Chapter 59: Ogre Village II
As Rimuru followed the village chief, his son, and the guard through the village, he couldn't help but admire the surroundings. The Ogre village was nestled in the heart of a lush forest, with cherry blossom trees scattered among the traditional-style buildings. The houses were strikingly reminiscent of Japanese architecture, with curved rooftops, wooden beams, and sliding paper doors. Small stone lanterns dotted the pathways, giving the area a serene, almost sacred atmosphere.
Ogres in the village stopped what they were doing and stared at Rimuru with wary eyes, their postures tense as they whispered among themselves. Rimuru caught snippets of conversations.
"Is that really a human?"
"He doesn't look hostile, but still…"
"Why would someone come here now, of all times?"
Ignoring their stares, Rimuru continued to follow the chief, who led him to one of the larger houses in the village. The building's size and intricate design indicated it was the home of someone important, likely the chief's residence. The wooden porch creaked slightly under their footsteps, and Rimuru noticed decorative tapestries hanging by the entrance, featuring symbols that resembled family crests.
Inside, the room was spacious and modestly furnished. A low wooden table stood in the center, surrounded by tatami mats. A few weapons, including finely crafted katanas and spears, were displayed on the walls, showcasing the Ogres' warrior culture. Sitting by the table was an older-looking Ogre, his hair silver and tied into a bun. His sharp eyes scanned Rimuru with a mixture of suspicion and curiosity.
Next to the chief, a dignified Ogre lady with a graceful air sat silently, her calm demeanor suggesting she was the chief's wife. She glanced at Rimuru with a piercing yet composed gaze. Moments later, a pink-haired Ogre walked in, carrying a tray of tea. She was cheerful and polite, bowing slightly before setting the tea down in front of everyone.
By the door stood another Ogre, and Rimuru's attention was immediately drawn to her striking appearance. She had long flowing hair, a stunningly beautiful face, and a curvaceous figure. Her impressive physique was emphasized by the fitted armor she wore, and a massive sword rested casually on her back. Her aura was powerful and commanding, yet she remained silent, her sharp eyes studying Rimuru's every move.
The chief gestured for Rimuru to sit, and Rimuru settled himself comfortably on one of the mats. The chief took a seat across from him, his expression unreadable. "Now, then," he began, his voice calm but firm, "you said you weren't human. So, what are you?"
Rimuru smiled, deciding it was better to be straightforward. "I'm a slime," he said casually, enjoying the flicker of disbelief that crossed their faces.
"A slime?" the younger Ogre, the chief's son, repeated, his voice laced with skepticism. "You mean the weakest type of monster?"
The chief raised an eyebrow but remained composed. "That's a bold claim. A slime with power enough to radiate Veldora's aura is unheard of."
"Seeing is believing," Rimuru replied. With that, he transformed into his slime form. His body shrank into a smooth, translucent blue sphere that gleamed softly under the room's light. The Ogres' eyes widened in shock.
"That… That's impossible!" the older Ogre exclaimed, leaning forward. "A slime with intelligence? And this much power? The world truly is full of surprises."
The chief's wife glanced at her husband, her calm facade cracking slightly as curiosity crept into her expression. "I've never heard of such a thing," she murmured.
The female Ogre by the door shifted her stance, her hand instinctively resting on her sword's hilt. "A slime, yet able to transform into a human form? Such abilities aren't natural," she said, her voice sharp but steady.
Rimuru chuckled, quickly transforming back into his human form. "I get that reaction a lot. But yes, I'm a slime. And as you can see, I'm no ordinary one. I've gained unique abilities through... certain circumstances."
The chief leaned back, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "You certainly defy expectations. If someone had told me this without seeing it for myself, I would've dismissed them as fools. But here you are." He paused, his sharp gaze locking onto Rimuru. "Still, a slime—or anyone for that matter—claiming to act on behalf of Veldora is no small matter. Why would the Storm Dragon entrust a task as significant as protecting the forest to someone like you?"
Rimuru's expression turned serious. "Because Veldora saw potential in me. Before he left, he entrusted me with the responsibility of maintaining order in this forest. I've already started uniting the monsters under one banner, and I intend to ensure the safety of everyone here—Ogres included. That's why I'm here."
The chief's son frowned. "And why should we trust you? For all we know, you could be lying to us."
Rimuru raised a hand, silencing him. "I understand your doubts. I'd be suspicious too. But I'm offering an alliance, not empty promises. The forest is in chaos right now, and it's only a matter of time before more powerful enemies show up. Together, we can prepare for whatever threats come our way."
The chief studied Rimuru in silence for a long moment, his eyes narrowing slightly as he weighed his options. Finally, he spoke, his tone cautious. "Your words carry weight, and your power is undeniable. But trust is not something we give lightly. If you wish to prove your intentions, you'll have to help us eliminate the threat that has been attacking our village."
Rimuru nodded without hesitation. "Fair enough. Tell me everything about these attackers, and I'll take care of it."
The chief exchanged a glance with his wife, who gave a subtle nod. "Very well," he said. "Let us discuss the details."
As the conversation continued, Rimuru listened carefully, already formulating a plan with Great Sage to deal with the threat quickly and efficiently. The Ogres were strong allies, and he wasn't about to let this opportunity slip through his fingers.