The Monster Army Formation
From scattered wanderers to a unified nation, the birth of the Monster Army begins.
The Monster Army Formation marks a pivotal shift in Rimuru Tempest's journey from a solitary slime to the founder of a sovereign nation. This arc follows the immediate aftermath of the unification with the Jura Forest, as Rimuru actively recruits and organizes a diverse coalition of powerful monsters under his banner. Rather than a traditional military conquest, this period focuses on diplomacy, trust-building, and strategic integration. It establishes the foundational structure of what will become the Jura Tempest Federation, transforming a loose alliance into a cohesive political entity capable of challenging established human kingdoms.
- Key Allies
- Shion, Benimaru, Veldora Tempest
Lore & Background
This era is defined by Rimuru's unique ability to see potential in outcasts and former enemies. Following his victory over the Orc Lord army and the subsequent integration of the Jura Forest inhabitants, Rimuru realizes that mere survival is insufficient; a structured society is needed to protect them from human persecution. He begins systematically inviting powerful entities like the Ogre Shion and the Ogre Benimaru to join his cause, offering them not just safety, but purpose. The formation of the army is less about drilling soldiers and more about forging a culture. Note that Rimuru's 'Predator' skill does not allow him to share absorbed abilities with allies—that is a function of 'Food Chain', which is acquired later. This period lays the groundwork for the complex racial diversity that characterizes Tempest, proving that monsters and humans can coexist under a single, benevolent leadership.
In Their Own Story
The morning mist clung to the dense canopy of Jura Forest as Rimuru stood before a gathered crowd of ogres, goblins, and wolves. The air hummed with anticipation, a mix of fear and hope. Shion, her iron skin gleaming faintly in the dappled light, stepped forward beside him. 'We are no longer just survivors,' she declared, her voice carrying over the rustling leaves. Rimuru nodded, his gelatinous form shifting with a calm confidence that belied his simple appearance. 'Today, we build something new. A place where strength is used to protect, not destroy.' As the cheers of the monsters rose, the foundation of a nation was laid in the dirt and leaf litter.
Reader's Guide
The arc begins with Rimuru seeking to formalize the loose alliance formed after the Orc Lord incident. Recognizing that scattered groups are vulnerable to human armies, he decides to build a centralized force. Key turning points include the recruitment of Shion as his vanguard commander and Benimaru as the leader of the goblin army. A significant moment occurs when Rimuru negotiates with Guy Crimson, transforming a potential conflict into a strategic alliance that brings immense power under Tempest's fold. This arc advances Rimuru's growth by forcing him to transition from a reactive survivor to an active statesman and general. It shifts the political landscape of the world by introducing a new power bloc that defies traditional racial hierarchies, setting the stage for future conflicts with human kingdoms and other demon lords.
Did You Know?
- The 'Monster Army' initially consisted largely of former enemies or outcasts who were given a second chance under Rimuru's leadership.
- Benimaru's integration marked the first time ogres were systematically organized into a disciplined military unit within the series.
- Rimuru's ability to name his subordinates was crucial in this arc, as it granted them intelligence and loyalty, solidifying their bond.
- Tempest Village was already established before the Monster Army Formation arc; the army's formation strengthened an existing settlement rather than creating it.