She used to think that all her worries would disappear if she could just make a contract with a Spirit Beast.
But reality was different.
[So it's the Glacier Beast, Skadi.]
Her father's cold voice and indifferent gaze remained the same. He just didn't say it directly like before.
[Have you told anyone about this?]
[Uh, no…]
[Good. For now, let's keep it between you and me.]
It wasn't a request, but a notice.
[Ye, yes…]
Misha could only nod without saying anything.
Because she felt guilty.
She didn't make the contract through proper means. She used a strange ring called the Frost Spirit Ring to cheat her way into a contract.
If her father knew about this…
'…then this treatment would be natural.'
Of course, she didn't have the courage to ask.
To her, her father was the most fearsome being.
That's why she agreed when her father asked when she would bring that barbarian to the mansion.
Well, she didn't mention it to Bjorn at all.
'Yeah, this is something I have to overcome on my own.'
She had already received an insurmountable favor.
She shouldn't burden him any further.
Although she tried to rationalize it like that, her true feelings hidden deep inside were different.
'I don't want him to find out.'
She didn't want to reveal her situation.
Hikurod, Dwarkey, Rotmiller…
She could endure it even if they found out… but she wanted to appear as if she was doing well, at least to Bjorn.
So she visited her family often.
[I need to leave now. I have to stop by my family's place today.]
She tried her best.
The gazes of her siblings who wondered why she was visiting so often, the contemptuous gazes of the servants, and the lonely atmosphere of being left alone like an island during dinner…
…she faced them head-on.
'I shouldn't run away anymore.'
She learned from Bjorn.
That you can't achieve anything by running away.
A month, two months, three months passed.
[Is he still not coming?]
Her father's pressure to bring Bjorn intensified. She made excuses, saying that he wasn't willing, but her father already seemed to know it was a lie.
Judging by the condition he offered…
[Bring him within this month. Then I'll reconsider your treatment. Do you understand?]
…it meant that he would acknowledge her contract with the Spirit Beast within the family and treat her as a proper child.
She didn't know why he was so eager to meet Bjorn.
However, Misha decided to invite him.
It felt a bit like she was using him…
'But it's fine if I repay him by working harder.'
She thought that maybe she could finally stand tall in front of Bjorn if she received her family's support. And there was also a slight calculation that if she received the Kaltstein family's support, it would be helpful to his journey.
[Alright.]
[…What? Really? Are you serious? Wow! No take-backs!]
[Enough, what time should we go tomorrow?]
Contrary to her worries, Bjorn readily agreed.
However, her joy was short-lived as anxiety soon arose.
Once she went to the mansion, she wouldn't be able to hide her situation any longer.
What should she do?
If Bjorn caused a scene there, it would definitely get out of hand.
But…
'…It's just my ego! Ego!'
Misha chuckled and dismissed her anxiety.
Because Bjorn is a warrior who can be both hot-headed and cold-hearted.
At the sanctuary of another race…
…and in the heart of a pureblood family…
…he wouldn't do something like that.
They're not even blood-related.
There's no way he would take such a risk and make enemies with the Kaltstein family.
'Yeah, yeah, impossible. What am I to him…'
Misha organized her thoughts like that.
Her heart ached as if acknowledging it, but dreams and reality are different.
She knows that now.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
Her tail stood on end at the ferocious roar.
It was only natural.
The servant seemed bewildered, but…
…she knew, having practically lived with him.
"You must have a problem with your head."
Those words…
…meant that he wanted to smash his head!
____________________
"Are you crazy?! Do, don't do that! Why are you acting like this all of a sudden?!"
Misha flinched and grabbed my arm, then quickly looked around to see if anyone else had heard the commotion.
Seeing that, I felt sorry for her.
'It's like looking at my past self in elementary school.'
Compromise and consideration. Putting other people's feelings first and constantly erasing yourself.
There was a time when I thought that was the natural way to be.
But…
"Why am I doing this? I just felt like it!"
"What the hell does that mean?!"
I shook off Misha's hand and said,
"Misha, it's okay to do what you want sometimes."
"Uh, huh…?"
"Why do you hold back? In the end, it's just doing favors for others."
"They're not others, they're family…"
Family my ass.
At this point, they're more like enemies.
I asked again,
"So is that family more important than your life?"
Misha kept her mouth shut.
Well, even she knows it in her head, right?
What the source of that effort, of visiting her family regularly and longing for a harmonious family, is.
"..."
It's all just wishful thinking.
Something completely useless even if she holds onto it.
The embodiment of inefficiency.
"Answer me. If you say yes, I'll stop here."
I confirmed her intention one last time, and Misha remained silent.
That was her answer to me.
"Just watch from now on. Nothing you're worried about will happen."
"Bu, but if you hurt that person—"
Right, there will be hell to pay.
It's not just about the fine, but about facing the wrath of the head of the Kaltstein family, who seems to value honor.
But…
"Misha Kaltstein, have I ever broken a promise?"
"…No."
"Right, so just trust me."
I'm not doing this recklessly.
Unreasonable Barbarian Mode shines brightest when you know when to turn it on and off.
Thud.
I take a step forward, leaving Misha behind.
The servant is still acting arrogantly.
Therefore…
"What were you two talking about? Even if you weren't taught manners—"
…I grab his neck and lift him up.
"Aren't you the one who's being rude?"
"Keu, keugh!"
"How dare you act so arrogantly, not even recognizing your master, just because you're a servant of the Kaltstein family."
"Th, that's…!"
He looks pained.
And he also has a look of disbelief in his eyes.
He must be wondering if this is a dream.
This isn't some dark back alley, and he didn't expect to be treated like this in broad daylight, right in front of the mansion gate?
"Le, let go… keugh!"
Is it because he lacks imagination?
"If, if you do this…"
He's saying something bad will happen if I do this?
Smirk.
If he knows that, then he wouldn't do this.
And if he did do it, it's more accurate to assume that he had a reason.
But to not even know this simple principle…
"You, you must have a problem with your head."
I clench my fist and put in just enough strength.
If I kill him, it will be a difficult situation to handle even for me.
"Don't worry. Most problems get fixed with a beating."
"Ugh, ugghh!!"
I tighten my grip on his neck to silence him and then gently massage a suitable spot to hit.
And I strike like flicking his forehead.
Thwack!
He faints, losing all strength in his body, with just one hit.
I check the injured area, holding his neck as if he's an object.
Blood pours from his crushed nose, but…
…this much is necessary to set an example for the future.
"...What are you planning to do now? Father won't stay silent if he finds out."
Misha, who was watching with an almost resigned expression, asks about my plans. She trusted me and stayed silent as I told her to, but it seems like she's not at ease.
"Just watch."
I lift the unconscious guy with one hand and head towards the mansion entrance. As we pass through the garden, I see the other servants.
Mowing the lawn, carrying luggage somewhere.
"…Hiik! Inform Veros quickly!"
Some of them run towards the mansion as gazes gather.
I follow them through the open door.
And…
"Stop, barbarian."
…I'm surrounded by fifteen beastmen.
Combat personnel armed from head to toe, emanating a menacing aura. The bald guy who seems to be the leader speaks as soon as I stop.
In a tone that's like an order.
"Miss Misha Kaltstein, would you please explain what's going on? Who this barbarian is, and why Brante, who's supposed to be guarding the gate, is in that state."
So his name was Brante.
"Uh, that's…"
"Misha, there's no need to explain."
I throw Brante, who's no longer useful, into the middle of them. And as soon as they flinch and catch him…
"Who the hell are you guys!!"
…I shout loudly enough to make the mansion tremble.
The beastmen all look dazed.
It's like their minds can't comprehend the situation.
"Your master invited me here. And this bastard insulted me, saying I was a fool of a barbarian!"
Misha tilts her head at my following shout.
And she whispers quietly so that only I can hear,
"Uh, did he really say that?"
She has a tendency to worry about trivial things.
If I just insist that he doesn't remember because I purposely hit him, it would be fine.
"Don't lie! There's no way Brante would do that."
The bald guy refutes, as if it's absurd, after a moment of bewilderment at my shout.
From my perspective, he's digging his own grave.
An unreasonable barbarian is immune to logical attacks.
"Lie? Are you insulting me too?"
The bald guy steps back as I take a step forward as if I'm about to attack.
It doesn't seem like he's scared of fighting.
It's probably because I'm a guest of the master.
"What's with all this commotion?!"
A man jumps down from the 2nd floor, connected to the central staircase, while the beastmen are flustered.
It's a familiar face.
It's Misha's brother, whom I met on the 3rd floor.
So, his name was…
I don't remember. Did I even hear it?
Let's put aside the trivial things and focus on the present.
"Don't tell me, you're the guest Father called."
"It's been a while."
"Forget the greetings, what's going on?"
The brother narrows his eyes and glares at me.
"If you can't explain properly, you won't be leaving unharmed, even if it's you."
Geez, he has a scary look in his eyes.
And I even saved his life.
'I don't like this guy.'
I explain the incident where I was insulted by the gatekeeper Brante, just like I did before, and then add something else.
"If I were alone, I would have endured it. But what the hell is wrong with this lunatic? How dare he insult Misha while living off the family's generosity?"
As I point to the unconscious Brante and shout, a deep wrinkle forms on the brother's forehead.
"I told them to refrain from doing that when there are outsiders."
It's a baffling reaction.
He just accepts it even though it's a made-up story?
Damn it, this place is even more messed up than I thought.
It must be something that happens on a daily basis.
I say, unable to hide my disgust,
"So you're saying you all knew and just condoned it?"
"It's an internal family matter. I have no reason to explain it to you. And you guys can go back to your positions now."
"Yes, Tailon."
The brother dismisses the guards and then turns his head back to look at me.
"Bjorn Yandel, I'll let it go this time since there was a mistake on our part."
"And?"
"…If it's true that this guy insulted you, I'll give him appropriate punishment. So be satisfied with this."
"Satisfied…"
I trail off and chuckle.
Disciplining a rude bastard…
…and further showing that I'm not someone to be messed with in front of many people.
That was my original plan.
But…
'I guess I'll have to go with Plan B.'
I grin and approach the brother.
"Do you also have a problem with your head?"
Plans always change.
-x-X-x-
The head of the Kaltstein family invited me to his mansion.
From what I heard, he's been asking for me for three months.
Then what's his reason?
The first thing that came to mind was this:
'Curiosity.'
He just wanted to meet me, his daughter's companion.
It's a plausible scenario if Misha has been accepted as a member of the family.
I also thought that he might ask me to leave his daughter alone if he found me unreliable after meeting me. Most of the family members seem to be comfortably exploring the labyrinth in large clans through their connections.
But…
[I, I just have to endure for a little longer.]
…it turned out that Misha's situation was unchanged.
That bastard of a father kept Misha's awakening a secret and didn't even try to improve her position within the family.
The moment I realized this…
…I felt a dark malice emanating from this mansion.
A malice directed not only at Misha, but also at me.
'He intentionally called me here even though he knows about this…'
What's the master's goal?
And what means did he choose to achieve it? It was all too clear.
'He's even more of a bastard than I heard.'
The master wants something from me.
But instead of setting up a negotiation table, he created this situation.
He probably calculated it like this.
Little Balkan, Bjorn, son of Yandel.
The warrior who didn't abandon his companions even when facing the Floor Master.
The barbarian who might even be in a romantic relationship with that companion.
He probably thought that I would be easier to control if I saw Misha's current state. After all, the only one who can change Misha's situation is the master.
However, based on that, I judged…
'A freeloader who doesn't hesitate to use even his own daughter, there's no dealing with him once you're underestimated.'
Plan A is not enough.
If I end it here, I'll just remain an ordinary barbarian.
Therefore…
Thud.
…I take another step forward and stare at the brother.
He's not scared of me at all.
He just laughs as if it's absurd.
"You're a greedy bastard."
He seems to think I'm throwing a tantrum because I want something else.
Well, he's not exactly wrong…
"Bjo, Bjorn…! You can't do that!!"
Misha hurriedly grabs my arm, and I stop.
Because I wasn't actually planning to hit him.
He's not just a servant of the mansion, but a direct descendant.
If I beat him senselessly, it would become a weakness.
Therefore…
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
…I shout loudly enough to be heard throughout the mansion.
The brother frowns at my action.
"What are you doing?"
"I just felt like it!"
"…You're insane."
Whatever he says…
…my shout acts as a detonator, summoning the people in the mansion.
Servants who were working on the other end of the hallway connected to the 1st floor stop what they're doing and look at us.
I subtly glance towards the 2nd floor and see young men and women in high-quality clothes.
'Are they Misha's siblings?'
I don't know, but they're looking down with interest.
'Anyway, this is enough of an audience and witnesses.'
Now that the stage is set, I end Unreasonable Barbarian Mode and speak to the brother.
"Tailon Kaltstein."
"It's Tailon, not Talon."
"You're so petty for a man."
"…Enough, what do you want to say?"
He doesn't seem interested in discussing masculinity with me, so he asks about my intentions.
I ask directly,
"Why is Misha being treated like this within the family?"
"As I said before, that's a family mat—"
"Is it because Misha is a half-breed? Because she couldn't even make a contract with a Spirit Beast even though she's a direct descendant?"
He's momentarily flustered at my words…
…and then he smirks and looks at Misha.
It's a look of contempt, as if saying 'you even told him about that?'
"I guess there's no point in hiding it since you know. Yes, what you said is true. So stop meddling in our family matters."
His words telling me to mind my own business are somewhat reasonable.
Except for us barbarians, all the other races have a culture that values bloodlines.
It's only natural for them to treat Misha like an outsider.
If she had inherited the master's blood, there's no way she wouldn't have been able to make a contract with a Spirit Beast until now.
She really isn't related to them by even a drop of blood.
Her mother, the fourth wife, didn't have any other children besides Misha.
But…
"What if you're mistaken?"
The truth doesn't matter.
What's important now is that Misha has already awakened, and that we can use this fact as a useful card.
"If Misha makes a contract with a Spirit Beast, will you apologize for what you've done and accept her as a member of the family?"
"At twenty-five years old, there's no way that would—"
"Answer me. If you answer this, I won't cause any more trouble."
The brother sighs and rubs his forehead, then speaks in an annoyed voice,
"Fine, I'll apologize if that happens."
"And accept her as a member?"
"That too."
He answers without hesitation, as if he doesn't believe it will ever happen.
I grin and nod.
"Then it's settled."
"Settled…?"
He asks back in a nervous voice at my attitude.
I turn my gaze towards Misha instead of answering.
Because my role is over.
"Misha, show them."
"Uh, uh…?"
Misha looks flustered and starts observing the surroundings as she suddenly becomes the center of attention. She then hangs her head low and mutters as our eyes meet,
"But, Father…"
So that's why she hasn't come out yet. As expected, the master must have silenced her.
But that's why Misha needs to be strong.
Revealing this fact in front of everyone will mean that one of the master's cards is gone.
"Don't worry, nothing will happen."
"…He, he won't forgive me."
"So what? Just apologize if you did something wrong. That's what families do."
"Bjorn, you might get hurt too."
"Let him. I'm not scared."
He might be a god-like father to her, but to me, he's just the leader of the beastmen.
And one that's divided into five.
"What's so scary? Family isn't everything. I've lived well without it."
Misha laughs incredulously as I say that while picking my ear.
"That's because you! No, forget it. What's the point of this?"
"Right, just ignore the trivial things. It's good for your mental health."
"Ugh, I don't know anymore. What's right and wrong."
Okay, I guess that's enough persuasion.
"Misha Kaltstein, just do what you want for once. You have a companion to help you this time, don't you?"
I don't say anything more after that.
A moment of silence passes, and Misha raises her head and slowly looks around.
Is this situation quite interesting?
All those people are just watching from afar.
Gulp.
Misha swallows.
And just as she opens her mouth, as if reaffirming her resolve…
"I—"
…a cold voice fills the vast mansion.
Misha freezes, and when she comes to her senses, a middle-aged man is standing in front of her.
"Everyone, leave."
No one speaks and they all leave at the man's single word.
The atmosphere becomes heavy and oppressive.
The man's gaze turns towards me.
Although there were no introductions, I can tell who this guy is.
'Right, this is that bastard.'
Albreniv Kaltstein.
The head of the Kaltstein family, who has inherited the position of the Red Cat tribe's chieftain for generations.
"Thank you for accepting my invitation, Bjorn, son of Yandel."
"Thank you for inviting me, Kaltstein."
We exchange formal greetings in the middle of the empty 1st-floor lobby.
"Haha, you're more polite than I expected?"
He approaches me, smiling kindly.
And instead of shaking hands, he pats my shoulder condescendingly.
But what is this?
「Character enters a [Fear] state due to [Lord of Nightmares].」
My body freezes as if I've encountered a natural enemy.
And I feel a tingling sensation in my head, the same one I felt whenever I was on the verge of life and death. I think I finally understand why Misha was so afraid of her father.
That's when…
"But why did you do that? It was rude."
The master whispers, his smile completely gone.
It's a shitty feeling.
My head knows that this is the effect of a skill, but my body won't listen.
It's like my senses are malfunctioning.
Of course, it doesn't last long.
「Character's Magic Resistance is above a certain threshold.」
「Character's Fighting Spirit is above a certain threshold.」
「Character's Mental Strength is above a certain threshold.」
「[Fear] status effect is removed.」
Whew, damn it, it's finally over.
"Hey—"
I immediately remove his hand from my shoulder as he's about to say something in an arrogant voice.
"...?"
His eyebrows furrow in confusion.
Well, if he had expected this, he wouldn't have said something so stupid.
"Why are you touching me?"
I throw his arm aside and say,
"It was rude."
You reap what you sow.
___________________
"Interesting."
After a brief silence, the master speaks.
It's creepy to hear him say that with a straight face and eyes…
But I can't lose the battle of nerves.
"You have a unique taste. I'm not finding this interesting at all."
I respond nonchalantly, pretending to be calm, and grab Misha's hand, who is frozen stiff.
The master's gaze then shifts to Misha.
"Fa, Father…"
"I never expected you to rebel against me."
"Th, that's not it…"
"Enough, you're not important anyway."
He cuts off Misha, who's trying to make excuses, and looks at me.
"I was planning to have lunch with you and then have a conversation."
Lunch my ass.
He was planning to show me how Misha is treated.
The master continues as I just stare at him without saying anything,
"I refuse."
"What?"
His expression contorts as I answer without a moment's hesitation.
I just say it bluntly,
"Why should I wait?"
Giving him time is foolish.
I came here because of Misha, but this situation wasn't part of his plan.
He was probably going to reorganize his thoughts and call for me again.
"Say what you want to say here."
"…Even for a barbarian, that's a bit rude."
"You're the one who called for this barbarian, beastman."
He didn't expect to be called a beastman instead of by his name or title.
The master's expression hardens, and killing intent emanates from him.
Not a metaphor, but literally.
'…This works in real life too?'
I'm a bit surprised, but it's still much weaker than the Fox Mask's.
Well, that was in the spiritual world.
The output itself would be different.
I pick my ear as if to tell him to stop messing around, and the master asks with genuine curiosity,
"Are you… truly not afraid of death?"
To me, it's a ridiculous question.
Not afraid of death?
Is there even such a person in this world?
"Well, I don't know about that. But you don't seem very afraid."
This is my honest opinion.
He was an 8th-floor explorer in his prime?
So if we were to fight, I would be completely destroyed?
So what?
If he kills me, our chieftain won't stay silent.
"Can you even kill me?"
I just ask him directly again.
It's that absurd of an act.
Kill me?
And me, the most promising talent of the barbarian tribe recently?
In the heart of the beastman sanctuary, where I was invited?
That would immediately trigger a repeat of the war with the fairies from 10 years ago.
That's the kind of tribe barbarians are.
"What? Hahahaha!!"
The master forces a laugh, but I can see the deep anger within it.
He must be frustrated.
He doesn't want to admit it because of his pride, but my words are true.
He's just laughing it off.
"It's only natural that things went wrong. I didn't expect you to be this cunning."
"Thanks for the compliment, but I'm getting hungry, so answer me. What do you want to say to me?"
The master looks at me for a moment as if organizing his thoughts and then opens his mouth.
"I know you used that item."
Only then are all my questions answered.
The Frost Spirit Ring.
So this is why he caused all this trouble.
-x-X-x-
What does the master truly want from me?
This has been a constant question.
I have a guess, but it's not at a level where I can be certain.
So, Plan B.
I planned to have Misha come out in front of everyone.
It's the thing the master would dislike the most in the current situation.
'Right, the best way to hinder someone is to prevent them from doing what they want to do.'
The master wanted to keep Misha's awakening a secret, both internally and externally. That's why he hurriedly appeared before Plan B could be executed.
And as a result of having a barbarian-style conversation…
…I was finally able to hear his unfiltered true intentions.
"I know you used that item."
The Frost Spirit Ring.
It's a Numbered Item that allows you to make a guaranteed contract with the Glacier Beast Skadi when you activate the hidden piece.
'It wouldn't be strange for the chieftain to know about it.'
It was a possibility I had already considered.
If he didn't think I used 'that item', there would be no reason for him to treat Misha like an outsider.
However, the master isn't certain either.
"That item? What are you talking about?"
A twenty-five-year-old Red Cat beastman.
The probability of naturally making a contract with Skadi with those conditions is practically 0%…
But 'close to' and 0 are different.
"Hmm."
So he's testing me.
He has suspicions but no evidence.
"Your acting is clumsy."
Clumsy my ass.
I've fooled countless people so far.
"What are you talking about? Speak in a way I can understand."
"I'm talking about 'that item' that allows you to make a contract with the Glacier Beast Skadi. You can't deny knowing about it, can you?"
The master stares at me with a look that says, 'don't lie, I know everything'.
Does he think barbarians are idiots?
"There's such an item? Then why didn't you give it to Misha?"
"Because it's a very valuable item. There's no way I would give it to someone who's not even my child."
As soon as I hear those words, I involuntarily look at Misha.
As expected, she looks like she's about to cry.
But I decide to comfort her later.
I continue acting like a clueless barbarian.
"Valuable item? Then it's even stranger. How could I possibly have such an item?"
"Well, maybe you obtained it by chance from that Magic Tower you frequent."
What the, damn it.
Does he really know everything?
My body stiffens involuntarily.
So I decide to glare at the master to make up for my mistake.
"…Did you even investigate me?"
Just a barbarian who's pissed off by his crossing the line.
This shouldn't make my previous action seem too awkward—
"I told you, your acting is clumsy."
Bullshit, I believe in my acting skills.
I don't budge and ask back in annoyance,
"So what is that item? What is it that you're bothering me so much for?"
"I can't tell you."
"What?"
"You keep denying it. It's an item that shouldn't be known to outsiders. If you admit it, then I'll tell you."
Huh? What?
There's no inconsistency in the master's words.
If he's just testing me, it's only natural that he can't tell me the name of the item.
But…
'Why does it feel so strange?'
I feel a strong sense of dissonance.
My intuition, honed from defeating countless bastards who tried to exploit me, is telling me that something is wrong.
"Does that item even exist? Or do you actually have another purpose?"
Therefore, I ask again.
And I focus all my senses on observing the master.
A momentary hesitation, a change in his facial muscles. Where is his gaze directed, and how does his voice sound?
"Of course it exists. What other purpose could there be?"
I observe every moment of his brief answer with suspicious eyes, although I'm not an expert.
And I instinctively realize it.
The master is lying right now.
'Ha, so this was it.'
Thanks to that, the last question I had is answered.
He could have tested me in other ways.
"Be honest. If you're keeping quiet because you're worried about this child, I'll take care of it."
Why is the master even saying these contradictory things?
Everything makes sense now.
If his goal wasn't Misha, but 'that item' itself.
'No wonder he kept saying 'that item'.'
I finally understand the situation.
The master invited me to the mansion.
Whether Misha was his real daughter or not didn't matter.
He didn't seem like the type to be very devoted to his children anyway.
He had a different goal.
An item that guarantees a contract with a Spirit Beast.
If I really knew about this item…
…he wanted to find out about it.
After all, it would be information of immeasurable value to beastmen.
So he showed me Misha's pitiful situation, which he judged to be my Achilles' heel.
He was probably planning to use it for negotiation or blackmail.
Therefore…
"I swear on my honor as a warrior, I don't know anything about such an item."
I throw out my trump card that I've been saving.
The warrior's oath, the number one reason why I chose to be a barbarian.
"...."
A look of bewilderment appears in the master's eyes.
Confirming that, I add one last blow before missing the timing.
"But I'll definitely find out what that item is. So just wait."
I mutter as if suppressing my anger and check the master's expression.
His eyes are filled with deep disappointment.
Geez, he's the worst actor here.
"Forget everything we talked about today."
I leave the Kaltstein mansion after the master's announcement. Misha has been dazed since earlier, and I don't bother talking to her.
I have things to think about.
'Phew, at least it didn't go to the worst-case scenario.'
There were two reasons why I readily agreed when I received the invitation from the Kaltstein family.
1. Misha's defection.
If the master was planning to put Misha in a large clan, I had to stop him. Erwen, Ainar, and now even Misha, whom I finally raised, leaving?
It's a horrifying thought.
2. Avoiding suspicion of being an evil spirit.
If the master knew the secret behind Misha's awakening, I had to visit at least once to explain it properly.
I didn't expect him to only know half of it and call me because of that, though.
Creak.
The gatekeeper, who recognized us, opens the main gate as we pass through the garden. The bald guy from before must have gone to rest after receiving treatment, as it's a new face.
But did he recognize me?
"Ah, goodbye."
He gives a brief bow as we make eye contact.
The mansion where Misha lived from childhood to adulthood.
The well-maintained garden is colorful, and the fountain sprays water gracefully, sparkling.
The mansion itself is no different.
It's a grand and elegant building, unlike the inn I'm staying at.
But…
…the dark malice surrounding the mansion is unchanged.
Just like when I first saw this place, it feels like I'm looking at a dungeon filled with monsters.
I realize once again…
Right, she survived in this place.
For all those years.
"You did well."
I pat her on the back and say that, and Misha comes to her senses and shakes her head.
"Ah, no. You're the one who did well…"
Hmm, that's not what I meant.
"But you must have been the one who had the hardest time."
I chuckle and pat her on the back again.
"Ack! That hurts!"
Right, now she's back to normal.
"If you've come to your senses, lead the way. I don't know the way back."
"Ha, really… what would you do without me?"
"I wouldn't have come to a place where I don't know the way."
"…That's true."
We chat idly as we walk through the beastman district.
We see heartwarming scenes everywhere.
"Daddy, look! It's that barbarian from before!"
Beastmen families are walking around, laughing and chatting happily.
"Bjorn, let's eat that too."
"Why are you buying food outside?"
"Hmm, well… because you worked hard today?"
We stop by a street vendor and buy snacks, then sit on a bench in the plaza. Although we could eat while walking…
…it wouldn't hurt to rest for a bit.
"You know, Bjorn."
"Speak."
"Why don't you ever ask?"
"Ask what?"
We rest quietly, watching the beastmen passing by, and then…
…Misha asks me a question.
"Aren't you even curious?"
"So what is it?"
"That… whether I'm really, Father's child…"
So this was it.
I chuckle and look at Misha.
Although she didn't do anything wrong, she hangs her head low and stares at the ground, as if she's the one who asked the question.
"I'm not curious."
"Really? Not at all?"
"Yeah, why would that be important?"
"Wow, you really don't care about me…"
What is she talking about?
I'm about to hit her on the back, but I stop.
'I shouldn't hurt her, right?'
I consider ruffling her hair like in a cartoon, but I stop because it's too cringe-worthy.
My hand, which lost its destination, returns to my lap.
I look away and say to Misha,
I should at least clear up the misunderstanding since she's my companion.
"It's not that I don't care, it's just that it's not important."
"Huh?"
"Misha Kaltstein, the 7th-grade explorer. That's you, isn't it? It doesn't matter who your parents are. The fact that you're a companion I can trust and rely on doesn't change."
"Wow…"
Misha opens her mouth wide as if she heard something amazing.
And she looks at me with a bright smile.
"How did you think of that?"
"…Do you want to fight?"
If that's the case, then it's a good thing.
Just as I'm about to get up after resting enough…
Misha grabs my sleeve.
"Bjorn."
"What?"
"This is a secret, I'm only telling you."
"Enough, just say it quickly."
"I… I'm actually a half-breed. My mom told me. Before she passed away. She said she was really sorry."
Ah, uh, hmm…
I contemplate how to react and then just nod.
"…I see."
"What? Why aren't you surprised?"
Because I already knew.
Although I didn't know the details.
"It's not that important, is it?"
"Ugh, you insensitive barbarian!"
We then get up from our seats.
And we leave the sanctuary and enter the city, arriving at the public transportation platform.
However, just as we're buying tickets and waiting for the carriage…
"Ah, right. What about that? You made a promise in front of Father. That… definitely…"
Misha trails off.
I'm genuinely flustered.
Maybe because she's become too comfortable, or maybe because she had a lot on her mind in front of her father…
…but I didn't even think about it.
"That… was a lie, right?"
I sigh and nod.
What's the point of hiding it when she already knows?
I just have to handle it well.
"Yeah, it was a lie. You're more important than a warrior's honor."
"…Is that true?"
"Yeah."
Misha doesn't say anything for a long time after that.
The time passes, filled with an awkward silence.
"...."
"...."
Don't tell me, she's thinking something strange?
Just as I'm thinking that I should say something first to break the suffocating silence…
"Ah!"
…Misha jumps up.
And she says something incomprehensible…
"I, I left something at home, so I'll be back!"
"…What? The carriage is coming so—"
"You go ahead!"
…and disappears in a flash.
…What?
Don't tell me, I'm fucked?
________________
Flip, flip.
Albreniv Kaltstein.
He sits in his study, flipping through the pages of a book with somewhat hurried movements.
And he finally finds the part he was looking for.
[No...]
…contract with the Glacier Beast Skadi.
It's a description where he can only read one sentence because the rest is completely torn out.
All his suspicions started from this book.
[Compendium of Artifacts VI]
This book contains descriptions of hundreds of Numbered Items.
And the important thing is that the descriptions are never wrong.
That's what the Compendium is.
A book of truth, whose value can't even be measured.
'If I hadn't known about this, I would have been genuinely happy.'
When she told me that she had awakened.
Honestly, he was happy.
He thought he wouldn't have to hide the shame of the family anymore.
[So it's the Glacier Beast, Skadi.]
The problem was the Spirit Beast she contracted with.
Could this be a coincidence?
He couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off.
So he tested her several times, and then he came to a conclusion.
She didn't awaken naturally.
If his prediction was correct, she received help.
Probably from that barbarian, Bjorn Yandel.
[I, I can't talk about anything related to Bjorn. I sw, swore to the guardian deity…]
However, she refused to talk about it, mentioning the guardian deity's oath.
It's something that has no binding power, and in this day and age where traditions have faded, it holds no meaning.
But she, who had never even properly rebelled before, lied while even making such an excuse.
It would be difficult to get a proper answer from her.
[It would be better to question that barbarian.]
He changed the direction of his investigation.
And suspicious circumstances continued to appear.
That barbarian was close to a mage from the Artemion school.
Arrua Raven.
Coincidentally, it was someone he remembered.
She was a competitor he met while searching for another 'Compendium'.
A hypothesis came to mind.
What if that mage obtained the 'Compendium of Artifacts'?
And she told the barbarian about it?
[That makes much more sense.]
He decided to target the barbarian instead of the bold mage girl. Since they seemed to be practically living together, it would be much easier if he used her.
But…
'To think it was a natural awakening.'
He wasn't fooled by the oath or anything.
That barbarian wasn't acting.
He had a genuinely clueless expression, and he felt a sense of regret for his ignorance for her sake.
'Interesting. So even that insignificant bloodline had some talent.'
Just as that thought crossed his mind, someone knocked on the door.
It was his assistant, Veros.
"Misha Kaltstein requests an audience with the master."
"Her? Let her in immediately."
After a short wait, the assistant left, and she entered.
"I… there's something I couldn't say earlier—"
"Ah, don't worry about that. I'll keep my promise. No one will think you're not a member of our family anymore."
Strangely, she didn't react at all.
He thought she would be a bit happier.
He added,
"It means you're my daughter now."
The words that she must have longed for, feeling a sense of lack and love-hate.
But it was the same this time too.
"…Why aren't you saying anything?"
"Because I didn't come here for something like that…!"
"What?"
He was genuinely surprised by her disrespectful tone.
What is this change?
Before he could even adjust, she looked him straight in the eyes.
"Father. No, you're not even my father. Don't you know? That we're not even related by a drop of blood."
"What?"
He was truly surprised.
Not because it was something he didn't know, but because it came from her mouth.
"My mother told me before she passed away. That I'm not actually of the Kaltstein bloodline. I came here to tell you that. I hate you… but I also feel sorry for you."
Was it because it was something he had never imagined?
He didn't even feel angry at her bold words.
He was just curious.
"Why are you doing this?"
He knew who Misha's biological father was.
He thought everything would be resolved if she died in the labyrinth.
But…
"If you hadn't said that, I was planning to truly accept you as a member of the family."
She's rejecting it even though she's being given what she longed for.
"Why? Why are you throwing away this opportunity?"
She turns her back on him as if it's not even worth answering and heads towards the door.
But did she have a change of heart at the last moment?
She turns her head slightly and says to him,
"I just… felt like it!"
It was a statement he couldn't understand at all.
-x-X-x-
Ten days have passed since I visited the Kaltstein residence.
On the first day, I was worried that Misha might have told her father everything…
[What?! Are you crazy?! You barbarian! How could you say something like that!!]
[Then what did you do there?]
[That's…! You don't need to know!!]
…but it was an unnecessary worry.
I don't know why she's keeping it a secret, but I could definitely feel that nothing like that happened.
I decided to focus on the immediate problem.
There are two ticking time bombs in the team.
[Dwarkey, let's talk.]
The day after returning from the Kaltstein residence, I met with Dwarkey right away.
And I spoke indirectly while drinking.
[What? Is it true? That Misha likes chubby men?]
[Yes, she definitely said that last time.]
[I, I see. Thank you for telling me. I, I almost made a mistake by being too hasty.]
For reference, Dwarkey ordered a lot of food after that conversation and stuffed himself until his stomach was bulging.
One problem solved.
'He won't confess until he gains some weight.'
We've bought at least a month or two.
Dwarkey's personality is such that he won't have the courage unless he gains a significant amount of weight.
And by the time he does, Misha and I will be leaving the team.
'This makes me feel like a real asshole…'
But it can't be helped.
If his mental state were strong, it might be different…
But what if he confesses to Misha and gets rejected?
He won't be able to focus even in the labyrinth.
And that could put the team in danger.
'Uh, but why am I so sure that he'll get rejected?'
That question suddenly comes to mind, but I don't think about it too deeply. Sometimes, the data accumulated in the subconscious makes the most accurate predictions.
Anyway, next is Rotmiller.
[Be careful. My father must have done something to that Rotmiller.]
Julian Urbans, the Regional Manager's daughter.
If her words are true and Rotmiller made contact with the Regional Manager, there's a high chance that an unsettling conversation took place.
The Regional Manager and I have a bad history.
Although I'm not sure why he's trying something now, after several months…
'Anyway, I can't show any signs of suspicion.'
In Rotmiller's case, unlike Dwarkey, I approached the matter cautiously, taking my time.
This man is scary.
I haven't seen him angry yet…
…but that's why he's even scarier.
These types of people tend to go all the way once they snap.
[Then let's decide on the nearest destination based on our starting point on the 1st floor.]
[Haha, marriage? You ask strange questions. I have no intention of starting a family until I can truly take responsibility for someone.]
[You sit on the inside. You're too big, and you'll keep bumping into people if you sit near the aisle.]
I continued to observe Rotmiller during regular meetings and even casual gatherings.
There was nothing particularly different from before.
He was quiet, serious, and considerate of others in most situations.
'Ha, this is a real headache.'
Even after hearing Julian's warning, I can't imagine Rotmiller betraying me.
No, I even feel guilty for suspecting him.
After all, we've shared joys and sorrows for months.
But to not trust him just because of a single word from an outsider?
'It's the epitome of contradiction.'
The more I think about it, the more ironic the situation becomes.
But the more that's the case, the more I feel like I need to confirm it for sure.
What exactly did Rotmiller talk about with the Regional Manager at the Explorer's Guild that day?
'If he had told me first, I would have dismissed my suspicions without hesitation.'
Rotmiller didn't mention anything about it.
So I called him out separately today to create an opportunity for conversation.
We're really running out of time.
The labyrinth opens tomorrow.
Therefore, I finish my drink in one gulp and get straight to the point.
"Rotmiller. Why did you go to the Explorer's Guild the other day?"
Rotmiller looks slightly surprised at my direct question.
But did he also have a hunch?
So something really did happen.
"I know someone at the guild."
I answer briefly and then demand an answer to my first question.
Rotmiller sighs and replies,
"…I was called there, and the 7th Regional Manager was in the room. He offered me a reward if I betrayed you."
"So?"
"I told him I'd pretend I didn't hear it and left. Is that a satisfactory answer?"
Although he tries to hide it, Rotmiller seems quite annoyed by my questions.
But I take it all and ask again,
"Then why didn't you tell me until now?"
"I told you, I said I'd pretend I didn't hear it. And besides, I thought it would just make things awkward if I told you."
"I see. Thanks for answering."
The conversation ends there.
If I push him any further, it would just sound like I don't trust him. I judged that it wouldn't be a wise move, no matter what Rotmiller's true intentions are.
'It wouldn't change anything anyway.'
I can't enter the labyrinth without a scout.
The option of finding a new one?
That also has its risks.
It's difficult to find a skilled scout if you don't go through the guild.
In short, it's the perfect environment for the Regional Manager to slip in someone strange into the team.
And I doubt the dwarf or Dwarkey would agree in the first place.
'And most importantly, it doesn't seem like Rotmiller is lying about refusing the offer.'
I finally make my judgment.
"Sorry for bothering you at night. Get some rest today, and I'll see you at the meeting place tomorrow."
Nothing changes.
Rotmiller will also be joining this expedition.
__________________________
The next day, afternoon.
In other words, about 7 hours left until the labyrinth opens.
"Mister, then I'll come see you when you get back! Please come back safely!"
"Yeah, you work hard too."
Erwen, who had been chatting at my accommodation since receiving the Bonding spell with her sister in the morning, leaves.
And Misha arrives just in time.
"What the, why is she coming out of here?"
"She said she came to say hello. Since she has nothing to do after receiving the Bonding spell."
"Hmm…"
"Anyway, you came at the right time. Let's go in and get some sleep."
We set the alarm on the alarm clock I bought recently and sleep to adjust our condition.
And after some time…
"Bjorn, wake up."
We have a simple meal and then pack our pre-organized luggage and leave. Since we came a bit early, there's no one at the meeting place yet.
"Hmm, those two aren't here yet?"
As always, Rotmiller arrives on time.
"Yeah, it seems like Dwarkey and Hikurod are running late."
"…It's not even surprising anymore."
Since those two are either early or late, we continue to wait.
That's when…
"Uh, Bjorn! Look over there!"
I look in the direction Misha pointed and see a group of young warriors who just finished their coming-of-age ceremony.
Therefore, I quickly approach them.
It would be rude not to greet them now.
"Are you guys lost? If you are, just follow those people who look like explorers."
"Who are you to say something so obvious?"
"…Bjorn, son of Yandel."
"What! Little Balkan! It's an honor to meet you!"
After revealing my name, I ask,
"But what do you mean obvious? Are you saying you're not lost?"
"Of course not! We just have to follow the explorers like we learned in the sanctuary. Why would we be lost?"
"The sanctuary taught you that? Not by showing you that strange map and telling you to memorize it?"
"Map? We've never seen a map!"
I'm stunned at the young warrior's answer.
What is this?
Did the training method change or something?
Well, it's not bad for me.
It's a much more rational method than telling them to memorize a map.
However…
"We still have some time, so listen to my story."
"Story?"
"Yes, stories that will help you."
I tell them the same stories I told the previous group of newbies.
But what is this again?
"Be wary of humans? That's only natural. We have to protect our own hearts, don't we?"
This group of baby barbarians is clearly different from before.
Every time I say something, they react as if it's obvious.
"Wow… barbarians have evolved."
Misha seems to feel the same way, so it's not just me.
So why this change?
"Who taught you that in the sanctuary?"
I ask out of curiosity and freeze.
"Karon, son of Tarson!"
Without me knowing…
…a change is brewing from the bottom.
"Then we'll be on our way! Bjorn, son of Yandel, it was an honor to meet you!"
I wanted to ask more, but the baby barbarians leave, eager to enter the labyrinth.
And as soon as they disappear, the two we were waiting for arrive at the meeting place.
"Ah, sorry for being late! Did you wait long?"
"Hahaha! Forgive us, Dwarkey here had an upset stomach!"
"Wh, wh, what are you talking about?!"
"Geez, you too. What's there to be embarrassed about? It's just us."
"Enough, let's get going."
Since the two of them were 20 minutes late, we hurriedly head towards the Dimensional Plaza.
The portal is already open.
"Alright, then let's go!"
After Dwarkey casts the Bonding spell, we enter the labyrinth.
______________________
「Entered 1st Floor Crystal Cave.
______________________
The Crystal Cave, filled with brilliant light.
It's been a while since I've seen this sight, as I skipped it last month using a bug, but there's no time to leisurely admire the view.
It's because we decided to speedrun this time.
At Rotmiller's request.
[If you guys allow it, I want to try it properly. Although it's unlikely we'll get any achievement points, I'm curious how well I can do.]
Since he doesn't usually assert himself strongly when planning expeditions, everyone unanimously agreed.
"Then let's depart right away."
He immediately starts navigating after checking our current location by touching the walls and the ground as soon as he opens his eyes.
And he starts running as if jogging.
'It's actually quite fun.'
Rotmiller is at the forefront, finding the path…
…and Misha takes care of the trash mobs right behind him.
The formation that's solely for movement is novel, and since we started running as soon as we entered, I see things I couldn't see before.
"Wow, they're running too!"
Explorers are dashing through the cave to find portals, just like us. It's a sight that's hard to even see when you're moving leisurely.
'Now I understand why it's difficult to shorten the time on the 1st floor.'
I also realize something new.
The 1st-floor cave has many sharp turns.
So it's difficult to run at full speed.
In other words, if you exceed a certain level, the movement speed of all explorers is similar.
This makes the scout's ability even more important.
Hmm, or the stamina of the team members.
"Phew, phew…"
Although we have stamina that far surpasses ordinary people, sweat is pouring down as we jog for hours.
Is that why?
Conversation naturally disappears among the party members.
"Hikurod, are you okay?"
"I'm fine."
Although the dwarf, who lacks agility and endurance, looks like he's almost at his limit, he doesn't complain.
Well, how could he say that in front of Rotmiller, who's like this?
"This way."
As if his words about wanting to test his limits were true, Rotmiller doesn't lose his focus and continues to find the path for hours.
It's passion, in a good way.
It could be seen as madness, in a bad way.
'Is this man this passionate?'
I'm impressed by his unexpected side, but I keep moving my feet.
And after some time…
[06:12]
…we reach the portal in a whopping 6 hours.
However, unfortunately, the portal has already been opened by someone else.
"Wow, I didn't know we could get here this fast."
Misha exclaims, but the dwarf and I first check Rotmiller's expression.
"Damn it! Why am I…!!"
It's the first time I've seen him make such an expression.
-x-X-x-
The portal shimmers like the aurora borealis in the northern sea.
A heavy silence falls before it.
Misha and the dwarf can't say anything and just look around cautiously.
It's that unfamiliar.
The expression Rotmiller is making right now.
Crack.
Rotmiller's tightly closed lips tremble, as if they're chattering.
It's the first time I've seen his true colors.
Something he must have hidden deep inside with his self-control and unwavering ambition.
Inferiority.
"...It's not too late."
Rotmiller breaks the silence and speaks.
"Three teams have already passed through. Even the team at the very front is only about 30 minutes ahead of us. If we hurry, we might be able to overtake them on the 2nd floor."
It sounds logical at first glance.
But when you examine it closely, it's full of contradictions.
And the problem is that everyone nods awkwardly, even though they know this.
"Ah, ah! That would be good. I, I was a bit disappointed to just give up after coming this far."
"Ha, haha! So, so I wasn't the only one who felt that way?"
"...I, I agree."
Nice guys.
I know what they're really thinking.
It's better to just go along with the nonsense and suffer than to say something they don't want to.
"Bjorn... what about you?"
All eyes turn to me, the only one who hasn't given an opinion yet.
Ha, this is so annoying.
Why do I always have to play this role?
I sigh inwardly and say bluntly,
"Do you guys all have a problem with your heads?"
We're already 30 minutes behind on the 1st floor.
That means the gap will widen even further on the 2nd floor.
And we're practically exhausted just from getting here.
"Overtaking those who passed by in this state? Do you really think that's possible?"
The three avoid my gaze and keep their mouths shut.
So I ignore them and look at Rotmiller.
"Braun Rotmiller, enough with the nonsense."
"..."
"If it were the 1st floor, I would play along. But the 2nd floor is impossible for us. Don't put your teammates in danger because of your stubbornness."
Rotmiller clenches his teeth in frustration, and I just stare at him without saying anything.
The answer comes after a while.
"I'm sorry. I must have lost my mind for a moment. Forget what I just said."
"I already forgot."
As soon as Rotmiller apologizes and I brush it off coolly, the three of them let out a sigh of relief.
It seems like they think the situation has been resolved without any conflict, but...
'This is troublesome.'
The problem is that nothing has ended yet.
______________________
Scout.
It's a position that exists to reduce travel time in the labyrinth, where time is of the essence.
Although their combat power is lacking compared to other classes...
...their betrayal is always fatal.
Because they're the only ones who can cooperate with outside forces.
'The Regional Manager must have tried to win over Rotmiller first because he knows that.'
Scouts are in charge of the journey within the labyrinth.
In other words, they could lead us to a place with traps set up by the Regional Manager while pretending to guide us.
'...Should I have just rested this time?'
Braun Rotmiller.
I decided to trust him because I know how he usually is.
A stubborn personality.
Diligent, avoiding shortcuts and valuing effort.
I thought he wouldn't fall for whatever tricks the Regional Manager pulled.
But what about Rotmiller today?
He was different, to the point where he seemed like a different person.
'It must be because of that Regional Manager bastard.'
Of course, I still think the possibility of betrayal is low.
This man isn't stupid, and if he had really intended to betray us, he would have acted like he usually does.
However, it was necessary to assume the worst and be careful.
'...Let's just observe for now.'
The expedition resumed with that anxiety.
But contrary to my worries, Rotmiller led the party rationally, as he usually does.
「Entered 2nd Floor Rock Desert.」
He accurately found the way in the desert where the compass was useless, and on the morning of Day 2, he found the portal to the 3rd floor.
「Entered 3rd Floor Pilgrim's Path.」
Even on the 3rd floor, where we arrived earlier than ever, it wasn't much different.
We headed straight for the Witch's Forest, engaging in minimal combat, and rested when it was 10:00 PM to maintain our biological rhythm.
It was the same at midnight when Day 3 began.
"Hahaha! I don't know why we didn't watch this before and just slept!"
"It's because we didn't have anyone to share it with."
"Dwarkey, you were so cheesy just now."
We woke up for a moment and watched the 3rd floor bathed in silver light together.
Is this a tradition unique to Team Misfits?
No one suggested it, but it's something we've been doing since our first expedition, like an unspoken promise.
「Entered 4th Floor Tower of Heaven.」
Anyway, the expedition continued without any major incidents, and we reached the 4th floor on the evening of Day 7.
So I also relaxed.
It means I no longer have to suspect and be wary of Rotmiller.
'It really was just my imagination.'
The 4th floor is an independent floor.
Once you enter, after about 5 minutes, no other explorer can enter.
Although I was cautious throughout the battle, worried that someone might enter, no one else entered until we cleared the first stage.
"Bjorn! What are you thinking about so hard?"
"Let's go up."
Therefore, I completely dismissed my worries and focused on the expedition.
Hmm, not completely, I guess?
It's just my personality.
I believe that there's no such thing as 100% in this world. Especially if it's during an expedition where anything can happen.
「Chose the Stairs of Wisdom.」
「Chose the Stairs of Courage.」
「Chose the Stairs of Wisdom.」
Anyway, after entering the 4th floor, we focused on climbing the floors, choosing between the Stairs of Wisdom and Courage.
Well, there was also that ridiculous situation where all three doors were Patience…
「Chose the Stairs of Patience.」
…but we managed to get through it without much trouble.
It was an illusion-type trial, and it was bearable.
I could just ignore whatever appeared and said anything.
Honestly, what came after the trial was more annoying.
"Uwaaaaaang, Bjorn…!!"
"Stop crying, it's over."
"If you abandon me too, I'll really be alone!!"
Misha starts bawling as soon as we clear the floor.
The dwarf is kneeling on the ground, frustrated.
"The sword I made is worse than scrap metal…"
For reference, Dwarkey was staring blankly into space as if he's lost his mind, and Rotmiller was clenching his fists silently…
…but they both looked angry.
'…Geez, this is unsettling.'
While they're coming to their senses, I check the box placed in the center of the floor.
It's a reward that you can only obtain when you choose the Trial of Patience.
If you're lucky, a Numbered Item or a random essence below 6th grade might come out…
But there's no way.
As expected, it only contains fifteen 7th-grade magic stones.
"If you're done resting, let's get moving again."
After almost 30 minutes of regaining their composure, the expedition resumes.
And there are no other incidents after that.
We continue to climb the floors, defeating monsters, and finally reach the 100th floor on Day 12 of the expedition.
"I think this is my first time reaching this far."
From the 100th floor onwards, the trial difficulty is fixed at the highest level, and 6th-grade monsters appear more frequently.
However, there's no real danger even here.
It's thanks to our two main damage dealers who have grown significantly.
「Liol Wobu Dwarkey has cast the 7th-grade attack spell [Blizzard].」
「Misha Kaltstein has cast [Ice Crush].」
Dwarkey, who used the money he diligently saved to learn not only support magic, but also a 7th-grade AoE ice spell.
With Misha added to that, there were no problems against most 6th-grade monsters.
With two tanks and sufficient damage, our stability has increased significantly.
Hmm… it would be a different story if a 5th-grade monster like the troll appeared again, though.
'Still, we're much better off than before since we prepared various things with the team funds.'
Actually, it's ridiculous to even worry about 5th-grade monsters on the 4th floor.
We didn't even encounter Hans on the way here.
'And it seems like Rotmiller has completely come to his senses.'
Unlike the beginning, when I was uneasy, this expedition has been going smoothly.
And Day 19 begins.
________________________
[06:32]
I check the time and then look around.
All four of them are sleeping soundly in their respective spots.
'It feels like I'm keeping watch alone for the first time in a while.'
I get back into my sleeping bag and close my eyes, but perhaps because of my increased Stamina, I can't fall asleep easily.
Or is it just because there are only 4 days left until the labyrinth closes?
'I feel strangely uneasy.'
I've noticed it in the past few days, but our teamwork has improved significantly.
It feels like we're finally starting to click.
They each take the best course of action without me having to give orders, and we're even starting to communicate through eye contact and gestures.
One way or another, we're growing into a proper team.
'It's an unbelievable change compared to the beginning.'
Just look at Dwarkey.
He barely shows any signs of being a newbie anymore, and his combat sense is improving day by day.
However…
…although I feel a strange sense of accomplishment at this fact, I also feel a bit disappointed. It's because I know that the days I'll be spending with them are numbered.
'Let's not get swept up in emotions and think rationally.'
The first regular team I formed after being dropped into this strange world.
Although I decided not to get attached to these people…
…how could I possibly control my emotions when I'm human?
I'm sure I'll miss this team later—
Thud.
Just as that thought crosses my mind, I sense a presence.
I subtly raise my head and see that it's Rotmiller.
"Did I wake you up?"
"No, I just woke up a while ago."
"That's a relief. I thought I woke you up again."
'Again'…
Is it just my imagination that his words seem to have a hidden meaning?
Hmm, it's probably not.
This man, Rotmiller, is quite perceptive.
He must have noticed that I've been keeping an eye on him, even though I pretended not to.
"How about we talk for a bit since you're awake?"
"…Alright."
I get out of my sleeping bag, and we sit down, leaning against the wall.
And an awkward silence follows.
Ah, this is our first time talking alone since that day, right?
I feel suffocated, so I take out some jerky from my pocket and chew on it.
Chomp, chomp, chomp.
Yeah, it's a bit better with at least this sound.
Rotmiller, who initiated the conversation, only speaks after I finish eating one piece of jerky.
"…I'm planning to leave the team after this expedition."
"Leave the team?"
Although it's sudden, it's not something I didn't expect at all.
I had considered this possibility.
"It's because of me."
Huh?
"What do you mean?"
"…Give me one of those too."
I hand him a piece of jerky, and Rotmiller chews on it while speaking.
It's a rather long story.
"The Regional Manager's offer played a part in my decision. Even I would be tempted, wouldn't I? He said he would create a scout position for me in a large clan."
"My heart kept pounding even though I knew it was a lie. That's when I first realized that it was time for me to leave this team."
"Ah, but don't feel too burdened. It's something I'm used to. Other races… no, those with talent, they easily climb the ranks, don't they?"
"I've been on many teams in the past 8 years, and there were many times when I was left behind because I couldn't keep up. Sometimes I was kicked out, and sometimes I left on my own before things got worse."
"That's how I, as an explorer, survived."
"But this time, it's not easy."
"Why?"
I ask a question for the first time, and Rotmiller chuckles and answers,
"Because I care about you guys."
"...?"
"I didn't want to admit it even though I knew it was time to leave. So I hid what happened with the Regional Manager and tried to follow you on this expedition. I wanted this journey to continue, even for a little longer. But…"
Rotmiller swallows the jerky he was chewing.
"Everything has to end someday."
I'm speechless at his words.
Rotmiller doesn't say anything, just looks straight ahead as if waiting for my response.
That's when…
The alarm rings, and my companions start stirring one by one.
"It's time for everyone to wake up. I'll be going, so get ready to leave too."
Rotmiller leaves to pack up his sleeping bag.
I take out my watch from my pocket.
[08:00]
It's time for Day 19 of the expedition to begin.
_______________________
Rotmiller is similar to me in many ways.
He tried not to get attached to others, but he did, and even so, he made a rational decision without being swayed by his emotions.
But the difference is…
'I was just looking out for myself, and this man was looking out for us.'
It's not like I haven't made altruistic calculations before.
I thought that if we went to the upper floors with them, someone would die, and our exploration game would be over.
So I wanted to end it myself before that happened.
"Bjorn!"
Honestly, the back of my head is tingling.
I didn't expect Rotmiller to be thinking this way.
How did I appear in his eyes?
What was he thinking as he felt my wary gaze?
Countless questions swirl in my head…
…and then…
"Bjorn! What the hell are you spacing out for?"
I'm brought back to reality as Misha shakes my shoulder.
"Stop dawdling and get ready."
"…Alright."
I come to my senses and help pack up the campsite.
And we all gather and have a simple meal before climbing the stairs.
'Let's tell them when we get back to the city. That there's no need for him to leave since we're going to leave anyway…'
Although my mind is complicated, I decide to focus on the expedition for now.
We still have four days left.
Although we've become strong enough to easily defeat even 6th-grade monsters, the Tower of Heaven is a place where the difficulty can increase ridiculously depending on the combination of monsters.
We can't let our guard down until we return to the city—
「Trial completed.」
…but it's not just me.
"…All three doors are the Stairs of Fate?"
"Didn't I say it could be dangerous?"
Wow, this actually happens.
-x-X-x-
The 4th floor, Tower of Heaven, has a stage-based structure.
After completing a trial, a door opens, and you choose one of three staircases to proceed to the next stage.
For reference, there are four types of staircases.
Courage, Wisdom, Patience, and Fate.
We've never chosen the Stairs of Fate until now.
First of all, its appearance rate is less than 5% compared to the other staircases…
…and the Stairs of Fate has too many variables.
There was no need to choose it.
Not until all three doors are Fate.
"Hmm, can't we just enter any of them? Nothing happened when I chose it before. Just monsters appearing and that's it."
Of course, Fate isn't always dangerous.
As Misha just said, even if you choose Fate, you usually go through the trials of Courage, Wisdom, or Patience.
However…
"It seems like Miss Misha was just lucky. I read in a book that the type of trial is random."
…the problem is that there's a 20% chance of experiencing a different type of trial instead of the three staircases.
There were a total of 32 types in the game.
Being sent back to the 1st floor, a 5th-grade monster appearing, being suddenly trapped in a sealed room, and so on.
'They were ridiculously difficult, the rewards were shitty, and some of them were just there to screw you over.'
So unless you were aiming for a specific reward, Fate was a trial that you should always avoid if you were there to hunt.
Well, it's a bit different now, though.
Just as I'm organizing my thoughts…
"Bjorn, why are you just standing there?"
My companions, who were discussing what to do next, ask for my opinion.
"We've agreed that it's better to just enter any of them. It's a bit disappointing to just waste the remaining time, isn't it?"
I nod in agreement.
"That's true."
We're in the later stages of the 4th floor.
At our current hunting speed, we can earn up to 300,000 stones in four days.
That's per person, not before dividing it into five.
Since we spent most of our time traveling to get here, each day here has a significant impact on our total income.
Right, it's only natural for them to think that way.
'They don't know what this means.'
Three Stairs of Fate never appear at the same time on the 4th floor.
If they do, it means one thing.
That we've reached a special stage.
And that we can now enter one of three hidden fields.
'…The probability is 1 in 3.'
I look at the three doors and contemplate which one to choose.
And then I realize something and chuckle.
"Misha."
"Huh?"
"Why don't you choose which one to enter?"
If I choose, things will probably go wrong.
_____________________
Misha looks at the other party members as if asking for their opinion.
However, they just shrug as if to say they'll trust her choice.
"Ah, this is a lot of pressure…"
In the end, Misha sighs and then glares at me before approaching one of the open doors. It's the door in the center, based on the stairs we climbed up.
"Just so you know, I'm not responsible if a strange monster suddenly appears."
The dwarf chuckles as Misha covers her bases.
"Hahaha, what are you talking about? Are you trying to avoid responsibility?"
"…What? You crazy dwarf!"
"Hi, Hikurod, stop it. You're making Miss Misha uncomfortable…"
It's the usual bickering of Team Misfits, happening three times a day.
I sigh and look to the side, making awkward eye contact with Rotmiller and smiling.
"Alright, everyone, stop it and let's just go."
As Rotmiller mediates the situation and takes the lead, everyone stops talking and gets into formation.
Bang!
The door closes, and darkness envelops us.
It's a darkness so thick that we can't see an inch ahead.
Courage, Wisdom, Patience… it's a different beginning from any of those trials, and everyone is momentarily flustered.
Rotmiller then mutters briefly.
It's the most important information when you're in an unfamiliar situation.
"There are no immediate enemies."
The presence or absence of enemies.
Rotmiller first informs his companions of that and then warns,
"Stay still. There might be traps."
He's a good scout, after all.
He must have made that judgment in a split second.
What he needs to do.
Of course, it's the same for the dwarf.
"Bjorn, I'll watch the rear, so just focus on the front."
His voice is serious, devoid of his usual playfulness.
The moment their voices overlap, the surrounding darkness lifts.
Straight passages branching out in all directions like a maze.
Torches are hanging on the walls at regular intervals, creating an eerie atmosphere.
I quickly check my surroundings and come to a conclusion.
「Character has entered Larkaze's Labyrinth.」
Larkaze's Labyrinth.
One of the three hidden fields in the Tower of Heaven.
Its characteristic is that even Guides can't use their abilities in this labyrinth.
And…
「Field effect – Guardian of Balance is applied.」
「The stats of all entrants are adjusted equally.」
…the total stat points of all characters are redistributed based on the number of people.
"Wh, what! What is this! Did I choose the wrong one? Rotmiller!"
Misha, who has checked the surroundings, looks at Rotmiller with an anxious expression.
However, there's no way he could answer.
"I'm sorry. I don't have any information about this phenomenon either."
"I, I'm the same. I've never heard of a phenomenon where the Stairs of Fate lead explorers to a place like this."
"Ugh, it's not dangerous, right…?"
Everyone keeps their mouths shut at Misha's question.
It's ironic, but the thing that explorers fear the most is the unknown.
"...."
A chilling silence falls.
However, it doesn't last long.
They start talking hurriedly, as if the silence from a moment ago was a lie.
"…How about we just stay here? There are only 4 days left, so we can just endure."
"We don't know anything about this space yet. If it's a space with a similar structure to a rift…"
"Then we'll be trapped here forever in four days!!"
All sorts of speculations and anxieties are poured out.
Well, it would be different if it were the 5th floor, where information sharing is almost non-existent…
…but how could they have known that they would end up in a place like this on the 4th floor?
"How about we check our condition first?"
"Huh?"
"Misha, do you feel any different?"
I pretend not to know and lead them to check their condition first.
"Ah, come to think of it… I feel a bit lighter?"
Misha's reaction is uncertain.
"Hmm, I don't really feel anything. Isn't it just your imagination?"
The dwarf, who has average stats among the party members, doesn't feel any change.
Unlike Rotmiller or Dwarkey.
"It's not imagination. I can't not notice this overflowing vitality."
"I, I'm the same. My mana capacity has increased significantly. At this rate, even 6th-grade magic should be possible, but what the hell is going on…?"
What's going on?
It's all because it was converted from my stats.
Even though I only have three essences, they're all essences with ridiculously high base stats.
Damn communism.
'Just how much muscle loss is this…?'
I rest my mace on the ground to distribute the weight, feeling heavy.
Misha is the first to notice my action.
"Bjorn? Are you hurt?"
"My body feels strange. I feel weak."
"What?!"
While Misha approaches me with a worried expression…
…Rotmiller offers a guess.
"There must be a condition. It's not a space where everyone just becomes stronger."
"Condition? What kind of condition makes me weaker and you guys stronger? This is unfair!"
I subtly drop a hint while pretending to ask.
As expected, Rotmiller comes up with a plausible hypothesis.
No, is it even right to call it a hypothesis at this point?
"Maybe our stats got mixed up…"
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"I'm not sure yet, so I'll tell you later when things are sorted out."
Hmm, it seems like he'll explain it to them without me having to do anything.
So I move on to the next topic.
We don't have time to keep chatting.
"Then what are we going to do now?"
"Bjorn, what do you think?"
"I think it's best to explore this place and find a way out."
"Why?"
I answer without hesitation,
"If it's a place that others don't know about, doesn't that mean the rewards will be greater?"
"That's a very explorer-like perspective."
I puff out my chest at Rotmiller's comment.
No matter what you call it, the ultimate goal of an explorer is money.
And I'm definitely motivated.
"Well, we'll be trapped here in four days if we just stay put…"
"Hahaha, we're explorers, aren't we? It would be good to at least explore the surroundings."
A spark of enthusiasm appears in the eyes of the three who were anxious and uneasy.
Of course, Dwarkey's words were the decisive factor.
"Ah, ah! I just thought of this, but maybe this is a part of the last Archmage's plan!"
"What? You mean Gavrilius's plan?"
"Indeed… that's possible. The three Stairs of Fate appearing at the same time, and this strange phenomenon."
Gavrilius's plan.
In short, it's what these people call the 'hidden pieces' that I refer to.
The dwarf exclaims with ambition,
"Right! It's still part of the 4th floor. There's no way a ridiculous monster will appear!"
Four days left until the labyrinth closes.
And so, the final expedition of Team Misfits begins.
______________________
Larkaze's Labyrinth.
It's not the type of hidden field I was hoping for when I let Misha choose.
Although it has the best final reward among the three…
'…it's probably impossible to clear within four days.'
It takes a long time because of its maze-like structure.
Finding the boss is one thing, but defeating it with our current strength requires a lot of preparation.
Therefore, I also decide not to push it.
Unlike what these guys are worried about, it's not a place where you get trapped if you don't clear it within the time limit…
…and there are some pretty attractive rewards scattered throughout the labyrinth.
"Then let's go."
We get into formation as planned and step into the labyrinth.
"It seems like it's okay to keep going."
I take the lead, and Rotmiller follows closely behind, checking for traps.
Ah, and the dwarf is at the very back.
Because monsters don't just appear from the front here.
"Miss Misha, don't worry. I'll protect you."
"What are you talking about? I should be the one protecting you."
"Huhu, then let's protect each other."
"…What are you talking about?"
Anyway, because of that, our two main damage dealers are positioned in the center.
It's the safest place, and they also need to be able to support both the front and the rear depending on the situation.
[Meeek, meeek, meeek!]
About 3 minutes after we start exploring…
…a monster appears from a fork in the path.
It's the first reward of Larkaze's Labyrinth.
"It's a monster I've never seen before. Bjorn, be careful."
A monster we're encountering for the first time.
That alone is like a godsend to us.
[Dungeon and Stone] is a game where you can't even reach level 5 even if you kill all the monsters up to the 4th floor.
Isn't that ironic?
You need to absorb at least five 6th or 7th-grade essences to hunt safely on the 5th floor, but you can't reach level 5 without going to the 5th floor.
'This is why there are no newbies.'
Ah, wait, if you reach the 5th floor, you're not a newbie anymore, are you?
I dismiss the unnecessary question and grip my shield with both hands.
It feels a bit awkward without the mace…
…but it's too heavy to swing with one hand at my current strength, so I put it in my backpack.
I judged that it's better to just leave the damage dealing to the damage dealers.
[Meeek!!!]
The monster, which was hesitating in the distance, roars and charges towards me.
And at the same time, Dwarkey shouts,
"Ah, I saw this in a book! It's a Vykuntus!"
6th-grade monster, Vykuntus.
It's easy to imagine if you think of a bipedal goat.
Its height, including its majestic horns, is about 2.5 meters.
For reference, its weapon is a giant halberd that it holds in both hands.
Kwaaang!
The halberd strikes my shield, and I feel its heavy weight throughout my body.
I'm glad I decided to leave the mace behind.
It would have been difficult to hold out in this state if I were using one hand.
'Damn it.'
Is it because I shared my precious physical stats with my companions?
It feels like I'm fighting a 5th-grade monster, not a 6th-grade.
Well, the battle itself isn't difficult.
「Liol Wobu Dwarkey has cast the 8th-grade support spell [Freezing Enhancement].」
「Liol Wobu Dwarkey has cast the 8th-grade attack spell [Ice Spear].」
While I'm blocking the goat's attacks, Dwarkey completes his single-target attack spell.
"Bjorn!"
Dwarkey calls out to me, and I immediately dodge to the side as we practiced.
This is something that always happens.
But what is this?
Whoosh!
The size of the 'Ice Spear' that grazes past me is different.
The wind pressure alone makes my skin cold.
And naturally, the result is also different from usual.
Kwaaang!!
It's an impact sound that wouldn't be out of place if a 'Fireball' had hit it.
"Huh?"
Misha, who was waiting for the right moment to follow up, lets out a gasp.
It's understandable.
The Vykuntus, a 6th-grade monster, is already disappearing into light.
「Killed Vykuntus. EXP +4」
Geez, my physical stats decreased so much…
…it's all because it was converted into his mana.
"Is this… my magic…?"
I look at Dwarkey, who is muttering to himself, and realize…
…that he's no longer a half-assed mage in this place.
That means…
'This changes things.'
It wouldn't be bad to aim for clearing this place.