Chapter 36: ch36 < Preparation for war >
After my time with Chloe, both Testarossa and Chloe became close like sisters, happily living with me.
For some reason, Chloe and Testarossa became overly protective of me, even though I am stronger than they are.
Thanks to my new ultimate skill, , my power to control chaotic destruction has reached a fundamental level.
I can now manage small amounts of it and even empower myself with its energy.
One evening, as we sat around the table after dinner, Chloe leaned in closer with a concerned expression. "You know, we just want to make sure you're safe," she said, her eyes reflecting genuine worry.
Testarossa nodded in agreement. "It's true. Even though we know you're incredibly powerful, it's hard not to worry. You've done so much for us, and we care about you deeply."
I smiled, appreciating their concern. "I understand, and I value your protection.
Thank you. I said with a pure smile.
But it's comforting to know that I have you two looking out for me."Chloe smiled warmly, reaching out to squeeze my hand.
"Always" Testarossa placed her hand over ours.
the atmosphere intimate and tender. Chloe was the first to move, her lips gently finding mine in a kiss that was both soft and passionate.
I felt Testarossa's presence close by, her hand resting on my shoulder, her touch reassuring and warm.
As the kiss with Chloe deepened, I felt her body press against mine, her warmth igniting a spark within me. Testarossa's lips found my neck, leaving a trail of soft kisses that sent shivers down my spine.
I turned to her, capturing her lips in a kiss that was filled with longing and desire.
The night progressed in a dance of affection and intimacy.
The morning sun cast a warm, golden glow over the fields surrounding Tempest, the dew still clinging to the grass, shimmering like tiny jewels.
The three of us lay naked on the bed, covered by a luxurious silver sheet that draped over our entwined bodies.
Despite the night's passionate events, there wasn't the slightest sign of fatigue on our faces.
Testarossa was lying on my left side, her soft skin pressed against mine, while Chloe was on my right, her warmth enveloped by my strong embrace.
Their breaths were steady and content, a gentle reminder of our closeness.As morning came, I awoke, feeling the delightful weight of their bodies against mine.
I leaned over, pressing a tender kiss to Testarossa's lips, then turned to Chloe, kissing her with the same affection.
Both stirred slightly, a soft sigh escaping their lips as they felt my touch.
Reluctantly, I slipped out of the warm embrace, careful not to wake them fully, and made my way to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.
< >
Both of them decided to help in preparing breakfast.
Chloe, her long hair tied back in a loose ponytail, hummed a cheerful tune as she set the table. The morning light caught her hair, giving it a golden sheen.
"I love mornings like this," she said, smiling at Testarossa, who was expertly flipping pancakes, her movements graceful and precise.
Meanwhile, Karna was making vegetable soup for them, the rich aroma of the simmering broth blending with the scent of freshly baked bread, filling the room with warmth and comfort.
Once everything was ready, Karna and Testarossa joined Chloe at the table, carrying their breakfast.
"Let's enjoy our breakfast and then we need to prepare ourselves for the day," Karna said, his voice filled with contentment.
< >
After training he went to 93 floor of labyrinth. Which is his personal floor for work.
He reached into his subspace and pulled forth Razul, the former servant of Granbell.
Razul seemed confused, so I explained his situation.
"I know you served Granbell and worked for humanity, but things changed when Maria died and Granbell turned ashtray. Tempest can offer you a new purpose, a new family."
Razul's gaze hardened slightly. "And what about my loyalty to Granbell? He was my master."
"Granbell is dead, Razul. But you still have your prince and princess, your family here with us in Tempest. I can even help you protect other insectors from Zalanous."
"I know Zalanous is a calculating guy who even consumes his family for more power."
Razul considered this, his mind racing through memories and possibilities. Finally, he gave a slow, deliberate nod. "Very well. I will join you."
"Your name will be Razul," Karna declared.
When Karna finished, the glow faded, and Razul stood there, transformed. Karna had used the Ultimate Skill Void Archives to upgrade his exoskeleton, now reaching Adamantite rank.
Razul looked at Karna, a mixture of gratitude and determination in his eyes. "Thank you, Karna-sama. I will not let you down."
---
Meanwhile in Eastern Empire
Yuuki stood atop the highest tower in the Eastern Empire's capital, gazing out over the sprawling city.
His once-human form now exuded an eerie, otherworldly aura, a testament to the power he had acquired through his relentless experiments.
"With the power of Ahura Mazda coursing through my veins and the demon lord seed secured," Yuuki murmured to himself, a sinister smile spreading across his face. "I am unstoppable."
He turned to face his allies, Kagali and the Modern Clown Tripulate Alliance, who stood behind him, their expressions a mix of awe and trepidation.
Kagali nodded, her eyes flickering with a hint of uncertainty. "Are you sure about recreating Veldanava's memories?"
Kagali found it hard to believe that his skill could even recreate memories of the dead.
Yuuki's laughter echoed through the tower, sending chills down the spines of those present.
"When I tried to recreate Veldanava's memories, I obtained 'Angra Mainyu,' which grants me fragments of Veldanava's nucleic heart. I am stronger than any Saint."
The room fell silent, the weight of Yuuki's words sinking in. His ambition was clear, and his power undeniable.
As the night deepened, Yuuki's gaze shifted to the horizon, where the Western nations lay, unaware of the storm about to be unleashed upon them.
"Let the Empire's attack on the West be the signal," Yuuki declared, his eyes burning with a malevolent light.
"And as they falter, we shall rise. The Eastern Empire will be reborn under my rule, and no one will dare challenge our supremacy."
< >
Karna stood in the center of the training ground, flanked by Hakuro and Albert.
Both Albert and Hakurou possessed extraordinary sword skills.
Karna held back his true strength, sparring at the level of his revered mentors.
Each exchange was a testament to his growth and mastery, a dance of blades that spoke volumes of his training under Hakuro and Albert.
Karna was meticulously copying their swordsmanship into his own style, knowing he would soon face Feldway and others who had been present since the beginning of time.
They paused, the air thick with the sound of their breathing. Hakuro sheathed his sword, a proud smile evident on his face. "You've surpassed our expectations, Karna-sama. Your skill and restraint are commendable."
Albert nodded in agreement.
Few days later.
Yuuki, he sent a few people over from the Empire.
First was a group of youngsters led by Shinji. He had an interesting skill which allowed him to play around with microscopic organisms.
Secondly, he sent an old man named Gadra. He is the teacher of Razen, who is currently helping Youm to rule.
He is also an old friend of Adalmann. He is a complete maniac when it comes to learning magic.
Ramiris's magic golem caught his fancy and he decided to become the guardian of the 60th floor after a series of incidents.
Diablo also used "Dominate "on him to make sure he wasn't lying or would betray us in the future.
< >
I sought out Rimuru to discuss the Eastern Empire.
"I have news about Rudra," I began. "He's actually humanity's first hero and once rivaled Guy."
"Rivaled Guy?" Rimuru raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
"Yes, they were evenly matched," I confirmed. "But Rudra's current power level isn't comparable."
"Why not?" Rimuru asked, leaning forward.
"His ultimate skill, bestowed by Veldanava, grants him incredible power but that skill actually brings great toll on his. To fully operate this skill he has to go countless reincarnations," I explained. "However, with each cycle, his soul weakens, diminishing him from a true hero to merely a saint."
"So, we're facing someone who has a very strong ultimate skill ?" Rimuru's concern was evident.
"Indeed. The issue worsens with Rudra's Imperial Knights. The top 50 are Enlightened Humans, and the top 7 can challenge even a saint."
Rimuru's eyes widened in realization. "That's a formidable force..."
"Exactly. And while Rudra may be a saint, his soul's strength is such that even a Saint would kneel before him. It's a daunting prospect."
"But you believe we can't defeat him with our current forces," Rimuru surmised.
"Not without significant difficulty. But our bigger concern is the Marshal," I continued.
"Marshal?" Rimuru queried.
"Velgrynd, the Scorch Dragon, second in command of the Eastern Empire and Emperor's lover," I clarified.
"Velgrynd... Veldora's sister?" Rimuru sought confirmation.
"Yes, she is," I nodded. "But I believe I can handle her."
Rimuru paused, absorbing the information. "What about Chloe's warning? About my death in a future conflict?"
"That's where my skill, Pursuit of Truth, comes in," I explained. "It doesn't foresee much details regarding Velgrynd and rudra.
which worries me in facing Velgrynd."
It seems there are more than two people who possess Strength rivaling true dragons in Eastern Empire.
"I see... So, what's your proposal?" Rimuru asked, sensing my hesitation.
"I've noticed something unique about your soul essence," I began thoughtfully. "Awakening four ultimate skills is extraordinary."
Rimuru chuckled nervously. "I didn't think it was that unusual..."
"Luminas, for instance, awakened her ultimate skill after millennia," I pointed out. "Your rapid progression is exceptional."
"So, what does this mean?" Rimuru inquired, now curious.
"It means you possess potential beyond ordinary beings," I said. "My proposal is this: I want you to consume Veldora and assimilate his dragon factor. It could elevate you to a subspecies of a true dragon."
Rimuru blinked in astonishment. "Evolving into a true dragon? Is that even possible?"
"Yes, it is," I affirmed, a hint of excitement in my voice.
Just then, Raphael intervened, offering technical details to support my proposal, explaining the feasibility and benefits of such an evolution.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone