Raven climbed the stairs and entered the ship's officer's cabin.
Her assistant, whom she had sent ahead, and the squad leaders were all gathered there.
"Vice-Captain Raven! You're safe! That's a relief! We were just about to form a support team—"
"I have to make a report, so please leave."
"…Yes? Ah, yes!"
The officers obeyed her order without question, sensing her urgency.
The cabin was empty in a matter of seconds.
"...."
Raven placed her hand on the military message stone, her expression complex.
"Nia Lafdonia. Arrua Raven, Vice-Captain of the 3rd Magic Corps. My return was delayed due to securing an escape route for the unit members. Please share the current situation."
[Nia Lafdonia. Eltora Terserion, Chief of Staff of the 3rd Corps. I was worried after hearing that you went to stop the Blood Knight, but it's good to hear that you're safe.]
"…Excuse me, but why is the Chief of Staff contacting me instead of the Corps Commander…?"
[Because I'm the second-in-command who takes over when the commander is absent during wartime.]
"Absent… sir?"
[Viscount Lamreond has perished. He was ambushed by a group of criminals led by Ricardo Liuhen Praha, the Traitor, while giving the order for all units to assemble and relocate.]
"That's impossible…"
[The attacks stopped after all troops retreated to the lake, but we can't be sure what will happen next, so you should take command of your unit and defend the perimeter until further notice.]
The Chief of Staff then briefly shared information about the estimated casualties and the enemy forces.
And…
[I think that's all you need to know. Now, tell me. Was it really the Blood Knight?]
Raven briefly summarized the events, omitting unnecessary details, and reported to her superior.
How she stayed behind to stop the Blood Knight.
How the enemy reinforcements arrived.
And how they retreated after killing the 'Lighthouse Keeper'.
She only reported the results, omitting the process.
It wasn't just to save time.
She wouldn't have hesitated if that was the case.
[You killed the Lighthouse Keeper… That's good news. Well done. Tell the Blood Spirit Marquis that she'll be rewarded for her achievements.]
Her superior thought that the Blood Spirit Marquis was responsible for the victory, but the truth was completely different.
Lihen Schuitz.
It was thanks to that man that no one had been injured by the infamous Blood Knight, and he was the one who killed the Lighthouse Keeper.
But…
[I'll end the call now.]
…Raven couldn't bring herself to say it.
And that wasn't all.
'Amelia Rainwales.'
She didn't mention the woman who had performed as well as the Blood Spirit Marquis during the battle. Even though she was certain that the woman was the same Noark explorer she had met on Parune Island. řÄＮôᛒƐś
She had intentionally omitted the information.
Although she hadn't lied, she had undoubtedly neglected her duty as a soldier.
"Ha…"
She felt a deep sense of guilt.
But what could she do?
She needed time to organize her thoughts.
'Lihen Schuitz…'
The man who had introduced himself with that name.
Until now, she had thought that he was just someone who resembled the man Erwen had lost.
But after seeing [Gigantification], she had a hunch.
What if he wasn't just a look-alike?
What if Erwen was calling him 'mister' for that reason?
What if he was really alive?
"…I don't know."
She was confused.
Nothing was certain.
She wanted to believe it was him, but there were also many differences.
'His height and his face.'
And…
[Your… your b-back…!]
The blood she felt when she unconsciously reached out to touch his wound was warm and sticky.
It should have stung if it was his blood.
And there was another difference.
'…He's too strong.'
His body that blocked the Blood Knight's Aura.
The strange ability that reflected magic.
And even the ability to drag enemies towards him using wind.
The old Yandel wouldn't have been able to do that against such powerful enemies.
But…
'Time has passed.'
Maybe he had absorbed new essences and become stronger.
Even Erwen and she herself had changed a lot in the past two years.
'If that's the case…'
The more Raven organized the information, the more she was convinced that Bjorn Yandel was alive.
The decisive factor was Amelia's presence.
Although she couldn't find any concrete evidence, there were still unanswered questions about his death.
But the woman who had disappeared with him was alive?
It strongly suggested that he might be alive too.
But the problem was…
'If it's really him, what should I do?'
Bjorn Yandel is an evil spirit.
The royal family had officially announced it, and she had known about it before the announcement.
She had seen his expression.
[You said there's a rumor going around that Yandel is an evil spirit... It's not just a rumor, is it?]
Misha, who had been closest to Yandel, didn't answer.
But her trembling eyes held the truth.
Click, click.
Raven bit her nails for the first time in a long time.
It was a habit she only had when she was stressed.
She couldn't think straight.
She wanted him to be alive, but she also didn't want him to be.
But...
"Well, I'll have to confirm it."
Raven made up her mind.
She knew.
That she couldn't just run away and avoid her duty, no matter how scared she was.
______________________
No. 399 Cage of Silence.
A trap-type Numbered Item activated when a spatial movement ability is used within a certain radius.
"She's... not going to come back, is she?"
"She will. And probably soon."
"How can you be so sure?"
"This cage doesn't last forever."
To be precise, it lasted for two hours after activation.
And it had a long cooldown.
'And we can't even attack them while they're trapped.'
It was an item solely for 'restraint'.
All attacks from the outside were blocked when it was active.
So people usually surrounded the cage after trapping the enemy and then ganged up on them when it was deactivated…
Thud.
The soldier guarding us saluted as soon as he heard footsteps from the hallway.
"Nia Lafdonia!"
Right, she's back.
"Thank you for guarding them. I need to talk to them, so can you leave us alone for a moment? And please keep this a secret."
"Yes!"
Raven returned alone after about an hour, and she even dismissed the soldier.
It was a positive sign, but it was too early to relax.
Raven stood in front of the cage, silently observing us, and I asked,
"...What are you going to do with us?"
"You're still using that tone?"
Damn it, she's coming at us strong.
Should I just reveal my identity and try to persuade her to help us?
As I was contemplating, Raven continued,
"...Take off your helmet."
I obediently took off my helmet, which was stained with the Lighthouse Keeper's blood.
Raven's expression didn't change.
"...And your armor."
What does she think I am?
Men and women shouldn't be together after the age of seven!
"I can't comply with an unreasonable request of a sexual nature. Even if I were a woman, I wouldn't—"
"What are you talking about?"
Raven just glared at me as I tried to explain why I couldn't take off my armor.
This is getting a bit scary...
"...I haven't reported you to my superiors yet. Or about Miss Rainwales. But if you don't comply with my request, things will be different—"
"I'll take it off."
"You're... being curt."
What the hell, there's no way for us to escape anyway.
I took off my armor, revealing my back, which was covered in wounds.
And...
"...!"
Raven's expression finally changed.
Her eyes widened, her gaze fixed on the tattoo hidden beneath my armor.
Phew, this feels better.
"It's been a while, Raven."
"..."
"You were expecting this, weren't you?"
Raven bit her lip and glared at me at my question.
"...I was hoping it wasn't true."
"Because I'm an evil spirit?"
"Yes. I wish it could have just remained a good memory..."
Raven trailed off sadly.
I also felt a tightness in my chest.
So she couldn't accept the fact that I was an evil spirit.
"Wait!"
"...?"
"Raven, it's a misunderstanding that I'm an evil spirit."
I quickly tried to persuade her.
"Misunderstanding?"
"Yes, I'm not an evil spirit."
"Then what's with that appearance?"
Raven clenched her fists, looking at me.
"It seems like you shrunk your height by absorbing an essence like 'Bone Knight'... If you're not an evil spirit, why would you go through all this trouble to hide your identity?"
Right, I knew she would ask that.
"The royal family had already announced it when I returned. And I found some suspicious aspects to it, so I decided to hide my identity for now."
"...I agree that the announcement is suspicious. But 'for now'? And 'returned'? What do you mean?"
Okay, so I managed to pique her curiosity.
"It's a long story. There's this thing called the Fragment of Records—"
"Wait!"
Raven cut me off.
"There's no need for a long explanation. This is enough."
There was a familiar item in her hand.
No. 7234 Distorted Trust.
The consumable item that prevented anyone within a 10-meter radius from lying.
"You know what this is, right? I received it from Mr. Parteian in the Doppelganger Forest. I used the remaining budget from the corps to recharge it."
She was well-prepared.
Whoosh!
She had even activated it. The second hand on the compass-sized disc started to move.
And then...
"So, tell me. Is it really a misunderstanding?"
Raven asked, staring at me intently.
'...Will it work?'
I was a bit nervous.
I hadn't actually tested if Auril Gabis' 'gift' worked.
I was planning to buy 'Distorted Trust' or something similar and test it before revealing myself.
But...
"Raven, it's really a misunderstanding. I'm not an evil spirit."
Well, it seemed to be working since I could say it—
Click.
The second hand suddenly stopped.
"...What did you just do?"
"Uh..."
The second hand started moving again as I trailed off.
Was it just a temporary error?
"I don't know either..."
I quickly feigned ignorance, and 'Distorted Trust' stopped working again.
And then...
Tick, tock.
After a brief pause, it started working again.
"...Why does it stop working when he speaks?"
I gulped at Raven's question.
'He said I wouldn't be affected by these items...'
Damn old man.
He should have told me beforehand!
-x-X-x-
In a way, it was like a cliche from a detective novel.
All circumstantial evidence pointed to the culprit, but the most crucial physical evidence was missing.
That was my situation.
'What kind of gift is this?!'
It might have worked before the prejudice against evil spirits set in.
But now, I needed solid evidence to prove my innocence.
Otherwise, it would only make me look more suspicious.
Like this.
"Say this: I am a woman."
Raven's request after 'Distorted Trust' malfunctioned.
Her goal was clear.
Although she didn't know why it was happening, she wanted to figure it out by changing the conditions and experimenting.
Therefore, there was only one thing I could do.
"I…! Ugh, my voice…! It seems like I can't speak because it's a lie—"
"Stop messing around!!"
Uh… I wasn't messing around, I was trying my best.
Is it really this difficult to get past this?
"Just say anything."
"…I'm really not an evil spirit. Believe me, Raven."
The second hand stopped again as I repeated the same thing.
But this time, Raven didn't miss the opportunity.
"I'm a man. What the… it really works."
Right, so when it malfunctions, it affects everyone, not just me.
Another thing I learned.
Damn it.
Tick, tock.
The disc resumed working as soon as the second hand started moving again.
"I'm a man… hmm, it's not working now."
"...."
"You're doing something, aren't you?"
Why is she looking at me so suspiciously?
Well, it was true that I was the cause…
But I had to deny it.
"This is unfair! You brought a defective product and you're blaming me?!"
"Defective product? Is it normal for it to stop working when you speak?"
It was definitely suspicious.
I would have also been skeptical if I were in her shoes.
But I couldn't just admit it, could I?
I raised my voice.
"I didn't do anything!! It's true! Believe me!!"
If 'Distorted Trust' couldn't distinguish between truth and lies, it meant that the one who shouted the loudest was more likely to win the argument—
"…Just shut up, you're being loud."
…but why is she glaring at me?
This is scary.
"...."
I instinctively shut my mouth, and Raven also stopped talking, lost in thought.
And then…
"…Tell me."
"Huh?"
"You were about to say something. Just say it."
"Ah…"
It was like the primordial era, when there was no magic or science.
A time when words were enough to build trust.
'What a wonderful world.'
"What do you mean you 'returned'? What were you doing before that?"
"I'll tell you everything."
I then explained what had happened on Parune Island after the two of us were left alone.
How we defeated 'Stormgush' together.
How the essence dropped.
"So you used that to pull the Lighthouse Keeper towards you…"
"Yes, I combined it with Bion's [Transcendence]."
"That's probably true. Continue."
I also told her about the 'Fragment of Records', the treasure the Lord of Noark had, before moving on to the next incident, and Raven surprisingly accepted it easily. ꞦÂΝồΒΕș
"I've heard of it. I didn't know that was the treasure Drowus stole. The legend says it can change the past, right?"
"It's not a legend, it's true. Well, I couldn't change history, but…"
"...?"
"You'll understand if you listen."
How the Fragment of Records activated.
How I woke up in the past twenty years ago.
"…It's unbelievable, but it does explain why only your equipment was left on the island."
It seemed like she was starting to get suspicious, but she didn't interrupt.
And…
"Nibels… Enche?"
Raven tilted her head when I told her about borrowing the identity of 'Nibels Enche', whose ID card I obtained after killing the looters on the island.
'Oh, does she remember?'
I briefly had a glimmer of hope, but reality is reality.
"…That name sounds familiar."
Well, she was only five back then.
How could she remember?
'Okay, then next…'
It was time for Dwarkey to make his appearance.
I then told her about how I tried to change his fate, but realized that history would always flow in its original direction, no matter what I did.
"The things I did… they had already happened in the original timeline."
"There has been research on time since ancient times. It's the single-dimensional timeline theory."
"...?"
"Never mind, please continue."
"Alright."
I then explained in detail about going down to Noark, spending six months there, and my efforts to save Amelia's sister.
Ah, of course, I left out anything related to evil spirits.
And…
"I was in Noark when I returned. It was a month before the present. I met Amelia and Erwen, and Erwen believed me."
"And the reason you didn't reveal your identity was because you found the royal family's announcement suspicious… right?"
"Yes. I don't know if you'll believe me, though."
That was the end of my story.
Then what would Raven's judgment be?
I watched her with a mixture of anticipation and worry, and she said firmly,
"That's a ridiculous story, like something a child would believe."
It was a somewhat expected reaction.
She was a mage, not an ordinary person. She was knowledgeable, so it was only natural for her to find my story unbelievable.
But…
"Do you have any proof?"
…I had prepared for this.
Why do you think I haven't told you about our encounter yet?
This kind of thing works better in a dramatic situation.
"Proof… of course."
"…?"
"You said the name Nibels Enche sounded familiar, right?"
"Yes, but?"
"Of course it would. We met twenty years ago."
"…?"
I explained in detail, watching Raven's confused expression.
Our first meeting at the library.
How I saved her when she was about to get beaten up for electrocuting people.
And how we met every day at the same time and talked about various things.
"That person… was you…?"
Raven's eyes widened in shock.
"It seems like you finally remember who Nibels Enche was."
I was relieved.
She might have forgotten his name, but she still remembered him.
_____________________
Raven didn't say anything for a while.
She just stared at me with confused eyes.
"This is impossible… How can this be…"
"I understand how you feel. But it really happened. You must also remember our conversations."
"Vaguely. Just that there was someone like that… I was really busy after entering the Magic Tower. And then 'that incident' happened…"
"…What incident?"
Raven hesitated at my question and then snapped at me coldly.
"You don't need to know."
Damn it, I was so nice to her when she was young.
How did she turn out like this?
Ah, but she was even more rude back then.
At least she was using honorifics now…
"Anyway, do you believe me now?"
Raven didn't answer and just pursed her lips.
And…
Tick, tock, tick, tock.
The ticking of the disc's second hand echoed in the silence.
It seemed like less than two minutes were left.
Well, even though it stopped working whenever I spoke, I hadn't been talking non-stop.
Tick, tock.
As the pointless time passed…
"It doesn't matter what I want to believe."
"...?"
"Amelia Rainwales, you answer me. Is his story true?"
Raven, as if belatedly realizing that she could verify it through a third party, shifted her gaze to Amelia.
And…
Tick, tock.
…Amelia's answer was flawless, even though 'Distorted Trust' was active.
"Everything Yandel said is true."
Right, although I had left out a few truths, the experiences themselves were facts.
"The fact that he and I went to the past twenty years ago, and the things we experienced there, they all happened."
It was the final blow.
Even if it was hard to believe, there was no way she could deny it now.
'Okay, I think she's convinced…'
I was feeling relieved when…
"But…"
…Raven spoke in a strained voice.
"That… doesn't prove that you're not an evil spirit…"
"…Huh?"
I couldn't understand.
Why? Wasn't this enough to convince her?
Why was she still so persistent?
'Don't tell me… there's another reason why she suspects me, besides the royal family's announcement…?'
My mouth went dry at that thought.
"Amelia Rainwales."
"...."
"I'll ask you one last question."
"…Ask away."
Amelia nodded, and after a brief pause, Raven spoke.
Her voice was firm and unwavering.
"If there's anything you're unsure about, or if you don't know for sure, please just say you don't know."
"...."
"Is Bjorn Yandel an evil spirit?"
Damn it.
______________________
Amelia didn't answer Raven's question.
Or rather, she couldn't.
After all, how could she?
She couldn't lie in front of that damn Numbered Item.
The only option was silence.
"...."
A heavy silence fell.
And in that silence…
Tick, tock, tick, tock.
The second hand ticked away.
But it didn't last long.
Tick.
The second hand stopped, and the light emanating from the disc faded.
The effect of 'Distorted Trust' had ended.
But…
"...."
"...."
…the suffocating silence continued.
It happened sometimes.
A moment of silence could be a more powerful answer than a thousand words.
"…It doesn't matter what I say now."
Amelia finally muttered, but Raven didn't speak. And she didn't reactivate 'Distorted Trust' and ask the same question again.
She probably didn't have enough charges.
"Raven…"
"Just… don't say anything. Please… not now…"
"...."
Raven looked at me for a long time, standing in front of the cage.
She seemed to be organizing her thoughts.
But could it be that she couldn't?
"…I'm the Vice-Captain of the 3rd Magic Corps, and I have pride and a sense of responsibility for my role. I would never betray or deceive those who trust and follow me…"
Raven started muttering to herself.
"So… I have to report this. It's not just treason against the nation, it's betrayal and deception against those who believe in me…"
It was clear who she was talking to.
Not me, Amelia, or Erwen.
"I, I…"
Herself.
"I can't do that. No, I can't…"
Raven clenched her fists as if trying to organize her tangled thoughts.
And then she turned around and walked towards the stairs.
Thud, thud.
She looked precarious.
"Yandel, this is going to be a big problem if you let her go like that."
Amelia advised me, but I couldn't hear her.
Of course, I knew.
She would come back with reinforcements next time.
But…
Crack.
What could I say to stop her?
My companion, who had tried to believe me, had finally realized the truth and turned away.
Thump.
My heart ached.
And I had a thought.
If I wasn't an evil spirit, if I had been born in Bjorn Yandel's body and met them as an ordinary person…
What would have happened?
'…That's bullshit. We wouldn't have even become companions.'
I dismissed the meaningless thought.
And the guilt I felt towards Raven.
This wasn't the time for that.
'I guess we have no choice but to go with Plan B.'
Now that the situation had become this dire, I had to focus on surviving, regardless of my reputation.
It wasn't just my life that was on the line.
Amelia and Erwen were also my responsibility.
Therefore…
When the troops arrived and the cage opened, I would block their path with [Gigantification] and buy time. And then I would break through the floor and escape into the lake instead of going to the deck.
I could use the water spirit to breathe...
'And then…'
I was finalizing Plan B when...
Thud.
Raven stopped, and then she slowly turned around.
And…
"Why… did you save me…?"
…she asked, looking at me.
As if she couldn't understand that one thing.
"…If you hadn't used [Gigantification], your identity wouldn't have been revealed. Why… did you still save me? Even at the cost of… that injury."
'Right, that's what she was curious about.'
I couldn't blame her for asking, but I felt a pang of bitterness.
The old Raven wouldn't have asked that question.
But it was probably…
'…because I'm an evil spirit.'
Because I'm an evil spirit.
My sincerity was being doubted, and the time we spent together was being denied.
'Lee Baekho must have felt this way too.'
I could feel the emotions he must have felt.
A wall around his heart.
A suspicion that words were meaningless.
But…
"Yes, there's a reason."
…I still spoke.
"…I knew there was something else—"
I might seem like a monster who stole another person's body…
Even if everything seemed like a lie…
Even though I shouldn't be saying this…
"You were in danger, Raven."
"…?"
"So I saved you."
That was the only reason.
-x-X-x-
Arrua Raven turned away.
Until the very moment her gaze left him, that man was looking at her.
With a desolate and pitiful gaze.
"...."
It felt like a sharp object was piercing her heart.
'Why is he looking at me like that… I'm the one who was betrayed…'
Evil spirits deceive the entire world.
That's what she had learned from a young age, and she had witnessed countless examples as she grew up.
That he saved her because she was in danger?
'…That can't… be true…'
She shook her head.
Rejecting the cry of her heart, trying to convince herself that it was the answer.
That the man had simply said what she wanted to believe.
That there must have been another reason.
That she couldn't fall for this.
She took a heavy step forward.
Thud.
With every step she took, memories of their adventures flashed before her eyes.
It started with their first meeting in the Crimson Fortress.
[What the hell is that?! Why is a Vampire in a place like this…?]
[Run if you have time to whine, Dwarf.]
The Vampire who appeared as the guardian in the 1st-floor rift.
The man naturally took the lead and fought valiantly, eventually achieving victory.
But…
'…That holy water he used at the end… he must have known about it because he's an evil spirit.'
It was always like this.
Behind every precious memory, there was a version of herself being deceived and manipulated.
How foolish and gullible she must have seemed to him.
Thud.
Of course, she owed him her life for saving her in the Crimson Fortress.
But Raven made a cold judgment.
'…He didn't sacrifice himself to save us.'
He would have died if he hadn't.
That's why he fought so desperately.
Thud.
The next scene that came to mind was when they were trapped in the 1st-floor Crystal Cave.
The knights and the large clans had used them as pawns and escaped through the dimensional gate.
The day that man became a hero of the city.
[Then what do you want us to do?!]
[I'm telling you one more time—! Everyone stop—!!]
He raised his voice, and the explorers who had been fighting each other joined forces.
And the breakout began.
[Damn it, this is crazy.]
[I… I can't go any further. I'm sorry.]
Seasoned explorers collapsed, their will to fight broken, but he kept going.
[Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!]
He volunteered for the most dangerous task and fought more desperately than anyone.
But Raven judged,
'He did that… because he had to… to survive…'
She took another step.
Thud.
With each step away from the cage, memories of him… to be precise, the big and small favors he had done for her, came to mind.
And each time, Raven thought,
'That wasn't… that difficult.'
'It wasn't something he had to risk his life for.'
'…I've helped him a lot too.'
She was able to dismiss most of them.
But…
[Don't tell me… you came all the way here for me? Through that fire?]
[I was taking a walk.]
The incident in the Imperial City.
[What… What are you doing? Are you trying to carry the whole boat…?]
[Uwaaaaaaaaah!!!]
The time he fought the enemy alone on Parune Island after sending his companions away on the boat.
And just recently…
[Your… your b-back…!]
The time he shielded her from the magic attack with his body.
'But… he did that for himself…?'
Raven soon realized.
That she was in denial.
'That can't… be true…'
The memory was vivid, despite the chaos.
He had been in excruciating pain, his veins bulging, but he held her carefully, protecting her from his thrashing body.
There was no point in deceiving herself anymore.
She had tried to deny it countless times.
[You were in danger, Raven. So I saved you.]
Those words… were undoubtedly true.
______________________
Creak.
The door at the end of the passage closed.
"She's gone."
"Yeah…"
It meant that Raven had left for good, and we had to give up on her returning to release us—
"Evil spirit."
Huh?
I looked to the side, and Erwen was staring at me with a lowered head.
"…You're an evil spirit?"
Right, so that's why she was so quiet.
She must have been shocked.
Well, I could understand why she was upset.
It probably seemed like I didn't tell her because I didn't trust her.
"Erwen, calm down. I'll explain—"
"That woman knew, but I didn't."
"That, that's—"
"I said I could understand everything. I did…!! Why did you lie to me?! Did you not trust me? What do I have to do to make you trust me?!"
Wow, I've never seen her this angry…
I glanced at Amelia for help, but she just shrugged and avoided my gaze.
She was telling me to clean up my own mess.
'Well, at least she doesn't seem to care that I'm an evil spirit…'
I felt a pang of relief and gratitude, as well as a hint of dizziness, at Erwen's murderous aura, having just seen Raven leave because she couldn't accept it.
But that was a separate issue.
'How do I calm her down…?'
It didn't take long to decide.
"What about Raven?! She… she knew, but she didn't tell me! That that woman was dangerous! That she even protected you, revealing her identity—!"
Thud.
"...?"
I grabbed her wrist before she could have a seizure.
And…
"Erwen, you would have done the same if you were in her shoes."
I spoke sincerely.
After all, I would have done the same thing, even if it was Erwen instead of Raven.
But did she find it hard to believe?
"Li, liar… you didn't even tell me… You thought… that woman was more trustworthy than me…?"
"What…? Why would you think that?"
"Because… I, I'm like this… I absorbed those essences… and now I'm treated like a crazy bitch…"
Uh, I didn't know she was thinking that.
It seemed like she was also struggling with her condition.
"Erwen, that's not true."
"Then… why did you hide it from me…?"
Damn it, I told you I would explain.
I sighed inwardly and said,
"Because I wanted to protect you."
For some reason, Amelia answered for me.
"Recycling, how efficient."
What the hell is she talking about?
I ignored her and looked at Erwen. She reacted after a brief pause.
"…Hu, huh?"
Her shoulders trembled.
"M, m, me?"
Okay, her voice was calmer now…
I quickly explained, worried that she might misunderstand again.
"You saw it, didn't you? Raven asking Amelia a question."
Even Auril Gabis's gift couldn't prevent that kind of application.
That's why I wanted to minimize the number of people who knew.
Of course, it was also for my own sake, but it wasn't a purely selfish decision.
"If something bad happens because I'm an evil spirit, I wanted to give you a way out. If you didn't know, you're a victim, but if you helped me knowing the truth, you'd be considered an accomplice."
"...."
"S-so… you're saying you care about me more than Rainwales…? That, that you hid it from me to… protect me…"
"Uh…"
I unconsciously looked at Amelia.
She chuckled and nodded, as if asking what I was so worried about.
She was telling me to take care of it.
Damn, she's reliable.
"Right, that's why I only hid it from you."
"…As, as expected!"
Erwen clenched her fists, seemingly pleased with my confirmation.
And she straightened her shoulders and looked at Amelia with a triumphant smile.
"…This is annoying."
Amelia frowned, but Erwen ignored her and turned her attention back to me.
"Mister, thank you for your concern… but please don't do that again. To leave you behind and escape alone… I wouldn't want that."
Erwen glanced at the empty cage where Raven had left.
"I'm different from that ungrateful woman."
Oh, is that so…?
"So, just trust me! Okay?"
"Okay…"
Amelia then changed the subject.
"But what are we going to do now?"
Ah, right…
We should start preparing.
"First, pack your things."
"Things?"
"We can't leave our equipment behind."
I went to the corner where I had piled up the items I looted from the Lighthouse Keeper and squatted down. I gathered the items, wrapped them in his robe, and tied it into a bundle, then wrapped it around my neck.
The Barbarian Peddler Mode.
I would carry it like this for now and put it in my subspace pocket when I had the chance.
"Tell me what you're going to do now that you're done packing. You must have a plan."
Amelia asked, and I shared Plan B with them.
We waited, not letting our guard down.
And after some time…
Click.
The doorknob at the end of the hallway turned, and the door slowly creaked open.
And…
Thud.
…Raven reappeared.
Alone.
"She's alone."
"I wonder what she's planning… She should have already reported to her superiors by now."
Amelia and Erwen looked wary, gripping their weapons.
Raven flinched and stopped as she approached.
"Why did you come back alone?"
Raven answered quietly at my question.
"To confirm."
It was a conversation taking place about seven meters apart.
The distance felt even greater because of the echoing voices.
But…
"Confirm what?"
Raven didn't answer.
She just resumed walking, closing the distance.
Thud, thud.
Her expression became clearer as she approached.
It was a complex expression, impossible to define with a single emotion.
But one thing was clear.
'…Don't tell me, she didn't report it?'
I asked to confirm, and Raven answered with silence.
Thud, thud.
Her footsteps continued.
It didn't take long for us to be separated by just the bars of the cage.
"...."
"...."
Raven looked at me through the bars, her blue eyes clear, and I met her gaze without saying anything.
After some time…
Clank.
…Raven silently took out a key from her pocket.
What had changed her mind?
Just a while ago, her heart seemed closed off, and nothing I said reached her.
'Could this be… a trap?'
It was a plausible theory.
She must have reported our combat strength.
She might be pretending to help us for now, worried that we might become hostile on the ship, and planning to arrest us in the city.
Therefore…
"…Why are you doing this?"
I asked directly.
"What you're doing now… it's betraying everyone who follows you, just like you said."
I focused on her eyes as I asked.
She wasn't a good actress, so she would definitely show it, whether she was telling the truth or lying…
But Raven just chuckled.
"Why are you laughing…?"
It wasn't a mocking laugh.
It was a bitter, self-deprecating laugh.
Then why?
"It's just… the situation is similar to before."
Huh?
"If I didn't know you were an evil spirit, I wouldn't have asked that question."
"Ah…"
I was speechless.
But Raven seemed to have already made up her mind and returned, as there was no hesitation in her actions.
Swoosh.
The key entered the lock.
The iron bars separating me and Raven gleamed in the torchlight, reflecting our images like a mirror.
I suddenly felt embarrassed.
Honestly, I had given up and was thinking about Plan B.
"…My answer is the same."
"You'll be in danger if you stay here."
"So I decided to help you. For now."
"Therefore…"
Click, the key turned.
And…
"Come out. We need to talk about what to do next."
The door opened.
-x-X-x-
We were finally released from the cage and taken to the officer's cabin.
We needed a secure location for our conversation.
"You can speak comfortably here. This place is designed for secret conversations."
Oh, if you say so.
"First, I want to hear about the situation. What happened with the ambush?"
I wanted to know what had happened to Orculus's attack, the information that had been completely blocked while we were trapped.
"Viscount Lamreond perished. He was killed by Ricardo Liuhen Praha, the Traitor, during the retreat."
My heart sank at the news that our Corps Commander had been assassinated, but the situation itself didn't seem that dire.
The attacks had stopped as soon as the royal forces retreated to the lake and used the dozens of ships as a fortress.
It had been two hours since then.
"The command believes that the goal of the ambush was to assassinate key figures using the chaos."
Assassinate key figures…
"That's definitely a possibility."
The Blood Knight had muttered this when he saw us:
[Golden Mage, Arrua Raven.]
[One of my targets.]
Raven must have also been on the hit list.
I could roughly picture their strategy.
'The Corpse Collector would have spread undead everywhere and used them to track down the targets.'
Indeed, the number of undead had increased significantly after our battle with the Blood Knight, and their reinforcements had also arrived soon after.
"Anyway, it's not that urgent right now. So let's talk about that first. What are your plans, Yandel?"
Hmm, plans…
'I have to think about that now…'
I hadn't expected Auril Gabis's gift to work like this.
It had made things complicated—
"And…"
Raven trailed off and looked at me.
"Just so you know, I only helped you this time because I had to, I can't keep doing this."
…Huh?
So we weren't companions again…?
Raven avoided my gaze as I looked at her with a betrayed expression.
"It's no use looking at me like that. I already took a huge risk by not reporting this incident. And I've done my part."
It was a bitter pill to swallow, but I understood.
She couldn't just leave us to die, but she wasn't willing to risk everything for us.
Helping an evil spirit in this world was a dangerous act.
It was a guaranteed path to ruin if you were caught.
Therefore…
"Raven, I don't blame you, so don't make that expression. I'm actually more grateful that you helped us, even if it was just this once. I'll try my best to keep your name out of it if something goes wrong."
I smiled and patted Raven's shoulder, trying to act like a barbarian.
But then…
Thwack! Thwack! Thwack!
…she didn't react, even though she would have usually screamed and glared at me.
She just bit her lip and looked down.
"Why… are you still being… nice to me…?"
Ugh, is she worried about that again?
She's so sentimental.
I understand.
"You tried to help me, even though you knew everything. That's enough for me."
I felt guilty.
She was a successful mage with a bright future ahead of her, and now she was risking everything because of me.
"...."
"...."
An awkward silence followed, and Raven, as if regaining her composure, awkwardly returned to the original topic.
"Anyway… what are you going to do now?"
"Well, I don't think you should hear that."
"...?"
"You'll be in trouble if you get involved any further after hearing it. You said this was the last time you would help us, right?"
Raven flinched as I drew the line.
But she also had something to say.
"…You said you would keep my name out of it, but we don't know what will happen."
"That's true."
"It's best to avoid getting caught for now. And if that means…"
"…If that means?"
"I'm willing to help. To some extent…"
What the hell, so she was going to help us anyway.
Raven glanced at me with an annoyed expression as I grinned.
"Just tell me. What are you planning to do? You must have a reason for coming to the battlefield in disguise. You knew you would stand out."
Raven asked, and after some contemplation, I answered.
Honestly, like a barbarian.
"I don't have one. Not yet."
"…Huh?"
There's nothing I can do if I don't have one.
I hadn't expected Auril Gabis's gift to work like this.
I came here because I needed money, but I was planning to lay low.
But it seemed like she didn't expect this answer at all.
"…You're saying… you have no plan…?"
Raven stuttered, as if to confirm, and I nodded.
"Yes."
"…Really? I could be discharged from the military and expelled from the Magic Tower if they find out that I helped you."
Wow, expelled from the Magic Tower?
She was taking that much risk?
I was once again grateful for her resolve and changed the subject.
"…I'm hungry after being locked up for so long. Can I have some jerky—"
"Don't change the subject!"
"Th-that's not what I— I'm really hungry—"
"What are you talking about?! You're not even a barbarian!!"
Right, this wouldn't work on her anymore.
"...."
I felt… a strange mix of emotions.
____________________
"Sigh…"
A sigh echoed through the quiet cabin.
I discreetly munched on the jerky I had taken out.
"Are you… eating right now?"
I told you, I'm hungry.
I'm a barbarian, after all.
I need to constantly replenish my nutrients.
"…Do you want some?"
"No, thank you."
"...."
"Damn it, how could anyone not know he's an evil spirit when he acts like this…"
Raven sighed again, but I decided to take it as a compliment, as if she was saying that I was good at hiding my true nature.
Munch, munch.
Phew, I feel better after eating something.
"Raven, did you know something?"
"…Know what?"
"It seemed like you had a reason to suspect me, even before the royal family's announcement."
"Ah, that…"
Raven's expression darkened.
But she must have decided not to hide it.
"The magic tool that recorded the conversation between Hans Krisen and the dwarf from Noark."
Ah, she got it.
But why that recorder?
Raven explained as I looked at her questioningly.
"It had a limited number of plays, maybe because they used a cheap core."
"…So?"
"It could only play 100 times, and there were two plays left, so I started wondering why he had listened to it so many times."
"…I see."
I didn't expect that to be a clue.
It had never even crossed my mind—
"But… there was something even more decisive…"
Huh?
"Misha came to my lab. About 50 days after Yandel died."
"…What did she say?"
"She said that there would be a rumor going around that Yandel was an evil spirit."
Could it be because it was about Misha?
My heart suddenly felt cold.
"And?"
"I asked her if it was really just a rumor, since it seemed fishy, considering the recorder incident."
Misha avoided answering back then.
But ironically, her silence was the most definite answer.
"…Wait, so you're saying she was the one who spread the rumor?"
Erwen, who had been silent until now, interjected, and Raven nodded after glancing at her awkwardly.
"Probably. I don't know what her reasons were, though."
Erwen gritted her teeth at Raven's confirmation.
"Reasons, my ass. Yeah, that woman… I knew she would do something like that…"
"Calm down, Erwen. No one knows what kind of situation Misha is in."
"But…! I would never do that, no matter what the situation! Aren't you angry, mister? She practically betrayed you!"
"That's why… we don't know yet."
Honestly, I was more worried than angry.
After all, I had heard something at the Round Table.
Misha was with Lee Baekho.
And…
[Lee Baekho has the Stone of Resurrection.]
Maybe she had made a deal with him to bring me back to life. Well, it was just my guess, and even if it was true, it didn't change the fact that her choice had harmed me.
Damn it, what the hell is she doing?
"Seriously! Mister… why are you so… foolish?!"
What is she talking about?
"Whatever, Raven… so you don't know why the royal family acknowledged the rumor and made an official announcement?"
"No. But… I heard something from Captain Febrosk."
"What did you hear?"
"He came to me as soon as the announcement was made and said that he was already dead, that no one would ever know the truth. Back then, I thought he was just trying to comfort me…"
"...."
"But looking back, it was a bit strange. It was like he knew the truth. Maybe we can find something if we investigate him."
"…Can you look into it when we return to the city?"
"Yes, I can do that…"
Raven nodded readily, contrary to my worries.
Thankfully.
It seemed like this kind of favor was included in 'to some extent'.
______________________
We then discussed our future plans, and we soon reached a conclusion.
"It's better to hide your identity for now."
Now that I knew how 'Distorted Trust' worked, I had to be even more careful about revealing myself.
"But… why didn't it work on you?"
I just brushed off the question about Auril Gabis's gift.
"Well, I don't know either. Maybe it's because of the Fragment of Records."
It was still a lie, but it couldn't be helped.
I was the only one who wasn't affected by 'Distorted Trust'.
It might seem pointless since they already knew I was an evil spirit, but I didn't know what might happen in the future.
And that was why I hadn't told Amelia yet.
'If I tell her, I'll have to talk about Auril Gabis.'
Auril Gabis was an enemy of the royal family.
What if they found out that I was an evil spirit who had even received a 'gift' from him? It would only make things more difficult.
It would mean I wouldn't even have a chance to negotiate with them as an evil spirit.
"Well… at least it's a good thing. If it's not a one-time occurrence, and it continues to not work, it means you're safer now."
"Right, that's what I'm thinking."
"But… mister, do we even have to reveal your identity? I like you just the way you are…"
Erwen suggested it, but I wasn't going to change my goal of clearing my name.
"I won't be able to get the Spirit Engraving then."
That's why I chose to play as a barbarian.
The Spirit Engraving was essential for maximizing the synergy between my essences.
But Erwen couldn't relate.
"That's… you can just not get it."
She asked sadly,
"Why are you so obsessed with becoming stronger…?"
Everyone looked at me.
"Come to think of it, you've always been like that… You're only interested in climbing the tower…"
Raven's eyes were filled with anxiety, while…
"I heard a rumor. They say you can return to your original world if you reach the top of the labyrinth."
…Amelia seemed to understand.
But I wasn't grateful.
Damn it, that would only lead to misunderstandings.
"Don't tell me… you're doing this because of that…?"
"…You must have a reason to want to go back so badly. Well, it's your home…"
"Mister… can't you just stay here…? I, I'll be better… I won't cause any more trouble…"
What the hell is she talking about?
"Erwen, calm down. You're misunderstanding something."
Return?
It wasn't my priority even before, and it was still the same now.
My number one priority had always been survival.
But now that I had met people, explored the labyrinth, and experienced so much, my priority had changed a bit.
It wasn't just about me surviving anymore.
It was about all of us surviving.
So…
"You're asking why I'm so obsessed with becoming stronger?"
I continued without hesitation,
"So I can protect you."
What I had to protect with this shield wasn't just myself anymore.
-x-X-x-
Lihen Schuitz.
Come to think of it, it wouldn't be so bad to live as him.
With my current specs, I could earn enough money to retire in a few years, even if I hid my true strength.
Of course, I would have to give up on returning…
'But what's so bad about that?'
I had already adapted to this world.
It wasn't as horrible as before, and I often thought it was better than my original life.
There were people I could trust here.
And people who trusted me.
They were connections I didn't have in Lee Hansu's life.
But…
'There's no guarantee that I can hide my identity forever.'
Just how long could I live as Lihen Schuitz?
Well, no matter how careful I was, it wouldn't last forever.
You never know what will happen in life…
'And there are already too many witnesses.'
The story of Lihen Schuitz would eventually spread.
Even if Raven gave a false report, Clown was there.
He would definitely blab about meeting an interesting guy at the Round Table.
And Stag Antlers was also there, so the news would reach the royal family.
'And I even showed them the Gachabon essence.'
It wasn't a well-known essence, but if they researched it, they would eventually learn about it and realize that it increased Bone Density. Then they would figure out that my original height was much taller.
Well, there was a more important reason.
'Auril Gabis.'
I still didn't know what that old man had done to me when he gave me that useless 'gift'.
In other words, it didn't mean I would be safe even if I hid my identity and lived in the shadows.
Therefore, the conclusion was the same as when I told the shaman about my fate.
'I have to get stronger.'
Strong enough to endure whatever came my way.
______________________
Whoosh!
The crystal ball on the desk started vibrating as we were discussing our future plans in the officer's cabin.
"It's the military message stone that's directly connected to the command center. It seems like we'll have to continue our conversation later."
Well, they couldn't focus on us forever during wartime.
Honestly, I was also starting to feel a bit awkward.
"We'll wait outside."
"No, you don't have to. You're technically my escorts. Just be quiet when I'm talking."
"Alright."
Raven then received a call from the command center and spoke in a professional tone, then summoned the other officers.
And…
"Vice-Captain, but who are they…?"
"Don't worry about them. They're my escorts."
"But… we're having a meeting…"
"Do you want me to repeat myself?"
"...."
Wow, she's a natural-born leader.
How can she be so intimidating with that small stature and that cold voice?
"Then let's begin. We just received orders from the command center. They said they can't detect any enemy life signs within the barrier."
We stayed by Raven's side and observed the situation.
It seemed like the enemy troops that had been surrounding the lake had suddenly disappeared. It happened two hours after they retreated to their ships.
"It could be a trap. To lure us out of the ships."
"Well, I think it's more likely that they retreated."
"Everyone be quiet. Speculation is meaningless. The command has decided to send out search parties from each unit."
Raven didn't hesitate and assigned some of her officers to the search parties.
And after some time…
…we received real-time updates from the search parties.
[We can't find anything around the lake.]
The lakeshore, which had been swarming with Clown's undead, was empty.
And…
[The 2nd Search Team found traces of a large-scale magic spell.]
They found traces of magic.
It was a Multiple Teleportation magic circle.
You couldn't enter the barrier from the outside with teleportation magic once [Wall of Thousand Gold] was activated, but it wasn't the other way around.
The command concluded that the enemy had retreated.
But…
"We're on standby again. It might be inconvenient, but we'll wait on the ships until the [Wall of Thousand Gold] collapses and the main force returns. Maintain the current alert level."
"Yes, I'll relay the message to the explorers!"
All troops remained on the ships and didn't go to the lakeshore.
And time passed…
Swaaaaaaaaaa!
…the [Wall of Thousand Gold] collapsed, its time limit reached, and the main force returned.
We were finally able to go to the lake and start cleaning up the battlefield. The main force waited for about a day, confirmed that it was safe, and then left again after leaving behind some additional troops.
"So the main force's goal is to find Noark's base?"
"Yes, to be precise, the entrance. It's most likely connected to a specific location, like the center of the Crystal Cave. If we can find it and occupy it, we might be able to figure out how they did this."
Damn, the main force must be having a hard time.
Searching the 7th floor with a large army.
That's when, as I was thinking that…
…Raven sighed.
"…I'm glad it's over."
It wasn't completely over…
Well, at least no one died.
I also felt like it was finally over after the incident was resolved.
But…
"I hope nothing else happens until we return."
Ugh, be careful what you wish for.
I felt a sense of unease at Raven's words, but what could possibly happen?
We had more troops now—
"…Patrol team?"
I noticed something written on one of the documents on the desk.
"Ah, that? The higher-ups are upset about this incident. They couldn't believe we didn't even notice them infiltrating, even though it was just a small group."
"So they're deploying patrol teams?"
"Yes."
Raven answered curtly and then focused on her work again.
Damn it, doesn't she get bored?
I felt restless.
"Mister, are you bored?"
"A bit?"
"Then let's go for a walk."
"Who will protect Raven?"
"What, do you think there's a problem? She'll be here anyway."
Amelia was offended by Erwen's words.
"…Who said I'm staying?"
"You're so sensitive. You can rest when we get back."
Ugh, these two are going to fight again.
"Both of you, stop it. I'm not going for a walk."
I mediated and then sat there, spacing out.
But I couldn't just sit here doing nothing.
'By the way, a patrol team…'
It was a bit impulsive, but it seemed better than staying here.
Patrol teams would be going outside.
And they would encounter monsters, so I could naturally gain experience points.
'Maybe I can even reach level 7 this time.'
I didn't hesitate.
"Raven, how do I join a patrol team?"
"…You can't."
"Huh? Why?"
"They're already full. And besides, you can't change your assigned mission. Otherwise, everyone would try to get the easy tasks. It's a fairness issue."
Oh, I see.
I nodded and asked again.
"But there must be another way."
"…You can change your mission with the permission of your unit commander."
What the hell, she was just teasing me.
How mean.
"You're the commander. Just change it—"
"That's why I said you can't. Because I won't let you."
"…Huh?"
"I'm saying I won't let you. Who knows what kind of trouble you'll cause while I'm gone?"
Raven drew a line coldly, not even looking at me.
Well, it wasn't a big deal.
I wasn't the type to give up.
"Haha! That's the problem?"
Raven tilted her head as I chuckled, as if it was nothing.
"…?"
What's with that look?
This is why bookworms are so useless.
Their brains are too stiff.
"You're saying the problem is that you're not there?"
"…?"
"Then just come with me!"
Raven narrowed her eyes and scanned me from head to toe as I presented my solution.
And…
"Just out of curiosity, are there barbarians or similar races in your world?"
Ah, uh, hmm…
"...."
I was caught off guard by her unexpected question.
_____________________
As a result, I was able to join a patrol team.
Raven was a rationalist.
"Do it for me!"
"...."
"Do it for me! I promise I won't cause any trouble!"
"...."
"Do it for me!"
I activated the Barbarian Parrot Mode.
I had used this mode effectively in the Crystal Cave.
I kept repeating the same phrase, and Raven, who had been ignoring me at first, eventually had to react.
"Damn it, you're so persistent!"
"Then do it for me!"
"…I told you no! And I didn't even answer for over four hours! You should know when to stop!"
"I don't know, so do it for me!!"
"Sigh…"
A sigh meant resignation.
I kept pushing, and Raven finally gave in.
She judged that it was better to endure a few days of annoyance than to deal with my constant nagging.
Ah, but it wasn't just because she gave in to my stubbornness.
"Ah, seriously! Why are you doing this?! You can just stay here for a few days!"
"…Because there are monsters outside."
"…?"
"Didn't I tell you? I have to get stronger."
"Ugh… what am I supposed to do…?"
I got the OK sign.
Ah, of course, it wasn't on the condition that she came with me.
I wanted her to, but she said the command center wouldn't allow it.
"I'm the only mage here who can use [Wall of Thousand Gold]. I have to stay here just in case."
Right, she was a valuable asset.
"Then I'll leave Emily or Erwen behind."
"You don't have to do that. I was fine even when he… no, Schuitz, wasn't here."
Hmm, I'm still worried…
"I'm really fine, so just go and don't cause any trouble. Especially don't use [Gigantification]. And don't neglect your patrol duties just because you're hunting monsters. And also…"
I listened to her instructions, like an elementary school student going on a field trip, and then Raven finally contacted her superiors and changed my assignment.
And I was able to leave the tent.
There was a patrol team that was just leaving.
"You're the new member. It's an honor to meet you, Tersia."
The squad leader greeted us and then checked our specs.
"The Blood Spirit Marquis is an archer and a spirit user, so you'll be in the center… Are you two melee?"
"That's right."
The squad leader then asked for more specific information about our roles, and Amelia, who was an agility-based damage dealer, was assigned to the left flank.
And I…
"Judging by your heavy armor and shield, you must be a tank—"
Hey, where's he going to hit me with this small body?
I quickly cut him off before I was labeled as a tank.
"I'm a smasher."
"…Huh? Then what about your shield…?"
"It's for show."
I put my shield away and grabbed Kraul's Demon Crusher with both hands.
"I'll be on the right flank."
I wouldn't be able to use [Gigantification] anyway.
It wouldn't hurt to play as a melee attacker for once.
-x-X-x-
'Ghostly Canyon', the entrance to the 7th floor of the labyrinth, the Dark Continent.
Once you passed through this canyon, you would reach the lake where the royal forces were currently stationed. And from there, there were three different paths.
The first was the River of Souls, which flowed into the lake.
It was the fastest route to the Dragon's Mountain Range, the heart of the Dark Continent…
'That's where Bellarios appears.'
…and the place where I could obtain the essence that would be responsible for my Magic Resistance in the late game.
Well, I wouldn't be going there this time since I was on patrol duty.
Anyway.
The second path was a vast jungle east of the River of Souls, called the Great Forest.
It was so large that it was further divided into several sub-fields, but that was its official name.
And…
The third path was the Pantelion Ruins, located west of the River of Souls.
It was the destination of the 4th Patrol Team, which I was currently a member of.
"Forward march!"
The patrol team reorganized its formation at the entrance of the ruins, which were practically abandoned, and entered the field.
Of course, the purpose of the patrol team was active defense, so we wouldn't be going deep into the ruins.
But…
"Front line, forward!"
"Shield wall!"
…this place was teeming with monsters.
[Grrrr…!]
Starting with modified beasts with metallic bodies, like golems…
Kaboom! Kaboom!
…giant magic engineering golems…
Whiiiiiish!
…and mechanical flying monsters that zipped around like drones.
The monsters that had been slumbering in the ruins emerged, sensing the intruders.
But they couldn't reach us.
Kwaaang!
The monsters were blocked by a wall of humans.
It was a strange sight.
I never thought I would be looking at someone's back from this angle.
'So this is what they usually see.'
I was lost in thought for a moment, and then I smashed the monsters that were trying to escape to the sides with my hammer as soon as the order to attack was given.
「Character has cast [Swing].」
「Gigawolf defeated. EXP +4」
The monsters at the entrance of the Pantelion Ruins weren't that high-level, even on the 7th floor, so none of them could withstand a single blow.
The impact felt different since they were mechanically modified.
Clank, crack, thud!
'This is so easy, I just have to swing my hammer.'
"Front line, step aside!"
The commander of the patrol team shouted, and the tanks moved in unison, opening a path in the center.
The monsters rushed through the gap…
"Liona Er Efpura!"
…but a joint magic spell had already been completed in the rear.
Whoosh!
A beam of light shot forward from the center of the formation, piercing through fifteen large monsters and breaking their formation. We were then able to quickly clean up the remaining monsters.
'…Hunting is definitely easier in a raid group. And the tanks are much safer with a priest.'
Although their average level was low, there were over a hundred monsters, but it took less than ten minutes to clear them all.
Well, we had over thirty people on our side.
Even if we killed a hundred monsters, the individual reward wouldn't be that significant.
"No essences dropped, so gather the magic stones and let's move on!"
The patrol team continued to… well, patrol, following the predetermined route.
And…
'Wow, I'll get over 100 experience points today.'
I had already killed over 20 new types of monsters during this patrol.
Although their levels were low, there were many unique species that only appeared in this field.
"Good work, everyone."
After about ten hours of patrol, we handed over the reins to the next shift and returned to the base.
And we each received a token from the administrative staff.
It was a token that proved our share of the loot from today's patrol.
We could submit it to the Achievement Office in the city and receive our payment…
"Hey, buddy."
I turned around as someone called out to me.
I couldn't help but tilt my head.
"…Who are you?"
I didn't remember having a friend like him, and besides…
"What's with that 'I've never seen you before' look? We were right next to each other during the battle."
Uh, were we?
Now that I think about it, maybe we were…
It's best to brush it off and change the subject in situations like this.
"Ah, so what do you want?"
The man patted my shoulder as if he was my superior.
"You were a beast in that fight."
Hmm, was he trying to be friendly?
I decided to be humble.
"You must have low standards."
"What?"
He frowned.
It wasn't my concern.
I brushed his hand off my shoulder.
Thud.
It had been bothering me.
If he wanted to be friends, he should at least look me in the eye.
"So what do you want?"
The man also wiped the fake smile off his face.
And…
"I just wanted to give you some advice."
…he said something unexpected.
"…Advice?"
"It seems like you just blindly focused on strength. You'll be in danger someday if you keep absorbing essences like that."
He then drew a dagger and cut his arm.
"See? It doesn't cut easily, even if I use all my strength. An explorer shouldn't just focus on strength, you need balance, like me—"
"What the hell, you're just an idiot."
"…?"
"Ah, sorry. I was thinking out loud."
He glared at me, offended, even though I apologized.
Damn it, he looks like he would die if I flicked him.
How dare he brag about his measly Physical Resistance in front of me?
"By the way, what's your name?"
But I asked for his name, just in case.
"Melivor Eltein."
What, it's not even Hans?
"I see. See you around."
"Mister, what are you doing?"
"My companions are here."
I left, trying to forget his name.
___________________
So, his name was Melivor…
'What was it again?'
I couldn't remember, but unfortunately, I never saw him again.
I continued to be assigned to patrol teams, but I was always in a different one…
The reason was simple.
Each patrol team was assigned to a specific area.
Well, it was a rational decision from the command center's perspective.
If a patrol team was always in the same area, they would become familiar with the terrain and their teamwork would improve.
It wouldn't have been possible to switch teams so often…
…unless you had connections in the military's upper echelon.
[Raven, I heard the 11th Patrol Team is going on a deep patrol this time…]
[Okay, I'll write you a recommendation letter.]
[Thank you.]
Thanks to Raven's help, I was able to visit the River of Souls and the Great Forest, as well as the Pantelion Ruins.
Of course, we only patrolled the outskirts of each area, so there were still many monsters I hadn't encountered.
But I gained experience points every time I switched teams.
And time flew by, and now…
「Character level has increased.」
「Soul Power +30.」
「Maximum number of absorbable essences increased by +1.」
…I finally reached level 7, and I had another essence slot.
I could add another synergy to my current build.
'The money problem is practically solved, so I don't have to participate in the war anymore. I should farm essences next time.'
Ah, but I would need a boat first, right?
That's when, as I was lost in thought…
…I realized that my surroundings were quiet.
"Raven."
"What?"
"Where did Erwen and Emily go?"
"That woman said she was going to take a nap in the tent, and Erwen… well, she followed her soon after."
"Hmm, I see."
"So that's all you wanted to ask?"
Raven was already reading another document, not even looking at me.
Geez, at least give me time to answer.
'Come to think of it… it's just the two of us.'
I stepped back, trying not to disturb her work, and I felt a strange sense of unfamiliarity.
Whenever I met Raven after our reunion, Amelia or Erwen was always with us.
'Maybe I should ask her about something I've been curious about.'
"Raven."
"What is it now?"
"What was that… 'incident' you mentioned before?"
Raven's hand, which was writing something, flinched as I cautiously asked.
And she glanced at me.
"What incident?"
Don't play dumb.
"You said it before, in front of the cage. That something happened after you entered the Magic Tower…"
"…I don't want to talk about it. It's not important."
"…Is that so? Then I can't force you."
I gave up on my curiosity, even though I was usually shameless, especially since it seemed like a sensitive topic.
And…
"Then how's your mother doing? Is she well?"
…I decided to just chat with her.
It was also a slightly sensitive topic, but I was involved this time.
"Did you… know something…?"
"Huh?"
I tilted my head at her strange reaction, and Raven quickly tried to change the subject.
"It's nothing. But… why are you suddenly asking about my mother? I don't think you should be curious about that."
"Why not? I'm the one who persuaded your mother to send you to the Magic Tower."
Raven flinched at my casual remark.
"...Wh, what did you say?"
"I don't know if you remember, but you came to the library after your mom beat you up. You were crying and asked me to help you—"
"That… never happened!!"
"Huh? You said you barely remembered what happened back then?"
"Even so, I… I believe it never happened."
"Oh, really?"
"Don't tease me, and just tell me. Is that true? You persuaded my mother…?"
"Yes."
I then told her what had happened in the past.
I had glossed over it back then because we didn't have time.
I wanted to have this kind of conversation.
To be precise, I wanted to know how much of a positive impact I had on causality.
After all, I might have to use the 'Fragment of Records' again someday.
'Ah, but I shouldn't tell her about that part.'
But I omitted part of my conversation with her mother.
There was a simple reason.
[She'll abandon me.]
[She'll look down on me after becoming successful. And then she'll leave for her own world. Just like he did… because she's his blood…]
[Isn't this wrong? Why is her life so easy? She's my daughter, but I've never met anyone who helped me like that. But… but why is she…]
How could I tell her that?
Especially not in front of her.
"Let's forget about what happened at the library. Just tell me what you talked about with your mother that day."
"Nothing special. I just persuaded her to send you to the Magic Tower and said I would pay for everything, and she refused."
"Refused…?"
"Ah, to be precise, she refused the money. She said the Magic Tower had already sent someone a few days ago. You caught their eye because you were using magic on everyone at such a young age."
"I see… so that's why she suddenly changed her mind…"
"Ahem, it's a bit awkward to say this myself, but in a way, I'm your benefactor…"
Raven ignored my subtle attempt to appeal to her.
"…."
How rude.
"So… how's your mother doing? Are you two getting along now?"
Raven answered coldly as I changed the subject.
"I wish we could."
"…Huh?"
"She's dead."
"...."
"Ah, uh… I, I see. I'm sorry. I didn't know she was sick or anything…"
I was so flustered that I stuttered, desperately trying to salvage the situation, but it was too late.
"It wasn't a health issue. It wasn't an accident either. And she didn't die of old age."
"…Then?"
"She hanged herself."
"...."
"It was about a month after I entered the Magic Tower. I went home for a week because of an assignment my master gave me…"
Raven spoke in a flat voice, as if reading from an old diary.
"There was a rotten smell coming from her bedroom. That was the last time I saw her."
"...."
"Don't make that expression. It's all in the past. It's not like it's a big deal for someone to die."
Raven tried to comfort me, but I was speechless.
Her words only made me remember more vividly…
[Isn't it strange? I've spent my entire life working for just this one room in this shithole.]
…our last conversation.
And after our conversation ended…
[What was the point of my life?]
…the way she staggered towards the back alley, her spirit broken.
-x-X-x-
Raven spoke to break the awkward silence.
"Why are you making that face? It's not your fault."
Although she didn't know the whole story, she wasn't wrong.
Of course, it was a bit ambiguous to say it was entirely my fault.
But I couldn't shake the feeling that I was the one who had pushed her over the edge.
If I hadn't gone to see her…
Maybe she wouldn't have made that choice.
No, wait…
Dwarkey.
Yandel Jarku, Bjorn's biological father.
Thinking about them, I had to accept the possibility.
That my presence had changed the future.
"Sigh… I shouldn't have said anything."
Raven spoke, as if regretting it.
It was as if I had reopened an old wound.
But…
"...."
…I also had a thought.
Was it okay for me to reopen her wounds?
Just because I didn't want to avoid responsibility?
As I was struggling to speak…
"What's with the mood? Did we interrupt something?"
"It's nothing. What are you talking about? …But mister, what were you two… doing…?"
I turned my head towards the entrance, and Amelia and Erwen were entering the tent.
"...."
I looked back at Raven, and she was looking at her documents again.
Well, it wasn't a conversation to be had in this atmosphere.
"...."
I couldn't say anything that day.
____________________
「The labyrinth is closed.」
「Character is being transferred to Lafdonia.」
____________________
Day 75 of the expedition.
It was time to return to the city as the 7th floor closed.
'Wow, it feels like it's been a while.'
The city felt unfamiliar after spending over two months in the labyrinth.
I could understand why some of the high-ranking clans took a month or two off after an expedition.
"Are you going straight home?"
"For now. Let's rest. And then eat something delicious."
"Okay!"
We left the exchange and headed straight for the mansion after exchanging our magic stones.
Ah, for reference, we didn't have many magic stones.
All the loot we obtained after arriving on the 6th floor had been exchanged for vouchers with the royal family's seal.
They would be exchanged for money at the Achievement Office, but it would probably be crowded for a few days, so we decided to wait.
"Phew, finally home."
The detached house with a small garden and boarded-up windows.
I never thought I would feel this happy to be back.
Anyway, we would eat the food we bought on the way back after washing up…
"So who's going to wash up first?"
Amelia spoke to me as we were deciding the order.
"Schuitz, you can use the bathroom on the second floor."
"Huh? Thanks, but is it okay for me to go first?"
"The bathroom on the first floor is bigger. We can use it together."
I didn't understand.
"…What? Together?"
I couldn't imagine them doing that.
"When… did you two get so close?"
I asked, unable to hide my surprise, and Erwen waved her hands frantically.
"Cl, close?! We're not! Say something! Why would I shower with her?!"
"It's more efficient. Well, if you really don't want to, I'll go first."
"What? Why are you deciding that—"
"Then I'll go first."
"…Wait, stop!"
Amelia headed towards the bathroom, and Erwen followed her, shouting.
'These two are never quiet.'
I dismissed them and went to the bathroom on the second floor.
I was a bit curious about whether they would wash up separately or together…
But what did it matter?
They wouldn't draw their weapons and fight, at least.
"Ah, that feels good."
The hot water washed away the fatigue that had accumulated in my body.
It finally felt like the expedition was over.
'Well… it ended smoothly, considering everything that happened.'
There hadn't been any major incidents after the first attack.
I had continued to join patrol teams and gain experience points until I reached level 7, and the peace had continued.
But there was something going on with the main force. They had requested reinforcements from us and taken some of our troops.
Of course, it didn't have much to do with me.
Raven had to stay in the rear because of her strategic role, and so did we, who were part of her unit.
'I should sell the equipment first, exchange the vouchers for money, and then split the earnings…'
I felt a strange sense of accomplishment as I organized my thoughts.
"Level 7, huh…"
I could proudly say that I had reached the mid-to-late game.
And considering the number of 3rd-grade essences I had, it was practically the early stages of the late game.
It felt like just yesterday when I was crawling around after stepping on a goblin trap.
'…I've gotten stronger.'
I could feel my own growth.
After all, why do you think I was able to call this expedition 'smooth'?
I had fought four members of Orculus.
The Corpse Collector, the Wailing Witch, the Lighthouse Keeper, and the Blood Knight.
If it were the old me, someone would have died, and I would have had to risk my life.
But even so…
'I have to get stronger.'
I felt a sense of inadequacy rather than satisfaction.
I was still far…
…from being able to guarantee my and my companions' safety against monsters like the royal family, Auril Gabis, and Lee Baekho.
'I have to reach level 9 somehow. And I have to take care of the Spirit Engraving issue as soon as possible…'
That's when, as my thoughts reached that point…
"Mister, are you almost done? I'm going to reheat the food…"
"Ah, I'll be out soon."
I realized I had been in the bathroom for much longer than I thought and quickly finished washing up. I ate the reheated food with the others, and then Amelia spoke.
"Schuitz, what are you going to do about the guild?"
"Guild?"
"Raven said we should take care of your guild records if we want to avoid the royal family's attention."
"Ah…"
5th-grade explorer, Lihen Schuitz.
His last labyrinth expedition was about five years ago.
But if the royal family accessed the guild's records, my identity would be revealed.
His former team, the essences he had absorbed, and other information would all be there.
"Even if you just ask your former companions a few questions, they'll notice something's off. And if they see you in person, it's game over."
I had to either erase Lihen Schuitz's records or modify them so that they couldn't be traced back to me.
And only an insider could do that.
"Is there anyone who can help?"
"Well, I've never been close to the guild."
But one person came to mind.
Julian Urbanes.
The guild master's daughter, whom I had taken hostage to clear my name.
'Hmm, is she really a 'daughter'?'
She was a strange woman.
She wanted her father to be ruined because she didn't want to live as a puppet.
I wondered how she was doing now.
Would she help me if I asked her?
_____________________
The next day,
Amelia went out to sell the Lighthouse Keeper's equipment, and Erwen left for the sanctuary.
And…
"Then I'll be going too."
…I also got dressed and left the house.
We had concluded that it would be fine.
Even Raven, my former companion, didn't recognize me.
It was practically impossible for anyone to connect this face to Bjorn Yandel. And it would be strange for me to just stay cooped up at home.
'I should have met that Dragonkin kid with this face.'
Even that Dragonkin priestess, who had called me ugly at our first meeting, wouldn't be able to lie after seeing this face.
Damn it, what's so good about this weak-looking face?
'Anyway, I should go there first…'
It was my first real outing since returning to this time period. I walked through the city, enjoying the sights, just like when I went to the past, and soon arrived at my destination.
[Carsia Lomne.]
A blacksmith with a fancy name in the ancient language, unfitting for its profession.
It meant 'Magic Flame', if I remember correctly.
It was the blacksmith Hikurod Murad, the dwarf, had built after leaving Team Misfits.
'…So the rumors about him doing well were true.'
I had heard about it from Raven, but I didn't expect it to be this successful.
He had even expanded his business, taking over the neighboring buildings.
'Should I go in?'
I entered the blacksmith out of curiosity.
And as I was looking at the displayed equipment…
"Hahaha! The items on display are just samples for custom orders. Tell me if you're looking for something else!"
I turned around at the familiar voice, and a familiar face was there.
"Hikurod Murad."
"Oh, you know my name? Hahaha! It seems like I've become famous…"
The dwarf laughed heartily and then looked at me, his smile fading.
"…Huh?"
"What's wrong?"
"Ah, nothing. Just a strange feeling. You're a tall and handsome young man."
I thought he might have recognized me, but it seemed like that wasn't the case.
Okay, with this face, I could probably walk around freely without anyone recognizing me.
'But… why am I disappointed?'
I dismissed the strange emotion and talked to him.
"Is it okay for the owner to be out here?"
"Haha, I don't really work in the forge anymore."
"Why?"
"Why would I when I have blacksmiths who can do it for me? They're much better than me."
"…I see."
It seemed like he had given up on his dream of being a blacksmith and had become a businessman.
No wonder he was doing so well.
'Damn, he's even wearing a Mithril necklace.'
Honestly, I was shocked.
He was completely different from the dwarf I knew.
Well, the final blow was his last words.
"Ugh, damn it… I wasted my time explaining everything because you looked rich."
He immediately wiped the smile off his face and kicked me out as soon as I said I was just browsing.
"Get out if you're not buying anything! You're blocking the other customers!"
I was dumbfounded as I was pushed out.
What the hell happened to him? He was so obsessed with money.
'…Well, at least he's doing well.'
I left the blacksmith and headed towards a training center. It was the place where Rotmiller, that old man, taught explorers navigation skills.
'It's closed. I wanted to at least see his face.'
It wasn't open today.
'Where should I go now?'
I thought about going back home, but I didn't have anything to do there, so I chose a new destination.
[Central Library of Ravigion.]
There was no better place to go when you had nothing to do.
I entered the library, and I saw the familiar desk.
But…
'What the…'
The people sitting at the desk were all different.
There was supposed to be only one sleepy librarian at that large desk.
"Welcome. We're happy to have you here."
There were over twenty staff members working at the desk.
It was like the library twenty years ago.
"Um… where's the librarian who used to work here?"
"…Who are you talking about?"
"Ragna Ritanyel Peprok."
"...?"
The librarian tilted her head, confused, and then went to the desk and asked the other librarians before returning.
"My seniors said she retired before the library renovation."
"…When did she retire?"
"Right before the renovation, so about two years ago."
Two years ago…
Well, she didn't have the specs to be a librarian forever.
She was practically doing the work of dozens of people with her vast mana pool.
"Is there anything else I can help you with?"
"No, thank you. Just cast the detection spell, and I'll take care of the rest."
"The book detection spell fee is 3,000 stones!"
Damn it, they even charge a fee now?
I felt the changes that had occurred during my absence, but I paid the fee and found a few books, then sat down at a table.
After some time…
Snore!
Who the hell is snoring?
Snore!
I couldn't take it anymore and looked up.
"Um… sir, we received a complaint… can you please… wake up…?"
A librarian was shaking a large barbarian who was snoring, practically begging him to wake up.
Snore!
That guy is embarrassing all barbarians…
'Huh?'
The barbarian sat up, wiping his drool, and I couldn't help but flinch.
"Ah, sorry! I must have dozed off!"
Blonde hair tied into a messy braid.
Golden eyes that seemed to be filled with stubbornness.
"Ah, y-yes… then please leave the library…"
I couldn't believe I would meet her here.
I almost didn't recognize her because of her large frame, but I was certain after seeing her face.
"Haha! There's no need to kick me out! I apologized! Don't be so harsh."
It was Ainar, Frenelin's second daughter.