"You know, it's like a jury system."
He then added defensively,
"Of course, I don't like this method, and I don't think it's a good idea. I just suggested it because you didn't believe me, so you can refuse if you want."
He was watching my reaction as he spoke, so it seemed like he thought I was staring at him because I didn't believe him…
'Round Table…'
It wasn't a bad suggestion.
If we were going to do it, I would have to make a few changes, like having them all sit at the Round Table instead of just acting as a jury.
The captain of Orculus and the Ruin Scholar.
And two more unidentified veterans.
If I played the Round Table game with them, valuable information would definitely come out.
But…
"I refuse. I don't want to talk about my personal life in front of other people."
Auril Gabis' limited edition information was the priority. We could play the Round Table game later.
"You refuse… I expected that. You might think we're all on the same side."
Auril Gabis sighed and asked,
"So, what are you going to do?"
I chuckled.
What else could I do?
We go back to the beginning.
"Three questions for one answer."
"Hmm, at least it's better than five for one."
"But you brought this item."
Auril Gabis chuckled as I pointed at the jewel.
"Thank you for acknowledging my efforts, but wouldn't it be more reasonable to just take turns asking each other one question?"
Well, he did have a point.
The conditions were now equal since the lie detector was activated.
However…
"Think of it as a reward for your faith."
Aside from the fact that I had seen that jewel in the future, I couldn't be certain that this old man couldn't manipulate the results.
After all, he was the one who created it.
He might have hidden a cheat code.
Therefore…
"That's ironic."
Auril Gabis chuckled in disbelief.
"You know, don't you? It doesn't matter how many additional questions you have if I'm lying to you."
Of course, I knew.
But so what?
"So you're refusing?"
"Haha, there's no way. It's strange, but it also makes sense. At least you're taking a risk in an uncertain situation."
His agreement was surprisingly straightforward.
I thought he would drag out the negotiation.
"But can I go first? You already asked about my age."
"Alright."
I decided to compromise this time.
This old man had his own motives, but he had been kind to me…
And it wasn't necessarily a bad thing to be asked questions.
I could use them to figure out his intentions.
"Then I'll ask."
And so, the truth game began.
Auril Gabis opened his mouth.
"How many people cleared the original version twenty years later?"
That's his first question?
I was momentarily surprised, but it was too early to relax.
It was a question he asked at the cost of an unfavorable exchange rate.
It couldn't be just simple curiosity.
'The reason he's curious about that…'
He's probably wondering…
…if there's anyone who can replace me in the future.
Therefore, I answered honestly.
"I'm the only one who cleared the original version and came here. At least as far as I know."
I left some room for interpretation, but I also made it clear that I had the upper hand in this relationship.
"Hmm, I see."
Auril Gabis just nodded slightly, his expression unreadable, as the jewel emitted a green light.
It was my turn to ask a question.
I didn't need time to think since I had already prepared a list of questions. Ah, of course, I had to modify them a bit because of the 'jewel'.
"Have you ever used the Fragment of Records?"
I deliberately asked a question that could only be answered with 'yes' or 'no'.
Although I couldn't get much information this way…
…at least I could fact-check.
Once I had the facts, I could figure out the rest myself. It was more reliable than listening to someone else.
"I didn't expect to receive this kind of question from the beginning… you're not an easy opponent."
"So, what's the answer?"
"I have."
Right, as expected.
I calmly chose my next question after confirming that the jewel emitted a green light after a slight delay.
That's when…
…Auril Gabis asked curiously,
"But how did you know?"
The answer was simple.
He had subtly shown it during our conversation last time.
Honestly, it was just a shot in the dark.
But there's no such thing as a free lunch in the world of competition.
"Ask me later if you're curious."
"Ahem…"
"Then I'll ask my second question."
"Go ahead."
I took a breath and spoke.
The second piece of information I had to confirm.
"Did you create this spiritual world?"
Auril Gabis flinched slightly and looked at me with a strange gaze.
"…I don't understand your intentions."
"What do you mean?"
"I don't understand why you're curious about that. I would understand if you were just asking out of curiosity, but you don't seem like the type to be driven by emotions."
I roughly understood what he meant.
He probably thought it was a question with low cost-effectiveness.
Although I didn't get a definite answer, the circumstances were clear.
He probably thought it was a waste of time to confirm it.
But…
'This is something we have to be sure about.'
This space, which I was summoned to every 15th, was unique.
Although the royal family and the Magic Tower were aware of its existence and had conducted much research, no one had figured out how it was created.
Mages could only guess.
That a mage far beyond their imagination had created this place.
Then was this old man really that great mage?
"So, what's the answer?"
"You're right. I created this place."
Auril Gabis then answered.
And…
"It's red."
…the jewel judged his answer to be a lie.
I was as surprised as Auril Gabis.
I didn't expect him to lie here.
"What's going on?"
Auril Gabis trailed off as I narrowed my eyes and asked.
"That's… it seems like it was a bit ambiguous."
Ambiguous…
I roughly understood the situation since I knew about the jewel. It worked based on the speaker's 'psychology'.
The green light wouldn't turn on if he felt even a slight sense of unease.
Auril Gabis gave a cryptic answer as I glared at him, demanding an explanation.
"I created this space, but I didn't create it."
What kind of wordplay is this?
"Are you serious?"
"…The light is green, isn't it?"
"Tell me clearly. What do you mean? Did you have an accomplice?"
Auril Gabis hesitated for a moment and then answered,
"…You could say that."
If that's the case, then just say so. What does 'you could say that' even mean?
It was ridiculous, but the jewel did emit a green light.
'…Then I can interpret it as him wanting to hide the fact that he had an accomplice. The reason it was red at first was probably because he felt guilty about trying to brush it off.'
I had gained an unexpected piece of information.
"…Then this is the third question. Go ahead."
Auril Gabis urged me on in a tired voice.
Geez, he's impatient.
"The Witch…"
I chuckled and corrected myself.
It was better to be specific in this case.
"Is the Earth Witch really dead?"
It wasn't an urgent question, but it was something I had to ask at some point.
________________________
The Earth Witch.
A name you couldn't avoid hearing in this world, even if you weren't interested in history.
Come to think of it, I had always been curious.
Just how much of the story about the 'Witch' that was known to the world was true?
"…There's not a single easy question, from the very first one."
"So, what's the answer?"
Auril Gabis smiled bitterly and answered.
"She's alive."
Wow, really…?
I suddenly had a lot to think about.
It meant that the royal family had intentionally hidden this fact…
'And there weren't even any Easter eggs or anything in the game that hinted at this.'
The game developer was this old man.
But he didn't include this information even though he knew?
The guy who crammed all sorts of useless information and settings into the game and then said 'Tutorial Complete' at the end?
It didn't make sense.
It was more plausible that he intentionally hid it because he didn't want players to know.
'Then why did he want to keep this a secret?'
I briefly tried to guess, but I didn't know yet.
There weren't enough clues.
But I had a hunch that if I dug deeper, I might be able to figure out the royal family and this old man's ultimate goal.
In short, I had obtained a guideline with this question.
That's when, as I was organizing my thoughts…
"Huhu, it's finally my turn."
…the old man, who had endured a long period of silence, chuckled.
Damn it, what's he going to ask?
I felt uneasy, and then the old man opened his mouth.
"Do you want to return to Earth?"
His intention was clear.
He had phrased it indirectly, but what he really wanted to know was something else.
If I had the will to open the Gate of the Abyss.
Right, that's what he wanted to ask.
"I don't know."
I answered, and the jewel soon emitted a green light.
"You don't know…"
Auril Gabis smiled wryly, as if he was disappointed, but he quickly composed himself.
And he gave me some unexpected advice.
"I hope you make a decision soon."
"Why?"
"It would be better for both of us."
I asked him what he meant, but he just said, "Is that your question?" and that was the end of that topic.
It was my turn again.
I asked without wasting time.
"Did the Witch's Poison really exist?"
"…You're very interested in her."
Well, not really.
I just had a feeling that the 'Witch' might be the key to this whole story as we talked.
"Phew…"
Auril Gabis took a sip of his tea and answered as if reminiscing about the distant past.
"That's not a made-up story. This world was almost destroyed because of her. If it weren't for the labyrinth, it would have definitely ended."
The jewel emitted a green light.
Hmm, then was the outside world really fine because time had passed?
I moved on to my next question as I thought about that.
"If the Witch is alive, where is she now?"
It was the only open-ended question I had asked today.
I couldn't ask it as a multiple-choice question since I didn't know anything.
But Auril Gabis was cunning.
"She's where everyone's hopes lie."
Damn it, that cryptic answer.
I sighed and checked the jewel.
It was green, so it seemed like he would just brush it off even if I complained…
"Are you really going to keep doing this?"
But I asked anyway, just in case.
"But it's difficult to find a more suitable explanation."
The jewel was green again.
Judging by his sly expression, it seemed like he wouldn't change his attitude even if I kept asking.
So I gave up.
'Well, at least I confirmed one thing.'
Auril Gabis knew the Witch's location.
And he didn't want to tell me.
In other words…
…it was possible that me knowing about the Witch would conflict with his goals.
"That was already the third question."
The old man smiled leisurely, as if the questions weren't that difficult.
'Geez, how annoying.'
It was time to confirm it.
The thing that might be more important to me than the Witch or anything else.
"Go ahead."
I hesitated for a moment and then spoke.
"Do you feel sorry for me?"
A brief silence fell.
______________________
I knew his occupation was a mage.
He seemed to know about the secrets of this world, including the Witch.
He was the game developer, and he was an enemy of the royal family.
So it was time to confirm.
What kind of person was Auril Gabis?
"Haha, you're asking me another difficult question."
The old man's hearty laughter broke the brief silence.
"You answered 'I don't know' when I asked if you wanted to return to Earth, right? That could also mean that life here isn't that bad."
It wasn't an answer to my question.
I just stared at him without saying anything.
"What's with that look? You know, don't you? Sometimes you have to ignore your emotions to achieve your goals."
Although I agreed, it still wasn't an answer to my question.
"I'll change the question if it's that difficult to answer."
Auril Gabis readily agreed as I seemingly compromised.
"Ah, will you?"
I nodded and changed the question.
It seemed like he was having a hard time answering the previous one.
So I asked a more specific question.
"Auril Gabis, do you feel even a shred of guilt for the countless 'evil spirits' who were dragged here and died because of your greed?"
He didn't answer again.
"Haha…"
But his awkward laughter…
…was enough of an answer.
I was thinking that when…
"Hahaha! Hahahahaha!"
…Auril Gabis burst into laughter.
It was a strange sight.
I even felt a chill run down my spine.
"You're a funny one."
He looked at me with a serious gaze.
The atmosphere suddenly became heavy.
Thud.
Auril Gabis placed his hand on the jewel in the center of the table and spoke.
In a friendly voice, like before.
"Of course, I'm not happy about it. Of course, I feel sorry for them. I feel responsible. I'll probably live the rest of my life atoning for this."
He smiled.
"So, is that your answer?"
"…It's enough."
I answered briefly and checked the jewel.
Swaaaaaaaaaa!
A bright red light was emanating from the jewel.
-x-X-x-
A long silence, like the ones we had several times during our conversation, followed.
"...."
"...."
Auril Gabis looked at me calmly, and I met his gaze.
I felt suffocated, even though I tried to hide it.
And in that silence…
"Well…"
…Auril Gabis spoke.
Casually, as if nothing had happened.
"It's my turn now, right?"
My heart pounded at his words.
This old man was like the abyss that some philosopher talked about.
Looking into the abyss, it also looks back at you.
[How many people cleared the original version twenty years later?]
He used his first question to check if there was a 'replacement' for me.
[Do you want to return to Earth?]
And his second question was to see if I had a weakness.
Then what about the third?
The answer was coming from his mouth.
"What was the name of the body your soul possessed after crossing the Gate of the Abyss?"
My name, Bjorn Yandel.
A means to find me outside this anonymous spiritual world.
"Don't say 'Nibels Enche'. I checked because I felt a bit uneasy that day."
I remembered his meaningful gaze when I gave him that name.
I thought I had gotten away with it.
"What I asked that day was the name you use 'here'."
Auril Gabis, who had noticed the trick I used, started investigating.
"Did you know? There are seven people in Lafdonia who use that name. I was able to confirm that six of them were ordinary people…"
"But I couldn't find the last one."
"A 6th-grade explorer, Nibels Enche."
"And surprisingly, he's a barbarian. I thought it was a human name."
I felt like the walls were closing in on me as he spoke, and I realized…
[…Are you a barbarian?]
…that even that seemingly casual question was part of his plan.
He probably thought I would have used my real race, even if I gave him a fake name.
"Then I'll ask again."
Auril Gabis repeated the same question.
"What was the name of the body your soul possessed after crossing the Gate of the Abyss?"
I couldn't give him a fake name.
There was only one right answer when he asked a question with such specific conditions.
'Damn it.'
I had to hide my name, no matter what.
I had learned what kind of 'person' Auril Gabis was.
Although I couldn't be certain that he was an enemy, one thing was clear.
[Of course, I'm not happy about it. Of course, I feel sorry for them. I feel responsible. I'll probably live the rest of my life atoning for this.]
This old man could never be an ally.
Therefore…
"I won't answer."
I confidently exercised my right to remain silent.
"Hmm…"
Auril Gabis didn't say anything.
He just observed my reaction with interest.
"It seems like it was a difficult question. Well, it's natural for you to be wary of me. Then I'll change the question."
He continued, not dwelling on the fact that he didn't get my name.
"How long has it been since you woke up in that body?"
He was asking about my experience.
He knew I was from twenty years in the future, so he could guess when I woke up in the 'barbarian's' body with this information.
Therefore…
"I won't answer."
"Really? Then I'll ask a different—"
"No, the question and answer time is over."
I ended the truth game without hesitation.
Although I still had many questions, this old man wasn't like a bag of cats.
He had to pay a price if he wanted something.
And I judged…
…that it was too dangerous to pay any more.
"…Wait, over? What do you mean?"
"It means what I said. You were the one who went first, so there's no problem, right?"
Auril Gabis clicked his tongue and stared at me as I unilaterally ended the game.
Well, he couldn't refute me logically.
We hadn't agreed on a set number of questions.
He just expressed his disappointment.
"This is unexpected. I thought you would have a lot of questions for me."
"Well."
Indeed, I had pages of questions left.
The next question I was going to ask was whether I could return to my original time using the Fragment of Records that the Lord had.
But…
'It's a good thing I didn't ask.'
I had belatedly realized that the question could have revealed that I was currently in Noark.
"It seems like you're not going to change your mind."
The old man sighed and then suddenly complimented me.
"You're very smart."
"...."
"Then what are you going to do? Are you going back?"
Contrary to my expectations, Auril Gabis was being a gentleman, as if he would send me back whenever I wanted.
'…What should I do?'
I needed time to think since I didn't expect the truth game to end this early.
'It's a shame to just go back.'
I hesitated for a moment and then decided to follow the plan I had made earlier.
"How about what you said before? About talking in the room where the others are."
"Huh? Didn't we already talk about that?"
"I think it's a good idea. We just need to make a few changes."
Damn right, I should at least see their faces since I'm here.
_____________________
The truth game with Auril Gabis was like Russian roulette.
It was nerve-wracking every time we took turns.
But…
'This is enough limited edition information for now.'
I didn't know anything anyway.
And it wasn't like Auril Gabis was the only one with valuable information. Especially not those otherworldly evil spirits who were summoned decades before me.
"Hmm, that's an interesting idea."
Sharing information freely, not just answering questions.
But it had to be the truth, and something that more than half of the participants didn't know.
Auril Gabis chuckled as I explained the rules, which were practically identical to the Round Table twenty years later.
"I think it will be fun. It's well-structured for a sudden idea. What did you do before you came here?"
The answer is, I was an ordinary office worker.
Of course, I wasn't going to tell him that.
"I thought the question and answer time was over."
Auril Gabis muttered as I answered curtly.
"…I was just curious. And besides, it wasn't a big secret."
He wasn't wrong.
But I had a feeling that even this question had a hidden motive because he was the one who asked it.
"Anyway, wait a moment. I'll have to add some authority to the jewel to implement the rules you mentioned."
Auril Gabis closed his eyes, focusing his mind, as he touched the jewel.
And after some time…
Whoosh.
Although it wasn't visible to the naked eye, the air around the jewel started to shimmer like a heat haze on a summer road.
"It's done."
"That was easy."
"Haha, that makes me feel a bit offended. Believe it or not, but I've lost most of my authority over this space because of this."
Hmm, I don't know…
The old man explained as I glanced at him skeptically.
"For example, my ability to materialize. I can still create objects by focusing my thoughts, but they'll be different from the real thing."
I flinched.
I didn't care about materialization or focusing thoughts.
Different from the real thing…
"Wait a minute, is that why the Sprite tasted bland earlier?"
Auril Gabis nodded without hesitation at my question.
"That's right. Is there a problem?"
Of course, there's a problem.
It meant I wouldn't be able to enjoy the refreshing taste of Sprite anymore.
"...."
"You have a serious Sprite addiction."
"...."
"But judging by how much you miss it, it seems like it's been a long time since you came here."
What the hell is this old man talking about?
He's still trying to extract information from me in this situation.
Thanks to him, I came to my senses and subtly asked,
"…What's the reason for all this? It seems like that authority is a very important ability."
"Huhu."
Auril Gabis chuckled, as if he knew what I was thinking.
"You said you received an invitation from someone nicknamed GM."
Ah, right, I did say that.
"So?"
"It means that the ownership of this space has been transferred to him. I don't know how it happened, but if it's going to be taken over by someone else anyway, there's no reason for me to give him the core too."
I roughly understood his reasoning.
Even if it was something he would never do normally, it was different if the server was shutting down.
He wouldn't hesitate to do anything.
But there was one thing I was curious about.
"Why aren't you asking more about the GM?"
"Haha, you said you didn't know much about him either."
Ah, that's true.
Auril Gabis muttered as I nodded in understanding,
"And even if I knew more, I don't want to ask."
"…Why?"
Auril Gabis answered in a somewhat melancholic voice,
"I told you, didn't I? You can't change the future that's already been observed."
Hmm, so he's saying ignorance is bliss?
That's when, as I was feeling a strange mix of emotions…
"Enough small talk, let's go. They'll be interested too."
…Auril Gabis got up from his seat.
I followed him.
To the room with the round table.
_____________________
A round table with dozens of seats.
Creak.
Auril Gabis opened the door and entered, and the four people sitting inside looked at us.
"…Master."
Their reactions were the same.
I didn't know what they had done after sending me back, but they all looked at Auril Gabis with fear in their eyes.
And…
"He's… with you."
…they were curious about me.
But could it be because Auril Gabis had firmly drawn a line about my identity last time?
No one dared to speak.
"...."
"...."
A strange silence filled the room.
It was Auril Gabis who broke the silence.
"Haha, everyone's so stiff."
His words were like the words of an absolute ruler.
As if telling them to relax.
"It's only natural. You acted like that last time…"
The unidentified woman spoke, as if letting out a breath she had been holding, and Auril Gabis chuckled apologetically.
The atmosphere softened.
"Anyway, it's good that everyone's here. I came up with something interesting while talking to this friend."
Auril Gabis placed the jewel in the center of the table and continued,
"I summoned you all for the purpose of exchange, but we haven't really had a proper conversation, have we? Maybe this will solve that problem."
"Can you explain in more detail?"
Auril Gabis briefly explained the rules of the meeting at the request of the man in black, who seemed to be the captain of Orculus.
Their reactions were mixed after he finished.
"To share information that more than half of us don't know, that's difficult."
The woman seemed worried.
"But that's what's needed for a proper exchange. Everyone has been hiding their true intentions until now."
Kagureas, the middle-aged man, spoke as if he welcomed the idea.
And…
"Are you participating, Master?"
…the Ruin Scholar, the child who spoke in a mature tone despite his appearance, just asked one question.
"Of course, I'm planning to participate. And so is this friend next to me."
Their gazes turned to me at Auril Gabis' answer.
They looked uneasy.
Well, they wouldn't want to share information if a stranger suddenly appeared and joined the meeting.
'It seems like I'm being favored, but they're probably also wondering if I'm even on their level.'
Hmm, what should I do?
It seemed like a good idea to prove myself first. I hesitated for a moment and then called out to Auril Gabis.
No, to be precise, I was about to call him when…
"Um…"
"Ah, just call me Master. You're the only one who knows my name."
Huh? Suddenly?
That's when, as the old man cut me off…
"...!"
"...!"
"...!"
…the four of them looked at me with surprise in their eyes.
'What the hell…'
Honestly, I was dumbfounded.
How the hell was this old man treating them?
"You… know his name…?"
I can't believe he didn't even tell them his name.
'…Anyway, is this a good thing?'
I tried to think positively as I composed myself.
Auril Gabis was helping me for an obvious reason.
He wouldn't have a reason to participate in this meeting if it weren't for me.
And he readily agreed to my suggestion because he wanted to get more information about me.
No, that wasn't all.
"Alright, everyone, sit down. It's natural for you to be wary, but if you're that concerned, this friend can go first."
Auril Gabis naturally steered the conversation.
To create an atmosphere where I had to share valuable information.
"…Shouldn't you ask if everyone wants to participate first?"
I spoke, not hiding my displeasure at the old man's scheme.
But then…
"...!"
"...!"
…the four of them widened their eyes again.
As if they couldn't believe what they were seeing.
"How dare you speak so casually to the Master…"
"…But the Master isn't saying anything."
Damn it, I'm speechless.
This is ridiculous.
Thud.
I just pulled out a chair and sat down.
And they each expressed their willingness to participate.
"I'll participate."
"Me too."
"…Who would refuse to participate in a gathering like this?"
No one refused.
Auril Gabis couldn't hide his satisfied smile and volunteered to be the moderator.
"Then it's unanimously decided. There's no need for introductions, so let's begin. You go first, and then we'll go clockwise."
Their gazes turned to me again.
Even I couldn't help but feel pressured.
After all, it was the first turn of this newly created meeting.
The level of information they shared would depend on the quality of the information I shared.
'And besides, it's not good to be underestimated.'
I had learned something from the Round Table twenty years later.
First, act like you're a big shot, and good things will come to you even in your sleep.
It's the same as how you get applauded even if you shit your pants if you're famous.
Indeed, there were times when I shared trivial information at the Round Table, and they just let it slide, thinking there must be a hidden meaning.
'Hmm, so what should I share?'
I continued to contemplate as I observed the members.
They were all showing strong interest in me, and Auril Gabis was the most enthusiastic.
'Right, you're dying to know what kind of information I'm going to share, aren't you?'
Thanks to that, my contemplation ended.
I knew what this old man was expecting…
'But no way.'
I'm a veteran of the Round Table.
I opened my mouth after finishing my contemplation.
It was something that wouldn't reveal any unnecessary information to Auril Gabis, but would satisfy the other members.
"The Earth Witch is alive."
The Lion Style.
First Form, Information Recycling.
-x-X-x-
The Earth Witch is alive.
There are many reasons why I recycled this information.
And the first reason is that it allows me to mess with Auril Gabis, who was expecting me to reveal something amazing.
Like this.
"Huh…"
The old man let out a groan, looking at me with disbelief.
It warmed my heart.
Well, that wasn't the only reason I chose this information.
The second reason…
…is that it's a pretty useful piece of information.
The source is me. After all, how surprised was I when I first heard it?
I almost had a heart attack.
Although I didn't show it like these guys.
In short, it's perfect for pretending to be a big shot.
Swoosh.
I slowly observed the other members' reactions.
Their reactions were uniform.
At first, they were all like, 'Huh? What is he talking about?', but then they realized what it meant and looked at one spot.
The center of the Round Table, where the jewel was.
Towards the place where the truth would be revealed.
"It's green."
The jewel emitted a green light.
"Then that means it's true…"
"At least he believes it's true."
I chuckled, looking at the members who were exclaiming.
Yeah, this should be enough to prove myself.
'Anyway, he didn't tell them about this, right?'
The third effect.
I could figure out how much information Auril Gabis had shared with the other members by asking this question.
If he had casually shared this kind of high-level information with them, the jewel wouldn't have emitted a green light.
'Well, I had a hunch after seeing that he didn't even tell them his name.'
Ah, for reference, there was a fourth reason.
To share information with the members.
After all, there was no mention of the Earth Witch being alive in the game.
I interpreted it as the old man, the game developer, intentionally hiding this fact.
Therefore…
'Damn right, it's always fun to reveal secrets.'
I had practically poisoned this group.
I didn't know how lethal this poison was, or if it would just be a slight sting…
'Judging by their expressions, it seems like a success.'
The four veterans had learned a secret that Auril Gabis wanted to hide.
It would definitely have a chain reaction.
In a way that Auril Gabis wouldn't want.
"I can't believe the Earth Witch is alive, I'll have to research her."
"The royal family must have known and hidden it. Maybe we can use this against them."
The Ruin Scholar, who looked like a child, was looking at me with scholarly interest, and the captain of Orculus was excited, like a warrior who had obtained a good sword.
And…
"If the Witch is really alive… where is she now?"
…the woman repeated the same question I had asked Auril Gabis.
Damn, she's smart.
"What's your name?"
The woman in the fancy dress frowned at my question.
And she muttered,
"…Rabi."
Rabi.
I didn't even know if it was her first or last name.
No, I didn't even know if it was her real name or an alias.
Damn it, I was going to ask her later…
"Why are you asking?"
The reason was obvious.
She was the only one here who didn't know my name.
Of course, I couldn't answer that way.
"Because you asked a stupid question."
"…?"
"Is there a reason why I should answer your question?"
It would be ridiculous to use honorifics with them when I was even talking down to the Master, so I just spoke to her like she was my subordinate.
But could it be that she was offended?
"...."
Rabi glared at me, biting her lip.
It was the perfect time to give her a carrot, judging by my one year of experience as Lion.
"But…"
"...?"
"…I might answer if you tell me something interesting."
Rabi hesitated at my arrogant words and then nodded as if she understood.
And she looked at me after taking a deep breath.
"So you want us to prove ourselves. Fine."
Her gaze was filled with competitive spirit.
It was a somewhat expected reaction.
Well, they were the elites gathered by the Master, so they must be proud. It was only natural for them to be angry after being talked down to by a stranger.
"...."
And besides, the other members were also looking at me with a slightly provoked gaze.
Okay, then the bait was set…
'Huh?'
I suddenly felt a gaze on me and turned my head.
Auril Gabis was staring at me.
'What the hell is this guy doing?' With that exact look in his eyes.
______________________
The order of the meeting was clockwise, starting with me.
In other words…
"It's my turn now, right?"
…the second turn was the old man's.
So I also listened intently.
To have to share information that more than half of the people here didn't know?
There had to be something useful—
"Then tell us."
Auril Gabis then shared his information.
"Miss Rabi, the Earth Witch is where everyone's hopes lie."
Damn it, this cunning old man.
He stole the information I was going to use next turn.
'Well, he probably said it first because he expected that.'
He must have judged that he had to resolve this first after seeing me use my information recycling technique.
Swaaaaaaaaaa.
The jewel emitted a green light.
The members muttered their usual reactions.
"Where everyone's hopes lie…"
"Is he talking about the labyrinth?"
"It could be interpreted that way, but it could also be referring to the outside world."
Hmm, so they didn't have any concrete ideas either.
"Well, we can talk about that later, so let's continue."
The meeting resumed as Auril Gabis took control.
The middle-aged man was next.
His name was…
'Kagureas.'
Right, that was it.
Amelia said she had never heard of that name.
Maybe it was an alias.
"Haha, I don't know what to say since it's my first time."
"Just relax. You must have something, right? An important story that others wouldn't know."
"Well, that's true, but…"
Kagureas, the muscular middle-aged man, hesitated, looking at us, and then sighed.
"I can't just brush it off with the Master here. I'll just say it."
"Go ahead."
"There's a portal in the basement of the royal palace."
What…?
Everyone except for Auril Gabis exclaimed in surprise as the jewel emitted a green light.
"A portal? Is it connected to the labyrinth?"
Although there was no reason for him to answer since his turn was over, Kagureas shrugged and said,
"I don't know for sure since I just happened to find it, but it doesn't seem to be connected to the labyrinth."
"This is… very interesting."
"Then where does it lead…"
The four of them naturally looked at me and Auril Gabis as the Ruin Scholar muttered in his old-man-like tone.
"...."
"...."
They didn't say anything, but their gazes were clear.
You guys know, right?
The eyes of those who were seeking answers, filled with questions.
"…Haha."
Auril Gabis just laughed.
And I…
"...."
…remained silent, as if I didn't even move.
I had learned from experience.
That this would at least get me halfway there.
The Lion Style.
Second Form, Silence.
Ah, of course, I was still thinking.
'A secret related to the royal palace… maybe he's from the royal family.'
Kagureas.
Just what kind of person is he?
I was even more curious about him since I didn't know anything about him, unlike the Captain or the Ruin Scholar.
But could it be that he didn't like the silence?
"Well, then it's my turn."
The Ruin Scholar, who had been quiet until now, spoke.
And he shared his information without hesitation.
"The principle of the labyrinth's cycle is life force."
I was confused.
But it seemed like I wasn't the only one.
"…Master Ruinjenes, can you explain it more simply? We're not as knowledgeable about magic as you."
"Simply, you say? Alright."
The Ruin Scholar elaborated at Kagureas' request.
"Contrary to what's known, the labyrinth isn't maintained by mana. It needs resources to circulate."
It sounded like gibberish to me.
But Rabi seemed to know something about magic.
"…You're saying that resource is life force."
The Ruin Scholar nodded as she spoke in understanding.
"But what does that even mean? No one here is curious about the principle of the labyrinth."
Kagureas said, as if he was dissatisfied.
Honestly, I felt the same way.
What's the point of knowing that—
"Tsk, how annoying."
Kagureas shut his mouth as the Ruin Scholar clicked his tongue.
It was a ridiculous sight, a muscular man being intimidated by a child, but I could understand.
The Ruin Scholar, despite his child-like appearance, had an intimidating aura.
"Can I explain instead?"
"Do what you want."
Rabi spoke up for the Ruin Scholar, who seemed offended.
"If the raw material of magic stones is life force, it means that the labyrinth is maintained by life force. If I understood correctly… everything changes."
"What do you mean?"
"It's not that humanity was rebuilt and this city was maintained because of the discovery of the labyrinth."
Rabi said,
"It's that the labyrinth is maintained because of this city."
I felt a chill run down my spine.
Wait a minute…
Is that true? If that's the case…
"…So the explorers who died in the labyrinth were practically fuel. The royal family must have known about this."
The Captain spoke, as if he had the same thought as me.
And…
"Well, that's how I understand it."
…Rabi shrugged and glanced at the Ruin Scholar.
"At least it's certain that the resource that maintains the labyrinth's cycle is life force. And it's only natural to suspect the royal family based on that."
"I, I see…"
"So, are we done? I think it's at least as valuable as that ambiguous information about a mysterious portal in the royal palace basement."
Kagureas smiled awkwardly at the Ruin Scholar's sharp words.
"Haha, don't be angry. People like me wouldn't understand unless you explained everything."
…Is this guy a barbarian?
I felt a sense of familiarity from his way of speaking, but it would be a stretch to assume his race.
There were many explorers like that.
"It's Miss Rabi's turn now."
Everyone's gaze turned towards the woman at Auril Gabis' words.
I was also a bit curious.
The information from the previous two was very interesting, and this woman had directly challenged me.
She would want to prove that she was at least on my level, even if she couldn't beat me.
"It's my turn."
The woman then spoke.
And she shared information that I didn't expect at all.
"The Ancient Dragon is dead. You probably didn't know, but he died over ten years ago."
I was dumbfounded.
She said it with a serious expression, as if she was sharing something amazing…
'But that's it?'
It was almost laughable, but the jewel emitted a green light.
Auril Gabis naturally knew about it, so it meant that the other three were hearing this for the first time.
"…I see. No wonder the Dragonkin have been quiet lately."
"So that's what happened."
"It's a shame that he died after living through the era of immortals."
The three of them nodded, as if they had heard a rare secret.
I was initially confused by their reaction, but it made sense when I thought about it.
The fact that the Dragonslayer, Regal Vagos, had killed the Ancient Dragon and stolen the tribe's sword was only revealed after a new Ancient Dragon was chosen.
'So it was around this time…?'
I couldn't remember the exact year since I hadn't studied history, but I think it was around this time.
'I didn't know they were keeping it a secret this thoroughly.'
I clicked my tongue in disappointment.
But did she notice?
"So, how is it? Is that an interesting story?"
"Well."
I didn't even understand why they were reacting like that to the death of the Dragonkin chieftain.
And why she was acting so proud.
The previous information was clearly much more valuable.
So I just said it honestly.
"I don't find it particularly valuable."
"…That's hard to understand."
Rabi glared at me, her pride hurt.
There was a hint of suspicion in her eyes.
She was probably wondering if I was intentionally ignoring her.
'No, if you're going to be arrogant, at least bring something more interesting.'
I had to put her in her place, for the sake of high-quality information.
Therefore…
'It's time to use my Third Form.'
I tapped my fingers on the table and said,
"It's not my turn, but I'll share something."
"What do you mean—"
Hey, don't interrupt me.
I quickly continued, not giving her a chance to interrupt, as if I could skip my turn for free.
"The one who killed the Ancient Dragon is a Dragonkin named Regal Vagos."
"…Huh?"
The woman, who was about to protest, flinched.
And after a slight delay…
Swaaaaaaaaaa.
…the jewel emitted a green light.
"...."
"...."
A familiar silence.
I looked at Rabi and said,
"So, are you convinced now?"
The Lion Style.
Third Form, Contempt.
-x-X-x-
"Regal Vagos…?"
"I've met him before. He was an explorer with a very useful Dragon Speech."
"A traitor who betrayed his tribe… this is interesting."
The Captain and Kagureas briefly exchanged words after I spoke.
It was a meaningful conversation.
Interesting?
It made me feel uneasy hearing those words from the captain of Orculus.
But I looked away from them.
And I stared at one person.
"...."
The woman in the fancy dress, Rabi.
Her lips parted slightly.
Her eyes were filled with shock.
"H, how did you…"
She was truly surprised, judging by how she even stuttered.
But there was no room for sympathy.
This was a world of ruthless competition.
Those who miss opportunities can't become predators.
Therefore…
"Th, that's impossible. Less than ten people know about this…"
I chuckled, looking at the confused Rabi.
And I spoke as if talking to a naive child.
"You're young."
She was probably much older than me, but what did it matter?
She didn't know anything about me.
"...."
Rabi's reaction was immediate.
Her lips were tightly pressed together.
Her face was flushed, her gaze fixed on me.
And a single question in her eyes.
"You…"
Rabi then spoke.
"Just who are you?"
Whether it was my name, my identity, or anything else, she didn't care, as long as she could learn something about me.
She asked me a very broad question.
"...."
The other members also watched with interest, not interrupting.
They were probably also curious about my identity.
Rabi's question must have scratched their itch.
But…
'Okay, the atmosphere is perfect.'
…I already had my answer prepared.
It might be a bit cliché now, but that meant it had worked well so far.
I spoke leisurely,
"Well, there's nothing I can't tell you."
The members' focus intensified at my words.
Really? Is he really going to tell us something?
I could see the anticipation in their eyes.
I looked at them one by one and then continued,
"If you're worthy."
"Huh…"
The Captain gasped, and…
"So you're saying we have to prove ourselves to hear your name? Whether we're worthy of associating with you?"
…Kagureas, the muscular middle-aged man, asked boldly.
And I didn't hesitate.
"Fortunately, you understood correctly."
I agreed.
After all, this is the era of self-promotion.
There's no need to be humble when there's nothing to gain.
"…Where did this guy come from?"
The Ruin Scholar chuckled at my arrogant words.
Come to think of it, it was my first time seeing him laugh.
He had been sipping tea most of the time, looking bored.
'I definitely got their attention—'
I was inwardly satisfied with the result when I suddenly felt a gaze on me.
It was Auril Gabis.
'Geez, how uncomfortable.'
He was staring at me blankly.
Again.
'What the hell is this guy doing?'
With that question in my eyes.
______________________
The meeting continued, moderated by Auril Gabis, despite the brief commotion.
"The King's envoy visited the Lord of Noark three months ago. Unfortunately, I couldn't find out what they talked about since they were very secretive."
The Captain, who was the last one to go this round, shared that information and received a green light.
"Hmm! That's interesting. I think this is the first time the royal family has directly contacted them."
"Maybe that's why…"
The Ruin Scholar muttered something meaningful, but it wasn't very useful information to me.
What's the point of knowing about the politics of twenty years ago?
The only thing I could learn from this information was that everyone who should know, including the royal family, was aware of the existence of the underground city.
"Then the next order is…"
Auril Gabis glanced at me after one round ended.
And he clicked his tongue, as if he was disappointed.
"We'll have to do it again without this friend. Does anyone want to go first?"
Kagureas raised his hand.
"I'll go first."
"Ah, is that so?"
"I'd rather get it over with. I have something I want to say."
"Then go ahead."
And so, the second round began with Kagureas' information.
"That… I obtained another Genesis Artifact."
It was shocking information, despite his casual tone.
My mind went blank.
It was an item that had completely disappeared twenty years later.
But he's saying he 'obtained another one'?
'Then he already had at least one?'
I almost gasped, but I barely managed to control myself.
But it seemed like I wasn't the only one who was shocked.
"What? Is that true?!"
The Ruin Scholar jumped up from his seat.
Rabi was also excited.
"Wh, which tribe's Genesis Artifact is it?"
"I can't tell you that."
"Then at least tell us how you obtained it…"
"How did I obtain it? I can only say… I was lucky."
"How can you obtain that item by luck…"
"Ah, don't be so harsh. To be precise, it's closer to me obtaining the right to borrow it when I need it."
Wow, this guy is amazing.
Now I realized that I had entered the world of veterans.
It wasn't that difficult to obtain one Genesis Artifact in the game. You just had to clear the main character's racial episode and become the chieftain.
The real challenge was the second Genesis Artifact.
You had to clear another race's episode and obtain the 'right to use' it, or make a companion character the 'chieftain'.
And that meant…
'It's actually possible to clear the game?'
I glanced at Auril Gabis.
His expression was unchanged.
In other words, it meant he already knew about this progress.
But why did this old man call them 'failures'?
"Anyway, the reason I'm revealing this here is because… Master, you're right, we've been together for a long time, but we've never really talked openly. But that needs to change now."
Kagureas continued as I was lost in thought.
"Well, I have two. And if Miss Rabi works hard, we might be able to get another one since the Ancient Dragon is dead."
"…Why are you saying that now?"
Rabi scolded Kagureas and then glanced at me.
But I had already heard everything I needed to hear.
'Right, as expected, he's from the Dragonkin tribe.'
"Ah, I apologize. I was being inconsiderate."
Kagureas apologized like a man and then continued.
"There are three left. And if we work together, I think we can get them… What do you guys think?"
Although he seemed to be asking everyone, his gaze was fixed on the Captain.
'Ah, come to think of it, those two were fighting last time.'
It was a gesture of reconciliation.
Then what about the Captain's answer?
"...."
He remained silent.
Kagureas then tried to persuade him.
"I know about your grudge against the King. But think rationally. They're just relationships you built in this world. Think about your family back in your original world—"
"Stop."
The Captain firmly cut him off.
And he unleashed a chilling killing intent, as if he had touched a nerve.
Kagureas also wiped the smile off his face.
"You really are trash. I thought we at least had the same goal."
"...."
"You said the royal family is the end of all questions? That you have to help me if you want to return? I was a fool to even consider it."
"Kagureas, please stop…"
"But Miss Rabi, you heard him too, didn't you? He doesn't even want to return."
"That's not true. Why would he keep coming here if he didn't?"
"It's obvious, isn't it? He can use us to kill the King. He's just planning to use us as pawns. Am I wrong?"
The Captain also spoke coldly as Kagureas looked at him aggressively.
"You're also hiding your true intentions, aren't you?"
"What?"
"You said you believed that Master Ruinjenes could complete the dimensional magic, but you were actually gathering Genesis Artifacts."
"…What's wrong with that? It's always better to have multiple options."
"But there's another reason why I objected when you tried to persuade Master Ruinjenes. If your goal is to gather all the Genesis Artifacts, then conflict with the royal family is inevitable, but you persistently tried to stop me."
"Ah, you're talking about that."
Kagureas spoke confidently, as if he had nothing to hide.
"I have good intuition. I had a hunch that you were just a sweet-talking bastard."
"...."
The Captain didn't say anything more.
He just glared at Kagureas, his killing intent intensifying.
I almost gasped.
'…His killing intent is on another level.'
It was a world of difference compared to the Round Table members twenty years later.
My skin tingled and my breathing became heavy, even though it wasn't directed at me.
That's when…
"Haha, everyone's getting heated."
…Auril Gabis intervened.
And…
"Let's end this here for today."
…he said something unexpected.
"Everyone go back and rest, and we'll see each other next time."
…What?
Wait, he's ending it here?
We haven't even started properly.
He should at least let us finish one round. I had a plan…
"No—"
That's when, as I was about to say something…
Flash!
…my vision blurred.
And when I opened my eyes again…
"…I'm already back?"
…I saw Amelia's familiar face.
Damn it, so I was kicked out.
______________________
"How much time has passed?"
"About three seconds since you closed your eyes."
Three seconds…
It was only natural for Amelia to look at me strangely.
It must have felt like an instant to her.
She probably couldn't believe it.
"Here."
Amelia handed me a glass of water as I reached for the nightstand.
What the…
"Ah, uh… thank you."
Amelia awkwardly looked away as I thanked her, flustered.
"So what happened?"
"Ah, that…"
Damn it, where do I even begin?
I couldn't summarize it since so much had happened, so I just told her everything from the beginning. I thought she might be able to find something I missed…
"Wait, Auril Gabis apologized? To that ridiculous demand?"
"So?"
"…Never mind, continue."
Amelia's gaze, which had been becoming more and more meaningful as I told her about my battle of nerves with Auril Gabis and the Round Table…
…suddenly changed.
It was the gaze I had seen countless times at the Round Table.
"You… just what kind of person are you?"
-x-X-x-
A high-class restaurant in the 7th District, known for its exquisite cuisine.
Arrua Raven had chosen this place for a long-awaited clan gathering.
It was her first time visiting this establishment.
Choosing a familiar spot would only bring back painful memories and worsen her mood.
"Aren't you going to order?"
"Not yet, not everyone's here."
Raven's curt reply made Avman shift uncomfortably in his seat.
An awkward silence hung in the air.
"Actually, everyone's here."
Ainar broke the silence.
"...Misha said she wasn't coming. I was hoping she might change her mind, but if she hasn't come by now, she's not coming."
"...I see. So it's just the three of us."
Raven couldn't help but sigh.
Two more sighs followed, echoing her sentiment.
It was a somber atmosphere, understandable given the circumstances.
"Raven."
"Yes, Mr. Urikfrit?"
"Have you... contacted Erwen? Did you tell her about this?"
"Yes, I sent her a letter. I told her we needed to discuss the loot from the last expedition and... Yandel's legacy, so she should come."
She had sent the letter out of obligation, but she didn't expect the fairy to show up.
Not after the way she left last time.
"Did she reply?"
"No, she didn't. I'm planning to send her share of the loot and everything by mail once we're done here."
"...I see."
"It's a shame that Misha isn't coming either. I thought she would definitely be here since she's the most important person in this matter."
Raven sighed again, looking at Ainar.
And she cautiously asked,
"...How is Misha doing? Is she okay?"
She was genuinely worried about her.
The last time she saw Misha was at the royal family's funeral procession. They were too far apart to talk, and the atmosphere wasn't exactly conducive to conversation.
So how was she holding up?
"...How could she be okay? She's been cooped up in her room all day, not even eating properly. I forced her to eat once, and she threw up."
"I see..."
"I don't even go home much these days. She seems uncomfortable when I'm around."
"Then where are you staying, Ainar?"
"At the sanctuary. But she seems to eat at least something when I'm not there. I just bought a lot of food and left it at the house."
"...That's good to hear."
"Raven, what do you think? Should we just leave Misha alone?"
"That's..."
Raven drew from her own experience over the past month.
"She's not eating because of guilt, I think. You know, the act of eating itself... makes her uncomfortable..."
She rambled, unlike her usual self, but Ainar and Avman nodded in understanding.
"Ah, that's it."
"I think I understand. But what should we do?"
"...I don't know how to help her. Maybe she needs some time alone, but I'm not sure if that's the right answer."
"Well, you wouldn't know the answer."
Ainar's words, though not malicious, made Raven feel both frustrated and sad.
Ainar was right.
If he were here, he would have known what to do.
"Let's order first. We'll get kicked out if we just sit here."
Avman sensed the mood and changed the subject. Raven also moved on from the heavy topic and helped choose the food.
"This restaurant is new to me, but the food is delicious. Why aren't you eating?"
"Ah, yes..."
They ate and chatted while enjoying the meal, and then they moved on to business.
"There's no problem with the loot distribution. We just have to split it equally among the five of us. The problem is the inheritance... Did you all see Yandel's will?"
"Ah, I saw it. There was nothing in it except for how to distribute the inheritance. Well, it was just like him..."
Avman trailed off and chuckled.
And he cautiously brought up a question.
"But isn't it strange?"
"Strange? What do you mean?"
"The distribution ratio. To be honest, I don't understand why he chose to distribute it like this."
"Ah, you mean that..."
Raven nodded, her expression mirroring his sentiment.
She had also been surprised.
She never expected him to specify that the inheritance be divided equally among the five of them.
She assumed most of it would go to Misha and Ainar.
But Bjorn Yandel was different.
He didn't specify who got what, just the ratio. They would have to decide among themselves who got which item, but the ratio was fixed.
And the reason for that was probably...
"You're trailing off, so I guess you have a hunch?"
Raven smiled bitterly and replied,
"It's obvious, isn't it? Why he did that."
The clever barbarian warrior had wanted this.
For them to not resent each other after his death.
For them to continue supporting each other.
"...We can't just leave Misha alone like this."
Yes, that's what he would have wanted.
___________________
Three days after the community session.
Amelia and I, fully equipped, visited the clan house.
And we met a man there.
"Nice to meet you. You're Iron Mask, right?"
His nickname in Noark was 'Pelic Barker'.
He was the leader of the clan where the young Rainwales sisters were 'runners'.
The clan had thirteen members, if I remember correctly.
"Nice to meet you. I'm Iron Mask."
I had another nickname, 'Thor's son Bjorn', but I just introduced myself with my main nickname.
It wasn't a big deal.
Nicknames were often used as aliases in this city.
"Come in."
We followed him into the clan house, and the smell of alcohol hit us.
The interior was stylishly decorated, and the clan members, all rough-looking individuals, were sitting around drinking and smoking.
It didn't feel like a criminal hideout.
"Would you like a drink?"
Pelic Barker offered me a bottle of alcohol as soon as we sat down on the sofa.
"No, thank you."
Amelia flatly refused, but I accepted the bottle.
It would be strange if neither of us drank.
We were here to join their clan, after all. Refusing alcohol in this city meant you didn't trust the other person.
So...
Click.
I lifted the chin guard of my helmet and took a swig.
Pelic Barker grinned.
"Good, good. I like your style. Ah, but can I ask you something?"
"Go ahead."
"Why did you choose our clan?"
The answer was simple.
The Rainwales sisters were in this clan.
It was the best way to be near them when the incident happened five months later.
Of course, I couldn't say that.
"Emily said you were the ones who made the offer."
"But there are other good clans out there. Especially considering your reputation."
I gave him the answer I had prepared beforehand.
"A clan would be convenient, but I'd rather get a bigger share of the loot."
"You'd rather have the troll's head than the ogre's claw."
"Yeah, is there a problem with that?"
Pelic Barker stared at me intently, trying to gauge my intentions.
But it was futile.
I was wearing a full-face helmet, how could he possibly see my eyes?
I chuckled inwardly, and then...
"Ha! Hahahaha!"
He suddenly burst into laughter, his eyes gleaming.
Unlike Auril Gabis, he just seemed ridiculous.
Was he trying to act like some kind of mafia boss?
His voice even had a theatrical tone.
"Good, very good."
"What's so good about it?"
"I like you even more."
"So we're in?"
"Not yet."
Pelic Barker wagged his finger, acting like a mafia boss.
"We're a meritocracy. There are three ranks within the clan, excluding me, and the share of the loot is determined by your rank. But we don't know your skills yet."
"...?"
"Have you heard of the law of the jungle?"
"I have."
"Then this will be quick. If you want the troll's head, take it. And prove yourself. This is that kind of world—"
Ah, what was he going to say?
"I'll do it."
"...Huh?"
"You want to see if the rumors are true, right?"
"That's true, but..."
"Then it's settled. Why are you so talkative?"
I stood up abruptly, and Pelic Barker looked up at me with a startled expression.
Did he think I would back down if he acted tough?
I hate these kinds of side quests.
Skip them quickly.
"Just tell me. Should I kill you?"
"...Contests are only allowed between clan members. And you don't have to kill—"
Ah, how boring.
"Then who should I kill?"
I scanned the clan members.
One of them, a large man, flinched when our eyes met.
"It seems like he's my opponent."
"That's right. But you don't have to kill—"
Shut up, you're annoying.
I walked towards the large man with a murderous look, and he backed away, glancing at Pelic Barker.
A look of someone seeking salvation.
Pelic Barker finally snapped out of his daze and spoke.
"Wait! There's an empty lot behind us."
"Ah, we'll move there."
"And... you're not allowed to use abilities during the contest."
What? Seriously? No skills allowed?
He wanted us to fight with only our passive skills and base stats.
Was this the true spirit of Noark, a world of true men?
"Kill him without using abilities... Well, it doesn't seem that difficult."
I thought for a moment and then readily agreed.
But then...
Pelic Barker spoke in a barely audible voice.
"I'd prefer it if no one died..."
I was genuinely surprised.
"Then how can I get promoted?!"
"...Just get him to surrender."
"What? I don't have to kill him to get promoted?"
Isn't a bloody promotion battle the norm in these underground worlds?
And he was the one who talked about the law of the jungle earlier.
"What's going on? How is this possible?"
I stared at him, genuinely confused.
He looked back at me with a similar expression.
"You... haven't been in Noark for a month, have you?"
"So?"
"Never mind..."
Pelic Barker was the first to avert his gaze.
_____________________
A dark room with thick curtains covering the windows.
Misha Kaltstein sat up in bed, her eyes heavy with exhaustion.
Another day had begun.
She peeked through the curtains to check if it was daytime and then collapsed back onto the bed.
Sleep wouldn't come.
Her body was covered in sweat from the nightmares that plagued her sleep.
And her stomach ached with hunger.
"...Ugh."
Misha dragged herself out of bed.
And she stood in front of Yandel's room, the door she hadn't touched since that day. It felt like he would be sleeping inside, waiting for her.
But she couldn't bring herself to open the door.
Thump.
She turned away, her heart heavy.
And she went downstairs.
The first floor was as dark as the second floor.
The curtains were drawn to block out the sunlight, a courtesy to the visitors who came to pay their respects.
Misha muttered in a dry voice,
"They came and went again..."
A note from Ainar was on the dining table, written in her messy handwriting. It said she had filled the pantry, so check it.
Click.
Misha opened the pantry.
Rye bread and vegetables, the ingredients she often used for cooking.
Meat and fruits.
It was filled with the things she used to enjoy.
But...
"Ugh..."
The sight made her nauseous.
She couldn't even stand the smell.
Bjorn loved rye bread.
And meat, of course.
She always bought extra vegetables because Bjorn was a picky eater, and she often ended up eating them herself.
Misha closed the pantry door, feeling like she was going to throw up.
But she knew she had to eat.
If she didn't, her body would give out.
And Yandel wouldn't want that.
"Bjorn..."
She sat down at the table in the dark kitchen, her body slumping.
She sobbed for a long time, and then she got up and walked back to the pantry.
At that moment...
"Oh, you're here? I thought no one was home."
A man's voice came from behind.
'A burglar?'
Misha grabbed a knife from the counter and turned around. Despite her disheveled appearance, her movements were surprisingly quick.
But...
"Whoa, whoa, easy there."
The stranger grabbed her wrist and easily disarmed her.
She struggled, but he was too strong.
"It's been a while, and you greet me with a knife?"
"Been a while...?"
Misha looked up at the stranger's face.
It was dark, but she could make out his features.
He looked familiar.
He was human.
His skin was pale, without a single scar, as if he had lived a sheltered life. His platinum blonde hair was neatly combed back.
And most importantly...
[Cat girl, are you a player?]
[Huh? Pl, player?]
[I'm asking if you're an evil spirit.]
[Ah, ah, no... I'm not...?]
His unique, lighthearted yet chilling tone.
She remembered him.
"You're... that guy from before...!"
"You remember me? I'm Lee Baekho. I'll let you go, so just stay calm."
"...!"
The man with the strange name, Lee Baekho, let go of her wrist as promised.
Misha rubbed her sore wrist and stepped back.
Lee Baekho smiled reassuringly.
"Don't be so scared."
A shiver ran down her spine.
His smile didn't reach his eyes.
"I just have one question for you."
-x-X-x-
Misha's body froze as if she had encountered a predator.
Her heart pounded erratically.
Despite her constant thoughts of wanting to die, her body instinctively clung to life. As if reading her mind, Lee Baekho's smile widened.
"You know Bjorn Yandel is a player, right?"
"No, I don't. What are you talking ab—"
Misha immediately denied it, but Lee Baekho didn't even bother listening to the rest of her sentence.
"Oh, so you did know?"
His tone didn't sound like he was simply testing her.
"..."
Misha met his gaze, trying to decipher his intentions.
And...
She flinched.
She unconsciously held her breath.
His eyes were empty, a bottomless abyss that seemed to pierce through her facade and see right through her.
She felt exposed, vulnerable.
As Misha trembled, unable to speak, he finally spoke.
"How did Bjorn Yandel die?"
His voice was flat, devoid of emotion, as if he was simply seeking confirmation.
But Misha sensed an underlying anger.
She couldn't understand why.
Could they have been close? No, that didn't make sense. If they were, why would he be directing his anger at her?
"They say in the city that he died buying time for you to escape..."
The air suddenly grew heavy.
"You didn't kill him, did you?"
An oppressive pressure weighed down on her, making it difficult to breathe.
And the anger in his voice intensified.
"You knew he was an evil spirit, didn't you? So you just backstabbed him and took everything? I heard he even left his inheritance to you. That's a pretty good reason to kill someone, isn't it?" РАŊòᛒЁＳ
"That's ridiculous—"
"Ridiculous? You don't even see us as human."
His tone was cynical, mocking.
Misha realized that he had experienced something similar.
That realization felt like a knife twisting in her heart.
It wasn't just because she was afraid of him...
Could Bjorn have felt this way too?
Had he been secretly worried that she would despise him if she knew his true identity?
Had he been drawing a line between them all along?
And...
What were his last thoughts?
The thought of it made her chest tighten.
He must have been scared.
That's why he didn't leave anything in his will.
He always smiled in front of them, but behind that smile, there must have been a deep loneliness.
But...
"Answer me. Did you kill him?"
One thing was certain.
He cared about them more than anyone.
So Misha looked him in the eye and said,
"That's... impossible..."
She knew her words wouldn't reach him, but she had to say it.
"How... could we do that to him...?"
She couldn't.
And she regretted it.
She should have told him sooner. Then he wouldn't have had to worry about them.
"..."
Misha closed her eyes.
She wasn't afraid of this stranger anymore.
She just endured the overwhelming emotions that washed over her.
Then...
"...You have good companions."
Lee Baekho spoke.
"Unlike me."
His voice was no longer that of a tyrant, but one tinged with sadness.
Misha opened her eyes.
The oppressive pressure had vanished.
"You're Misha Kaltstein, right?"
"Y, yes... but...?"
Misha was confused by his sudden change in attitude, and Lee Baekho smiled.
"How would you feel if I told you there's a way to bring Bjorn Yandel back to life?"
His eyes crinkled at the corners, but his smile didn't reach them.
______________________
Two weeks had passed since I joined Pelic Barker's clan.
And...
Crackle.
I was sitting by a crackling campfire.
We were camping in the Rocky Desert on the 2nd floor.
Behind me, four explorers were busy setting up camp.
Ah, it was on my orders.
It would take too long if I let one of the runners handle everything, as they usually did.
"Ugh, why do we have to do this..."
"Shut up, they'll hear you."
They already heard you, idiot.
I chuckled, watching them work. One of them, a muscular but soft man, caught my eye.
He was the one I fought on my first day in the clan, the one who almost got his head split open in the 'contest'.
His explorer rank was 6, based on the surface standards.
He lost to me in 3 seconds, and barely survived thanks to a potion.
What was his name again?
"Dumbo."
"...It's Derbon."
Ah, right.
I had mispronounced his name, but he didn't have to get so worked up about it.
He didn't even know what was important.
His name was probably an alias anyway.
"You still haven't learned your lesson?"
I got up and walked towards him.
He started trembling, remembering the beating he received on our first meeting.
Why act tough if you're going to be this scared?
"Dumbo."
I placed my hand on his shoulder, the weight of my position as the 3rd Team Leader of Barker Clan pressing down on him.
"Do I look like a joke to you?"
I squeezed his shoulder and continued,
"Your name is Dumbo now. It's easier for me to pronounce. Got it?"
"..."
"Answer me."
"...Yes."
Good, you should have just agreed from the beginning.
I patted Dumbo's shoulder, encouraging him after his successful name change, and sent him back to work.
And I returned to the campfire and started eating jerky.
Munch, munch.
After winning three 'contests' on my first day in the clan, I was promoted to 3rd Team Leader with the clan leader's approval.
And in Noark, a world of true men, the team leader's authority is absolute.
Especially in the labyrinth.
'Is this the taste of power?'
I was enjoying my newfound authority, watching them work, when a skinny explorer came over and reported that the camp was ready.
"You can go to sleep now. We'll take care of the watch..."
What was this guy's name again?
'I can't remember.'
Anyway, he was our team's scout.
He wasn't a Guide, and his navigation skills were slightly worse than Rotmiller's. But he had been looting for a long time, so he knew all the good spots.
"I'm not sleepy yet, I'll stay up a bit longer. You're the first watch, right? I'll wake you up if I get sleepy, so you guys go to sleep first."
"Ah, yes..."
I gave them permission to sleep, and the skinny scout relayed the message to his companions before getting into his sleeping bag.
And...
"Can I sit down?"
"Of course."
A red-haired woman sat down across from me.
She was our team's runner, a young girl with a mature aura despite her youthful appearance.
Amelia's older sister.
"What was your name again?"
"Laura Rainwales."
Laura answered formally, her eyes wary of her new team leader.
I felt a strange sense of dissonance.
'They look alike, but their personalities are completely different.'
Their features were similar.
But Laura had a much gentler and friendlier aura.
Even though I knew she had killed a seasoned explorer at the age of twelve to protect her younger sister, and despite her formal tone.
"Is there something wrong?"
"No, I was just thinking you must have been through a lot."
"Ah..."
Laura looked surprised.
She probably didn't expect me to say something like that. I was known for being harsh on my team members.
"Your sister is also a runner, right?"
"Yes, she's working under Team Leader Martis."
"Aren't you worried about her?"
"..."
Laura pursed her lips and glanced at me. She seemed curious about my intentions.
But she must have decided that it wasn't wise to ignore her new team leader's question.
"I'm not worried at all. I believe Team Leader Martis will take good care of my sister."
Laura gave a rehearsed answer.
Ugh, this makes me feel like a spy.
"It's okay, you can be honest. You're sisters, of course you'd be worried."
I pressed her, and Laura finally opened up a bit.
"I'm worried, but I believe Team Leader Martis won't mistreat my sister or send her to dangerous places."
"Why?"
"...Because I'm valuable to him."
I already knew that.
She had absorbed four low-grade essences, if I remember correctly.
But she was still a runner.
A runner, despite being strong enough to be a full-fledged explorer. She received good treatment for a runner, but she was still a slave to the clan, unable to claim her share of the loot.
"You gave up your share in exchange for him looking after your sister."
"It's not like I can keep the money I earn anyway. I was the one who brought her to this clan when our father tried to sell her as a runner."
"Why?"
"At least in this clan... she wouldn't have to go through those things."
"You're a good sister."
Laura didn't answer, and an awkward silence followed.
It wasn't uncomfortable, though.
I just sat there, staring into the fire, lost in thought. And when I started to feel sleepy, I got up.
"I'm going to sleep now."
"Yes."
"You've been on watch for about an hour, switch with the next person in another hour."
"Yes? But my shift is..."
"You'll be too tired to fight tomorrow if you stay up for two shifts. You said you could handle it yourself, didn't you?"
"..."
"So switch with the next person in an hour and go to sleep. If anyone asks, tell them I ordered you to."
I got into my sleeping bag and lay down.
Laura tried to say something, but she sighed and closed her mouth when she heard me snoring.
'Laura Rainwales...'
I kept thinking about her as I drifted off to sleep.
How could I save her?
____________________
The next morning, after our first night in the Rocky Desert, we resumed our journey.
We arrived at the Pilgrim's Path on the 3rd floor on the second day, and we continued towards the clan's gathering point through the Twilight Slope, the Rocky Desert route.
The Thornreed Field.
A hunting ground that encompassed part of the western field of the Witch's Forest, the heart of the 3rd floor.
When we arrived on the fourth day, all the other teams were already there.
"..."
I exchanged a brief glance with Amelia and then headed towards the clan leader.
"Any problems on the way here?"
"None. They're all skilled."
"Haha, they might not be as strong as you, but they're all capable explorers."
Does this guy not know how to filter his words?
I chuckled and sat down on an empty chair next to him.
"Now that everyone's here, we should get moving, but I'll go over the plan one more time since we have some new members."
Clan Leader Pelic Barker smoothly transitioned into his briefing.
There wasn't much to explain.
We were going to loot other explorers, using this reed forest as our base.
"I'll say this beforehand, but if you encounter an opponent that seems too strong, contact the other teams through the scout. We'll come and help you immediately."
He finished his brief briefing and asked if anyone had any questions. I immediately raised my hand.
"Isn't this a bit inefficient?"
"...Inefficient?"
The clan leader looked at me as if I had said something strange.
He probably found it odd that a barbarian was talking about efficiency.
I felt a bit offended.
What other race values efficiency as much as barbarians?
"Speak your mind."
As soon as he gave me permission, I spoke confidently.
"Using runners is a problem. Why do we even do that?"
"I told you before, having an inside man is a huge advantage when ambushing. It also reduces the cost of combat consumables."
"What are you talking about? That's not what I meant."
"...Huh?"
Then what do you mean?
The clan leader frowned at me.
So I explained patiently, like a teacher instructing a slow student.
"That way, we can only kill 'good' explorers who let the runners in. And 'good' explorers are usually poor."
"...What are you trying to say?"
"We should be hunting looters, like us. Then we can take all the equipment they looted from others!"
I explained my plan in detail, and a brief silence followed.
And then laughter erupted.
"Hahahaha!"
"Why are you laughing?"
"Ah, sorry if I offended you. I've been in Noark for over ten years, and I've never heard of such a thing."
"So, what's your answer?"
"It sounds logical, but you're missing the most important part. We're not the Gods of Justice. How are we supposed to distinguish between looters and explorers?"
Haha, I knew he would say that.
I grinned and said,
"Don't worry, I have a plan."