After a while, I borrowed Amelia's dagger and cut open the Dragonslayer's stomach.
Slice.
The cut opened up as if it had been sliced with a surgical scalpel.
I then reached inside and pulled out his heart without hesitation.
It was still fresh, thanks to the freezing temperatures.
"Dragon hearts are different from human hearts."
It looked like a tropical fruit with a bumpy surface.
There were also strange chain-like marks on it.
I stared at it curiously, and Raviyen, who had been watching me, spoke up.
"The chain marks are probably from Penny's curse."
Oh, really?
Then the bumpy surface is normal?
"Gowland, cast Preservation and Distortion on it."
I then placed the heart in a box and stored it in my subspace pocket after casting Distortion magic on it. Raviyen seemed to want to keep it herself, but...
"I'll hold onto this for now."
"...Why?"
"It's a bargaining chip."
"You're not going to give it to them right away?"
"No. I'll wait until things calm down and then meet with the current Ancient Dragon. We'll make a deal and then I'll give it back. It'll be troublesome if word gets out about this heart." ᚱᴀΝÖＢÊṦ
I was a bit worried, but Raviyen surprisingly agreed.
"...You're right. It's better if you give it back. We'll get a better deal that way. I feel bad for Penny, but she won't have to wait long..."
"Thank you for understanding."
Okay, that settles that.
After securing the heart, we held a funeral.
There was no priest left to officiate, but we cremated the fallen explorers and held a silent memorial, just like we had done for Naria.
And then...
Clatter.
We collected their bones in a box.
After the funeral, we started looting the bodies.
The Rose Knights and Noark's elite.
And the equipment of our fallen comrades...
"We'll take all the equipment from our team. We can't use our subspace pockets, so stuff everything into your backpacks."
We collected all the equipment from our fallen teammates.
"We don't have enough space, so just take the valuable stuff from Noark."
We decided to be selective with the loot from Noark.
We had already killed a lot of them before reaching the Eye of the Glacier, and their equipment was stored in our subspace pockets. No one would be able to tell the difference.
But the Rose Knights' equipment was different.
"Gather the Rose Knights' stuff separately. We have to be careful with those."
Their equipment and consumables were mostly military supplies.
So selling them or using them was restricted.
If those items appeared on the market, the royal family would find out.
'No, they'll probably search our pockets as soon as we get back, as part of the loot distribution process.'
It wasn't a 100% guarantee, but there was a risk.
"Well, at least we have enough money for now..."
Kaislan, the soldier, seemed satisfied with the increased budget.
He was happy that we had enough money to operate as a clan.
He would occasionally shed a tear, remembering his fallen comrades, but...
It was a bit funny.
He was like a person with bipolar disorder.
"Yandel, don't worry too much. We just have to fulfill their wishes."
"What are you talking about? I just have a cold."
Phew, I need to focus on something else...
I walked towards the pile of Rose Knights' equipment and started searching through it.
I wanted to see if there was anything we could use.
'Wow, their daggers are all made of Mithril. And their leather armor is all Ogre leather...'
It was painful to leave them behind.
Couldn't we hide them and take them with us? We could melt them down or cut them up and make new equipment.
That thought crossed my mind.
But...
"Let's give up on this."
We couldn't afford to take even a 1% risk.
We could make up an excuse for the Dragonslayer's heart, saying we found it while fighting them in the Eye of the Glacier...
But we couldn't do that with the Rose Knights' equipment.
"...Huh?"
I was searching through the bodies when I noticed something strange.
'What are these rings?'
All the Rose Knights had the same ring on their middle finger.
'Did they always wear rings?'
I tried to remember, but I couldn't recall seeing them during the battle.
'...What is this?'
I immediately took the rings from the bodies.
They weren't Numbered Items.
Then were they magic tools?
"Marone, Gowland."
I asked the mages to identify them.
It didn't take long.
"It's a Bonding magic tool. It binds to your soul as soon as you put it on."
"A Bonding magic tool?"
"You know, the Summoning Engraving you use to summon your ship on the 6th floor. That's a typical Bonding magic tool."
"Then... this ring is..."
"Yes. It's a subspace ring. And it's much more advanced than anything we have."
That explained why none of them had subspace rings or bracelets.
"Normally, Bonding magic tools leave a mark on your body, like a tattoo, but this one doesn't. It also has a detection nullification circuit."
"That means the royal family doesn't know about this subspace pocket?"
"Yes, probably."
We had hit the jackpot.
______________________
I didn't know what was inside this subspace pocket.
But one thing was certain.
It was a jackpot, even if it was empty.
With this ring, we could take all the Rose Knights' equipment with us.
"Take them all!"
We gathered all the equipment and stuffed it into our backpacks.
We could transfer it to our subspace pockets later, once we were back in the city.
'The problem is that we only have seven subspace pockets...'
We currently had ten members.
Three of us wouldn't be able to have one.
But surprisingly, the distribution process was peaceful.
"...This is too valuable for someone like me who couldn't even contribute to the battle."
James Kala, who had been blinded by the penalty, was the first to decline.
"I'll also pass. I already have a Bonding subspace pocket."
"Me too."
Akuraba and Raviyen, who already had similar items, also gave up their claims.
And so the owners were decided.
「Character has equipped the Liar's Rose Ring.」
「The Liar's Rose Ring has been bound to the character.」
The ring glowed briefly and then disappeared, binding to the wearer's soul.
"How do I open it?"
"It's brainwave recognition. Just think about opening it, and it'll open."
Wow, is this the royal family's latest technology?
It's going to be incredibly useful.
"Alright, then that settles it."
We finished collecting the loot and cremating the bodies.
And then...
「The frozen wall melts away.」
As soon as the trap room's effect ended, we left the battlefield.
We had found some food rations in the Rose Knights' backpacks, but it wasn't enough for ten people.
「Bersil Gowland casts the 6th-grade space-time magic [Greater Distortion].」
「Liris Marone casts the 6th-grade space-time magic [Greater Distortion].」
We hunted monsters and used Distortion magic to preserve their meat.
And then we headed back to the Eye of the Glacier.
But...
"It's a shame. If we could take all this with us, we could buy a mansion in the Imperial City."
We had to give up on the loot that was buried deep within the Eye of the Glacier.
The Elder Lich was blocking the entrance.
There were countless valuable items buried there... but they would disappear when the labyrinth closed.
"Let's rest here for today."
We set up camp and rested.
We couldn't push ourselves any further.
"Kaislan, are you alright?"
"I'm fine, don't worry. We'll be able to reach the top."
We had no priest and only four potions left.
We had all survived, but some of us were severely injured.
Erwen had depleted her MP and natural energy, rendering her skills useless.
And there weren't many who could fight properly.
"But... after all that... I don't feel tired at all..."
"I agree. It's strange."
"I thought I had experienced everything life had to offer, but I guess I was wrong."
We chatted idly during the break, but our main topic was the future.
"Are you going to create the clan right away?"
"Probably. But it'll take some time for everyone to join."
"That's true. Kaislan is from the military, so it'll be difficult for him to leave."
"Even if he could, it would be suspicious if we all suddenly joined forces. We need to wait. They'll eventually kick us out, and then we can form our own clan."
"...I have some ideas for the clan emblem."
"Wow, Marone, you're talented."
We discussed the future of our clan.
And the past as well.
We had to get our stories straight.
We discussed the timeline, and if anything felt off or suspicious, we would brainstorm together and come up with a plausible explanation.
"Yandel, there's something I'm worried about."
"What is it?"
"Even if we get our stories straight, will the royal family really believe us?"
"...?"
"We've all confirmed that we're immune to verification magic, but there are other ways to find out the truth."
I had thought about that too.
What if they didn't believe us?
What if they decided to investigate further?
"As I said before, they won't go that far. They don't want to create a bigger problem."
"...That's true, usually. But what if they decide to take the risk?"
"Even if they do, it doesn't matter. Our plan wasn't to deceive them perfectly."
Plan A was the best option, but Plan B wasn't a complete failure.
"What do you mean?"
"The fact that we're all keeping silent and sticking to our story is a message in itself. It's like a plea from the weak."
The Prime Minister, Duke Keallunus, the coalition of minor nobles, the Alminus Trading Company, and the Explorer's Guild.
They were all involved in this.
They wouldn't investigate further, even if they suspected us.
They wouldn't risk making a bigger problem.
They would just turn a blind eye, just like they did when they gave me my noble title without any verification.
That's how the royal family operates.
"So we have to use that time to become stronger. We have to make them think that it's better to ignore us than to confront us."
"But won't that make us even more dangerous? The stronger we become, the more they'll fear us."
"No, I don't think so."
"Why not?"
"Because no matter how strong we become, we're still just a small flame compared to the royal family."
The royal family was a giant.
No one in their right mind would dare challenge them.
"They'll just see us as a nuisance, not a threat. They won't believe that we're actually planning to overthrow them."
We were just a group of explorers who had been abandoned.
Who would believe that we were actually plotting a rebellion?
Sadness and anger are fleeting emotions.
Most people would just be grateful to be alive and make a rational decision.
But...
"But what if...?"
Akuraba, even after accepting my explanation, brought up the worst-case scenario.
"What if they decide to eliminate us? Because they see us as a threat?"
The answer was simple.
What else could we do?
We would have to go with Plan C.
______________________
75th day of the expedition.
To be more precise...
[22:10]
Less than four hours remained until the labyrinth closed.
"What is it?"
Bersil Gowland sat down next to me and asked abruptly.
"Yandel, do you think Naria was an evil spirit?"
"It's highly likely, isn't it?"
"Right... I thought so..."
Bersil mumbled, and I just remained silent. She spoke again after a moment of silence.
"Yandel, how do you feel about Naria?"
There was a hint of caution in her voice.
"I think she was a good comrade. But what are you trying to ask?"
"Let me rephrase that. If she had survived, would you still consider her a comrade?"
I could sense her intention, but I answered honestly.
"Of course."
"...Even if she was an evil spirit?"
"We're already enemies with the royal family. Why would I care about that? Evil spirit or not, it doesn't matter. The important thing is whether I can trust them."
"...I see."
Bersil nodded with a strange expression and then left after a few more words.
Hmm, what was her purpose?
Was she just curious about me?
'Wait a minute... Could it be that Goblin's secret has been exposed? And she's trying to find out what I'll do with him?'
It seemed plausible.
At least until Amelia called for me two hours later.
"Yandel, can we talk for a moment?"
"Did something happen?"
"It's about the task you gave me."
I tilted my head in confusion.
"The task I gave you?"
"You asked me to investigate Sven Parab, didn't you?"
Ah, that.
I had asked her to do that.
I couldn't trust him after his reckless behavior at the Round Table. I wanted to keep an eye on him and control him.
But...
"That was for when we got back to the city... And I didn't even use the word 'investigate'."
I had just asked her to keep an eye on him.
"Then you should be grateful that I misunderstood."
Amelia smirked and shrugged.
It seemed like she had something good.
I suddenly felt a surge of anticipation.
"Did you find something?"
"...You'll see."
Amelia unbuckled her belt.
I was surprised by her sudden action, but then she pulled out a small crystal ball from it.
"What's this?"
"A recording crystal ball."
I know what it is, but... I didn't know she had one hidden in her belt.
'...Should I tease her about being a voyeur?'
I swallowed that thought and activated the crystal ball.
[...Chomp, chomp, chomp.]
The video started with Sven Parab sneaking a piece of jerky from his pocket and eating it.
I felt a wave of betrayal.
"That bastard, he told me he didn't have any jerky left—"
"Be quiet and watch. You'll see soon enough."
"...."
Amelia's stern voice silenced me, and then the video changed.
[Sven Parab.]
A woman approached him from behind and called his name.
[Eek!]
He was startled, caught in the act of eating his secret stash.
[Can I talk to you for a moment?]
The woman was Bersil Gowland. Sven Parab looked around nervously, but didn't answer.
[I'm not going to tell anyone about the jerky, so don't worry. I just want to talk.]
[...Can't we talk later?]
[You don't want to talk to me?]
[No, it's not that, but... I have a bad feeling about this...]
[What are you talking about?]
Bersil tilted her head, confused, but I was impressed.
'Could he have sensed that Amelia was watching him?'
It was a mystery, but the video continued.
[Anyway, I'll get straight to the point.]
[Yes? Oh, yes... Please speak. I'm listening.]
[I know you're an evil spirit.]
One sentence.
"...What?"
[...What?]
Both me and Sven Parab in the video were dumbfounded.
And then...
[...Cough! Cough, cough!]
[Shh! Be quiet. Someone might hear us.]
[B-b-but what are you talking about?! I'm an e-e-evil spirit?!]
The bombshell didn't stop there.
[Don't try to run away. I'm an evil spirit too.]
What? She's coming out here?
[...What? Y-you... you're an evil spirit...?]
Sven Parab was speechless.
Bersil calmly continued.
[I'm telling you this because I'm worried you might say something you shouldn't. You know what I mean?]
[Uh, uh...]
[Don't say a word about this expedition. I'll be watching you. In the community, at the Round Table, everywhere.]
Boom!
There was no sound effect, but both me and Sven Parab in the video could hear it.
[W-wait, the Round Table? How did you even get into that... place?]
[Well, I'm a member there, so of course I know. How else would I have known that you're an evil spirit?]
[Wait a minute... there's a woman there... Q-Queen? No, she wasn't like that...]
Sven Parab was rambling, trying to make sense of the situation, and then he pointed his finger at her.
[W-wait... You... you're... Fox...?!]
That was the last scene of the video.
'Bersil Gowland was Fox...?'
Another unexpected gain from this expedition.
______________________
「The labyrinth is closed.」
「Character is being transferred to Lafdonia.」
______________________
Warm sunlight streamed through the window.
The Marquis put down his pen and picked up his teacup. The tea had steeped perfectly, its aroma filling the air.
He took a sip and checked the time.
'It's almost time.'
Five minutes until noon.
The labyrinth would soon close, and the empty Dimension Plaza would be filled with explorers returning from their expeditions.
It was a familiar scene, but it felt different today.
"I hope they succeeded."
The thirty explorers who had been sent to destroy Noark's Sky Eye.
"Well, even if they failed, it doesn't matter."
He had already prepared two sets of documents.
One for if the mission was successful but the expedition force didn't return.
And the other for if both the mission and the expedition force failed.
There was no document for if they returned alive.
He was a cautious man, but he didn't waste his time on pointless endeavors.
"It feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders."
The Marquis chuckled and put down his teacup.
He picked up his pen and resumed his work.
Ten minutes passed.
Buzz.
The message stone on his desk vibrated.
It was from the checkpoint, which was connected to his mansion.
"What is it?"
He answered the call, and his expression changed instantly.
[...I apologize for interrupting you. A group claiming to be a royal special forces unit has appeared.]
"...A special forces unit?"
[Yes, sir... Do you know anything about this? I apologize. They seem to be important people...]
"I see..."
[Yes, sir. The leader is demanding to speak with you. What should I do?]
"I'll send someone over soon. Hold them there for now. Oh, and how many are there?"
[Ten... exactly ten.]
"I see. Alright."
The Marquis ended the call with a pleasant smile.
And then...
Rip, rip.
He tore up the two documents on his desk and tossed them into the fireplace.
"Ten survivors..."
He didn't know how they had managed to survive.
"This is getting interesting."
Those who were supposed to be dead had returned.
-x-X-x-
The sky was somewhat gloomy.
Even so, sunlight still streamed through.
A warm energy pushed back the chill that had seeped into our very bones.
There was no bone-chilling coldness, nor hunger gnawing at our stomachs.
"Now… it's finally sinking in. We really… made it back alive…"
As always, returning to the city after a difficult expedition brought strange sensations.
We were happy to have survived, yet our hearts felt heavy.
Because of those who couldn't come back with us.
"If only they had endured a little longer…"
If only…
Maybe a few more could have joined us.
"Miss Marone."
Marone stopped muttering to herself as Sven Parab called her name and gritted her teeth.
Returning to the city didn't mean it was over.
It was too early to relax. Things might be even harder here than in the labyrinth.
But…
Clench.
She swallowed her complaints.
It wasn't just because we were currently in the empty mansion where we had gathered for a few days before entering the labyrinth and had to be careful of what we said.
We couldn't afford to complain.
No matter how high and steep the mountains we had to climb were,
We had to leave those who fought to the very end behind.
"Kaislan, are you feeling alright?"
"I couldn't be better. But it seems like I was the last one to return."
Kaislan had been summoned by a priest from the Marquis's family and had just returned to the drawing room, where the other survivors were gathered.
"Why don't we go for a walk? It's a nice day today."
"I wish we could."
"You wish we could?"
"You saw the knights outside the drawing room, right? They're stopping us from leaving."
Marone grumbled at Akuraba's explanation.
"Hah! It's like we're criminals! We risked our lives to complete the mission, and this is how they treat us? Shouldn't we be treated like heroes?!"
"Um, Miss Marone…"
"What? Am I wrong?!"
Sven Parab looked at me nervously, but it wasn't something I had to intervene in.
Their complaints were understandable.
And besides, I had told them to do this.
"Well, we are technically part of the military now. The expedition isn't officially over until we report to our superiors."
"Even so, this is too much. Even in the military, they wouldn't treat us like this."
"Everyone, calm down. We achieved a great feat! We destroyed the Sky Eye! And after the reports are done, we'll be rewarded handsomely!"
"Finally!"
James Kala whistled, his face beaming with anticipation.
The conversation naturally shifted to rewards.
They talked about what they would ask for, how much they expected to receive…
All for the benefit of those listening outside.
Our conversation was being recorded.
"Mister, at least they're providing us with decent food. Here, try this."
"Ah, thank you."
I took the plate of meat from Erwen and started eating, my mind replaying the events of the past few days.
I had to make sure there weren't any mistakes in our story.
'…The checkpoint guards didn't seem to know anything.'
As soon as we returned to the Dimension Plaza, we stored our backpacks in our Bonding subspace pockets.
We had carefully sorted the items we could show them and the ones we couldn't.
And then we arrived at the checkpoint.
I declared that we were a royal special forces unit and demanded to speak with the Marquis.
It was intentional.
'The checkpoint was crowded with explorers, so the rumors about the special forces unit must have spread by now.'
The checkpoint official was flustered, but he just kept repeating the Marquis's orders, telling us to wait.
And then…
[We'll escort you from here.]
The knights from the Marquis's family arrived within 30 minutes.
They escorted us to the empty mansion in the Imperial City, the one where the founding ceremony was held.
[We'll carry your luggage.]
[Our luggage…?]
[It's the Marquis's order. We swear on our honor as knights that nothing will be lost.]
They even took the backpacks containing the loot we could show them.
And then we received healing from the priests they summoned.
And that brings us to the present.
Knock, knock.
We hear a knock on the door.
Right, it's about time.
They've finally finished assessing the situation.
"The Marquis wishes to see you all."
Let's be careful.
_______________________
We followed the knights to a reception room similar to the one we had been in before. The only difference was that the seat at the head of the table was empty… ṞÀɴÒᛒĘᶊ
And a crystal ball was placed there instead.
'A message stone…'
It was so absurd that I couldn't help but laugh.
We were so close to the Marquis's mansion, and yet he was using long-distance communication.
Well, at least he seems to understand.
That he had done something terrible to us.
[I apologize for greeting you all this way. I have urgent matters to attend to.]
"Well, it happens."
[Hmm, you're not using honorifics… So the other members know?]
His voice is subtle, but I can sense his curiosity.
I don't bother hiding it.
"It was inevitable. I already told you, I'm Bjorn Yandel. Ah, of course, I'll just say that I had to hide my identity because I was working with the royal family."
[I see. That's good to hear.]
"But don't you have something to say first?"
I cut to the chase.
My voice is laced with anger.
"Tell me. Why didn't the rescue team come?"
We had discussed this countless times during our journey.
We knew how to react.
"You must have heard my broadcast. What happened?"
[…We're still investigating the situation.]
"Investigating? You're telling me you're still investigating, after all this time? And you're contacting me through a message stone?"
[It seems like there were more enemies at Deadwood than we anticipated. We tried to rescue you, but we had to give up.]
It was the answer I had expected.
But I didn't expect this.
[It seems like Noark realized we were sending a rescue team after you sent that broadcast.]
Wow, he's blaming me now?
This bastard…
"Then what about the first message? If we had been able to contact you from the beginning, none of this would have happened!"
[It seems like… my son made a mistake.]
"…A mistake?"
I ask again, as if I had misheard him.
And…
[I apologize. It was my fault.]
I explode.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!"
Not at the Marquis or the royal family.
But at the one who was just a pawn.
"Etlora Terserion!"
[Calm down—]
"So it was all his fault! He was incompetent! He didn't receive our message in time!"
[That's not—]
"Marquis! Where is he?! No, don't tell me. I'll probably smash his head the moment I see him."
[....]
I slam my fist on the table, shattering it.
I take a few deep breaths, trying to calm myself down.
[…Are you feeling better now?]
The Marquis's eyes are filled with curiosity.
Well, this isn't like me.
I'm usually more rational, making calculated decisions based on the situation.
So…
"Compensation."
I calm down and speak.
As if my outburst was just a way to get his attention.
"You better have prepared a generous reward. I did everything you asked. I became the expedition leader, and I completed the mission."
[…Of course. I'll compensate you accordingly.]
I glance at the other members as the Marquis makes his promise, and some of them nod in approval.
It's all about the details.
[Now, we'll discuss the compensation later…]
"….."
[…Tell me what happened.]
Right, this is the main event.
I take a deep breath and start telling my story. The Marquis interrupts me with questions, so it takes longer than expected, but it's still over within an hour.
[You went through a lot because of my incompetent son.]
That's all he has to say?
"A lot"?
I feel a surge of anger, but I manage to control it.
[I'll make sure you're compensated for his mistake.]
The Marquis continues.
[And… congratulations on your survival.]
He doesn't mean it.
[I'll contact you again.]
The call ends.
"We'll escort you to your rooms."
Did our story work?
Well, only time will tell.
_______________________
We're escorted to our rooms.
A large bed with a soft, fluffy blanket.
Warm sunlight streaming through the window.
It's a luxurious room, especially compared to the icy ground we had to sleep on… but I can't fall asleep.
My body is exhausted, but my mind is still racing.
The other members must be feeling the same.
They're probably worried that the knights will attack us in our sleep.
"….."
I eventually drift off to sleep.
And…
'My head is still attached to my body.'
I wake up the next morning, unharmed.
Do I really have to live with this anxiety, even in the city?
This is going to be a long journey.
'Well, it can't be helped. I have to do it.'
Second day back in the city.
We receive our backpacks, which were confiscated yesterday.
I had asked why they took them, and the Marquis's answer was absurd.
[My, my… Did I not make myself clear? I just wanted my men to assess the loot and offer you a higher price. I'll make sure they don't misunderstand my orders again.]
He actually kept his promise.
He bought the items we wanted to sell at a price much higher than the market value, and we sold everything we didn't need.
Wow, we have a lot of money now.
[And one more thing. The public is very interested in the expedition force, thanks to your appearance at the checkpoint.]
Good news.
The broadcast about the Sky Eye being destroyed.
And the appearance of the royal special forces unit in the city.
Those two events combined had spread the rumors like wildfire.
[There will be a victory parade in two days.]
"A victory parade?"
[It will be held at the royal palace. We'll officially announce your existence and commend you for your achievements.]
Hmm, two days is a bit early.
Can they really prepare everything that quickly?
I'm suspicious, but I soon understand.
'Ah, they were already preparing for it.'
They were already preparing for the victory parade.
Even if the expedition force had been wiped out, they could still hold the event.
They would mourn the fallen heroes and celebrate the destruction of the Sky Eye.
[So be prepared. I'll send you the details and the schedule. Ah, and we'll provide you with the necessary attire.]
"Okay, I'll let the others know."
[The public is very interested. Please stay here until then. If you need anything, let me know.]
"Ah, then can I ask you a favor…?"
I made a request, and then time flew by.
And so…
"Waaaaaaaaaaah!"
"It's the heroes!"
The day of the victory parade had arrived.
-x-X-x-
The victory parade planned by the Marquis was simple.
It began at the Dimension Plaza in Ravigion, where we had returned, then passed through the commercial city of Commelby before heading toward the Imperial City of Karnon.
Pa-bam, pa-bam, pa-ba-ba-bam—!
A military band in full uniform played a lively tune.
Thump! Thump! Thump!
From a carriage adorned with drums, a majestic rhythm echoed throughout the procession.
"Waaaaaaaaaah!"
The cheers and blessings of the people.
And in the middle of the main street, showered with flower petals…
"It's the heroes!"
…we marched forward, clad in armor that would never see actual combat, like triumphant warriors returning from a legendary battle.
"Waaaaaaaaaah!"
The people's faces were bright with joy.
"They destroyed the Sky Eye, right? They've accomplished a great feat."
"This will definitely turn the tide in favor of the royal family."
"It was their biggest obstacle, after all."
Some explorers clapped their hands.
"Daddy, what's the Sky Eye?"
"Well, I'm not sure, but… it must have been something important."
"I want to be like them someday!"
"Of course you can, son. You can achieve anything you set your mind to."
A family, with a young son perched on his father's shoulders, had come out just to witness the festivities.
"Akuraba! It's Akuraba!"
"I thought she retired. To think we'd hear from her again in a place like this."
"It's Meland Kaislan!"
"Oh! There's the Blood Spirit Marquis!"
Some had joined the crowd just to catch a glimpse of the famous explorers.
And…
"Thanks to you… my son can finally rest in peace! Thank you… thank you so much…"
A woman, who had probably lost her family to Noark, rushed towards the carriage, tears streaming down her face, and grabbed my hand.
But did they know?
That the original victory parade planned by the Marquis would have featured empty coffins bearing our names.
Beeeeeeeep—
The overwhelming crowd was making me dizzy.
A ringing sound echoed in my ears, and it was becoming increasingly difficult to maintain my forced smile.
"Mister…"
Erwen gently placed her hand on mine.
Kaislan, who was riding in the carriage ahead of us, also looked back at me with concern.
Geez, are they worried I'm going to snap?
"Waaaaaaaaaah..."
The procession continued, and we reached Commelby after passing through Ravigion.
It was different from Ravigion.
There were more explorers, and the attire of the ordinary citizens was more formal.
Well, it still couldn't compare to the Imperial City.
Clatter, clatter.
The carriage wheels rolled on.
"Waaaaaaaaaah!"
The cheering crowd, the outstretched arms…
I couldn't enjoy any of it.
If it weren't for the conspiracy behind this expedition…
If all thirty of us had returned alive…
They would have been here with us, enjoying this moment.
And I would have been able to smile genuinely.
Thump!
A heavy weight.
Thump!
Another heavy weight.
Clatter, clatter.
The carriage continued on, passing through Commelby and entering the Imperial City.
The main street led straight to the royal palace, its gates wide open.
"Welcome the heroes!"
Knights lined the entrance, their armor gleaming in the sunlight.
A military band played a triumphant tune from the top of the walls.
And…
"I never thought I'd be back here."
The carriage finally came to a halt.
We were in front of the 'Palace of Glory', where my title bestowal ceremony had been held.
"Welcome the heroes!"
The palace gates swung open, and we stepped out of the carriage and entered the palace.
The formation was different from the parade.
I had been riding in the central carriage before, but now I was leading the way.
"Waaaaaaaaaah!"
The cheers that erupted as we entered the palace were slightly subdued compared to the ones on the street.
Well, most of the people here were nobles, or high-ranking officials from guilds and trading companies.
"What are you waiting for? Let's go."
Kaislan nudged me, impatient.
I had been standing at the entrance, looking around.
Tsk, he's so pushy.
Step, step.
I walked along the red carpet that led to the empty throne, my eyes scanning the crowd.
Even though there were thousands of people, it was easy to spot them.
They were the only ones who weren't celebrating.
They were mourning.
'There they are.'
"…Wait! Where are you going?!"
I ignored Kaislan's protests and walked towards the mourners.
Kaislan didn't try to stop me.
Step, step.
The procession changed course.
The military band, which had been following us, quickly adjusted their formation, their professionalism unwavering.
And…
Thud.
We finally reached them.
"….."
They looked up at me, their eyes filled with a mixture of surprise and grief.
The families of the fallen explorers, the ones I had asked the Marquis to allow into the palace.
Pa-bam, pa-bam, pa-ba-ba-bam—!
Damn it, that's annoying.
Can't they stop playing that music?
I wanted to complain, but the band didn't seem to notice my displeasure.
So I walked towards them and snatched their instruments, throwing them to the ground.
Clang!
The music stopped abruptly, and silence fell over the palace.
The crowd stopped cheering, and the only sound was the soft sobs of the mourners.
And…
Thud.
I knelt before them.
"I'm sorry. I couldn't bring them back."
I bowed my head, and the other survivors followed suit.
It was a gesture we should have done in front of the empty throne…
But I didn't care.
The King wasn't even here anyway.
"Thank you…"
A hand gently touched my head.
"How… how did he… how did Ashid die?"
It was Ashid's wife.
"He… he was like a mage from a fairy tale. He wasn't afraid of death, and he saved our lives."
She didn't say anything for a while.
She just sobbed softly.
"I… I see…"
He was a liar.
He had said his wife was a strong woman…
"What am I… what am I supposed to do now…? He was… he was such a good man… How could this…"
"….."
"Waaaaaaaaaaah!"
She collapsed to the ground, her grief overwhelming her.
And then the dam broke.
"M-Mckelly Leyaders! What… what happened to him? They just told me he was dead! They didn't tell me anything else…!"
"…Bentis Gerold! He was my father! I didn't even know he was going on a dangerous mission like this!"
"Kala! Tell me! Why… why isn't Rick here?! Why are you the only one who came back?!"
They rushed towards us, their voices filled with anger and grief, demanding answers.
And we, the survivors, responded like criminals, reciting the fabricated stories we had created.
And the crowd…
"What's going on? Is this part of the ceremony?"
"Wow, the royal family really went all out."
"I've never seen such an impressive victory parade!"
"It's a bit chaotic, but… well, it's entertaining."
…watched with amusement.
The chaos continued for a while, and then...
"…We can't delay this any longer."
The knights, following the Marquis's orders, intervened and restored order.
The ceremony resumed.
We returned to the red carpet and walked towards the empty throne.
The Marquis was standing there.
'He finally decided to show his face. He's been hiding behind the message stone all this time.'
I glanced at him and then knelt on one knee, bowing my head.
It wasn't out of respect.
I just didn't want to meet his gaze.
"You've walked a long and arduous path, heroes!"
The Marquis recited his lines, ignoring my actions.
He then summarized our journey.
Thirty heroes, bestowed with a sacred mission, had finally returned after overcoming countless trials and tribulations.
It was a lengthy and embellished story, but that was the gist of it.
It was a lie, a story we had fabricated.
And it didn't even mention the fact that the rescue team never came.
But…
"Even the frigid cold of the north couldn't extinguish your burning passion. The treacherous rebels couldn't steal your glory."
The crowd applauded as the Marquis praised our achievements.
"Ahem, ahem… I would like to speak about the meaning of sacrifice."
The Archbishop of the Tovera Church stepped forward after the Marquis.
The balding priest offered his condolences, focusing on the paladins and priests who had suffered the most casualties.
Beeeeeeeep—
Next was the Duke's family.
Beeeeeeeep—
Then the Explorer's Guild.
And then…
Beeeeeeeep—
Those who had planned to claim the victory for themselves were now taking turns praising us.
Clench—
It was disgusting.
But thankfully, my outburst earlier had shortened the ceremony.
The victory parade was finally reaching its climax.
"May the light of the royal family be with you."
The Marquis's words were followed by another round of music.
It was like saluting the flag at a school ceremony.
'It's about three minutes long, if I remember correctly.'
I counted to two and then spoke softly.
Just loud enough for the Marquis to hear.
"Hey, Marquis."
He looked at me as if I was insane.
It was probably unthinkable for the main character of the ceremony to be distracted at the most important moment.
Especially not in front of all these nobles.
"I've been thinking… what about my title?"
He must have realized that I might disrupt the ceremony if he didn't answer.
The Marquis quickly responded, his gaze fixed on the empty throne.
"As I said before, it will take at least two months."
"Two months…"
"That was our agreement."
"Right."
I chuckled and continued.
"But it feels too long. Can't you speed things up a bit?"
The Marquis didn't answer.
The music had ended, and it was time to resume the ceremony.
"….."
He glared at me, urging me to be patient, and then continued his praise for the royal family.
Geez, he should have at least answered my question.
Now I have no choice.
Barbarians don't understand unless you speak to them forcefully.
"May the light of the royal family be with you!"
The Marquis, after a lengthy speech about the greatness and benevolence of the royal family, finally turned to us and shouted.
It was the final event of the victory parade, as instructed by the Marquis.
"Expedition Leader Lihen Schuitz, report!"
It was time for the roll call.
The moment I finished this report, our long journey would officially end.
Therefore…
「Character has cast [Gigantification].」
「Size increases proportionally to Strength.」
I maximized my size, activating [Transcendence].
They wouldn't recognize me otherwise.
Thousands of eyes turned to me as my body grew rapidly.
"How dare you use an ability within the palace walls!"
"This is an insult to the royal family!"
Some were outraged by my actions.
But others…
"…G-gigantification?"
Bjorn Yandel's signature skill.
"Is that… a coincidence?"
"Wait, he looks familiar…"
"But he's dead."
"And he's an evil spirit…"
They were confused.
And the Marquis…?
"······!"
He stumbled back in shock.
Did he think I was going to assassinate him?
Swoosh.
I ignored him and looked at the empty throne.
And then…
"I speak the truth before the only true monarch."
I spoke calmly.
My gaze was fixed on the throne, but my voice was loud enough for everyone to hear.
One by one, I recited their names.
Remembering those who couldn't be here with us.
"Pike Neldain."
Executed for treason in Ice Rock.
I thought it was the right decision back then, but now I regret it.
He might have been our ally if he truly wanted the expedition to fail.
"Philip Aintropy."
A navigator from Kaislan's team.
He died during a surprise attack while we were waiting for the rescue team in Deadwood.
His skull was crushed.
We hadn't spoken much, but Kaislan told me later that he was a filial son who took care of his elderly parents.
"Mite Million."
He died instantly during our escape from Deadwood, struck by [Earth Spike].
I'll probably always wonder…
Could he have dodged it? Or did he deliberately sacrifice himself?
"Fiona Aimers."
She died from a stray attack while channeling the Multiple Teleportation spell with the other mages.
"Niaro Cambel."
The priest who rushed to help an injured warrior and died.
"Milburn Naria."
Our troll summoner, always polite and respectful.
She protected us all, but chose to die alone.
I hope she's finally home, surrounded by the scent of coffee.
"Matt Highbury."
A paladin, a tank.
I had forced him to discard his armor. He died protecting us, pushing himself to the limit, just before reaching the top of the Eye of the Glacier.
"Pasible Eric Colson."
Kaislan's subordinate and close friend. Kaislan had shed tears for him, but he had also comforted me.
He said that his friend's death wasn't meaningless because he had died following me.
'That's… the burden I have to carry now.'
I continued.
"Rick Jugsta."
He died fighting Noark after we regrouped.
The cause of death was [Earth Spike], the same skill that killed Mite Million.
"Bentis Gerold."
He bought us time to escape when the Rose Knights attacked from behind.
He was a man who always talked about romance.
He died a warrior's death, so maybe his romance was real?
"Royta Mamender."
The strict priest who died supporting us from the clifftop.
"Mckelly Leyaders."
A mage from Akuraba's team.
She never woke up after being hit by [Soul Extraction].
"Roan Beliaro."
The cheerful man whose motto was to live a long and peaceful life.
He died during a surprise attack by the Rose Knights.
"Jun."
The noble paladin who died standing.
He was a great man, even in death.
"Tsuon Iribun."
An archer from the 5th Team.
His upper and lower body were torn apart by a monster summoned by the priest from Karui after Sven Parab's defenses were breached.
He had asked the priest for one last favor before he died.
To sing a song of hope.
Even though he couldn't hear it because of the penalty.
"Puta Rikerburn."
The fixer for the Keallunus family.
A versatile explorer who could fight and guide.
He wasn't particularly skilled in combat.
But he had killed two Rose Knights in a row…
I couldn't believe it when I heard about it.
It was a heroic feat worthy of being recorded and shown at his funeral.
"…What power!"
The knights approach me, grabbing my arms.
But they must have realized something was wrong.
"Stop."
The Marquis dismissed them.
He's finally doing something I like.
"Periton Eriabos, Benjamin Orman."
These two had used the paladins' ultimate skill, the sacrificial spell, to defeat the Evil God's summon.
We would have all died without them.
"Liard Ashid."
He had used the Awakening spell, just like Dwarkey.
Not only had he inflicted heavy damage on the Evil God's summon, but he had also killed three Rose Knights.
Marone had told me, her eyes filled with tears, that she had wanted to do it herself, but Ashid had stopped her.
"Gruold Aldidi."
He had charged through the enemy lines, sacrificing himself to save me.
He must have wanted to live too.
'So many… are dead.'
The weight of their sacrifice was unbearable.
I continued, my voice calm and steady.
It was time for the final report.
"Twenty casualties."
Twenty explorers.
They had all joined this dangerous mission with their own dreams and goals.
And they had died.
In the cold, unforgiving wasteland of Ice Rock.
Longing for something they could never have.
They weren't all good people.
Some had embezzled funds, some had tortured innocent people.
Some might even say they deserved to die.
But…
'…None of them deserved to die like that.'
We had survived because of them.
Therefore…
"Liris Marone, Bersil Gowland, James Kala, Meland Kaislan…"
I had to say it.
For their sake.
"Sven Parab, Ravienniastorous, Emily Raines, Titana Akuraba, Erwen Fornachi di Tersia…"
I looked up at the Marquis before saying my name.
He was smiling, his eyes filled with a cold amusement.
He must have realized that it was too late to stop me.
I had already activated [Gigantification].
He muttered softly.
"Tsk, if only you had waited a little longer…"
Yes, it would have been better for you.
But I couldn't wait any longer.
I had to reclaim my name.
I had to take back my power.
So…
"Proud Viscount of the royal family."
I declared in front of thousands of nobles.
"I, Bjorn, son of Yandel, have returned! The expedition force has completed its mission!"
I'm back.
-x-X-x-
A tavern in the 7th District, always bustling with explorers.
A place where cheap liquor flowed freely, empty bottles littered the floor, and drunken brawls erupted at the slightest provocation.
Crash!
The door swung open.
After all, every world has its gossipmongers.
Especially when there's money to be made.
"Extra, extra! Read all about it!"
"What's this? A newsboy?"
The tavern owner, a burly man with a gruff demeanor, approached the boy, rolling up his sleeves.
"Hey, kid, no soliciting in my tavern."
"But it's an extra, sir!"
"Extra, my foot. It's probably just about the victory parade."
"Yeah, kid! You think we'd be interested in that? We're too busy drowning our sorrows in booze!"
"You've been complaining about it all day, haven't you? How the whole city's in an uproar over nothing."
"Alright, kid, come back when you're older."
The owner lifted the boy onto his shoulder and headed for the door.
And at that moment...
"You fools!"
"Hahaha!"
"Bjorn Yandel is back alive...!"
"Ha, ha...?"
A sudden silence fell over the tavern.
But it didn't last long.
"The kid's spouting nonsense."
"How can someone who died over two years ago come back to life?"
"And besides, he's an evil spirit!"
"That's why he's back! And he's not an evil spirit anymore! While you're all here getting drunk, the whole city's gone mad because of this!"
The boy's words, filled with an indignant sincerity, made the owner hesitate.
And...
"Wait a minute, I want to hear more about this."
One of the explorers showed interest, and the owner put the boy down.
"Ugh, the smell of alcohol..."
The boy, brushing off his wrinkled clothes, approached the explorer's table, and the explorer tossed him a few coins.
"Tell me more. Bjorn Yandel is alive? Are you sure?"
"Of course I'm sure! The Iron Marquis himself announced it in front of thousands of nobles!"
"...The Iron Marquis?"
"You see, it's like this..."
The boy trailed off, glancing at the explorers who were pretending to be uninterested but were eavesdropping on their conversation.
The other explorers sighed and tossed him more coins.
And so the story began.
It was a simple story, once you removed the boy's embellishments.
"So... Bjorn Yandel faked his death to complete a secret mission for the royal family, and the announcement about him being an evil spirit was also part of the mission?" ʀАΝòβƐṥ
"But what about Lihen Schuitz? Isn't he the Blood Spirit Marquis's man? The one who led the expedition force?"
"That's right. I was wondering how an unknown explorer could lead such a powerful team."
The return of a hero.
The explorers were intrigued and paid the boy to tell them more about the victory parade.
And after a while...
Crash!
Something shattered in the corner of the tavern, and the explorers turned to look.
Thud, thud.
A tall, muscular woman with a sharp gaze approached them.
"Um... what's going on...?"
The explorers, intimidated by her aura, remained silent.
Only the boy, despite his nervousness, asked her what she wanted.
"I heard your story, boy."
"...Y-yes?"
"Is it true? That Bjorn Yandel is alive? That he was Lihen Schuitz?"
Her voice was filled with a desperate longing.
The boy, sensing her sincerity, answered truthfully.
"...Yes! It's true!"
"I see... So that's how it was..."
The woman mumbled, as if in a trance, and then she pulled out a pouch and handed it to the boy before leaving the tavern.
The boy's eyes widened as he checked the amount.
"10,000 stones...?"
It was an exorbitant amount for a storyteller, especially one who frequented cheap taverns.
The other explorers were also surprised.
"She paid 10,000 stones for a story?"
"...To think there was such a wealthy person in a cheap tavern like this."
"Who was she...?"
"Hey, why are you so quiet?"
As they were wondering about the woman's identity, one man spoke softly.
"Holy shit..."
"You know her?"
"How many blonde female barbarians are there? And how many of them carry a giant greatsword on their back?"
"Just tell us who she is!"
"Ainar Frenelin, the Storm Sword."
The man's words stunned the explorers.
"What? She's one of the Seven Strengths?!"
"But... the Storm Sword... she was Bjorn Yandel's former comrade!"
"So that's why she was so interested..."
"It all makes sense now!"
"Wait, then even his former comrades didn't know he was alive?"
The tavern was buzzing with excitement again.
The patrons eagerly discussed the new information.
Only the owner was frowning.
"She... she didn't pay for her drinks..."
_______________________
The chaotic victory parade ended, and we returned to our homes.
I had been worried that the Marquis might try to detain us... but he didn't seem to have any such plans.
'So far, so good...'
I went to my room on the 2nd floor and unpacked my luggage, replaying the victory parade in my mind.
'He accepted it surprisingly well.'
When I revealed my true identity in front of thousands of nobles, the Marquis calmly continued the ceremony and managed to salvage the situation.
He said that my death had been faked for a secret mission, and that the announcement about me being an evil spirit was also part of the mission.
He even announced it publicly, even though the supporting documents weren't ready yet.
He had no choice.
'If he had denied it, the royal family's reputation would have been ruined.'
That was my intention.
What was the point of a victory parade if it was just going to be forgotten in a month?
This was the best way to make sure people remembered me.
The royal family was very sensitive to public opinion.
'Okay, so at least they won't try to frame me for anything in the next few months...'
The first step was successful.
Now I had to use the time I had to increase my influence.
So that even if the truth about the expedition was revealed, they would hesitate to eliminate me.
'I have a lot to do...'
I finished unpacking and went downstairs.
The living room was a mess.
"...Emily, what happened here?"
"We had an intruder."
"...Huh?"
"My hair, which I always leave on the doorknob, was gone. I searched the entire house, except for your room, but I couldn't find any listening devices."
"Then we should check the recording crystal ball."
Erwen had installed CCTV in the living room and the entrance.
But...
"I already destroyed it. It only stores one day's worth of footage anyway. And it's not that difficult to tamper with. They might have already done something to the magic circuits. We can't leave it there."
"...I see."
"They were amateurs, though. They didn't even touch the basement."
"The basement...? Ah, the navigator!"
I had forgotten about him.
Auyen Lokrob, the navigator we had captured from the pirates.
'Amelia said she had brought him enough food...'
But it had been several days since the labyrinth closed.
Could it be that he had been starving all this time?
"Is he alright?"
"He's fine. A bit skinny, but I prefer them that way."
That's not what I meant...
"And his obedience level has increased. He knows that I lied about the antidote, but he's even more dependent on us now."
"Uh..."
"Do you want to see him? He said he wants to be praised for staying quiet when he heard us coming."
"Ah, no... I'm good..."
"You should show him some concern too. Don't leave everything to me."
"...Later."
Anyway, I decided to put Auyen out of my mind for now. Amelia went to my room and searched it for listening devices, and then we all gathered in the living room.
"So... is the house safe now?"
"For now."
"Ha... It feels like it was all a dream."
Erwen slumped on the sofa, her tension released.
"Yandel, now that it's safe, can we open them?"
"Ah, the subspace pockets."
"Yes..."
Amelia's eyes sparkled like a child's on Christmas morning.
Well, I felt the same way.
I was curious about what was inside the Rose Knights' subspace pockets.
"Okay, let's open them on the count of three."
I counted silently.
And then...
Knock, knock.
We had a visitor.
We put the subspace pockets aside and checked who it was. I had been wary when I heard the knock, but thankfully, it was a familiar face.
"Raven."
"Sorry to interrupt you. I couldn't just sit there after hearing what happened."
"Come in."
Raven entered the living room and sat down on the sofa, bombarding me with questions.
Was reclaiming my identity part of the plan?
What were my plans for the future?
And...
"I'm so glad you're safe..."
The topic eventually shifted to the expedition.
"Yandel... are you okay?"
"Okay? What do you mean?"
"So many people died... I was at the Palace of Glory on the day of the victory parade... I saw everything. You apologizing to the families, reciting their names..."
"...I see."
"I'm worried about you. Are you really okay?"
Okay? How am I supposed to answer that?
I hesitated for a moment and then forced a laugh, patting Raven's shoulder.
"Why wouldn't I be okay? We're back alive."
"...What happened there?"
Only ten of us had survived.
It was a story that couldn't be told in a few words.
But...
"Nothing. It's just like the Marquis said."
I couldn't tell Raven the truth.
She was already burdened enough by helping me, an evil spirit.
And besides, she wasn't involved this time.
I couldn't burden her with our fight against the royal family.
"You seem distant today. Or rather, you've always been distant..."
"It's just your imagination."
"Yes, I guess so..."
An awkward silence followed.
Raven sipped her tea and then stood up.
Or rather, she tried to stand up.
Bang, bang, bang!
A loud banging sound came from the front door.
What? Is it a thief?
As I stood up, I heard a familiar voice.
"Bjorn!"
"Bjorn! Come out! Are you really alive?!"
It was my comrade.
It was like magic.
"Bjorn!"
I couldn't help but smile.
Heh.
I had reclaimed my name.
It was time for us to reunite.
'Only Misha and Bear are left now...'
It was time for us to gather again.
_______________________
Clatter, clatter.
The sound of cutlery echoed through the dining room.
Lee Baekho, chewing on the end of his spoon, cautiously spoke.
"Hey, Meowmeow."
"...I told you not to call me that."
"You don't like your surname, and you don't want me to call you by your first name?"
"Can't you understand? Just don't call me."
"Wow, you're so cold..."
He sighed and glanced at the others.
It was an ordinary meal, but everyone was awkwardly eating, watching his reaction.
Except for one person.
"Meowmeow."
"..."
"Why don't you go outside?"
"..."
"You're not a real cat, why do you never leave the house except for labyrinth expeditions? Look, your skin is so pale—"
Clang!
The Red Cat beastwoman slammed her spoon on the table.
And...
"I'm done."
She took her plate and went upstairs to her room.
Click.
Lee Baekho sighed as he heard the door close.
He looked at the others and asked for their opinion.
"She... she still doesn't know, right?"
The Ruin Scholar was the first to answer.
"You can't hide it forever."
"Yeah, I know, but... just be careful what you say. Okay?"
The Guide nodded.
"...I'll try."
"Good. Then that's it for today. Everyone, go do your own thing."
Lee Baekho smiled and left the dining room.
And...
Click.
He entered his room.
"..."
His smile vanished, his face hardening.
"Bjorn Yandel is alive..."
He didn't have any ill feelings towards Bjorn Yandel.
They were both evil spirits, after all.
He felt like he was looking at a promising junior.
He reminded him of his past self.
That's why he had taken Misha in, even though he knew she was an evil spirit. He was intrigued by her unwavering loyalty.
He genuinely felt sorry for them when they were separated.
But...
"This is interesting."
It was too late now.
He couldn't welcome Bjorn Yandel's return with open arms.
His carefully nurtured Ice Swordsman might be taken away from him.
Well, to be precise, he would be returned to his original owner...
"He should have come back sooner. This is just a nuisance."
Lee Baekho contemplated seriously.
"Should I just kill him?"
Eliminating any obstacles that stood in his way, regardless of his personal feelings.
That was his long-standing rule.
-x-X-x-
My reunion with Ainar was exactly as I expected.
A tearful reunion wouldn't suit barbarians.
So, this was better.
"Bjorn!"
"Ainar, it's been a while—"
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
As soon as I opened the gate, Ainar shoved me back into the yard.
And...
"You lied to me!"
The fistfight began.
It seemed like she was furious about me faking my death for over two years and then pretending to be Lihen Schuitz when we met at the library.
I deserved to be beaten up, considering the emotional distress I had caused her.
But that wasn't what Ainar wanted.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
I fought back, roaring my ancestor god's name.
Thud!
We exchanged blows, rolling on the grass.
The fight continued for a while, and then...
Ainar picked up her greatsword, which she had thrown to the ground in a fit of rage, and I shouted for Erwen to bring me my hammer.
"Both of you... stop it!!"
Erwen's intervention ended the fight.
She was frowning, her carefully tended garden now a mess, but I pretended not to notice.
Ainar was the priority right now.
"Ptoo!"
Ainar spat out a mouthful of blood and grinned.
"So it's really you, Bjorn..."
Is this what a natural barbarian is like?
She calmed down so easily.
Misha would have cursed me out and blasted me with ice magic.
"You haven't changed at all, Ainar."
"Really? I think I've changed a lot."
Ainar shrugged and approached me, punching me lightly on the chest.
"I probably won't understand what happened to you, even if you explain it. It's always been like that. But..."
"But?"
"I'm glad you're alive, Bjorn."
"Ah..."
I was speechless.
Her words were sincere, despite her casual tone.
But she must have also felt awkward.
"But... what's with that scrawny body?"
She looked down at me, and I felt a strange sense of shame.
My barbarian pride was wounded.
"It's because of the essence! The Bone Knight essence you absorbed! Don't worry, I'll remove it soon! Now that I have my name back!"
"Hmm, is that so? Do it quickly. It's weird to see you shorter than me."
Her words were like daggers to my heart.
"And... I should probably wait before taking you to the sanctuary. The tribe will be disappointed if they see you like this."
...My heart aches.
It would have been better if she had just insulted my gaming skills.
'I have to remove the Gachabon essence soon...'
"So... is the reunion over?"
Raven intervened, and Ainar finally noticed her.
"Oh! Aruru! It's been a while!"
"It's only been six months."
"Hahaha! You're so sensitive! You'll never grow tall if you keep frowning like that."
"I'm not growing any taller even if I don't frown!"
"Don't lose hope. Look at me!"
"That's because of the essence you absorbed!"
Raven shouted, and Ainar chuckled, rubbing her ears.
Raven then grabbed the back of her neck.
It was a heartwarming scene.
'It's been a while...'
A nostalgic feeling.
It wasn't just me who felt it. Raven, who followed Ainar inside, was also smiling, despite her angry outburst.
"...I'm glad."
"Huh?"
"You're back to your old self."
"...What are you talking about? Let's go inside."
"Okay."
We entered the house and continued our conversation.
Raven and Ainar awkwardly greeted Erwen, and then it was Amelia's turn.
"Barbarian, it's been a while—"
You're acting like you know her.
I quickly interrupted Amelia.
"You two know each other, right?"
"Know each other...?"
Ainar tilted her head.
I was speechless.
She had been so upset about me 'trampling on a warrior's honor' back then...
Well, she didn't recognize Amelia on Parune Island either.
"Ah, I remember! That Noark explorer who stayed behind with Bjorn at the end!"
Ainar nodded, remembering the incident on Parune Island.
"Her name was..."
"Emily Raines."
"Ah, that's right!"
That's not right at all.
We didn't even exchange names back then.
We just called each other 'looter' and 'bitch'.
'Should I just pretend I don't remember the incident on the 2nd floor?'
As I was thinking that...
"Emily Raines, was it?"
"Yes?"
Ainar spoke to Amelia in a surprisingly friendly tone.
And then she said something even more unexpected.
"Thank you."
"...Huh?"
"I don't know you well, but Bjorn must have trusted you. That's why he kept you by his side."
Ainar looked at Amelia with a sincere expression and thanked her.
"Thank you for being there for him during those difficult times."
"...It's nothing."
"Haha! It's my duty! I'm a bit jealous that it wasn't me, but it couldn't be helped! I'm in this state, after all!"
"..."
"I'm not smart like Aruru, and I'm not reckless enough to abandon my tribe like that fairy."
"...Hey, are you insulting me?"
Erwen finally spoke up, frowning, and Ainar smoothly dodged the question.
"Haha, did it sound like that?"
Wow, she's good.
She didn't even deny it.
Ainar's communication skills had improved significantly.
"Anyway, enough about that. Tell me what happened. I came here as soon as I heard the news, but what have you been up to?"
I spent some time explaining what had happened to me.
Of course, it wasn't the whole truth. I had to filter some information.
"Oh!"
"Ah!"
"Uh!"
"I see."
Those were the only four responses Ainar gave.
Unlike Erwen and Raven, the conversation ended quickly.
It was one of the advantages of talking to a barbarian.
But...
"...That's everything that happened."
"Oh!"
It was also a disadvantage.
You couldn't tell if they really understood.
Unless you asked directly.
"Do you understand?"
"Sort of!"
"...That's enough."
I quickly moved on to the next topic.
"You must have been surprised, Ainar."
"Huh?"
"The royal family announced that I was an evil spirit. It must have been a shock, not just for you, but for the entire tribe."
"Ah, that? It wasn't a big deal."
"...Not a big deal?"
"Only fools would believe that you're an evil spirit. No one in our tribe believed it. We just thought the royal family made another mistake."
Oh, I see...
It was a completely unexpected answer, but I had to continue.
"But what if... just out of curiosity..."
I cautiously probed Ainar.
"What if I really was an evil spirit?"
Her answer was crucial.
Depending on her response, I might have to retract everything I had told her and reveal the truth.
Erwen, Amelia, and Raven all gulped nervously.
And...
"Hahaha! You, an evil spirit? That's a good one!"
"Don't brush it off as a joke. I'm serious."
Ainar finally answered, unable to ignore my persistence.
"Hmm, you, an evil spirit... Well, there's only one answer, isn't there?"
"Only one answer...?"
"You're saying you would accept it? Because he's your comrade?"
Erwen and Raven asked, and Ainar tilted her head.
"What are you talking about? I would kill him, of course!"
"K-kill...?"
"The chieftain said so! Evil spirits must be eliminated!"
Phew, this isn't going to be easy...
_______________________
Raven and Ainar stayed until late that night. We chatted over tea and had dinner together.
And then the drinking began.
"It's getting late... I should be going."
Raven finally left, but Ainar stayed and drank until she passed out. She woke up the next morning and had breakfast before leaving.
"You said you have things to do today, right? Let me know when you're done. You should visit the sanctuary. I know I said that yesterday, but they'll be happy to see you."
"Okay..."
After Ainar left, Erwen also got ready to leave. She had to visit the sanctuary after what had happened in the labyrinth.
"I'll leave the house to you."
After Erwen left, I also left the house, leaving Amelia in charge.
I had a lot to do.
"It's Viscount Yandel...!"
As Erwen had warned me, there was a crowd gathered in front of the house.
It was to be expected.
The news about my return had spread throughout the city.
There were reporters, and also those who had come just to see my face.
"Viscount! Can we have a word with you?"
"Waaaaaaah!"
"Please shake my hand!"
Wow, so Ainar escaped on her own?
Well, it wouldn't have been difficult for her.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
I roared my ancestor god's name and charged through the crowd.
"Aaaaah! Run!"
"Follow him!"
Run?
I'm just moving forward.
Tadat, tadat!
I quickly escaped the crowd with my overwhelming strength and ran through the empty streets.
A few people tried to follow me, but I easily shook them off.
'Now, let's go...'
I put on a large robe and checked the map, heading towards my destination.
The closest one was...
'Here it is.'
A small house with a red door.
I took a deep breath and knocked on the door.
Knock, knock.
A woman with a haggard face opened the door.
"You're...!"
She looked at me, her expression filled with shock and disbelief.
It was understandable.
"Can I come in, Mrs. Ashid?"
She bit her lip and then stepped aside, allowing me to enter.
"I... I don't have anything prepared... Would you like some tea...?"
"It's fine. I didn't come for refreshments. I have something to return to you."
"Return...?"
I pulled out a box from my subspace pocket.
She carefully unwrapped the cloth and looked at the ashes inside.
Then she collapsed to the ground, her body wracked with sobs.
"Ah, ah, ah..."
"I'm sorry. I couldn't bring him back in one piece."
"Ah, ah..."
"And these are his belongings. They're all in his subspace pocket. Take your time and look through them. Let me know if anything is missing."
"..."
"And... if you need anything, or if there's anything I can do for you... here's my address. Please contact me anytime."
"Sob..."
"I'll be going now."
She didn't answer.
But I took her silence as a yes and stood up.
And then...
"Wait..."
"...?"
"Please... wait..."
She stood up and went to the kitchen.
And then she returned with a cup of tea.
"He... he always served this tea to his guests."
"I see... I'm not a tea connoisseur, but it smells good. It suits him."
"Tell me... about him... what was he like...?"
"I think we'll need more tea."
I took a sip of the tea and began my story.
It was mostly trivial things.
I couldn't tell her the truth.
Small anecdotes from the expedition.
Casual conversations we had.
His subtle acts of kindness and consideration.
"Everyone loved him. You know, he wasn't flashy, but he had a calming presence. He made you feel safe."
"Yes... he did."
"He was always a good listener, but he rarely talked about himself. That's why everyone was so surprised when he mentioned his wife..."
"He... he talked about me...?"
"Yes."
"What... what did he say?"
"He said you were a strong woman."
"..."
"But he also said you would cry if you lost your confidence."
"S-sob..."
She finally broke down, tears streaming down her face.
I looked away, giving her time to grieve.
And after a while...
"Thank you... for coming..."
"Don't mention it. I discovered a good tea thanks to you."
"...Are you going to the others now?"
I nodded.
"That's all I can do."
I left Ashid's house and continued my visits.
I returned the ashes of those who could be recovered.
And for those who couldn't, I gave their families their belongings.
And for those who didn't even have any belongings left... I apologized.
Their reactions were all different.
"Well, well, if it isn't the great hero, the Viscount! What brings you to my humble abode?"
Some were sarcastic.
Some were indifferent, accepting the belongings and sending me away.
Some were suspicious of the Marquis's story, while others were grateful for my visit.
But one thing was certain.
"Come on, Meilin... say hello to your mother..."
"Is this... my mother? Why?"
I was a sinner in their eyes.
And I would have to carry this burden until the day I could finally tell them the truth.
One day, two days, three days...
Time passed.
It took several days to return the fallen explorers to their families.
Four days, five days, six days...
And then...
「Character's soul resonates and is drawn to a specific world.」
...that day arrived.
-x-X-x-