Rimuru the sin of love

Questioning the unknown 2

Merlin POV:

(Rimuru seems to have a deep understanding of her race, even though she mentioned that understanding shifters has been problematic for others in the past. If she is truly the last of her kind, how does she know so much? Her knowledge about the differences in forms and the political aspects is fascinating. This might also explain why shifters were hunted by the goddesses and demons—they would be less powerful if they tried to gain power like Rimuru.)

(If what she says is true, she should have much more power than she reveals. Shifters are supposed to be passive by nature, so why is she so driven to become stronger and gain knowledge? She even starts plotting and scheming to get what she wants.)

(Then there's the whole issue of gender. Why not conform to other races? It's fascinating but also frustrating since there's no way I can ask about everything. She's been talking non-stop; I think I even missed part of it. I'll have to review everything later.)

"Because I am now the shifter who has spent the most time in my physical state, I am considered royalty among my people. Even when the shifters regain their physical forms after our deity becomes active again, I will still be the longest in this state by default. As I mentioned before, once you regain your physical form, you essentially reset your life. Do you have any more questions?" she said.

"So, how does that impact your life? You don't seem to fit the typical royal image," I asked. She thought for a moment. "You're right. As it stands, I represent my entire race. I have access to all our resources but no one to teach me about them. That's why I don't conform to the usual royal stereotypes."

"Don't misunderstand me; I still care deeply about my people and feel responsible for learning everything there is to know about us. I need to be ready to lead my people when they regain their physical forms. I'll be responsible for teaching our ways, finding our deity, and maintaining our alliances."

"For example, the pact with the fairies allows us to access our fairy form if we need it. In return, we help them when needed. Personally, I'm fond of the current fairy king and proud to call him my friend," Rimuru said with a smile. I was surprised—she's friends with the fairy king? Given her status, it makes sense, but it's still impressive.

That made me wonder, "What are your connections with royalty?" She started laughing. I didn't see what was so funny about that question. After a while, she calmed down. "Sorry for laughing. Just before I came here, I was moving from one royal court to another, and it all happened in just a few weeks. Before that, I didn't know anyone well enough to call a friend."

"But to answer your question, I'm dating a demon prince, and his brother is my favorite person to tease. Then there's the Demon King, with whom I've established a somewhat loose but not hostile connection. The Demon King and his brother are unaware of what I'm withholding; that's my only leverage to keep the peace. The fairy king is my first real friend and has been very helpful."

"I've also received the blessing of the Sacred Tree, which is considered a form of royalty among the fairies. I still need to meet the leader of the giant race, and I'm planning to visit the goddess realm within the next few days. That's why I'm talking with you about your questions now. Consider it a parting gift for all your help these past weeks," she said with a sad smile. I couldn't help but return it.

She may be the only person I didn't mind being around here, and now she'll be leaving. This means she won't be able to help me with new spells anymore. She looked deep in thought, then a smug smile appeared on her face. "Would you like to get gifts for the Demon King and the Supreme Deity?" she asked.

She was plotting again, but the idea intrigued me. If anyone else had suggested it, I might have dismissed it, but Rimuru is no ordinary person. Her idea had merit. "What are you planning this time?" I asked, curious.

"You know there's going to be a war, right?" she asked innocently. While it's common knowledge that there's tension and frequent fighting, a full-scale war is a different matter. "So what does that have to do with anything?" I decided to let her explain first.

"Well, you're a unique mage, even by this place's standards. If both sides knew that a powerful mage hadn't chosen a side yet, they would both want to recruit you. And you could use that to your advantage. Do you see my point?" she said dramatically.

Her plan was reasonable. I would have thought of something similar if the news reached them. We seem to think alike in such situations. Having her help with this plan would be advantageous, especially with her connections and the ability to transform into a goddess unknown to them.

"I like the way you think. It will be less interesting here without you," I said honestly. She made this place livelier and never failed to keep things interesting. Teaching her magic was enjoyable, and having her as an apprentice was not bad at all.

I hope we meet again—knowing her, we probably will. After discussing some less important matters, she told me we would see each other again when I needed her most. (Is she a mind reader or something?) Then she left, and the staff here began to panic as if they were facing imminent danger.

I wondered what could have caused their reaction. Unsure of their thoughts, I resumed reading my book, reflecting on the day's events.