We had gotten all the preparations ready and where currently surrounded by a large crowed of people who wanted to see us off.

But, just as we entered the carriage...

Souei (My lords, I apologize for disturbing you.)

Jasper (What's up?)

Souei (I have captured two individuals who were on a rood and heading to your location. One of them is a member of the Keibitai, and according to her; the child's she's with wants to give you both something.)

The Keibitai? Isn't that our security force that Gob'emon is in charge of?

Rimuru (I mean, she went through all the trouble of helping a child get to us and it be wrong to not let this kid gives us what they want to give us.)

Jasper (Bring them here, Souei.)

Souei (As you wish.)

A few minutes later, Souei appeared in front of us with a little Goblin girl and a Fox Lycanthrope. Some of the group seem to recognize the Fox.

{Mimir: The Fox girls name is Foss and she's a member of Beast master Carrion's Beast brigade. She was most likely sent here to see if it was a good idea to interact with your nation and establish relations.)

Seems a bit late to send in people to spy on our city, since we already made diplomatic relations with them. But, I can't really blame him for being cautious, I'd just be a hypocrite then if I did that.

Rimuru: Is there something you need?

Foss gave us a very nervous look, and honestly I couldn't blame her since she was facing the leaders of a nation after what looked like an assassination attempt.

The child approached us while holding something.

Child: Umm, Lord Rimuru and Prince Jasper!! This is a charm that I made for you both, and I hope your both safe on your journey!!

She held out two pendants, one was a blue Slime while the other was a pair of Black wings.

Jasper: Wow! You made these yourself, not bad kiddo. I'm impress.

Rimuru: Oh, thank you. I'll take good care of it.

We then asked about Foss, who the girl stated was a newcomer to the Keibitai. I couldn't help but chuckle at how she referred to Foss as "Big Sister."

Rimuru: A Keibitai newcomer, is it?

Foss looked even more nervous.

Both: Keep up with the good work!

This surprised her, before she regained her composure.

Foss: Uh! Y-Yes! You can count on me!!

As Rimuru walked away, I leaned and whispered.

Jasper: Say hi to Carrion for me.

She went a bit pale, before I gave her a reassuring smile.

Jasper: Don't worry, I won't say a thing and let you do your business.

Foss calmed down a bit and gave me a thankful look.

Foss: Thank you, Prince Jasper!

We then left while waving goodbye to everyone.

The last thing we saw was Gob'emon appearing and scolding her for running off and nearly being captured. Before, being utterly shocked that she actually got to both meet and give us the little girls gift.

Later

Pulling our carriage was Ranga who was being tailored to the carriage by Gobta, around us were several members of the Wolf Riders who were meant to act as our escort and guard. Inside the carriage were me, Rimuru, the Dwarves, Shuna, and Shion.

Rimuru: Yo Ranga! Watch your pace buddy!

Ranga: Right!

He mistakenly interpreted that Rimuru wanted him to go faster and so he did.

Gobta: Wait! Wait! Wait! Wait! Wait!

Rimuru: Not what I meant!

After managing to slow Ranga down to a better pace, we began chatting to pass the time.

Kaijin: Well, I gotta admit; I never thought we'd see our homeland again. Thanks for bringing us with you.

Garm: You said it! We're grateful, right guys?

Dord: Absolutely!

Myrd: Mmhmm.

At this point, I've just accepted he'll never talk...

Rimuru: No problem. If anything, it's the least we could do. Tempest wouldn't be the flourishing nation it is with out your help.

Kaijin: Haha! We're flattered, hearing you say that makes me feel proud to be a craftsmen.

Garm: Same.

Jasper: I'll admit, we're very fortunate and very happy to have met the four of you.

Kajin: Aw, cut it out...

Kaijin started to tear up at my words with Garm and Dord sniffling a bit, and Myrd just gave us his classic smile and thumbs up.

I looked back at the 2 carriages that were carrying gifts meant for Dwargon and king Gazel. Me and Rimuru thought it would've been better to have him store them in his inventory. But, Shuna said that formality was important which was a fair point.

Shion was the only one who we didn't intend to come with us, but after we told her she wouldn't be leaving with us. She threw a massive hissy fit so powerful it began to tear apart the room we were in, after that we just felt bad leaving her for Rigurd, Souka, and the others to deal with.

Shion: Look over there my lords. The road that was destroyed by Charybdis has been completely cleared now.

Rimuru: You're right, they work fast.

Jasper: Geld and the others never fail to impress.

After a bit of time, we encountered Geld and his workers setting up the stone tablets for the road. We stopped to greet them and explain our sudden arrival.

Geld: Oh, so your both leaving for the Dwarf kingdom today?

Rimuru: Yep, and with the road laid this well it's been super smooth so far.

Geld: Thank you, we've been working on it from the direction of the Dwarf kingdom. The rest of the road from this point forward is finished.

Jasper: Nice, this means the trip will go quicker and smoother. Great work as always.

Geld: Thank you sir.

Jasper: With that being said, Rimuru...

On my cue, Rimuru spat our three large barrels.

Geld: Uh, what's that?

Both: ...Free beer.

Orcs: Really!?

They all began to cheer as we made our way back inside the carriage and went onward.

Jasper: Don't over do it!

Rimuru: Try not to get slosh!

Geld: Understood!

4 days later

We arrived at the gates of Dwargon and saw several guards moving the merchants and visitors out of the way for us.

As we left and we're about to enter, I felt a hand on my shoulder.

Kaidou: It's been a while, Jasper.

Jasper: Well, nice to see you too Kaidou.

Kaido: You too Kaijin, glad to see your looking well bro.

Kaijin: Kaidou! I haven't seen you in ages. I've been busy working with Jasper and Rimuru, but it's been a blast.

Kaidou: Good to hear, you seem to be in high spirits. How are you three doing?

Garm: Doing great!

Dord: Sure are.

Myrd: Mmhmm.

Kaidou: Also Jasper, I heard you and Rimuru were coming. But, I only see you so far.

He began looking around in an attempt to find Rimuru.

Rimuru (Seriously, I'm right he-)

Jasper (The last time he saw you, you were a Slime and not a Human.)

Rimuru (Oh, right.)

The Dwarves pointed at Rimuru.

Kaijin: This guy is Rimuru.

Kaidou: Huh...?

Garm: This is Rimuru.

Kaidou: Huh?

Dord: Yep, that's him.

Kaidou: Huh!?

Mryd: Mmhmm.

Kaidou: HUH!?

Jasper: I can confirm that.

Rimuru: What's up? Good to see you again.

Kaidou: O-Of course, like wise... glad your doing very well sir...

I leaned over to his ear and whispered.

Jasper: Don't worry, the body is from a clone made by a dear friend of ours. He didn't kill anyone and eat their body.

This seemed to calm him down a bit.

Kaidou: Well then, please follow me.

Rimuru: Can't blame him for being shocked.

After going inside and taking out the many gifts we had. We were allowed to meet with Gazel right away. With, Dorf personally leading us to him.

Dorf: I'm glad to see your both in good health, Lord Rimuru and Prince Jasper.

Rimuru: I can say the same for you, sir Dorf.

Dorf: Ahahaha! Please, there's no need for the formalities. let's hurry, the king is waiting for us.

With that, we arrived at a large bronze and door after which our arrival had been announced. The door opened and revealed a large hallway with Gazel sitting on his throne.

Gazel: It's been some time, Rimuru and Jasper.

We were taken to a balcony room to speak with Gazel who arrived after getting into some more formal and comfortable clothing.

Rimuru: I wanna start by thanking you for pardoning the crimes of Kaijin and the brothers.

Jasper: Back then, exiling them was the most lenient punishment the guy could give. His ministers would've been a real pain other wise.

Rimuru: Wait, so you wanted to let them off easy?

Gazel: Very perceptive Jasper, that may be though given the strange creatures you both were. It seemed better to get rid of you all for the time being. That being said, it tore at my heart to send them all away...

Jasper: Well, thanks to Garm high quality armor. Along with Dord and Myrd being a huge help with construction projects and of course Kaijin takes care of several matters that not some what beyond our capabilities.

Rimuru: Yeah, and we have no doubt that Tempest wouldn't be the same without them.

Gazel: I though they would be better off in a different environment, where they could make full use of their talents freely without living in obscurity. What about Vesta?

Rimuru: Well we did invite him to come with us. But, he said that while he appreciated the offer he couldn't face you until he's produced some kind of result...

Gazel: Hahaha! Sounds like Vesta, though I suppose that means he's found a place where he can exercise his talents to the fullest.

He paused after his fit of laugher, and then gave us a serious look.

Gazel: Now, there's something else I want to know.

Both: Had a feeling...

Gazel: ...In the battle against Charybdis, you utilized a high output magical weapon and used it along with Jasper's own power.

Jasper: Demon Lord Milim Nava.

Dorf: They made a similar joke after the battle...

Rimuru: Except, it's not a joke at all...

Dorf: But, that's impossible to believe. You're telling us that child is a catastrophe class Demon Lord...?

Gazel ...Hehehe, it's to preposterous to be a mere boasting. Alright, I've decided to believe you. You to Dorf...

Dorf: ...Yes, sir. But, when did you become acquainted with one of the oldest of the Demon Lords?

Rimuru: Well, she mainly came to see Jasper. Turns out their both family.

Dorf: Seriously...?

Gazel: Being family with Milm, and claiming to be a Nephilim...

Jasper: Nice to meet you. I'm Jasper Tempest, one of the Primordial Hybrids.

They both looked at me with a silent expression.

Dorf: That's not funny...

Jasper: It's not a joke. The only issue with that claim is that I have some rather bad Amnesia...

Gazel: Well... the prison in the east where the Jack of Anarchy was kept was empty and if the destroyer herself acknowledges it, then it must be true...

After that, Shuna came in with some drinks for us.

Gazel: What's this?

Rimuru: A small gift from Tempest.

A nod from my head signaled to Shuna who poured several glasses and handed them to each of us.

Gazel: Hold on, did Dord make these glasses?

Rimuru: Yep, you guessed it.

Gazel began inspecting and complimenting on the structure and appearance of both the brandy and glass. But, also noticed the detoxifying rune engraved at the bottom.

Jasper: Would you like us to taste it for any potential poison?

Gazel: Heh, I wouldn't suspect either of you of trying to poison me.

Gazel and Dorf took a sip and were delightfully surprised by both the aroma and taste of the alcohol. We both took a swig of our drinks too.

{Mimir: Again, Abnormal Condition nullification. You can't get drunk!}

That won't stop me from trying!

 Gazel: What's wrong?

Rimuru: Oh nothing. This is distill liquor made from apple, we're currently working of the prospect of importing more fruit. So, we should be able to make more soon.

Seems like his {Great Sage} is also not letting him get drunk.

Gazel: Imported? Does this mean you found new nations other then Dwargon to make relations with? The kingdom of Blumund perhaps?

Jasper: Yeah, we're already in an trade and defense agreement with Blumund. But, we've also entered diplomatic relations with Eurazania-

Gazel: The Animal kingdom!?

Dorf: You mean that arrogant Beast King made a deal with another nation!?

Gazel: First, you have a Primordial Hybrid with you. Then, you earn the favor of Demon Lord Milim. Now, you've gotten in favor with Demon Lord Carrion as well!?

Dorf: Are you a seducer of Demon Lords...?

Rimuru: Not at all.

Jasper: Turns out, one of Carrion's men was used a vessel for Charybdis. So we freed him after killing Charybdis. Therefore, he owed us.

Rimuru: Pretty much, we only recently sent delegations to one another.

Dorf: You both must realize that this will cost the importance of Tempest to sky rocket. It's possible it could even replace the kingdom of Falmuth as the major trade center.

Rimuru: I doubt it. Plus, our main goal is to finish establishing transport routes so our trades can run smoothly.

Gazel: Setting aside talks of the future, I'll admit this alcohol is better then any I've had ordered from Falmuth directly.  So, I hope your partnership succeeds..

Falmuth...? Youm said that's where he hails from though he doesn't talk much about his home. But, given he and his group planned on faking their deaths to escape kinda tells me a bit about the nation.

Jasper: What is the kingdom of Falmuth like?

Gazel: Well... I'd rank it as either number one or number two of the western provinces behind the kingdom of Ingrassia. Our nation depends on import's from Falmuth along with the Eastern Empire for most of our goods and food. Though, between the three of us...

He leaned forwards and we did the same.

Gazel: I don't really care about their king at all...

Jasper: Let me guess, he's the selfish greedy type of monarch right?

Gazel: Pretty much, so no matter what you both must do what it takes to succeed in trade talks with Eurazania.

He then held up is empty glass and gave us a smile.

Gazel: Also, make sure you keep supplying your senior with plenty of tasty alcohol.

Jasper: -_-

Rimuru: Starting to think you have ulterior motives...

Jasper (Hey, Souei.)

Souei (Yes, Prince Jasper?)

Jasper (Mind doing some investigation on the kingdom of Falmuth for me? Mainly on anything that relates to Tempest.)

Souei (Understood.)

Suddenly, Shion leaned on top of Rimuru and was shouting not sensible stuff.

Shuna: Shion!? When did you start drinking!?

Jasper: I-Is she drunk...!?

Shion: Leave it to my lords! They'll have that trade locked in no time flat!

She just continued to spout out how thanks to use the trade with Eurazania would be good and that more alcohol would be on the way. Before she passed out and Rimuru manage to catch as she fell.

Rimuru: What am I gonna do with this girl?

Shuna: I'm so sorry! Please, forgive my companions rudeness!

Jasper: Yeah, Shion can get a little much at times...

Gazel: Hahaha! It's fine. You should probably take her to get some rest.

WIth that we left, but...

Jasper: Oh and Gazel. Next time you send someone to spy on us, make sure their well hidden. I managed to easily find her location in a few heartbeats.

Gazel gave me a surprise look before smiling.

Gazel: Noted.

With that, we left.

Shuna: How embarrassing...

Jasper: You can say that again.

Shion: Lord Rimuru... Prince Jasper...

Rimuru: Somehow, I still wanna live up to her expectations though.

Jasper: Agreed. Shuna, when we get back to our quarters let's discuss the speech again.

Shuna: Right.

Next day

Our group made our way to a stage with Gazel, in order to declare our nations friendship in front of the citizens. Shion walked up to hold up Rimuru and I stood next to them.

Jasper: Greetings citizens of Dwargon. I am Jasper Tempest, one of the 2 leaders of the Jura Tempest Federation or simply Tempest for short.

Rimuru: A-And I'm Rimuru Tempest, the other ruler of Tempest.

Gobta and riders began clapping which was shortly followed by the crowd.

Jasper: We thank you all for your generous hospitality. Our goal is to build a nation that will serve as a bridge to fill in the gap between Monsters and Humans. Dwargon is a good example a of nation that accepts Humans, Demi-Humans, and Monsters alike no matter their species or beliefs and through this cooperation the nation prospers. This is the exact utopia that we in Tempest strive for.

Rimuru: We can't be more grateful for king Gazel for his endorsement of our nation. Thus, we would like to continue upholding our relationship of mutual aid. But, to do that we need everyone's cooperation.

Jasper: Not just us, but there are many species from Demi-Humans to Monsters to even Humans who call Tempest home. Proclaiming us a nation of primarily monsters would be a fair assumption. The truth is though, is that just because our species and beliefs may be different this doesn't mean that we're any different in our hears from everyone else here. We love, we care, we cry, and work hard just like anyone else. We will make you see that we are not a nation to be feared as a threat, but as an ally who can all call upon as a friend to aid you all in your time of need.

Rimuru: We promise our words convey only our most honest feelings, and with that we conclude our greetings to you.

The crowed began to cheer and applauded us.

Rimuru (I say our speech was a success.)

Jasper(We'll see when our senior grades it.)

Later on, we met with Gazel.

Gazel: decent enough length, some what confident with a bit of humility, and a little too dependent on the sympathy of others. Overall, 45 maybe 50 out of a 100.

Rimuru: Oh...

Jasper: Better then 0 points, I guess.

Gazel: The rulers of a nation shouldn't address their citizens with so much humility. Especially, the people of a foreign nation. They'll only look down on you. Though, it was nice to hear no indulgent or weak thoughts. But, wonderful things cant' come about naturally or with pretty words. You have to make them come about yourself.

Rimuru: Right...

Jasper: Humility isn't a bad thing, that shows character and growth. but, too much humility can easily turn a leader into a follow.

Gazel: Exactly, this was mainly referring to Rimuru.

Rimuru: Huh?

Gazel: From what I saw you were a little too dependent on Jasper to give the speech. To them, Jasper was basically the real leader and your only in charge due to being a sibling.

Jasper: Also, during the speech to the delegation being sent to Eurazania. You initial attempt was ungodly short and barley showed anything. All you did was wish them luck, I had to be the one starting off the speech and then you just followed along.

Gazel: With all that being said, you can't always rely on Jasper for everything. Sooner or later they'll be a time where you'll have to do something without him by your side. You have to be ready for that and be able make the right call when it does.

Rimuru's mind: I did suck at given speech back in my old life. But, the fact that they're both being strict and honest with their advice and criticism shows they being sincere and they really do want me to succeed. I really am blessed with some awesome friendships and family bonds.

Later

Rimuru: You made sure Shuna and