Snowbound Flames

Chapter 25: Thanksgiving (Special)

The sun peeked over the horizon, bathing Tempest in a golden glow. Rimuru stood on the balcony of her castle, taking in the serene view. Behind her, Guy emerged, already dressed for the day but wearing his usual air of detached elegance.

"Morning, Guy," Rimuru greeted cheerfully.

Guy raised an eyebrow at her chipper tone. "You seem unusually energetic this morning. What's the occasion?"

Rimuru turned to face him with a grin. "Today's a special day. It's Thanksgiving."

Guy blinked. "Thanksgiving? And what exactly are we giving thanks for?"

"Well," Rimuru began, "it's a tradition from my old world. A day to reflect on what we're grateful for, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy good food. I think Tempest could use something like that, don't you?"

Guy smirked. "You're really trying to turn this place into a utopia, aren't you?"

"Hey, what's wrong with that?" Rimuru retorted, crossing her arms. "Anyway, I'm making today a celebration. Let's go announce it."

Together, they headed to the main square, where a crowd of citizens and subordinates quickly gathered after hearing Rimuru's call. Standing atop a raised platform, Rimuru raised her hand to quiet the murmurs.

"Good morning, everyone!" Rimuru began, her voice ringing clear. "Today, we're celebrating something new—Thanksgiving! It's a day to appreciate everything we have, the friends we've made, and the community we've built together. So, let's make this a day of joy, fun, and, of course, food!"

The crowd erupted into cheers, though a few confused murmurs could be heard.

"Uh, Rimuru-sama," Gobta called out from the front. "What's Thanksgiving exactly?"

"It's... kind of like a day to reflect on what you're grateful for," Rimuru explained. "Think of it as a chance to relax and have fun with everyone!"

Satisfied, Gobta nodded, and the crowd broke into applause again.

The town quickly became a hive of activity. Decorations were strung up across the streets—garlands of autumn leaves, lanterns, and colorful banners. The cooks, led by Shuna, began preparing a feast in the castle kitchens. The tantalizing aroma of roasted vegetables, freshly baked bread, and simmering soups wafted through the air.

Rimuru, meanwhile, returned to her office to tackle some paperwork. Guy, as usual, lounged nearby, offering the occasional sarcastic comment as Rimuru worked.

"You know," Guy said lazily, "for someone who claims this is a day of relaxation, you sure don't look very relaxed."

"I'm trying to finish this before lunch," Rimuru replied, not looking up from her papers. "The sooner I'm done, the sooner I can enjoy the festivities."

Guy chuckled. "Fair enough. Don't overwork yourself."

By midday, everyone gathered in the castle courtyard for a special lunch. The cooks had outdone themselves, preparing an array of dishes—grilled fish, hearty stews, and sweet pastries. While the turkey was reserved for dinner, the feast was already enough to leave everyone satisfied.

After lunch, the games began. The townsfolk and subordinates competed in races, treasure hunts, and even a tug-of-war. Shion was surprisingly competitive, much to everyone's amusement, while Benimaru and Hakurou faced off in a sparring match that drew a large crowd.

Rimuru and Guy, however, found themselves in a quieter corner, seated at a table with a chessboard between them.

"You know how to play?" Rimuru asked, setting up the pieces.

Guy smirked. "I've lived for thousands of years. Do you really think I've never played chess before?"

The game began, and the two quickly became engrossed in their moves. Guy played with calm precision, while Rimuru employed unorthodox strategies that kept him on his toes.

"You're not bad," Guy admitted as he took one of Rimuru's knights.

"Not bad? I'm amazing!" Rimuru countered, grinning as she put his queen in check.

The match ended in a close victory, though who won was less important than the friendly banter that accompanied it.

As evening fell, everyone gathered for the Thanksgiving dinner. Long tables were set up in the banquet hall, decorated with candles and centerpieces made of autumn leaves and flowers. The centerpiece of the feast was the massive roasted turkey, surrounded by sides of hotpot swordfish, sushi, and an array of traditional Tempest dishes.

The atmosphere was warm and lively as everyone enjoyed the meal, sharing stories and laughter. Toward the end of dinner, Diablo leaned forward with a mischievous grin.

"Rimuru-sama," he began, his crimson eyes gleaming. "I've noticed you and Guy have been spending quite a lot of time together lately."

The room quieted as everyone turned their attention to Rimuru and Guy.

"So?" Rimuru asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I think what Diablo means to ask," Shuna interjected gently, "is whether there's something... special between you two."

Rimuru nearly choked on her drink. "W-What? No, of course not! We're just friends!"

Guy, ever composed, smirked. "Why does everyone keep asking that? Can't two powerful individuals enjoy each other's company without everyone jumping to conclusions?"

The table erupted into laughter, though Rimuru's face remained red for the rest of the meal.

The Balcony Conversation

Later that night, Rimuru and Guy stood on the balcony, gazing out at the quiet town. The stars shone brightly overhead, and the faint sound of music drifted up from the streets below.

"So," Rimuru said, breaking the comfortable silence, "how was today?"

Guy glanced at her, his expression thoughtful. "It was... different. But not bad. I can see why you wanted to do this Thanksgiving thing. It brought everyone together."

Rimuru smiled. "I'm glad you enjoyed it. It's nice to take a break from all the serious stuff every now and then."

Guy nodded, his crimson eyes reflecting the starlight. "You really are something else, Rimuru."

Rimuru chuckled, leaning on the balcony railing. "Coming from you, I'll take that as a compliment."

The two stood in companionable silence, the cool night air wrapping around them as they watched over the peaceful city of Tempest.