Soft lights illuminated the grand hall of Dimensional City. Crystal-lamp arrays powered by elemental reactors cast brilliant reflections across the metallic walls, giving the entire hall a futuristic glow foreign to this world.
Rimuru sat cross-legged beside Takumi, swirling wine idly in his glass. Gazel Dwargo, Hero King of Dwargon, sat across from them, posture straight and solemn.
The duel earlier had broken the ice.
This banquet would either forge—or shatter—the path ahead.
Gazel's Ultimatum
"I see. So you came to investigate the mysterious monster organization that defeated the Orc Lord." Rimuru nodded thoughtfully.
Gazel raised his glass slightly.
"That was my initial goal. But after speaking with Mr. Kagaya Ubuyashiki… I changed my objective. I came here to determine if Dimensional City is worthy of being Dwargon's ally."
He set his glass down.
Then leaned forward.
His voice carried the weight of a king.
"Rimuru. I ask you this clearly and directly."
Rimuru straightened.
"Please speak."
Gazel's eyes sharpened.
"Do you wish to form an alliance with me? If you take control of the entire Jura Forest, your wealth and influence will surpass even my country's."
He glanced at Takumi.
"With Lord Takumi present, other nations cannot threaten you. But having a great kingdom behind you will grant unimaginable convenience."
Rimuru hesitated.
He turned, quietly seeking Takumi's opinion.
Takumi smiled lightly.
Go on.
Rimuru inhaled deeply.
"I… would be honored."
Gazel's stern expression broke into a pleased grin.
"Good."
The two were about to formalize the agreement—
When the banquet doors opened.
A warm, gentle voice drifted in.
"Everyone, have I returned late?"
Rimuru jumped up.
"Mr. Kagaya! You're back!"
Kagaya Ubuyashiki entered with a serene smile, his steps silent, his presence calming.
Even Gazel stood.
"Kagaya. Your timing is impeccable."
Takumi smirked, waving lazily.
"Welcome back, old man. We almost started without you."
Kagaya chuckled softly.
"It seems the meeting progressed smoothly."
A Triangular Table of Power
The three sat: Takumi, Rimuru, Gazel.
Kagaya stood behind them like a neutral guardian.
This was the first time Dimensional City hosted a meeting between:
The ruler of the Dwarves
The leader of the Jura Forest Alliance
And Takumi, wielder of the Herrscher of Finality
Gazel spoke firmly.
"Takumi. Rimuru. Dwargon recognizes your city. But allow me to speak honestly: this world is changing, and too quickly."
He pointed subtly at Takumi.
"A man with your power… can overturn continents."
Takumi didn't deny it.
"I won't destroy this world. I intend to elevate it."
Gazel's brows furrowed.
"Elevate it… beyond what realm?"
Takumi leaned back casually.
"Beyond its dimension."
The hall fell silent.
Kagaya closed his eyes, as though accepting a truth he already foresaw.
Rimuru blinked.
"Takumi… you're serious!?"
Takumi nodded.
"My Civilization System aims for cross-dimensional civilization ranking. I will bring this world to a stage where no outer threat—even from another universe—can harm it."
Gazel let out a low whistle.
"You truly are a man out of legend."
Alliance Formation
Gazel finally stood.
"Then it is settled."
He extended his hand toward Rimuru.
"I, Gazel Dwargo, swear an alliance with the leader of the Jura Forest Alliance and the rising Dimensional City."
Rimuru extended his hand as well.
"I, Rimuru Tempest, accept the alliance with the Armed Nation Dwargon."
Their palms met.
Takumi's Civilization System triggered instantly.
[Diplomatic Network Node Established!]
[Reward: Tech Blueprint – Dimensional Embassy Hub Lv.2]
[Reward: Alliance Stability +20]
A faint ripple of Finality energy glimmered around Takumi.
Perfect. With this alliance, Dimensional City now has both legitimacy… and protection.
Kagaya smiled, clearly relieved.
"You two have made the correct choice."
Rimuru grinned.
"Of course! Takumi and I will build a peaceful world!"
Takumi: I never said peaceful… I said advanced.
After-Banquet — The King's Warning
After the feast ended, Gazel walked beside Takumi in the crystal-lit corridor.
"Takumi. A word of caution."
Takumi arched a brow.
"Speak."
"Your power will attract attention. Not from this world—but from those beyond it."
Takumi's expression grew cold.
"I welcome them."
Gazel chuckled dryly.
"I suspected you'd say that."
He placed a hand on Takumi's shoulder.
"As your ally, Dwargon will stand by you. But remember—great power brings great enemies."
Takumi smirked.
"Enemies exist to be erased."
Gazel's breath caught briefly.
This man… truly is a Finality incarnate.
The System's Whisper
As Takumi returned to his chambers, the Civilization System chimed.
[New Feature Unlocked: Alliance Influence Web]
[You are now recognized as a Dimensional-Level Civilization Candidate.]
Takumi's eyes glowed faintly gold.
"Herrscher of Finality… and now Dimensional Candidate. Not bad."
He looked over the balcony toward the glowing cityscape.
Floating drones patrolled.
Automated construction machines worked tirelessly.
Magic-tech reactors hummed.
Dimensional City was evolving.
Rimuru's Quiet Confession
As Takumi turned to head inside—
Rimuru stood there.
His face soft.
His aura unstable—still preparing for evolution.
"Takumi… thank you."
Takumi raised a brow.
"For what?"
"For letting me stand beside you today… not behind you."
Takumi smirked.
"You're still behind me. A little."
"Wh—HEY!"
Takumi laughed and patted his head.
"Don't worry. After you evolve, you'll catch up."
Rimuru's expression brightened slightly.
"…Then I'll evolve quickly. Wait for me."
Takumi nodded.
"I'll be right here."
As Rimuru left, the moonlight casting a glow on his back, Takumi whispered into the wind:
"Dimensional City… Rimuru… I will bring this world to heights never seen before."
And the city lights answered.