The sky rippled like water as a massive teleportation gate shimmered open in the heart of Tempest. Citizens paused mid-chore. Soldiers reached for weapons—until familiar auras blanketed the air like a calming breeze.
And then, he stepped out.
Satria.
Clad in his signature batik ensemble, sunglasses perched on his nose, and exuding the easy confidence of a man who absolutely did not plan for this many wives to arrive alongside him.
Behind him emerged a parade of beauties—each one a walking war crime against masculinity.
Jeanne strode out with grace, divine poise radiating from her in waves.
Kiyohime dressed like a ghostly bride, hands folded neatly, eyes locked lovingly on her husband.
Kurumi waved charmingly at the guards, giggling with a wink that made several faint.
Koneko, though familiar with modern cities, gawked in wide-eyed awe. The fantasy sci-fi fusion of Tempest was something out of dreams.
Valiana, dressed in a white sleeveless shirt and red tie, military elegance wrapped around noble instincts, admired the rising empire her mate had forged.
Fran casually spun her sword on one shoulder like a child with a stick—despite being specifically banned from "unsupervised twirling" by Tempest regulations.
And at the rear, like royalty returning to survey a long-lost domain, Morgan stepped through the gate. Her sharp eyes scanned the land with a mix of suspicion and curiosity—coated with regal disdain.
The border guards stiffened. One fell to his knees, slamming his forehead into the ground with a booming voice:
"The Lord has returned! Glory to the Great Golden Emperor! The Padishah of Rûm! The Dispenser of Crowns to Monarchs upon the Earth! The Shadow of God in the World! The Custodian of the Invincible Wall of the Two Horns that pierce the Sky and protect us from our enemies!"
Gasps and murmurs surged like a rising tide. One by one—humans, demi-humans, orcs, ogres, flora, fauna, and even spirits—fell to their knees, bowing low. To many in Tempest, Satria was more than a king. He was their Messiah, their Savior, their Living Myth.
Satria raised a hand with a gentle smile.
"Please… everyone, stand. I appreciate your passion, truly—but we've talked about this before, haven't we? I'm not whatever you have in your mind. I'm just a man who's trying to do right by the people who put their faith in him. Everything I've done... it's my responsibility as your leader—to ensure you can live without fear and find happiness in Tempest."
His words, like rain on parched soil, eased the hearts of all who listened.
Rimuru floated beside him, blinking at the horizon. Her eyes widened.
"W-Wait a second! That wall! That wasn't here when we left! You—don't tell me… that's the gift you mentioned? The one from your world's God?"
Her voice was half-excited, half-horrified.
Fatalis, who had once peeked into Satria's deepest memories, nodded slowly.
"Yes. It's his gift. A divine construct beyond comprehension. To think they managed to send something like this across worlds…"
She gazed upward with a faint shiver in her voice.
"That is the Iron Wall of Dhu al-Qarnayn… forged in ancient myth to imprison the chaos-bringers Gog and Magog. It was said to stand between civilizations and apocalypse."
The crowd fell silent as they turned toward the distant wall—gleaming gold and black, etched with divine runes, towering into the clouds like a blade splitting heaven itself.
Ophis tilted her head. "...Impressive."
Great Red grinned. "Now that's what I call a defensive structure."
Jeanne clutched her pendant, whispering a prayer—not out of fear, but in reverence.
Even Morgan, proud and stubborn, felt a chill of awe. "...Perhaps this kingdom is not as fragile as I assumed."
With a casual flick, Satria tossed a Poké Ball into the air. It cracked open in a flash of brilliant white light.
Out leapt his companions.
Ariel the Vaporeon, graceful and shimmering like water incarnate, immediately began bounding happily across the field.
The Twin Norse Wolves, massive and majestic, chased after her with tails wagging like overgrown puppies.
And then came Budi—the eldritch creature from an unknown dimension in the Marvel World—who somehow looked both terrifying and adorable as he rolled in the grass, chirping with delight.
Their joy was infectious.
A moment later, a crowd of children and animals had gathered, laughter ringing through the air. Tiny human, orcs, ogre, goblin kids, direwolf cubs, lizardfolk toddlers—even a few fairies flitted nearby, giggling.
Satria knelt, smiling warmly.
"Hello, kids! How are you all doing? Are you enjoying life in Tempest?"
"Yes! We love it here, My Lord!" they chorused, beaming.
"The school is so fun! We play a lot, and we have lots of friends!"
"Yeah! Like football—football is the best!"
"No way! Baseball is better!" one kid argued.
"Boys," a stern little girl huffed, crossing her arms. "You're supposed to study first! Make Emperor-sama and our parents proud!" She turned, cheeks pink, and extended a delicate offering: a crane and flower made from folded paper. "Will you accept this, Emperor-sama?" she asked shyly.
Satria gently took the paper gift, his smile softening.
"Of course. Thank you—this is beautiful." He turned back to the group. "It's okay to play and have fun… but don't forget to study, alright? I want all the children in Tempest to grow up educated, disciplined, and above all—good people."
He raised a finger.
"With great strength and intelligence, we must remain—"
"Honest!"
"Fair!"
"Patient!"
"Generous!"
"Sincere!"
"And humble!"
Satria chuckled, deeply moved.
"Good boys and girls… That's right. It's not hard to make me proud. Just be wise, be kind, and be just. I'm counting on you all."
The children's eyes sparkled with awe and admiration. He wasn't just a ruler to them—he was their hero, their guardian, their Emperor.
Just then, a familiar voice called out.
"Boss! Long time no see!"
A Chinese-Indonesian man approached, waving. Williams—Satria's old friend from Earth—was here, along with his wife and kids.
"Who's that, Danna-sama?" Kiyohime asked, tilting her head curiously.
"Oh, that's Williams—an old friend from back home in Indonesia," Satria replied.
Kurumi grinned, remembering.
"Ah~ You're our sponsor in Madripoor. Small world."
"Bigger now," Williams laughed. "Boss, this place is nuts! I had no idea you were hiding a whole damn kingdom from the rest of the world. And yeah—I brought them."
He gestured behind him, and a small group of Indonesians stepped forward—scholars, engineers, doctors, culinary experts, and many more Bright, talented people.
"These folks? Way too good to be wasting their talent back home. Figured they could contribute more here."
Among them, a young woman gasped.
"K-Kiyohime-san?!"
"Ara~ Renatta-chan! What a surprise. To think we meet again in this world." Kiyohime smiled warmly, folding her fan with elegance.
Renatta gave a nervous bow.
"It's… like something out of a fantasy novel. I never thought I'd be offered a job in another world."
One of the Indonesian men stepped forward, desperate hope on his face.
"Please, Emperor-sama… is it true? Can you really cure my daughter?"
Satria nodded solemnly.
"Yes. I can. In exchange, I only ask for one thing—just help us to grow."
He continued with a gentle but firm voice:
"Tempest is a young nation—and every citizen matters. We do not tax individual income, whether you're a citizen or a foreign resident. A simple 5% VAT. Corporations pay 15% on profits. Small businesses pay as little as 3%."
"Permanent Citizens receive free or subsidized housing and land. Public education—including university—is free. Scholarships are available for study abroad. Healthcare is free, and there's financial support for the elderly, the disabled, or the struggling. You'll have full rights to vote, own businesses, and receive support for starting one."
"However… dual citizenship is not allowed. You must give up your old allegiance to fully embrace Tempest. In return, you'll have everything: opportunity, purpose, and home. I only ask one thing—give back. Help the nation. Help others."
Silence followed his words.
Then, the man who asked about his daughter exhaled, trembling, eyes filled with tears.
"Why aren't you running our country back home…? If we had someone like you in charge, it wouldn't be in such a mess…"
Satria smiled sadly.
"Because I was called here. But that doesn't mean I've forgotten where I came from. As long as you remember our values… I'll never stop helping our people."
•
As the farewell faded behind them, Satria and his family strolled into the heart of Neo-Nusato — a radiant fusion of dreams and devotion, rising proudly along Tempest's shimmering coastline.
Neo-Nusato wasn't just a city. It was a living harmony of culture, technology, and spirituality — built across floating eco-islands, linked by elegant skybridges that looked like woven threads between emerald seas.
The vertical city rose like a garden paradise — each layer a story told in bamboo, steel, and glass. Buildings bloomed upward with hanging gardens, flowing rice terraces, and gently glowing bioluminescent vines climbing their exteriors. Every rooftop sparkled under transparent solar tiles, while beneath them flowed peaceful walkways made of polished basalt and glowing energy veins.
Traditional torii gates, brushed with Balinese canang sari offerings, stood watch at every district gate. Their red arches shimmered with batik-patterned holograms, as if ancient spirits guarded a city of the future.
Levitating vehicles glided silently down aerial lanes. Maglev dragonfly shuttles zipped beneath transparent bridges. Smart koi swam in koi ponds and whispered greetings in Bahasa Tempest — the language of unity: a blend of Indonesian warmth and Japanese honor.
Alongside serene bamboo forests and vertical banyan-shrines pulsed soft AI voices, offering horoscopes, fables, and morning greetings. Children chased Wayang holograms, giggling as the puppets told epic stories from both worlds.
Temples blended old and new — open-air Joglo rooftops adorned with calligraphy from Quran verses, Shinto ofuda, and glowing neon mantra inscriptions in Javanese script. Music flowed from within: AR gamelan concerts, muezzin calls harmonizing with wind chimes, and sutra chants echoing beneath LED sakura trees.
Everywhere, citizens moved with silent efficiency and communal warmth. They practiced Gotong-Ryō — mutual help with respect — nodding, bowing, and offering help with soft words and open hearts.
Kiyohime golden eyes sparkled as she held Satria's arm tightly.
"Ah~ Danna-sama… this city… it feels like a dream. I can smell incense, and yet… there's no smoke. Everything here is so graceful, yet so alive! Even the spirits seem content." She twirled in place beneath a sakura hologram, her kimono flowing like mist. "You've built a land even my soul can rest in."
Jeanne looked around, stunned. Her gaze softened.
"So much faith in one place... living together, peacefully all side by side... no fear, no tension." She clasped her hands. "You've made something holy here, Master. I feel no blasphemy… only unity." She bowed to a shrine-tree, offering a quiet prayer. "I was a saint in a broken world. Here, perhaps, I can just be… a woman of faith."
Kurumi lazily twirled an umbrella and giggled.
"Oh~ my~ It's so… neat. So controlled. And yet, behind every smile… I sense a little chaos dancing beneath the surface~" She stared at a fish that responded to her wink. "Even the koi are smarter than half the people I've met on Earth. I like this city. It's polite... but not boring." She leaned toward Satria, whispering playfully, "You're not hiding an evil side of this utopia, are you~?"
Koneko blinked up at the skybridges, tail twitching.
"So high... and clean." She knelt beside a koi pond and poked the water. The fish giggled and told her the weather. "...Nya." She stood and declared, "I want to live here." No one questioned it.
Crom crossed her arms, her eyes scanning every structure like a tactician.
"Efficient urban layout, energy-efficient buildings, integrated spiritual centers, military-readiness potential…" She turned to Satria. "I must admit it, this is genius." Her lips curved into a faint smile. "You made something stronger than any fortress. A home people would die to protect. You're not just a leader… You're a builder of civilizations."
Great Red scarlet eyes narrowed as she sniffed the air. "This city hums with divine blessing and mortal ambition. You humans… are more terrifying than dragons when you dream big." She looked at the AI shrine-tree as it bowed to her. "Even the spirits know their place here. You've given order to the chaos of existence, beloved. Be proud."
Morgan raised a skeptical brow, her heels clicking softly on the marble path. "Artificial cities... I expected soulless steel. Yet this... has heart." She ran her fingers along a glowing banyan shrine. "Magic, culture, technology — in balance. You have done something no monarch I knew could." She glanced sidelong at Satria. "You continue to surprise me, Satria. Perhaps... I was too quick to judge."
Ophis stared blankly for several moments, then quietly said:
"...I like the trees." She hugged one of the shrine roots. "They sing."
Valiana smiling. "You built this from nothing…? This is the kind of place angels from Heaven would visit just to take notes. I think I understand now, why you want us to see Tempest."
Wrapped in the gentle evening glow of Neo-Nusato's ambient lights, the group wandered through a sakura-lit plaza beside a koi-stream lined with floating lanterns. The air smelled of plumeria and sakura, with a hint of digital incense drifting from a nearby shrine-tree.
Rimuru, dressed in a graceful sky-blue kimono embroidered with swirling slime motifs and soft cloud patterns, leaned into Satria's side, snuggling close like a cat seeking warmth.
"You know... sometimes, you can be really weird," she said, her golden eyes narrowing playfully.
Satria blinked. "Huh? That's just rude—"
Before he could finish, Rimuru placed a finger gently on his lips.
"But..." she said softly, "I've never felt prouder to call someone my Emperor... and our husband." She smiled with rare vulnerability. "I think... everyone here agrees with me."
The group momentarily hushed.
Fran, always quiet but sincere, stepped forward, her sword strapped across her back like a knight of old.
"I agreeth. In all mine wildest dreams, not once did I imagine meeting a man like thou." Her blue eyes sparkled. "Truly, thou art mine Prince Charming, and this—our kingdom—is like a tale spun from starlight."
Before the mood could settle too deeply, a familiar, sultry voice broke the quiet.
Great Red, cloaked in a form-fitting dress as crimson as her namesake scales once were, draped an arm around Satria's other shoulder with smug grace.
"Ara~ You two can't monopolize him every day, can you?" she purred, her scarlet eyes glowing with mischief. "Is it so wrong that I want to spend some quality time with our beloved gentleman~? I still haven't... properly tested how compatible we are." Her tone made half the girls twitch.
Kurumi, never one to back down from a flirt-off, twirled her parasol, giggling with her signature wicked charm.
"My~ That's quite bold of you, Red-san. But unfortunately... I already have plans." She leaned in closer to Satria and smirked. "A romantic double date with Fran-chan and me. It's been a while since we had him to ourselves."
Nearby, Crom Cruach, lounging casually with a toothpick in her mouth, nudged Jeanne in the ribs with a teasing grin.
"C'mon, girl! You gonna just stand there and blush while the others snatch him away? This is war~!" he teased.
Jeanne flushed furiously, her gloved hands clasped in front of her armor-clad skirt.
"I-I… I don't know how to be… bold like them," she stammered, cheeks redder than her banner. "Besides... I don't want to force anything. I'll wait until the time is right..." Her voice trailed off as Kurumi and Red exchanged sly smirks.
A teasing giggle echoed among them — followed by a small eruption of auras.
"Oi, oi, what's going on here?" came a familiar voice.
From the edge of the plaza, Benimaru, Hakurou, Souei, Shuna, Ranga, and Gobta arrived as a loose group. They looked equal parts amused and wary.
Gobta, as usual, was the first to speak—and the first to make a mistake.
"Uwaah, is this a harem war? I wanna vote for Rimuru-sama! Or Red-sama! Wait—wait don't hit me—Gyaaah!!"
Rimuru lazily pointed a finger and sent Gobta flying with a time-warp slap. He vanished and reappeared in a koi pond, still screaming.
Ranga huffed and curled up beside Rimuru's feet like a protective wolf guardian.
Souei crossed his arms. "So this is what happens when His Majesty returns…"
Hakurou nodded thoughtfully. "Hmph. A man who inspires love, loyalty... and chaos. Perhaps it is the mark of a true sovereign."
"Heh... You're still sulking?" Benimaru said gently, glancing at his little sister.
Shuna crossed her arms, refusing to meet his gaze. "That's easy for you to say." Her voice trembled. "I liked Rimuru-sama first... and now she's wearing that kimono, cuddling like they're newlyweds. How am I supposed to compete with that?"
Benimaru sighed. "Satria-sama didn't steal Rimuru-sama. He didn't deceive anyone. She chose — and was chosen."
Shuna's cheeks flushed, her fists tightening. The frustration, the longing — it had been bottled up too long.
Then Rimuru stepped forward, her voice calm, her eyes filled with compassion. She bowed low.
"Shuna... I can't erase the pain you feel, and I never wanted to hurt you. I respect your heart — I always have. Even if you hate me or him now, I'll never stop caring about you. You're my friend. That will never change. Do you want to talk about it — really talk?"
Shuna's lip trembled. She looked away, voice cracking.
"Not fair... I know I can't compete with him. After seeing everything he's done — I knew I couldn't win your heart back. But still... this feeling… it won't go away."
The atmosphere grew heavy. The rest of Satria's wives and companions looked at him in unison.
"…What?" Satria blinked, then looked between them. "Don't tell me this is somehow my fault?"
Fatalis sighed theatrically and shook her head.
"Tch tch... You really do have a knack for breaking maiden hearts, don't you?"
Ophis nodded solemnly beside her.
"Yup. You're the emotional equivalent of a black hole."
"Unbelievable. Yes, yes, of course! Everything's my fault." Satria threw up his hands, pouting. "The girls are always right, except me."
Koneko, curious but innocent, tilted her head.
"So... is she in love with Rimuru-san? Like how Morgan-san desires Kurumi-dono?"
Great Red chuckled, arms crossed beneath her generous bust.
"My~ The Empress is still clueless, even after everything she's done with the Emperor? How adorably dense."
Rimuru blinked. "W-What? No way... Is that true, Shuna-san?"
Shuna said nothing — only gave a tiny, tear-filled nod.
The silence that followed was deafening.
Rimuru's face paled. "W-What have I done... I'm so sorry, Shuna-san. I didn't even realize. I never meant to ignore your feelings." She bowed deeply. "If I'd known, I would've... tried to understand earlier. I just... I didn't think anyone loved me like that — especially you."
Shuna's expression softened. Her shoulders shook as she wiped her tears.
"I understand what you're going to say... that you can't leave his side. That you've already chosen." Her voice cracked. "But... I had to try. Just once... to be seen."
Rimuru looked over at Satria, her face clouded with mixed feelings.
"He already has a place in my heart... too deep to remove. I can't walk away from him anymore — not after everything. And besides..." she gave him a faint glare, "...someone has to keep this reckless 'bad puppy' on a leash."
Satria winced. "Ouch. That one felt personal."
Rimuru turned back to Shuna.
"I still want to be your friend, if you'll let me. I hope you can forgive me — someday."
Shuna stood there, motionless. Then her composure shattered.
"I... I see," she whispered. "So I really don't have a place beside you anymore."
And without another word, she turned and ran, sobbing quietly, vanishing into the lantern-lit alleys of Neo-Nusato.
"S-Shuna!" Rimuru called after her — but it was too late.
SPLAT!
Kiyohime and Fatalis appeared behind Satria and both smacked the back of his head.
"Aduh! What the hell was that for!?"
The girls stared at him, faces stern and expectant.
"I mean, what do you want me to do? I'm not some miracle worker!"
[Goldy: Host... you could always use emotion-altering magic. Should I prepare a suggestion spell?]
"No." Satria growled aloud, startling some of the group. "That's not how I solve things. I won't manipulate someone's feelings. I'm not that kind of Douchebag."
There was a pause. Even the wind seemed to respect that answer.
Morgan turned toward Kurumi, intrigued.
"You trust him. Even when he refuses the easy path."
Kurumi smiled warmly, brushing hair from her eye.
"Fufufu~ If he did take shortcuts with hearts, I would've never followed him this far, would I? How about lending Rimuru-san a hand, my dear?"
Satria sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I have no other choice then…"
•
The wind was gentle. The pond nearby shimmered faintly, reflecting the stars above. A lone figure sat on a bench, shoulders trembling.
Shuna hugged herself, eyes red from crying.
"Why is the world so unfair…? Was I not good enough? Why did I even say those things... like some child throwing a tantrum..."
She buried her face into her hands, trying to swallow back the sobs.
Then—
FWOOOSH.
A soft breeze, followed by a faint glint of moonlight.
"Pardon me… but may I borrow this moment of sorrow?"
Satria emerged dramatically, his figure haloed by the moonlight, like some over-the-top movie hero. His steps made no sound, as if even gravity paused to respect his timing.
Shuna blinked.
"S-Satria-sama? What are you—"
He raised a hand, gently gesturing to a lone cloud drifting above.
"Even the sky sheds a tear... when a kind girl's heart is breaking."
A pause.
Then—despite herself—Shuna snorted, letting out a surprised laugh between sniffles.
"…That was ridiculously dramatic."
"But it made you smile," Satria said, eyes gentle.
Her smile faded again. "Why do you care?" she snapped. "You're only here because Rimuru-sama or Onii-san begged you to come, right? I don't need pity."
Satria shook his head and knelt in front of her. Not proud, not lofty—just there.
"No one begged me, Shuna. I came because I wanted to. I know you probably… don't like me. And I don't blame you."
He looked at his hands, then back up at her.
"But rejection doesn't mean the end. It's not a wall. It's… a redirection. Like wind nudging a paper plane—not crashing it, just changing its path."
He pulled out a small piece of paper, folded it swiftly into a paper airplane, and flicked it into the air.
The paper glided perfectly, catching the silver light, sailing into the starlit sky like a shooting star.
"…That's… kinda cheesy."
Satria grinned. "But cool, right?"
Shuna stared at him, then burst into laughter. Genuine. Honest. Her voice rang softly in the night air, and her tears were finally gone. Her shoulders still shook—but this time, with warmth.
"…Yeah. It was stupidly cool."
Satria gave a mock bow like an actor finishing a heartfelt monologue.
"When your heart is ready, Shuna… someone worthy will catch it. Someone who sees you. Until then… Chin up. The moon shines brighter on those who walk tall."
He stood, and hesitated—then glanced at her with a sheepish grin.
"Also... I probably forgot to mention this earlier, but... your scent reminds me of someone. That warm, comforting smell of a great cook and a loving housewife. I don't know who'll win your heart one day—but I do know they'll be the luckiest bastard alive."
Shuna's face went beet red. "B-Baka! Pervert! Who says something like that with a straight face?!"
"What? I'm just stating facts." Satria pulled something from behind his back and held it out to her. "And as an apology... here."
She blinked. It was an elegant apron embroidered with sakura patterns, and a sleek, glowing cooking knife that seemed far too advanced for an ordinary kitchen.
"What… is this?"
"They're prototypes." Satria puffed out his chest, clearly proud. "The knife can transform any object into edible food—yes, even rocks or spoiled ingredients. And the apron? It's embedded with nanomachines that assist with cooking recipes from Rimuru's world. It even gives step-by-step holograms. Cool, right?"
Shuna blinked at the gifts, then looked up again—only to find that he was already gone.
A beat later—
THUD—WHOOSH—RATTLE—RING!
From the roof of a nearby building, Satria somersaulted four stories down, landed perfectly on a parked bicycle, and began pedaling away… somehow managing to look majestic the whole time.
Shuna stood frozen, apron in hand, watching him disappear into the neon-lit distance.
"…What is he…?" she whispered.
Unbeknownst to Shuna, her "private moment" had been anything but private.
Hidden behind a line of sakura trees, a very un-stealthy group was crouched, eavesdropping with wide eyes and muffled giggles.
Kiyohime, Rimuru, Fran, Kurumi, Koneko, Valiana, Great Red, Jeanne, Crom, Morgan, Ophis, Fatalis, and even Benimaru were all gathered like curious children peeking through a fence.
Kurumi whispered with a smirk, "Ara~ Looks like our Puppy has a dramatic streak after all."
Rimuru, eyes sparkling, nodded. "I didn't know he could be this smooth. I thought I was the only one who got caught by his dumb trick…"
Fran clutched her hands to her chest. "My Lord truly has the heart of a prince…"
Valiana raised an eyebrow. "A prince, huh? More like a trouble magnet with pretty words."
Even Ophis cracked a rare smile. "That was... mildly entertaining."
As the paper plane drifted into the sky, Satria suddenly turned on his heel and walked coolly toward them, a smug grin plastered across his face.
"So? What'd you think?" he said, brushing dust from his coat. "I can be really charismatic when I want, right?"
Benimaru stepped forward, expression surprisingly gentle. He placed a firm hand on Satria's shoulder.
"I trust my little sister to you, My Lord. You handled that well."
Satria froze. A single sweatdrop rolled down his temple.
"...Bro. You trying to get me killed? You want me to die young?!"
Before Benimaru could reply, a shadow loomed behind Satria.
THWACK! SMACK! SLAP! BONK!
In the next instant, all of Satria's wives were on him like wild cats on prey.
"Who told you to flirt with her?!"
"Ara ara~, cheating in front of us now? Bold."
"You're supposed to comfort her, not make her blush!"
"You need punishment, my dear Emperor."
Satria flailed under the barrage of loving fury.
"WAAHHH!! STOP, STOP! WHO WAS FLIRTING?! I WAS JUST—DOING WHAT YOU ALL TOLD ME TO DO!"
He rolled on the ground in comedic agony as Kurumi and Rimuru each pulled an ear.
"That doesn't mean you had to act like a shoujo manga protagonist!"
"Honestly, do you have a secret harem-building skill we don't know about?" Rimuru muttered.
Jeanne sighed, hands on hips. "Still... that was kind of sweet of you."
Kiyohime helped Satria up, brushing dust from his shoulders. "Just be careful next time, Danna-sama. You're already surrounded by women who dangerously love you so much."
Fatalis leaned in with a smirk. "One more, and we'll need to make a queue just to kiss you good morning."
Satria, finally standing again, groaned dramatically.
"Why is it every time I try to fix something... I end up almost dead...?"
A long pause. Then:
Everyone: "Because you're you."
•
Early Morning in Neo-Nusato...
As the sky warmed with the golden hues of dawn, Emperor Satria was already awake. Clad in a crisp white koko shirt, embroidered subtly with traditional patterns from his homeland, he exuded quiet dignity. A peaceful contrast to his usual powerful aura.
He walked with calm purpose through the tranquil alleys of his district, heading toward the modest mosque built near his residence—a place of worship and reflection for immigrants from his homeland and citizens of Tempest alike.
When the prayers concluded, Satria greeted the people with a warm smile and began his personal patrol through the neighborhood.
House by house, he checked on his citizens—not as a ruler looking down on his subjects, but as a guardian ensuring their peace. He spoke to his citizens to ensure that his people were well under his reign, played briefly with children, even helping the work of the Tempest residents who are busy with their morning activities. His presence was like a breeze—light, but deeply felt.
No complaints. No unrest. Just smiles and sincere gratitude.
Behind him, a group of women watched quietly, following his steps like a shadow softened by affection.
Jeanne, Morgan, Kurumi, and Fran walked together, each with her own thoughts.
"...I never thought I'd see a ruler like this," Morgan muttered, arms crossed, violet eyes narrowed with curiosity. "A king who actually walks among his people like an equal... not a god, not a tyrant."
Jeanne clasped her hands together. "All that power, all that authority... and he still prays, still smiles, still listens." She blushed slightly. "It's strange. He acts so silly sometimes, but his heart never wavers... Master's… truly a good man."
Kurumi chuckled playfully. "Ara~, Fran-chan, you're still standing after last night? I thought you passed out after… well, you know~." She nudged the black catgirl with a teasing wink.
Fran didn't even blink. "I'm his blade. It's my duty to be at his side whenever I can... And I'm not as fragile as you think, Kurumi." She gave a rare, smug grin. "Didn't I prove that to thou last night?"
Kurumi fanned herself dramatically. "Ufufu, to think the shy kitten is now a tigress. I won't deny—you were a great help. Honestly, he's too much for just me alone... even four of us together can barely keep up."
Morgan raised a brow, clearly unimpressed. "He's that good? Then why haven't you let me test his... 'quality' for myself, Master?"
Kurumi's smile faded into a more thoughtful expression. "It's not that simple, Morgan-san. Satria only gives himself to those he truly loves—and who are married to him. He's not the type of man who see intimacy as politics or pleasure." She folded her arms. "He has rules... and a heart that won't break them."
Jeanne nodded with flushed cheeks. "It's... better that way."
Suddenly, the voice of the living sword, still strapped to Fran's back, grumbled in frustration. "Unbelievable... I'd complain more, but damn it—he's everything a leader should be. Argh, I hate how much I respect him."
Just then, a shadow loomed over them.
"You girls gossiping behind my back again?"
They all jumped in place.
Satria stood behind them, hands behind his back and a sly smile on his face.
"I'm flattered... or should I be worried?"
Kurumi giggled, Morgan rolled her eyes, Jeanne tried to look composed, and Fran simply nodded like nothing had happened.
"We were just admiring our Emperor's good points," Kurumi teased, looping her arm into his. "Though you might want to walk lighter, dear. One day, you'll give someone a heart attack."
Satria chuckled. "Heh. Well, what kind of Emperor would I be if I didn't keep everyone on their toes?"
•
Back at the Residence…
The morning sun had risen higher by the time Satria and his companions returned to his residence. A calm breeze danced through the open windows as the household stirred to life. Waiting for them at the entrance were more of his beloved companions.
With a teasing smile, Fatalis stepped forward first, hands behind her back, voice dripping with mischief.
"Welcome back, dear~ So, what will it be? Breakfast, bath, or... me~?"
Satria chuckled, not missing a beat.
"Breakfast sounds good… bath? Already done it. You… hmm…" He suddenly swept her up in his arms and dropped onto the nearby sofa, cuddling her like a plush pillow. "How about you become my breakfast instead~?"
Fatalis giggled, melting into his arms.
"Hehehe~ Love me more, pamper me~!"
From behind, Valiana, the proud white dragon empress, yawned as she entered, rubbing her eyes with sleepy elegance.
"Mornin'... Ah~ Fatalis-san, move over. Hmph. You always smell so good. Hubby, give me some too."
She snuggled into Satria's other side without hesitation.
Then came Great Red, dragging her feet with a pout so dramatic it belonged on stage.
"Seriously? You four had a date with him without me?" She grumbled, glaring at the others. "I was outside your door all night, and you locked me out!"
Satria chuckled, stroking her head fondly.
"Worry not, Red. You're next." He smirked. "But are you sure you wanna stay with me? I mean… you've seen how I live. Not exactly a decent role model here and... How about the Dimensional Gap in your world? Are you sure gonna leave it unprotected?"
Before he could finish the sentence, Great Red raised her hand and—whack!—chopped him squarely on the head.
"Ouch! Hey, what was that for?!"
"Don't give me that self-deprecating garbage. I've made my choice. Who gives a damn about the Dimensional Gap?" she huffed. "It's just a boring empty void. This is where the fun is!"
"I do."
A cold voice cut through the air like a blade of ice. Ophis stepped forward, expression flat as ever, but her presence spoke volumes.
She handed Great Red a scroll with unnerving calm.
"If you wish to abandon the Gap, fill out this form. Deed of transfer. Ownership of the Dimensional Gap… by the laws of Tempest."
Great Red blinked, stunned. "…You made legal paperwork?"
Ophis raised an eyebrow, her poker face unchanging.
"Of course. I may be quiet, but I'm not an idiot."
"Hmph. I underestimated you… I thought you were just a moody gremlin with no clue how the world works."
"How funny… I thought you were a muscle-brained lizard with nothing but hot air in her skull."
Their cold glares met like lightning on water.
Satria sighed loudly, sinking deeper into the couch as his dragons traded barbs.
"Yup… this is gonna be my daily life, huh?"
He summoned a book toward him via telekinesis and opened it calmly in his lap.
Valiana, curious, tilted her head.
"Oh? What book is that?"
"Just something light for the morning. Title's 'Surrounded by Idiots' by Thomas Erikson."
There was a pause.
Then… three girls pouted immediately.
"We're not idiots!" Valiana huffed, clearly offended.
"Ara~ Did you just call us that, darling?" Kurumi narrowed her eyes suspiciously.
"True! You're the weirdest one in the room!" Fatalis folded her arms, joining in with mock indignation.
Satria chuckled awkwardly and raised his hands in defense. "Wait, wait—this book isn't calling anyone names. This Book is to encourage self awareness and Behavioural flexibility. Helping people to stop thinking of others as 'Idiot' just because they think or act differently from you. Instead this book will teach us to appreciate diversity in communication style." He scratched the back of his head. "Honestly, I'm reading it for myself, not to judge you girls. You're all unique and lovable in your own ways. I'm sorry to offend you girls, okay?"
The girls fell silent.
Blushes crept onto their cheeks. One by one, they leaned in again—snuggling, coiling, or nuzzling into him.
"Sorry for doubting you, hubby…" Valiana mumbled.
"We forgive you… but only if you keep spoiling us," Fatalis cooed.
"Fufufu~ How can we not love such a thoughtful man?" Kurumi giggled.
"...My master is too soft." Fran said softly, but her smile betrayed her affection.
Satria let out a helpless laugh as he tried to keep reading, buried under Dragons, Spirits, and Nekomusume all asking for cuddles and affection.
"C'mon… I said I was reading—ah, forget it. This is fine too."
He closed the book and rested his head back with a content sigh. The sunlight poured through the curtains, and the aroma of a warm, delicious breakfast began to drift through the room.
Just then, the door opened softly.
"Senpai, everyone… breakfast is ready." Koneko entered, wearing a white apron decorated with cute cat motifs.
Satria blinked, then grinned.
"Oh? My little white kitten cooked today? It's rare to see you in an apron. You look absolutely adorable, dear."
Koneko blushed, ears twitching slightly.
"Hehe~ Really…? Th-thank you, Senpai…"
"Stop flirting and get up already!" Rimuru, arms crossed, shot Satria an exasperated look. "Let's eat. I've got work to do. Ugh… I can't believe I ended up stuck with an office job in a fantasy world! Where's my happy-go-lucky adventure arc?" She sighed dramatically, collapsing into a nearby chair. "At least we've got modern tech—emails, computers, and phones here—because if I had to rely on scribes and scrolls, I'd go crazy."
Just then—BANG! The door flew open without warning.
"Y-YOUR MAJESTY!! Emergency report!!!" Gobta stormed in, panting. "Th-that little girl… she's back again! And she's even angrier than last time—oh! Did I, uh… interrupt something?" He froze, eyes wide as he spotted Satria still surrounded by his wives in various states of cuddly bliss.
"Gobta…" Rimuru's voice dropped into a warning tone. "What did we say about knocking?!"
"Hehe… sorry!" Gobta rubbed the back of his head sheepishly and bowed apologetically.
Satria smirked, sitting up slightly. "Let me guess. The pink-haired menace is back, huh? That girl really doesn't give up… Can't even scratch the wall, but still charges in like she's in an anime boss battle." He sighed theatrically. "I swear, what is it with pink-haired girls and explosive mood swings? Is there some kind of cosmic design flaw?"
Fatalis burst out laughing.
"Pfft! Ahaha! When you say it like that, it's hard to argue! Maybe it is factory-set behavior."
Rimuru, meanwhile, had stiffened. "Hold on—attacking?! She's attacking us? Is she an enemy?! Why didn't you lead with that?!" She grabbed Satria's cheeks and stretched them. "Why are you just lounging around?! Do something!"
Satria gently pulled her hands down and kissed her on the forehead, smiling warmly.
"Relax, my dear Empress. If it were truly dangerous, I'd handle it myself. Besides… the wall's defenses are holding. It's practically a joke at this point. Not even a Demon Lord can leave a scratch and this is the perfect time."
"D-Demon Lord?!" Rimuru's eyes went wide in horror. "Wait, wait—what do you mean 'perfect time'? What are you planning now?!"
Satria smiled mischievously, resting a hand on her shoulder.
"Do you know what the Empress's role is?"
Rimuru blinked, confused, and shook her head slowly.
"The Empress plays a key role in diplomacy. She hosts foreign dignitaries, builds alliances, and… handles emotionally unstable loli Demon Lords who won't take a hint."
His eyes sparkled with amusement.
Rimuru froze.
"You don't mean—NO. No way. You're not asking me to…?!"
Satria nodded.
"I'm counting on you~"
Rimuru's jaw dropped.
"You… you just want to throw me to the lion!! I didn't sign up for this!"
"You're the most qualified. Cute, kind, and morally grounded. You'll be fine."
"NO!!! I'm not trained for this kind of psychological warfare!"
Satria leaned back, hands behind his head, completely relaxed.
"Don't worry, dear Empress. I believe in you."
Rimuru groaned dramatically as she dragged herself toward the door.
"One of these days… I will get my isekai dream arc back. But not today…"
The household resumed its chaotic harmony, with breakfast on the table, laughter in the air, and a pink-haired girl screaming somewhere in the distance.
To be continued...