Manas: Veldanava (ON HOLD)

Chapter 4: The King of Stars and The Conqueror of Flames

Rimuru POV

After meeting up with Rigur, we finally went back to the village. The speed of the direwolves caused the dwarves to not only freak out, but also pass out. It had been only about two weeks since I left, but I was seriously starting to miss it a little. Assuming you wanted to call it a village at all. It was more of an empty space with a fence around it.

While we were gone, a few simple tents had been pitched around the area. There were signs of progress, at least. I spotted a large iron pot situated over the remains of the central campfire. Goblin cuisine used to be all about spit-roasting—but now they'd added simmering to the mix!

This was a truly remarkable development. Where'd they get that thing? Taking a closer look, I realized it was fashioned from the shell of a big turtle. 

Rimuru: 'Man, how much did they expand their hunting grounds while I was gone?' I was glad they'd kept their home base safe, at least.

The resident hobgoblins spotted our returning party quickly, greeting us with cheers and applause. I had rudely forgotten to bring souvenirs, but given the monster pelts and such I spotted drying here and there—proceeds from their hunting, no doubt—I was sure the dwarves would have everyone kitted up and clothed before long. 

Rimuru: 'I'd like the goblins to make that stuff themselves later, but let's take it one step at a time.'

//Indeed. Patience is an extraordinary virtue that undoubtedly bestows remarkable rewards.\\

How philosophical.

I tried looking around for Rigurd, so I could introduce the dwarves to him. I didn't need to. He ran right up to me. I thought he was just excited to see us, but he had something bothering him instead.

Rigurd: "Welcome back!" he said before I could ask.

Rigurd: "I hate to bother you so soon after returning, Sir Rimuru, but we have visitors..."

Rimuru: 'Visitors? ...But I don't remember having any friends.'

//The way you say that, it sounds so sad...\\ 

Yeah...it does...

Rimuru: 'Wait, I do have a friend! I have Veldora as a friend!' I thought. That's right. Veldora is my friend! And I will free him soon.

//That's the spirit, Rimuru-sama.\\

Anyway, I decided to let the dwarves show themselves around. They'd be living here for a while, and I was sure they were curious to see what it was like. I also stowed the tools I'd brought along in an empty tent, figuring the covering would at least offer some protection against the elements.

Leaving our new residents to Rigur, I had the elder guide me to our guests. He led me to one of the larger tents, which had been converted into a sort of meeting room.

Rimuru: 'Who could it be? I guess I'll find out.' I thought as I walked in.

Once I passed the flap, I stopped. Inside were a bunch of goblins —the regular kind. Several of them were well-dressed, each one accompanied by a handful of servants. Some elders and their guards, maybe? Nobody was armed. Not that I minded that.

Before I could ask what was up, the goblins prostrated themselves on the floor.

//Oh no, not this again!\\ 

I felt Velda facepalming for some reason.

Goblins: "It is an honor to meet you, Oh great master!'""' They all shouted in unison.