Limloo, The Wise Slime Sage

Augustus regarded Limloo thoughtfully. "If you're as intelligent as you seem, I'll need you to assist me in analyzing the state of the territory. I'll rely on your wisdom to help plan our next steps."

"As you command, my Lord," Limloo replied, his telepathic voice steady. "Allow me to observe and assess the village. I will provide a full report momentarily."

The wise slime turned, his gelatinous body gliding with surprising precision toward the other slimes near the Slime Lake.

Augustus watched in silence, curiosity flickering in his heterochromatic eyes.

After only a few minutes, Limloo returned, his core pulsating rhythmically as he relayed his findings telepathically.

"My Lord, your territory is in dire need of resources and fortifications. The perimeter lacks any meaningful defenses, and our current stockpile of mana stones is insufficient for sustainable growth."

Augustus sat on his wooden throne and nodded, his expression serious. "That much I already knew. What I need are solutions."

Limloo hesitated for a brief moment before replying. "If I may suggest, we must first prioritize fortifying the village. While the slimes lack the dexterity to construct structures, I can devise a method to guide them more effectively."

"Additionally, our best chance of acquiring resources lies in controlled scavenging missions, focusing on areas rich in mana stones or other valuable materials."

Augustus tapped his finger on the wooden armrest of his throne, his heterochromatic eyes narrowing. "You're suggesting smarter scavenging and better organization… that might just work."

He leaned forward, his tone growing more serious. "However, there's something else I need to tell you. I've discovered through secretive means that the Slime Village will be raided by goblins. Two days from now at the earliest, they'll attack."

Limloo's core dimmed briefly, his glow pulsing in what Augustus assumed was concern. "Goblins, my Lord? That is dire news. Their crude intelligence and strength will easily overpower the slimes in their current state."

"That's exactly why we need a plan," Augustus replied. "They're led by a lord—a human—and based on what I've seen, he's cunning. They'll likely send a full raiding party to wipe us out."

His jaw tightened as he added, "We can't afford to wait passively."

Limloo's glow intensified, his voice steady and filled with resolve. "Understood, my Lord. In that case, I recommend focusing on two priorities: fortifications and evolution."

"First, we must enhance the slimes' combat capabilities to better withstand the attack. Second, we need to reinforce the perimeter to slow their advance. It won't stop them entirely, but it might buy us precious time."

Augustus leaned back in his throne, considering the suggestions. "And how do you propose we enhance the slimes? They're weak in both intelligence and combat. I've seen firsthand how easily their cores can be destroyed."

"With your permission, I can begin experimenting with mana infusion, my Lord," Limloo replied. "By channeling concentrated mana into the slimes, we may be able to accelerate their growth and grant them basic combat traits. However, the process will require time and careful management to avoid undesirable mutations."

Augustus's lips curled into a smirk. "Experimentation, huh? Fine. Let's see what you can do. Just make sure it doesn't backfire."

Limloo pulsed brightly, his telepathic voice brimming with confidence and reverence. "Your trust is an honor, my Lord. I will not fail you."

As Augustus nodded, ready to issue his next command, a sharp pang in his stomach pulled him out of his thoughts. He blinked, a realization dawning on him. 

In the chaos of adapting to the Supreme Plane—and the immersive nature of the simulation—he'd completely forgotten something critical.

"I haven't eaten anything since I arrived," Augustus muttered, his voice carrying a mix of irritation and mild embarrassment.

Limloo, perceptive as ever, responded immediately. "My Lord, your survival is paramount. Allow me to organize the slimes to secure sustenance for you. We shall ensure that you are well-fed."

Augustus nodded, glancing at the small group of slimes wriggling aimlessly nearby. "Good. Start by having them search for human-edible food—wild berries, fruits, small animals, whatever they can find. Can you poison-test anything they bring back? I need to know it's safe to eat."

Limloo's core glowed warmly, signaling his understanding. "Indeed, my Lord. With my awakened abilities, I can adapt to any harmful substances and analyze their properties. Rest assured, anything I test will be thoroughly assessed for your safety."

"Impressive," Augustus said, leaning back slightly.

His heterochromatic eyes glinted with renewed determination. "Then get to it. And take charge of the slimes while you're at it. I need a proper leader to keep them in line."

Limloo bowed slightly, his gelatinous form rippling with purpose. "As you command, my Lord. I shall guide them with utmost dedication."

The 46 slimes scattered around the village quickly fell under Limloo's direction.

With a single pulse of mana, he transmitted simple yet precise orders to each of them, dividing them into small groups.

Some were sent toward the nearby forest to scavenge for berries and fruits, while others ventured toward the riverbanks in search of small game or other resources.

Limloo led a select few slimes personally, demonstrating his superior intelligence as he tested unknown berries by enveloping them in his gelatinous form.

Through his advanced analysis, he could detect toxins and adapt his own structure to neutralize them. Each time he identified something edible, he transmitted the information to the other slimes, improving their efficiency.

Back at the Dilapidated Lord's Hall, Augustus observed the operation with a mix of amazement and relief.

Limloo's influence was immediately apparent. The once-aimless slimes now moved with purpose, their actions coordinated and precise.

Within an hour, the first batch of foragers returned, carrying a modest haul of berries, nuts, and even a small hare caught by a group near the river.

Limloo approached Augustus, his core glowing softly as he presented the findings.

"My Lord, I have personally tested and verified the safety of these berries and fruits. They are suitable for human consumption. As for the hare, it remains unharmed and ready for your command."