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Chapter 4 - Chapter 4: The Digital Bloom

A few days had passed since the magic smartphones first appeared in Tempest. Word spread quickly through the federation, and now the capital streets hummed with new energy. In the central market square, crowds gathered under the warm afternoon sun. Goblin merchants, orc traders, and lizardmen visitors moved between stalls, but many paused to check their devices. The magical 5G network, powered by Veldora's infinite energy, worked with lightning speed. Messages arrived in an instant. Maps updated without delay. Videos played smoothly, never freezing even when dozens of people streamed at once.

A group of young goblins sat together on stone benches, eyes fixed on their screens. One held his phone high so his friends could watch. Bright anime scenes unfolded in crisp detail: colorful heroes battling dark forces, their voices clear and lively. Laughter rose from the group as a funny moment played. "This story is amazing!" one goblin exclaimed. "The hero's power-up feels just like our training drills, but with more flair."

Nearby, an orc merchant leaned against his cart, reading a digital manga. Pages turned with a simple tap. His face showed quiet delight as the plot twisted. Around him, other citizens did the same. Some stood in small circles, sharing favorite panels. Others walked while listening to anime soundtracks through earpieces created by the same technology. The square felt alive with shared excitement. No one needed to wait for books or theaters anymore. Knowledge and entertainment flowed freely to everyone.

Rigurd, the wise goblin leader, walked through the crowd with steady steps. He carried his own smartphone, using it to send quick notes to town officials. "This device has made my work lighter," he said to a passing aide. "Reports arrive instantly. We can respond to any issue before it grows. Lord Rimuru's wisdom shines again." His voice held quiet pride. The network helped him coordinate food supplies and guard shifts with ease.

Not far away, Gobta and a few members of his squad gathered near a fountain. They had just finished training and now relaxed with their new phones. Gobta grinned widely as he streamed an action anime. "Boss, this is the best thing ever! Look at that special move—it reminds me of Sir Benimaru's flames!" His friends cheered when the hero won a tough fight. The fast connection let them switch between episodes without pause. For the first time, even simple soldiers enjoyed stories from another world right in their hands.

Veldora Tempest moved through the lively square in his human form. His blonde hair caught the light, and his brown outfit blended well with the bustling scene. He observed everything with calm, mature eyes. Inside his mind, Takumi spoke with friendly warmth.

"Yo, bro, look at this turnout. The phones are everywhere. The network speed is perfect—no lag, even with so many users. I never imagined it would catch on this fast."

Veldora allowed a small, thoughtful smile. His voice remained private between them. "The surge in popularity is most satisfying. It is like the release of a long-awaited isekai season that exceeds all expectations. See how the people bond over these tales? Manga and anime have become bridges between hearts. Yet beneath the joy lies true strength. Our federation grows more united each day."

They paused near a shaded pavilion where Shuna and Shion reviewed content together. Shuna's gentle hands scrolled through a library of stories. "The cultural selections are wonderful," she said softly. "I have added some of our own legends to the system. The AI voice adapts them beautifully for every listener." Shion nodded with enthusiasm. "And the cooking tutorials! I can learn new recipes while walking. This will improve every meal in the capital."

Benimaru joined them soon after. His sharp gaze scanned the crowd, but his expression softened with approval. "The military side benefits greatly too. Instant maps and live updates mean we can track movements across the federation without delay. If any trouble arises from the west, we will know at once."

At that moment, a small alert appeared on several phones at once. The anime-girl AI voice spoke in a calm, cheerful tone. "Notice for all users: Unusual data flow detected near the western border. Would you like more details?" The message came from the central server Takumi had created. It carried knowledge from his old world and adapted it to Tempest's needs.

Veldora's eyes sharpened with interest. He and Takumi exchanged a quick thought. The network had already begun its silent work. Information about the Shadow Broker's hidden movements flowed into secure channels. No one outside their circle noticed yet, but the fast connection turned simple phones into tools of quiet protection.

Takumi felt a spark of pride. "See, bro? We built more than games and stories. This network watches over the federation while everyone enjoys themselves. The political intrigue from the council will face real challenges now."

Veldora nodded once, his mature voice carrying a touch of humor only Takumi heard. "A splendid plot development. The enemies plot in shadows, yet we have filled our world with light and speed. The otaku spirit truly elevates all things."

Rimuru appeared at the edge of the square, drawn by the lively atmosphere. His long silver-blue hair moved gently in the breeze, and his deep golden eyes reflected quiet satisfaction. He watched the crowds with a warm smile. Citizens greeted him cheerfully, many still holding their phones. One child ran up to show an anime scene, and Rimuru laughed softly at the shared joy.

"This is exactly what I hoped for," he said to Veldora as they met. "The people are happier and stronger. We must thank Takumi again for his vision."

The afternoon continued in peaceful activity. Merchants closed better trades through instant messages. Scholars discussed ancient texts now available to all. Even travelers from distant lands paused to join the fun, amazed at the lightning-fast network that worked everywhere in Tempest.

Far to the west, the Shadow Broker's agents would soon learn that their secrets traveled less freely than before. But in the capital, the focus remained on simple pleasures—reading the next manga chapter, watching the latest anime episode, or sharing a funny moment with friends. The digital bloom had taken root, and its flowers spread warmth and unity across the land.

Veldora and Takumi continued their walk, content to observe. The bond between them deepened with every new discovery. Together they had helped create something lasting, a chapter of progress written not only with power, but with care and creativity.

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