Note: I think I'm anticipating this, I was planning to do it in two more chapters to establish the relationship, but recently (at the time of writing this November 2nd) someone was kidnapped near where I live. Obviously, I'm cautious of what's going on the street, but I can't always be sure what's going on around me. So, I better establish the relationship of the protagonists of this story.
Chapter 8
The quiet sound of daily life in Tempest filled the air as Muramasa walked the streets, enjoying a rare moment of calm. The monsters and humans that inhabited the city greeted him respectfully as he passed, although he, as always, responded with a slight nod.
"It's a good day to work on something new," he muttered to himself, thinking of the projects that awaited him in the forge.
However, just as he turned a corner, something changed.
A blink. That was it. In an instant, the sunlight and bustle of Tempest disappeared, replaced by an endless void of purple and black hues, like an abyss between dimensions.
Muramasa stopped short, his golden eyes examining the strange surroundings cautiously. The ground beneath his feet seemed solid, but the air was charged with an energy he couldn't identify.
"What the hell...?" he muttered, instinctively placing a hand on his waist, where he would summon a katana if necessary.
Before he could react, a voice echoed in the void, melodious and dangerous at the same time: "Welcome, Muramasa."
Out of nowhere, an elegant figure emerged, walking with the grace of a predator. He was a man with jet-black hair, bright golden eyes, and a smile that exuded confidence. His bearing was impeccable, dressed in a black suit that seemed to absorb the light.
"Are you Diablo?" asked Muramasa, his tone neutral but full of distrust.
Diablo tilted his head slightly, his smile widening. "Ah, I see you've already heard of me. That makes things easier."
Muramasa did not let his guard down. "What is this place? And why am I here?"
Diablo stopped a few feet away from him, crossing his arms gracefully. "This place... It's a dimension I created specifically for this occasion. And you are here because I have something important to discuss with you."
"Speak clearly."
Diablo's smile faded slightly, showing a flash of seriousness. "My dear Rimuru-sama, my absolute goddess, seems to have developed a... special interest in you."
Muramasa raised an eyebrow. "And that bothers you?"
"To bother me would be to underestimate it," Diablo replied, his tone taking on a dangerous edge. "Rimuru-sama is perfection incarnate. Everything I do, every action I take, is to ensure your happiness and well-being. If someone like you, a simple blacksmith, wishes to stay by his side, I must make sure that you are worthy of it."
Muramasa let out a sigh, folding his arms. "I'm not a noble or a hero, and I certainly didn't come here to impress anyone. I'm just a blacksmith. If that's not enough for you, I don't know what to tell you."
Diablo watched him silently for a moment, his smile slowly returning. "Ah, but that's what I want to find out. Words are not enough. I need to see your determination. Your loyalty. Your willingness to sacrifice everything for her."
Before Muramasa could answer, Diablo raised a hand, and the space around him began to distort. Reality itself seemed to fragment as a translucent barrier surrounded them.
"What are you trying to do?" asked Muramasa, drawing a katana that he summoned with a flash of light.
"It's simple," Diablo replied, with an almost playful tone. "I'll test you. Prove to me that you are worthy to stay near Rimuru-sama. If you fail... well, let's just say you'll never go back to Tempest."
The energy around Diablo surged, creating an aura of crushing pressure that would have made anyone tremble. Muramasa, however, maintained his steady stance, his eyes narrowing as he assessed his opponent.
"Do you want me to fight you?" he asked coldly.
Diablo laughed softly. "Not exactly. My intention is not to destroy you, but to see how far you are willing to go to protect her."
Suddenly, the image of Rimuru appeared in front of them, a perfect projection of his figure. She seemed to be in danger, trapped in a dark barrier that slowly closed around her.
"Imagine if this were real," Diablo said, a malicious twinkle in his eye. "Imagine that Rimuru-sama was really in danger, that his life depended on you. What would you do, Muramasa? Would you be able to sacrifice your own existence to save it?"
Muramasa looked at the projection, his jaw tensing. Although he knew it wasn't real, the mere thought of Rimuru in danger ignited something inside him.
"Is this a joke to you?" he asked, his voice laden with suppressed anger.
"Quite the opposite," Diablo replied, taking a step toward him. "It's a test. Show that you deserve to be close to my goddess."
Muramasa closed his eyes for a moment, letting out a slow sigh before opening them again. When he spoke, his voice was firm and determined.
"If she were really in danger, I wouldn't hesitate to do whatever it took to save her. Even if it means my death."
Diablo watched him carefully, as if looking for some trace of lies in his words. Then, with a swift movement, he unleashed a series of magical attacks aimed at Muramasa, forcing him to react.
The battle that followed was not just a clash of strength, but a test of character. Diablo manipulated the space around him, teleporting and launching attacks from impossible angles, while Muramasa responded with impeccable precision, using his katana to deflect and counter every move.
Finally, after an intense exchange, Diablo stopped his attack. However, this time it was not with his usual playful smile. There was something different about his expression, a flash of seriousness that made the air around him tremble.
"So far, you have shown skill and will, Muramasa," Diablo said, his tone low and resonant. "But I haven't seen your limit yet. And that, blacksmith, is what matters to me."
The magical pressure emanating from Diablo increased exponentially, as if he wanted to crush Muramasa with his mere presence. The void around him began to ripple, and the dimension itself seemed to fracture under the weight of Diablo's unleashed power.
Muramasa stood firm, his breathing heavy but controlled. His golden eyes locked on Diablo, filled with unwavering determination.
"Is this all you have?" murmured Muramasa.
Diablo narrowed his eyes. "Don't underestimate what's to come, blacksmith. This will be your last chance to prove that you are worthy to serve alongside Rimuru-sama. If you don't make it... you will disappear here and now."
Muramasa took a deep breath. I knew what I had to do. I couldn't hesitate.
"So this is the level you expect..." he murmured, as he closed his eyes and a faint smile curled his lips. "I guess I don't have a choice."
When he opened them again, his gaze was different. There was calm, but also resolve. Muramasa stretched out a hand in the air, as if grasping something invisible.
Diablo, noticing what was about to happen, let his usual smile reappear. "Oh? Are you going to use that katana?"
Muramasa did not immediately respond. Instead, his lips began to move, uttering words that seemed to resonate with the very core of the space around him.
I'm not the invincible swordsman, Jūbei,
I'm not the one lauded as a master of espionage, Hanzō,
I'm not the renowned Abe-no-Seimei pitcher.
Why, of all people, was I, a blacksmith, summoned?
Because you are unable to foresee that, this is your defeat.
A light began to form in his hand, bright and blinding. Swords began to materialize around him, as well as a world of fire with countless swords, spears, shields, and different types of weapons from various legends was found in this world.
Once looking for the ultimate sword.
A steel sword that cuts no flesh, bones, or life.
What I am looking for is the cleansing of resentment.
The cutting of ties, destiny and luck.
That is, to free oneself from Karma.
The weapons of the Reality Marble began to disintegrate into motes of fire, forming a hypnotic dance in Muramasa's hand. A particular sword emerged from the center.
The Noble Phantasm had made its presence, the blade being surrounded by an intense and striking fire.
Diablo watched with genuine interest, but also with a pinch of caution. He knew the name of that katana, a blade that, as he had heard from Muramasa himself on that day at the beach, brought with it a terrible price.
Upon arrival there are countless tools.
Carved in a thousand swords, forming a pile of swords.
This is the place where all roads cross.
This is the place where all desires flow.
This is the place where all deaths await.
My whole life was for this one blow.
Muramasa moved forward, prepared to release the blow that would not only tear reality apart, but also end his own life.
However, before he could complete the attack, a hand landed firmly on his shoulder, stopping him.
"That's enough, blacksmith," Diablo said, his tone more serious than ever.
Muramasa stopped, his golden eyes showing a mixture of surprise and confusion. "Why are you stopping me? Wasn't this your test?"
Diablo stared at him, his expression unperturbed. "Yes, and you've already shown everything I needed to see. Your determination is genuine, and you are willing to sacrifice yourself for Rimuru-sama. But I will not allow you to lose your life for a trial."
With an elegant move, Diablo raised a hand, wrapping the sword in a black aura that dulled its brilliance. The Tsumukari Muramasa began to crumble, dissipating into the air as luminous dust.
Muramasa fell to his knees, panting as his body trembled from exertion and drained energy. "To stop ... just before the end... Was this all just a game for you?"
Diablo shook his head, his usual playful smile absent. "This is not a game, Muramasa. It is a test to make sure that Rimuru-sama is surrounded by people I can trust. And even if you're stubborn, I know now that you deserve it."
Muramasa looked at him wearily, but also with a spark of understanding. As frustrating as the ordeal had been, I knew that Diablo hadn't done it on a whim.
"You are a peculiar demon," Muramasa muttered as he tried to stand up.
"And you are an exceptional human," Diablo replied, extending a hand to help him up.
As Muramasa rejoined, Diablo took a step back, regaining his trademark smile. "Now that we've cleared this up, I think Rimuru-sama will be delighted to know that you've passed my test. Although..."
Diablo paused, his gaze becoming more penetrating. "If you ever try to betray Rimuru-sama, there will be no warnings or second chances. Are we clear?"
Muramasa let out a snort. "I have no intention of betraying her. You know that."
"Of course I do," Diablo replied with a more relaxed smile. "But it's always best to make it clear."
With a graceful move, Diablo opened a portal back to Tempest. Before entering, he looked at Muramasa one last time.
"Your determination is admirable, blacksmith. Now go and fulfill your purpose with Rimuru-sama."
Muramasa, still exhausted but determined, nodded. "I will."
As he walked toward the portal, Muramasa thought about how close he had come to death and how, for the first time in a long time, he felt that his life had a purpose beyond the swords he forged.
"Rimuru... It seems that I have tied myself to you more than I thought."
And with that, he returned to Tempest, with a new clarity in his heart.
❈•≫────≪•◦ ❈ ◦•≫────≪•❈
The sky was clear, and a gentle breeze blew through the fields of flowers that stretched beyond Tempest. Rimuru had decided that, after so much work and chaos, a day of rest was just what they needed.
"Come on, Muramasa! You can't spend your life working in the forge," Rimuru exclaimed as he placed a blanket on the ground, choosing a perfect spot under the shade of a large tree.
Muramasa, with his typical neutral expression, carried a small wooden box with tea and some snacks he had prepared. "I don't know why you insist on these things so much, but I guess I don't have a choice."
Ciel, who was walking beside him with her 'double body' ability, nodded. "It's important to diversify human experiences, Muramasa. A picnic can be a valuable opportunity to observe social interactions."
"Do you always have to analyze everything?" murmured Muramasa, placing the box next to the blanket as Rimuru began to pull food from his basket.
Meanwhile, in a not-so-distant place, a group of figures were crouching behind a bush, watching carefully.
"This is exciting!" Shion whispered, her eyes shining with excitement. "Do you think Rimuru-sama will eventually go to confession?"
"Rimuru-sama is too shy for something like that," Benimaru remarked, crossing his arms as he watched. "In addition, Ciel is also in the equation. This could get interesting."
"We can place bets," Shuna suggested, with a playful smile. "Who do you think will be the first to confess?"
Veldora, who was lying carefree as he flipped through a manga, looked up. "My money is in Muramasa. Even if he doesn't say it, he seems like the kind of man who acts before he speaks."
"Are you sure about that?" interjected Diablo, his enigmatic grin. "I think Rimuru-sama might surprise us all. Although of course... if anyone even considers rejecting Rimuru-sama, they will have to face me."
Shuna laughed softly. "I don't think anyone would reject Rimuru-sama."
Carrera, Ultima and Testarossa were also present, each with a different opinion.
"I say it will be Ciel," Carrera remarked, her tone slightly competitive. "It's cold, but direct. I'm sure he'll find a way to get ahead."
Ultima nodded quickly. "Yes! Ciel has that air of knowing what she wants."
"But Rimuru-sama has something special," Testarossa added, with a calm smile. "Something that can break any emotional barrier."
Back at the picnic, Rimuru held out a tray of food toward Muramasa. "Here, try this. I did it myself."
Muramasa took a bite, chewing slowly before nodding. "Okay."
"Just 'good'?" asked Rimuru, puffing out her cheeks in an expression of fake anger.
Ciel intervened, sipping some of the tea Muramasa had prepared. "Muramasa may not be expressive, but his body language indicates that he finds it satisfying."
Rimuru sighed, rolling her eyes. "Thank you, Ciel. Always so precise."
Muramasa, who rarely spoke of feelings, looked at Rimuru and Ciel as they argued in a light tone. That warm feeling in his chest grew every time he was with Rimuru and Ciel.
Unnoticed by them, the group of observers continued to murmur among themselves.
"Do you see that? Muramasa is smiling!" said Shion.
"That doesn't count as a full smile," Benimaru corrected, his eyes narrowing.
"But there's definitely something in his eyes," Shuna added, dreamily.
"This is better than any manga," Veldora commented, laughing to himself as he turned the page.
Back at the picnic, Rimuru leaned back on the blanket, staring at the clouds. "Isn't it great to have a quiet moment like this? No paperwork, no hassle, just the three of us."
Muramasa settled down, looking at the horizon. "I guess it's not too bad."
Ciel bowed her head, watching Muramasa closely. "It looks like you're enjoying this moment more than you'd admit."
Muramasa snorted. "Don't get excited. I'm only here because I was dragged away."
"And because you can't say no," Rimuru joked, giving him a light nudge on the arm.
For an instant, laughter and camaraderie filled the air. For observers, it was a clear moment: the relationship between the three was growing, slowly but surely.
Shuna stood up, smiling. "I think it's clear. All three are meant to be important to each other. It's just a matter of time."
"But we have not yet decided who will confess first," Shion insisted.
The day progressed slowly, and the atmosphere around the picnic became more relaxed. Laughter and occasional jokes filled the air as Muramasa, Rimuru, and Ciel enjoyed the tranquility they had longed for.
However, for Ciel, this moment was more than just a friendly meeting. She had been carefully analyzing her own feelings towards Muramasa ever since they started spending more time together. The certainty of what she felt had solidified, and now she knew that the time had come to act.
Meanwhile, Rimuru was lying on the blanket, looking at the clouds with a calm smile. Inside, however, she felt a slight nervousness. Ever since Muramasa had come into her life, something about her had changed, something she couldn't ignore.
From their hiding place, the group of observers noticed a change in the atmosphere.
"Something is about to happen," Testarossa murmured, squinting curiously.
"Look at Ciel!" Shion exclaimed, pointing towards the scene.
Ciel, with her typical stoic expression, moved slightly towards Muramasa, sitting closer to him. Although his face maintained its usual neutrality, a slight blush began to appear on his cheeks.
"Muramasa," Ciel said, her tone direct, but this time with a different, almost vulnerable undertone.
The blacksmith looked up at her, arching an eyebrow. "What's wrong, Ciel?"
Rimuru, who was about to say something, paused as she noticed the seriousness in Ciel's voice.
Ciel paused slightly before continuing, her red eyes fixed on Muramasa's. "I have come to a conclusion. Through our interactions, I have developed a deeper understanding of human emotions... and I've discovered something important."
Muramasa looked at her carefully, something in her tone telling him that this was not part of one of his usual analyses. "What did you discover?"
With a deep breath, Ciel continued, her face remaining expressionless, though the flush on her cheeks intensified. "I've fallen in love with you."
Silence fell over the picnic. Even the group of observers behind the bush gasped.
"Ciel?!" cried Rimuru, sitting up suddenly, her golden eyes wide open.
From her hiding place, Carrera let out a low laugh. "I knew it. Ciel is too direct to beat around the bush."
Ultima, jumping with excitement, whispered: "I won! I won!"
Meanwhile, Muramasa continued to look at Ciel, surprised, but his face remained serene. "Ciel..."
Before he could answer, Rimuru, feeling the situation slip out of hand, stepped forward.
"Wait a minute!" she said, staring at Ciel. "You can't just confess something like that and leave me out!"
Muramasa, who was just processing Ciel's confession, turned to Rimuru. "Rimuru?"
Rimuru clenched her fists, her cheeks completely red. "I'm in love with you too, Muramasa! I can't be left behind!"
Silence fell again, but this time, the tension was palpable. From the bush, Veldora couldn't contain his laughter, slapping the ground while the rest of the group looked at him reproachfully.
"This is better than any manga!" shouted Veldora, waving his hands.
"Shut up," Shion whispered, tugging at his arm. "You're going to ruin it!"
Back at the picnic, Muramasa stared at both women, noticing the intensity in their gazes. For the first time in a long time, he found himself speechless.
Finally, he sighed, closing his eyes for a moment before speaking. "I can't say I expected something like this... but I can't ignore what I feel either."
Ciel and Rimuru looked at him expectantly, while the blush on their cheeks increased.
"Both are important to me," Muramasa continued, his voice calm but firm. "And if they're willing to accept it, I want to be with both of them."
Rimuru blinked, surprised, while Ciel simply nodded, as if anticipated.
"It's enough for me," Ciel said, her tone serene, but with a slight tremor of emotion.
Rimuru, after a few seconds, smiled broadly. "I don't have a problem with that either!"
From their hiding place, the group of observers fell silent before Carrera broke the moment with a laugh.
"Ha! Ultima and I won the bet!" exclaimed Carrera, raising her hands in triumph.
"This was perfect!" shouted Ultima, jumping for joy.
Diablo, with an enigmatic smile, added, "This only strengthens the bond between Rimuru-sama and Muramasa. I'm satisfied."
Shion sighed, though she was also smiling. "This was more romantic than I expected."
Back at the picnic, Rimuru and Ciel were sitting on either side of Muramasa, smiling slightly as the blacksmith tried to process what had just happened.
"This is not what I expected for a quiet day," Muramasa murmured, though there was a faint smile on his lips.
"You will get used to it," Rimuru replied, leaning slightly against his shoulder.
"Yes," Ciel added, her expression stoically softening. "This is just the beginning."
And with that, the day continued, full of laughter and new promises, as the observers finally withdrew, satisfied with the spectacle they had just witnessed.
❈•≫────≪•◦ ❈ ◦•≫────≪•❈
Note: Well, the main objective of the story has been written. Perhaps one more chapter can be written to focus a little on the relationship between Muramasa, Rimuru and Ciel.
That's what I'm saying, but maybe I can't think of an idea. If you help with suggestions to make one more chapter where we would focus on the relationship of Muramasa, Rimuru and Ciel, I would be delighted.
Thank you for the good reception of the story, and return with Dragon (Editor), in helping me correct the grammatical errors.