The room was still silent after Rimuru's shocking statement.
The MC was still processing what he just heard. My skill is on the same level as Azathoth?! What the hell does that even mean?!
Before he could respond, another voice interrupted the moment.
"Rimuru, dear, you're scaring the poor boy."
A beautiful woman with silver hair and golden eyes appeared beside Rimuru's throne. She had an aura that felt both divine and unfathomably intelligent, like someone who understood everything yet didn't show it.
Rimuru grinned. "Oh, right. I should introduce you."
He gestured toward her. "This is my wife—Ciel."
The MC's brain crashed.
Rimuru has a wife?! Since when?! And it's…
His eyes widened as he realized something. Wait… Ciel…? As in, THE Ciel?!
Rimuru seemed to notice his shock and laughed. "Yeah, yeah, I know. You're wondering how my Unique Skill Great Sage ended up evolving into this beautiful woman, right?"
The MC nodded rapidly.
Ciel smiled gently. "Originally, I was Great Sage, an automatic support skill designed to aid Rimuru-sama. Over time, I evolved into the Ultimate Skill Raphael, Lord of Wisdom… and eventually, I became something beyond an Ultimate Skill."
She placed a hand on her chest. "I gained a soul… and became what you see before you now."
The MC could barely contain his awe. A skill… turned into a living being?! And she's a literal goddess now?!
Rimuru casually waved his hand. "Anyway, Ciel's the smartest being in the world, so if you have any complicated questions, she's your best bet."
Ciel smiled at the MC. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
The MC bowed respectfully. "It's an honor, Lady Ciel!"
Rimuru leaned back and continued. "So, back to my question. Do you want to become a True Demon Lord?"
The MC hesitated.
On one hand, becoming a True Demon Lord would grant him immense power.
But… he didn't want to be a demon again.
He frowned. "Lord Rimuru, I want to become stronger… but I also want to keep my skills. Are there any other evolution paths besides the True Demon Lord?"
Ciel closed her eyes for a moment, processing data at an inhuman speed.
Then, she opened them and answered.
"There is one alternative. The True Dragon Path."
The MC stiffened.
"True… Dragon? Huh."
Rimuru nodded. "Yep. But there's a catch."
Ciel continued. "You currently do not meet the requirements to evolve into a True Dragon. Your body and soul are not yet strong enough to withstand the transformation."
The MC clenched his fists. So I'm not ready yet…
Rimuru smirked. "Well, you're still young. You've got time to grow."
Ciel nodded. "For now, I suggest you continue traveling and fighting strong opponents. If you truly wish to walk the True Dragon Path, you must surpass your current limits."
The MC took a deep breath and nodded. "I understand. Then, I'll keep growing until I can evolve properly!"
Rimuru grinned. "That's the spirit! Now then, since you're in Tempest, why not stick around for a while? Maybe I'll even help you with your skills."
The MC smiled.
He had no idea what the future held, but one thing was certain—
His journey was far from over.