Snowbound Flames

Chapter 19: The Unexpected Boom

The sun hung high over Tempest, its golden rays casting a warm glow across the bustling city. It was the day before the Founder's Festival, and the entire town had come alive with activity. Stalls were being set up along every street, each one offering a variety of goods—trinkets, food, and more. The air was thick with the sounds of chatter, the clinking of metal, and the occasional burst of laughter. It was a day of excitement, anticipation, and preparation.

Rimuru walked through the streets with Guy at her side, her eyes scanning the rows of stalls. She had always appreciated the energy of a festival, and Tempest's first Founder's Festival was something she had been looking forward to for a long time.

"This is going to be amazing," Rimuru said, taking in the sight of everything being set up. "I can't believe how much Tempest has grown. It feels like just yesterday we were still a small village."

Guy glanced around, his expression softening as he observed the vibrant atmosphere. "Yes, it's incredible. The people of Tempest have truly embraced your vision, Rimuru."

They strolled through the streets, pausing here and there to chat with the vendors or admire the decorations. It wasn't long before they reached a large stall selling handmade crafts and jewelry. Rimuru took a moment to browse, her fingers grazing over the intricate designs of the necklaces and bracelets.

"Do you think I should get one of these for Milim?" Rimuru asked, holding up a silver necklace with a delicate dragon pendant.

Guy raised an eyebrow. "Milim might not appreciate the gesture, considering her rather... chaotic personality."

Rimuru grinned. "True, but it wouldn't hurt to try, right?"

The two continued their leisurely walk, taking in the sights of the festival. Guy's presence was calm and steady, a silent strength that Rimuru appreciated in moments like these. He had been a great help in organizing the event, making sure everything ran smoothly behind the scenes.

As the day wore on, Rimuru felt the weight of her responsibilities catching up with her. She had spent hours reviewing documents, coordinating with her subordinates, and finalizing the details of the festival. Though she enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the preparations, she couldn't ignore the growing exhaustion that tugged at her.

"I think it's time to head back to my office," Rimuru said, stifling a yawn. "There's still some paperwork I need to finish."

Guy nodded. "Of course. I'll accompany you."

The two made their way back to Rimuru's office, a cozy room located on the top floor of the castle. The walls were lined with bookshelves, and the large window offered a stunning view of Tempest. Rimuru sank into her chair, the familiar scent of parchment and ink filling the air.

"I'll just finish up these last few things," Rimuru said, picking up a stack of papers. "It shouldn't take long."

Guy stood by the door, his arms crossed as he watched her work. "If you need anything, just call for me."

Rimuru nodded absently, her focus now entirely on the documents before her. Hours passed in a blur of paperwork, each page more tedious than the last. Her eyelids grew heavy, and despite her best efforts to stay alert, she could feel herself drifting.

Four hours later, Rimuru's head sank forward, her eyes closing as she succumbed to the exhaustion that had been building all day. The papers she had been holding slipped from her fingers and fluttered to the desk below her. She had been working so hard that she hadn't noticed how much time had passed, and now she was utterly drained.

As the minutes ticked by, the sounds of the festival outside grew faint, replaced by the soft hum of the castle's inner workings. The room was quiet, peaceful, and before she knew it, Rimuru was fast asleep, her body slumped over the desk in a comfortable, if slightly awkward, position.