A magic tool that can identify the souls of evil spirits?
Just a second ago, I never expected to be in this situation.
But…
'Whatever it is, nothing changes.'
I dismiss the curiosity-driven questions.
Does he know something?
Or is it just a coincidence?
If I can't be sure, it's best to assume the worst and act accordingly.
The old man suspects me.
Then what should I do right now?
"…Magic tool?"
I frown and look at the old man.
As if the word 'magic tool' bothers me more than 'evil spirit'. As if that's the reason for the brief silence earlier.
"…It's safe, right?"
I look at him with distrust.
I'm a barbarian who knows nothing about magic.
And I've seen countless suspicious-looking magic tools in Raven's research lab.
'This is the right reaction, right?'
I finish my split-second judgment and take action.
Therefore, it's the old man's turn to make a move.
"Hmm."
The old man observes me with a meaningful look and then changes his expression and speaks.
"Huhu, you don't trust me? Me, the master of the Artemion school?"
As I look at him as if to say, 'do you really need to say that?', the old man clicks his tongue.
"Tsk, what does this friend take me for? Don't worry. Aru will prove that the magic tool is harmless to the human body."
"…Yes? Me?"
"It's not that difficult, is it?"
"Yes, well… if it's just confirming what kind of spells are imbued in the magic tool…"
The master of the school and a barbarian she's known for 3 months.
It's obvious which side Raven will prioritize, so it's hard to trust those words.
But…
'No matter what excuse I make to refuse, I'll just fall for their tricks in the end.'
As I listen to their conversation, I'm convinced.
The old man suspects me, although I don't know where I left a clue.
Fortunately, he doesn't seem to be certain yet.
Judging by the fact that he's trying to test me with a non-existent magic tool.
'There probably… is no such magic tool.'
I suppress my anxiety and rationally gather evidence.
A magic tool that identifies evil spirits?
It hasn't existed for thousands of years.
As civilization develops, it wouldn't be strange for such a thing to appear someday, but…
'There's no way this old man would be the first to create it.'
The Artemion school is a traditional mage school.
They mainly conduct research on creating new spells and such, rather than minor topics like dimensions or souls.
But for a mage like that to create an evil spirit detector?
'In the first place, if such a thing really existed, he would have somehow tricked me into sitting in front of the magic tool. He wouldn't be testing me like this.'
I finally reach my conclusion.
There's no evil spirit detector.
The old man is just trying to observe my reaction.
Therefore…
"So what are you going to do? There's no danger, and it won't even take long."
"…It won't take long?"
"About 5 minutes should be enough."
"Tsk, if that's the case…"
I accept the old man's offer.
Although it's a bit unsettling, there's nothing to lose if it ends quickly.
But was my decision unexpected?
"…Are you really okay with it?"
The old man asks me back, completely erasing any remaining anxiety I had.
I ask nonchalantly,
"What do you mean? Okay with what?"
"…Didn't you say it could be dangerous earlier?"
"She said she would check it, didn't she!"
"That's true, but…"
"Let's go. I woke up early this morning and I'm tired, so I want to go back and get some sleep!"
Damn it, this old man is up to something.
________________________
"He's gone…"
Raven sighs deeply as she hears her master's seemingly empty words in the lab where Bjorn left.
She doesn't understand the situation at all.
A magic tool that identifies evil spirits?
She's never heard of her master researching such a thing…
"What was that about earlier?"
"...."
"Stop being like that. Are you really not going to tell me?"
She had to prove to Bjorn that the magic tool was safe under her master's instructions.
It wasn't a difficult task.
The magic tool that the master brought out as an evil spirit detector didn't have any spells imbued in it.
It was just a strangely shaped chair.
[Don't say anything and just play along.]
However, she remained silent as instructed by her master.
So now it's time to hear the truth.
Of course, she has a guess.
She's not that clueless.
"...Don't tell me you thought Mr. Yandel was an evil spirit? Is that why you kept asking about what happened in the labyrinth?"
The master neither denies nor confirms.
But sometimes, silence is the most definitive answer.
"Ha... so have you cleared your suspicion?"
"...Yes, I was wrong."
"It's understandable that you would think that, Master. He's a unique person. But I have one question. I really want you to answer this."
At her repeated question, the master replies weakly,
"...What is it?"
"Why did you do that? If you suspected him of being an evil spirit, you could have just given a hint to the Secret Security Department, and they would have taken care of it—"
"Then he would die."
A small murmur.
"Yes? What do you mean—."
"Enough, I'm tired. I'll be on my way, so please clean up."
The master then gets up, his small body seeming frail.
And he leaves with a gait that's uncharacteristically subdued.
The lab is now empty, with only her left.
She ponders the words her master left behind.
'Then he would die...'
In other words, it means he needs a live evil spirit.
'What the hell do you want, Master?'
She can't shake off the unsettling feeling.
__________________________
Thud!
I return to the inn and collapse onto the bed.
I feel like all my energy has been drained since morning.
I want to get some sleep, but...
'I was really surprised when he suddenly appeared without warning.'
I loosen up my tense muscles and reflect on what happened today.
It doesn't seem like I made any mistakes.
Thinking back, it was a good response.
I assumed the worst but prevented myself from jumping to conclusions based on the clues available, and as a result, I was able to deduce the best answer.
'Judging by his expression at the end, the old man seems to have completely cleared his suspicion.'
Although it was a sudden incident, it worked out well.
However, there's one thing that's slightly unsettling.
When the old man became certain that I wasn't an evil spirit, he seemed somewhat disappointed.
Why?
'...Well, it's none of my business.'
I briefly contemplate and then clear my thoughts.
It's a question with no answer, and whatever the reason, it has no direct connection to my safety.
'Still, I feel a bit relieved.'
I went through some shitty things this morning.
But paradoxically, this incident has given me a strange sense of relief. With this, the luck stacks that have been piling up recently should be somewhat offset—
"Bjorn! Wake up! It's already midday, how long are you going to sleep?!"
Did I fall asleep?
I open my eyes to see Misha shaking my body.
I didn't leave the door open, so she must have used the spare key I gave her a while ago.
'I gave it to her to use in case of an emergency...'
"Misha, why are you here? You said you were going to the Magic Tower today."
"You came home late yesterday. I was going to wake you up if you were asleep!"
Hmm, if that's the reason...
I'll think about taking back the spare key later.
"Ah, but how did you know I came home late? Don't tell me you were waiting?"
"Didn't you promise to tell me what happened there when you got back? And besides, I didn't wait that long, so don't worry about it."
Although she says that, she must have been waiting for me until late at night.
Is she that curious about what happened at the banquet?
"So tell me. What happened?"
At Misha's urging, I slowly tell her what happened yesterday.
How I wore the barbarian warrior outfit prepared by the butler, led the carriage procession to the banquet venue...
The food I ate there.
And how I ended up winning the tournament.
"Eek, you really won? You defeated all those knights?"
"Apprentice knights, not knights."
"They're still knights! That's amazing!"
Amazing my ass.
Except for the guy I met in the finals, Misha could have easily won against the rest even if she had been there.
Her physical skills are truly amazing.
"Anyway, just use this."
After briefly explaining what happened, I start writing letters with Misha.
Replies to the nobles.
I had written them all this morning, but somehow there were more after I woke up.
"...Bjorn, is it really okay to send them like this? They're nobles. Something might happen."
"It's fine."
"Hmm, if you say so, but..."
Misha writes the letters as I dictate, with an uneasy expression.
Geez, there's nothing to worry about.
What more could they expect from a letter written by a barbarian?
In the first place, it's a miracle that we even get replies...
[I'm busy, so I can't go.]
[So find another barbarian.]
[Sender: Bjorn, son of Yandel]
Yeah, this is more than enough to maintain my dignity.
______________________________
I'm at a noble's mansion.
It's a spacious, glittering place with delicious smells wafting from everywhere.
"I think I finally understand what the chieftain meant when he said the world is vast!"
It feels like I've come to another world.
People's clothes, their way of speaking, the sound of music...
All we had were drums...
"What are you doing? Come here."
"Ah, alright!"
A barbarian who became an adult a month ago.
Dkart, son of Kafen, follows the client towards the center of the banquet.
"Tsk, what's with that gait? Walk more confidently!"
He feels a bit wronged.
He doesn't even know what walking confidently means.
And the equipment he's wearing is unnecessarily large and uncomfortable.
He's more comfortable with his bare body...
He wants to complain, but Dkart keeps his mouth shut.
It's because he remembers what happened the other day.
[That guy walked just fine even while wearing something bigger?]
A few days ago, he was lured by the promise of a large sum of money and followed a noble, where he received various kinds of education. Most of it was about how to behave at banquets.
At first, he was angry.
Is he making these ridiculous demands because I'm a barbarian?
Is he looking down on me?
But...
[That guy? Who is that guy that you keep making demands based on something you heard?]
[I'm talking about Bjorn, son of Yandel, Little Balkan.]
...after learning who that guy was, he had no choice but to endure everything.
Bjorn, son of Yandel.
He's a warrior among warriors, who defeated all the knights at a noble's banquet and even earned the cool title of Knight Crusher.
'As expected, am I not good enough to become like him...'
Dkart, who heard about his story, resolved to show a cool side of himself at this banquet.
Because there's no way the actions of that warrior, whom even the chieftain praised so highly, could be wrong.
If there's anything wrong, it must be on my side.
He decided to act like a 'warrior'.
However, it wasn't as easy as he thought.
He feels involuntarily intimidated being among elegant and noble-looking aristocrats who are so different from him.
And...
"De, delicious…!"
"Louder! That guy wasn't embarrassed!"
"Be, Behel—la…!!!"
Honestly, it was embarrassing.
Even for a barbarian, isn't it ridiculous to shout in admiration of food in front of people?
Well, if he were alone, he would probably have shouted several times.
"Don't just eat the meat, chew on the bones too!"
Anyway, his teeth hurt too.
"Napkin? Why do you need that?"
His hands are sticky from eating.
"Why are you taking off the helmet again?"
His neck and shoulders are stiff.
And soon, he has to participate in a tournament exclusively for barbarian participants.
Will he even be able to fight properly?
He feels pathetic for even worrying about this.
It's not like his opponent is a knight, unlike that guy.
'They say you'll get your head smashed while chasing goblins and trolls...'
When he first entered the city after finishing his coming-of-age ceremony, his heart pounded with the ambition of becoming a famous warrior someday.
But is this the wall of reality?
In less than a month, he's faced with his own shortcomings.
"Why can't you even do that?"
Dkart finally says what he's been holding back.
"I'm... just an ordinary warrior."
To shout when you want to shout.
To smash things when you want to smash them.
To act as you please without shame, regardless of who's around.
"I can't do that..."
That's a right reserved only for true strong individuals, true warriors who have confidence in themselves.
"Please, stop comparing me to him. Bjorn, son of Yandel, he's an amazing warrior that I can't even compare to."
"Phew, so that guy was special after all..."
The noble sighs at Dkart's confession.
And he looks at the empty air with eyes filled with desire.
Or maybe it's not just him.
"I see. So it has to be him..."
"Well, there's no way a barbarian as barbaric as him would be common."
"I thought all barbarians were like him."
"They're unexpectedly normal..."
If you listen closely, similar words are being uttered throughout the banquet hall.
__________________________________
「Character's fame has increased by +10.」
「Character's fame has increased by +10....」
「....」
-x-X-x-
It's the day of our regular meeting.
All the party members gather at a bar for the first time in a while.
It's not the same bar we usually meet at.
Because the dwarf threw a fit.
[Let's go somewhere else! That place is clearly cursed!]
It seems like he was creeped out by the incident where he was dragged away by the Moselan knights for insulting a noble.
Misha and Rotmiller readily agreed.
Explorers tend to be superstitious.
'Well, I can understand, but...'
'I feel like this is a bit much.'
I sigh.
Changing the meeting place is fine.
Although it's annoying, that choice doesn't have any real impact.
Unlike the bombshell declaration the dwarf just made a while ago.
"...Why are you so quiet?"
The dwarf fidgets and starts observing my expression as I sigh silently.
Right, he has at least that much conscience left.
"Wait, I'm thinking."
"Al, alright."
A heavy silence falls over the gathering.
I quietly organize my thoughts.
"To summarize, you guys are saying you won't participate in this expedition."
There are ten days left until the labyrinth opens.
We gathered to finalize our plans, and the dwarf announced that he won't be participating in the exploration.
And it's not just his opinion.
As if they had discussed it beforehand, Rotmiller and Dwarkey agree.
"Ahem! There's a saying, 'where there's smoke, there's fire'."
"Considering the situation, we judged that it's best to wait for a month and observe the situation."
This is like a group boycott.
Three out of five members of a small team have declared non-participation.
The reason is simple.
They're anxious because of the widespread rumor that a dimensional collapse is about to happen.
That's how human psychology works.
Even if you think it's unlikely based on logic, you're easily swayed by the surrounding atmosphere.
"All my former companions said they won't be entering this time either."
"Wouldn't it be better for you to rest too? Next year's taxes won't be a problem for you..."
"What if, just in case, it really happens? Then it's all over!"
The three of them, who initially started by apologizing, are now even worried about me.
"...Bjorn, what are we going to do?"
Misha asks cautiously about my decision.
Actually, persuading them wouldn't be difficult.
If I just subtly mention what I learned from Ghostbusters and take some time to convince them, they'll change their minds.
But...
'There's no need for that.'
Come to think of it, it's not bad.
'It's been over three months since we went to the 'Crimson Fortress'.'
'This works out well. I was planning on finding an excuse to enter the labyrinth separately soon anyway.'
In the early stages of the game, it's standard practice to clear 1st-floor rifts whenever the cooldown is up.
"If that's what you guys think, then it can't be helped. We'll just enter the labyrinth as a duo this time."
"Eek? Me, me too?"
"Did you think I would leave you behind?"
"Uh, that's not it…"
Yes, it is.
She clearly has an expression that says she doesn't want to go.
"Then just stay here alone—"
"Ugh, this barbarian! Shouldn't you at least ask properly first? Try speaking a little more nicely, unlike usual!"
Nicely?
Hmm…
"…Would you like to come with me?"
"Tsk, would I leave you alone?"
I don't know what she wants…
"Anyway, that's settled."
The decision is made.
This time, we're entering a rift.
___________________________
"Extra! Extra!"
Coincidentally, the day after the dwarf announced his non-participation, a notice was posted throughout the city.
It was an official notice from the royal family stating that the rumors about the dimensional collapse were groundless and just nonsense.
'It happened exactly as that person said.'
The notice also mentioned the Tarutein school.
That they were so blinded by their research that they intentionally spread those rumors?
It's a bit surprising.
Although I paid 40,000 GP for that information, I didn't expect him to predict the situation so accurately.
"Hahaha! Bjorn! Did you see that?"
Anyway, when evening came, the dwarf came to find me.
And with a happy face, he retracted his declaration from yesterday and said he could now enter the labyrinth.
But what am I supposed to do?
I've already decided which rift to enter.
"What? You want to enter together? I already accepted a request, so I can't!"
"Huh? A request?"
I recite the answer I had prepared.
That there's no way Misha and I would earn much just by hunting together.
That's why I accepted a request.
And that it's an escort request within the labyrinth, so I have to stay by their side until we return to the city.
"Is there… no way you can refuse?"
"I already received the down payment, are you telling me to break my promise?"
"Th, that's not what I meant…"
It's a perfect answer, leaving no room for negotiation.
The dwarf just shrugs and leaves.
Well, what else could he say here?
After all, the cause of this incident is ultimately his declaration of non-participation.
'Tsk, seeing him like that makes me feel a bit sorry for him.'
Even if it weren't for this, I would have eventually made an excuse and left with Misha.
We can't enter the rift with five people, after all.
Leaving aside the fact that there would be more people to share the loot with, the risk we would have to take would increase.
'Still, this is the right thing to do, right?'
I try to let go of any lingering thoughts.
It's just a matter of fact.
Thud.
As soon as the dwarf leaves and the door closes, Misha comes running over.
"Escort request? When did you accept something like that?"
"Don't worry about it, I just made it up."
"Made it up?"
Misha tilts her head as if she doesn't understand.
I confess honestly.
That we're going to enter a rift on the next expedition.
That I know a way that ordinary people don't.
"Don't tell me you found out about that at the library too?"
"Well, something like that."
"Hmm… but why are you keeping it a secret from Hikurod? Wouldn't it be good to enter together?"
It's a question that sounds so innocent.
I chuckle and ask back,
"Misha, have you told anyone about how you made a contract with a Spirit Beast using the Frost Spirit Ring?"
"Huh? I didn't."
"Really, no one?"
"You told me to keep it a secret."
"That's right."
I nod and continue,
"But what if it were Hikurod? Do you think he would have kept it a secret if I asked him the same thing?"
Misha contemplates for a moment and then shakes her head.
"…If it were Hikurod, I wouldn't be surprised if he blabbed about it after drinking."
"What about Dwarkey or Rotmiller?"
"Hmm…, I feel like Dwarkey would accidentally let it slip even when sober, and Rotmiller… I don't know."
Is everyone's judgment of people similar?
Misha's predictions are surprisingly similar to what I thought inwardly.
Except for Rotmiller.
'Actually, he's the easiest one to figure out.'
Rotmiller would have kept the secret.
And he would have wondered how I knew such information, suspecting me inwardly.
"Ah! So that's why you kept it a secret!"
Anyway, at this point, Misha seems to understand what I'm trying to say.
However, did she have another question?
"Then what about me? Why did you tell me?"
There are several reasons.
Misha is unexpectedly meticulous and tight-lipped.
But at the same time, she's inherently bad at lying.
That's why I can confirm whether the secret has been leaked just by asking her like I did just now.
But…
…one word should be enough this time too.
I'm a barbarian, after all.
"You're someone I can trust."
"…Hic!"
Misha starts hiccuping.
______________________________
There are 8 days left until the labyrinth opens.
As expected, time flies by as I do what needs to be done.
To summarize briefly…
The first day.
Since our destination is a rift, there were quite a few things to prepare.
First, equipment.
[You're buying equipment again?]
[It's not buying, it's enchanting.]
I imbued my mace and Misha's twin swords with an attribute.
「The equipment is imbued with the power of lightning.」
「A portion of the damage dealt with this equipment is converted to lightning damage.」
The cost for both is 600,000 stones.
Although it's a temporary enchantment that only lasts for 30 days…
…we're planning to clear a rift with just the two of us, so this much investment is worth it.
[If you're going to do it anyway, shouldn't you have made it permanent?]
[That would have cost twenty times more.]
[....]
And I also bought a few consumables.
Items related to the lightning attribute, such as Thundergrass and Lightning Scrolls.
It only cost about 300,000 stones in total, but since they're not items in high demand, I had to run around to several places to find them.
Ah, and lastly…
[…Are you really buying this expensive thing?]
[You even bought an expandable backpack, why are you making a fuss about this?]
[But this is a consumable! It disappears after you use it!]
…after much deliberation, I bought one top-grade potion.
The purchase price was 1.03 million stones.
However, the top-grade potion isn't an investment for the rift. I just finally decided to buy one that I've been wanting to have for a while.
For explorers who travel without a priest, a top-grade potion is like another life.
[When the time comes to use it, you won't regret spending the money.]
[Hmm, that's true, but…]
[It's not that much of a burden since we're splitting the cost.]
For reference, the cost of about 2 million stones so far was all taken from the shared account.
[Ugh, so we're done spending money?]
[At least you are.]
[...?]
The second day.
I headed to the sanctuary first thing in the morning.
This time, the chieftain also greeted me.
[Bjorn, son of Yandel! I heard about you! I'm so proud! To gain the title of Knight Crusher!]
Unlike last time when it was a brief encounter, the chieftain praised me for a long time.
He said that rumors about me have already spread throughout the sanctuary, and the young warriors are all excited?
Anyway, it was a meaningless conversation, so I roughly responded and headed towards the shaman's tent.
And…
[Kuku, warrior, you're quite resourceful. To earn that much money in just two months.]
I paid a whopping 4 million stones and activated the 4th stage of the Undying Engraving.
「4th stage of Undying Engraving activated. Mental Strength and Soul Power increased.」
「Mental stat increased by +30.」
「Ability stat increased by +10.」
Although the money I earned from the baron incident disappeared…
…it was still a profitable deal in the end.
Leaving aside the 'Mental Strength' stat, which gives strong resistance to mental magic and status effects…
…there's practically no way to increase 'Soul Power', which acts as MP, except for leveling up and absorbing certain essences.
The third day.
I returned to the accommodation half-dead and fainted. As soon as I woke up, I checked the change in my MP.
The duration of [Gigantification] has increased by 1.5 times.
[Why are you doing that first thing in the morning? Go wash up. Let's eat first.]
Misha arrived just in time, so we had a simple breakfast.
It's become a daily routine since some time ago.
[You're going to the library? Can I come with you?]
[You…?]
[What's with that expression! I also feel like reading books sometimes!]
After breakfast, I went to the library with Misha.
But why is it?
[Parsityev.]
Ragna used the regular [Book Detection] spell.
Not the [Special Book Detection] spell.
When I asked her about it because it was strange, I got an even stranger answer.
She said that since it's something she's doing 'specially' in secret, she can't use it in front of others?
[Hmm, then shouldn't you have told me quietly?]
[That's true. Miss Kaltstein, was it? Please forget what you just heard.]
What the…?
I didn't want to think about it, so I just went inside with Misha and read books.
The fourth day.
I visited the Magic Tower and helped Raven with her research.
For reference, this was the last time I helped.
Because I fulfilled the number of times I promised.
I don't have to come here every week anymore.
[You've worked hard.]
[Thank you for acknowledging it.]
[Geez, you really have a way with words… Anyway, don't die.]
It was a business relationship, so our farewells were brief.
However, contrary to my expectations, Raven didn't take back my Magic Tower pass.
[Come back if something happens. Ah, I don't mean you should come and bother me all the time… you know what I mean, right? It seems like you often get involved in strange things, Mr. Yandel. I think I'll be curious about how you're doing.]
[Alright.]
For reference, I ran into the old man on my way out, but he showed surprisingly little interest in me.
It wasn't anger or disappointment…
…but complete indifference.
Only then did I realize one thing.
This old man suspected me of being an evil spirit from our first encounter.
That's why he pretended to be friendly back then.
The fifth day, the sixth day, the seventh day.
It was an ordinary routine afterwards.
I had breakfast with Misha in the morning, sparred with her for training during the day, and went to the library to read books in the evening.
And so, time passed, and it's now…
"Everyone, please step back!"
…the long-awaited moment has arrived.
Swaaaaaaaaa!
A blinding light erupts from the center of the Dimensional Plaza, where countless explorers have gathered.
"Bjorn, son of Yandel! Thank you for the advice today! I'll go in first!!"
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
As soon as the connection between the city and the labyrinth is established, the group of barbarians who were nearby rush into the portal.
To even express gratitude…
Why are our barbarians so polite?
"Hahaha! Those guys are lucky to have a good senior like you."
"I just showed them the way."
"Geez, don't be so modest."
For reference, the dwarf, Rotmiller, and Dwarkey are next to me. Since they can't just waste a month, they decided to enter the labyrinth as a trio.
"Be careful. If anyone acts friendly, be sure to suspect them."
"Hahaha! Do I look like those young barbarians to you?"
…You kind of do, actually.
Well, with Rotmiller around, I'm sure they'll be fine.
Since they said they'll only stay on the 2nd floor, there shouldn't be any major risks for the three of them.
"Then we should also get going… You guys aren't coming?"
"Ah, our client hasn't arrived yet."
"I see. Then see you tomorrow… no, see you later!"
After a brief farewell, the three of them enter the labyrinth first. However, I stay put and watch as the crowd thins out.
Misha asks, puzzled,
"Bjorn, aren't we going in?"
"Wait."
"Huh? Until when?"
Ah, geez… this is why newbies are…
Just wait when I tell you to wait.
「Entered 1st Floor Crystal Cave.」
Experience points are duplicated, you know?
_______________________________
「Bjorn Yandel」
Level: 4 (New +1)
Physical: 380 / Mental: 154 (+30) / Ability: 128 (New +13)
Item Level: 828
Total Combat Index: 865 (New +43)
Acquired Essences: Corpse Golem - Rank 7 / Vampire (Guardian) - Rank 5 / Orc Hero - Rank 5
-x-X-x-
Darkness enveloped us as soon as we entered the labyrinth.
I quickly took out a torch to illuminate the surroundings and placed my hand on the stele right in front of me.
Phew, how long has it been?
Whoosh!
The untouched stele.
The multicolored light emanating from it.
And the feeling of getting something for nothing, a sensation unique to those who exploit the system.
「Opened a portal for the first time. EXP +2」
Misha muttered, looking at the shimmering orb of light,
"Wh, what? Did we just open a portal?"
Well, she wouldn't know about this awesome bug.
I repeated the explanation I gave Ainar before.
"Dimensional instability phenomenon? This happens when you use that?"
Unlike Ainar, who gave up on understanding, Misha tried to grasp it.
Of course, there was no way it would work.
Even I can't explain the exact principle behind it.
I'm just using a 'phenomenon' that I happened to learn about.
"...I feel bad for Rotmiller."
"Huh?"
"If he finds out about this method... he'll be devastated. Just like I was when I made a contract with the Spirit Beast using that ring."
Ah, that's what she meant.
I was wondering what she meant by feeling bad out of the blue.
Indeed, Rotmiller will definitely feel a huge sense of loss if he learns about this exploit.
[Even if not now, if I work hard, the day will come when I can open a portal with my own hands. That's my dream as a scout.]
As he cautiously revealed his ambition at a gathering, he's serious about his job as a scout.
And it's not an empty dream either.
His pathfinding abilities are truly remarkable.
He's top-tier in the 1st floor, where he's been diligently working. If he could just shorten the time by about 2 hours, he might be able to achieve his dream.
It's definitely not an easy task, though.
"Then let's go up for now."
Anyway, enough chit-chat.
Misha and I stepped into the portal.
「Entered 2nd Floor Rock Desert.」
Sand crunches under my feet.
Hot air rises from below.
Stone ruins cast shadows in the pitch-black darkness, illuminated by the flickering torch.
"Rock Desert."
Tsk, why here of all places?
I led Misha and went back down to the 1st floor.
And we headed east, following the compass.
'We're on the opposite side, so we'll be walking for almost two days.'
If we had entered the labyrinth using the normal method, it would have been enough to walk for a day to reach any destination...
Well, there's always a trade-off, right?
And besides, although the experience points gained from opening a portal are only 2, they stack permanently.
If I can get it just by walking for one more day, it's a definite advantage.
"Ugh, I definitely feel the void now that Rotmiller isn't here."
"..."
We managed to escape the dark zone, the outermost area, after about three hours. Even though we were following the compass, we occasionally took wrong turns and ended up at dead ends.
"But isn't it nice to just walk together like this?"
"What are you talking about?"
"No, I mean... it's nice to have five people and be noisy, but this isn't bad either."
At first, I wasn't sure what she meant, but as I listened, I think I understood.
The dwarf and Dwarkey talk too much.
Honestly, there are times when it's funny, but most of the time, it's draining just to listen.
"Giggle!"
As we were walking through the dimly lit Crystal Cave after leaving the dark zone, monsters kept attacking us.
The monsters that appear in this western area are gnomes.
As expected of 9th-grade monsters, they died with a thud when hit.
"Geek...?!"
The clay dolls turn into mush and disappear with one swing of the mace. Catching them is not a problem, it's just annoying.
The gnome's active skill is [Assimilation].
It's a stealth skill, so they only become visible when you get within 3 meters of them.
'If Rotmiller were here, he would have taken care of them as soon as they appeared.'
Is it because I'm coming from a 5-person party?
I can understand the dwarf, but I kind of miss that man. He was always the type to silently do his job, like a know-it-all, you know?
Ah, and Dwarkey too.
If he were here, I wouldn't have to pick up the magic stones myself.
"Bjorn, someone is coming…!"
As I'm walking and thinking about various things, Misha taps my waist and whispers quietly.
As expected of a beastman with keen senses, she sensed someone before me.
"What are we going to do?"
What do you mean, what are we going to do?
They must have noticed us a long time ago.
Clank, clank.
Soon, a 5-person party appears from the front.
It's a regular party with a mage and a priest.
They reached this point in just 3 hours, so the level of their equipment is quite high.
'...At least 6th floor.'
I don't know what kind of essences they have.
But the 3rd and 4th-tier equipment they're wearing from head to toe is proof of their level.
Equipment is like an explorer's ID card.
However, is it the same for them?
"Hmm."
Doubt and wariness appear in their eyes as they pass by.
Well, that's natural.
They wouldn't have expected to meet a barbarian and a beastman wearing 2nd-tier equipment here, especially at this time.
'Phew, please just go past us.'
Fortunately, they pass us by without saying anything.
It's not because my earnest wish was granted…
…but rather because they didn't have the time.
"Mr. Revlon, let's increase our speed."
"Alright."
It's fortunate that they're speedrunning.
They must have thought that other competitors might have gone further ahead since we appeared here.
'Geez, you guys are already the fastest.'
Since we're backtracking from the portal, I know that they're at the very front.
Well, even if they get there, they'll just see a portal that's already open.
"Wow, those people really run everywhere."
Misha exclaims in admiration, as if it's her first time seeing explorers speedrunning.
Although it took less than 2 seconds from when they came into view to when they passed by, it seems like it was quite an impressive sight.
"What are you looking at? We'll have to do that someday too."
"...We will?"
Misha tilts her head.
Well, it's understandable that she wouldn't be able to imagine it even if I said so.
It was just a while ago that she was treated as a half-breed by her family because she couldn't even make a contract with a Spirit Beast.
"Come to think of it, Bjorn, you seem to have big ambitions. Is it because you're a barbarian?"
"...Are you making fun of me?"
"Idiot, I meant it's cool!"
"Ahem."
…She's a bit too direct sometimes.
__________________________
Does she think she's a barbarian?
"Did you see the weapon that swordsman was wearing?"
"The Orichalcum sword?"
"Yeah, that one! It really was Orichalcum. I wonder how much it would cost to make a weapon with that..."
Misha continues talking about the party we encountered earlier.
It seems like she admires high-ranking explorers.
Well, it's a much more positive emotion than envy or arrogance, but...
You can't achieve anything just with admiration.
"Stop talking and move your feet."
"Hmph, you'd think I was standing still or something."
Anyway, as we continue walking east, the frequency of encountering explorers increases.
At first, it was mostly high-ranking explorers like the party we saw earlier, but as time goes on, their level gradually decreases.
I take out my watch.
[18:57]
19 hours have passed since the labyrinth opened.
That means we've been walking almost all day.
Thanks to that, we've finally reached the starting point, the central area of the 1st-floor Crystal Cave.
Therefore, we no longer have to worry about encountering high-ranking explorers and being suspected, but...
'Phew, I didn't think about this either.'
Now that we're here, it's noticeable in a different way.
"Did you see that? The size of that mace..."
"His backpack seems like an expandable backpack too."
Explorers look at us with envious eyes as we pass by.
Well, it would look strange.
We're clearly supposed to be hunting on higher floors, but we're right here in the central area of the 1st floor.
"Why are those guys still here..."
It's evening, the time when explorers start looking for night companions to rest.
They each mutter something as they pass by in groups of 3 or 4.
It's a strange feeling.
'I used to be like them.'
When I first entered the labyrinth...
I also looked for night companions to rest with.
The problem was that the first one I met was Hans A.
"Why are you suddenly laughing?"
"I just remembered something from before."
To be precise, I laughed because I remembered myself struggling to pretend to sleep next to Hans A even though I was exhausted.
I went through all sorts of hardships before meeting Erwen.
'Ah, I wonder how she's doing?'
She's a rich girl with her sister, so she's probably doing fine, but I'm suddenly curious.
After all, she was the first companion I met in this world.
Should I try to find her and meet up sometime?
As I'm walking and thinking that...
A man catches my eye.
He's not doing anything particularly noticeable, but...
'Geez, what a shitty look in his eyes.'
I don't like his gaze.
I can feel envy and greed glimmering in his unfriendly eyes as he looks at me.
However, I laugh again.
'I've really grown a lot.'
If it were the old me, I would have started assuming the worst and become anxious inwardly just from that look.
But I've changed a lot since then.
It's not that I've become soft, but rather...
Smirk.
There's no reason to be scared of a goblin now.
Well, I'm not saying this guy is a goblin.
But in terms of combat power, he wouldn't be much different.
Even I, who always assumes the worst-case scenario...
...can't imagine myself being stabbed to death by that shabby sword.
Hmm, right… that would definitely be the case, but…
'Why do I feel increasingly shitty?'
I need to confirm something.
"You."
I stop and look at him, and he flinches and stands up from his leaning position against the wall.
His eyes are filled with wariness, replacing the earlier unpleasant look.
"Do you have something to say to me?"
"Uh, no…?"
"Then why are you looking at me like that?"
"…Sorry."
The man apologizes, and Misha nudges my waist with her fist.
"Bjorn! Why are you acting like this suddenly? What did he do wrong…"
Somehow, it feels like I saw this scene somewhere before. A delinquent picking a fight with a passerby, and his girlfriend trying to stop him.
No, but I'm telling you, this guy's eyes were particularly shitty.
"What's your name?"
"Hanst Ivan."
"Hanst? Not Hans?"
The man trembles at my question.
He must feel insulted that some random barbarian is suddenly making fun of his name.
But this is a really important point.
"Are you really Hanst? You're not mistaken or anything?"
"I, I'm really Hanst…"
Hmm, then was it really just my imagination?
As I'm contemplating for a moment, the man adds in a nervous voice,
"I, I used to be Hans, but I changed it because it was too common."
"…What?"
Damn it, no wonder I felt so shitty.
But since he even changed his name, I decide to let it go and continue on my way.
Ah, of course, I should at least give him some advice before that.
"Never go back to your original name. Keep living as Hanst. Got it?"
"Al, alright."
Hanst nods vigorously.
That's when…
Drrdrdrdrdr.
The cave starts shaking as if there's an earthquake.
Misha looks at me, surprised by this sudden phenomenon.
"Bjorn?"
Her eyes seek an answer.
Of course, I know the answer.
There's only one thing that causes this kind of phenomenon in the labyrinth.
"Run!"
A rift is about to open.
And before Day 1 has even passed.
'Damn it.'
Although few people would know this…
…rifts usually need to reach at least Day 3 to be 'naturally generated'.
That means…
'Who the hell did it?'
…someone beat me to it.
Using the same method I was going to use.
-x-X-x-
"Wh, what the hell! Suddenly…"
"Earthquake…?"
The explorers who were sleeping wake up at the tremors that spread through the ground.
I realize…
Once a Hans, always a Hans.
'I can't believe even changing his name wouldn't work.'
I sigh deeply and look at Hanst…
No, the man who will now be remembered as Hans G, one last time.
"I, I didn't do anything!"
Yeah, I know.
There's no way you could have opened a rift while being here.
It's just my shitty luck.
"Bjorn?"
"Run!"
I grab Misha and start running.
Because there's no time.
Misha asks, even though I didn't explain anything,
"…Don't tell me a rift opened?"
"Yeah."
Just like my life, another shitty thing has happened.
Of course, it's not the kind of shitty thing that threatens my life.
But…
'Damn it, how much did I spend?'
I chose a rift to enter and bought items accordingly.
I even enchanted everything with the lightning attribute, feeling excited.
But what the hell is this?
"Bjorn! Over there!"
Some bastard ruined my plan.
Is it a player?
Or just someone who knows a lot about this world?
Well, I'll get a sense of it once we enter.
Whoosh!
A portal forms in the direction Misha pointed.
By now, thousands of portals must have been generated throughout the 1st floor.
"Misha!"
I pull Misha close and hug her, just in case we get separated.
And I step into the portal.
______________________
「Character has entered the 1st Floor Rift.」
______________________
Kwaaang!
I land with a heavy thud and put Misha down.
And I immediately check the surroundings.
It seems like we barely made it as the last ones, as there are already three men and women inside the rift.
I examine them one by one.
"Oh, a barbarian and a beastman, that's reassuring already. Nice to meet you, please call me Kalson."
First, a human man.
He's about 170 centimeters tall and uses a sword.
If I were to describe his first impression as an animal…
Hmm, I think a rat would be appropriate.
"…I won't be a burden. I'm Avman Urikfrit."
Second, a beastman man.
Judging by the round ears on top of his head, he seems to be from the Black Bear tribe, one of the seven major tribes.
His defining features are his muscular build and his giant crossbow that resembles a siege weapon.
"Hello, I'm Jensia Nayfrin. I use this sword as my weapon. I'll try my best not to be a burden."
Lastly, a human woman.
She's about 165 centimeters tall and has a pretty face.
And surprisingly, she has black hair in twin tails.
It doesn't look bad on her, but I never thought I would actually see someone with this hairstyle.
Anyway, since it's our turn, I introduce myself as the representative.
"I'm Bjorn, son of Thor, and this is Michelle. As you can see, we're a team."
"Huh?"
What do you mean, 'huh'?
When I give her a look that says 'stay quiet', Misha purses her lips as if she understands. And she relaxes her eyes and stares into space.
…Is that her poker face?
It's obviously strange, so I lead the conversation before anyone notices.
"I'm the main tank in the labyrinth, and I'm most confident in that role. What are you guys good at?"
When entering a rift, it's the most basic procedure to check each other's strength.
"I'm good with swords! Ah, and I've absorbed the Goblin Archer's essence, and I received training as a scout when I was young, so I'm somewhat knowledgeable about traps and mechanical devices."
The woman named Jensia explains herself in more detail.
Goblin Archer's essence, not even Goblin Swordsman?
I think to myself, 'what kind of shitty essence is that?' as soon as I hear it, but it's not something to worry about too much.
She's not a character I'm raising.
And besides, just by looking at her equipment, I can tell she's a newbie.
"I mainly use a sword and shield. That… Mr. Bjorn? Anyway, although I'm not as good as you, I usually take the role of receiving attacks in the front lines when I'm in a team."
Sword and shield warrior, Kalson, is better than Jensia, but ultimately similar.
Maybe mid-2nd floor level?
Still, judging by the fact that he didn't reveal his essence like the woman earlier, he seems to have more experience.
Well, or maybe he just hasn't absorbed any.
'Two newbies besides the powerful one, huh…'
Well, I kind of expected it.
The situation is different from when I met Hikurod and Raven. It's only been three months since the rift opened, so the method of waiting beforehand is impossible.
And it opened on the first day, so this is as good as it gets. Otherwise, the place would be swarming with locals who haven't even reached the 2nd floor.
'In that sense, it's still suspicious.'
I turn my gaze to the last member.
But did he take it as a sign to hurry up and introduce himself?
"As you can see."
The macho bear-like man with a beard and muscles shrugs his massive crossbow.
He's the only experienced explorer among the three.
I ask directly, like a barbarian,
"I'd like you to tell me clearly how reliable you are."
"Shouldn't you tell me first?"
Uh, that's true.
"I'm a 6th-grade, and Michelle is a 7th-grade explorer. We used to operate on the 4th floor."
"I see, I'm 5th-grade."
Damn it, he's not just experienced, he's high-ranking.
Generally, 6th-grade is considered experienced, 5th-grade is high-ranking, and 4th-grade is top-tier.
That's because the gap between ranks widens significantly from 6th grade onwards, and the guild even conducts promotion evaluations.
Tsk, this is getting even more suspicious.
"Why is a 6th-grade explorer here?"
"The same goes for you."
Geez, this man doesn't let a single word go.
"…We used to be in a team, but due to some circumstances, we entered as a duo. We haven't been able to reach the 2nd floor yet because we don't have a scout, but we entered because a rift opened."
It's an answer I prepared to give if anyone was suspicious when I opened the rift.
However…
"That's a coincidence. I'm similar. Well, it's been a while since I left my original team."
Phew, damn it.
'Is he lying or telling the truth?'
I wonder if there really is an archer who's tough enough to solo, but looking at that macho man's face, it's believable.
'Still, I should be most careful of this man.'
I designate the bear-like man as my number one target for suspicion.
His strength is one thing, but the circumstances are all suspicious.
'In the first place, if it weren't for this man, there's no one else who would be able to go to the 2nd floor and mine 8th-grade magic stones at this time.'
Of course, that's just based on the information that's been revealed so far.
Kalson and Jensia…
…or 'Jenson' for short… might be hiding their true strength.
"Ah, but who entered first?"
I ask casually, as if out of curiosity.
Who opened the rift?
If they're not all in cahoots, this one question should reveal the truth.
But…
"Who knows? I think we all entered together…"
"It was too simultaneous to say who was first."
"You're worried about strange things."
As expected, I'm not allowed to exploit the system.
Phew, damn it.
This is like a game of Mafia.
_______________________
Someone opened the rift.
With this, my plan has gone awry in many ways.
First of all, there's the loot distribution issue.
"Alright, then it's decided."
After some discussion, it's agreed that Misha, the bear-like man, and I will each get three shares, and Kalson and Jensia… or 'Jenson' for short… will split one share.
The world of explorers is ruthless.
"It's not that bad of a deal. We'll give you all the remaining essences."
"Yes…"
It's the classic 'pulling the ladder up after you'.
It's the same thing I did to the dwarf and Raven in the Crimson Fortress.
For reference, I was also planning to do that.
Because what would I gain by being generous and considerate in this situation?
'Tsk, he's surprisingly kind despite his appearance. I was going to keep all the magic stones too.'
My plan was to open the rift around Day 3.
And then I was going to monopolize everything and make the 1st-floor locals clean up the leftovers.
But the bear-like man variable appeared, and I had to make significant concessions in the distribution.
Although Misha is supposed to absorb the guardian's essence…
…if a Numbered Item or a Rift Stone drops, I have to roll dice with the bear-like man.
'Ha, I'm not confident in dice rolls.'
My stomach already hurts.
It's not that I think I'll lose, but I don't think I'll win either.
That's why I was trying to avoid the variable of dice rolls…
"Then let's get going."
I push aside my lingering thoughts and move forward.
Behind me, 'Jenson' is on either side, then the bear-like man, and finally Misha at the back.
Crackle.
I hear a cracking sound with every step I take, as if we're walking on thin ice.
It's not an inaccurate description.
We're currently crossing a frozen lake.
That's the only blessing in disguise.
'At least we can use the items we prepared.'
There are four 1st-floor rifts in total.
The monsters that appear, the difficulty level, and even the rewards vary depending on the type.
So where should we go?
After much deliberation, I chose one place, and coincidentally, it's the place where I'm walking right now.
[Glacier Cave]
It's a rift that opens when you offer the magic stone of an 8th-grade monster that appears on the 2nd floor Beast's Lair at the altar.
For reference, the selection criteria was solely for Misha.
Well, I also have one essence slot left after reaching level 4, but…
'There's nothing worth absorbing.'
It's just a 1st-floor rift, after all.
Even the guardian is only 7th-grade, and they don't drop essences that suit me.
'In the first place, the reason this man readily gave up the essence must be because of that.'
Anyway, that's why it's more efficient to raise Misha for now and use her to fill the empty slot with a better essence later.
'…Wait, come to think of it, I did the same thing last time, and then Ainar left for the sanctuary…'
There's no way that will happen again… right?
"Why did you suddenly stop?"
"It's nothing."
I shake off the thought that suddenly crossed my mind and focus on my surroundings.
We've entered the rift, after all.
And there's even a mysterious mafia member, so it's not the time to be spacing out.
Swaaaaaaaaa-.
A frozen snow mountain.
Snowflakes are falling from above.
And the sunlight reflecting off the ice feels even more intense.
'It's strange to be in a place like this after always being in dark places.'
After walking for about 30 minutes, the lake area ends, and a suspicious cave appears, leading underground.
For reference, there's a monster blocking the path.
"Grooooowl!"
The 7th-grade monster, Yeti.
It's an elite monster that only appears in the 'Glacier Cave' and acts as a gatekeeper from the start.
Jensia mutters as she sees the creature letting out a threatening roar as soon as it sees us,
"Do, do we have to kill that and then go down?"
The answer comes from the bear-like man.
"I don't know what this place is like, but in rifts, the places with monsters are usually the way forward."
It's an answer that makes me nod involuntarily as a gamer.
He's getting even more suspicious…
"You two, stay behind so you don't die needlessly."
"…Is that really okay?"
'Jenson' looks at Misha and me at the bear-like man's kind consideration. Well, it would be shameless to ask them to risk their lives for just a 10% share of the magic stones.
So I just tell them to do as he says.
In the first place, it would just be annoying if they were hovering around.
"I'll go first."
The bear-like man finally takes off his giant crossbow from his back.
And…
Whoosh!
The battle begins with the firing of an arrow.
-x-X-x-
Honestly, the first thing that came to mind when I saw the bear-like man's crossbow was…
Is it actually possible to use that as a weapon?
Surprisingly, the answer is yes.
Whoosh!
Contrary to my doubts, the bear-like man skillfully loads the crossbow with an arrow and shoots, aiming precisely for the head.
However…
"Tsk, it blocked it."
The Yeti avoids instant death by blocking the arrow with both hands.
Of course, it's literally just avoiding instant death.
Its both hands are skewered by the arrow.
The Yeti groans and tries to pull them out, but the arrows don't budge.
It doesn't seem like the arrows are anything special…
'Could it be [Grappling Arrow]?'
There's a skill that comes to mind, but I'm not sure.
And it's not something to think about now.
[Kiiiiiiik!!]
The Yeti charges towards us, stomping its feet.
Since both of its hands are disabled, it doesn't look particularly threatening.
But what's this?
"You guys take care of the rest."
The bear-like man slings the crossbow back onto his back as if he's finished his job.
He could finish it off with just one more arrow, but the reason he's acting like this is probably because he doesn't want to work for free.
'Is it because he's an explorer? He's really calculating.'
To prevent any objections to the loot distribution later, I also grab my shield and charge forward.
"…What the hell is he doing!"
I hear Kalson exclaiming in surprise.
It must seem impossible for even a barbarian to block such a monster head-on.
But that's only for ordinary barbarians.
I form a wall with my shield and stop the Yeti's charge.
Kwaaang!
A heavy impact is applied, but this much is nothing.
Since I absorbed the Orc Hero's essence, there's almost no chance of me being overpowered in terms of strength. And besides, the Yeti is only about 1 meter taller than me.
「Character takes cold damage from [Chills].」
My bones feel cold, but it's not painful.
"Michelle!"
"Ah, yes!"
Misha, who was momentarily frozen, steps on my shoulder and jumps.
And with the sword she's now proficient in…
Thump!
…she stabs both of the Yeti's eyes from bottom to top.
Unlike the dagger she used before, the sharp blade is enough to pierce through the Yeti's brain.
Thud!
The Yeti collapses to the ground with a heavy thud and disappears into light.
「Killed Yeti. EXP +3」
Unfortunately, no essence drops.
Tsk, if it had dropped, I would have fed it to Misha right away.
'A dud to start with, huh.'
Excluding the guardian, there are only five monsters left whose essences are suitable for Misha.
"Huh? Why are you looking at me like that? Di, did I do something wrong?"
…One of them will drop, right?
_______________________
"You two have good synergy."
We resume our journey after the bear-like man's brief comment. We enter the ice cave and proceed in formation, defeating countless 9th-grade monsters, 'Frost Wolves'.
Because that's all there is in this area.
「Killed Frost Wolf. EXP +1」
Anyway, Misha and I did most of the work here.
Well, the bear-like man also killed wolves with his crossbow…
…but it wasn't comparable to Misha and me.
'He has high single-target damage, but no AoE?'
We continue to analyze the bear-like man as we navigate the cave, and the first chapter comes to an end.
For reference, it took exactly 6 hours to get here.
Because we had to wander around a lot.
'…It didn't appear here either.'
Actually, if I had taken the lead, we could have cleared this chapter in 1 hour. Because the terrain features are the same as the underground prison in the Crimson Fortress.
'Left, left, right, right, left, 7 consecutive straights, left…'
Pillars appear at regular intervals.
If you use them to navigate, it's easy to find your way.
But I didn't do that on purpose to test them.
'There's no way this guy, who even knows how to open rifts, wouldn't have memorized this simple pattern.'
It seems like it's one of two things.
Either the mafia member is not a player…
…or he's pretending not to know.
'Well, if we keep observing him, he'll eventually slip up.'
Anyway, we move on to the second chapter.
"This cave feels kind of creepy…"
We descend further underground via an ice staircase that appeared at the end of the cave. Even during this process, I'm carefully observing the party's actions.
There's a hidden piece here.
It's nothing special, but if you destroy the third pillar, you get an elixir. It's an item that increases cold resistance once when consumed.
'He's not even taking this…'
We pass the point and descend all the way down the stairs, but no one does anything suspicious.
'Well, even if he knows, he wouldn't do something so obvious. He can just come back and take it by himself after everything is over.'
I decide not to underestimate my opponents.
After all, it's always better to assume that your enemies are stronger than they seem.
Well, at least that's how I am.
"We've come down quite far, but it's surprisingly bright."
Kalson murmurs from behind me.
I feel the same way.
The ice walls emit a white light as if the entire cave is made of transparent glass.
"It's kind of pretty."
"Yeah, yeah, right? I thought so too."
"Uh, but what's that?"
Jensia, who was having a conversation with Misha on a topic that I can't relate to, points to one spot.
It's a huge cavern that we encountered after descending the stairs.
A totem-like object is clearly visible in the center.
"Ah! It's glowing after I touched it."
"Step back, it could be dangerous."
"Ah, yes!"
Jensia is flustered, as if she made a mistake. The bear-like man chuckles.
"What are you surprised about? It seems like that's the key."
"Key?"
"Well, a few monsters will appear, and then the path will open up."
Once again, the bear-like man shows his gamer-like way of thinking.
And he's not wrong.
There are a few things to correct, but…
「A tyrant who has been sealed for a long time awakens.」
…in this chapter, it's not just a few monsters that appear, but the final boss monster itself.
Of course, trash mobs swarm out first, but…
Drrdrdrdrdr.
The entire space vibrates and starts showering ice dust. And soon, a deafening howl echoes throughout the area.
[Groaaaaaaaaaar—!!]
It's a roar that's as intimidating as a Floor Master's.
「Ancient beasts, sensing the presence of the tyrant, awaken from their long slumber.」
Clang!
The ice walls that were surrounding us start to peel off one by one, releasing beasts.
"Grrr…"
The beasts slowly rise, as if they're still weak from being thawed.
"Wh, what should we do?"
"Huh, I didn't expect it to be like this."
Anyway, while the bear-like man is muttering coolly, I give the order.
"Let's head towards the stairs. There are no walls there."
"Right, that's a good idea."
The bear-like man agrees with my opinion.
And the battle begins.
In the first wave, about twenty Frost Wolves appear, and from the second wave onwards, 8th-grade monsters also start appearing little by little.
[Kyaaaak—!]
Sabertooth Tigers, Wormstones, which I already gained experience points from in the Beast's Lair, and Ice Golems, which only appear here.
"I feel like my body is moving slowly…!"
"Oh, it's not just me?"
Since it's a monster that emits a slowing aura that stacks over time, I smash them with my mace as soon as they appear.
「Killed Ice Golem. EXP +2」
In the first place, it's a rift that Misha and I came prepared to clear on our own, so there's no real danger.
Well, 'Jenson' might have had to risk their lives, but…
Still, it's better than having to deal with another wave before we can even finish them off.
'It's a pain in the ass if you start falling behind, but it's a fairly manageable chapter otherwise.'
We reach the ninth wave after about 30 minutes.
And a Yeti appears once again.
Of course, it's different from the one we encountered at the beginning.
Back then, it was just a gatekeeper, but this time, it's more like a mid-boss level, I guess?
[Kroooo-!!]
A Yeti appears along with lower-level monsters.
The difficulty level increases several times just from that, but the one appearing this time is a 'higher variant'.
In simpler terms, it's a named monster.
For reference, named monsters have higher intelligence, individual names, and their own unique history…
…and they use other monsters' abilities.
「Lord of the Snowfields, Katumba, has cast [Suppression].」
This Yeti's additional skill is the Stone Golem's [Suppression].
It's the same one I was hit with by those marauder bastards before.
The way to counter it is simple.
"Keuheok! I, it's happening again…! Everyone be careful! That bastard is using something strange… Keugh!"
Either get beaten up by surrounding mobs every time you stop, like Kalson…
"Ugh."
…or bite your tongue to induce bleeding, like Misha was told to do beforehand.
Or…
「Character's Magic Resistance is above a certain threshold.」
「Completely resists the effect.」
…have the Magic Resistance stat.
[Suppression] is an OP ability that temporarily incapacitates you, so it's relatively easy to counter.
Well, that's why it's an 8th-grade monster, I guess.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
I use [Wild Release] to increase my aggro and charge forward.
I don't care that 'Jenson' is half-dead.
If I can't defeat this guy before the next wave, even I will be in trouble.
「Character takes cold damage from [Chills].」
As I stand in the center, the Yeti… Katumba, was it?
Anyway, this bastard and all sorts of trash mobs start clinging to me.
But I focus solely on Katumba.
It's because the 9th and 8th-grade monsters are just tickling me at this point, and…
"Why are you doing that again alone!"
…Misha, whose pronunciation has become even worse from biting her tongue, is also following me and taking care of the surrounding mobs.
With her twin swords, it looks like she's performing a sword dance—.
「Lord of the Snowfields, Katumba, has cast [Blizzard].」
Was it because I was momentarily distracted?
I couldn't dodge or block the blizzard he spat out.
My skin stings because I don't have cold resistance, but…
'The rest of me is fine.'
Since my body regenerates in real-time, it seems like I haven't reached the [Frostbite] status. I engage in close combat with the Yeti even more aggressively.
That's when…
"Run if you don't want to die."
The bear-like man whispers to me…
…and my instincts tell me to listen to his warning.
Tadat.
The moment I push off the ground and create distance…
Whoosh!
…an arrow is shot.
And…
Kwaaang!
It explodes in a burst of flames as it pierces the Yeti's head.
The radius is about 3 meters.
It's not a very wide range compared to the AoE spells Raven used…
"Wh, what kind of arrow is that?!"
…but all the monsters within the radius are dead.
Therefore, I revise the information I've been gathering about the bear-like man.
I thought he was a single-target burst damage dealer…
「Higher Variant Kill Bonus. EXP +1」
…damn it, you had it after all.
AoE.
_______________________
Thanks to the bear-like man's AoE…
…which I'm not even sure is actually AoE, but anyway…
…the ninth wave ends easily.
And thanks to that…
"Es, essence!"
…we have a settlement time a bit earlier than expected.
We can pick up the magic stones later, but not the essence, right?
"Two essences at once, that's a good start."
The bear-like man doesn't show much interest in the essences.
He just says we can split them among ourselves?
I feel the same way.
At least halfway.
"You two can decide what to do with that red one."
I'm not interested in the essence of who-knows-whether-it's-a-Frost-Wolf-or-a-Sabertooth-Tiger.
But…
"We'll take this one."
A blue essence is floating in the spot where the Yeti was standing before it died.
Kalson asks in a stuttering voice,
"Is, is that the Yeti's essence?"
"Yes, do you have a problem with that?"
"N, no way. No."
As if giving up his greed, Kalson waves his hands exaggeratedly and steps back.
Although his eyes seem a bit disappointed…
Well, if you're upset, get stronger, right?
It's a world where strength is invincible and divine.
"Then there's no problem."
I then call Misha.
But did she misunderstand something again?
"Congratulations, Bjorn. You're going to get even stronger!"
"What are you talking about? This is yours."
"Huh? Yo, you're giving this to me…?"
Misha, who was offering congratulations with a sincere expression, freezes.
And she asks cautiously,
"I'm not saying I don't want it, no, I actually really want it… but I'm just asking in case, so don't misunderstand?"
"Go ahead."
"…How much do I have to pay for this?"
Does she think I'm some kind of evil boss?
-x-X-x-
7th-grade monster, Yeti.
This guy's essence has some pretty decent stats.
[Yeti]
Strength +10, Agility +10, Bone Density +15, Cold Resistance +25, Cold Affinity +15
First of all, it has double stats, which are considered 1st tier, and Bone Density and Cold Resistance are also defensive stats classified as higher tier.
But to have Cold Affinity on top of that?
'This should last for a few years at least.'
Affinity is a core stat for elemental damage dealers like Misha.
Just like how high Strength increases physical damage…
…the Affinity stat provides a bonus to the power of the corresponding element.
'As expected, she's lucky.'
I felt it in the Witch's Forest too, but Misha is the complete opposite of me.
No matter what she does, things go smoothly, you know?
Just look at how the Yeti's essence dropped, and in blue at that.
(P) Chills – All attacks deal additional cold-attribute damage, and the target's Cold Resistance decreases upon taking damage.
Leaving aside the passive, which is common regardless of color…
(A) Cold Condensation – Temporarily greatly increases Cold Affinity.
Exactly what I wanted dropped among the Yeti's active skills. [Cold Burst] isn't bad either, but in terms of potential, this one is unmatched.
'Tsk, if only the base stats were better, it would be a graduation-level essence.'
[Cold Condensation] shines even more in the later stages of the game.
Well, because of the problem of having too low stat bonuses, you have to remove it eventually in the later stages, but…
'It would have been much better if Yeti were a 5th-grade monster…'
This game has a frustratingly good balance in these aspects.
That's when…
"Ho, how much is it…"
"Huh?"
"Ho, how much is it that you're taking so long?!"
What the, she's still doing this?
"As you know, I spent a lot of money this time, so I don't have that much…"
At this point, I'm starting to wonder what's wrong with her, but when I think about it, it's understandable.
The way explorers distribute essences is that ruthless.
When an essence drops, they first look for someone who wants to absorb it.
And if an owner is found, they pay the other party members based on the average price listed by the guild.
However…
'It's a pain in the ass when there's no buyer among the team members.'
There are times when there's no buyer not because no one needs it, but because they can't afford the price of the essence.
No, in fact, this is the most common case.
But even in those cases, they wait 30 minutes until the essence naturally disappears and then resume the exploration.
'They never do anything that benefits others for free.'
That's the kind of people explorers are.
However, Misha is lucky this time too.
"Don't worry about money. That kind of distribution is only for people who are going to part ways after a few encounters."
"Is, is that so?"
I'm a barbarian who knows how to invest for the future.
For the sake of my safe exploration life, Misha needs to become a better damage dealer.
"Then I'll absorb it…?"
"Why do you keep looking at me? Just absorb it already."
"Uh, I'm really absorbing it?"
Geez, how many times do I have to say it?
Misha, who has been an explorer for a long time, seems uncomfortable receiving something for free.
"What are you hesitating for? It's enough for me that you'll continue to stay by my side."
"Th, thanks for saying that… but… ah, I don't know. I'm really absorbing it!!"
Despite her confident declaration, Misha cautiously reaches out towards the essence.
「The essence of [Yeti] seeps into Misha Kaltstein's soul.」
The essence, emitting a blue light, is absorbed into Misha's body.
"…Is it because it's been 2 years? It feels really strange."
"You'll get used to it soon."
I decide to explain the details of the Yeti essence to her later when we have time and turn around to look at the 'Jenson' group.
It seems like they've finished their discussion too…
"What did you decide to do with that one?"
Kalson answers cautiously at my question,
"We… decided not to absorb it."
It's a slightly unexpected outcome.
They're going to discard an essence that dropped?
And they're newbies?
"That's… it seems like Jensia saw the essence dropping from a Frost Wolf."
"So?"
"If it's a Frost Wolf… I judged that it's not a suitable essence for me."
So that's how it is.
I observe Kalson's expression closely and ask,
"Do you know anything about Frost Wolves?"
9th-grade monster, Frost Wolf.
Although it's low-ranked, it can only be encountered after reaching the 6th floor, excluding rifts, so information about it is not well-known.
But for a 1st or 2nd-floor explorer to know about this?
It's not impossible, but it's definitely not common.
"I… I don't know much, but it's a 9th-grade essence, isn't it? And there might be better essences that drop later…"
"…I see."
Although it's a bit suspicious, there's nothing wrong with his answer.
If it were outside, it might be different…
But this is a rift, where the essence drop rate is ridiculously high. It would be a waste to fill an essence slot with a 9th-grade essence when you only have one slot.
"Ah, of course, I meant we would take any leftovers, not that we have any other intentions."
"I know, so there's no need to make excuses."
After finishing Kalson's interview, it's Jensia's turn.
"Are you the same as this guy?"
"Yes… I only have one slot too, so I want to be a bit more careful…"
Careful, huh.
It doesn't seem like something a swordsman who absorbed the Goblin Archer's essence should be saying…
"That… it costs a lot of money to remove essences, right? So I don't want to make the same mistake this time…"
So she learned a lesson from her past mistake.
This makes it hard to say anything else.
"I'm sorry. You went through the trouble of giving it up for us."
In the end, both interviews end without any significant findings.
It's quite disappointing.
'Tsk, I thought I would be able to identify at least one of them for sure.'
If someone had decided to absorb this essence, I was planning to remove them from the suspect list.
But…
In the end, neither of them absorbed it, and their answers were flawless.
'Damn it, they're not all in cahoots, are they?'
While considering the worst-case scenario, I end my contemplation.
Because it's almost time for the final wave to begin.
"By the way… is this really the end?"
Jensia mutters in an anxious voice.
And at that moment…
Crackle, crackle-
The extra time we gained from quickly defeating the Yeti mid-boss comes to an end, and the final wave of the second chapter begins.
The area is about four times larger than before, with the nine layers of ice walls shattered.
"There he is!"
A beast about 3 meters in diameter appears as the ceiling, which was cracked like a spiderweb, collapses.
[Groaaaaaaaaaar—!!]
Grayish-white fur covers its body.
A mane runs along its spine and covers its neck.
It's a 7th-grade monster that walks on two legs and specializes in tearing enemies to shreds with its sharp claws.
"…Lycanthrope!"
Lycanthrope.
The bear-like man questions Misha's shout.
"Isn't it too big for a Lycanthrope? What's with that club in its hand?"
It's a valid question.
If you don't know that this guy is the final boss of the rift we entered…
…the guardian of the Glacier Cave, Tyrant Tarunbas.
"We should be careful."
The bear-like man, perhaps instinctively sensing that it's not an easy opponent, warns me for the first time, looking nervous.
Of course, I roughly ignore him.
Because although it's the final boss…
…we won't be fighting him for a while.
"Eek, be careful!"
Everyone focuses their attention and prepares for what's to come, seeing the appearance of this clearly unusual monster.
And that's when…
「Tyrant Tarunbas is enraged upon discovering intruders.」
「Tyrant Tarunbas casts [Ice Crush].」
The bastard slams his club onto the ground.
Kwaaang!
A huge impact that makes the entire area tremble.
Just like the ceiling before, cracks spread across the floor like a spiderweb…
"Uh, uh?"
"Bjo, Bjorn!!"
"…The floor is collapsing!"
…and we fall as the ground collapses.
"Uwaaaaaak!!"
It's time to move on to the third chapter.
___________________
「Character has entered a special area.」
「Field effect – Glacier Cave is applied.」
「Status effect [Hypothermia] is applied.」
「Agility is greatly reduced, and cold damage taken is doubled.」
___________________
"Puh!"
I surface and take a deep breath that I've been holding back, then stagger towards the ground and lie down.
Curses escape my lips involuntarily.
'Damn reality patch.'
In the game, you just had to wait for the loading screen.
Although your HP decreased significantly, the third chapter started with you already out of the water.
But what about in reality?
'I thought I was going to die.'
There was an underground water vein flowing where we fell.
And it was very strong.
We were swept away by the current and crashed into things here and there as we rode the rapids, and when I came to my senses, I was being thrown down a waterfall.
'So that's why my HP decreased.'
My whole body aches from crashing into things at every turn.
Although I desperately want to just rest for a while…
…as expected, resting doesn't suit my destiny.
"Bjo, Bjorn! Are you okay? Come to your senses… wh, what should we do? Ah! We, we have that thing!"
I open my eyes because it's noisy, and Misha's face is right in front of me. I push her chin away with one hand and get up.
"Keut! What are you doing!!"
That's what I should be saying.
"It's not Bjorn, it's Bjorn."
I whisper quietly so that only Misha can hear and then quickly check the surroundings.
"Urgh! Bleugh!"
First, I see Kalson retching and vomiting water.
"Are you okay?"
Next, I see Jensia patting his back gently.
And the bear-like man…
"I'm freezing to death."
…is warming himself by the bonfire that I don't even know when he lit.
He gestures as our eyes meet.
"Come here if you've come to your senses."
"Thanks."
"Wow, you even carry firewood around?"
"When you travel alone, you can't help but prepare everything."
Was he telling the truth about soloing?
I don't know, but for now, I go to the bonfire and dry my clothes and body. After a while, 'Jenson' also comes and quietly huddles up.
"…Do you happen to know where that Lycanthrope went?"
Kalson asks, shivering from the cold, and the bear-like man answers curtly,
"How would we know? It's not like we studied beforehand. Don't bother me while I'm resting."
"Ah, yes… I apologize."
Afterwards, we have time to reorganize and rest.
Everyone takes off their clothes and equipment and hangs them near the bonfire, and we have a simple meal.
However…
"It's, it's strangely cold."
Even though our bodies are mostly dry and we're continuously warming ourselves by the bonfire, the cold doesn't go away.
It's better than when we were completely soaked, but it's like we can't get warm beyond a certain point.
The bear-like man finally comes to a conclusion.
"It seems like this is a special area."
"Special area…?"
"Ah! Are you talking about a place like the Witch's Forest?"
"Yeah, the cold is one thing, but it's not normal for our bodies to be this stiff."
"Hmm, is it that cold? I don't really feel it…"
Misha tilts her head as she looks at us shivering in front of the bonfire.
She's not trying to be deceitful, she's being sincere.
It's because her cold resistance is much higher than ours.
'She must have received much less of a penalty too.'
Misha made a contract with the Ice Beast Skadi.
And it was even the 'Enhancement type', which has the biggest stat bonus.
And now that she's absorbed the Yeti's essence…
'Her Cold Resistance must be 40.'
40 is not a low number in [Dungeon and Stone].
Even my Pain Resistance is only 70.
Leaving aside damage reduction, with that much, you wouldn't feel the cold easily.
"…Is it really cold?"
"It's fine. It's cold, but it doesn't hurt."
"Uh, I don't understand…"
It's exactly what I said.
Although I'm shivering from the cold, it doesn't feel like pain.
However, did my answer make her feel even more sorry for me?
"Whew, you stupid barbarian."
Misha sighs and approaches me.
And she offers a ridiculous suggestion, flapping the rolled-up blanket that she's using instead of her drying clothes.
"Come in here, you'll feel a bit better."
…What is she talking about?
"Whew."
The bear-like man whistles, so it seems like I'm not the strange one.
______________________
The preparation time takes longer than expected.
It takes a long time to dry all our clothes and equipment…
"It's gotten quite late."
…and it's already been over 12 hours since we entered the rift.
Since we entered the rift around 7:00 PM, it means we haven't slept for a total of 31 hours.
"Um… there don't seem to be any monsters here, so how about we all get some sleep?"
In the end, everyone agrees to Kalson's suggestion and decides to get some shut-eye, even if it's just for a short while.
"We'll go over there and sleep separately."
"It'll be cold."
"We carry emergency firewood, you see."
"If that's the case, do as you please."
Sleeping around the same bonfire is a bad idea, so we go to a secluded spot far away and light a new bonfire.
For reference, we also decide to take turns keeping watch.
Although our sleep time will be halved because of that…
…I prefer sleeping a little while alive than sleeping soundly after dying.
"Bjorn, go to sleep first."
"Wait a moment, there's something I need to talk about."
"Talk about?"
Since it's a rare opportunity for just the two of us to be alone, we put sleep aside and catch up.
The first topic is about essences.
She needs to know what she absorbed so that she can use it well in actual combat.
"Wow, you memorized all that?"
"It's nothing special. Anyway, listen carefully from now on."
After reciting the essence information according to this world's standards, I lower my voice even further and continue,
"While we were coming here, did any of those three act suspiciously?"
I intentionally positioned Misha at the very back.
The superficial reason was to keep an eye on the rear until a battle broke out in the front…
…but it was mainly to monitor the party members.
Since she's following at the very back, she should have a good view of the others' actions.
"Hmm, suspicious behavior? I don't think so."
"I see. That's good enough. If possible, please keep an eye on them a bit more carefully from now on."
"Got it."
After finishing our conversation, I get into my blanket and lie down.
And I retrace the words and actions of Kalson, Jensia, and the bear-like man, wondering if I missed anything.
I've been observing their every move today. I kept dropping hints in casual conversations and gathering clues.
As a result, I was able to identify the most likely suspect.
But…
'As expected, there's no decisive evidence.'
It's still not enough to conclude that he's the mafia.
I just need one more clue…
As my thoughts spiral and I gradually drift off to sleep…
"Um, Bjorn."
Misha shakes my shoulder gently.
"Now that I think about it, there's something strange…"
Although I'm tired, I listen attentively to her story.
And…
"Good job, Misha."
"Oh, was it helpful?"
"Of course."
More than just helpful.
The final piece of the puzzle has finally fallen into place.
I look towards the bear-like man's bonfire and grin.
'I was wondering which one of the three it was.'
As expected, it was you, Mafia.