Padrino stood at the edge of the balcony, gazing out over the sprawling city of Rimuru. In the distance, the low hum of everyday life had returned. The market square, once a center of tension, bustled with activity. Refugees had begun settling back into their lives, farmers returned to their fields, and artisans once again crafted their wares. But despite the outward calm, the weight of responsibility pressed on Padrino's shoulders.
His thoughts swirled around the growing unrest from the northern warlords. Even though the internal rebellion had been quelled with Lucan's defeat, there were far greater dangers looming beyond the horizon. The north had always been a wild region, with powerful warlords constantly at odds, each trying to carve out territory. Rumors were already spreading about a new alliance forming, one that could threaten everything Padrino had worked to protect.
He gripped the edge of the stone railing, the cool wind brushing his face. The weight of leadership, though familiar by now, still carried a burden he couldn't easily shake.
Hinata approached quietly, her presence calm and steady as always. "You're thinking about them, aren't you?" she asked softly.
Padrino didn't turn, but he nodded. "I can feel it coming, Hinata. The warlords. They've been waiting for this. They know our forces are tired from the rebellion. They know we're vulnerable."
"They'll underestimate us, as they always have," Hinata replied, standing beside him. Her silver hair shimmered in the afternoon light, and the steady calm in her voice offered a small comfort. "Rimuru is stronger than they think. You've prepared us well."
"But strength alone won't be enough," Padrino said, turning to look at her. "We've lost people. Lucan's rebellion fractured us. Even now, some of the council members doubt our ability to hold Rimuru together. They fear another revolt."
Hinata's eyes narrowed in thought. "The council needs to see leadership, unity. If they sense even a shred of uncertainty from you, it will ripple through the people. You have to remind them why we're here, why we fought so hard to build this kingdom in the first place."
Padrino nodded slowly. He knew she was right, but that didn't make the path ahead any easier. The storm was gathering in the north, and the last thing Rimuru needed was internal division.
"I'm calling a meeting with the council," Padrino said firmly, standing straight. "We need to discuss how to strengthen our defenses and prepare for the inevitable. There can be no more hesitation."
Hinata smiled gently. "That's the Padrino I know. Lead them, and they will follow."
In the Council Hall
The grand council hall was abuzz with nervous energy as Padrino entered. His presence silenced the room, all eyes turning toward him. At the long table sat the key members of his inner circle—Marko, Lady Elara, Vincent, and several other advisors, their expressions a mixture of concern and curiosity.
Padrino took his seat at the head of the table. "We have little time to waste. The northern warlords are preparing to move. Lucan's rebellion may be over, but our position is far from secure. We must begin preparations for the coming storm."
Marko leaned forward, his sharp eyes narrowing. "We expected this. The question is, how do we counter their forces? Our soldiers are still recovering from the rebellion, and our resources are stretched thin."
Lady Elara, always the voice of caution, interjected. "We can't afford another war right now, Padrino. The people are weary. If we press them too hard, we risk pushing them into another revolt."
Padrino listened carefully, weighing their words. They weren't wrong. The kingdom had been through enough strife, and the people were tired. But the warlords would show no mercy. If Rimuru was seen as weak, they would strike with all their might.
"We need to buy time," Padrino said, his voice steady. "Rimuru cannot face another all-out conflict right now, but we can't show weakness either. We need to delay their attack, force them to negotiate."
Vincent, the kingdom's master of diplomacy, nodded. "I can send word to the northern warlords, hinting at possible negotiations. If we can stall their movements, it might give us enough time to strengthen our defenses."
"But what will we offer them in these negotiations?" Marko asked skeptically. "The warlords are ruthless. They won't stop unless they believe they can gain something."
"We'll offer them what they want," Padrino said, his voice firm. "They want land, power, influence. We can promise discussions of trade and alliances, even land concessions—but only if they agree to a ceasefire and official talks."
The council exchanged uncertain glances. Offering land was a dangerous move, but it could be the only way to prevent a full-scale invasion.
Marko crossed his arms, clearly uncomfortable. "It's a risky game, Padrino. If they sense even a hint of weakness, they'll turn the talks into an opportunity to strike."
Padrino nodded grimly. "It is a risk. But it's one we must take. We can't afford an invasion, not now. But if we can delay them long enough, we'll be in a stronger position when the time comes to fight."
The room fell into a heavy silence as the council members considered the plan. Finally, Lady Elara spoke. "I agree with Padrino. We cannot afford a war now. But we must tread carefully. The warlords are cunning, and they will look for any opportunity to undermine us."
Padrino nodded. "Agreed. Vincent, you will handle the negotiations. Be firm, but offer them just enough to keep them talking. Meanwhile, Marko, begin preparations to fortify our defenses. We need to be ready for anything."
Marko sighed but nodded, accepting the orders. "I'll start drawing up plans immediately. We'll be ready."
With the council's approval, the room gradually dispersed, each member heading off to fulfill their tasks. Padrino remained seated, his mind racing. He knew they were walking a dangerous line, but there was no other choice. The storm was coming, and they had to be ready for it.
Later that Night
As the moon hung low over Rimuru, casting a pale glow across the city, Padrino stood alone in his chambers. The weight of leadership pressed down on him more than ever. The rebellion had shaken the kingdom to its core, and now, with the threat of the northern warlords looming, every decision felt like a step into the unknown.
Hinata entered quietly, sensing his turmoil. "You made the right choice today," she said, her voice soft. "But you can't carry this weight alone."
Padrino smiled weakly. "I have no choice, Hinata. Every decision I make now will determine whether Rimuru survives. I can't afford to falter."
Hinata stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. "You don't have to do this alone. We're all with you, Padrino. Marko, Vincent, the council—they believe in you. So do I."
Padrino's gaze softened as he looked at her. "Thank you, Hinata. I just hope that when the time comes, I won't let any of you down."
Hinata smiled, her silver eyes filled with determination. "You won't. You've never let us down before."
As they stood together in the quiet of the night, the storm on the horizon seemed a little less daunting. But Padrino knew that the real battle was yet to come.