Snowbound Flames

Chapter 17: The Invitation To Founder's Festival

The warm glow of late afternoon sunlight bathed Rimuru's office, spilling across the cluttered desk laden with stacks of parchment, ink bottles, and an array of elegant seals. Preparations for the Founder's Festival were well underway, and now came one of the most delicate tasks: sending out the invitations.

"Rimuru-sama," Shion said, standing at attention beside the desk, her excitement barely contained. "Are you sure you don't need me to handle the writing? I've been practicing!"

Rimuru blinked, recalling the... creative disasters Shion's previous attempts had produced. "Uh, thanks, Shion, but I think I'll handle this one myself."

From the corner of the room, Diablo smirked. "An excellent decision, my lord. This task requires a level of precision and elegance that... not everyone possesses."

Shion huffed but stepped back, muttering something about showing them one day.

Leaning over the desk, Rimuru picked up the first parchment. "Alright, let's start with Hinata and the Western Holy Church. We'll need to make it formal but not overly stiff."

Guy Crimson lounged on a nearby sofa, his crimson eyes glittering with amusement. "Formal? That doesn't sound like you, Rimuru. Just tell them to show up and enjoy themselves."

"Yeah, because that's exactly how you'd handle diplomacy," Rimuru shot back, rolling her eyes.

"I would," Guy said with a grin. "And it works."

Ignoring him, Rimuru began to write, the pen gliding smoothly across the parchment:

To Hinata Sakaguchi, Head Knight of the Western Holy Church,

In the spirit of mutual understanding and growing cooperation between our nations, I am pleased to invite you to the Founder's Festival, a celebration of Tempest's achievements and the bonds we continue to forge.

The event will include various festivities, opportunities for diplomatic discussions, and, of course, excellent food. Your presence would honor us and further strengthen the alliance we have begun to build.

We eagerly await your reply.

With respect,
Rimuru Tempest

Rimuru set down the pen, satisfied. "Alright, one down. Now for Luminus."

"Let me guess," Guy said, smirking. "You're going to make it even fancier for her?"

"She is a queen," Rimuru replied.

Guy snorted. "She's a drama queen, but fine, let's see what you've got."

With a sigh, Rimuru began writing again:

To Luminus Valentine, Queen of Nightmares and Ruler of Lubelius,

It is with great anticipation and respect that I extend an invitation to the Founder's Festival in Tempest. Your wisdom and leadership have been invaluable to our growing alliance, and your presence would elevate this event to new heights.

The festivities promise to be both entertaining and meaningful, and I hope they will provide a chance for us to deepen the bonds between our nations.

We look forward to welcoming you to Tempest.

With highest regard,
Rimuru Tempest

Guy laughed as Rimuru finished. "You're really laying it on thick, aren't you?"

"Diplomacy, Guy," Rimuru replied. "You should try it sometime."

Guy waved a hand dismissively. "I prefer a more straightforward approach. Speaking of which, what about the Elf Queen? You're not going to butter her up like this, are you?"

"Elmesia," Rimuru corrected. "And no, she's more casual."

Rimuru began crafting the next letter, keeping the tone light and friendly:

To Her Majesty, Elmesia El Ru Thalion, Empress of Thalion,

I hope this message finds you well. Tempest is holding its inaugural Founder's Festival, and it would be an honor to have you and Erald attend as our distinguished guests.

The festival will be a time for celebration, connection, and, most importantly, fun! I know you'll enjoy what we've planned, and I'm looking forward to seeing you again.

Let me know if you can make it.

Warm regards,
Rimuru

The next few letters followed quickly, each tailored to its recipient.

For King Gazel Dwargon, Rimuru emphasized their strong bond and mutual respect:

To His Majesty, King Gazel Dwargon, Ruler of Dwargon,

Your friendship and counsel have been a cornerstone of Tempest's journey. It would mean a great deal to have you with us at the Founder's Festival as we celebrate our growth and the alliances that have brought us here.

Please join us for this momentous occasion. Your wisdom and strength will always have a place in Tempest.

Yours sincerely,
Rimuru Tempest

For Youm and Myulan the tone was much more relaxed.

To Youm and Myulan, Heroes of Tempest,

Hey Youm, Myulan!

We're throwing a huge festival in Tempest to celebrate everything we've achieved, and you're invited! I know you'll love the food, the games, and the atmosphere. Plus, it's a great chance to catch up.

Let me know if you're coming—we'll save the best seats for you!

Cheers,
Rimuru

As Rimuru worked, Guy observed in silence, an odd look of amusement and something else—perhaps admiration—flickering across his face.

By the time the last letter was sealed, Rimuru leaned back with a sigh of relief. "Finally. That took forever."

"Not bad," Guy said, standing and stretching lazily. "For someone who prefers to settle things with brute force, you've got a decent diplomatic touch."

"Thanks... I think?" Rimuru replied, shooting him a wary glance.

At that moment, Shion entered the room, carrying a tray of tea and snacks. "My lord, you've been working hard. Please take a break!"

As Rimuru gratefully accepted a cup of tea, Diablo stepped forward, holding out a black envelope.

"My lord, if I may suggest, I believe it would be appropriate to send a formal invitation to the other Demon Lords as well. Especially Ramiris, Milim, Frey, and Carrion, considering their unique positions."

Rimuru nodded. "Good point. I'll take care of that next. Let's hope Milim doesn't 'accidentally' destroy her invitation before she even reads it."

Guy laughed. "Knowing her, that's entirely possible."

As the group shared a rare moment of levity, the importance of the task they had just completed settled over Rimuru. These invitations weren't just pieces of paper—they were symbols of trust, friendship, and a shared vision for the future.

And with the Founder's Festival drawing ever closer, Rimuru could only hope that those bonds would continue to strengthen.