"Are you awake?"
Misha Kaltstein opened her eyes, tasting the lingering bitterness of the potion on her tongue.
The first person she saw was Avman.
"…Wh, what happened? Did we win?"
Misha asked as soon as she opened her eyes and tried to recall what had happened.
Her memories were fragmented.
They were broken and incomplete.
[Protect Raven!!]
The Corpse Collector, transformed into a skeleton, charging towards them.
Being knocked back by him without being able to withstand a single blow.
And…
Kwaaang! Kwaang!
…opening her eyes to a thunderous roar and seeing Bjorn on the ground, desperately protecting them.
That was her last memory.
"I don't know if we won, but at least we're safe for now. The enemies have all retreated."
"Really? That's a relief. But the, the casualties…?"
"...."
Avman frowned.
As if there were casualties.
But did he realize his mistake after seeing her eyes?
He quickly continued,
"Ah, don't think about anything strange. Everyone on our team survived. It's the fairy who died."
"Fairy…?"
Her heart skipped a beat.
"Don't tell me it's Erwen?"
Erwen Fornachi di Tersia.
Although they weren't exactly on good terms, she felt a pang of sadness deep down.
"No, it's her older sister who died. She hugged her sister at the last moment and protected her from the explosion."
"…Then Erwen?"
"She would have died too if she had been a little slower. I don't know if it's a good thing, but she's unconscious right now. I'm worried if she'll be okay when she wakes up."
"I see…"
Misha then heard about the other companions' conditions.
Raven was also unconscious, and Ainar, who woke up a bit earlier, went to Bjorn.
"Don't go. I also tried to stay by his side, but the priestess kicked me out, saying it would interfere… You wouldn't listen even if I told you. It's that way."
Misha asked Avman for directions and headed towards that place.
The Goblin Forest was brightly illuminated by the flames that were rising everywhere after the battle ended.
Thud, thud.
Misha walked through the explorers.
She saw explorers resting on the ground, explorers crying, explorers drinking blood-soaked alcohol with joy, and those who were busy moving the immobile corpses into the flames.
"Oh! It's the cat girl from Yandel's team!"
Explorers called out to her as she was walking.
"Are you going to see Yandel? He's over there."
"Hmm, I don't think it's a good idea to go."
"Right, you must be worried since you're companions."
They all said meaningful things.
But some of them spoke casually.
"Ah, don't worry, there's no way he would die."
"Bjorn, son of Yandel, is immortal!!"
"I heard he almost killed the Corpse Collector this time? And they said they would have won if it weren't for the Ruin Scholar. He'll be incredibly famous when we get out."
The explorers acknowledged Bjorn's greatness.
Misha's steps quickened.
She soon reached a tent.
Many explorers were gathered in front of it.
"Ah, Miss Kaltstein is here too."
The first person she saw was Ainar, arguing with Kyle Pebrosk.
"Please excuse me for sitting down. I'm actually pushing myself just to stay awake."
"Why won't you let us in?!"
"I told you, didn't I? The priestess-nim is risking her life to save him. So please lower your voice. If you really want to help him."
"But…!"
"Ainar, stop it!"
Misha quickly approached and stopped Ainar.
She knew it wouldn't help, even though she didn't know the details.
"Mi, Misha! You're awake!"
Although Ainar greeted her happily, Misha asked Kyle about Bjorn's condition.
It was horrifying just to hear about it.
His entire face was covered in poison, and his eyes and everything had melted away.
"It seems like the poison melted his bones and even seeped into his brain."
She felt suffocated.
She felt dizzy, and the world spun as if she was drunk.
That's when…
"…You can come in now."
…the priestess came out of the tent with a pale face.
Misha entered without even thanking her.
"Bjorn…"
She saw him sleeping on a makeshift bed made of several sleeping bags.
He looked fine on the outside.
Although there were burn scars on his face, there weren't any serious injuries.
"The scars will heal over time. My abilities aren't enough to…"
"Th, thank you…"
"You're welcome. What have I done compared to what he did? Anyway, I need to rest, so I'll be…"
The priestess left, and Misha knelt next to Bjorn.
And she stroked his face.
She suddenly remembered the time they were chased by the Floor Master on the 3rd floor.
But it was different from back then.
He was sleeping peacefully as if he had done everything he could.
She thought he was a hero.
It was the same afterwards.
Bjorn had achieved many things and received recognition from others.
She had been proud and happy.
But…
"Why… why are you…"
What about his face now?
He looked sad and pained.
As if he was blaming himself.
Clench.
Misha clenched her fists, unable to finish her sentence.
She thought she knew why.
No, she couldn't not know.
He was the man she had been watching for a long time.
'Erwen…'
He must be blaming himself because of her.
Swoosh.
Misha took her hand off Bjorn's body.
Even though he wasn't conscious, his body twitched as if having a seizure whenever her hand touched his skin.
Just how much did he suffer?
For this man of steel to be like this.
"Now…"
Misha closed her eyes and prayed earnestly.
Although God had never answered her prayers, she still clasped her hands together and begged.
She begged him to prevent this man from being acknowledged.
___________________
When I woke up, all my teammates were gathered.
We were briefly catching up when the priestess entered and checked my condition.
My vision was fine.
My sense of smell was normal.
But my body wouldn't move properly.
I could feel everything, but I couldn't put strength into my arms and legs, and they trembled if I tried to force it.
"It's a common symptom when you injure your brain. You'll be fine if you rest for about a month."
"I see. Thank you."
"You're welcome. I'll bring Mr. Pebrosk since you're awake."
I heard from my companions what happened after I collapsed while the priestess went to get Kyle.
Less than an hour left until Day 7 ended.
"Were there any attacks?"
"No."
The Ruin Scholar and the Clown bastard, who survived, didn't return while I was unconscious.
Well, what could they do?
They would need time to recover, and they were also outnumbered since we burned all the corpses the Clown had left behind.
And it would be difficult for them to call for backup.
It would take at least a day to reach the 3rd floor from here.
And two days to go up and come back down.
'In the first place, that Ruin Scholar bastard wouldn't go even if the Clown begged him. He's not the type to be motivated by revenge.'
Wait a minute.
I suddenly remembered something I had forgotten while talking to my companions.
How could I have not remembered until now?
"Ah! Erwen, what happened to Erwen?"
A brief silence fell at my urgent question.
My companions looked at me with stiff expressions.
"Right, she's dead."
"No, it's her older sister who died."
"Older sister?"
I heard the details from the bear-like man.
A short story about how she used a short-range teleportation skill at the last moment and sacrificed herself to protect her younger sister.
I was reminded of the weight of death.
It was truly a fleeting world.
"...."
It had happened in a split second.
No one could have stopped it, and Daria didn't even have time to leave a last will and testament.
It's a good thing I heard it beforehand.
"Where's Erwen now?"
"…She's there."
"There?"
"Yes. There."
I wanted to see her.
But my body tilted as I tried to get up.
"Give me your arm."
I barely managed to leave the tent with the bear-like man's help.
Kyle was there.
"You're awake."
I slowly walked towards where the battle took place, talking to Kyle.
"There are a lot of people, what's going on?"
"They're the ones who came up after the battle ended. About a thousand people in four groups."
"A thousand…?"
"We left marks along the way, didn't we? They followed us east as soon as they formed their groups, and then they followed the marks all the way here."
I see.
They should have come sooner.
Then…
'What are you thinking?'
I dismissed my regret and resentment and continued walking.
It was pointless to dwell on the past.
"Oh, it's Bjorn, son of Yandel!!"
Explorers who recognized me approached me and talked as I was walking with Kyle.
They said we should have a drink later.
Or that they were the leader of a certain clan and would definitely repay their debt.
Some even thanked me, saying they would come running if I was ever in trouble.
But there were no words of comfort.
"…Don't look at them too harshly. There's a saying, 'heroes don't receive comfort'."
I don't know if such a proverb exists in this world.
But I didn't blame them.
They had also suffered many losses.
They were just trying to lighten the mood because it was hard.
"Mister…"
I saw Erwen when we reached our destination.
She was sitting there, hugging her sister's body, which was burned and hardened. Her face was covered in blood and dirt, and tear stains were visible.
"Come here."
Erwen shook her head.
"It's almost time to go down. Are you going to stay here alone?"
"Alone… no."
She let go of Avman's arm and staggered towards Erwen.
And I patted her on the back.
"Listen to me. I'm your guardian now."
"…Yes?"
I told her the last will and testament I heard from Daria.
It wasn't a long story.
She said to take care of her sister if she died.
For reference, she said it to me before the royal family even escaped through Dimensional Gate, so maybe she had a hunch.
That something like this might happen.
"Mister… my sister, my sister…! She's not moving anymore. She can't talk. She's cold and stiff. I, I couldn't even do anything for her…!"
Erwen hugged me tightly.
"What… what am I going to tell my sister? That my sister is also dead? Th, that it's because of me?"
I just stood there and listened to her words.
I didn't say anything comforting, like it wasn't her fault or that it was her sister's choice.
I just waited for her until the end.
After some time…
"Yandel, it's time to go."
…it was time to go down to the 1st floor.
I gathered her sister's body with Erwen.
It was better than Dwarkey's case.
At least we had a mage who could use the 'Distortion' spell now.
We would be able to hold a funeral in the city.
"Let's go, home."
I returned to where my team was, leading Erwen. Even Misha and Ainar, who weren't on good terms with her, didn't say anything.
No, they actually seemed like they wanted to comfort her, but they couldn't approach her because they were worried it might hurt her more.
'It's my first time seeing Ainar like that.'
We then stood in front of the portal that was opening in the center of the Goblin Forest.
[23:50]
The clock indicated the end of our long journey.
"Let's go back!!"
"Waaaaaaaaa!!"
Starting with the teams that were in the center, everyone started going down to the 1st floor. Even though Verzak was scary, he wouldn't appear in less than 10 minutes.
"Yandel! I'll see you in the city!"
"You remember my name, right? I'll definitely visit you again."
The explorers in front of me also entered the portal, and then it was our turn.
「Entered 1st Floor Crystal Cave.」
The cave felt even more eerie than before.
I continued checking the time as we moved forward to make way for the other explorers.
[23:59]
Only 1 minute left until the labyrinth closed.
It didn't feel real.
Was it really over?
Thump!
Right, it must be.
Even if Verzak appeared now, there was nothing we could do.
"Those damn royal bastards."
"I won't even piss in their direction when we get back."
Anger towards the royal family erupted from the explorers who were certain of their survival.
Geez, they should be more careful with their words.
"Don't say anything strange when we get back."
I warned my companions not to badmouth the royal family in front of others.
That's when…
「The labyrinth is closed.」
「Character is being transported to Lafdonia.」
…a white light started to fill my vision.
The light of the outside world that I had longed for.
Thump!
The light soon disappeared, and a clear sky filled my vision.
I blankly scanned my surroundings.
'They're really all dead.'
The Dimensional Plaza, which was always bustling, was unprecedentedly empty.
Phew, just how many died?
"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"
I naturally looked towards one spot as I heard cheers erupting from everywhere.
"It's a Dimensional Gate!"
"Those bastards!"
In the center of the plaza where the Dimensional Gate was open…
…hundreds of Dimensional Gates were opening, and those who had abandoned us were appearing one by one.
They all looked the same as back then.
Well, it's only natural since the time you exit is synchronized even if you come out through a Dimensional Gate.
'They have no idea what we went through.'
I couldn't help but complain inwardly as I saw them looking so fine.
That's when…
Swaaaaaaaaa!
…a giant magic circle appeared in the center of the plaza where the Dimensional Gates were open.
"Uh, uh?"
Time suddenly slowed down.
But 'it' happened in a split second.
Thump!
The knights and the elites of the clans, who were flustered.
The explorers who sensed something was off and quickly created distance.
And…
Kwaaang!
…an explosion.
Swaaaaaaaaa!
Flames carried by the wind push me back.
I fall to the ground and quickly look up, and I see a crimson pillar of fire rising to the sky.
It's like watching the end of the world.
A voice suddenly replays in my head.
[Congratulations. You're the only winner.]
It was the last thing the Ruin Scholar said to me.
-x-X-x-
The absolute monarch, the founding king, also known as the Immortal King.
Ravigion III.
After the death of the king who ruled Lafdonia for thousands of years, the newly crowned King of Change implemented many policies to erase the deeply rooted remnants of his predecessor.
One representative example was the revision of the calendar.
One year, thirteen months, 365 days.
To make it easier to calculate the cycle of the labyrinth's opening, one month was fixed at 30 days, and a 13th month with only 5 days was created to adjust the remaining days.
He also modified the portal to change the last labyrinth cycle of the year to 35 days.
Of course, there was controversy among scholars.
They argued that it wasn't practical to waste 5 days every year for the sake of intuition.
However, the King of Change steadily gained public favor by holding grand festivals every 13th month, and as the years passed, the controversy subsided as people adapted to the new calendar.
Ah, he also changed the era name twice.
At first, it was taken from the King of Change's name, but because it was long and difficult to pronounce, the people used the king's nickname, and naturally, the royal family also started using that name.
And so, time passed—
On the 2nd day of the 5th month of the 154th year of the Change Era…
…seven pillars of fire erupted from each Dimensional Plaza, engulfing the skies above Lafdonia. It was a disaster that would be recorded in history books by the hands of scribes and remembered for a long time.
__________________
"Damn it."
I grab the side of the bed and struggle to sit up.
And I leave the room, using the crutches I placed next to the bed.
Ugh, damn stairs.
"Bjorn! Why didn't you call me? Why are you struggling alone?"
Misha, who was cooking on the 1st floor, saw me and came to help.
This really makes me feel like a patient.
Ah, am I a patient?
They said I needed to rest for a month, but I still can't put strength into my arms and legs properly.
"Here, sit down. This is your first proper meal since we came back, right? I put in some effort today."
I catch my breath for a moment, holding a spoon, while Misha goes to get Ainar.
'It's already been three days.'
Three days have passed since that day.
Of course, it doesn't feel real.
We had to go to the royal palace and give statements about what happened in the labyrinth on the first day we came back, even though we were all exhausted, and then I just slept after returning home.
'…Those crazy bastards.'
I still shudder when I remember the moment the pillars of fire erupted.
I can't believe they were aiming for an empty house robbery.
I never even imagined they would set a trap in the center of the plaza where the Dimensional Gates open.
And in all seven plazas, at that.
'…What's going to happen now?'
The damage we suffered was minimal since we exited normally when the labyrinth closed, but the 3rd Royal Knight Order, as well as many large clans, were literally annihilated.
Of course, there were survivors.
Some of them, who were in the outer areas of the center, managed to survive by immediately retreating as soon as the magic circle started glowing.
There were about a hundred of them, I heard.
Ah, for reference, that's the total number from all seven Dimensional Plazas.
It's a bit ironic.
[A good commander isn't someone who makes perfect choices. It's someone who makes the choices they have to make.]
Those who made the choices they had to make died.
And those who were abandoned survived after fighting desperately for days without proper sleep.
Their positions were reversed overnight.
What would have happened if I had listened to him and abandoned my companions to escape?
"I would have died."
Misha's voice came from behind as I muttered those words involuntarily.
"Huh? What did you say?"
"It's nothing. Where's Ainar?"
"She's not budging even if I hit her."
"She must be really tired."
"Yeah. I'm just going to make another one when she wakes up."
Geez, she's tired too.
Misha took care of everything while we were sleeping, even waking up to cook for us. And she even got me crutches from somewhere.
She's a companion I can't help but rely on.
"Why aren't you eating?"
I came to my senses, staring blankly at Misha, and picked up my spoon.
It tasted like the end of a hard day.
"…What are we going to do about Erwen?"
Misha asked as the meal was almost over.
Erwen went to the fairy sanctuary with her sister's body after the first day's investigation.
"Well, she said she would visit us after the funeral, so I'm planning to talk to her then."
"Hmm, really?"
Misha, who was giving a lukewarm response, suddenly said,
"How about we just bring her here?"
What? Is she testing me?
Or just drawing a line beforehand?
Various thoughts crossed my mind, but it didn't seem like that kind of tone.
"What do you mean?"
"That… she lived with her sister, right? It will be hard for her to stay there. But I'm a bit worried about having her live alone."
"So?"
"Well, we can't enter the labyrinth with six people, but I think it's right to look after her until she recovers."
Ah, right, this is the kind of person she is.
I teased her jokingly since I was proud.
"I thought you didn't like fairies?"
"Eek, what do you take me for? Spit it all out, everything you just ate!"
Misha glared at me, grumbling.
It was a strange feeling.
Just a moment ago, my heart felt heavy with all sorts of thoughts…
"Why are you laughing? It's creepy."
"I'm just grateful."
"...Ugh, suddenly."
…but I felt better now.
Misha turned away and gulped down water as if annoyed.
I silently watched her.
Honestly, if it weren't for the ears and tail on her head, she would just look like an ordinary human.
Her short red hair had grown a bit longer since we first met.
A sharp nose and slightly upturned eyes.
Although you could tell she was a bit of an airhead just by talking to her for a few minutes, she looked cold and arrogant when I first saw her.
"...."
"...."
I belatedly realized that it was quiet.
An awkward silence filled the kitchen.
"I…"
That's when Misha was about to say something…
Knock, knock, knock.
…we heard a knock on the front door.
"I'll get it."
"...Okay, I'll clean up the table."
I walked to the front door with my crutches and opened it, and a welcome face was standing there.
"Kyle Pebrosk."
"Haha, it's good to see you. Did you rest well?"
"I just slept as soon as I came back and just woke up."
"Then do you have time to talk?"
"Of course. Come in."
Kyle entered the house as I stepped aside. And he greeted Misha, who was cleaning up the table.
"Oh! Mr. Kyle?"
"I'm sorry, Miss Kaltstein. It seems like I interrupted your quality time."
"Eek, don't tease me! We're not like that."
"Hmm, you're not? Then I apologize."
Kyle apologized as if he really didn't know.
Misha glanced at me and then turned away and continued cleaning.
So we sat down on the sofa in the living room.
"Actually, I wanted to visit sooner, but as you know, I've been busy."
"I understand. After that incident…"
"Right, that's right…"
An awkward silence fell as we mentioned that incident.
Misha then placed cookies she had bought on the coffee table and told us to talk comfortably before returning to her room.
"Oh, these are from Ranumus Bakery?"
"Really? It must be a famous place."
The atmosphere changed thanks to that.
I spoke more comfortably,
"I want to hear about everything, if you have time."
"We have quite a bit of time until the next schedule, but everything?"
"The Ruin Scholar. What happened with that old man?"
It was a story I was curious about but couldn't hear.
I woke up right before Day 7 ended, and I had to look after Erwen.
And the Dimensional Plaza that day was pure chaos.
"Ah, you're talking about that…"
Kyle took a bite of the cookie and started talking.
There were many parts I couldn't understand since it was a story about a battle between mages, but to summarize…
He lost in a one-on-one.
He was overwhelmed by an overwhelming combination of magic before he could even properly use 'Awakening', which he had been preparing for years.
He activated the spell in an incomplete state and managed to inflict some damage…
"I thought I had finally caught up after all that effort, but I was mistaken. No, the gap seemed even wider than before."
…but Kyle faced a wall.
A wall he could never overcome.
What was even more humiliating was that he survived despite that.
"…He said my talent was a waste. Isn't that funny? I wasn't even his opponent. He probably wouldn't have even taken that much damage if he hadn't tried to save me."
Kyle's expression was filled with shadows when he finished his story.
"It must have been a difficult topic to talk about, thank you for telling me."
"I thought you should know. You might become their target because of this incident."
Phew, so he also thinks that way.
"The royal family upgraded the Ruin Scholar's threat level by one after this incident. He's right below the captain now. Honestly, I think he should be considered on the same level as the captain after experiencing him firsthand… but they don't seem to think so, no matter how many times I tell them."
"They won't know until they experience it themselves."
A mage who can pierce through the magic resistance setup I barely managed to complete with a normal attack.
Just how many monsters like that are there in this world?
If we ever encounter him in the labyrinth, we'll be wiped out in minutes.
"Anyway, I wanted to warn you to be careful."
Although it seemed like the Ruin Scholar bastard wouldn't bother coming after me for revenge, considering his personality…
The Clown was a different story.
"What happened to the Corpse Collector?"
"There's no news yet. I heard he was fatally wounded before you left, but he's probably alive."
"…I see."
The Clown was at least better off.
He lost his army of thousands of corpses.
It would take a long time to recover, so we at least have time to grow.
"Ah, so how many survivors are there?"
"You mean the ones who escaped through Dimensional Gate?"
"Of course. I heard about a hundred people survived."
Kyle sighed at my words.
"To be precise, 103 people. I'm not sure if we can even call them survivors."
"What do you mean?"
Kyle then explained, using mage jargon.
To summarize…
"So you're saying it's a unique spell with dark magic, so even divine power can't heal it properly?"
"That's right. They're all unconscious right now. We don't know when they'll wake up. Or if they even can."
"Geez, that's messed up."
After the talk about the survivors, we had a conversation about 'that incident'.
How did it even happen?
Kyle, who could be considered a high-ranking official in the royal family, told me everything he knew without hiding anything.
"We were also confused at first. It's a spell that would take at least a few months to prepare, even if you knew about it, so how could they prepare something like that in the plaza in just one day?"
The question everyone had, including me, on that day.
The answer was simple.
"It turns out they drew the magic circle in the sewers to avoid detection."
As expected of those underground dwellers, they did it underground.
"According to the investigation, there was nothing wrong with Noark's barrier. In other words, it means they have a way to come out, or they had people smuggled out beforehand."
I smiled awkwardly at his guess.
It would probably be the latter.
For example…
'Amelia.'
A spy from Noark who infiltrated the city.
Until now, it was ambiguous to call her an enemy.
I thought their hatred was directed towards the royal family, not me.
But…
'I guess it's right to consider her as an enemy now.'
She would continue working for Noark, and if I'm unlucky, I might lose my life because of it.
Unless I enter Noark.
"Then let's get to the point."
"The point?"
"The situation in the city isn't good. Many of the key personnel who maintain this city are dead. If this continues, the economy will collapse."
It was something I also expected.
Explorers are miners who extract resources from the labyrinth.
Although knights are strong, they can't even hold a candle to explorers in this aspect.
But the high-ranking explorers are all dead.
Well, there are some large clans that boycotted…
…and some high-ranking explorers who were observing the situation because they didn't feel safe even after the identification tags were introduced…
But the real problem was something else.
"They probably won't enter the labyrinth anymore. At least not until they're certain it's safe."
An unsafe labyrinth.
It's a ridiculous expression, but I understand.
Less than two thousand explorers returned alive from this cycle.
Who would enter the labyrinth and mine magic stones in this situation?
"…It can't be helped. Until now, the identification tags and the 3rd Royal Knight Order reassured the explorers, but now the truth has been revealed."
The knights, who said they would protect us from Noark in the labyrinth, opened Dimensional Gates with the large clans. And they abandoned tens of thousands of explorers and escaped.
"It's shameful, but someone even said this during the meeting. That it might have been better if there were no survivors at all."
I smiled bitterly at Kyle's words.
The more I experience it, the more I realize it's a cruel world.
Well, nothing changes by complaining.
"So now I have to be wary of the royal family on top of the Ruin Scholar and the Corpse Collector?"
"Haha, there's no way."
Kyle waved his hand at my concern, which was half-joking.
"You wouldn't know since you were just staying at home, but you've become a very important person to the royal family."
"…Explain in detail."
"Your story is spreading among the survivors who were with you on that journey. In a few days, there probably won't be anyone in this city who doesn't know who you are. You're practically a saint who put the Corpse Collector in that state all by yourself!"
"…Alone? Please, don't spread that rumor."
"You're a humble one."
No, it's not humility, it's because I'm burdened.
I'm just a good guy who worked hard at the front.
It would be different if it were just that, but this is a fame I can't handle.
If we're talking about fighting alone, it was actually the Clown.
He was pushing back the main force, which consisted of hundreds of mid-level explorers, with his corpse army even while fighting our team.
'Come to think of it, he's a real monster.'
I organized my fleeting thoughts and returned to the main topic.
"So what does that have to do with the royal family? There are countless explorers at my level."
"But there aren't many symbolic explorers like you."
"I don't understand what you mean."
"There's already distrust towards the royal family, isn't there? It's obvious that this incident will be the trigger. The royal family judged that if you become their rallying point, it might spread into a huge fire…"
Damn it.
"…Huh? Why that expression?"
I answered honestly,
"Because it sounds like you're saying they'll eliminate me."
It was my 100% sincere thought.
But Kyle just laughed, as if he knew about my concern.
"Don't worry. They've already decided on how they'll treat you during the meeting."
They've already decided?
Ah, so that's why he said I didn't have to worry about the royal family?
"Stop beating around the bush and tell me. It seems like that's why you came today."
Kyle smiled, as if he was proud of himself, and continued,
"Congratulations. You'll be receiving a very, very, very big reward soon."
The royal family decided to give me a carrot.
-x-X-x-
A very, very, very big reward from the royal family.
Although I haven't heard the details yet, my mouth is already watering.
But based on my experience, this is the most dangerous time.
It's an unspoken rule of the world that you have to return a gift someday.
I need to check if it's something I can accept.
"What exactly is the reward? And what do I have to do?"
Kyle kindly answered my questions one by one.
The reward hasn't been decided yet.
And it's not just for me, but for all the survivors from that day.
They said they would hold a banquet at the royal palace soon.
"What I can say for sure is that there will be a discussion about rewards and punishments, and your contribution will be recognized the most."
"I see. Do you have any guesses?"
"Not exactly, but…"
Kyle trailed off and then listed the expected rewards, asking me to listen with the understanding that it was just his personal opinion.
"The first is a title."
A noble title.
"Of course, the probability of you receiving a title is very low. And even if you do, it won't be a hereditary title. And you won't have any territory."
I don't have high expectations either.
That's how nobles are in this world.
It's not something you can achieve just by making a few contributions.
Hmm, at most, I'll probably just be able to enter the Imperial City.
"The second is an essence. Since the royal family is even opening the Golden Treasury, you can expect something good."
The Golden Treasury is the royal family's treasure vault, where even 3rd-grade essences are stored.
"And the third?"
"Equipment."
"That's the most typical."
The third expected reward was high-grade equipment or a Numbered Item. And the fourth was just money.
"They'll probably distribute the rewards appropriately based on your contributions, excluding the title."
I roughly understand what he means.
Those with small contributions will just get some money.
Those with significant contributions will get equipment or a 5th-grade essence.
'Up to a 3rd-grade essence depending on the contribution…'
My mouth is watering even more now.
A 3rd-grade essence is a high-grade essence that you can only normally farm on the 7th or 8th floor.
And I can even choose what I want?
My growth, which has been stagnant for a while, will definitely accelerate.
But…
"So what does the royal family want from me? You haven't said that yet."
I haven't heard the most important information.
What do I have to give in return for this gift?
The royal family would surely try to regain the people's trust by taking down Noark.
If they want me to join the army and participate in the battle, I'll have to refuse, no matter how tempting the reward is.
"There's nothing major. You just have to show that you're friendly towards the royal family during the discussion about rewards and punishments. The rest is up to them."
"…That's both easy and difficult."
Kyle smiled bitterly at my answer.
"As expected, it seems like you don't have a good impression of the royal family."
I answered with silence.
"...."
Well, it's only natural.
How could I possibly have a good impression of them?
They took the easy way out and escaped through Dimensional Gate without even trying to find another solution, and then they all died.
"But please understand that what happened that day wasn't entirely the royal family's intention. Even among the royal knight captains, the values they pursue are different. There would have been a different outcome if another captain had been in charge."
Although Kyle defended them, I still felt uneasy.
Maybe it was a sense of responsibility.
It felt like I was betraying those who fought with me after being abandoned by the royal family.
Like I was becoming a collaborator during the Japanese occupation.
I cautiously asked,
"…What do you think about the royal family?"
It was a question that could be considered blasphemy.
Kyle flinched and then chuckled.
"Honestly, I don't have a good impression of them either."
It didn't seem like he was just saying that because I was there.
He wasn't that kind of person.
But I didn't expect a 3rd-grade military mage to say that, even in private…
"But the royal family is necessary for this world to be maintained. Well, I'm not really in a position to say that since I joined the army for personal gain, abandoning the Magic Tower."
"Personal gain?"
"You've already noticed, haven't you? My relationship with the Ruin Scholar, that old man."
Hmm, that's true.
"Can I ask in more detail?"
"He's my master's enemy. He harmed my master one day while we were researching together and completed that forbidden magic."
"So you joined the army to take revenge?"
"That's right. I was devastated when I heard that he had joined Orculus. I couldn't do anything alone."
Kyle, in his younger days, judged that he needed the help of the army and the royal family to take revenge.
So he joined them.
The enemy of my enemy is my friend.
"So don't think too hard about it. What does it matter if you don't like them? It's rational to use them if there's something you can gain."
Kyle's advice was perfectly valid.
What could I possibly do by antagonizing the royal family?
It was the same for the other survivors who had a grudge against them.
We had to get something out of this after all that hardship.
"Your expression has improved."
"Thanks to you."
"It's almost time for my next appointment. I'll be going now."
"Thank you for coming. I'll see you out since I can't walk properly."
"Haha, you were going to see me out? It's fine, rest. You'll be busy from now on."
"Busy?"
Kyle, who was heading towards the door, turned around at my question.
And…
"You'll find out soon."
…he left with a meaningful smile.
___________________
「Character's fame has increased by +10.」
「Character's fame has increased by +10.」
「Character's fame has increased by +10.」
「Character's fame has increased by +10....」
「....」
「....」
___________________
The day after Kyle left, we had visitors.
Raven and the bear-like man.
"Now that everyone's rested, let's do the loot settlement."
"Shouldn't you ask if I'm okay first?"
"You look fine. And besides, you're the one who pushed yourself so hard, do we have to worry about you too?"
Uh, is that so…?
I feel a bit offended as a tank, but the following words make it all go away.
"So please stop getting hurt."
She said it bluntly.
But she continued, as if embarrassed,
"It's not Miss Kaltstein's fault. It's like she's the only one taking care of everything."
"Uh, me? I'm fine… well, it would be good if you didn't get hurt, but…"
"Miss Kaltstein is too kind, that's the problem. If we leave him alone, he'll die before his time."
"…Enough, let's just take care of business. Loot settlement? Did you sell all the equipment?"
"Yes. I'm exhausted, but I endured it and sold everything, so be grateful."
So Raven went to the city on the first day we returned.
In other words, she sold the loot as soon as the investigation was over, without even resting.
The reason why she sold it so quickly was simple.
"We have to sell it quickly to get a good price."
There was a huge loss in the total explorer population.
It's a fact that the price of equipment will drop since the demand has decreased. And besides, 99% of the loot the survivors brought back was equipment, so there would be an oversupply.
"Thank you. I didn't even think about that."
"…You would be a superhuman, not a barbarian, if you could think about that in that situation."
Geez, she could have just said 'you're welcome'.
"What are you talking about?! Bjorn is a super barbarian!!"
What is she talking about again?
This everyday noise is strange, maybe because this expedition was so gloomy.
"Then let's all sit down."
I organized the situation before the introduction became any longer and had my companions sit on the sofa.
And we started the loot settlement.
It didn't take long since Raven had organized everything.
We just had to listen to the details and receive the money.
The settlement ended quickly, and we were chatting and spending time when…
…the bear-like man brought up a new topic.
"Ah, by the way, I don't know if you heard since you've been staying at home. Yandel, you got a new title."
"Oh, really?!"
Ainar was excited, and even Misha and Raven looked curious.
It seemed like it wasn't widely known yet, since even Raven didn't know.
As expected of a bar owner, he's quick on the uptake with this kind of information.
'A new title…'
So I'm finally graduating from Little Balkan?
"Well, what do you think it is?"
"Huhu, what do you think?"
The bear-like man enjoyed the attention and didn't answer right away.
Various guesses were exchanged among my companions, and then he finally asked me,
"What about you? Yandel, do you have any guesses?"
"Well, I hope it's not Big Balkan."
The bear-like man clicked his tongue slightly, as if disappointed with my reaction, and then told me my new title.
"Giant."
"Huh?"
"It's Giant. Your new title."
Hmm, it's simpler than I thought.
So now I'm Giant Bjorn, son of Yandel? I chuckled at the silly thought, and Misha commented,
"It's a fitting title. It also represents [Gigantification], one of your essences."
"Damn right, I also thought of it as soon as I heard it. Ah! But why did you get that title before? Did you not have that essence back then?"
The bear-like man, who was smiling happily, expressed his doubt.
It was Raven who answered.
"No. I heard he had it back then. He was probably even bigger than he is now. Right?"
I nodded.
Back then, I was 1.5 times bigger than I am now, using the Vampire skill [Blood Master] to borrow [Unholy One] from Misha's brother.
But the title I got was 'Little Balkan'.
"Hmm, bigger? Then why was it called that?"
The bear-like man tilted his head in confusion. Raven answered again.
"I think… I know."
"Huh? You know?"
"Yes. It must be… because he didn't seem this big to people back then. Mr. Yandel's back."
My face flushed at her words.
Especially since everyone seemed to agree.
"So you're saying he looked bigger even though he was smaller… Right, right, that could be it."
"Yeah, I think I understand."
"Bjorn is a great giant!! He'll definitely leave the biggest footprint in this world someday!"
Ah, I wish she wouldn't do that.
I quickly changed the subject.
It was the conversation I had with Kyle.
Everyone except for Ainar listened with interest, forgetting about my new title, 'Giant', since it was related to the royal family.
"A banquet… I wonder how many people will attend."
"Mr. Urikfrit, you're so naive. It would be faster to count how many people won't attend."
"What?"
"They'll badmouth them behind their backs, but realistically, who would want to antagonize the royal family? And they're even offering to reward us for our hardships."
"Bu, but we have our pride as explorers. Yandel! Say something."
"Honestly, I agree with Raven."
"…What?"
"If we're not going over to Noark, it's only natural to take what we can get."
Explorers never lose money.
Although it wasn't to this extent, most explorers were very sensitive to losses.
Anyway, we finished our conversation and disbanded after having a meal together.
"Then I'll be going."
"See you next time. Contact us if anything comes up."
Raven and the bear-like man left.
Ainar went out, saying she was going to the sanctuary, and Misha also left to go grocery shopping.
The house was suddenly quiet.
But soon, I heard a knock on the door.
"Teterud…?"
"Haha! I heard you're still bedridden, so I came. How are you? Can you drink?"
"…Don't tell Misha."
Although it was broad daylight, I let him and his clan members in and drank with them, catching up.
But as it was coming to an end…
"Oh, you're here too?"
…there was another visitor.
"Melter Pend."
"Just call me Melter. It's been a while, Bjorn. I was originally going to visit sooner, but I was busy with the funerals of the clan members who died. Ah, can I come in?"
"Of course."
Teterud and his clan members left after a while, saying they had another appointment, and then I had a private conversation with Melter.
The main topic was the battle against the wolf bastard.
And I heard something surprising.
"You awakened Aura…?"
"Haha, it wasn't a complete awakening, I just saw a glimpse of it and was able to use it a little."
He, who was once an apprentice knight, had manifested Aura during the battle.
Well, it still seemed unstable…
'A 3rd-grade explorer who can use Aura…'
I could already imagine Melter's name echoing throughout the city.
It wouldn't even take long.
After all, countless high-ranking explorers had died.
Bang, bang, bang!
Anyway, the visitors didn't end with Melter.
"Yandel! Are you there! I heard you can't even walk properly yet?"
The warriors I had met that day.
Or explorers who came to thank me.
They came to my house one after another.
We drank.
Misha served them meals.
"I wish Elbertin was here too…"
And sometimes we had a moment of silence.
And the visitors weren't just them.
"So, you're called Giant now? This dwarf can't even live with this much humiliation. Hahaha!"
The dwarf and Rotmiller came after hearing about me.
"It seems like you won't be able to come to the library for a while… I'll bring you some books to read next time I visit."
Ragna and Shabin, the members of the friend gathering.
"You did something big, didn't you? I'm proud of you."
The chieftain even came all the way from the sanctuary.
Ah, for reference, he also knew about the banquet and gave me a warning.
"There's poison in the King's smile. Don't get too close to the royal family."
"I'll keep that in mind."
"Then it's settled. Let's drink!"
Those visits continued for several days.
Ah, and there were many repeat visitors.
Because the royal family had sent out invitations to the banquet a while ago.
"…Are you going to fight back?"
"We have to fight back! If we let this slide, we'll just be under their feet forever!"
Some came and asked me to join them in fighting against the royal family, and some gave me sincere advice.
No, to be precise, the latter was much more common.
"Put aside your anger for now and think rationally."
"You were the one who suffered the most. Who could possibly say anything if you receive a reward?"
"If the discussion about rewards and punishments is canceled, even the explorers who died won't receive any compensation. You have to think about their families too."
"To be blunt, this is a great opportunity for you. Please don't miss it. I'm truly saying this for your sake."
Those conversations made me think.
My choices now affect not just me, but many others.
I listened to their opinions one by one, feeling a sense of responsibility.
Ah, until Misha exploded.
"Hey! Tell them to stop coming!! No, just go out and meet them!!"
It was understandable for her to be angry.
____________________
May 10th.
A little over a week had passed since the disaster. We woke up early in the morning and got ready.
Today was the day of the banquet.
"Ack! Ti, tighter!"
"You, you'll die, Misha!"
"It's fine, just… ugh!"
Misha came out of her room, wearing a dress with Ainar's help, while I was waiting on the sofa.
Her face was flushed.
"…Is, is this… weird?"
"…No, not at all. It looks good on you."
I meant it 100%.
It was a fancy dress, completely different from the tight pants or plain skirts she usually wore.
It was white with red accents, and the length was just above her knees, so it didn't seem to hinder her tail movements.
Did they even consider the fact that she's a beastman?
'I should thank them later.'
"St, stop staring."
"Ah, sorry."
"So that's all…?"
I quickly added,
"…The pin in your hair is pretty."
"Hmm, what about the necklace?"
"That too."
"Hmm, okay?"
Misha didn't say anything else, as if I passed.
The atmosphere was awkward, so I changed the subject.
"Where's Ainar?"
"Right, Ainar! What are you doing? Come out!"
"Bu, but…! I'm embarrassed too! Can't I just wear my armor?"
"I told you you can't wear weapons or armor to the royal palace! Come out. It's not weird at all!"
Ainar was eventually dragged out by Misha.
For reference, she wasn't wearing a dress.
It was a slim-fit men's suit that looked like it was tailored for her.
'It looks like a uniform.'
She was wearing tight white pants, a shirt, and a long coat made of high-quality fabric.
But it had a fancy feel to it because of the various emblems and embroidery on the coat and shirt.
"Th, this is weird, right?! Right! Th, this kind of clothes wouldn't suit a warrior like—"
"It looks good on you, why are you being like this?"
"Ugh, don't tease me…"
It's been a while since she's acted like this.
"Tease you? I'm wearing similar clothes."
For reference, I also received a suit similar to Ainar's as a gift. It was navy blue with brown accents, the same color as my hair.
But the color scheme, embroidery, and emblems were much more masculine than Ainar's.
Well, the biggest difference was something else.
"It's tight."
I adjusted my tight clothes and looked in the mirror for a moment.
It's the Tailcoat Barbarian Mode.
In a way, it looked even more intimidating than when I was wearing armor.
Did suits always accentuate muscles this much?
This is like a gangster.
"Bjorn! There's a carriage outside!"
"Really? Then let's go."
We finished getting ready and left the house, and the waiting coachman greeted us politely.
"Welcome, Mr. Bjorn Yandel, Miss Misha Kaltstein, and Miss Ainar Frenelin. It's an honor to escort you to the royal palace, I'm Jack Haynes. Please don't hesitate to pull the string if there's anything you need."
I feel like I'm someone important.
"Wow, so this is a private carriage…"
"Ooh! Candy! Free candy!!"
The carriage started moving as the wheels rolled on the road.
Towards the center of Lafdonia.
Where the King resides.
-x-X-x-
A study filled with the faint scent of old books.
A young man was reporting to a middle-aged man wearing glasses, looking very nervous.
"Based on the final analysis, it's presumed that Belvev Ruinjenes installed the magic circle and Liranne Viviane activated it."
"So you're saying they're both in the city?"
"Yes. Considering that Noark's protective barrier is functioning normally, it's highly likely that they're inside Lafdonia."
"They're masters of disguise."
"They're a nuisance. Then I'll report the casualty statistics that were compiled this morning."
The young man reported the total damage from the incident in a regretful voice.
However, the middle-aged man just listened without any reaction.
"Right, many died."
70% of the explorers above the 4th floor had died.
The only survivors were the 1,600 or so explorers who were left behind as sacrificial pawns and the dissidents who didn't enter the labyrinth from the beginning.
It was a huge loss, practically equivalent to a dimensional collapse.
"It's for the best."
Marquis Terserion, the Prime Minister of Lafdonia, chuckled as if brushing it off.
The young man tilted his head.
"Yes?"
"It's nothing. I have things to think about, so you can leave now."
"…Please rest, father."
"Use my title within the palace."
"Yes, Prime Minister."
The young man bowed politely and left the study as the man waved his hand.
'I should contact the Magic Tower soon.'
The man got up and walked towards the window.
He saw servants bustling about, preparing for today's event.
Swaaaa.
A strong wind blew in as he opened the window wide.
The sunlight was warm, and the sky was clear without a single cloud.
"His Majesty will be pleased."
It was a perfect day to start a new age.
_________________
Karnon, the Imperial City.
A special district where commoners couldn't even enter without permission.
"Ooh, so that's the royal palace!!"
A road leading to the royal palace appeared as we entered through the giant gate with the royal family's emblem on it.
The ground was covered in flower petals.
Crowds of people were gathered along the road, watching the parade.
Of course, there were hardly any nobles.
Even though Karnon was called a city of nobles, 90% of the population consisted of servants who worked or lived here.
"Wow! It's the heroes' procession!"
"Scatter the flower petals!"
The servants, who were probably paid handsomely, lined the streets and greeted us enthusiastically.
After some time…
"We've arrived. Was there anything uncomfortable during your journey?"
…the carriage stopped in front of the outer wall of the royal palace.
It wasn't just our carriage, but hundreds of other carriages as well.
"Then let's get off."
"Uh, wait! Let me catch my breath first, okay?"
Is she nervous now?
Well, this was her first time in the Imperial City.
"…Tell me when you're ready."
"Ugh, I think I'm ready."
I saw familiar faces as soon as we got off the carriage.
The survivors who crossed the line of death with me during the recent disaster.
But we were far apart, so we just exchanged glances.
"It's an honor to be escorting the heroes today, I'm Pert. Please come this way."
We went through a simple identification process at the gate and then entered the royal palace, following the guide.
Its official name is the Palace of Glory.
It's a palace used to welcome guests during banquets and royal events.
"Bjo, Bjorn…"
Ainar looked intimidated by the magnificent interior, as expected of a royal palace.
Geez, she's always like this in strange situations.
"Straighten your shoulders. It's weirder if you act like that when we're guests."
"…Ah, okay!"
"Please come this way."
We followed the guide and arrived at a private reception room, about 20 square meters in size.
"It's an honor to have you here, heroes."
As soon as we entered, maids swarmed us, styling our hair and adjusting our clothes.
And the guide explained the basic etiquette and the order of events for today's banquet.
After some time…
"Mr. Yandel!"
"Oh, I almost didn't recognize you all dressed up."
Raven and Avman, who arrived 10 minutes early, visited our reception room.
They were also dressed differently from usual.
Raven was wearing a traditional dress that dragged on the floor, and the bear-like man was wearing a neat suit.
"Haha, it's a bit awkward, isn't it?"
The bear-like man scratched his cheek with an awkward expression.
He said his wife helped him get dressed, but they made him change here.
I wonder how they even had a suit that fit him…
"The tailcoats for guests are all enchanted."
According to the guide, they had thousands of enchanted clothes that could be worn by anyone, regardless of size.
'Enchanted clothes.'
It seemed both rational and a ridiculous waste.
How often would guests without formal wear visit the royal palace?
"Then Raven, did you also change here?"
"No, I brought my own."
"…I see."
As expected of a mage from the upper class, she had a formal outfit.
"Wow, it's so pretty. How much is something like that?"
"Uh… well, I actually received it as a gift from my master a while ago."
"Ah, really? Anyway, you look like a real fairy in that outfit. Not that fairy race, but the fairies in fairy tales."
"Are you talking about Fae?"
"Ah, yeah, those."
"Hmm, you're not making fun of my height, are you?"
"No, of course not! I'm serious, you're really pretty."
Misha and Raven started their girl talk.
Avman, Ainar, and I stepped back and had a separate conversation.
"Hey, Yandel, did you hear anything more about the reward? There's a 4th-grade essence I've always wanted, so I'm wondering if it's possible."
"Well, I haven't heard anything about that yet."
"More importantly, Bjorn, I'm hungry, when are they going to feed us?"
"Eat some jerky if you can't wait."
"Oh, did you bring some?"
"Give me one too. I'm bored."
We sat side by side, chewing on jerky, and then the guide who had left for a while returned.
"They said everyone is ready to enter. Let's go."
The hallway outside the reception room was crowded.
The guides lined everyone up in an orderly fashion.
For reference, we were at the very front, in the center, with Melter Pend on our left and Kyle on our right.
"Ah, you're here?"
"That suit looks good on you."
"Here, stand here."
…Geez, how embarrassing.
"Why am I in the center?"
"Haha, wouldn't it be stranger if someone else stood there? Everyone here followed you."
Uh, hmm…
I didn't have anything to say to that, but this man tends to overestimate me.
That's when…
"It seems like it's about to start. Look ahead."
…Kyle spoke, looking straight ahead.
"The heroes are entering!"
Someone shouted, and the door opened wide.
Boooooooo!
A lively performance began with a loud trumpet sound.
"Let's go."
I followed Kyle's urging and stepped through the open door, and countless explorers followed behind me.
Thud, thud.
The space beyond the door was a rectangular hall.
It was large enough to accommodate thousands of people, and a red carpet was laid out leading to the empty throne.
I continued walking along the carpet.
Although it was a pain to walk without crutches, I struggled to maintain my barbarian pride.
Thud, thud.
The knights drew their swords and saluted, and the priests showered us with blessings as I walked.
Ah, and the nobles clapped from afar.
It was an overwhelming reception for an explorer with a little over a year of experience.
I wasn't particularly happy.
And the others probably felt the same way.
'This is like a spectacle.'
Ah, is it a spectacle?
Thud.
The explorers behind me stopped in line as I stopped walking.
It was different from the orderliness of soldiers.
They hadn't learned formations, so their lines weren't straight, and their clothes were mismatched, creating a messy atmosphere.
But could it be that it was funny?
"Pfft."
I heard a noble laughing from afar.
And the laughter spread.
And at the same time, I heard something being crushed.
Clench.
I subtly glanced back, and an explorer was clenching his fist.
It was a warrior who had cleared the path with me in the cave.
Geez, he was so reckless when he was smashing monsters' heads.
'He's surprisingly timid.'
It was another side of warriors that I didn't know about.
For some reason, I didn't like it.
Maybe that's why I couldn't help but shout.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
My shout echoed through the vast space.
And a chorus followed, although I didn't intend it.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
It was the warriors who were addicted to our battle cry, including the few barbarians, who shouted.
"These crazy bastards, even in the royal palace…"
Most of the explorers had dumbfounded expressions or sighed as if they couldn't believe it.
But the nobles were different.
Did they think it was a planned performance?
The nobles, who were momentarily surprised and silent, started clapping and whistling.
'These guys are also ridiculous.'
Although it was funny, the atmosphere had improved.
The magnificent royal palace, the gazes of the nobles, the awkward tailcoats, and so on. The explorers who were uncomfortable with this setting regained their composure.
'Damn right, this is how shameless explorers should be. How else did you survive?'
Kyle chuckled next to me as I looked at them with satisfaction.
"I told you, didn't I? Who else would stand here besides you?"
Well, he might be right.
Who else would do something like this besides a barbarian?
"Attention! Attention, please! His Excellency Ageny Rotten Terserion, the Prime Minister of Lafdonia, is entering!"
The Prime Minister appeared in the midst of the heated atmosphere.
___________________
He looked to be in his early fifties.
Gray hair and a kind face.
The Prime Minister, who reminded me of a principal, stood in front of the empty throne and started his speech.
First, a lighthearted joke.
"Haha, I apologize. I'm late. Please don't be angry, heroes. It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"
The speech naturally flowed to the weather and then to the next topic.
It wasn't anything grand.
He praised our efforts one by one and explained to the nobles why he had summoned us.
"These people achieved what the royal knights and even the famous clans couldn't. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't even know what happened there."
Returning alive with information about Noark.
That was our official contribution.
After all, they couldn't openly say they were giving us carrots to appease the explorers.
"Therefore, I, Ageny Rotten Terserion, on behalf of His Majesty the King, who is currently ill, commend you for your service!"
The long speech ended, and the Prime Minister announced the rewards based on the explorers' contributions.
First, all survivors would receive 10 million stones and permission to enter Karnon, the Imperial City, and there would be additional rewards depending on their achievements.
For reference, we were the first to be announced…
"Melter Pend, leader of the Nartel Clan, please step forward."
…but Melter was the first to receive his reward.
"You made a great contribution to the victory in the Goblin Forest battle by defeating the Blue Wolf criminal, Blue Mane."
The Prime Minister, as if he had already gathered information, mentioned his achievements specifically.
"I'll grant you access to the Silver Treasury. You can choose one essence and one item."
"Thank you."
Melter Pend received a ticket to the treasure vault where 4th-grade essences and equipment of similar value were stored.
'…Can I look forward to my turn?'
Actually, Melter's contribution was the lowest among the three of us. In the first place, they were only able to defeat the wolf bastard because I knocked out the Corpse Collector.
'Phew…'
Unfortunately, Kyle was next.
"Sir Kyle Pebrosk, the Iron Mage, please step forward."
"It's been a while, Prime Minister."
"Please forgive me for visiting so late, I've been busy with state affairs."
The Prime Minister listed three of Kyle's contributions.
Using his wisdom to guide the expedition party to safety.
Using Mass Teleport to evade Verzak.
And buying time and inflicting damage against the Ruin Scholar in the Goblin Forest battle.
"You said you wanted permission to research forbidden magic? From this day forward, you're a proud royal mage of Lafdonia."
"You don't know how happy I am to hear that, Prime Minister. Thank you."
Kyle was promoted to royal mage.
He now had the opportunity to learn and master all kinds of magic.
"Bjorn, son of Yandel, warrior of the barbarian tribe, please step forward."
It was finally my turn.
Could it be because my case was different from Melter and Kyle, who were already famous?
The Prime Minister stared at me intently and then listed my contributions one by one.
"Your contributions are as follows."
"Stopping the internal conflict with your noble will and allowing more knights to return to their families."
"Setting an example by fighting bravely at the most dangerous forefront."
"Buying time from Verzak by acting as bait for the explorers to survive."
"Making a decisive contribution to the victory by cornering the cursed spirit of another world, Abet Nekrapetto."
It sounds like I didn't do much.
That's when…
"These words can't express your hard work. But even so, on behalf of the royal family, I commend you for your service!"
"...."
"I'll grant you access to the Golden Treasury. You can choose one essence or item. And I'll grant you a reward of 50 million stones. And!"
The Prime Minister continued.
"I'll bestow upon you the title of Viscount."
…Huh?
-x-X-x-
A title that's just above ordinary knights.
"What the…"
"A Viscount?!"
The nobles were shocked by the Prime Minister's bombshell declaration.
It was understandable.
"This is unprecedented! To grant a hereditary title to a barbarian!"
A Viscount could pass down their title.
Not forever, but to their son and grandson.
In a way, it could be considered even better than an honorary baron, whose title only lasted for their lifetime.
'I never expected to get a title when I wasn't even aiming for the noble route.'
Honestly, I'm a bit dumbfounded.
In the game, you could become a noble by clearing quests related to dukes or higher and accumulating achievement points.
It was a route with as many disadvantages as advantages.
Although you were a noble, you were practically a vassal of the duke, so there were restrictions on gameplay.
But what about the restrictions in this case?
'…But it's the same for commoners and nobles, you can't refuse if the King orders you to do something, so it's practically nonexistent, right?'
Hmm, it seems like that's the case…
That's when the Prime Minister shouted,
"Everyone, be quiet!"
"But…"
"It's His Majesty's order."
"...."
The commotion, which I didn't think would subside easily, died down at the single mention of the King's order.
That was the weight of the King's name in this country.
"I'll inform you of the date of the title bestowal ceremony later."
Anyway, that was the end of my reward.
The Prime Minister didn't even ask if I would accept the title. He probably didn't even consider that possibility.
Well, I wasn't planning to refuse anyway.
This wasn't just a game.
In other words, becoming a noble meant I could enjoy all sorts of conveniences, and it would also increase my gameplay options.
"Portyan Miliant of the Nartel Clan, please step forward!"
The process of announcing rewards based on the other explorers' achievements continued for a while after my turn ended.
My companions also stepped forward one by one, and they all received decent rewards, although not as much as me.
To summarize:
Misha, Ainar, and the bear-like man could choose between a 10 million stone reward and a 5th-grade essence or equipment of similar value.
And Raven, the mage, requested the Prime Minister and received the qualification to learn royal magic instead of the usual reward.
Erwen received the biggest reward among my companions, a 4th-grade essence or an item of similar value.
It was because she was recognized as the second most deserving person in the battle against the Corpse Collector, and it also included compensation for Daria's death.
Although she wasn't present, it wasn't a problem since the rewards would be given later.
"Mr. Yandel, so Erwen is still at the sanctuary?"
"I heard the funeral ended a while ago, but she must still be feeling complicated."
"I see…"
Raven, who asked about Erwen's well-being, trailed off. I asked if she had something to say to her, but she didn't answer.
After some time…
"It's a wonderful day. Everyone, please enjoy this occasion with the heroes of our new age!"
…the long reward ceremony ended, and the banquet began.
__________________
The banquet was held in two separate locations since there were so many people.
The grand hall where the reward ceremony took place, and the outdoor garden, which was now filled with all sorts of delicacies.
Most of the explorers chose to enjoy the banquet in the outdoor garden.
Because of the atmosphere.
The indoor hall was quiet and solemn, with elegant music playing.
Most of the nobles chose to stay there, so the explorers probably felt uncomfortable.
"Mr. Yandel, what are you going to do?"
"Of course we're going outside."
We also chose the outdoor garden.
"We could expand our connections if we stayed here."
Since my viscount title was already confirmed, I didn't need to be here today if connections were my goal.
I didn't want this to be that kind of occasion.
"Yandel! Yandel is here!"
"What? Why are you here when you're becoming a noble?"
"Hahaha! Yandel wouldn't do that!"
The explorers greeted me enthusiastically as I appeared, perhaps feeling a sense of distance because of my upcoming noble title.
Phew, I'm glad I came.
No matter how I think about it, my connections with these guys feel more precious than the nobles.
"Everyone is looking at you, how about saying something? I've heard enough of it inside, but your words will sound different to them."
Kyle, who came with me, spoke from the side.
Right, he's saying to give a toast or something.
I contemplated for a moment, wondering what to say…
'Let's just be a barbarian.'
…but my contemplation didn't last long.
Was there even a need to think about it?
I've already heard enough fancy words of praise.
So…
"Everyone, you've worked hard!!"
…this would be enough today.
"Let's eat, drink, and be merry!!"
It was a shout that ended in an instant.
The barbarians, who naturally didn't like long speeches, responded with cheers.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
And it was the same for the explorers.
"I can't believe I'm drinking in the royal palace!"
"What's there to worry about when we have Yandel, who's becoming a Viscount? Let's enjoy ourselves!"
"Waaaaaaaaaa!!"
The explorers also started to enjoy the banquet, letting go of their discomfort with the royal palace.
For reference, that also applied to us.
"Wow, Bjorn! Try this! I don't know what kind of meat it is, but the bones are crunchy and delicious!"
"Uh, you're not supposed to eat the bones…"
"Huh? Why?"
"Never mind. It's fine if it tastes good…"
The greasy food had a different flavor from Misha's home cooking.
The smooth alcohol.
And the countless comrades I could talk to about our past experiences.
'This feels like an after-party.'
A joyful time, befitting a banquet, continued.
Although the atmosphere darkened whenever someone mentioned a dead companion, we all had a brief moment of silence and then returned to our cheerful mood.
That's when, as the sun started to set…
"You guys seem to be having fun."
…Melter, who was enjoying the banquet with the nobles inside, came out.
"Was it fun inside?"
"There's no way. I barely endured it."
"You're having a hard time too."
I could understand Melter's position, having to enjoy the banquet with the nobles inside.
After all, he was leading a clan.
He wouldn't have wanted to miss the opportunity to build connections with the nobles. He might need their help someday.
"Here, take a bottle."
"A bottle…?"
"Why bother with glasses?"
"Haha, I should have come out sooner. But where are your companions?"
"Everyone except for Avman went somewhere else, saying it was boring."
"Really? I thought that barbarian girl would be different."
"Ah, she's a lightweight."
To be precise, she wasn't a lightweight, but she kept chugging from the bottle and passed out after a while.
"Yandel, what are you doing? The bottle is empty. Don't tell me you're drunk?"
"There's no way."
I continued drinking with the warriors around me since Melter was here.
It's one of the advantages of Bjorn Yandel's body.
He can hold his liquor.
"Ugh, the smell of alcohol…"
Misha approached me as I was drinking like crazy, something I hadn't done since waking up in this body.
"Ah, Misha, did you have fun?"
"Yeah. They had a performance, it was fun. It would have been nice if you came too…"
"There will be other opportunities. Where's Raven?"
"She's drunk and talking about difficult things with the other mages."
Talking about difficult things while drunk? As expected, mages are beings to be avoided.
"I'm going to take a walk."
I excused myself from Melter and took a walk in the garden with Misha.
Although it wasn't as rowdy as the warriors' drinking party, everyone was enjoying themselves.
I saw nobles here and there.
"Oh my, an army of thousands of corpses? I can't even imagine."
"That's right. It must have been terrifying. You're amazing."
Just like how I was a popular star at the Count's banquet before, nobles were approaching the explorers and expressing their interest.
Well, not all nobles were like the titled nobles who were stuck-up. The young, non-titled nobles were practically no different from middle-class commoners.
'Huh? But why isn't anyone coming to us?'
It was strange, but I soon understood.
How could they possibly approach us when there were dozens of burly warriors shouting?
"Bjorn, should we sit down and rest for a bit?"
"That would be good…"
Although I wasn't that drunk, I was tired from walking for a long time since I hadn't fully recovered from the last battle.
"…Why are you sitting on the ground? Why not next to me?"
"It seems like it will break."
Misha sat on the bench, and I just plopped down on the grass.
And we spent time in silence.
Could it be because I drank so much?
The noise from the banquet sounded like background music, and various thoughts crossed my mind.
"Yandel! You're Bjorn Yandel, the one who's becoming a Viscount, right?"
A few nobles recognized me and approached us as we were enjoying the peaceful silence.
Viscount Yandel…
Are they already treating me like a noble?
I politely sent them away since I didn't want to be interrupted.
But I couldn't do that to everyone.
"Haha, you're here?"
It was Count Perdehilt, a titled noble.
It would be troublesome if we became enemies, as it could affect future events…
And he was Dwarkey's half-brother.
"…Baron Martoan."
"I actually tried to see you a few times, but you seemed to be having fun, so I didn't approach."
Geez, what an excuse.
He probably just couldn't bring himself to come through the warriors.
"Thank you for your consideration."
"Haha, you're welcome. You're the main character of this banquet, after all."
After exchanging formal greetings, I chatted with Baron Martoan for a while.
It was a surprisingly beneficial conversation.
He said that there was usually a lot of bullying when a commoner became a noble, but I would be different.
"Why?"
"Because it's a title bestowed by His Majesty. He's personally watching over you, so who would dare to touch you? Everyone will be desperate to get close to you."
The King…
I always feel a sense of unease whenever the King is mentioned.
The chieftain's words also came to mind.
'Anyway, if what he's saying is true…'
I looked at the butler next to Baron Martoan and greeted him.
"It's been a while, butler."
The butler's face turned pale.
Well, it's understandable for him to be scared.
The barbarian who smashed his head and crunched his bones had now gained fame and power.
"I, I apologize for my rudeness back then…"
The butler trembled and apologized as I looked at him with a smirk.
I wasn't particularly happy.
'Tsk, this feels like I'm bullying a weakling.'
Even a punching bag needs to have some impact for it to be fun to hit. I stopped messing with the butler and continued talking to Baron Martoan.
And Dwarkey naturally came up in the conversation.
"By the way, where's my brother?"
Baron Martoan, as if wanting to get close to me, used the term 'my brother', which he didn't even use back then.
Misha and I both froze.
'Damn it, what?'
Is he kidding?
"Where's he…?"
The butler's face turned even paler as I barely managed to control my expression and asked.
I could glean one piece of information from this.
It seemed like he knew the situation.
And two…
"Sir, like I said before, Liol Wobu Dwarkey…"
…the Baron also knew.
He just forgot after hearing it once.
"Ah, right. My memory isn't what it used to be now that I'm old. Haha."
The Baron laughed awkwardly.
I felt nauseous, even though I had just chugged several bottles of alcohol without any problems.
Is that why?
Clench.
When I came to my senses, Misha was holding my arm tightly with a worried expression. I patted the back of her hand to reassure her and then pulled my hand away.
I wasn't the powerless person I used to be.
I had too many responsibilities now.
Therefore…
"Right, I understand, so don't worry. People can have memory problems when they get old."
"…Huh? Ah, well, I guess you could say that. Hahaha."
I extended my hand and offered the Baron a handshake.
"I have somewhere to be, so I'll be going now. It was nice meeting you."
"Really? That's a shame. See you later."
Baron Martoan shook my hand, clicking his tongue in disappointment.
He asked one last question.
"Ah, but where are you going?"
I answered, dusting off my hand as if there was something on it,
"Ah, I suddenly feel like washing my hands."
I have to wash off the dirt.
__________________
Baron Martoan wasn't very perceptive.
"…Really? Anyway, I'll call you later, so don't refuse. You've become a noble now, so there are many things you need to learn."
He let me go without any fuss.
Maybe the problem was me.
He probably couldn't imagine a barbarian subtly mocking him like that.
'It might be one of a barbarian's few weaknesses.'
"You did well."
Misha patted my head as if I was a good boy.
I got up and headed inside.
Although I could have just asked a passing mage to wash my hands…
…I also wanted to use the bathroom.
"Don't you need me to come with you?"
"…Do you think I'm a child?"
I parted ways with Misha and went to the bathroom with the guide's help. And as I was about to return to the banquet hall after using the bathroom…
…someone who recognized me called out.
"Oh, you're here?"
It was Count Perdehilt, the host of the last banquet I attended. He said something strange when he gave me the winning prize, 'No. 7777 Garpas's Necklace'.
[I'll call you separately when you're more prepared.]
I hadn't received a separate summons until today.
"You're talking as if you were looking for me."
"Because I was."
"How about we go over there and have a drink? It won't take long."
"Alright."
I readily followed him inside since he was someone with much greater power than Baron Martoan.
"Here."
The Count poured me a drink as soon as we sat down at the table, and I downed it in one gulp.
"My companions are waiting, so can I hear your business first?"
"Haha, of course."
Fortunately, the Count didn't seem offended and got straight to the point.
"This is my youngest daughter, Arabella. You've met her before, right?"
This feels strange…
"How is she? Isn't she pretty?"
As expected, the Count wrapped his arm around his daughter's shoulder and pushed her towards me.
"Ah, I, I'm Arabella…"
The Count's daughter, who seemed to be in her early teens, trembled as she looked at me and introduced herself.
Ha, I never thought I would experience something like this.
"How is she?"
My mind went blank, and I couldn't answer, as it was my first time experiencing this.
But did he think I was contemplating?
"Ah, don't worry too much if you have a girlfriend. You can just take her as a concubine."
"…Concubine?"
"Ah, you didn't know?"
The Count laughed and said at my mutter,
"It's also a noble's duty to have many descendants and contribute to the country. You can have up to three concubines besides your legal wife if you become a noble."
Duty, my ass.
I suddenly felt like using the bathroom again.