Hans Krisen.
A name that sounds familiar.
"Uh! Bjorn! That person is definitely that guy from before...!"
I remember even before Misha can finish her sentence.
After all, various summons are appearing around him.
"He's a summoner!"
Summons with an average rank of 7, consisting of one offensive type and three support types. I examine each of them and let out a sigh.
'No wonder he looked familiar.'
With this, the possibility of him being a look-alike is gone.
Hans G.
The guy I judged to be a 'player' based on the fact that he knew Riakis's patterns and the conditions for the Death Knight's appearance.
'Damn it.'
What happened after I met him back then?
A troll appeared on the 4th floor, and we almost died.
Player or whatever, Hans in this world is like a plague.
Thud.
My heart turns cold.
I have to kill him.
That's the only thought that dominates my mind.
"Mr. Yandel? Why have you been so quiet—"
I dash forward with more force than ever.
As if I stopped for a moment just to gain momentum.
Thud!
I quickly close the distance between us, leaving a clear footprint on the hard ground.
Hans G isn't just standing there watching either.
[Kyaaaak—!]
A lizard roars and breathes fire.
To be precise, it's a fire-attribute offensive summon named 'Nymph'.
Whoosh!
Although the flames aren't that threatening, as expected of a 7th-grade summon, the firepower increases explosively as the support summons' buffs are applied.
Sizzle!
A scorching heat burns my skin.
But so what?
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
I cover my upper body with my shield.
And I just endure the rest with my Fire Resistance and charge through the flames. My skin might peel off because of this, but everything has a priority.
Kwagic!
The mace, imbued with the Ogre's strength, makes a satisfying sound.
And at the same time, Hans G's head explodes, and he collapses.
It's an instant death, as he disappears into light before his body even hits the ground.
"Wh, what did you do?!"
Raven shouts at my actions, which are completely different from our agreement.
I can understand why she's angry, but I can explain later.
"Don't come any closer!!"
I shout authoritatively and quickly move towards my companions.
And I take a deep breath I'd been holding back.
"Phew!"
It's fine.
Although I met a Hans, I didn't breathe in the contaminated air.
So it will be okay.
No, it has to be oka—
"Don't tell me, he was poisoned?"
Uh, that's not it...
What should I call this?
"Yeah, we're giving up on this path."
"Yes? No, you're saying he was really poisoned? But there were no signs of that..."
"Enough, just come here."
I lead the team back the way we came, acting somewhat forcefully.
But is my behavior strange?
Raven, who's obediently following me, has a serious expression.
"I think we've come far enough."
I stop after walking for about 5 minutes.
But just as I turn around to explain what happened...
"Uh!"
I trip over a protruding stone and stumble. Although I manage to regain my balance and avoid falling...
...even this doesn't feel like a coincidence.
Don't tell me, the Hans effect has started?
Right, it wasn't even the real one, but a Doppelganger. Maybe this is all the misfortune I'll experience—
"Yandel! There's something else ahead!"
I quickly look ahead at the bear-like man's shout.
Two Doppelgangers are approaching.
The reason I was certain they were Doppelgangers as soon as I saw them is simple.
Both of them have the same face.
'Damn it.'
I close and open my eyes tightly.
But the sight before me doesn't change.
Is this hell?
"I... am... Kr, i... sen."
"Ha, ns... Kr, i... sen..."
Hanses are multiplying.
_______________________
It was the same as before.
I ignored the intensified flames and smashed their heads.
And I held my breath while doing so.
"Everyone, hold your breath. We're breaking through!"
"No? What?"
"No time to explain!"
We hold our breath and run through the passage since there's no way back.
And when I think it's finally safe...
...I stop and check on my companions.
"Bjorn, your eyes are scary!!"
"What the hell is going on? I don't think it was poison. Don't tell me you knew him?"
My companions are confused by my unusual behavior.
"Yeah, I knew him."
I try to calm down and explain everything one by one.
That the Doppelganger I met earlier was named Hans.
And all the bad things that happened whenever I met a Hans.
"Th, this is bad!!! But what should we do? I breathed!"
Ainar, who knows about the 'Hans education' I gave barbarians, is anxious and starts biting her nails after hearing the hidden story.
"...It's not something we can just dismiss as a coincidence."
As expected of an explorer who's superstitious, the bear-like man also has an uneasy expression.
And Raven...
"Yes? You're saying it's not a coincidence?"
...laughs out loud after staring blankly as if saying, 'What the hell are you guys talking about?'
"Pfft, hahahahaha!"
Is she a psychopath?
How can she laugh in this atmosphere?
"Seeing this, I guess Mr. Yandel really is a barbarian."
"That's a racist remark."
"Ah, I'm sorry if it sounded like that. But... pu, hahaha! If you're really worried, why don't you give us a mage's blessing?"
Mage's blessing?
There was no such thing even in the game.
Raven explains gently as if talking to a child when I tilt my head in confusion.
"When mages visit poor neighborhoods, children cling to them and beg for good luck. That's a mage's blessing."
...So it's just a symbolic blessing?
"I don't need it."
"Why? It can at least give you peace of mind."
Raven, who was laughing, says it wasn't just a joke and tells me about a study.
That if you strongly believe in something, it affects your body?
It seems like she's talking about the placebo effect...
Geez, what does she take barbarians for?
"Just do it."
"Okay. Really? Ah, how do you do this again? Can you bend down a bit?"
I plop down on the ground, and Raven places her hands on my shoulders alternately, with a solemn expression, as if knighting me.
And she adds words of comfort, which is unlike her.
"Everything will be fine. You received my luck."
I don't know about luck...
But it seems like my rationality is returning.
Come to think of it, it's just a jinx.
Was there even a Hans around when we met the Dragonslayer?
"Ah, seriously! Get a grip! You're the leader of our team!"
I need to come to my senses, as Raven said.
Even if the Hans effect is real, we're bound to encounter the real Hans since we entered the rift.
I just have to be more careful than usual.
"Me too!! Give me one too!!"
"Me next... is that okay?"
"Ahem, I also request one."
My companions gather in front of Raven like baby birds, perhaps because of my improved expression.
"Ha... Alright. Everyone, line up."
Raven sighs and then gives each of us a blessing, even adding words of comfort.
Was she always like this?
It feels like I've seen an unexpected side of her.
"Now tell us. There's no way you just killed him recklessly. You already know about him, right? That Hans guy or whatever."
"To some extent."
We share information after the blessings are over.
What essences Hans Krisen possesses.
And who his companions are.
"A fairy archer, a human warrior, and a mage, right?"
"That's how it was when I last saw them."
"There are only four of them?"
"They entered a rift, so there's a high chance they're a 5-person team now. They probably added a Guide to the remaining spot."
The 4th-floor rifts open at a random location on a stage above level 25. It's practically impossible to find a rift before it's full without a Guide.
"Indeed, that's highly likely."
Raven nods reassuringly as I explain what I know about his companions.
It seems like I understand what she's thinking.
Unless there have been major changes, Hans G's team is clearly weaker than us.
"We don't have to worry about them trying to cheat us with the loot distribution."
"We're the ones who should be cheating."
"If the situation allows. We don't know anything about the other team yet, do we?"
We end the information sharing about Hans's team and resume exploration.
Fortunately, we've created some distance from him, so only our Doppelgangers appear afterwards.
'Tsk, I wanted to check out the other team beforehand...'
The unidentified team whose path doesn't seem to overlap with ours.
But there's nothing I can do by regretting it.
"Oh! It's another magic stone chest!"
We wander through the cave all day, opening the occasional chest.
It's the main reward of the first chapter, the Shadow Cave.
Doppelgangers don't drop magic stones or essences, no matter how many you kill.
It's a way of balancing things out.
'Still, it's a bit strange.'
In the game, I just accepted it as a game mechanic.
But actually experiencing it in real life makes it feel strange.
Like it's really a game.
[There's a hypothesis circulating in academia these days that he didn't discover the labyrinth, but created it.]
I even have the thought that maybe what Raven said before is true. If someone created it, this structure would make sense.
'In the first place, what the hell is this world?'
Is it a game, or is it another real world?
The question I've had since the first day I woke up in this body lingers in my mind, but as always, I fold it neatly and bury it deep inside.
I don't have an answer with the clues I have right now.
It's not rational to waste energy on pointless things.
"It seems like all the chests have been opened. And there are barely any Doppelgangers appearing. What should we do?"
"Didn't we agree that you would make the decisions here?"
I shrug and hand over the decision-making power to Raven.
After all, what she wants to say is probably what I want to say.
"Hmm, then I think it's best to rest here today and then head to the center when we wake up."
Right.
"Why?"
"It's highly likely that the other teams are already gathered at the center. There's no need to camp together, right?"
It's a mage-like, safety-oriented judgment.
I especially like the part where distrust of others is the foundation.
"Well, do you have anything to say about my decision?"
"Nothing at all."
"Hmm, your eyes look strange..."
"I was just thinking that it's a good thing we have a mage like you on the team."
I mean it.
She'll never know how much easier my life has become since she joined the team.
"...Flattery won't get you anywhere."
What is she talking about? Her shoulders are already up to her ears.
We finish preparing for camp and take turns keeping watch, ending Day 8.
And so, Day 9 begins.
[05:07]
We wake up a bit earlier than usual and head towards the center of the cave.
We don't get lost.
We were just staying here because of the chests, but the way to the center is simple.
Just follow the path where weeds are growing.
Thud, thud.
The amount of weeds and moss on the walls increases as we head towards the center, and soon a vast cavern appears before us.
"The latecomers have finally arrived!"
Ten explorers are already gathered there.
"Oh! You, you're here! Mr. Yandel!"
Ah, and of course, Hans G is among them.
____________________
Did they spend the night here?
The explorers are cleaning up the messy surroundings when we arrive.
I scan them first.
'Hans G's team is as I expected.'
It seems like there were no member changes, as all four of them are the same explorers I saw before.
That woman I've never seen before must be a new member.
'And that side...'
I don't know.
It's a composition of a dwarf, a beastman, and three humans.
Their equipment is about the same level as ours.
The only thing that's unusual is that they all have sharp looks in their eyes.
Actually, it's not that strange considering it's a rift.
"Who's the leader on your side?"
The dwarf approaches us.
He's the one who scolded us for being late as soon as we arrived.
"Ah, I think Mr. Yandel is the leader. That, that person I mentioned before."
"The one called Little Balkan?"
"Ye, yes."
Have they already introduced themselves?
Hans G says something to the dwarf and then approaches me, acting friendly.
"Ni, nice to meet you. I, I didn't expect to see you here. Do you know how su, surprised I was when I met your Dopp, elganger?"
"Stop."
"...Yes?"
"Stop coming closer."
I block Hans's approach, lowering my voice.
From my perspective, this distance is perfect.
It's not a world with masks, you know?
"Identification tags?"
I then ignore Hans and speak to the dwarf.
But for some reason, Hans G answers.
"Ah, haha! I, I already checked the identification tags, so you don't ha, have to wor—"
Really?
I'm even more uneasy because you checked them.
"Identification tags."
I ignore Hans's words and repeat myself, and the dwarf chuckles and demands in return,
"You guys first."
Is he trying to start a battle of nerves?
Although I don't intend to avoid it, confirming their identities comes first, so I take out my necklace and show it to him.
"Now it's your turn."
The dwarf also takes out his necklace and shows it to me at my request.
"So, are we done?"
"...Yes."
I nod.
That's when I hear Raven's voice in my head.
It's the Whisper spell, used to communicate secretly.
[Mr. Yandel.]
Right, you noticed it too.
[These people... aren't from the city.]
They're bastards from the underground.
-x-X-x-
The identification tag that we only received right before entering the labyrinth.
It's called an identification tag, but it's really just a steel pendant with the royal emblem on it.
For reference, Raven, who has a regular appraiser license, estimated the production cost to be less than 3,000 stones.
[So it's really just an ordinary necklace.]
[Even the royal family wouldn't be able to create and distribute something like a magic tool in that short amount of time.]
And there wasn't even a name on it, so it would be impossible to tell who stole it.
But as we examined it closely...
...we found a hidden trick.
It wasn't anything special, but...
It was something that neither the official who gave it to us nor the knight we met on the 1st floor bothered to mention.
[What the hell is written here?]
[...It's in the ancient language.]
A small number written in the ancient language between the royal emblems.
The number on our identification tags is 2.
Raven and I made several guesses and then reached a conclusion after comparing it with various other explorers' identification tags.
[The clan we met earlier all had 3 written on their identification tags.]
This ancient number represents the explorer's level.
It doesn't indicate the exact rank, but 1 means low-ranking, 2 means mid-ranking, and 3 means high-ranking.
[I was wondering why they asked about our rank when they were distributing them, so this was the reason.]
[But why didn't they tell us?]
[To prevent Noark from exploiting it.]
Of course, it's a flimsy measure, as anyone who can read the ancient language could figure it out like we did.
But it's not bad in terms of cost-effectiveness.
Adding one more number when stamping the emblem isn't that difficult, is it?
And we're actually benefiting from it right now.
'Phew, damn Hans effect.'
I try to control my expression and clench my hand holding the shield. The number on the identification tag that the dwarf's team showed us earlier was 1.
It means they're from Noark, having stolen the identification tag.
Judging by their equipment and everything, there's no way they're low-ranking explorers.
'Now, what should I do?'
Should I just attack them right now?
It was the first option that came to mind, but after careful consideration, it was the worst possible move.
It seems like Raven also has a similar thought.
[They don't know that we've figured out their identity yet. So for now, let's pretend we don't know and explore first.]
Right, this is the best option.
I nod in response to her Whisper spell, and the dwarf glances at me with a meaningful look.
"Is there a problem?"
"No. Let's just introduce ourselves. I'm Bjorn, son of Yandel. You?"
"Jagurs Marthan."
It's a dwarven name, but it's probably a pseudonym.
"Ah! I, I'm Hans Krisen!"
The introductions between leaders end as Hans G also reveals his name.
"Identification tags?"
"Ah, here they are. What are you guys doing? Show them to him."
I also check Hans G's team's identification tags, just in case.
Except for one newbie with 1 written on it, they're all 2.
"Um... we, we have to move together from now on, so how about we introduce the other members too?"
"Hmm, move together? Do you know anything about this rift?"
"Yes, I'm somewhat knowledgeable since I like reading books."
Hans G confidently nods at the dwarf's question.
It's kind of funny, seeing him like that.
He learned from books?
Isn't that the excuse I always use?
"Explain. What happens next?"
"If we all gather and touch it, a path will open. And if we follow that path, we'll reach a forest."
"...You're useful."
"Haha... I'm gl, glad to be of help. In that sense, how about we take some time to get to know each other? What we're good at, and all."
We then have a brief introduction session, sharing our team compositions.
To summarize:
[Hans G's team]
Summoner, mage, mace warrior, Guide, fairy archer.
[Dwarf's team]
Dwarf warrior, beastman swordsman, sorcerer, archer, priest.
"Oh! You have a priest!"
Hans G's face brightens up as soon as he hears the dwarf's team composition. He seems happy about the presence of a priest since we'll have to do raids from now on...
But he's probably a priest of Karui.
"Um, then how about the loot distribution...?"
As expected of explorers who met in a rift, they immediately start discussing the loot after the introductions are over.
And as a result...
Each team keeps the trash mobs they kill.
And for the loot obtained from hunting together, we'll roll dice.
However, it's not a fair dice roll.
"Shouldn't the team that contributes more get more? Mr. Krisen, was it? Just by looking at you, it seems like your team will be the least helpful."
"Ah, as I said before, we have information about this rift—"
"I also know a lot about the Doppelganger Forest."
Raven's negotiation mode, toying with the opponent with her soft-spoken voice.
"Wait a minute, aren't you being too rude?"
The fairy archer from Hans's team explodes in anger, but nothing changes.
"Meilin, stop it. He's no, not wrong."
"Right, admit what you have to admit. Didn't we all suffer because of that barbarian's Doppelganger? It's unfair to them to demand fairness when there's such a difference in strength."
"..."
The fairy archer clenches her teeth in frustration, unable to say anything as both the leader and the mage say the same thing.
Hans G then speaks in a bitter voice,
"We'll subtract 1 from the number we roll on the dice."
"Subtract 2. And we'll use a 10-sided dice."
"...Alright. But in return, please increase our share if we make a contribution."
"That's a reasonable suggestion. Actually, why don't we make that the rule? We subtract 1 from the number if any team makes a mistake, and add 1 if they do well. How about it?"
Raven looks directly at the dwarf and says that, and the dwarf nods readily.
"Not bad."
Because they're planning to backstab us anyway.
Is it just my imagination that I heard that?
__________________
We gather at the altar in the center of the cavern and place our hands on it, and the vines blocking the passage move aside, revealing an uphill path.
"We'll go first. But we'd prefer if you didn't follow too closely."
"That's only natural."
We proceed through the passage, maintaining a safe distance between the teams, and soon a forest appears.
The second chapter begins.
「Character has entered a special area.」
「Field effect - Doppelganger Forest is applied.」
「Status effect [Distrust] is applied.」
「Damage dealt to party members is doubled.」
The content of this chapter is simple.
We just have to wander through the forest, defeat three mid-bosses, and find an altar that's hidden somewhere.
"So which team will take the lead?"
"It's better to take turns."
As expected of explorers with 'Distrust' as a passive, we move in a formation where the teams are separated, instead of moving as one.
It looks like an isosceles triangle from above.
Each team takes care of the monsters in their respective directions, and they provide support if there's danger.
"Activate the Voice Control spell."
Although we're quite far from the other teams, I activate the team voice magic. And we continue exploring, defeating the Doppelgangers that appear every few minutes.
After some time...
"Nyaha! What the, that dwarf! He was acting all tough, but he's nothing in a fight!"
We naturally hunt the Doppelgangers of the other members and gather information.
Hans G's side is as easy as expected, and the dwarf's team isn't as strong as we thought.
'They're probably around 5th-grade level.'
It's good news for me, who was even considering the possibility that they might be as strong as the Dragonslayer.
"Raven, activate Voice Control."
"Yes? I'm already using it."
Ah, I didn't tell her.
"Just between you and me."
It's a sensitive topic.
"Huh? Why just the two of us...?"
"I'll explain later."
Although the three who are being ostracized express their doubts, they nod after seeing my expression.
"...It's done. But you're not going to tell them?"
"I don't think those three are good at acting."
Although I didn't intend it, our gazes naturally turn towards Ainar.
"...Let's end this conversation here."
"Yes. That would be best."
I get to the point.
"So what do you think they're going to do?"
"It's 50/50. They might just want to finish the exploration peacefully and leave... or they might get greedy."
It's a slightly unexpected answer.
"50/50?"
I thought she would say that the probability of them being greedy is higher.
"They're outnumbered. And after fighting them, they're not even stronger than us."
Hmm, that's true.
"But one thing's for sure, they won't do anything right now, even if they're greedy. It will probably be after we defeat the guardian."
I agree with this part.
The Doppelganger Forest is a rift with a maximum capacity of 15 people.
It means it's difficult to clear with just one team unless they're incredibly skilled.
"You know, right? Conversely, it also means that we can't attack them first until we defeat the guardian."
"Yeah, I know."
It's the most frustrating part of the current situation.
Cutting off the source of the problem.
After all, you can only relax after completely uprooting the problem, but we can't attack first!
My mace is itching to be used.
"Then what about them?"
"The team with Hans?"
"Yeah. Did you notice anything suspicious?"
"I don't know. He seemed a bit clueless, but he didn't seem like a bad person."
"He didn't seem like a bad person..."
Indeed, he does seem that way.
But I know.
That Hans G is the one who led over a hundred explorers to their deaths just to save himself when we were trapped in [Crack of Evil].
He's not someone who can be dismissed as an idiot.
And he's a player.
"Ha..."
I can't help but sigh.
Hans G and now a team of explorers from Noark.
Why does the difficulty level increase every time I enter a rift?
"Bjorn, Doppelganger!"
"...Keep an eye on them too. Tell me immediately if you notice anything strange."
"Okay."
I end the conversation with Raven and focus on the exploration. Surprisingly, no one asks about our conversation.
They must be curious...
But they're just trusting us and waiting, assuming there's a reason.
'...Geez, I feel bad.'
"Co, could we get some support?!"
Anyway, time passes without any major incidents, except for the occasional request for support from Hans G's team.
And as night approaches...
...we find one of the three mid-bosses.
"It, it's a Manticore!"
It's one of the few non-Doppelganger monsters in this rift, and it's known for its cost-effectiveness in terms of both byproducts and essence.
「Killed Manticore. EXP +5」
The strategy itself wasn't difficult thanks to Raven and Hans G's information.
However, the problem was...
No, is it even right to call it a problem?
"Stop!"
...an essence dropped.
It's an essence that I can absorb, something that hasn't happened in a long time.
"Raven, take out the dice!"
I have to win this.
-x-X-x-
The Manticore.
A level 5 monster with a grotesque appearance, a lion's body and a human face.
This guy's essence is quite unique.
[Manticore]
Discernment +40, Appetite +30, Jumping Power +30.
The stats are practically just Jumping Power +30.
It's at a level that's even worse than a 9th-grade monster, but its passive is related to stats.
(P) Inheritance - Stats permanently increase when consuming magic stones.
[Inheritance].
It's a skill that increases your stats when you eat magic stones.
Just looking at the description, it seems like a cheat-level skill, but there's a decisive restriction.
'The total absorbable stat points are 200, I think?'
The total stat points you can obtain through the skill is 200.
So at first, I thought, 'What kind of trash essence is this?'
There are many 5th-grade essences with over 300 total stat points.
But to have to use even the passive to obtain the base stats that should be there?
And its active skill wasn't even that good.
It would be different if it had 'Random Skill Spam', the Manticore's signature ability, but you can't obtain that through the essence since it's an individual monster's unique ability.
However...
"Stop!"
...everyone's eyes changed the moment this essence appeared.
Right, you guys also know the true value of this essence.
"Raven, take out the dice!"
The dwarf growled as soon as I shouted,
"Before that, I think it's best to step back, barbarian."
What, does he think I'm going to just eat it if I lose the dice roll? Although it's ridiculous, it wouldn't be good to cause trouble right now.
"...Let's all step back together."
"Alright."
"Ye, yes! That would be best."
Starting with me, we all step back.
And we quickly summarize the situation.
The essence lasts for an average of 30 minutes.
So, first, this is something I couldn't ask before.
"Is there any team that wants to give up on bidding?"
I ask just in case, but both Hans G and the dwarf shake their heads and say,
"We, we'll participate. It's an essence that everyone can use except for mages and priests, isn't it?"
This is why players are...
The true value of the Manticore essence is revealed when you remove it at the temple.
20% of the additional stats remain even after deletion.
It's practically an elixir that gives you a bonus of 40 stat points.
"There's no way we would give up on such an expensive essence."
"...Expensive essence? Are you planning to sell it?"
"We don't have any essence slots left."
Hmm, that's possible, but...
A possibility suddenly comes to mind.
'Right, these bastards are from the underground city.'
The process of removing essences at the temple is complicated for explorers from Noark.
It would be even more so in the current situation where the city is under lockdown.
It would be more rational for them to keep it and secretly sell it later when the lockdown is lifted.
However, the biggest question remains.
"...You don't have a mage?"
There's no mage in the dwarf's team.
Although the sorcerer, who's focused on offensive essences, plays a similar role in terms of firepower, he can't replace a mage's utility.
The dwarf answers nonchalantly,
"You have one, don't you? We'll pay you handsomely for the test tube and your efforts."
Geez, trying to freeload.
"What if both of us refuse?"
The dwarf chuckles at my suggestion to not be greedy.
"We'll still roll the dice. And if we win, we'll watch until the essence disappears."
In other words, they're saying they'll interfere if they can't have it.
I feel a bitter taste in my mouth.
As expected, explorers are explorers, whether they're from the underground or the surface.
They're surprisingly similar in this aspect.
'Should I just ambush them and kill them here?'
That extreme method briefly crosses my mind, but I calm myself.
Raven's help is significant.
"Mr. Yandel, we have no choice."
Right, we haven't even rolled the dice yet.
It's not a core essence like the [Gigantification] essence.
I'll have to remove it anyway once I can absorb 3rd-grade essences.
It's not like there aren't any better essences out there.
"So how long are you going to just stand there?"
I come to my senses at the dwarf's urging.
"Let's have one representative from each team."
The leaders of each team gather in one place.
I briefly explain the rules.
"We each roll the dice once, and the one with the highest number gets the loot. However, if there's a tie, those two roll again to decide the winner."
"Are we going to use the mage's dice?"
"It's an official Explorer's Guild dice. It doesn't matter if we don't use mine. Of course, I'll have to check it first."
"Really? Then I don't mind."
The dwarf nods coolly, and the preparations are complete as the mage from Hans G's team examines my and Raven's dice.
"Hans, you'll subtract 2 from the number you roll, as promised. So if you have anything to say, say it now."
"...We, we're satisfied just with the opportunity."
"Then it's settled. So, who's going first?"
First or second.
Honestly, does it even matter?
Everyone gulps and looks at each other.
Unexpectedly, Hans G is the first to step forward.
"I, I'll go first."
Hans G picks up the dice.
Although he has a -2 handicap...
...his companions cheer him on with expectant eyes.
"Mr. Krisen, good luck...!"
"Hans, if you don't roll properly, you'll get spanked when you get back."
"Mr. Krisen, don't feel pressured, it's okay even if you lose."
From the newbie Guide to the human warrior and the middle-aged mage. Hans G looks at each of them and then makes eye contact with the fairy archer.
The fairy archer nods silently.
Their relationship seems very special.
'Geez, it's like a shonen manga.'
I can't help but chuckle.
The newbie woman who joined as a Guide is biting her lip in frustration, watching them.
"Then... I'll roll!"
Hans G rolls the dice with a confident shout.
Roll, roll, roll.
The dice rolls on the dry ground, showing the numbers on each side one after another.
Thud.
The dice stop in silence.
[10]
The number on the dice is 10.
The highest possible number.
"Kyaaaaaak!"
"He's crazy! He's insane!!"
"Standard market price! Partslan, what's the standard market price listed at the guild?!"
Cheers erupt from his companions, and we're all speechless.
The dwarf steps forward as if he doesn't like our reaction.
"You're acting as if it's already yours. Don't tell me you forgot that you have to subtract 2 from the number?"
"Ah, ye, yes... I know."
The heated atmosphere cools down, but Hans G's team is still in a celebratory mood.
Well, 8 is a high enough number.
"I'm next."
The dwarf snatches the dice from Hans G. He hesitates for a moment, then frowns and throws the dice on the ground.
Roll, roll, roll.
The dice stop after rolling a few times.
[9]
...Is this for real?
"Aaaaaaaaaaaak!"
"Damn iiiit!!"
"I believed in you! You bastard!!"
Beastly shouts erupt from the dwarf's team.
On the other hand, Hans G's team members all have stiff expressions, unable to control their shock.
"Kick."
The dwarf then smirks, looking at Hans G and me. And he utters a line that I've probably said the least in my life.
"You're lucky."
What the hell is wrong with this guy's personality?
An overwhelming sense of despair envelops me.
But I can't collapse.
There are too many things supporting me.
"Yandel! What, you're acting like this over something like this? It's not like you."
"I believe in you! Bjorn!! You can do it!!"
"Yeah, yeah, Bjorn! You can do anything!"
"I won't talk about probability. It's meaningless to you anyway, Mr. Yandel."
I have companions who still believe in me.
And I haven't given up yet.
Therefore...
Clench.
...I grip the dice.
Smirk.
The dwarf laughs arrogantly, looking at me.
It's a familiar situation.
Hans's number is 8.
The dwarf's number is 9.
I just need to roll a 10.
Probability is just probability, it's meaningless.
It's a dramatic development that often appears in movies and cartoons.
Right, this has to work...!
No, it's a structure where it can't not work.
"...Bjorn's eyes have changed."
I felt a strange sense of certainty.
It's like an invisible force is enveloping me.
I throw the dice before that feeling disappears.
"Go! Great warrior!!!"
The dice roll amidst Ainar's shout.
Surprisingly, my mind is calmer than ever as I watch them.
Thump.
My heart beats slowly.
The air surrounding my skin is cool, and each second is vividly engraved in my mind as if time is slowing down.
And in that pleasant sensation...
Thud.
...the dice stop.
The atmosphere changes instantly.
"..."
A chilling silence falls.
I look at the people instead of the dice.
"Crazy..."
Even the dwarf, who was smiling arrogantly...
...my companions, who were watching with trust...
...and even Hans G's team, whose defeat is already confirmed, are gaping in disbelief.
'Did it really work...?'
I check the dice.
[1]
___________________
...I should have had Misha roll it.
Losers don't speak.
Because it's all just excuses.
They just have to endure silently.
Just like I am right now.
"Puhahahaha! A 1 with that expression! Did you see that? Did you see? I was actually scared, you know? Because of his confident look."
Sharp mockery erupts from the dwarf's team.
I'm covered in humiliation from head to toe.
"I almost want to ask him. How the hell could you make that kind of expression! Khahahaha!"
"Don't make fun of Bjorn!!"
"Gaaaaah! Great warrior! Pfft, pfft! Hahahaha!"
"...I'll kill you!!!"
I grab Ainar, who's about to jump at them.
"Stop it."
"But! If I don't smash his head...!!"
Right, there's no way to shut that mouth.
I understand her feelings more than anyone.
But it's not the time yet.
And they know it too.
"You guys stop it too."
The dwarf also stops his team members from mocking me any further as I stare at him.
The winner is already decided.
I also give up and get to the point.
"How much will you give me?"
"15 million stones for the test tube."
That's the exact market price.
"And the service fee?"
"I'll give you 5 million stones."
5 million stones just for casting one spell is a great deal.
But...
"7 million."
"You're greedy."
The dwarf glances at the mage from Hans G's team.
It means that we can ask the other mage since there are two of them.
"We, we don't have a test tube."
What?
I originally asked for a higher price so that we could split the service fee with them...
But this changes things.
"I, I'll give you 7 million."
The dwarf readily agrees to my offer at Hans G's words.
However, the train has already left the station.
"Too late."
"...?"
"It just went up to 15 million."
The service fee is now the same as the test tube price.
"Don't be unreasonable, barbarian."
The dwarf mutters incredulously.
It's understandable.
He's short, so it's hard for him to see the world broadly. It's only natural that he doesn't understand the basic principles of the market, which is based on supply and demand.
"Unreasonable? I think it's a reasonable price. Especially since you won't refuse."
"...10 million stones."
"No bargaining. Take it or leave it."
"Think rationally, barbarian. You're going to throw this money away?"
"It's your choice. Just discard the essence. Or give us the money and take it in a test tube."
I push forward with a bold strategy.
It's also the reason why monopolies can be so vicious in a capitalist market.
They can make a profit even with this kind of business practice.
"...Damn it."
The dwarf trembles and then speaks.
"I'll give you 15 million stones."
"Alright, good thi—"
"Not you, them."
The dwarf says, looking at Hans G.
"Yes? Wh, what do you mean...?"
"I'll give you the ownership rights to this essence if you pay that amount."
On-site sale...
Right, so this is his move.
An emotional choice that abandons rationality.
I'm momentarily surprised, but then I realize it's not a big problem.
"We, we don't have that much money right now."
"You can pay in kind."
"Let us discuss it for a moment..."
Hans G has a discussion with his teammates.
It seems like they activated team voice magic, judging by how their mouths are moving.
Of course, it doesn't last long.
And the conclusion isn't much different from what I expected.
"Ev, even so, our equipment..."
With the level of Hans G's team's equipment, at least three of them would have to give up their main equipment to match that amount.
But to give up their equipment in a rift and get an essence that's useless right now?
It doesn't make sense.
"So, so... how about we pa, pay you in the city?"
"...That's not possible."
There's no way these guys from the underground city would give Hans G credit.
The dwarf, cornered, takes a deep breath.
And he looks at me and says in a reluctant voice,
"Barbarian, at the price you said—"
"20 million stones. It just went up again."
"This son of a..."
"Or we can buy the essence for 15 million stones, what do you want to do?"
"...I'll pay 20 million stones."
Although the dwarf curses, it doesn't have much impact on the outcome. It's still a profitable deal for them even if they buy the essence at that price.
About 17 million stones.
'Wait a minute, then we're the ones who profited more?'
Is this the sweetness of a monopoly?
We got the biggest share even though our dice roll was the lowest, a 1.
It's ironic.
______________
Things proceed smoothly after the negotiation ends.
First, we receive payment in kind worth 20 million stones from the dwarf.
Because there's no way he has that much money on him.
For reference, they were going to give us equipment, but I refused.
I took out a pile of unused equipment from my backpack, as if I'd been waiting for this.
Just how much looting have they done?
"Give me potions instead, it's easier to convert to cash."
"...We can't pay that much in potions."
"Then we'll take the rest in equipment."
I demand as many potions as possible, even giving a reason.
It's because we might have to fight them, so it's better to weaken them beforehand.
Tsk, it would have been much easier to deal with them if I had received their currently equipped gear as payment.
"Seven top-grade potions and eleven high-grade potions. If we add the rest of the equipment... it's about right."
The barter is completed without any arguments thanks to Raven, who has a regular appraiser license, and we set up camp in a suitable location.
Ah, we each send one person from our teams to keep watch, so there are three people taking turns.
Hans G, the dwarf, and the bear-like man are the first shift.
And I'm next.
"Yandel, it's your turn."
"Anything happen? Did those two have a suspicious conversation?"
"That Hans guy was just chattering on his own. I think I would be more comfortable and enjoy it more if I were keeping watch alone."
"Right, good work. Go get some rest."
My watch partners are a fairy archer named Meilin and a White Wolf beastman warrior from the dwarf's team...
...but it's a very uncomfortable time.
'Now I understand why he said he would be more comfortable alone.'
The White Wolf warrior doesn't say a word.
And the fairy archer keeps glancing at me with an unfriendly look.
"Do you have something to say?"
"Shouldn't you be a little quieter? Everyone's sleeping."
This is why pointy-eared bastards are...
Why do they hate kind barbarians like us?
They must have a problem with their personalities.
Ah, except for Erwen.
'Enough, let's just focus on keeping watch.'
I'm more wary of them betraying us than a monster ambush. After all, the probability of them backstabbing us has increased significantly.
I don't know about Hans G, but that dwarf bastard is definitely plotting something.
'That's probably why he readily paid in kind.'
Even considering that we have a monopoly, 20 million stones is an unreasonable amount.
But he paid it quite coolly.
As if he has a way to get it back.
'...Well, I guess I'm the same?'
I haven't given up on the essence that's in the test tube yet.
I'm just waiting for the right time.
"Misha, wake up. It's time to switch."
I fall asleep after the uncomfortable watch duty ends, switching with Misha.
And the next morning...
...the exploration resumes.
We spend all our time except for meals searching the forest, and as a result, we're able to find and defeat the remaining two mid-bosses.
「Killed Bicorn. EXP +5」
「Killed Culbeth. EXP +5」
Unfortunately, no essences dropped...
"Huh? Isn't that it? The thing you guys were talking about!"
...but we succeeded in finding the third chapter, which we expected to take another day.
「Character has entered the Shadow Altar.」
A black shadow envelops us as soon as we find the altar.
A giant barrier forms around us.
As befitting the concept of this chapter, my role is also clear.
「The sealed marauder has possessed one of the expedition members.」
Alright, then let the games begin.
"Dwarf, your expression looks strange. Did something happen to your head?"
This bastard first.
-x-X-x-
The rule of the third chapter, the Shadow Altar, is simple.
Find the expedition member possessed by a Doppelganger and offer them to the altar.
If you're right, the Doppelganger possessing the body is eliminated.
And if you're wrong?
'That person becomes incapacitated until the rift is cleared.'
In other words, if you use this well, you can even hinder someone who's in the way.
"Dwarf, your expression looks strange. Did something happen to your head?"
"Hmm, seeing you trying to corner me from the start, you seem more suspicious."
The dwarf, who became the first target, didn't panic and counterattacked.
As expected, he's not an easy opponent.
But the real attack starts now.
"Suspicious? That's strange. When we first met, you clearly acted like you didn't know anything about this place. But now you're talking as if you do?"
"Oh, you're right!"
As Raven agreed, the members of Hans G's team also started expressing their doubts.
It's only natural.
We just arrived here, and I haven't even explained what the third chapter is about yet.
Then how did the dwarf know and counterattack?
"That's..."
The dwarf hesitated for a moment and then blurted out, unable to hide his annoyance,
"I heard it from Hans Krisen."
"...You're lying to escape the situation."
"I, I'm not lying! I told him."
Hans G stepped in and assisted the dwarf just in time.
"Told him? When?"
It's a story I can't understand, having watched them the whole time.
"It, it was when we were keeping watch yesterday."
Indeed, he wasn't within my line of sight at that time.
But I had the bear-like man next to him for this reason.
"Avman, is that true?"
"No way. Those two didn't have that kind of conversation."
"Avman, who was with him, says it's not true. Hans Krisen, why are you covering for the dwarf?"
Hans G waved his hands frantically as I took a threatening step forward.
"I, I'm not covering for him, it's the truth! We used a ma, magic tool to talk back then... That's why Mr. Urikfrit couldn't have known!"
A conversation using a magic tool...
It doesn't seem like he's lying.
Damn it, when did those two become so close?
I almost made a big mistake.
"What did you talk about?"
I need to find out the content of their conversation.
"Th, that's..."
Hans G hesitates as I intentionally unleash my killing intent.
Just as I'm thinking I'm almost there...
"Why should we tell you?"
The dwarf steps forward as if to protect Hans G.
"It was a private conversation. And this should be enough to clear up any doubts about me knowing about this altar."
The dwarf skillfully ends the topic, leaving no room for further discussion.
Of course, my plan hasn't been disrupted yet.
There are countless other ways to attack them.
"Let's talk about each other from now on."
The dwarf is an explorer from Noark, and Hans G is a being called an evil spirit in this world. If I target these points, there's no way their answers will be flawless.
"Dwarf, what grade explorer are you? What about your family? Do you have any siblings?"
"...I don't want to talk about myself."
"So you're refusing."
I grin.
Silence is their right, but they're responsible for the consequences. After all, I have justification for every question here.
"Um, I think it would be better to just answer, Mr. Yandel. I'm not saying this because he's our leader, but there's a Doppelganger here, right?"
Raven provides logical support.
And Hans G's team's mage also agrees with us, judging that this method is correct.
"Let's do that. We can't just randomly throw someone onto the altar. Let's all gather and talk. Then we might be able to figure out who it is. It's not like there's no way to find a Doppelganger."
Public opinion shifts in an instant.
In the end, the dwarf has no choice but to back down.
"...Alright, then what are we going to do?"
Hans G answers the dwarf's question.
"I think verification magic is the best option, right?"
As expected of a player, he suggests the most standard strategy.
That's when the mace warrior from Hans G's team cautiously raises his hand and expresses his doubt.
"Um, but I heard there are quite a few people who are immune to verification magic."
It's a sharp question, despite his ordinary appearance.
Indeed, verification magic doesn't work on everyone.
For example, me.
It didn't work at the guild before.
Raven said it was because of my high magic resistance and my naturally thick mental barrier.
"It doesn't matter if it doesn't work. I heard it doesn't work on Doppelgangers either."
"Ye, yes! That's right! At least we can reduce the number of suspects, can't we?"
"Well, that would be helpful."
No one objects as Raven and Hans G, who have been playing the role of brains throughout the expedition, agree.
And so, the search begins.
"Are you a man?"
"...Why are you asking that?"
"Haha, I'm just double-checking to see if the magic worked properly, so just answer."
"I'm a man, as you can see."
"It's the truth."
The two mages go around and cast verification magic on everyone.
And as a result...
"...Nine people."
Nine people who are immune to verification magic are selected.
[Hans G's team]
Hans G, the mage, the fairy archer.
[Dwarf's team]
The dwarf, the archer, the sorcerer, the priest.
[Bjorn's team]
Me, Raven.
For reference, it's a number that far exceeds my expectations.
I can understand mages and sorcerers with high magic resistance and mental strength, but there are more?
They're all experienced explorers.
'I can't believe it's more than half of the total number...'
Although I'm starting to get a headache, what I need to do hasn't changed.
"Are you a Doppelganger?"
We first ask the same question to those who passed the verification magic, and the number of suspects is reduced significantly as everyone answers 'no'.
"So there's a Doppelganger bastard hiding among the nine of us?"
The gazes we exchange become incomparably sharper than before.
It's an atmosphere that's not bad for me.
"Then I'll start."
As soon as those who answered 'no' are excluded, I swing my sword like a madman.
My targets are only two.
The dwarf and Hans G, the leaders of each team.
"Where did you get the equipment in your backpacks?"
"Why are you asking that?"
"Just answer the question."
"...I won't tell you."
He's pleading the fifth...
That's not bad either.
"Hans Krisen, you seem to know a lot about this forest, where did you get that information?"
"I, I read it in a bo, book."
"What's the title?"
"That is... I won't tell you."
The no comment stack increases with every question.
It's what I intended.
Strictly speaking, they're questions that have nothing to do with the Doppelganger, but appearing as if he's hiding something will definitely seem suspicious to others.
"...No one is answering properly, even though the verification magic didn't work?"
The dwarf chuckles as I mutter meaningfully.
It seems like the aggro worked well.
Even the dwarf, who was being attacked, can't hold back and starts fighting back.
"What essence do you have?"
"...I can't tell you."
"Is it because you can't remember properly since you're a Doppelganger?"
As the dwarf starts attacking, his teammates, who were just watching their leader being beaten up, also join in and attack me.
"Come to think of it, that bastard was the one who started accusing people without any evidence."
"As if he just wants to throw anyone onto the altar."
"And besides, his behavior wasn't even barbarian-like, it was too logical."
I just stand there and take the hits. And then the members of Hans G's team also start asking me questions.
"I heard that Doppelgangers don't have complete memories. Do you remember when we met in the Land of the Dead? What happened back then?"
"That's... I don't remember clearly."
"Hmm, you forgot?"
"...I'm a barbarian."
"Pfft, that's a convenient race."
The fairy archer sneers as I can't answer. It seems like she's annoyed that Hans G was attacked earlier...
Geez, this is why newbies are...
"So, so you're the Doppelganger since you're trying to corner me! Misha! Ainar, don't you think so too?"
"Huh? Uh, uh-huh..."
"It, it must be true since it's what the great warrior Bjorn said!!"
Even my teammates give ambiguous answers, not fully supporting my obviously unreasonable claims.
The gazes towards me turn cold…
…and the moment I've been waiting for finally arrives.
[00:00]
A white light erupts from the altar in the center as the hands of the clock align.
「The Stone of Truth has been generated.」
It's the key item for clearing this chapter.
Raven explains without me having to say anything,
"It's the Stone of Truth. It can be used once to force someone to tell the truth. Even if they're a Doppelganger."
"…Is there a way to obtain more?"
"I heard it appears every midnight. But the Doppelganger's power increases every time you use it."
"We have to use it carefully."
I keep my mouth shut.
As if I'm uneasy.
I check everyone's expressions, and my eyes meet the dwarf's.
"Let's decide by vote. I'm voting for that barbarian. He's suspicious, no matter how I look at it."
The dwarf smirks, trying to screw me over.
Eight people raise their hands in an instant, without even needing a ballot box.
It's more than half.
"…Reconsider. I'm not a Doppelganger."
Although I offer sincere advice, they completely ignore it.
"How do you use this? Ah, is this how you do it?"
The Stone of Truth, which the dwarf is fiddling with, starts emitting a white light.
And in that state, he asks,
"Barbarian, are you a Doppelganger?"
A Doppelganger?
"I'm not a Doppelganger."
I answer as if I've been waiting for this.
And…
Crackle.
…the Stone of Truth, having served its purpose, shatters.
"Mage, what happened?"
"What do you mean, what happened? He told the truth."
It's time to stop acting like an idiot since I've obtained what I wanted.
I stretch and crack my stiff neck.
"That's why I told you to reconsider."
I've obtained the citizenship I needed for my plan.
In other words, no one can suspect or attack me now.
So…
"Dwarf, why did you accuse me of being a Doppelganger? Are you the Doppelganger?"
It's time to start playing politics.
___________________
"That's! Because you were acting suspiciously…!"
The dwarf shouts defensively.
It's understandable.
I was the one who attacked them recklessly, and I was the one who acted suspiciously.
But that's not a reason to let him off the hook.
"What suspicious behavior? I answered all your questions."
"…You didn't say anything about your essence!"
"You're acting like you're from another world. Don't you know how rude it is to ask an explorer what essence they have?"
"Then how do you explain that! What the fairy asked earlier—"
"Didn't I say I forgot?"
I puff out my chest confidently without a shred of shame. No, I'm a barbarian, what are you going to do about it?
"...!"
The dwarf shuts his mouth, finally realizing that he fell for my trick. But could it be that he can't bear to watch his leader being humiliated?
"Enough, barbarian. The vote already shows that you were suspicious."
He's right.
A barbarian being verbally abused by a dwarf!
"That's!! Because you guys were ganging up on me!!"
My indignant roar echoes through the forest.
Although the archer from the dwarf's team says something, it's drowned out by my overwhelming voice.
"Did you even give me time to explain? Who was the one who snatched the stone from Raven and used it?"
"No, that's—"
"I suspect you guys!! Take responsibility and go on the altar!!"
"So, I'm saying I didn't steal it—"
"Take responsibility and go on the altar!!"
The archer, who was muttering, finally shouts with all his might.
"We'll use the Stone of Truth tomorrow!! Isn't that enough?!"
It seems like they've finally realized the advantage of using the Stone of Truth.
But what a shame.
It's too late.
"Right, it's you!!!!"
I take a step forward, not hiding my excitement, as soon as I hear the line I've been waiting for.
The atmosphere turns hostile in an instant.
"Say it again, archer!! You wasted my time, and now you're saying you're going to use the Stone of Truth again? Are you the Doppelganger?"
I change my target from the dwarf to the archer.
This was my original plan.
After all, there's no way I could put the dwarf or the priest, who's a key member, on the altar.
"Come to think of it, it was you! You were the one who kept mocking me and subtly instigating the dwarf every time I said something!!"
"That's not just me, everyone—"
"Take responsibility and go on the altar!! It's not like you're going to die!! We can clear the rift without one archer!!"
My wild shout makes it difficult for him to think rationally.
The archer, who suddenly became the target, turns pale.
But did they find his reaction strange?
"Indeed, that might be the more rational choice."
"…It's not like he's going to die anyway."
Some of the members of Hans G's team start to agree, and in the end, the dwarf steps forward.
"Alright, let's put him on the altar."
"Yes? What do you mean—"
"Enough, listen to me this time. If you're not the Doppelganger."
The archer can't even budge at the dwarf's words, as if the leader's authority is strong.
"Marthan! Are you really going to put him on the altar?"
The dwarf nods firmly, ignoring his companion's anxious gaze.
It's obvious what he's thinking.
'He's trying to turn the tables.'
He's trying to do exactly what I did.
What if the archer isn't a Doppelganger after I forced him onto the altar?
The initiative shifts to them.
'…I can't attack, so he'll probably target Raven.'
It's a strategy to sacrifice the archer and put our mage on the altar.
It's actually advantageous for them.
Mages are also an OP class in PK.
'Idiots.'
They must have thought it was a no-lose situation.
If the archer is a Doppelganger, it's a good thing for them.
But…
'No, there's no way a Doppelganger would willingly go on the altar.'
I try to hide my smile and watch as the archer is dragged to the altar by the dwarf.
"Don't worry too much. You'll be released once we defeat the guardian."
"…I'll be waiting."
The archer stands in front of the altar.
Everyone watches in silence.
Swaaa!
A black light starts emanating from the altar as the archer places his hand on it with a determined expression.
And…
「The soul of expedition member Arka Petrei is sealed.」
The archer's soul is extracted from his body and floats in the air, connected to the altar. His expression and gestures clearly show that he's in pain.
"Mage. No, Hans Krisen. What does this mean?"
"…It, it, it means he's not a Doppelganger."
The dwarf takes a deep breath and closes and opens his eyes. It seems like he's feeling conflicted, even though it was his own decision.
But did he think it wasn't the time for this?
"Barbarian, are you ready to take responsibility for your words?"
The dwarf growls.
So I answer immediately,
"No, why should I take responsibility?"
"Because… because of you… my companion is in that state! According to your logic, it's your turn to be checked!"
Tsk, tsk.
I say, shaking my head in disappointment,
"What kind of childish thing are you saying?"
"…What?"
"Do you think finding a Doppelganger is a game? Be rational and leave your emotions aside."
"...."
The dwarf doesn't answer, even though I'm speaking nonchalantly.
Well, he probably didn't expect to hear this from a barbarian who was shouting and rampaging just a moment ago.
"Grow up, dwarf."
Well, he'll still be short, though.
"Damn it!!"
I calmly reach out and stop the dwarf, who's cursing.
"Wait a minute, you're not going to attack me, are you? If you're not the Doppelganger, there's no reason for you to do that."
The dwarf's body starts trembling.
So I also stop messing with him.
"I'm sorry about your companion. I didn't expect him to go like that. He seemed like a good guy…"
"Stop it."
"…?"
"Enough, get to the point."
"I made a mistake because I was angry. But how about we forget about the past and focus on clearing the rift? We might not even be able to return alive if we lose any more strength here."
For reference, this is the reason why I can act so boldly. Even that dwarf bastard knows it.
That it will only lead to destruction if we fight among ourselves.
"…So how are we going to find it?"
"I think your priest is a bit suspicious—"
"Everyone, stop it!"
That's when the mage from Hans G's team shouts.
His name is… Parteian.
A man with a certain middle-aged charm.
"Let's end this meaningless conflict. I have a way to find the Doppelganger."
It's a line that no one here expected.
__________________
"You have a way?"
Judging by his determined expression, it's not a joke.
"Tell me."
As I urge him, the mage takes out an item from his subspace pocket.
It's a small disc the size of a compass.
I have a hunch as soon as I see it.
No. 7234 Misplaced Trust.
It's a consumable item that prevents anyone within a 10-meter radius from lying.
"You, you had so, something like that…?"
Hans G, a former player, trembles as if he's encountered a natural enemy.
It's an emotion that only I can fully relate to.
"It's not an item you usually use. Well, I've had to use it a few times. And this is the last one. I'm sorry I didn't take it out sooner."
'…But we haven't dealt with that priest bastard yet.'
I cleanly dismiss my regret.
The mage, unable to bear watching us fight among ourselves, took out an item he's been saving.
And it would be strange to refuse to use it now.
There are advantages to finding the Doppelganger early, so it's not bad for me.
"Alright."
"…I agree."
The dwarf also puts aside his hostility towards me and takes a step towards peace.
It seems like they both had a similar thought…
"That's a good idea. Then can everyone gather here?"
As soon as everyone, still suspicious of each other, gathers in the center, the mage uses 'Misplaced Trust'.
The effect only lasts for 10 minutes.
"Then who should we start with?"
"I'll go first."
The dwarf is the first to go.
He has an expression that shows no anxiety, as if he's truly not a Doppelganger.
However, it only lasts for a brief moment.
"Then I'll ask a question first to see if it's working properly."
The mage asks.
Just like when he asked verification questions like 'Are you a woman?' during the verification magic earlier.
As if it's nothing special.
"Where are you from?"
He stepped on a landmine.
'Damn it.'
There's no way the dwarf can answer this question.
"...."
A chilling silence falls.
The corners of the dwarf's mouth twitch uncontrollably.
But did he only realize it now?
"Why aren't you answering? Is there something wrong…?"
The mage stops talking and closes his mouth.
He realized why he can't answer.
"Don't tell me…!"
The moment the mage gapes in disbelief…
…I shout with all my might,
"Battle stations!!!"
We're fucked.
-x-X-x-
If you've ever been hit by a car, you'll know.
It happens in an instant, and it can never be undone.
Just like this moment.
"Battle stations!!!"
The moment my shout pierces the silence...
...the dwarf's axe swings, deeply embedding itself in the mage's shoulder.
Kwagic!
A chilling sound of flesh being torn, a stark reminder of reality.
By the time the sound reaches my ears, my body is already surging forward.
Tadat.
My goal: Raven's rescue.
"Kyaak!"
I quickly close the distance, pull Raven into my arms, and retreat swiftly.
The tank from Hans G's team does the same.
"Both of you, get a grip!!"
The mace warrior, who was standing a good distance away, grabs the fairy archer and Hans G by the scruff of their necks and pulls them behind him.
Thus, a natural encirclement forms.
We have the advantage, both numerically and in terms of strength.
So how will the dwarf try to break free from this unfavorable situation?
As everyone's attention focuses on him...
Thump.
...the dwarf pulls out the axe embedded in the mage's shoulder and bellows a name.
"Hans Krisen!!"
All eyes turn towards him in the tense atmosphere.
But Hans G just trembles, speechless.
The dwarf shouts again, his voice sharp with urgency,
"Are you okay with your secret being revealed?!"
My head spins.
If it's Hans G's secret, there's only one possibility.
"Fine, if that's what you want, I'll make sure you have nowhere to go. Hans Krisen is an evil spirit! I have proof in my backp—"
"You guys! Get away from him!"
I shout a warning, acting on instinct.
If the dwarf truly possesses concrete evidence, then Hans G's betrayal is all but guaranteed.
However...
"A, an evil spirit? I wouldn't believe something like th—"
...too late.
Whoosh!
The lizard summoned by Hans G unleashes a fierce torrent of flames towards the mace warrior.
"Ho... w, why...?"
The mace warrior collapses, engulfed in flames.
"I, I'm sorry."
Hans G squeezes his eyes shut and runs towards the dwarf.
And then he utters words that make no sense.
"Wh, what are you doing! Me, Meilin, come over here too!"
"...Wh, what are you talking about! You did something so terrible, and you're asking me to come over there?!"
"Do, don't tell me you're going to abandon me? We, we came from the same place. We have to stick together! I, I've been doing all the dangerous work all this time!!"
The conversation is so unexpected.
"Ha, this damn kid is seriously..."
The moment I see the fairy archer's contorted expression, the entire situation becomes crystal clear.
'Don't tell me, both of them are players.'
Even the dwarf looks surprised, so it seems like he was unaware of this as well.
He probably just happened to find some evidence and used it to threaten Hans G during their watch.
"Dwarf! You better keep your promise to take him to Noark!"
"...Of course! Help me!"
The fairy archer, left with no other choice after Hans G's betrayal, shouts in frustration and moves towards the dwarf.
'This is truly messed up.'
A headache throbs in my temples.
Just moments ago, we had the numerical advantage.
Now, we're the ones outnumbered.
Hans G's team's Guide has already fainted from the shock, and even if he wakes up, his combat ability is negligible.
Furthermore, even if we manage to defeat them in this dire situation, it doesn't mean all our problems are solved.
A bleak future awaits, where the five of us must face the boss battle alone.
'Damn it, and there's a Doppelganger bastard hiding among us!'
It's a situation beyond difficult, a situation that defies description.
'Even for the Hans effect, isn't this a bit much?'
The words escape my lips involuntarily, but...
So what?
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
We have no choice but to fight.
__________________
There's no need for lengthy exchanges.
We're long past the point of resolving this through dialogue.
Thud!
The moment I activate [Gigantification] and charge...
...a gray vortex engulfs me.
Swaaaaaaaaa!
It's one of the many offensive spells the sorcerer possesses.
Even with my resilience, I can't avoid taking damage if I tank it head-on.
But we're a team, remember?
"Tayrun Sheardiem."
A magical barrier envelops me.
It's what we comfortably call 'Mana Shield' in the game.
This is why mages are crucial in PvP.
Mana efficiency is so poor that it's a waste to use during hunts, but against humans, it's a different story.
The consumption cost is high for both sides.
Whoosh.
When my vision clears, the dwarf stands before me.
Thud.
He leaps high, despite his short legs, and slams his shield into my face.
The damage itself isn't significant, but my giant form is pushed back helplessly.
It's due to his [Polarity Shield] skill.
It's a skill that grants a knockback bonus when pushing and reduces the impact when blocking.
Swoosh.
As soon as I'm pushed back, leaving a long skid mark, the beastman swordsman thrusts his sword at me.
He's aiming for my vulnerable eyes.
"Not a chance!"
Misha, who was shielded behind me, darts forward and parries the beastman swordsman's blade.
Okay, I'll leave him to Misha.
Whoosh!
I block the incoming arrow with my shield and swing my mace down towards the dwarf's head as he lands.
But what's this?
Clang!
It's a blow enhanced with [Swing].
Even though he raised his shield to protect his head, it should have been crushed.
That's what happened when I fought the Doppelganger.
Why?
And why is his shield still intact?
'Damn it.'
I quickly identify the cause.
An earring that shimmers with light, just like the shield.
'...No. 2988?'
It's only natural that the result is different from the Doppelganger's.
Numbered Items can't be copied.
It's no surprise that there's a massive difference with a high-grade item like that.
Kwaaang!
At that moment, an explosion booms from behind the dwarf.
It's the bear-like man's explosive arrow.
There are no casualties as Hans G's 'Earthberg' summon conjures a wall just in time, but…
Rumble!
…the wall crumbles, and Raven's magic intercepts.
Kwaaang!
'Lightning Bolts' split into dozens of strands and rain down from the sky.
Hans G, struck by one, collapses.
Of course, it's a fleeting victory.
They have a priest, after all.
Whoosh!
Hans G, regaining consciousness in seconds, unleashes a torrent of flames with his summon.
He's targeting our backline.
Raven just cast a spell, and I can't block it from this angle, so the bear-like man's tank summon, Woongie, takes the hit head-on.
[Woong!]
Woongie roars as if it's nothing.
Summoned Spirit Beasts have high magic resistance.
'Phew, team battles are on a whole other level.'
The priest of Karui also seems to have finished his preparations and starts summoning.
[Grrr...]
An army of undead pours out from an ominous portal that materialized in the air.
Coincidentally, we have the perfect opponent.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
Ainar charges forward, swinging her greatsword without needing any instructions from me.
Bang! Kwaang! Kwaang!
Explosions erupt with each [Double Slash], sparks flying. And if she sustains any injuries, she regenerates with [Wings of Greed].
Of course, if she keeps spamming skills like this, she'll run out of MP...
「Ainar Frenelin has killed an enemy.」
「Soul Power is recovered due to [Devour].」
...but the 'Slayer' engraving Ainar received is specialized in mob farming.
Kwaaang! Rumble!
Whoosh!
Various skills are unleashed from all sides, and the resulting cacophony fills the air.
It's not like an individual duel where everyone focuses solely on their own opponent; they move fluidly, sometimes retreating to support their companions.
How much longer will this fierce battle continue, with no clear victor?
"Do you know?"
The dwarf, smashing his knockback shield into my face, speaks for the first time during the fight.
I consider ignoring him, but decide to indulge him.
"That you're about to die?"
"No, that you're the core of your team."
He's stating the obvious.
I've been darting around, disrupting their formation and inflicting damage, deflecting all incoming arrows and magic with my shield.
Meanwhile, the dwarf's only contribution has been to tail me and try to restrain me.
"In other words, if both you and I disappear at the same time, our side has a much bigger advantage."
"...What?"
The dwarf grins and bellows,
"Jainun! Now!"
Jainun.
The name of the priest of Karui, the one the dwarf, lacking team voice magic, has been repeatedly calling to issue commands.
「Character has entered the special terrain [Crossroads of Fate].」
The surroundings, ablaze with explosions and spells, plunge into darkness.
The intense sounds of battle vanish, leaving only an eerie silence.
I can't help but let out a hollow laugh.
So that's what he was planning...
'He used Crossroads of Fate?'
Does he really think I'm a fool?
__________________
Crossroads of Fate.
The effect of this ability, which only priests of Karui can wield, is straightforward.
It transports two designated targets to a secluded space.
This skill can only be used on two individuals who are hostile towards each other. They can only return to the outside world when one of them is victorious or the ability is deactivated externally...
Click.
The surroundings brighten with the sound of a switch being flipped.
I find myself standing atop a colossal statue, towering like a skyscraper. To be more precise, I'm standing on the palm of its hand.
Looking up, I see the statue's face gazing down at me.
The face of Karui, the evil god, a sight I've only encountered in books.
"You're surprisingly calm."
The dwarf, standing about 10 meters away, comments nonchalantly.
Finally, I can't hold back my question any longer.
"What makes you so confident in bringing me here?"
"...Do you know about this place?"
Of course, I do.
This is a duel arena.
A place where you have to fight based solely on individual skill, cut off from any outside assistance.
But to bring me here?
"It's absurd."
The dwarf frowns at my reaction.
"You overestimate yourself, barbarian."
Right, so he really believed that.
That I could at least hold out for a while.
That they would win outside and release me.
Smirk.
I consider retorting...
...but time is precious.
And I can't find a reason to bother.
Actions speak louder than words.
Like a barbarian.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!!"
No time for talk.
I end the conversation and charge towards the enemy.
Tadat!
The dwarf retreats, as if he's committed to a defensive strategy.
It's a futile struggle.
How far can he possibly run with those short legs?
Indeed, the dwarf also seems to realize it's a lost cause and raises his shield.
Whoosh.
The shield swings towards me, aiming to push me back.
But the only reason I was able to withstand it before was because his companions were constantly distracting me.
Whoosh.
I simply twist my body to dodge and swing my mace down.
Clang!
A clear, ringing sound of impact reverberates from the shield he raised above his head.
Of course, there's no problem.
Clang!
If one hit doesn't work, two will.
Clang!
If two don't suffice, three will.
Clang!
This feels like a game of whack-a-mole.
The dwarf's shield remains steadfast, no matter how many times I strike it.
"That's why... I told you, didn't I? I can endure."
Although his breathing has become ragged...
Anyway, so he really believed that.
I feel a twinge of pity for him.
I can't believe he actually fell for my bluff.
Clang!
After thirteen more strikes...
Whoosh!
...I feign another swing with my mace and then swiftly reach out towards a specific spot.
And...
"...!"
...I yank his earring.
While a Numbered Item wouldn't be damaged by this level of force...
...flesh isn't a Numbered Item.
Rip.
The earring tears free as his earlobe splits.
'No. 2988 Guardian Corps Insignia.'
It doesn't offer any stat boosts or usage effects, but it grants a whopping 50% shock absorption bonus to shields when equipped. It's a godsend of an item.
I never expected to acquire this core item like this.
"...Give it back!!"
The dwarf, finally grasping the situation, charges at me like a madman. Of course, my only response is a swing of my massive mace.
Kwaaang!
A thunderous boom erupts from the shield as he instinctively protects his head.
Phew, that's the stuff.
It feels like the pent-up frustration is finally being released.
In that spirit, one more time.
Kwaaang!!
The dwarf staggers violently, clutching his half-crushed shield.
Kwagic!
I seize the opportunity presented by his lowered guard and bring the mace down on his head.
The dwarf crumples to the ground.
However, the space remains stable, indicating it's not an instant kill.
'Did he just faint?'
He's a tough one, I'll give him that.
'Anyway, that worked out well.'
I rummage through the dwarf's bag and retrieve a specific item.
It's the test tube containing the Manticore's essence.
As I look at it, I suddenly recall his words from when we were rolling the dice.
[You're lucky.]
The line that fits me the least.
It's a bit ironic.
He uttered those words, and now he's on the verge of death, while I'm in the opposite position.
It makes me wonder if luck is merely a precursor to misfortune.
But...
"I can't believe the test tube in his expandable backpack survived intact."
I chuckle and mutter,
"Lucky me."
This much is acceptable.
Because everything else is the fruit of my own efforts.
「The essence of [Manticore] seeps into the character's soul.」
I down the essence in the test tube in one gulp.
And at that moment...
Rumble!
...tremors ripple through the space.
No wonder he was still alive after taking that hit.
He's finally dead.
'The corpse will return to its original location, so I'll deal with it later...'
My vision blurs, and when I open my eyes, I see the familiar forest.
I quickly assess my surroundings.
Less than five minutes have passed since I was transported to that place.
Kwaaang! Crackle! Boom!
The battle still rages fiercely.
But the location of the battlefield has shifted since I was gone.
About 70 meters away.
I need to rejoin my companions as quickly as possible and provide support.
'Hmm, this distance seems about right.'
So I activate the newly acquired ability.
The active skill embedded in the Manticore's yellow essence.
'Leap.'
Feeling a lightness course through my body, I launch myself into the air with a powerful jump.
And...
「Jumping Power is temporarily increased by 10 times, and a powerful shockwave is released upon landing.」
...my body, arcing through the air in a steep parabola, slams into the heart of the dwarf's remaining forces like a meteor.
Kwaaang!
I finally have a movement skill.