Tensei Shitara Slime Datta

Chapter 191: Key Skills

I cannot return to Tempest until the coming of Krishna. However, I did not just rest in a relaxed manner while waiting for the coming of Krishna. Just as Emperor Rudra wished, I will take his place to maintain the peace and order of the Imperial Capital. I conferred with the nobles who had requested a meeting, patrolled the Imperial Capital or that was what I claimed when I went to visit the Imperial Capital. I was very busy . Since the sightseeing served as an inspection of the city structure, I did not play around. However, it turned into recreation. For the reconstruction, there was no need to do anything special now. After all, there was no damage to the building, the main damage was to the human population. However, when their relatives are robbed by the angels, it may be necessary for us to take mental treatment to overcome the fears of the citizens who will be ruled by the Demon King. Don't you think that such things wouldn't be a suitable task for the demons? But unexpectedly, this is not true. Emotion-eating demons are helpful, as they reduce the burden of the mind by eating emotions such as fear and anxiety of the citizens. Although there will be negative effects for citizens if all their emotions are eaten, I order them to adjust citizens' emotions to moderation. That doesn't mean all of the residents' grief is gone, but it could prevent them from putting up a rebellion or organizing a resistance, so it might be best for them. Although the demons would probably remove it when such signs were seen. I predict that they will not report such small things at all. Before the match, Yuuki or rather Angra Mainyu made sure to pluck all the sprouts from the worrisome elements. . . . . . I intend to ignore things like that can't help when that happens. I do not intend to harass civilians, but I will not hesitate to crush them if they raise an armed rebellion. Since I don't want such a thing to happen if possible, I feel relieved when the Devil-style mental treatment is successful.

Dino seems to be showing his true colors in Tempest, as if he is waiting for the time when we will be in the middle of a battle with the Empire's army (or rather, we might be the ones to choose the time). I confirm the damage immediately, Gerudo has received a serious injury while Shion and Souei seem to be lightly injured. Shion's injury was only at a rate that would soon heal, while Souei couldn't be called injured, therefore I felt relieved. On the other hand, Gerudo's injury seems to be very bad. It did not endanger his life, however, he seemed to have fallen into a situation that required complete rest. Due to my concerns, I returned to check his condition with the transfer gate at rest. 「Hei, Gerudo. Are you okay?"

I asked her about her condition as soon as I entered the treatment room. I saw Gerudo's pathetic appearance. For Gerudo, who had a high recovery rate, still in this condition, it was probably the influence of the enemy's abilities. When I heard about his condition, I saw him while referring to the [1]....fight archive, where Shion and Souei used Gerudo as a living shield, was clearly projected. "How cruel!" It was my feeling that made me want to comfort Gerudo from the bottom of my heart. No. As far as I can see, they have repulsed two fallen angels who have higher rankings and as a strategy this is probably the most optimal choice. It was a secret, which I thought, that I was a bit afraid of this lack of mercy. I am sure that this action is exactly like the action in the strategy devised by Raphael-san.

「Oh Rimuru-sama! I, Gerudo am really embarrassed, because of my own futility, this one has made you worry. This one will devote myself more than now, and gain a harder body that won't be injured so far! 」

Oh.... don't you think that you're tough enough now? After all, he amazed me with how he had received the attacks of two Demon Lord class enemies who had awakened so many times, yet did not get any fatal injuries. Although, it was probably the result of her self-recovery ability aided by Shion's skill.

"–Is it so . Then I will anticipate it. In that case, I'll just help you out a little. 」

After I say, I run the evolution of Gerudo.

《Notice. Do you want to do Individual Evolution: Gerudo? YES NO"

I replied with YES, and sent 100,000 souls to Gerudo. In this way, Gerudo had developed into an Awakened Demon King as well.

「This is just a perfect opportunity, while you imagine the appearance you want for yourself, you should take a break. 」「 Understood! I'm so grateful for the blessing you've given me! 」

Leaving Gerudo who thanked me, I entrusted the rest to the care officer, and left the room. Because I was so touched and almost cried, it could be said that I had escaped. Because I hope half-baked won't be good, when it comes to the Great War. Gerudo evolution had a good time, but I don't think I'm very happy. The ceremony finished without any problems as he did not refuse this time.

And, there's another job for me. I went to the labyrinth group post. Inside the labyrinth, Dino seemed to be aiming for Ramiris, so there was a need to deal with him in the future. I listened to the story, because it was necessary for the future. Dino had defeated Beretta, he had also defeated Adalman and Albert, it seemed like he had almost laid a hand on Ramiris. Oh well, in the end, Ramiris is safe because Zegion is protecting her, it was a smart decision to watch her from the start, as I expected Dino's betrayal. But that doesn't mean Beretta and Adalman are weak. They are very powerful, but Dino is a stronger enemy than we thought.

Also, I was surprised by Zegion's incredible appearance. He is out of normality. Among my subordinates, he and Diablo formed a pair of incomparable strong men. His strength was clearly on a different level than the other floor guards. When I looked at the archives, Zegion seemed to have defeated Dino easily, while still hiding his abilities. What a scary kid. Honestly, I think it's a very good thing that he's my ally.

I don't mean to say that the performance of Adalman and the others was bad, I want to praise them, for spending very good time. However, I fear that those, who are very sincere, will blame themselves again. And, as I thought, I,

「I'm so sorry, Rimuru-sama. I have exposed Ramiris-sama with danger―― 」

When I was called Beretta, Adalman and his friends lowered their heads and apologized to me. As expected . I think they will feel some kind of responsibility, like this.

「No, didn't you guys manage to stall Dino, according to plan, right? That's an incredible achievement. 」「 However, I am a central figure in defense. Although I was appointed by Rimuru-sama as the guardian of Ramiris-sama, in this crisis―― 」

Beretta was still arguing loudly. He must have been very frustrated, but I believe that he is not the only one who is paying attention to whether he can win or not, other than that he is taking the most appropriate action. She seemed to finally calm down, as I praised her that it was an amazing job. Beretta and Adalman have earned quite a lot of achievements, not only from making reckless attacks knowing that it is impossible to win against Dino. Regarding the result, Ramiris is safe so there is no problem whatsoever. Besides,

「Oh well, I understand your feelings regretting your lack of strength. If so, then I will give you all more power! 」

So, I took a pose as if showing the "Great Demon King!", and held my hand over Adalman's head.

《Notice。 Do you want to do Individual evolution: Adalman? YES NO "

I reply with YES and the evolution of Adalman's resurrection is complete. Next up is Beretta. Fortunately, I gained a large number of souls during the battle with the Imperial Army, therefore I was able to develop Beretta. Although I have changed the relationship of master and servant with Ramiris as master rather than me, Beretta is still one of the demons I created. Even now, I have authority as a sub-master, and there is also an important duty to protect Ramiris. Since I can strengthen it, I want to wake it up. The strength needed to accompany the four dragon kings. 「You too, Beretta. From now on, keep protecting Ramiris! 」

I ended the evolution of Beretta's resurrection when I ordered her.

"Yes! I'll risk his life! 」

Beretta nodded deeply at my words and seemed to accept evolution. Then I told him to recuperate calmly and get him back to his job. Oh well, it was because they were strong to the point that even if the enemy was a bit strong, the defense of the labyrinth would be fine. However, there was also the possibility that the guards would need to advance to face the enemy. If Beretta is in charge of Ramiris protection and labyrinth management, then I will feel more confident.

And with this, one of my tasks ended. When I visited Ramiris who was sleeping innocently on the sofa, he seemed to be sleeping happily.

Quite relieved because he's safe. 「Munya munya .... Are you ! I'll test all 48 of my special moves on you .....」

Does he talk while sleeping? This guy, and he's even confident in his dreams ……

「I'm so glad you're safe. 」

I said, in a small voice so as not to wake her up, and then left the room. I have entrusted Shuna to take care of Ramiris. Since he's just sleeping, it'll be fine.

I believe that the labyrinth will be fine as long as the Zegion protects it, but for now I ask about it from the Zegion as well.

What is he trying to say? A strike that crosses space-time? I might not be able to do that ... What monsters this guy considers as ……

「Ah, yes. That's right ... Maybe, I might be able to do that, right. ""yeah! It is a simple task if it is Rimuru-sama. 」

This is far beyond respect, I feel his gaze is more like someone who respects their Gods. Since the Zegion has compound eyes, this might be nothing more than my imagination. While calming down, I spoke to Zegion for a moment. Apparently, he carved a curse onto Dino. Not a type of Mind Manipulation, but a terrifying kind that even had power over life and death.

In the case that the target did not act according to the practitioner's intentions, it could directly rob their life target. However, it could not create detailed restrictions, such as withholding target actions, so it could not really limit what the other party would do. Although he seemed to know when the target was lying, there were no special restrictions other than that. He was able to make it impossible, for the target, to say anything about the curse to others, because it was a gesture for the activation of the ability. Simply put, it was a curse that captured the life and death of the target. Refusing is impossible after the curse is carved. In other words, it was already impossible for Dino to lift the curse, huh. It was possible for him to take it out, with the cooperation of a high-ranking skill holder. But at least the Zegion, could create a barrier even on the owner of the Ultimate Skill. Of course, he could take his life on such an occasion, as he had caused Dino's death once before. Currently, Dino was living with the temporary life that Zegion had given him. To be honest, Lord Mephisto『's Highest Skill 』Illusion seems to be an outrageous ability. I have a feeling, that at least for this person, there is no one else with outstanding battle specialties and skill abilities. You could say they complement each other. Zegion had obtained a skill that eliminated his weakness, while there were many people who obtained the skill to increase their strength instead. With his skill, he can create a favorable situation for himself, he also expands his ability to use it effectively. His combat feeling becomes more important than this point, however, on this aspect I can say that he excels. Zegion was a very scary man. After that, I contacted Dino through a curse, giving her a warning. Oh well, for the man, fighting against him might be simpler. It is said that an incompetent friend is scarier than a very good enemy. In the case of Dino, you can think that he contributed to this side just by being on the enemy side. At most, I want him to block Yuuki's side. I went around for various other things and after finishing my business in Tempest, I returned to the Imperial Capital.

I return to the Imperial Capital. I started thinking about skills while taking command as the leader of the troops. It was the most important thing to do before Krishna came. The battle between the demons and the Royal Knights and the confrontation follows with Yuuki who becomes Angra Mainyu, as well as the fight between Zegion and Dino. The information I have obtained from these events has cast doubt in me. It has to do with something I have not thought deeply about until now; about the foundation of this world. That's how it is, so that's what's happening, but I can't ignore my question about the current of these events. In other words,

"What is a Skill?"

About this issue . I have a Unique Skill ever since I came to this world. Basically, it was said that only hero-class individuals possessed Unique Skills. However, its abilities vary because it is called unique; that is, similar. Because it was unique, there was a huge difference in the strength of the ability, if it became an Ultimate Skill, then there would be a difference in strength, such as heaven and earth. The people who obtained the Ultimate Skill would understand the laws of the world. Therefore, they were existences that excelled in utilizing magic. Since it is superior to Unique Skills, I think that the only thing that can oppose Ultimate Skills, is another Ultimate Skill. But, it doesn't seem like an absolute rule, even though it's true. For example, Chloe's 『Infinite Jail』 and 『Absolute Severance』. Although these skills were a unique class, their strength, could basically be said to belong to the main class. Depending on the situation, it might even win against the holders of the Ultimate Skill. In addition, the demons have shown this, by defeating the Royal Knights who have the Highest Gift of 『Alternative』, which is the ultimate class, with their Unique Skills. In other words, the difference between Ultimate and Unique is not absolute. Even if I think about it from such a point of view, then a question arises: "What is 'skill'?".

It is still easy to understand the innate skills of the species. Because, as stated, it is a skill that certain species possess. I can also grasp Extra Skills and Basic Skills, such as swordsmanship and magic. Because such skills only make a difference between each individual based on their level of proficiency. However, Unique Skills produced individually, and the performance of each was also different. There were also similar ones that could be grouped together, but none of them were identical. Perhaps, even if the skills had the same name, their performance and rules might be different. From my current experience, I am convinced that it is easy to awaken an ability by having a strong desire or desire. Instead of talent, it's talent. No matter how great your desire is, you cannot obtain it if your energy is insufficient. After all, skills were not something that could be obtained by mere expectation. A skill's strength or weakness is directly affected by willpower. In order to realize a stronger effect, a strong will is required. In the end, I guess determination will be used as the main resource. After ascertaining the nature of the skill, the next step is to properly investigate its use. Since I have Raphael-san with me, I have him teach me the correct usage. Even through acquiring skills on their own, it was not like one would understand how to use them. A good example is Dino. According to Raphael-san, Dino's skill seems to be 『Slothful Lord Belphegor』 from the Deadly Sin series. The Deadly Sin series was a skill placed at the top rank among Ultimate Skills. Even so, he was completely defeated by Zegion. It was the result that Raphael-san predicted. I was half sure, but Raphael-san confirmed that the labyrinth was fine if Zegion was there. The result was exactly what Raphael-san said. Then I heard the reason, though,

《Solution. Individual Dino has made the wrong use of the skill. 》

So, he explained in that way, like saying it as a matter of course. 『Slothful Lord Belphegor』 born of lazy mind becomes progressively weaker as the holder moves. Therefore, the correct way to use it is to hire subordinates (or friends). Only by giving the use of his abilities to the proxy would the skill show his true strength. If it was Guy, He would understand the nature of the ability and master it properly. However, a lazy bone like Dino did not seem to notice the true nature of the skill. Instead, he might just master the skill instinctively and in an unexpected way if he were to always rely on others. His defeat was the result of his move. That person had such a character, and perhaps that was why he survived. Of course, the moniker of "the more he works, the more he fails" is not just for show. In addition, there are also other skills that are difficult to control, such as Masayuki's, even though he himself does not want it, as he is naturally seen as a hero. Isn't it hard to know the true nature of the skill and how to master it? It is synonymous with understanding one's heart, a complicated task. That is why you will never be able to display actual performance if you mistake that 'skill' is just a weapon or something like that.

Next question.

'Is it possible to duplicate the Ultimate Skill and give it to the subordinates?'

The true nature of Dino's skill is the Ultimate Gift mass-produced by 『Justice Lord Michael』. Transfer skills to subordinates or friends, but can I transfer found abilities? I cannot deny the possibility because there may have been previous examples. However, if possible, does that mean it is possible to create an invincible army?

I thought about it to that extent and immediately denied my own thoughts. If you just think about it, it won't be that easy. Of course the Royal Knights who had the Supreme Gift were strong. However, there were only two people who could truly master their Supreme Gift, they were Damrada and the warrior who was Royal Knight No. 3, Grenaeet-san. After all the other people did not understand the nature of the Grand Prize, and were thus defeated by demons who only possessed Unique Skills. In my opinion, even Damrada was only equal to or slightly inferior to Hinata during his prime. He was indeed strong, but the Supreme Gift was weak. It might be different from the man named Kondo who has developed his own abilities. I'm sure that guy is special. From the fact that he did not falter even while being overwhelmed by Carrera and was on par with Diablo just in terms of his strength. (Hey, is it possible for me to give the Grand Prize to my subordinates?) 《Solution. That's probably》

Raphael answered as if it was nothing. I seem to be able to give a copy of my ability to someone who has a knack for it. However, it was meaningless if that person could not master it. Come to think of it, doesn't 『Pasokan』 fit into the 』 Food Chain? From the very beginning, Raphael-san had given abilities only to people who had talent and were able to overcome them. And for people who want it, for example the skills of Zegion and Veldora-san, a reinforced remodel version will be done. Even if I only give a strong ability, I cannot give mastery to it.

Therefore, for reinforcement, it was possible even if they asked for it from the very beginning. Because if they don't ask for it, then it will be in vain. Rudra was wrong at the time. No, even if he realized it, he might not be able to help but do so. Even if a strong skill was given, it would be meaningless if the person himself did not understand their own thoughts or the strong will to master the ability.

Down to the last question.

'First of all, what is Angra Mainyu?'

It could be something like multiple personalities called dissociative identity disorder. However, Raphael-san thought that it might be an evolved existence from Will that grew out of skill. I can also understand such a deep understanding of skills. From the beginning, it was the same as when Raphael-san took over my body and I became stronger. Autonomous will is made from abilities that eliminate emotions. A troublesome existence. Neither negotiations nor negotiations with him may have been meaningless. If his goal was to destroy the world, then he would receive nothing but absolute destruction. It seemed meaningless to expect him to change his intentions. Because if it was Raphael, he would accept my demands and settle them. And the angels that were with him. The high-ranking individuals called Seraphim had a high volume of energy for the level of an Awakened Demon Lord. And they seem to be some kind of spiritual life form. The weak point of angels, the aspect that makes them inferior compared to demons, is that angels have no Will. The power of spiritual life forms was changed by their will. Angels only have high energy and are therefore not really a threat. Although they are strong, they are like robots that just follow their commands, I predict that they will be weak as individuals. However, they would be existences that rivaled demons if they had a will. Unlike before, now the angels have reached incarnation. If the will of the captured ones awakens, I think they will turn into a very troublesome army. It was highly likely that individuals who obtained Skills would appear among them. What would happen if the Grand Prize was given to such people? In addition, if I give the Grand Prize. . . . . . While it is highly likely that they will not be able to master it, can I confirm their talent with Raphael? As expected, in the case that Yuuki \= Angra Mainyu can ensure talent and increase the number of their skill holders, it will be an obvious threat. If so, this party would also oppose it, so, should I give some Grand Prize to the executives? If they become stronger, even if only a little. I was confused as to whether I should do it or not, even though it turned out to be useless. "Question . To strengthen those who have talent, do you want to promote their skills? YES NO"

N? Is that so, giving help to those who are in the middle of evolution, huh? Helping out with what kind of ability promotion am I doing with Zegion? That might be good too.

I reply with YES.

The feeling of wanting to strengthen my subordinates, to oppose the enemy forces, seems to be transmitted, even if only a little. How else would it be if I was confused, but it only took this much time to make my heart and mind contradict each other. However, if you think about it, Raphael-san always gives me help. Even now, he has taken appropriate action and he will reorganize my skills. However, I still have no suitable way to call him other than 『Guru』 or 『Raphael-san』. Suddenly I had a subconscious mind. (Hey, Raphael .... should I give you an official name as well? That's true ...... because you always teach me about things, how about “Ciel” ≒ oshieru [2]?)

As soon as I said it strangely,

《！！！！！！！！》

I felt an intense Will, as if going insane, from Raphael. At the same time, various information started flowing into me, and became a torrent.

《Notice. Manas (The Essence of God's Wisdom): Ciel was born from the Final Skill 『God Raphael』 Wisdom. This announcement was hidden by Manas: Ciel. 》

Suddenly, "World Voice" had reached my mind. This ..... is an evolution? Raphael-sensei, it seems like no Ciel-sensei can hide it in concealment mode. Ciel seems to be able to hide the "World Voice". I was amazed . But, more than such a thing. Looks like I did it again. Well, as expected, someone who names a skill, affectionately, like a pervert, may not have existed, until now.

《I, I'm Ciel. The one who integrates skills, Manas. Who will support my master, in the soul of Demon Lord Rimuru. Teacher, once again, please treat me well!!》

Ooh ..... Even though he still has a robotic tone, he has become very eloquent!? I feel that the performance of his calculation speed and other things has been improved to some extent. Putting my skills together seems to have improved my skills. It was just a sudden idea, but the results surprised me. (It's nice to meet you, Ciel ......?) 《Yes! Please treat me well, Sir!》

Then “Ciel” was born apart from Raphael. "Ciel" will play a further role as my sub-brain unites my abilities.