Even after the Reception Ceremony, my schedule remained packed.
This time, I had to personally greet the distinguished guests arriving from various nations. Representatives were stepping into our city one after another, each clad in attire that marked their status and origin.
I had heard that some early arrivals had already stayed here for days. Not only the invited dignitaries, but also merchants who caught wind of the festival were visiting, making the streets alive with chatter and activity. Locals proudly guided newcomers through the city, showing off our culture and innovations.
The royals and prominent figures from other lands observed everything with curiosity, marveling at the novelty of what Eterna had to offer. From what I could see, our strategy to make this land a prime destination for visitors was unfolding successfully.
Yet, there were practical limits. Our city could host no more than three thousand nobles comfortably, while the common folk could be accommodated up to ten thousand. However, the high-class facilities were far fewer and far more intricate.
Catering to royalty required far more than meals and lodging. Entertainment had to be exquisite, security rigorous, and living spaces ample and private. Every detail mattered. For this reason, our focus this time was solely on nobles and royalty.
Even if wealthy merchants offered huge sums to stay in our exclusive quarters, we politely declined.
Fortunately, I had Myourmiles handling the logistics. He had anticipated potential complaints, even reserving rooms for affluent visitors who weren't technically invited.
"Amazing," I said, nodding with approval. "As expected from you, Myourmiles."
He bowed slightly, a modest smile on his face. "Hehehe. Atem-sama, this is nothing. All credit goes to Rigurd's achievements and the team in the city. They handled every detail with care and courtesy."
His reliability was evident. While Rigurd's subordinates performed admirably, the smooth reception without complaint was largely due to Myourmiles' foresight and management.
"The harmony of everyone's effort," I continued, voice calm but commanding, "is what ensures this event begins successfully. Do not let this momentum falter."
"You have my word, Atem-sama," Myourmiles replied with a confident grin. "I will see this through flawlessly."
The location was the conference room.
Shuna and Shion were busy preparing various things in advance, arranging meals and seating for the numerous guests. Gabil and Kurobee were making their final rounds, inspecting the exhibitions to ensure everything was perfect.
We weren't receiving monsters this time, so the presence of the executive officers could be limited. Unlike the reception ceremony, there was no strict hierarchy to observe, which made the atmosphere far less tense.
I, of course, greeted the guests in my human form. For such an occasion, displaying authority, poise, and the appearance of power was essential.
Frankly, it was inconvenient. Slime form was infinitely more comfortable, but for this purpose, I had no choice.
With that done, I successfully welcomed the royals and nobles from the Western Nations.
As this progressed, the King of Blumund arrived to meet me. As always, he carried the presence of a fairytale monarch—gracious, composed, yet unmistakably powerful. At his side was a queen who appeared eternally youthful. Though they had been married for twenty years, their image conveyed the adoration of their people, admired for their genuine affection.
"I apologize for taking so long to show my gratitude," he began. "Appeasing the Farmus nobles, Marquis Müller and Earl Hermann, and prompting the Freedom Association along with the Western Holy Church to act has greatly benefited our nation."
His support had allowed Fuze to operate freely, and our plans had succeeded because of the trust placed in our contracts. The increase in merchants visiting our lands demonstrated just how influential the Kingdom of Blumund truly was.
As I expressed my gratitude, the King shook my hand with a smile.
"You're welcome, Atem-sama," he said, his tone measured, "there is no need for thanks. I merely honored our agreement. You've also heard from Fuze, correct? I placed my trust entirely in your hands, betting our fortune on this country. And yes, there were profits involved in that bet—so gratitude is unnecessary."
A good man, certainly, but one not to be underestimated. He spoke with the candor of someone used to wielding power, yet maintained a calm authority.
"I am, nonetheless, grateful for your trust," I replied firmly. Expressing acknowledgment and respect is necessary, even to allies of such caliber.
The King's smile softened, yet his eyes remained sharp. "I cannot help but wonder whether you truly are a demon lord."
His gaze then turned serious, piercing straight into mine. "I understand Kazak from our country has caused you trouble recently. It is a relief your people were rescued."
He referred to Viscount Kazak and the incidents in the Great Forest of Jura, events predating my rise as demon lord. While the kingdom bore little responsibility, Kazak's actions had been reprehensible, claiming that he had free rein to harm "lowly monsters" without consequence.
"Insofar as the problem has been resolved safely, we do not intend to escalate the matter," I said evenly.
"That is appreciated," he replied. "And what of Viscount Kazak himself?"
As long as Kazak retained his noble title under Blumund law, direct punishment by our nation was impossible. Yet leaving him unpunished was unacceptable. I awaited the King's judgment, and he responded with a voice that brooked no compromise.
"Kazak is a Viscount," he stated. "His conduct—assisting criminal organizations and abandoning his duties—cannot be tolerated. We have stripped him of his title and wealth, exiling him from Blumund. In truth, his entire family bears the consequences."
This was a fitting resolution. Harsh, yes, but the crime of slave trading and collusion with criminals demanded a severe response. Kazak would struggle to adapt to a life stripped of privilege, yet survival offered the chance for redemption.
"I understand. I shall consider this punishment suitable for his actions," I said firmly.
The King's expression eased slightly. "It is reassuring to hear you say that. Then we may consider the agreements between our nations upheld?"
"Indeed. Eterna shall continue to honor this accord."
He nodded. "Then I place my country in your care from this point forward."
We shook hands firmly, sealing the understanding between Eterna and Blumund. With this, the matter was concluded.
After the discussion about Kazak was concluded, we moved on to the main topic.
The King of Blumund put on a composed yet pleasant smile, cutting straight to the point. "By the way, Atem-sama, I heard back from Fuze. He mentioned you have a grand plan in motion?"
It was clear he had already received a detailed account from Fuze.
"This isn't something that will involve only Eterna and your kingdom," I explained evenly, my voice carrying authority. "We need to gather representatives from all the countries involved and hold a formal meeting. I considered presenting the plan to the other nations directly, but—"
"Hohoho," the King interjected with a knowing chuckle, "you are cautious. I did hear a brief outline from Fuze, but leaving this entirely to civil servants could put us in a difficult position."
"Then perhaps a small step—"
I kept my explanation concise, revealing only that I intended to make the Kingdom of Blumund the logistics hub for the broader initiative.
"—Indeed. So that is the plan," the King mused, leaning back slightly.
"Sire, we must pursue this plan despite the difficulties it entails," I stated firmly, my tone leaving no room for doubt.
Even with my limited explanation, the King's eyes shifted. A spark of ambition flared within them, reflecting the calculation and decisiveness he was known for. Beside him, the Queen, previously composed and quiet, betrayed a subtle excitement. Her mind, no doubt, was running the numbers on the potential gains and advantages of the plan.
It struck me then: more than just the King, the Queen's insight and sharpness made Blumund formidable despite its size.
"We shall finalize discussions after the Founding Festival concludes, in three days' time," the King said, voice steady yet carrying weight.
"If that is so, there is little to worry about," I replied. "Even now, the city thrives before the festival has truly begun. This plan will require consensus among the other nations, and we will ensure public support within Eterna to prepare for that."
"Hmm," the King nodded approvingly. "My Queen is correct. Atem-sama, it is reassuring to hear such news. We shall take our leave, then."
"We wish you success with the Founding Festival," the Queen added in unison with him, standing gracefully.
The nobles circulating around the room paid little attention beyond their own discussions. Their purpose in meeting me was now complete, and it was easy to see they had no further business.
"Please enjoy your stay in our kingdom," I said, inclining my head with measured authority.
"I will do so," the King replied.
"Yes," the Queen added, her tone carrying quiet expectation, "I have high hopes."
With that, they departed, leaving a sense of resolution in the air. Their words lingered, carrying both trust and anticipation.