The grand council chamber in the central administrative building felt heavier than usual. Crystal chandeliers cast soft light across the polished marble floors, and the long oak tables formed a wide circle. Rimuru sat at the head, his posture calm yet alert. The air carried the faint scent of fresh tea prepared by Shuna, but the mood was tense. Envoys from the Western Nations sat opposite, their faces a mix of caution and calculation. Count Galt from Lubelius leaned forward, fingers steepled. The Dwarven merchant delegate tapped the table lightly, while other representatives shifted in their seats.
Diablo stood at Rimuru's right, his black butler uniform immaculate, his crimson eyes sharp. Testarossa, Ultima, and Carrera stood behind him in perfect formation, their presence a quiet reminder of new power. Veldora sat beside Rimuru, his scarred face composed. Benimaru and Souei watched from the side, ready.
Rimuru spoke first, his voice steady and clear. "We have gathered to discuss the Western Council invitation. Tempest seeks peace and mutual benefit. Our new technology and training methods are for protection and shared progress. The Primordial demons serve with absolute loyalty. Their power is a shield, not a threat."
Count Galt's eyes narrowed slightly. "Your growth is impressive. The towers that reach the sky, the machines that connect distant lands, the virtual worlds that let one step inside games… these things have reached our ears. Yet some fear this power may upset the balance. The Holy Empire of Lubelius watches closely."
The Dwarven merchant leaned in. "Trade would benefit from your fiber network. But we need assurances. What guarantees do we have that your strength will not turn against us?"
Diablo's voice remained smooth and respectful. "The balance is already shifting toward harmony. Our innovations are open for fair sharing. The VR technology allows safe training and exploration. It can be used for diplomacy, letting leaders experience each other's worlds without leaving their homes."
Ultima stepped forward with a playful smile. "We are here to help, not to threaten. My chaos can be useful when directed at the right enemies."
Testarossa's elegant tone followed. "Our strength is yours to command. We will stand as guardians of the peace you seek."
Carrera bowed her head slightly. "We offer our knowledge and power without reservation."
Gobta, standing near the door, stepped forward with a bright grin. "My Super Kamehameha and the new friends' beams reached the stars, but they caused no harm. We train to protect, not to destroy. The council should see that Tempest wants friends, not enemies."
The room fell into thoughtful silence. Count Galt's expression softened a fraction. "Your words carry sincerity. The demonstration of power without aggression is… convincing. We will carry this message back. Yet the council requires more. A joint demonstration, perhaps. Show us your VR technology and the new forms in a controlled setting."
Rimuru nodded. "We agree. Let us arrange a private session. The VR rooms can let you experience our world safely. The Super forms and Star Dust Breaker are tools of protection. You will see they serve peace."
Veldora spoke with measured warmth, relaying Takumi's words. "Takumi says the technology honors both worlds. The games and virtual training teach strategy and teamwork. The beams that reached space show strength used wisely. We invite you to see it for yourselves."
The envoys exchanged glances. The Dwarven merchant's eyes gleamed with interest. "We accept. A demonstration would ease many concerns."
As the meeting drew to a close, Milim entered the chamber with light steps. "The meeting is over? Good! I want to show everyone the new VR room. We can fight together in Crimson Desert and see how strong the Primordial demons really are!"
Ramiris floated in behind her. "The virtual desert feels so real. The sand is warm under your feet, and the wind carries the scent of adventure. Come, let us try a team battle!"
Shuna offered fresh tea to the departing guests with a gentle smile. "Safe travels. We look forward to the next gathering."
Benimaru escorted the envoys out with sharp vigilance. "The network will keep you informed. No shadow will go unnoticed."
The chamber slowly emptied. Milim and Ramiris pulled the Primordial demons toward the VR rooms, their laughter filling the hall. Shuna prepared a quiet meal for the remaining group, her gentle presence bringing warmth. Gobta talked excitedly with Carrera about the next training session.
Rimuru sat back, reflecting on the day. The political threads were tightening, yet the bonds within Tempest grew stronger with every shared moment. The new technology, the Super forms, and the Primordial demons had become part of a larger tapestry of hope.
The evening light from the towers cast a gentle glow over the federation. Tempest's story continued, moving forward with steady steps toward the council and whatever lay beyond.