Snowbound Flames

Chapter 1: The Crimson Encounter

Rimuru Tempest, the first female Demon Lord of the Jura Tempest Federation, sat in her expansive office overlooking the vibrant landscape of her kingdom. The setting sun cast golden hues over the hills, as the wind rustled through the leaves of the lush forests outside. She stared absently at the stacks of reports on her desk, her mind wandering as she absentmindedly traced patterns in the papers with her finger.

Despite her calm and collected exterior, there were times when the weight of her responsibilities threatened to overwhelm her. Ruling the Federation wasn't as easy as it had seemed in the beginning, especially when the challenges were often less about external enemies and more about the politics within her own ranks. The careful balance of power, maintaining peace between the various species of monsters, and dealing with outside kingdoms who often had their own agendas had taken more of a toll than she liked to admit. Still, she remained unwavering in her determination to lead Tempest into an era of prosperity.

Her soft sigh echoed through the room, interrupted only by the steady tapping of her fingers on the desk.

"Rimuru-sama," a soft voice interrupted her thoughts.

Rimuru glanced up to see Shuna standing at the door, her expression calm but with a hint of concern. The elegant demoness was one of Rimuru's closest allies, a trusted advisor and dear friend.

"Is something the matter, Shuna?" Rimuru asked, raising an eyebrow.

"There is a visitor," Shuna said, her tone measured. "A very... unusual one, to be precise."

Rimuru's brow furrowed. "Unusual? Who is it?"

"Demon Lord Guy Crimson," Shuna replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Rimuru froze at the name. Guy Crimson was one of the most infamous Demon Lords in the world. His power and influence were unparalleled, and his chaotic nature made him a figure of both awe and fear. Rimuru had met him only a handful of times during various diplomatic meetings, but each encounter left her with mixed feelings. On the surface, Guy was charming and charismatic, yet there was always an undercurrent of unpredictability that made Rimuru wary.

"Guy Crimson?" Rimuru echoed, her voice barely above a whisper. "Why is he here?"

Shuna's gaze softened slightly. "He didn't explain. But he specifically requested to speak with you."

Rimuru leaned back in her chair, folding her arms across her chest. "I see..." She hesitated, then looked up at Shuna. "Send him in."

Shuna nodded and stepped aside, allowing Guy to enter.

Guy Crimson entered the room like a storm, his crimson cloak flowing around him, and his aura radiating raw power. His intense crimson eyes locked onto Rimuru's, a playful glint in them that was both alluring and dangerous.

"Rimuru Tempest," Guy said, his voice rich with amusement. "The ruler of Tempest herself. It's an honor." He bowed dramatically, though there was something teasing in his posture.

Rimuru straightened in her seat, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied him. "Guy Crimson. To what do I owe the honor of this visit?"

"Oh, nothing much," Guy said with a shrug, his smirk widening. "I was simply passing through the area and thought I'd stop by and see how the mighty Rimuru was doing. You've been busy, I hear."

Rimuru's expression remained neutral, but internally, she felt a prickling sense of unease. Guy's casual tone didn't fool her; she could sense the hidden agenda behind his words.

"You've been hearing rumors, then?" Rimuru asked, her voice even but laced with suspicion. "And here I thought you only cared about your kingdom, Guy. You're quite the wanderer, aren't you?"