Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken (LN)

Payday in Tempest

The Opening festival had come to an end and the prosperous days continued. As part of it, Rigurdo was busy throughout the day. Although he was occupied with lots of work, these were all fulfilling and joyful days.

And all of this was thanks to Rigurdos master.

The glorious reward from his masterDemon Lord Rimuru.

Thinking back a few years time, Rigurdo was the elder of the original goblin tribe. They didnt have names, and were also confronted with the disappearance of the Jura Forests guardian.

The age of unrest commenced.

We were just so lucky back then.

Rigurdo couldnt forget it, deeply grateful in his heart. Had his Goblin underlings, under the dire circumstances accidentally done something to Rimuru-sama If that had been the case, Rigurdo and his tribe would not be here today.

Having said that, Rimuru at the time already gave off immeasurable magicules, which dispelled any thoughts they had of attempting an attack on him. Rigurdo and his men werent planning on doing anything, and now knowing the outcome of it all, that was what saved them.

After all, with Rimuru-samas menacing display, we were able to clear out the direwolf threat. That smooth and shining fluid body that shouts aesthetic. Upon laying eyes on him in action, its simply stupid to even think about defying him. I bet whoever he may have encountered would also have expressed loyalty to him.

Rigurdo nodded to himself as he recalled the past. There exist such surprising outcomes in life. Rigurdo had made a wise choice. However, most people in this world wouldnt have made the right choice. If Rimuru had shown up in a different place, it might just have ended up in tragedy. For instance, what if he encountered human adventurers instead? Those who are incapable of seeing the nature of monsters would probably make the judgement entirely based on the appearance of things. You could expect the encounter to turn violent within a matter of seconds. In other words, Rimurus first encounter with Rigurdo was, in a sense, a blessing to both parties.

Afterwards, Rimuru accepted Rigurdos request and became their leaderleading not only the goblins, but the ogres, orcs, lizardmen and forest spirits too. Eventually settling down within the forest and becoming the demon lord to command all races.

Rigurdo, whod been reminiscing about the past in the midst of a busy day, was called back to reality.

Oh-oh, there you are. Rigurdo-dono, Ive been looking for you for some time now.

Myourmiles-dono? Is there a problem?

Well, its not exactly a problem

Myourmiles stopped for a moment.

He, a human, had been entrusted by Rimuru with the duty of managing the Finance Department of Tempest State. He had become an irreplaceable member of the country, who also worked very diligently like Rigurdo.

He responded to Myourmiles with a smile. Thanks to Myourmiles, Rigurdo was able to resolve his own concerns. He was burdened by self-doubts regarding what he and the rest of Rimuru-samas subordinates meant to hima demon lord with immense power. Rigurdo sighed at his lack of strength, while being subjected to such a powerful existence.

Among Rimurus subordinates, there were many majin who were known for their combat abilities. For instance, the members of Kurenai. 11 These were strong individuals, far more powerful than Rigurdo, who didnt put shame on the name of Rimuru-samas subordinates.

Apart from them, there were the orcs led by Geld. They were not only pivotal for their specialized role in the citys development, but also tasked with defending and guarding it.

And then, we had Diablo. That Demon was extremely unusual. There was no doubt that he bears immeasurable strength. It gave Rigurdo a cold shiver simply imagining having to fight him as a foe. His loyalty towards Rimuru was unquestionable, yet in reality, there were many who feared Diablo. He was on good terms with Ranga, and also agreed to Rigurdos request with a smile But even with that, anyone would subconsciously be scared in the face of an obviously higher existence compared to oneself.

And so it bore the seed of Rigurdos concern.

Given that at the moment, there were many powerful majins who had joined under Rimurus reign, he worried about what he could contribute as one of them. Despite such a thought, Rigurdos strength was easily above Rank A. Its not that he was weak, it was simply the others outclassing him to an unreasonable degree. Or in other words, Rigurdo was still a rather strong member within Tempest State. But Rigurdo did not realize that and earnestly worked hard everyday in order to competently fulfill the role of Goblin King entrusted to him by Rimuru.

Myourmiless presence was like a saving grace to Rigurdos feelings of insecurity. The man who had no concern for strength and even crossed the racial boundary between human and monster. Myourmiles, the head of the Finance DepartmentMinister of Finance.

So thats the way its been all along, then theres nothing to be worried about. Rimuru-sama has no prerequisite for our strength, moreover, our master is a majestic demon lord! This just cant do it, I am still too close-minded and caused myself such worries. These are just unnecessary concerns. It is simply an instinct for monsters to judge one another based on strength.

Rigurdo made a wry laugh as he came to that conclusion, quickly abandoning his worries and refocusing on the towns operations. Rigurdo was grateful towards Myourmiles in his heart for that very reason.

His lack of ability compared to Myourmiles still passed through his head occasionally, though he has long since treated him more like a friend. That was what gave Rigurdos tone a sense of intimacy when talking to Myourmiles.

Well, what seems to be the issue?

Ay, I feel as though myself alone wont think up an answer. Rimuru-samas thrusted another hard task down my throat again.

Myourmiles put on an indignant attitude while complaining, albeit unable to conceal his joy. Rigurdo smiled upon hearing this. It was precisely the hard tasks he complained about that were proof of the trust Rimuru had in him. Rimuru would never hand an impossible task to his subordinates, this thus symbolized the expectations Rimuru had placed upon Myourmiles.

Right now Im also busy learning about how the separation of powers works. What comes first now is legislation. Rimuru-sama has ordered me to draft our nations constitution.

Another over-the-top idea, hes always the same

Even though Rimuru acted as the king of the country, he seemed to have no intention of running it. Since if he had participated in politics, all of his free time wouldve been gone. Yet the authority lay not among the citizens, but with the leader, Rimuru.

Tempest Stateor Jura Tempest Federationwas based on an alliance between multiple races. People of different personalities and ideologies all gathering under Rimurus protection is what made Tempest State a united nation. Bottom line being, if Rimuru was not around, there would be no nation to begin with.

Rigurdo had nothing to say against Rimuru holding the authority. As such, with hidden thoughts in his heart, he was handed complete political authority.

Based on the current condition, we need to assemble key administration departments and establish a legislation department consisting of a thousand men alongside a judicial department to enforce the laws. That was his order.

Needless to say, it was an order given after diplomatic discussions with the western states. But thankfully, Rimuru didnt just let go of all of his responsibilities, he still gave his opinions on the drafts

This was a nasty can of worms he had tossed to Rigurdo, who undaunted was still happy to follow through with it.

Hahaha, thats precisely my intent. So Myourmiles-dono, what type of thing are we talking here?

Rigurdo, such a nice guy. Even when he was having a hard time himself, he still wouldnt turn down his friend. Myourmiles was able to see through Rigurdos personality within the short time he had spent with him, which is why his following request was tinged with remorse.

Ya Im truly sorry for interrupting your busy schedule. I wanted to resolve it myself, but I do want to hear your opinion about this certain thing before making any decision. Also, this may require the consensus from every department.

Oh? What do you mean?

Hmm, as a matter of fact

Trying his best not to interrupt the busy Rigurdo

Myourmiles thought to himself but regarding Rimurus order this time, it was very hard to make the decision himself. The subject at handConstruction of a salary system.

Sa-lary?

Yes. To quote Rimuru-sama, I want to express gratitude towards everyone working in our country.

I see. We are already satisfied with basic fulfillments in food, clothes and residence. On top of that, Rimuru-sama has granted us meaningful work. Well probably get struck by lightning if we ask for anything more. However, it would seem that humans have a different view on the subject.

Rimuru, who Rigurdo respected and loved, was said to once have been human. For that reason, he granted them all rewards, due to his values that differed from those of monsters. Rigurdo nodded in agreement thinking so. Myourmiles agreed to that as well and added:

I personally also understand Rimuru-samas intent. People tend to work extra hard upon receiving rewards for their work.

Hmm, I was thinking to shut the greedy ones up with my pair of fists But I cant really get in the way of Rimuru-samas idea. Then, how much would the appropriate salary be as a reward hmm, this sure is a difficult question.

Honestly, we are rather sparing in finance right now. We can try to give out weekly funds as salary, but in the end, Im skeptical about how much of the funds everyone could spend in the first place

Upon hearing Myourmiless words, Rigurdo finally realized how profound the issue really was. Handing out a salary was a trivial task, yet to the monsters who had always practiced might makes right, the concept of monetary value was something wholly unfamiliar. Whenever they desired something, they could simply take it with brute force. That had been their way of life. Another factor was that monsters arent as careful with and good at managing their money, as opposed to scheming merchants. At most a handful of them could even count their cash to begin with. At the time it was thanks to Rimurus instructions that the population of people educated in those fields had increased.

Yet for the time being, most monsters were still incapable of reading and writing. Distributing a salary to them would have been an ineffectual endeavour.

If they are unable to utilize their salary, there would be no point in rewarding them.

Thats precisely the issue. Besides, if they simply save up their money without ever spending it, effectively taking it out of circulation, that may lead to stagnation in the economy. I would want to avoid that from happening.

Regardless of the good intentions they had when setting up the system, it would have no value if it only hindered the progress of the nation That Myourmiles had such concerns proved his worth as a prescient businessman.

Rigurdo was able to understand Myourmiless views, even on this complex subject. In fact, most people would likely save the salary out of appreciation. The wiser ones would consider what to do with the money. Realistically, most monsters were already satisfied with their current situation and wouldnt know what else to buy. Besides, to them something given by Rimuru was already treasured beyond any sum of money. It would likely be more important to change their conceptions of things before we deliver the first paycheck.

Rigurdo was deep in thought.

Hmm, this sure is a difficult question Rigurdo whispered to himself. It was also no easy job to consider the amount of payment for respective work loads, but before that, the educational issue must be resolved first.

Rigurdo considered himself a fast-thinker, yet faced with Myourmiless questions, his brain was running at full capacity. It would also be preposterous to go discuss the matter with Rimuru.

This is really jarring

Rigurdo and Myourmiles looked at each other awkwardly and fell silent.

Kufufufufu, this sounds like an interesting topic.

Diablo showed up out of nowhere, gave both a bright smile and inserted himself into their discussion.

***

That smile had immediately made Rigurdo suspicious.

Unlike Benimaru, who was straightforward with his thoughts and would spit out whatever he thought, Diablo was very different. He was always planning something and cunningly twisted situations in his favor. This was especially the case when it concerned his own interests. If Diablo showed that level of interest, he was definitely scheming something.

This look, he must have some devious idea on his mind! Diablos got a good head. I wont give him a chance to trick me, I must stay focused!

Rigurdo steeled his resolve and turned to face Diablo.

Well if it isnt Diablo-dono? I thought you were away enjoying your holiday?

Indeed, Ive been pursuing chess-pieces that are going to work in my place.

Oh. How did that go? Myourmiles asked, and Diablo smoothly answered with a calm expression: They, of course, accepted the offer in a heartbeat.

This means I can focus entirely on being Rimuru-samas secretary nowhis expression said it all.

Although the part of in a heart-beat was questionable, Diablo definitely found some subordinates.

Thats great. Then, since you have overheard our conversation, Diablo-dono, whats your opinion?

Rigurdo delivered the line cautiously. He was determined to not be deceived. Handling Diablo wasnt easy for him though, and the slightest misstep would land him in the palm of Diablos hand. Still, Diablo also showed much respect towards Rigurdosolely because both of them served the same master, Rimuru.

If Rimuru ever disappears, Diablo would likely lose interest in this nation, right? But if it really comes down to that, the country would likely collapse on its own

Kufufufufu. This salary needs not to be in cash, does it?

Hmm?

Hmm. Ive considered that point. However, even if we decide to pay in goods, it is time-consuming to learn everyone's preference. Issuing objects of no significance to the recipient would be meaningless. But it would also be unrealistic to hear everyones demands

Paying in goods removes the concern regarding them hoarding money, but this would be too costly. After all, every citizen already has a minimum welfare.

Myourmiles thusly dismissed the proposal as being unfeasible.

However, Diablos smile remained.

No, no. Youve got the wrong idea. Think about it, havent we already got a model? Right now, the canteen is using a point-system for ordering, right? What if we utilize the point-system again for this?

He made his proposal, staring at the two.

Speaking of points, do you mean the effort point that grants you access to the special menu?

If I recall, it is an accumulative point-system to represent the work one does. Actually I see! Its only a stamp issued by the department head, so it has nothing to do with money. Then theres no need to consider the stashing of cash nor do we need to investigate their personal preference. Hmm, this might be a good plan!

Before Rigurdo could understand, Myourmiles began to show interest in the proposal and excitedly threw out one idea after another. Diablo was happily smiling as he listened.

Oya, have I been too cautious around Diablo-dono? I thought he wasnt interested in anything other than Rimuru-sama. It would seem hes also willing to lend a helping hand to others. I really shouldnt have judged others with prejudice.

Rigurdo reflected on himselfa really easily manipulated man.

And so Rigurdo was tossed aside while Myourmiles and Diablo entered deeper into discussion.

But the question being, how can we effectively utilize the point-system?

Hmm. Lets not limit the available rewards to the special food menu, shall we?

Thats most true. After all, there are monsters who are not particularly interested in food. Under Rimuru-samas influence, there are also quite a few who have developed a sweet tooth. We should also consider those who dont require food at all.

Thats most likely a blind-spot. Just as Diablo-dono said, there are ones uninterested in food. If we are to effectively apply the point-system, we should also compensate these members. What an amazing plan!

No, no, its really nothing. Rather, what should we prepare for the point exchange? That would be an important question, right?

Indeed, then what should we do

Rigurdo gradually caught up listening to their conversation. He was also amazed at Diablos clever suggestion.

Bravo Diablo-dono. No wonder he has the wisdom to fill the role of Rimurus secretary. Aiya, its my own short-comings that led me to question his intent. Ive got to improve on how I read othersRigurdo expressed his admiration.

Then he began to weigh in on the discussion himself.

Hmm, I believe some may be amused by Kurobee-donos weapons and Shuna-samas newly produced clothes.

Yeah, thats for sure. If we are to sell the products to the public, how about we consider applying point based priority for purchases.

I see. In that sense, Gobtas fishing rod may be a surprisingly popular item. After all, its hand-made by Rimuru-sama. Then let Dold-dono make some similar gadgets with his crew.

That sounds great, Ive also fallen in love with the joy of fishing and wanted one.

Hahaha, then I should get you a test rod when the time comes.

No, no, we should sell that as well. Please leave the matter to me.

Thats more than I could wish for. In that way, theres one more item on the list of specialties offered by our country.

Hahaha, Whaha; Rigurdo and Myourmiles gleefully exchanged their ideas. The two seemed highly motivated now that they seemingly found a solution to the headaching question. Diablos smile didnt leave his face while observing the two. And suddenly, out of nowhere

The right to serve Rimuru-sama for a day, how about it?

Like a drop of poison, he nonchalantly slipped his opinion into their conversation.

Ha?

Eh?

Rigurdo couldnt utter a word while Myourmiles was so shocked that he suspected he had misheard Diablo. Diablo on the other hand calmly carried on with an explanation as if nothing happened.

No, its really not that big a deal. Similar to how Rimuru-sama wishes to appreciate us, wed also like to be grateful to Rimuru-sama, wouldnt we?

O-of course thats the case

I-I also feel deeply grateful for being trusted and employed by Rimuru-sama

Isnt that right? Thats why we should allow everyone to compete fairly for the opportunity to express their heartfelt gratitude. But thats just my opinion.

IndeedDiablo exclaimed confidently. Myourmiles expression was frozen and Rigurdo couldnt begin to agree.

No, but shouldnt Rimuru-sama consent to this as well?

Of course! Thats without saying and only natural. However, if someone is to occupy Rimuru-samas time, there should only be one person for a day per month to be given such an honor. In this way, the rarity of this reward will go up with fiercer competition. These high-point rewards will surely ignite everyone's motivation.

Hmm, Rigurdo whispered to himself. There was merit to Diablos suggestion. However, there were still some unacceptable points.

H-howeverto have Rimuru-sama greet us would be most disrespectful. And would it really be a reward if we are to serve Rimuru-sama?

Rigurdo expressed his doubts. Diablo, however, sighed in response.

Rigurdo-dono, please think it over. To serve Rimuruwouldnt that imply spending a day with him where its just the two of you?

EH, HMMM?

In other words, you get to see operas together, serve drinks to Rimuru-sama while he reads, dine together, and spend the day together!

NA-NANI!?

We get to serve Rimuru-sama while simultaneously accepting Rimuru-samas gratitude. How about it, isnt it a wonderful idea?

The demon conveyed his explanation smoothly. Rigurdo reached a sudden realizationforced to being enlightened.

It was Rigurdos naivety that led to his failure.

Speaking of which, Myourmiles pondered:

I already get to grab a drink and meal with Rimuru-sama quite often If this were to go public, Id probably get envied. Hmm, so Ill just stay silent for now!

A smart decision. A capable man is indeed different from others.

He didnt let anything slip before Diablo.

Then, Myourmiles began to assemble a draft regarding that matter and later submitted it to Rimuru.

***

Rimuru had been organizing documents in his room when Myourmiles handed him the files regarding the salary system. Diablo stood next to Rimuru and helped organize the papers. He had resumed his role of No.2 Secretary as usual after his vacation ended a few days ago.

Wow, has it been completed, Myourmiles?

Yes, we were able to finalize our proposal after putting much thought into it. As it states, we will not pay in cash but rather extended the more ideal point-system. But these are just my opinions.

Myourmiles reported as such. Rimuru nodded happily in response. From that bright expression, one can see the remorse Rimuru had felt over not properly compensating his subordinates for all their work. Rimuru looked through the document and frowned upon seeing the top reward.

Hmm? Wh-what is this the right to serve me?

Of course there would be doubts regarding it, Myourmiles thought to himself.

About the option of the right to serve Rimuru-sama, its in accordance to Rimuru-samas faith in everyone in the nation. I came up with it, believing that everyone working in this country would be most grateful towards Rimuru-sama.

Myourmiles had prepared his answers before the presentation. It wouldnt really be an issue if that one reward was taken out, therefore he was calm without a hint of panic. Diablo watched the entire thing while a small smile crept across his face.

As I recall, it was a request from Rigurdo-dono, right?

Heh, Rigurdo? That guy is way too serious. Theres really no need to worry about this.

Rimuru forced a smile upon hearing Diablos words. It can be seen that Rimuru put much trust in Rigurdo. If he was told that it was Diablo who came up with the proposal, Rimuru would probably have been more careful and discussed about it. But, hearing that it was what Rigurdo thought, Rimuru was easily convinced without paying it a second thought. Yet that was precisely Diablos goal.

Kufufufufu, all according to my grand scheme 12 ! This privilege was the most vital from the start. It will probably get scrapped in no time, so Ill show you all whos number one when everyone else is just pretending to observe.

Diablo snickered while revelling in his plot. It was precisely because only Diablo would do something like this that Rigurdo was wary of him. It was something that would eventually happen even without the person noticing.

Hmm, however, its probably not wise to use all the points they earned through hard work on me

Rimuru still had some objections, so Myourmiles responded:

Indeed, its exactly as you say. However, everyone whos discussed about the proposal had nothing but praise to say about it. Whats more, if someone decides to exchange their points for it even though the price is high, it would show how much gratitude they feel towards Rimuru-sama. If someone makes that choice, its a completely voluntary action. So I think we should wait and see how everyone reacts to it first.

Hmm, is that so? It certainly seems like it with everything you just said. Well I suppose its fine, since they wont be able to collect that many points again in a short time span. Lets wait and see.

Then would you agree to the proposal?

Rimuru gave up thinking and decided to approve the proposal. And so it gained Rimurus approval.

Diablo struck a victory pose in secret, no one noticed.

***

Then, two months later

Aiyi, Rigurdo. Its nice of you to have proposed the right to serve me, but we should probably cancel it.

Rimuru summoned Rigurdo to tell him this.

Ha, Eh? What do you mean?

Somehow the proponent turned from Diablo to himself. Rigurdo had many doubts, but he hid them for the time and asked Rimuru the reasons behind it.

As a matter of fact, its Diablo who first obtained the right. And its him this month again. It would seem that he has been collecting points behind my back. If we carry on, I feel that every privilege will end up in his pocket, Rimuru answered.

Ive been PLAYED like a DAMN FIDDLE!? So its true, I should never have believed that demon!

Feeling like the sky was falling down, Rigurdo realized that he had been completely duped by Diablo. It would seem that Diablo had even considered the abolishment of the right in his plan. In other words, once the situation devolved into this, that right would be placed on a pedestal and regarded as a dream-privilege, further adding to its value.

The impossibility in obtaining the right to serve Rimuru-samaand the only one who was allowed to exercise the right had been Diablo, and him alone.

His plan was executed flawlessly.

Wuuu, Im still too nave. It all started with that damn smile; I had already seen through his cunning nature yet still lost to his tricks.

Such regrets hardly mattered at that point. In the end, as Rigurdo anticipated, the right to serve Rimuru-sama became a fantasy. What remained were many monsters envy and complaints.

As well as Rigurdos regret.

However, this did not happen for nothing.

Another reward-based point-system was adopted regarding the salary problem in Tempest.

A more complete and detailed structure was built.

That was the inside story of the salary issue during Tempests early independence, when the kingdom still lacked a complete national system.

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