Snowbound Flames

Chapter 18: The Making Of The Battle Arena And The Dungeon

The soft clinking of metal echoed through the corridors as Rimuru, Guy, and a small group of workers made their way through the newly-constructed area. It had taken time, but the Battle Arena was finally starting to take shape. The foundation was solid, with high walls designed to withstand the force of even the most intense battles, and a central platform where combatants would face off.

Orcs—led by their strong and loyal king, Geld—were overseeing the construction, adding a layer of muscle to the already impressive teamwork of Tempest's finest. The construction was no easy feat, but with their combined strength, it was progressing smoothly.

"Looking good," Rimuru remarked, inspecting the large arena. She could already picture it filled with cheering crowds, watching powerful warriors compete for the title of champion. "This should be a great venue for tournaments. I think we'll have both locals and guests coming to watch."

"Indeed," Guy said, his deep voice carrying an air of approval. "It's quite an impressive sight. Geld and his people have done well."

Geld, the Orc King, was standing at the far end of the arena, instructing his subordinates on the finer points of reinforcing the arena's structure. He turned and waved upon seeing Rimuru approach.

"Ah, Rimuru-sama!" Geld's booming voice carried across the space. He was a large figure, his physique a testament to the Orcs' strength and fortitude. "We've made good progress! The foundation is sturdy, and we're almost done with the inner walls. I'm sure this arena will serve as a great place for all types of tournaments."

Rimuru smiled. "You and your people have done a fantastic job, Geld. This will be a place for everyone to test their strength, whether it's for fun or for serious battles."

Guy looked around, clearly impressed by the sheer size of the arena. "I must admit, I didn't expect Tempest to have such a grand structure. I can see why you've put so much effort into this, Rimuru."

"It's not just for show," Rimuru replied, a mischievous glint in her eye. "It'll give our subordinates a chance to test their skills and improve. And who knows, maybe we'll get some interesting challengers from other nations as well."

"Well, if it's going to be a place for grand battles, it's only fitting that we have a worthy Dungeon to match," Guy mused. "Shall we head there next?"

Rimuru nodded. "Exactly. Ramiris has been overseeing the construction of the Dungeon, and I want to make sure everything is coming along. Let's head over there."

The Dungeon was located at the heart of Tempest, its vast entrance hidden by a veil of magic. As Rimuru, Guy, and the others entered, they could immediately feel the dense magical energy radiating from within. The Dungeon was no longer just a place of mystery—it was becoming a real, tangible part of Tempest's future.

"Ah! Rimuru! Guy!" Ramiris's voice rang out as she floated down from the ceiling, her wings fluttering excitedly. "You're here! Perfect timing!"

"Ramiris, how's everything going?" Rimuru asked, crossing her arms. "Are we ready for the official opening?"

"Of course! The Dungeon is nearly complete! It's even more marvelous than I imagined!" Ramiris beamed, clearly pleased with the results. She floated over to a nearby wall, tapping it gently with her hand. The walls shimmered with magic as if alive, reflecting her approval.

Guy eyed the walls with interest. "Impressive," he commented. "It seems to be well-protected. I assume you've accounted for any threats that might emerge from within?"

Ramiris nodded enthusiastically. "Oh, absolutely! This Dungeon will be a place for adventurers to test their mettle, just like the Battle Arena. But with the added challenge of unpredictable monsters and traps!"

Rimuru smiled. "That's the spirit. A little unpredictability will keep things exciting."

As the group continued to explore the Dungeon's winding paths and expanding chambers, Ramiris grew more animated, explaining each section's design. The Dungeon was to be a living, evolving space, one that could grow in difficulty and complexity as the challengers progressed.

Guy, though impressed by the Dungeon's potential, was more interested in something else. "So, when is it all officially opening? I'm assuming you've got something special planned, Rimuru."

Rimuru chuckled. "Of course. The opening will coincide with the Founder's Festival. That way, we can showcase the Dungeon to the rest of Tempest and our guests. And who knows? Maybe some of them will want to try their luck."

"That sounds like fun," Guy mused, a grin spreading across his face. "I might take a stroll through the Dungeon myself."

"Please, try not to break anything while you're in there," Rimuru said with a laugh. "I'm sure you'll find it interesting, but let's not destroy the place just yet."

Ramiris, overhearing their conversation, raised her voice in protest. "I don't think you need to worry about that! I've designed this place to be both fun and challenging! It'll be perfect for everyone."

As they made their way through the Dungeon's chambers, Rimuru decided it was time to visit Veldora and Milim.

The Hundredth Floor of the Dungeon was a majestic sight—an entire floor dedicated to Veldora, who had taken up residence there since his release from the Void. It had been modified to fit his enormous size, with rooms built to accommodate his dragon form and humanoid form , as well as a large area where he could interact with others comfortably.

As Rimuru and Guy entered, they found Milim lounging on the floor near the entrance. She glanced up at the sound of their footsteps and immediately flashed them a bright, teasing grin.

"Well, well, look who finally showed up," Milim said, sitting up and brushing her hair back with a casual flick. "What's the occasion? Coming to visit the great Veldora?"

Veldora's booming voice echoed from deeper within the chamber. "Rimuru! Guy! Come, come! You've arrived just in time!"

"Right on cue," Rimuru murmured, walking deeper into the chamber. Guy followed behind, raising an eyebrow at Milim's behavior.

They soon reached the inner sanctum, where Veldora was sitting atop a pile of luxurious cushions, looking as regal as ever.

"So, what's all this about?" Guy asked, crossing his arms. "You don't usually invite us to your cozy little lair without a reason."

Veldora gave him a wide, toothy grin. "I wanted to see how Tempest's finest are doing, of course! You've been so busy lately, I thought I should offer a moment of rest!"

Milim grinned, clearly enjoying the atmosphere. "Yeah, yeah, but I've been wondering about something. You two..." She pointed directly at Rimuru and Guy. "Are you dating?"

Rimuru blinked in surprise. "What?!"

"Dating?!" Guy echoed, his eyebrow quirked in amusement.

Milim leaned back, clearly enjoying the discomfort she was causing. "Well, you're always together. You never leave each other's sides. It's kind of obvious."

Rimuru's face flushed. "We're just... working together. Nothing more."

Guy's expression remained unreadable, but there was a faint, almost imperceptible smirk on his face. "Is that what this is about, Rimuru? I wasn't aware that our alliance was of such interest to others."

Before Rimuru could respond, Ramiris floated into the room, a glint of curiosity in her eyes. "Oh? Is there something going on between you two?"

Milim's grin grew wider. "See? I told you they were an item!"

Rimuru stammered, her face turning even redder. "It's not like that! We're just friends—partners—working together for the future of Tempest!"

Guy's smirk deepened. "Partners in every sense of the word."

Ramiris giggled mischievously, clearly enjoying the scene. "Well, well, it seems I have questions of my own now!"

As the playful teasing continued, Rimuru realized that perhaps she and Guy's relationship had become more complicated than she had originally thought. But for now, there was still work to do, and the Dungeon—along with their plans for the future—was calling.