Shitara Slime Datta Ken (WN)
Previous Night
Together with the freed elves, rare monsters continued to flow into the city. Considering the quality of their mounts, they must have been treated quite well. I guess their kidnappers never intended to start an open enmity against us. I mean, come to think of it, even the head of the – elves whose suffering started all this – without the slightest injury. I imagine them meticulously planning their actions with the intention of not killing a single “orang”. The elves, based on their magic capacity were C rank ~ B creatures, but many of them could use magic. So their ratings do not show their strength – a rather dangerous bunch. No matter how thorough their planning was, to capture ten elves unscathed, was a true testimony to the strength of the hunters. Assuming there are a few of them, I imagine they are at least A rank. I'll have to think about this again later. That is, I can hardly underestimate an underground organization that has many such individuals. My heart stiffened watching the parade of slave monsters.
.
One of Cerberus Tops – Damrada. As the person responsible for the monster's return, he went to the city among them. Of course, the real goal is to get into the “permata” called Tempest. But, thanks to inspections at entry, and a ban on illegal immigration, entry into the country is not easy to come by. The guild card will allow entry. However, anyone must enter by invitation. The country is not fully developed yet, so we can hardly let just anyone in. The refugees flooding our country are staying in the inns we just finished. And we immediately hired them as builders or janitorial staff. Besides, the,
Damrada ran over to greet me with a big smile on his face. After only a glimpse into the city, with a nod of admiration,
[It has been a long time, Demon Lord Rimuru-sama. This undeserving one is called Damrada. On this day, as we promised, we returned the captured monsters. We are very grateful to have allowed entry into your country]
He bowed respectfully. As usual, she was dressed very well, she was not too flashy either.
[Yes. It seems like you have treated my subject well. Thank ye. Since you have fulfilled part of his promise, let's forget about this incident. But you do understand that I'm not gonna let this happen again, right?]
[Hahaha, of course. You are not an opponent that I want to risk my life to fight]
Damrada intended to completely remove all traces of hostility using that brief exchange. We also prefer to avoid war of attrition with this organization. I mean, we'll destroy them if we fight head-on, but there's a lot of bad things they can do from behind the shadows. And given that I have just proclaimed myself a benevolent demon king by freeing the Templars, I would rather not waste that effort. These people just want to get my help. What's the point of fighting them aimlessly? Well, then they get in my way, I'll destroy them.
[By the way, a little bird whispered this to me... But it looks like you're holding a tournament? We can't possibly get the right to observe it?]
Damrada asked me with a natural smile. Doesn't he want to analyze our strength. Well, I don't mind. I mean, showing off our abilities is the goal. But, I can't let it be free, can I?
[You have my permission. You also have permission to remain here until the tournament takes place]
[Oh, how great is your virtue! In that case.].
[But, have your strongest person participate. I'd love to see what he looks like. I mean, from now on we'll see each other a lot, right?]
I answered with a smile. He came here trying to get my help. There was no way he could refuse. Just like I thought. He hesitated a little, but
[As expected of the demon lord, everything has its price. Entiendo. In this case, this individual.].
He called a young man. I saw the young man, and once again to Damrada.
[Damrada, you will participate. You're the strongest among these, aren't you?]
We stared at each other for a moment, and, uh,
[I'm busted. Made amazingly. You've seen it all. In that case, I have no choice but to participate. I'll be in your care both as a participant and as an observer.]
[Yes, our future relationship will depend on your performance. So I suggest you try hard]
Damrada bowed again and left. As expected, he was truly the strongest among them. Although he did not look like that, his strength was clearly visible to those who could actually see. And thus, our list of participants grew again. It's no fun fighting just between our friends. This should be a little peppering. And if things get really competitive, maybe we'll see Damrada's true strength. Martial Arts Tournament. I can't wait!
* * *
Ramiris and Veldora are having fun inside the dungeon. Also the sight of Milim flying in the sky dragging a dragon into the basement was not a rare sight. Everything is the same as always. There have been constant reports of their loud laughter bothering people, but we decided to ignore the reports. As for the invitation letter, Myormiles had chosen individuals to invite and sent out those letters. Communication is important. So I introduced Souei to Myormiles and asked him to help with communication. Souei's subordinates – Souka, Saika, Nansou, and Hokusou become the center of Myormiles communication team. Because he was so good at handling people, they quickly opened up to him. I'm so glad they didn't underestimate it.
So I might be able to leave all that to them. According to Myormiles, the nobles have a large entourage of mercenaries and adventurers they employ. In other words, if we make them believe that there is a great benefit to clearing the labyrinth, we can harvest a lot of money from them. And we might be able to ask some nobles to be our sponsors. Which will also advance our plan to reuse the arena one step further. Although when I say “reuse” I mean in the limited sense of – up to four times a year. Next time we can use it for training or something. But sponsors, huh? Myormiles did well, thinking that far. I only think about the money that can be earned from adventurers, and worry about those who will lose themselves in it. And that's where sponsorships will come in handy. So maybe we should fill the basement with hidden riches that, like lotteries, will reward some people. To make money from those who like to gamble, of course. Maybe have a rare item as a gift? Well, Myormiles suggested that we make a request to the Freedom Association.
[Can we make this request from them?]
[Of course. A reward of 1,000 gold coins for him who would clear a hundred floors. And that's impossible, huh? Of course, the number of challengers will decrease due to fame. Is there an adventurer who can defeat a dragon? Even the knights will find it difficult ”they said. So those who ate the rest of the nobles said. That's why I think it's a good idea to offer a fancy gift. But, to make them think we really intend to pay them this gift, I propose that we offer another reward depending on the floor achieved. One gold coin to reach the 10th floor.3 gold coins to reach the 30th floor. Something like that. Maybe even a gift for a time note to the save point?]
[Ha ha ha. An advertisement that would draw people in even though I was the demon lord! Nice, Myormiles, good. So, are we just going to give awards to some people? Or everything?]
[I think about the first five every month. If they are in a party, they just need to split the profits. And if we award them once a month, it will encourage them to compete more]
I'm seeing. If we reward the first individual to reach the target, it will not hurt our budget and encourage participation. What an amazing plan. No one will remove them, and even if they do, it doesn't matter. A trivial amount is like a thousand gold coins that we can earn very quickly. This incredible idea has become.
[Myormiles-kun, continue as you say!]
[Yes, I live to serve!]
Myormiles' plan requires me to contact each country and see the adventurer list. There are also questions about getting into the basement. Adventurers can easily log in using their associate card, and we can manage the information hosted on that card. As for those who do not have guild membership, we can issue a homemade card. I've consulted Kaijin about that question. This way, we will be able to control everyone's access and information. Getting into the labyrinth is 3 silver coins one way. We will issue the first card for free. If it is lost or destroyed, the second is 10 silver coins. We will also allow them to taste the resurrection bracelet by giving them one free. Of course, first time entry into the dungeon was also free. And resurrection is important. After that, we will sell the bracelets for two pieces of silver each, and, given the importance of the bracelets, I hope to sell a lot. We must also make sure to announce the danger of entering the basement without such a bracelet. Even though they only blame themselves for their deaths, I'd rather avoid the victims. On another note, we also decided to hire weapons and protectors. This was my idea and I will ask Kurobee to watch over her. Well, I don't know how this is going to change, but I wish I could make a lot of money. I can't wait to open the dungeon!
* * *
First, let's discuss the participating members. From Tempest, we have all department heads: Benimaru, Diablo, Ranga, Souei, Shion, Hakurou, Gerudo, Gabil, and Gobuta. That nine. They were the cause of this mess – nine people who expressed the intention to participate in the banquet. I wonder who is the strongest among them? I'll guess Diablo, but things might go differently in the tournament. What, are you wondering if recovery medicine will prevent them from fatigue? Huu's wrong! After all, it did not recover magic energy. So if you don't set your own pace, life will be very difficult later on. So we really don't know how things will end until, well, eventually. And then they had a fight about the order, which made me propose a round of robin competition. We also decided to have four prize places. The problem is, we have too few participants. I mean, it would be better if there were eight participants – us too much. So, and to make them a little riled up, I decided to split the group further and turn it into an elimination tournament with 16 participants. Which, of course, requires that I find him.
So I turned to our sponsor (the demon lord).
[I ~ I ~! Beretta I'm ready to go!]
That one.
As expected.
[Fu fu fu. I've been waiting for you to ask! I'll have unde sayarling participate!]
The mysterious masked, lion mask wearer! Milim declared, and hurried away. Well. I think who will participate on his behalf. Is it gonna be okay? I mean, the level here is quite high but this may be excessive. As for the other demon lords, I'm not so friendly with them, so be it.
Then there are the rewards of past negotiations – Damrada. He and his group were out and enjoying the city, having rented the best inn. No need to question – they are already loaded. And they understood the importance of getting the best room before the royal family showed up. That guy, without question, is strong. Whether he will fight to the point of exhaustion or pretend to be weak, I can't wait to see him. So that's another fun factor we added.
With that, we only need four more. I think we can turn it into a four-way battle royale. And when I think of it,
[Rimuru-san, did you call?]
I heard a voice. No, I didn't call you. Who'sis that? Strongest man Templar – Arnaud Baumann.
[What's up, Arnaud?]
[Fufu, I want to participate in the tournament you are participating in. I have been trained by Hakurou-san here recently. So I definitely want to participate.]
That okay? Lodging in here. I want to say it, but since Hinata went back to the capital, I have no one to complain to. Eight templars left. I've asked them to help prepare the barrier, but I don't think they mind if Arnaud participates. And since our numbers are so few, I guess we have no choice but to let the weaker members participate. That leaves three empty places.
[Then, I'll ask you to participate. But if you suck, you realize other countries will be watching, right?]
[No problem. The Templars do not know defeat!]
Where does that trust come from? From the new sword and armor made by Kurobee? I mean, yes, this is a test product that enhances even his spirit equipment. And, as test products, we can't mass produce them. But ... I'm pretty sure it's the armor that makes him confident. Well, I don't care if he dies of shame, nor will I be responsible for it.
[Alright, but wear a mask. You will stand out, are you okay with that?]
We already have the Lion Mask participating, so naturally they would rather participate in this way than as a templar.
[ Understood. We'll wear masks just in case. Thank you for allowing us to participate [
“Lose will be bad,” muttered Arnaud and left. He's very confident. And considering he was once heartbroken by Diablo, he was a pretty tough guy. That, or just a fool. But thank God he didn't go straight against Diablo. Really am.
Okay, three places left. Another place we'll fill when we go. From among the intelligent beasts and monsters of the Jura forest. Not her cattle, but individuals who wanted to differentiate themselves. We'll have them fight over the remaining three spots. Oh, who's gonna win? Leave aside the message, now is the time I decided the gift — special post. Victory or defeat will determine whether they will continue to be called heads of departments. In any case, the winner is my own possession which I will give the title which will be the backing of the masses. Therefore, it's time I think about the hierarchy around here.
* * *
The day before the tournament. Representatives of many races had arrived by now. The earliest arrival began a week before. Along with the letter I have sent, Myormiles invited a number of wealthy merchants to have some fun. The visitors who have come here before proudly show the newcomers around. What a truly entertaining sight – see so many races and kings enjoy our country. So far, everything has gone according to plan. On that note, I would like to say that the number of guests has already reached 3,000 people. We do have the ability to accommodate up to ten thousand commoners, but 3,000 is the limit for high-end housing. And when I was overwhelmed by worry, Myormiles handled the case. Without a single mistake he had assigned everyone to the various inns. Of course, Rigurdo and Rigur as well as other Tempest workers also showed commendable effort and skill. And thanks to all their hard work, we were able to welcome the day before the tournament without major events.
So, the night before. The leaders of the country were all gathered in a large conference room. Night of festival. Sitting on my tatami mat, I observed everyone's relaxed face. The bath was a huge success, with some people showering more than once a day. We gave them all the yukata, and they are now busy commenting on their performances. So far good. Their bodyguards had decided to keep watch outside, and had since stood tall. Like their professionals, they meticulously researched the food I ordered to bring in. Maybe fear of poison. Well, considering if I want to poison them, I can use violence .. but, let's avoid that topic.
[Hmph, thank you for coming today. I am the new demon lord, Rimuru. I want tonight to be a small welcome, and so do you want to partake of Tempest's cuisine. Forgive my incompetent speech. Let's start!]
There are many people who want to talk to Me directly, but they have to do it after that. Most of their eyes were curious. There were some who paled when I called myself the demon king, and the other face shone. I'm not very good at handling these kinds of things, which is why I decided on a simple greeting banquet. That's when the food started to come out. Are they gonna like it? This time, sushi. Sashimi and tempura. Fresh fish. I mean, I went to get it myself. Regardless of what I catch, I swallow everything, and remove the poison. I also learned to move around in the water better. But, I have to leave this kind of work to people from now on. Hakurou handles fish with exceptional skill. Using the blade that Kurobee forged, he dissected everything in an instant. Shuna also handles fish very well. Hakurou also packed his rice. The unexpected skill he had. Apparently, he learned how to do that from the previous generation. So does that mean the dragon slayer was a world traveler from the Edo period? But somehow the time period does not fit... Well, what do I care? Shion also wanted to help but decided to abstain this time. I mean, of course. We cannot possibly give unpleasant-looking food to the rulers. It would be bad even as a joke. The problem is, soy sauce. Somehow, we managed to make a ketchup substitute. I think the color is wrong, and even though it tastes a bit, it shouldn't matter. The wasabi we had. But the first timer may not handle it well, so we decided to make sushi without it this time. All preparations are arranged. Food reflects the friendliness of the soul. I hope they see my intentions.
And thus began the banquet. The first scream was heard as we started pouring cold beer. For those unfortunate people who have never enjoyed a well-carbonated cold beer, our product must have been a shock. It also has to be cold. It should be served in a cold transparent glass – that is the nature of Japanese service. Even I can't compromise on the point. The fairy maid was going around pouring alcohol. No, I didn't force him to do it! He volunteered, overall, it was a huge success. When he bowed with his hands in front of him, it illuminated the heart of a man. There are people whose faces are red but not drunk much. After all, breasts and yukata. Fufufu.
And thus, the banquet continued. It looks like it will be finished without any problems. Studying the fish in front of Me, I can't help but admire the cut design. Of course, I ate it right away. Doesn't mean it's bad. This fish is ranked A. and while some of them seem almost unappetizing, it does not affect its taste. The guests asked their witches to rate the food for poison and hesitantly put it in their mouths. Well, as their lander, they may never have had the opportunity to eat raw fish before. After all, the carriage was the problem. Besides being able to carry in limited quantities, even very rich people would not be able to eat raw fish. Oh, and of course they like it a lot. So everything went according to plan. “See what you can eat if dealing with us?” That's the kind of message I want them to get from this. That's one of the reasons I'm doing all this. Not just to show off my wealth. I'm not just a selfish individual, I'm also an opportunist! That's how it is.
And thus the banquet (aka publicity stunt) was completed without incident.