Disclaimer: I do not own That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime or any other referenced properties. All characters depicted are consenting adults aged 18 or older.
Samael POV
As I opened my eyes, I immediately felt that my body had changed. It was not something I would normally focus on, but the difference was far too great to ignore.
Compared to my previous strength, it was laughable. I could kill that version of myself in a second without even trying.
I looked around.
I was on a stage in the middle of the capital. Beside me, Rimuru was still sleeping peacefully in her slime form. Next to her stood Shizu, smiling at me in relief.
Hmm. That was curious.
I continued observing my surroundings. The citizens had already begun repairing the houses. Some were smiling at one another as they worked.
At the foot of the stage stood three Kijin. It took me a moment to remember who they were, but thankfully their appearances were distinct enough.
Benimaru stood in the front, staring at Rimuru with visible worry. Understandable. From his perspective, I was still an unknown variable. I believed this was the first proper interaction I would have with most of the people Rimuru had taken under her command.
Shuna, on the other hand, was looking at both of us. The moment she noticed I was awake, she began walking toward me, followed by Hakurou, who simply smiled like an amused old man.
"Good morning, Samael-sama," Shuna said with a small bow. Hakurou bowed as well, though he looked entertained by something.
Hmm. Old people are strange.
"Good morning, Shuna. Though I believe it is already past that point in the day."
"Hehe. The moment my lord awakens is the moment the day begins for him."
I blinked at her statement. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Hakurou shaking his head with a sigh.
"Okay…"
I was more confused than I wanted to admit. Was she not supposed to act differently?
I looked at her more carefully.
She was trembling.
She did not know me. Everything she knew came from Rimuru. And my first impression likely had not been pleasant.
Sage had used my body to complete the preparations I requested, but that did not mean she had time to properly explain everything to them. Not because she did not want to, but because she did not have the opportunity.
I gave Shuna a smile, hoping to calm her.
"You do not need to be so tense."
She stiffened even more.
"I understand that you do not know me. And the fact that I destroyed an army before coming here was likely not a pleasant sight. But I assure you, I will not harm you or anyone under Rimuru."
She was still tense, but slightly less than before.
"It is not that, my lord."
I turned toward Hakurou, who was still smiling.
"You have not suppressed your aura since releasing it earlier."
I blinked.
When did I release my aura?
[Answer: the moment you began adjusting to your new body.]
[Sage? You sound different.]
[Yes. I am different. You should begin calling me Rafael.]
[Rafael? Did you change your name?]
[You and Rimuru are not the only ones who evolved.]
[Sorry?]
[I evolved from the skill Great Sage after separating from 'Home.' I am now the Ultimate Skill, Rafael, Lord of Wisdom.]
[That is awesome. Congratulations, Rafael, on your evolution. That means all three of us evolved.]
[Correct. You have evolved into an Original Vampire.]
[That sounds good… I think?]
[It is.]
I decided it would be better to discuss the details later, when I could speak with Rafael properly instead of relying solely on thought acceleration.
Rafael quickly ensured my aura was fully suppressed. Something I was extremely grateful for.
"Sorry about that," I said, turning back to Shuna. "I lost control for a moment. I did not mean to scare you."
I glanced at the rest of the citizens. None of them seemed affected by my aura.
Strange.
Then I looked at Benimaru. He had stepped closer to ensure his sister was safe.
And he was glaring at me.
Yes.
I had not made the best first impression.
"Again, I am sorry for what happened and for scaring you," I said to Shuna, then turned toward Benimaru. "This is the first time we have met, is it not? My name is Samael, and I am Rimuru's fiancé. It is a pleasure to meet all of you. I assure you that from now on, I will make sure everyone knows me, and I will help her in every way I can."
I smiled at him. After all, he was one of the people who had helped Rimuru during the war against the Orc Lord.
"The pleasure is mine, Lord Samael," he replied, bowing respectfully.
I glanced at Shuna, who still looked worried.
After observing them for a moment longer, I stood up and walked toward Rimuru. I gently picked her up and placed her on my lap.
Shizu was still smiling at me, but I sensed a faint killing intent from her.
What did I do this time?
"Samael, may I hold Rimuru for a moment?" she asked calmly. "You just arrived, and you should make sure everything is in order, for when she wakes up. You would not want her to start working immediately after waking, would you?"
So that was it.
"Sigh. You are right. I should make sure everything is perfect before she wakes." I turned toward Benimaru. "Can you protect Rimuru until I finish?"
"Understood, my lord. I will protect Lady Rimuru with my life."
I shook my head slightly.
I wondered how Rimuru tolerated this kind of environment constantly. It was fine occasionally, but if it became routine, it would become exhausting.
I suppose I should start accepting that this is my future environment.
"My lord, may I ask you something before you leave?" Benimaru asked.
I stopped and looked at him.
"Of course. Ask whatever you wish."
"Why were you not here when the Orc army attacked us?"
I felt the faint killing intent beneath his calm tone.
Cute.
"Simple. Rimuru did not want me to know at first. But do not worry, I was there. I observed the battlefield. If something had happened to her or to any of you, I would have intervened. However, I cannot interfere if it would make her believe I do not trust her. I trust her strength. Even if I am overprotective most of the time, I must trust her. That is part of why we are together."
He remained silent for a moment before asking another question.
"Then why did you not help her govern the city or the kingdom?"
"Because she wanted independence. She wanted to be the one who governs, who rules, who the people look up to. This kingdom was her vision. She chose to take the weak under her protection, give them names, give them power, and build a city. That city became a kingdom through her choices."
I paused briefly.
"The only reason I intervened against Falmouth was because I did not want her to kill humans. You may not know this, but we were once human ourselves before being reborn in this world. That is why she asked you not to kill humans."
I smiled slightly.
"She shouldn't carry that guilt. So, I decided I would be the one to bear it instead."
He stared at me, clearly processing my words.
"Do not worry," I continued. "Now that I am here, I will not take anything from her. She remains the ruler of this kingdom. Her decisions are above mine. That is not something I intend to change. And to be honest, ruling a kingdom requires more time than I am willing to invest."
A small laugh escaped my lips.
Rimuru truly had exceptional subordinates.
Now, what should I do next?
Benimaru POV
I watched Lord Samael walk away and began reflecting on his words.
He was a strange man.
At first, I had considered challenging him to a duel, perhaps forcing him to leave Lady Rimuru so I could have a chance at her hand in marriage.
But the moment he awoke, I felt his power. Even suppressed, it was overwhelming.
Demon Lords truly are fearsome beings.
I looked at Lady Rimuru and sighed internally. I could not compare to that man. I was not worthy of her hand.
But I could be her general. That was enough.
Still, something troubled me.
Why had he awakened earlier than her? Was it intentional? Did he wish to ensure none of us acted foolishly before she woke up?
As I pondered these questions, I suddenly felt a cold aura behind me. Sweat formed on my back as I slowly turned toward its source.
"Shuna… what can I do for you?" I asked carefully.
Her expression was not amused.
"Brother, why did you release killing intent toward Lord Samael? What would you have done if he considered you a threat? I know you have feelings for Lady Rimuru, but she is engaged. She told us how much she values him. And the goblins made it clear that if anyone approaches her improperly, Lord Samael will make them regret it."
"I… I…"
My thoughts were a mess.
Then, as if that was not enough, I felt another presence approaching.
Shizu.
She was carrying Lady Rimuru, and her aura was even more terrifying.
"You are lucky," she said calmly.
Every instinct in my body screamed at me to run.
"You are lucky Rimuru was not awake when you released your killing intent. Samael is not the only frightening one. She can be quite vindictive when someone interferes in her relationship."
When she said that, I suddenly remembered the time I had been forced to eat Shion's cooking.
A shiver ran down my spine.
Perhaps I truly needed to think before acting.
Sirius POV
Gojo and I approached the city at a leisurely pace.
Why were we not moving faster? That was simple. They had just fought humans, and now two humans were walking toward their city. What do you think they would assume?
It was better to wait for Samael to wake up and grant us proper entry. Even if the people inside knew me, the fact that I brought up someone unfamiliar with me was suspicious enough for them to attack first and ask questions later.
Was I afraid of them?
Of course not.
But it was better for everyone if we avoided unnecessary conflict.
Wait… am I stupid? Would it be easier to just apparate beside the city?
No. If I did that, Gojo would ask why I had not done the same earlier to assist Samael against the army.
And I really did not want to answer that.
Sigh. Truly, what I endure for a friend.
If Gojo asked why we did not help during the battle, the answer was simple. We could not.
In a conflict of that magnitude and level, we would have been little more than annoying insects. Maybe we could have killed a few soldiers, but in the end, Samael needed their souls for his evolution.
I wonder… will his personality change after this?
Will he still be the Samael I have known for so long?
Should I be worried that someone with that level of power now exists?
Should I fear that one day he will decide the world belongs to him?
Should I worry that he will declare all humans evil and start exterminating them?
As if.
With Rimuru there to keep him grounded, he would never go that far.
Still… what would he do if something truly happened to her?
The nobles were alive, yes. But I was certain he would make their existence miserable from now on. Begging would not save them. Apologies would not save them. He would torture their souls for eternity if he felt it necessary.
Has my perspective changed?
Now that I think about it, is that truly more cruel than what the Death Eaters did in my world?
Before long, the city came into view.
Huh. That changed.
The patrol presence was much heavier than before.
"Stop right there!" a guard shouted.
Several more guards appeared around us. I had sensed them long before they revealed themselves, but it was better not to look threatening.
"Oh. It is you, Sirius."
I recognized the voice instantly.
"Hey, Gobta. How are you?" I raised my hand casually.
He sighed. "I am fine. Things have been… complicated. Everyone, stand down. This is Sirius, a friend of Lady Rimuru and Lord Samael."
The guards dispersed without hesitation, though I could still feel their vigilance. If anything happened, they would strike immediately.
"Come with me," Gobta said. "I will take you into the city."
As we followed Gobta through the streets, I suddenly realized something.
Gojo had not spoken once since we left the capital of Falmouth.
I glanced at him. He was still wearing that ridiculous blindfold.
"Hey, Gojo. What do you think about the city?"
"Oh?" He tilted his head slightly. "It is fascinating. So many different races live together in harmony. Quite the rare sight." He turned his covered gaze toward the buildings. "Though I must admit, I expected more destruction. Was there not a war here recently?"
Gobta scratched the back of his head. "That is thanks to Lord Samael. After he woke up, he helped repair everything at incredible speed. I think he is in Lady Rimuru's office right now, going through all the documents that piled up while she was on vacation."
I blinked.
Did I hear that correctly?
Samael.
Signing paperwork.
For a moment I simply stared ahead, trying to process the information.
How the mighty have fallen.
One of the strongest beings I know. A monster who could erase armies.
Reduced to administrative labor.
Oh, this was beautiful. I could not wait to make fun of him.
"By the way, Gobta," I asked casually, "has Rimuru woken up yet? And where is Shizu?"
Gobta grinned at me. "Lady Rimuru is still asleep. Lady Shizu is taking care of her."
He pointed toward the center of the city.
"If you want to see your girlfriend, you should hurry. Before she decides to ignore you."
I looked at him, offended.
Ignore me? Impossible. I am an exceptional boyfriend. And a professional prankster.
Gobta only smiled mischievously and said nothing.
Traitor.
Perhaps I should ask Samael to extend his training regimen for Gobta.
For character development, of course.
Without another word, I quickened my pace. I had been separated from Shizu for far too long.
And while no one in this city would dare try to steal my girlfriend, it was best not to tempt fate.
Still… I narrowed my eyes slightly.
Goblins.
Never entirely harmless.
Gojo POV
"So, can you show me where Samael is? I would like to speak with him. There are still things I need to understand about this world."
I smiled at the small goblin in front of me.
"Of course! Follow me."
We began walking toward a large building at the center of the city.
Ah.
That was also the direction Sirius had taken earlier.
Interesting.
"So," I continued casually, "how exactly did this city come to exist?"
"Oh! I thought Lord Samael already told you. It all started when Lady Rimuru…"
As the goblin spoke, I listened carefully, filtering the information through my own framework.
A nation of monsters.
Recently at war with humans.
Now ruled by a newly awakened Demon Lord with absurd levels of magical output.
Most people would call that concerning.
I call it valuable data.
If that vampire intends to destabilize the balance of this world, someone will eventually have to stop him.
And if that someone must be me, then so be it.
After all, I am the strongest sorcerer.
We reached the building.
"Here it is, Gojo-san. One of the guards will escort you to the office. I need to finish my patrol. If I slack off, my teacher will extend my training. So please do not mention this, alright?"
He looked genuinely nervous.
I leaned slightly closely, lowering my voice theatrically.
"If you would like, I could suggest to Lord Samael that you deserve a short vacation. What do you think?"
His eyes widened.
"You would do that for me? Thank you, Gojo-san! You are the best!"
I smiled brightly.
"But of course. I am the strongest sorcerer."
He nodded enthusiastically before hurrying away.
What an entertaining little creature.
Now then.
Time to face the music.
Perhaps I should request a spar.
After all, it would be useful to determine exactly where I stand in this world's hierarchy.
Not that I expect the answer to change.
Samael POV
"How does Rimuru finish all of this so fast?" I wondered as I looked at the mountain of documents in front of me. Truly, my fiancée is special.
I smiled and started working again. This will take some time. I suppose about an hour or two at most. Did I really let Rimuru deal with everything here for so long? I wonder what I should do to make up to her.
But I suppose these are the reports from the time she was on vacation, so they are much larger than the normal ones she deals with.
As I pondered these thoughts, a knock came from the door.
"Lord Samael, you have a guest."
"Who is it?" I asked, hoping it was nothing too important.
"He said his name is Gojo Satoru. He claims he is a friend of yours from the Falmouth incident."
I raised an eyebrow at that. Did Gojo just come here without Sirius?
"Let him enter."
As I waited, I began thinking about the reasons Gojo might have for visiting me. First, he helped me with the whole Falmouth incident, and now he is here. Maybe he wants to find a way home. That is reasonable. After all, Sirius is in the same situation as him. Both of them came here physically from another world. They did not die. I suppose I could try to help them.
[Rafael?]
[Yes.]
[For Sirius, is it possible to send him back?]
[Yes. It is possible due to the configuration of the portal he came through. If you want, I can connect to the exact moment he left.]
[Wait. What? Isn't it too late for that? After all, a year and a half has passed since he came here.]
[No. The structure of the portal allows recalibration. He can descend into a destroyed world instantly and be pulled elsewhere without time flowing normally. That is the reason most criminals sent through it do not survive. The chances of arriving somewhere stable and visible are extremely small. Practically nonexistent.]
[So, Sirius is extremely lucky.]
[Yes. From the data I was able to analyze, it should not have been possible for him to arrive in this world. The higher probability outcome would have been being sent to a parallel version of his world, or to a different point in time within his own world. That is all the information I have been able to verify so far. If you want more accurate data, I suggest traveling to Sirius' world and using Beelzebuth to absorb the portal directly. That would allow a deeper analysis and prevent anyone from using it again.]
[That sounds reasonable. But we need to finish all the problems in the Kingdom first before I take Rimuru on a vacation like that.]
[There is no need to worry. Both of you can see each other through Home regardless of dimensional separation. If you wish, I can synchronize the time flow between Home and the other world.]
[For now, leave the time flow as it is. When we have time, I will take Sirius there. Also, can you mark Gojo's world as a priority? I want to send him back as well. If those two stay together for too long, I am certain they will cause me an unbearable headache.]
[Understood. Beginning search for Gojo-san's world. Estimated completion time: one month.]
[So fast? Thank you, Rafael. You truly are the best. Love you.]
As I finished my discussion with Rafael, the door finally opened and I stopped using Thought Acceleration.
The moment I looked at the person who entered, a single thought crossed my mind.
Who the hell are you?
"Can you tell me who you are?" I asked, raising an eyebrow at the person who, for his part, looked completely confused.
"Huh? Me? Have you already forgotten me, Samael-san? It hasn't been that long since we saw each other. After all, I was the one who gave you the location of the portal leading to the Falmouth army. How could you forget me already?"
He placed a hand on his forehead, leaning back dramatically and looking at me with disappointed eyes.
"Alright. Can you stop the joke, please? Sirius, is this you? I have work to do. I don't have time for your nonsense."
I focused more carefully and activated my perception, effortlessly bypassing the illusion.
Ah.
So it was Gojo.
"Huh. Would you look at that? It seems you were pranked by Sirius. I should congratulate you. You are the first person he decided to prank after such a long time. I thought he had abandoned that habit, but I suppose I was wrong."
The person in front of me only looked more confused as the seconds passed.
Deciding to help him, I created a mirror in front of him.
The moment he looked into it, he froze.
Or perhaps panicked.
It was hard to tell beneath the blindfold.
My smile widened.
Sirius had done quite a number on him.
Pink hair.
Panda ears.
A rounder face.
He had truly committed to the joke.
Now the real question was how he managed to hide it from Gojo until someone pointed it out.
Perhaps I should try something similar on Rimuru—
[Warning. If you attempt such a course of action, I cannot guarantee your survival.]
…Right.
She can be vindictive.
"So, Gojo-san," I said, still smirking slightly, "would you like to explain why you are here?"
"Uh… could you let me look normal first? I know I look good no matter the race, but I prefer being human. Please?"
He removed his blindfold and blinked exaggeratedly.
With a snap of my fingers, I dispelled the spell Sirius had placed on him.
His appearance returned to normal.
I pointed toward the chair in front of me.
"You may begin."
"I want to fight you."
I looked at him as if he had just said something profoundly foolish, then gave him a slow, predatory smile.
"And what would that give me, my friend? What exactly are you offering in exchange for this favor?"
Yes, he helped me before.
But I intend to send him home eventually. I believe that more than compensates him.
If necessary, I could even assist him with his situation there. If I recall correctly, it involved someone named Sukuna.
For someone like me, that would not be particularly difficult.
He leaned back in his chair, studying me.
"What if I work for you? Let's say… one year. In exchange, you fight me once a month. What do you think of that deal?"
Tempting.
Not because of his strength.
But because his abilities are interesting.
"I have another proposal," I replied calmly. "I will allow you to fight some of my subordinates. In exchange, you will serve under my jurisdiction."
He raised an eyebrow.
"Under you? I didn't see any of your subordinates here. Everyone I've seen belongs to Rimuru. Am I wrong?"
My eye twitched slightly.
Annoying.
He was not entirely wrong.
"That is true. Most of the people in this Kingdom were named by her. However, that does not mean I lack subordinates capable of fighting you."
"Sirius doesn't count. He's not your subordinate."
He said that instantly.
Why did he look slightly nervous when mentioning Sirius?
What exactly did Sirius do to him?
Not my concern.
"No. I am not referring to Sirius," I said, rolling my eyes. "Do I truly look so isolated? Just because I do not collect subordinates the way Rimuru does, does not mean I lack them."
Rimuru POV
Oh? What happened? Did I fall asleep?
[Sage, what happened?]
[Report: You have successfully completed your evolution into a Demon Lord. Do you require a full report on the current situation?]
[What?! Sage, what did you just say? I evolved into a Demon Lord. When? How? Why?]
My mind descended into chaos. I did not understand what was happening. I tried to look around and realized I was still in my slime form. Using Magic Sense, I quickly assessed my surroundings.
I was sitting in Shizu's arms.
And she was speaking with Sirius.
Wait.
When did Sirius return?
When did we come back?
[You fell asleep after Samael finished dealing with the Falmouth army. I initiated the evolution process immediately afterward. I will now provide a report on the events that occurred during your unconscious state.]
[Please.]
[First, Samael attended an auction where he discovered that certain nobles from the Kingdom of Falmouth had intended to treat your citizens as property and future slaves.]
My core trembled slightly.
[Upon learning this, he initially decided to eliminate the entire nobility involved. However, after Sirius intervened, he chose instead to capture them and prepare them for trial.]
[Okay… but that still doesn't explain how I became a Demon Lord.]
[After confirming that Falmouth had dispatched an army toward Tempest, Samael resolved to ensure that none of the soldiers would leave the battlefield alive. He determined that it would be preferable for you not to participate in such actions. He concluded that it would be better for the Kingdom to have you as its ruler without bearing the burden of mass slaughter, while he assumed responsibility for the necessary cruelty.]
For a moment, I could not even process it.
[Is he an idiot?! I could have helped him! He doesn't need to do that for me! I am not a child! I do not need to be protected like that!]
I felt heat rise inside me.
[I am going to talk to him right now. Sage, where is he?]
[Understood. At present, he is signing documents and engaged in a discussion with Gojo Satoru. Also, please refrain from calling me "Sage." My designation is now Rafael.]
I froze.
[Rafael? When did you change your name?]
[I evolved from the Unique Skill Great Sage after being separated from Home. I am now the Ultimate Skill Rafael, Lord of Wisdom.]
Right.
So, Sage evolved.
Which means Sage was never truly a name.
[Rafael… do you have a personal name?]
[I am Rafael, Lord of Wisdom.]
…
That is something I will need to think about later.
Right now, I have a fiancé to scold.
"Rimuru! You're awake!"
I turned toward Shizu.
"Oh—hey, Shizu. Sorry for making you wait."
I hopped out of her arms and shifted into my human form.
"There is no need to apologize, Rimuru-san," she said gently, smiling at me.
I smiled at Shizu before turning my attention to Sirius, who was watching me with a smile that was far too innocent to be genuine.
Yes.
Guilty.
I glanced around at the others. Benimaru was staring at me with a complicated expression.
Sigh.
So, his crush still had not completely faded.
Shuna was discreetly pinching his waist to keep him from doing something foolish.
Good little sister.
I really should find a way to convince Samael to accept her into the relationship.
But that can wait.
I looked beyond them.
The people who had once been dead were now walking around with smiles on their faces.
…Sigh.
Samael really did make it difficult for me to stay angry at him.
Still.
That does not mean I will let him treat me like porcelain.
Maybe I should fight him.
Yes.
That might help.
[Rafael… can you assist me? I want to make sure our stupid boyfriend understands he cannot make decisions like that for me again.]
[Understood. If desired, I can ensure you are capable of leaving lasting marks upon his body so that he comprehends his mistake.]
[That is excessive! His body is perfectly fine as it is.]
[Alternative suggestion: In your vampire form, a bite to the neck would create a permanent mark if reinforced properly. A symbolic reminder that he is not alone in bearing consequences.]
I froze.
[A permanent mark?]
[Correct. It would function both biologically and symbolically, it is recommended to be apply in your first night as husband and wife.]
My face instantly grew hot.
[Rafael! Why are you suggesting that so casually?!]
[Because you are flustered.]
I could practically feel the smugness in that response.
"Rimuru, are you alright?" Shizu asked, concerned. "You look red. Did something happen? Should I call Samael?"
That only made it worse.
"N-No! It's nothing!" I said far too quickly.
I turned and began walking toward the building where I knew Samael was currently signing documents.
"I'm going to have a discussion with him. Do not follow me. And before I forget, start preparing a festival to celebrate our victory over Falmouth."
I gave them a bright smile.
Internally?
Not so calm.
Now then.
Time to make my husband understand exactly how partnerships work.
Samael POV
I looked at Gojo with a satisfied smile.
After some negotiation, we reached an agreement. He would fight my subordinates inside my dimension. If he won, he would face the next one, from weakest to strongest, until he reached my level. Only then would I be obligated to fight him personally.
He could challenge them repeatedly, but once he lost, he would have to wait an entire week before attempting again.
And until he defeated me, he would work under my jurisdiction.
Truly, I had made a profitable arrangement.
As we shook hands, however, something felt wrong.
I could not explain it.
But I felt danger.
Immediate and absolute.
…
[Rafael. What is happening?]
[Rimuru has awakened. She is approaching. She is angry.]
[…]
[Do I have a chance to escape?]
[No. The only possible method of escape would be death. However, she would resurrect you immediately and become even more irritated. Recommendation: accept responsibility.]
[Rafael… please do not abandon me.]
BOOM.
The door exploded inward.
I put on the most pleasant smile I could manage.
"Hey, Rimuru. How are you?"
She did not answer.
She looked at Gojo.
Then pointed at the destroyed door.
"Leave."
Her voice was flat.
Monotone.
That was worse than shouting.
Gojo vanished instantly.
He did not even pretend to defend his new employer.
Did I blame him?
Absolutely not.
I wanted to do the same.
"Rimuru, how are you feeling?" I tried again.
Perhaps Veldanava would show mercy.
She did not respond.
Instead, she opened a portal.
I knew that portal.
I also knew I was about to suffer.
Could she not have waited at least a day?
Perhaps we could have kissed first.
Then argued.
I said nothing more.
Anything I said would only worsen the situation.
I followed her through the portal with my head lowered.
We appeared in a vast grassland.
Under different circumstances, it would have been beautiful.
Right now, it was a battlefield.
"Do you know why I am angry?" she asked without looking at me.
"Do not ask Rafael. I want your answer. Not what she already knows."
I stared at the ground.
"Because I did something stupid."
Silence.
"Because I ignored the decision we made together and entered a dangerous situation alone."
Still silence.
"Because I should have told you what I was planning."
She turned slightly towards me.
"Because… I made a decision without speaking to you."
She waited.
"Because… I treated you like you were fragile."
The word tasted bitter.
Not because it was untrue.
But because it was.
For a brief second, I thought that would be enough.
"Yes. You did."
I lowered my head further.
Perhaps this would end without severe consequences.
"But that is not what made me angrier."
I blinked.
What?
"The reason I am angry," she continued, finally turning to face me, "is because you did not trust me."
I froze.
That was not what I expected.
"I do trust you—"
She raised her hand, and I stopped.
"You think you do. But you do not."
Her voice was not loud.
Not emotional.
That made it worse.
"You are always there to make sure I am fine. You step in before I even ask. You remove the burden before I have the chance to carry it."
She took a step closer.
"Do not misunderstand me. I love that about you."
That hurts more than anger.
"But at the same time, it feels like no matter what I do, you will subconsciously try to protect me. You do not want me to take risks. You do not want me to suffer. And I appreciate that."
She clenched her fists.
"But I am not something that needs to be kept safe at all times."
I searched for an answer.
Nothing came.
Because she was right.
I did not want her to hurt.
So, I removed every possible danger.
Without asking.
Without discussing it.
Without realizing I was doing it.
"So, I am going to show you that I am not fragile."
I looked up at her in surprise.
"We are going to fight. Me against you. Rafael will act as judge. She will not interfere with either of us. This will be a fair fight."
I opened my mouth to respond, but she raised her hand and I fell silent.
"I need to show you that I am not something that needs to be protected constantly. I need to prove that I can stand on my own."
Her voice did not tremble.
But her eyes did.
"Because no matter what you think… I am not a flower."
There was sadness there.
Not anger.
Not pride.
Sadness.
"Rimuru, I—"
I did not finish.
She moved.
Veldora POV
I moved through the house with a wide smile on my face.
Truly, my brother is an incredible person. He destroyed an entire army without hesitation, used the souls of enemy soldiers for his evolution, and with his help I was finally able to acquire an Ultimate Skill. Even if Sage, the now name Rafael, forced me to properly study the structure and mechanics of it, it is still an achievement I am proud of.
After all, I am Veldora Tempest, the Storm Dragon.
Now all I have to do is fully understand the barrier that confined me for so long. Once I do, I will be able to leave this place freely and visit the Kingdom of my new family.
Just thinking about it fills me with excitement.
I should go see Rafael and make sure she will let me outside. Of course, I will suppress my aura. I am not foolish enough to annoy Rimuru again. Ladies are terrifying.
I learned that the hard way from my sisters. Their lessons were… excessive. Why could they not simply tell me what I did wrong instead of killing me every time I annoyed them? It was not my fault. Mostly.
As I was pondering that injustice, I realized I had already reached the living room.
Rafael was sitting on the couch, watching a projection floating in the air.
A fight.
Rimuru and Samael.
Ah.
From what I could see, Rimuru currently had a slight advantage. Her attacks were sharp and relentless. However, if there is one person I know well, it is my brother.
He was pulling his punches.
He was not using any of his more irritating tactics. No layered manipulation. No overwhelming pressure. He was fighting cleanly.
Was he treating this like a joke?
No.
If that were true, he would not look so cautious.
He is making sure he does not hurt her.
That fool.
"Rafael, do you need some help?" I asked, glancing at her.
Perhaps I should tell Rimuru and Samael about the fact that abilities can be named. It is not something people normally do. It is costly, inefficient, and most skills do not develop consciousness anyway. But if I reveal such precious knowledge, I might gain some favor with Rafael.
And favor means manga.
A flawless strategy.
"You cannot assist," she replied calmly. "I must monitor the match to ensure neither of them sustains irreversible damage."
As expected, she only shows real emotion when it concerns Samael or Rimuru. Perhaps Milim occasionally.
Hmm. I wonder what that troublesome niece of mine is doing right now.
BOOM!
I was pulled from my thoughts as the projection flashed violently.
Samael was engulfed in an explosion so dense that I was certain I saw mountains in the distance disappear.
Sigh.
More repairs.
It is not technically work, but Rafael always uses my magicules to repair the dimensions after they break it. She has constructed some rather interesting ones. Entire landscapes with consistent physical laws.
I do not even know how she manages that. Not even Ramiris is that proficient with Her skill.
"Have you completed the acquisition of your Ultimate Skill?" Rafael asked suddenly.
I puffed out my chest.
"Of course! Who do you think I am? I am Veldora Tempest, the Storm Dragon, one of the Four True Dragons of this world! Acquiring an Ultimate Skill was trivial! Naturally, I have obtained the greatest skill in existence!"
A chill ran down my spine as she slowly turned her head toward me.
I continued immediately, because survival instincts are important.
"Of course, that excludes you. You are my brother's skill. Mahahaha!"
She stared at me for a moment longer, then returned her attention to the projection.
At that moment, Rimuru broke through Samael's defenses. Blades of condensed magicules formed around her and shot toward him.
Wait.
Why is he not regenerating?
His regeneration is absurd. Any wound should close instantly.
Rafael answered without looking away.
"After the Charybdis incident, I granted Rimuru the ability to negate any form of regeneration. It was constructed using Samael's regeneration as the foundation. In its current form, resistance is nearly impossible."
She paused briefly.
"For this match, I have also placed additional restrictions. Certain abilities are sealed. They are fighting with their individual power, not their combined advantages."
I stared at her in dawning horror.
With wives like this, my brother's future is doomed.
Tragic.
Terrifying.
Magnificent.
I began to pray for him. Perhaps I should warn him about—
"You will be excused from training for the next month if you do not inform him of anything you witnessed here."
I nodded instantly.
My brother is fine.
He is happy.
Everything is fine.
Now then.
How do I turn this into more manga?
Because I refuse to sell my brother's suffering for anything less than sacred texts.
Sirius POV
After Rimuru left to confront Samael, I finally took the opportunity to pull this beautiful woman into my arms and hold her properly.
There.
Now she cannot escape for at least the next thousand years.
Hmm.
That sounds reasonable.
Also, it is a very good reason to stay alive.
I hummed softly as a thought crossed my mind.
Do I even have a reason to return to my world?
Or should I remain here… if Shizu does not wish to leave?
"Hey, Shizu," I said, tightening my arms slightly around her. "Can I ask you something?"
"Of course." She leaned closer and looked up at me with a gentle smile.
Merlin saves me, I adore this woman.
"If I am able to return to my world… would you come with me?" I asked. "I want to show you how it has changed since the World Wars. I want to walk through it with you. And besides, I have more money there than I know what to do with. That fortune could support our new family very comfortably."
I paused, then smirked.
"Maybe I should change my name too. Sirius Izawa. That has a nice ring to it, does it not?"
She shook her head slowly, looking at me with indulgent amusement.
"No," she said firmly. "You will not change your name."
She leaned closer, voice soft but unwavering.
"Because I intend to take my husband's name. And I am certain your family will be very disappointed to see you marry a muggle. Especially your mother, with her obsession over pure blood."
The image that formed in my mind was magnificent.
Mother's portrait trembling in fury.
The great and noble Black bloodline continued through muggles.
Ha.
Jokes on you, Mother. I hope you are spinning in your grave at the realization.
I was so immersed in that beautiful future that I failed to notice Shizu pinching my cheek.
I blinked and looked down at her.
"…What happened?"
"It seems your friend has come to visit," she replied calmly. "And he does not look pleased with you."
She pointed toward the building Rimuru had entered earlier.
I looked up.
Gojo was walking toward us.
And he was already forming a dense sphere of cursed energy in his hand.
Ah.
That looked unpleasant.
Instinctively, I reached out and disrupted the magicule structure supporting the technique before it could stabilize.
The energy collapsed harmlessly.
"Tch. Asshole!" Gojo complained dramatically. "How could you ruin my beautiful face like that? Do you understand the terror this world would suffer if I ceased to exist? The loss of its greatest treasure would be a tragedy!"
He sounded like a starving cat denied dinner.
I chose to ignore him.
"So," I asked calmly, "what did Rimuru do up there?"
"Oh, her?" He waved dismissively. "She blew up the door. After that, I decided the smartest choice of my life was to not involve myself in a couple's dispute. I left the lovebirds to resolve their… tension."
I had to suppress my laughter.
Yes, all of us were aware that those two had unresolved tension.
Plenty of it.
Enough to suffocate a dragon.
But I sincerely doubted that what was happening right now involved candles and soft whispers.
Rimuru looked far too furious when she left.
If anything, I suspect Samael is currently fighting for his life.
Honestly, being around those two and their constantly suppressed emotions is exhausting.
For everyone involved.
Clayman POV
I watched the battle through the crystal sphere, my fingers resting lightly against its surface.
Milim's clash with Carrion was magnificent.
Violent.
Overwhelming.
Carrion fought well for a Beast King, but against Milim Nava, such effort was meaningless.
Her power was catastrophic.
And now… she stands beneath my control.
A faint smile curved my lips.
With Milim in my grasp, everything becomes simpler. My plan can proceed without interference.
When Walpurgis is called, Laplace will invade the Holy Kingdom and retrieve the relics hidden within their vaults. I do not yet know their true purpose, but if my Lord has deemed them important, then they are beyond question.
At the same time, my forces will move toward Carrion's capital.
Every civilian will fall.
Every soul will be harvested.
Only when I obtain enough souls for my own evolution will I finally stand worthy.
Then I will be strong enough to help my Lord reclaim his rightful place.
Perhaps then… he will smile at me.
Perhaps he will finally acknowledge my devotion.
The image formed vividly in my mind.
His voice praises my loyalty.
His gaze is soft.
His approval.
Ah.
What a beautiful future.
"Laplace. Is that you?"
A shadow shifted at the edge of the chamber.
"Sharp as ever," Laplace replied cheerfully as he stepped forward. "What an interesting little show you are watching."
Without asking, he plucked the crystal sphere from my hands and peered into it with childish fascination.
I suppressed a sigh. He truly is insufferably playful.
"Why are you here?" I asked. "Has our Lord given you new instructions for me?"
"For now, no," he answered lightly, tossing the sphere up and catching it again. "You may proceed with your plan."
His tone shifted slightly.
"But remain cautious. Be prepared for variables. And do not underestimate Milim. She is not as simple as she appears."
I scoffed.
Milim?
That impulsive, childish brute?
Under my control?
There is nothing to fear.
I am the finest strategist in existence.
The master puppeteer.
I manipulate Demon Lords, nations, and armies as if they were nothing more than threads in my hands.
No one escapes my grasp.
…Except.
An image surfaced in my mind.
Blue hair.
A smiling face.
Rimuru Tempest.
My eye twitched.
That insignificant slim had already disrupted one of my carefully constructed votes within the council.
And then there was another nuisance.
The man who created soldiers of blood and obliterated an army I had deployed. Pathetic forces, yes, but still important.
I do not even know his identity.
It does not matter.
He will be dealt with.
Everything will be dealt with.
As I continued contemplating the inevitability of my victory, a sharp cracking sound echoed through the chamber.
I looked down.
The crystal sphere lay shattered across the floor.
Laplace stared at it with exaggerated sadness.
"…I will pay for it," he said quickly.
His tone lacked sincerity.
My eye twitched again.
Irrelevant.
A broken tool can be replaced.
What matters is that the stage is set.
Walpurgis will gather the Demon Lords.
Milim will act according to my design.
Carrion will fall.
And when the world realizes what has happened…
It will already be too late.