True God In Another World (Tensura x Tbate)

Chapter 107 - Alex

Rimuru POV

After speaking with Aldir, I wandered around the castle, letting my thoughts settle. The familiar stone corridors and magical torches hadn't changed much since I'd last been here. The constancy was almost comforting, given how much else had shifted during my absence.

I found myself a cup of coffee - a small luxury I'd genuinely missed during training - before heading out onto one of the terraces. The floating castle was truly a marvel of ancient mages craft, similar to Xyrus in its construction, though no one seemed to know exactly when or how it was built. The view from up here was breathtaking, the clouds drifting lazily below us while the sun painted the sky in warm hues.

I leaned against the railing, sipping my coffee and admiring the architecture. The craftsmanship was exquisite, reminding me of projects I'd like to undertake someday. The thought of building something similar brought a small smile to my face.

My peaceful moment was interrupted by the approach of two distinct mana signatures - powerful ones, probably the strongest currently on this continent, excluding the asuras of course. I didn't need to turn around to know who they were.

"Rimuru!" Mica's cheerful voice rang out as she bounded across the terrace, her childlike appearance creating an almost comical contrast with the waves of power rolling off her. "Mica has been looking everywhere for you!"

"Has she now?" I smiled, watching as the diminutive Lance practically skipped to my side. Her curly hair bounced with each step, and despite everything that had changed, her energetic personality remained refreshingly constant. It was hard to believe this small figure was one of the continent's most powerful warriors.

I glanced at Varay, who stood slightly apart, her posture as formal as ever. The scar above her right brow seemed more pronounced than I remembered, and her white hair caught the evening light in a way that enhanced her ice queen reputation. Her gray eyes were already studying me with that analytical gaze she was known for.

"Lance Varay," I acknowledged with a respectful nod, hiding my amusement at her perpetually serious demeanor.

"Rimuru Leywin," she replied, her tone carrying that familiar mix of formality and careful assessment.

"Mica missed you sooooo much!" Mica declared, hopping onto the terrace railing with casual grace that would make most acrobats jealous. "You've been so busy lately, you barely have time to play anymore!"

I tried not to wince, knowing she was referring to interactions with my impersonators. Great, another mess to deal with. "I've had... a lot on my plate."

"Too busy for your friend?" She pouted, swinging her legs like the child she appeared to be. The sight would have been adorable if I wasn't already dreading what was coming. "Even after you promised to duel me yesterday!"

Wait, what?

"I... what?" I blinked, my coffee suddenly forgotten in my hand.

"You promised!" Mica insisted, her childlike face lighting up like a festival lantern. "You said, 'Tomorrow at sunset, we'll have that duel you've been asking for!' Those were your exact words!"

Oh no. Oh no no no. I definitely hadn't said that, considering I'd only returned yesterday. Which could only mean one thing...

"Ciel," I muttered under my breath, suddenly understanding. This had her fingerprints all over it. Damn it, what was she thinking?

"What was that?" Mica tilted her head, curiosity sparkling in her eyes.

"Nothing," I said quickly, trying to figure out how to wiggle my way out of this situation. But knowing Mica's persistence, that would be about as easy as teaching a fish to fly.