Rimuru: A Second Chance that Won't Be Wasted

Meeting and Promises

Treyni's ethereal hand slowly descended, delicately picking up one of the many chips available on the table in front of her. Quickly turning her hand, she faced the chip towards her as she slowly brought it towards her mouth.

*Chomp* *Crunch* *Munch*

A satisfied smile on her face, she then reached for another one. The process then repeated itself. Over and over again.

Rimuru, ignoring Treyni's obvious addiction to potato chips, prompted the conversation forward.

"So, what do you all believe the goals of the orcs are? Granted, it's to gather strength and eat the named ones of the forest, but what else? Why are they so hyper-focused on consuming things?"

"If I may interrupt, Lord of Monsters." announced Treyni, her face contorted into a look of disgust. "Every Orc Lord has a Unique Skill called {Starved}, with it's influence reaching all those that serve under him. Those affected by the skill devour all in sight, absorbing the strength and ability of those consumed."

She then opened her eyes and gazed at those around the table, before continuing.

"In other words, whatever they eat will cause them to evolve, making the entire army stronger, faster, depending on their diet. In return for this skill, the orcs develop an insatiable hunger, and continue to march in an endless search to satisfy it."

Rimuru kept his expression level and neutral, judging to see how his subordinates would react. Many wore the same neutral and level expression, with a few grimacing in disgust. It was to be expected, as Treyni had just confirmed their suspicions, albeit with more information about the cause of the issue.

"So...if the orcs ate a lizardman, would all members of the orc race gain the ability to swim as fast as them?" asked Shuna, participating in the conversation for the first time.

Treyni nodded, sipping at her tea with a face full of contemplation.

"Great...so if we are to fight against them, then we have to ensure that the orcs do not eat any of our allies, or we risk making the fight much more difficult..." mumbled Benimaru.

"Huh." thought Rimuru, making a quick observation during the short lull in conversation. "Benimaru didn't say that we could not have any casualties, just that the orcs could not eat any allies...looks like his tactical mind is showing itself once more."

"We have also recently confirmed that a majin by the name of Gelmud is involved with the appearance of the Orc Lord." said Treyni, putting down her cup of tea. "Lord of Monsters, please do not overlook him, as he is a subordinate of a demon lord."

"Then, I believe we may have to get involved." announced Rimuru, quickly using his political and charismatic persona. "An Orc Lord will no doubt target us, seeing as how we have Tempest Wolves, Kijin, and a majin with the Storm Crest. If a demon lord is eying the Jura Forest...well that's honestly fine. However, trying to control the Jura Forest through the Orc Lord makes me want to puke."

Rimuru then eyed all those around him.

"Are you all with me?" he asked.

He was greeted with several nods of agreement, and a few jumps of excitement from the more battle-crazy individuals.

"Very well! Then, Miss Treyni, I hereby accep-"

A sudden knock at the door interrupted the final verbal agreement between the two parties. It was followed the the slow creaking of the hinge. As all eyes went to the door, a raven-black hair woman with scars below her left eye slowly peeked through the now open door.