presence! Please, we mean no harm!"
"Easy there," Rimuru said gently, taking on a more humanoid slime form. "I'm Rimuru. I'm not here to hurt anyone."
The goblins looked up in amazement. "Lord Rimuru, our village is in great danger! Please, would you consider visiting our elder? We desperately need guidance!"
"I'd be happy to help," Rimuru replied. As they led him toward their village, he asked, "Tell me about this danger you mentioned."
"The dire wolves, my lord," the goblin explained fearfully. "Our scouts report they've been growing more aggressive lately. We fear they may attack soon!"
**Master,** Raphael's voice whispered in his mind, **based on current territorial patterns and seasonal behavior, the dire wolf pack will arrive at the goblin village in approximately four months.**
Perfect timing, Rimuru thought. His early emergence from the cave had given him a buffer period to prepare.
When they reached the goblin village, the elder immediately fell to his knees. "Great spirit, our village faces extinction! Please, become our leader and guide us!"
Rimuru looked around at the desperate faces of the goblins—men, women, and children all living in fear. His heart went out to them.
"I accept," he said solemnly. "I'll help protect your village and guide you to a better future."