Lee Hansu's room felt unusually strange today.
'It feels... small.'
I felt a strange sense of claustrophobia in this room that had always been my sanctuary.
And I wasn't even in my large barbarian body.
'Whatever, let's turn on the computer first.'
I quickly dismissed the strange feeling and turned on the computer, logging into the community.
[Long Live Korean Independence] - 0 users online.
I checked the Korean chat room first, but it was empty.
'Hyunbyul isn't here yet?'
I decided to check the forums first.
As expected, the forums were already filled with new posts.
Nonsense posts, advice requests...
I clicked on the most eye-catching post.
[Breaking News: Bjorn Yandel, presumed dead, returns alive.]
Content.
The poster's intentions were clear.
He was so desperate to be the first to post about it that he didn't even bother writing anything in the content section.
But it was the first post, so the comments were flooding in.
[Harbinn: Wow! The Marquis must be shocked, and the royal family must be in an uproar!]
[└Sogeking33: Well, I guess they would be surprised, considering this news is already two weeks old.]
[└these99: And the content is just 'Content'.]
[└OP: But I was fast.]
The reactions were mostly similar.
They weren't surprised, since they had already heard the news.
Well, some seemed to be hearing it for the first time.
[showmustgone: Wait, is this true? How can Bjorn Yandel be alive? He's dead!]
[└Sogeking33: Are you living under a rock? It's been a while since he made his return speech at the Palace of Glory.]
[└IsABot: I was there when he made his speech. It was chilling.]
[└arolf5205: And the way he apologized to the families before even greeting the empty throne... it was impressive. I thought I was a tough guy, but he's on a whole other level.]
[└WingPizza: The nobles' expressions were priceless.]
[└showmustgone: Return speech at the Palace of Glory? What are you talking about? Even if he's alive, he's still an evil spirit!]
[└ReDCod: He wasn't actually an evil spirit. He faked his death and was working on a secret mission for the royal family.]
I chuckled as I read the comments, and then I refreshed the page one more time.
[vaman: Am I the only one who finds the OP suspicious? He doesn't even know about the news that's spread throughout the city.]
[└vaman: Is this guy from Noark?]
Oh, he's right.
Noark's higher-ups would have known about my existence, but it's not impossible for some of their members to be unaware if the information was controlled.
[└WingPizza: I reported him to the admins just in case.]
Someone had already reported him, so I decided to check the chat room.
And...
Thump—
My hand froze on the mouse.
It wasn't surprise, but a sense of inevitability.
[Long Live Korean Independence] - 2 users online.
Two users were online.
There were three possibilities.
Someone random had stumbled into the chat room.
The GM had contacted Hyunbyul.
Or...
Thump!
Lee Baekho was back.
"Haa..."
If the GM had unbanned him, it was highly likely that one of the users was Lee Baekho.
But...
"Let's go in."
I would find out once I entered.
Whether it was a tiger or something else.
Click, click.
The screen flashed white, and I was transported to a familiar location.
A luxurious mansion, decorated according to Lee Baekho's taste.
Crackle, crackle, crackle.
Two figures were sitting on the sofa in front of the fireplace.
"Oppa!"
One of them was Hyunbyul, as expected.
"Why are you so late?!"
She sounded relieved and happy to see me. I had left abruptly after my conversation with the Marquis.
But before I could greet her...
Swoosh.
I shifted my gaze to the other person.
He was also looking at me.
"Ah, right. Introductions. This is another Korean—"
Hyunbyul tried to introduce us, but it wasn't necessary.
"We've already met."
"We've met, noona. We know each other."
He stood up from the sofa and approached me with a grin.
"It's been a while, hyung. I missed you."
His attitude was completely different from when we last met.
It felt strange, but I greeted him naturally.
"It's been a while, Baekho."
I had missed him too.
I had a lot of questions for him.
______________________
Crackle, crackle, crackle.
The fireplace crackled merrily.
The three of us sat on the sofa, chatting idly.
At least on the surface.
"Wow, so you two knew each other in real life?"
"That's right."
"That's amazing. I would be so happy if someone I knew came here."
Lee Baekho wondered why none of his friends had been summoned yet.
Then he looked at us with a sly grin.
"So... what's your relationship?"
Hyunbyul glanced at me and answered first.
"We're not in a relationship."
She didn't like talking about her personal life.
That's one of the things I liked about her.
"Come on... you're not fooling anyone."
Lee Baekho persisted, his voice teasing. Hyunbyul's smile vanished.
"Lee Baekho."
"Y-yes?"
"Why are you speaking informally?"
"Uh... it's not informal... it's... you know... that thing... banmal... we use it when we're close..."
"Are we close?"
Wow, it's been a while since I've seen her so serious.
"..."
Lee Baekho seemed flustered, but he quickly recovered.
"You're so sensitive."
His tone had become more aggressive, as if his true personality was starting to show.
But Hyunbyul didn't care.
"I'm the one who decides what's sensitive or not."
"Well, that's true. But technically, I'm older than you in real life."
It was a statement that would have been unthinkable in Korea, a Confucian society.
Only Lee Baekho, who had lived in this world for over ten years, could say such a thing.
"Haa..."
Hyunbyul sighed in exasperation.
"First, you're the one who called me 'noona' because you said real-life age matters."
"But—"
"Second, I never asked you to treat me like your older sister."
"But—"
"Third, I don't see you as my younger brother. You're a stranger I met today."
"Uh..."
"And I'm still using honorifics."
She continued, her smile returning.
The tense atmosphere instantly dissipated.
"So please respect my boundaries. It's not a difficult request, is it?"
Lee Baekho was defeated.
"Uh... uh..."
"Can you do that?"
"Yes..."
He nodded meekly, unable to retort.
But he couldn't hide his amusement.
He seemed to find the situation ridiculous.
'He can't win against Hyunbyul either.'
It was valuable information.
I had learned that I shouldn't provoke Hyunbyul, even though Lee Baekho had grown mentally stronger.
"Ahaha... So, hyung... have you met Hyunbyul noona in the city?"
"Huh? What do you mean? Met her in the city?"
I quickly responded to Lee Baekho's attempt to change the subject.
"Ah, he's asking if you've met in real life... not in the community... Damn it, how do I say this?"
"You're asking if we've met in the city?"
"Yes! That's it!"
Not yet.
I was about to answer honestly when...
"Why are you curious about that?"
Hyunbyul interjected, and I closed my mouth.
Lee Baekho did the same.
"You're so nosy, Lee Baekho. You've been asking so many personal questions."
"...Ahaha, have I?"
"Yes."
"..."
This is so awkward.
"Hyunbyul, stop teasing him."
"But he keeps asking personal questions."
"...He didn't mean anything by it."
"How can you be sure? He's a stranger."
"S-stranger? But we're both Korean! Noona!"
Lee Baekho protested, but Hyunbyul didn't budge.
"Are there no criminals in Korea? That's not the Korea I lived in."
"..."
"If you're that curious, why don't you tell us about yourself first? Who you are, what you do, where you live..."
"...Me? Why?"
"Wouldn't that make me feel more comfortable?"
"Uh... but that's a bit... you know... Men should be mysterious... Ahaha..."
"You're an interesting person, Lee Baekho."
Her eyes weren't smiling, and an awkward silence followed.
Damn it, he's going to run away at this rate.
We haven't even gotten to the main topic yet.
"Hyunbyul."
"Yes?"
"Can you excuse us for a moment? I need to talk to Baekho."
Lee Baekho flinched at my request.
He looked at me as if I was insane.
He didn't know Hyunbyul well.
"...Okay. I'll be back later."
Hyunbyul hated it when people crossed her boundaries without permission.
And she never crossed the lines drawn by others.
Well, there was that one exception...
"Don't disappear without telling me. I'll be back if I see that there's only one person online."
"Okay. And thank you."
"..."
Did she find my gratitude strange?
She stared at me for a moment and then left the chat room.
We were alone.
"Hyung...!! No, hyungnim!"
Lee Baekho stood up, impressed.
"You're the one who controls the situation! I knew it! I knew it all along!"
Control? What is he talking about?
I chuckled awkwardly, and he changed the subject.
"Ah! But what did you want to talk about?"
"Ah, it's nothing special. I just have a few questions. It's been a while since we last met."
"Really? Then how about we take turns asking each other questions? I'm also curious about you, hyung."
A truth game...
Why do I always end up in these situations?
I accepted his offer.
"Can I go first?"
"Sure."
Okay, at least I got the first turn...
I started with some lighthearted questions.
Or rather, they were disguised questions to hide my true intentions.
"First, are you really that famous Lee Baekho everyone's talking about?"
"Ah... so you know now."
He didn't deny it.
Well, it was only natural, considering how openly he had been using his name.
"You're pretty famous yourself, hyung. I mean, you're not that well-known, but..."
"Okay, it's your turn."
Lee Baekho asked cautiously,
"...What's your relationship with Hyunbyul noona?"
My heart sank.
"Why are you so curious about that?"
"Why wouldn't I be? What else am I supposed to be curious about?"
He sounded playful, but I couldn't be fooled.
"She was my girlfriend."
He stood up abruptly.
"I knew it! I knew it all along! There was something strange about you two from the beginning!"
The Q&A session continued.
Did he know anything about Noark's activities outside the walls?
Was it true that Auril Gabis was alive?
I asked him some serious questions, but he only asked trivial ones when it was his turn.
Like this.
"How did you even meet Hyunbyul noona? Did you ask her out?"
Is that why he wanted to play this game?
I ignored his question and increased the intensity of my questions.
"You're so nosy. What about you?"
"What? Me?"
"Yeah. Do you have a girlfriend? You've been here for over ten years. You could even get married if you wanted to."
"Hyungnim, that's crossing the line."
"Uh... sorry... I was just curious. You don't have one?"
"Well... it's not that easy."
"Really? Because you're an NPC?"
"I guess... you could say that."
"Hey, don't make that face. It's making things awkward."
"..."
"You're so stubborn. Think about it. I was just kidding about marriage, but you could at least have a girlfriend."
"Hmm... I'll think about it."
"Yeah, you should look around. You have female companions, right?"
"Ah, Misha Carlstain?"
"Yeah, that's her name."
"Hmm..."
Lee Baekho looked at me for a moment and then asked,
"How do you know her name?"
It was a question I had anticipated.
"I heard it from the Watchers of the Round Table. They said you used her to spread the rumor that Bjorn Yandel was an evil spirit..."
"So?"
"I'm curious now."
I asked cautiously,
"If it's true... why did you do it?"
It was one of the questions I had been wanting to ask him.
Why did he do such a thing?
"I didn't think you would do something that would harm another player."
I added a reason for my question and waited for his answer.
And...
"Hyung."
Lee Baekho finally spoke.
"It's my turn now."
"...Huh?"
"You asked if I had a girlfriend, didn't you?"
Ah...
Right.
"So it's my turn."
"...Alright, go ahead."
I nodded, and he looked at me for a moment before sighing.
"Ah, this is annoying. I shouldn't be doing this with you, hyung. This is something I should only be doing with enemies."
His sudden change in attitude was unexpected.
"Hyung, let's stop playing games."
"...Playing games?"
That's not the right word.
I was the one who was playing games.
'Playing games...?'
He was playing games with me too?
Thump, my heart pounded.
My mind raced, time seeming to slow down as I analyzed the situation.
Lee Baekho had been playing games with me.
What was he trying to achieve?
It was obvious.
When did it start?
I had a hunch.
What did I miss?
It didn't matter.
The important thing was what to do next.
'Whatever, the order has just changed.'
As soon as I finished analyzing the situation,
"Ah, I can hear your brain working."
I was brought back to reality.
"Hyung."
Lee Baekho spoke.
His voice was calm and collected, as if he wasn't about to expose my deepest secret.
"Are you really Bjorn Yandel?"
He asked.
And after a moment of silence, I answered.
"Yeah."
-x-X-x-
Lee Baekho.
Twenty-three years old.
A recently discharged soldier with a buzz cut and youthful features, like a naive country boy.
That kid called me 'hyung'.
[Me? It's been... over ten years.]
At least 10 years.
No, it had been four years since he said that, so at least 14 years.
He had survived in this city for over 14 years, even though he was a player.
At first, I thought he was just a strange kid.
But...
[You're one of them now.]
Hans A's words in the Vessel of Punishment made me realize...
The determination and tenacity behind his words.
[Hyungnim! Don't say such bullshit! I'm going back! So you have to count my real-life age!]
Lee Baekho wasn't strange.
He was just desperate.
That's why he was so easy to read.
[Unban me quickly. Or you'll really die here.]
His words were frivolous.
[Hey, you bastard. Who told you to set fire to my stuff without my permission?]
He acted recklessly, relying on his overwhelming strength.
[Wow, you're a real player?]
He might seem impulsive, driven by his desires...
But his ultimate goal was simple.
[I don't form attachments in this world.]
To escape this damn world and return to his original life.
There's no one easier to deal with than someone with a clear goal.
But I had been wary of revealing my identity to him.
But...
'There's no need for that anymore.'
He already knew I was an evil spirit, even though he didn't know I was Lee Hansu.
And most importantly...
"Wow, that's amazing..."
I had gained some confidence.
Even against a monster like him, I could protect myself.
"So... you really are Bjorn Yandel. If Lihen Schuitz is Bjorn Yandel, then you were the one I met in Atlante..."
Lee Baekho, after exclaiming in surprise several times, finally sighed in relief.
"...I'm so glad I found out now."
That part bothered me.
"Glad...?"
"Ah... it's better if I don't say anything."
"I'll be the judge of that."
His eyebrows twitched at my firm tone.
"But hyung..."
"..."
"Why are you being so aggressive towards me?"
He sounded confused, not angry.
And then he seemed to realize something.
"Ah... right, I was a bit of a jerk back then..."
He must be remembering our past encounters.
"Sorry, hyung. I didn't know it was you. You'll forgive me, right?"
He apologized before I could even respond, and then he sighed again.
"You should have just told me, hyung. Then none of this would have happened."
He's making me angry.
"So you're saying it's my fault?"
"No, I didn't say that. But it is my fault, in a way. You became known as an evil spirit because of me."
His calm tone made me even angrier, but I suppressed my emotions and focused on the conversation.
"Now that we know each other's identities, I'll ask again. Why did you do it?"
"I needed a symbol for my plan. Like I said, if I knew it was you, I would never have done that."
Well, I don't believe him.
I know him too well now.
"Even if I was really dead?"
Would he have really chosen not to use me?
______________________
"..."
Silence.
Does he hate lying?
I can't be sure.
Maybe he just avoids telling obvious lies.
He changed the subject.
"Aren't you curious how I figured it out? I thought you would ask me right away."
The answer was simple.
I had other priorities.
The past couldn't be changed, no matter how much we analyzed it.
Even if it meant going back in time—
"Ah, of course, you wouldn't have answered even if I asked."
What is he trying to do?
"But I wasn't completely sure. That's why I decided to test you."
I didn't need to hear how he did it.
He had acted normally, even though he suspected me. He waited for me to mention 'Misha' or 'Bjorn Yandel' first.
'He must have acted so flustered around Hyunbyul to make me lower my guard...'
"Ah, by the way, Hyunbyul noona is scary. How did you even date her? Wow, it's been a while since I lost a battle of nerves. I couldn't help but laugh."
Hmm, was he really flustered?
I couldn't tell, but it wasn't important right now.
"Anyway, enough about that."
He got straight to the point.
"Why did you take Misha?"
"For the labyrinth, of course."
So that was the reason.
I had expected it, but hearing him say it made me feel strangely relieved.
"You were raising her for the same reason, weren't you? An Ice Dual Swordsman is useful in the latter half of the 9th floor."
But there was still a question.
"You could have chosen someone else. Why Misha?"
"I liked her devotion. I thought she would never betray me if I promised to revive you with the Stone of Resurrection."
"Is that all?"
"Well, there were other reasons, but... they're not important. Honestly, it was a bit of a whim. I was curious to see if her feelings would remain unchanged even after knowing she was an evil spirit."
He didn't seem to be lying.
He didn't seem to care much about Misha.
Or rather, he saw her as a tool.
"Ah, right! I'll give her back to you if you want. I've been training her for years, and I feel a bit guilty towards Hyunbyul noona... but..."
He was only interested in me.
"We're friends, aren't we?"
He grinned at me.
"I can do that much for you. Right?"
His excessive friendliness made me uneasy.
He wasn't just being nice to me because I was Korean.
There was another reason.
He wouldn't give up Misha so easily if his goal was to return to Earth.
But...
'It's better to play along for now.'
I didn't probe any further.
My priority was to get Misha back safely.
"Okay, now that the Meowmeow issue is settled, let's talk about something else!"
"Something else?"
"I'm just curious about you, hyung. I wasn't as strong as you when I was your level. And you even absorbed the Deep Sea Giant essence recently. Based on the confirmed facts, I estimate you have at least four 3rd-grade essences..."
He started asking me questions, and I answered selectively.
Give and take.
I had to show him some sincerity since he had agreed to return Misha.
But...
"So where were you for the past two and a half years?"
That question made me hesitate.
Should I tell him about the past?
I made my decision.
'He already knows I'm Bjorn Yandel, so there's no point in hiding it. And I might even get some useful information from him.'
Auril Gabis was our common enemy.
It was important to share information and discuss how to deal with him.
So...
"The Fragment of Records... I've heard of it, but I didn't know it actually existed."
I told him about being dragged back in time on Parune Island.
And...
"...You met Auril Gabis?"
I focused on my experience in the community 20 years ago. He wouldn't be interested in the part about saving Amelia's sister.
"Wow... so he was the one who created this community."
"I know. Ruinjenes told me... Wait, he said Auril Gabis brought a strange guy with him before the community crashed... Could it have been you, hyung?"
"Probably."
"Wow... you're like the main character. Tell me more. What happened next?"
"He was very interested in the fact that I was a player from the future."
I explained my conversation with Auril Gabis, omitting the part about clearing the original mode.
Surprisingly, Lee Baekho already knew most of it.
He was companions with the Ruin Scholar, after all.
And I had told him about the past hoping to get information about him.
"I know the Earth Witch is alive. But I don't know where she is."
"The old man said she's at the place where everyone's desires converge. Any ideas?"
"Huh? That's his answer? That's easy. Where else could she be, besides the end of the labyrinth?"
"But there was no final boss in the game."
"That's because it was a tutorial. You should know by now, hyung. This place is different from the game. Maybe the Earth Witch is the final boss. Hmm, then how do we prepare for that?"
Our conversation was quite fruitful.
I had actually gained more information than I had given.
"Kagureas... you're talking about the barbarian who collected three Genesis Artifacts, right?"
Three? There were only two when I was there...
Wait, more importantly...
"He was a barbarian...?"
"You didn't know? You have a connection with him. You were called 'Little Balkan', remember?"
...What?
"Don't tell me..."
"Yes. Kagureas is Balkan. Or at least that's the most likely scenario. April 2nd, 136th year of the New Era. Balkan died at the age of 55, and then the Genesis Artifacts, which had disappeared after his death, were returned to their respective races."
It was a shocking revelation.
The legendary explorer who had inspired my alias was an evil spirit?
"Do you know anything about the portal in the royal palace basement?"
"I've been investigating it, but I haven't found much. Just that it's an exit, not an entrance."
"An exit?"
"You can't enter through it, but you can exit through it. If you enter a portal somewhere else, you'll end up in the royal palace basement."
Hmm, I see...
That sounds suspicious.
Anyway, we continued our conversation, and then we talked about the question I had asked Auril Gabis.
[Auril Gabis, do you feel any remorse for the countless 'evil spirits' who were dragged here and died because of your greed?]
Lee Baekho burst into laughter.
"Pfft! Hahaha! You really asked him that?"
"Why are you laughing?"
"It's just... so like you, hyung... You're still so naive..."
What? Naive?
I was speechless, but he seemed to be serious.
"So? What did he say?"
I repeated his answer verbatim.
[Of course I feel remorse. I feel responsible. I'll probably carry this burden for the rest of my life and atone for my sins.]
He had said that while looking me straight in the eye.
[Is that a satisfactory answer?]
And the jewel had emitted a red light.
"Hmm..."
I had expected him to curse the old man with me, but he had a strange expression on his face.
"This is ambiguous."
"Ambiguous?"
"He talked too much. And he was being overly dramatic."
"Huh?"
"It's a classic tactic to hide a lie within the truth. And besides, you could only answer with yes or no, right?"
He was suspicious of Auril Gabis's intentions.
And come to think of it, he wasn't wrong.
"Hmm, but why would he do that? Was it just a coincidence? What do you think, hyung?"
"I don't know... We can't read his mind."
"That's... true."
The discussion about Auril Gabis's answer ended there.
Lee Baekho seemed to have something else on his mind.
"Hyung..."
"What is it? You're making me nervous."
"Ah, this might be a bit personal..."
"Just ask."
"Okay?"
He asked cautiously,
"What's your goal, hyung?"
It wasn't an unexpected question.
But I was surprised by his next words.
"My goal?"
"Do you want to return to Earth?"
So that's what he was curious about.
"You said you weren't sure when we met in Gnome Tree."
That's right.
He had then asked if it was because of the Red Cat beastwoman, and when I didn't answer, he had advised me not to expect too much from NPCs.
'...He didn't care much about Bjorn Yandel back then.'
"Are you still unsure?"
"Well..."
"You should think about it seriously. It's been a while since survival was your only goal."
His intentions were clear, but I pretended to contemplate. It was a question I had been asking myself lately.
"My goal..."
I had only been pretending, but my mind started racing.
What was my goal?
"If it's difficult, think about it this way. There's a button. And if you press it, you can return to Earth."
His advice was surprisingly helpful.
Even though I didn't know what my future self would choose...
"So, what will you do?"
...I could understand my current state.
"..."
If there really was such a button, I would have hesitated for a long time.
And I would have thought about it endlessly.
What was waiting for me back home?
I could think of countless things.
"..."
Hamburgers, cola, games.
Entertaining media and the convenience of modern technology.
A life where I didn't have to kill, where I didn't have to bleed or suffer.
A peaceful life, where I didn't have to worry about survival.
Yes, that's the life I wanted.
But...
"..."
Even though this world was a living hell...
'I probably wouldn't press it.'
That wasn't the life I wanted anymore.
"Have you made up your mind?"
"Yes."
I had reached a conclusion.
My goal was to survive.
To survive in this dangerous world, with the people I had met here.
That was my true desire.
Therefore...
"Can you tell me? What are you going to do?"
I met his gaze and answered.
"I'll press the button."
I decided to play along for now.
I knew what he wanted to hear.
"..."
He stared at me in silence.
An awkward silence followed.
A heavy silence.
"Tsk."
He clicked his tongue.
"That's rude. It's not like you're looking down on me because I can't use skills here."
He was looking at me with a cold gaze I had never seen before.
"You're lying."
-x-X-x-
Abilities are sealed within the community.
Therefore, the lie detection that had given me so much trouble outside wouldn't work here.
Of course, even if he could use it, I had Auril Gabis's gift to counter it.
But that wasn't the point.
'…Is he testing me?'
There were two possibilities.
One, Lee Baekho didn't know whether I was telling the truth or not, so he was pretending to be serious to verify my claim.
And the second possibility…
Thump!
…was that he was certain I was lying.
'Damn it.'
My heart pounded.
Maybe I had underestimated him.
He had survived in this harsh world for over a decade. He couldn't be a fool just because he didn't have a lie detection skill.
In fact, he might be even more perceptive without it.
He must have encountered countless liars and learned their patterns thanks to that skill.
'It's unlikely that he's just testing me.'
I quickly made a judgment.
'It's better to admit my mistake and apologize than to try and make excuses.'
But Lee Baekho spoke first.
"Hyung."
"…Yeah?"
"Sorry, but I can't return Meowmeow."
"What…?"
He smirked at my question.
"Did you lose your hearing too while living as a barbarian?"
He was mocking me.
I had never heard such a condescending tone from him when I was Lee Hansu.
He then spoke clearly.
"I can't return her."
"….."
"Meowmeow, the one you care so much about."
My mind went blank.
"You do care about her, don't you? She's much more useful to me than you are. You just want to live in this world."
"….."
"Ah, of course, don't worry."
I wasn't angry.
"I'll return her to you once I'm done with her."
I just laughed.
I didn't even know why.
"Baekho, you…"
I knew it was a provocation, that I should try to de-escalate the situation…
But the words just came out.
"You're a real piece of work."
I didn't even regret it.
"Wow, showing your true colors now? You're always so cunning in front of me."
Lee Baekho chuckled.
"You're one to talk."
I smirked.
We were both smiling.
But…
Crackle, crackle, crackle.
The air between us was cold, despite the warmth of the fireplace.
"This is interesting."
"Yeah, it is."
We both mumbled, and then he spoke.
"But I don't understand. Why am I a piece of work?"
He had dropped the honorifics.
"You're the one who's messed up."
"….."
"You could go back to your old life, but you're choosing to stay here with those NPCs."
His words were accurate.
An objective observer would definitely say the same.
But it didn't matter if it was true or not.
"Ugh, you're going to thank Auril Gabis someday—"
He's so talkative.
That's not how you win a keyboard battle.
"You seem angry, Baekho."
I tried to maintain my composure.
It was my turn to attack.
I didn't need a long speech.
"I understand. You're the one who got dumped."
"…Dumped?"
He looked confused.
I explained.
"Don't play dumb. Everyone knows that the women you liked all ran away after finding out you were an evil spirit."
"…Huh."
"Is that why you're so desperate to go back?"
He's acting like a child.
I muttered softly, but he overheard me.
"...."
His face contorted with anger.
But only for a moment.
"Haha! Hahaha! Keuh, hahaha!"
He burst into laughter, as if I had told him a funny joke.
It was a classic coping mechanism.
He was laughing because he couldn't accept the truth.
I just stared at him, and he eventually stopped laughing.
"Hyung."
"What."
"Meowmeow… what if I just kill her?"
Damn it.
"She's more useful to me if she's dead, isn't she? You want to stay in this world, right?"
My heart clenched with each word.
"Don't worry."
"I'll return her to you once I'm done with her."
He smiled.
It was a bright, cheerful smile that didn't suit the situation.
I instinctively felt a chill run down my spine.
But…
"Baekho."
There was a stronger emotion.
"Yes?"
Killing intent.
The desire to kill.
"If you keep doing this…"
I didn't need to control my mind like I did at the Round Table.
I just had to let it out.
The killing intent that had been building up inside me.
"I'll have to kill you."
"…!"
Lee Baekho flinched as he felt my killing intent.
But only for a moment.
He then spoke, his words different from anyone I had met before.
No apologies.
No resentment.
No pleas for mercy.
In that suffocating aura that would have made the Corpse Collector crawl on the ground and whimper…
"Wow…"
…he let out a genuine gasp of admiration.
"You're insane… The others would be terrified."
He cracked his neck and approached me.
"Hyung."
One step.
"Don't you remember?"
Two steps.
"I taught you this."
Three steps.
"Killing intent."
He was within arm's reach.
And I felt it.
"…!"
His killing intent.
______________________
Killing intent.
A veteran's trick to intimidate newbies.
I had used it countless times at the Round Table, but I had rarely been on the receiving end.
Only once, to be precise.
When I first joined the Round Table, I was hit by Fox's killing intent.
It's a strange feeling.
The same feeling I had back then.
My skin tingled, and my heart pounded.
And that was it.
"Now…"
But Lee Baekho's killing intent was different.
The density, the intensity…
It was overwhelming.
I finally understood why the Corpse Collector had been so terrified.
Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump!
My heart pounded so hard that I thought it might burst.
Cold sweat dripped down my face.
I couldn't breathe, even though I didn't need to.
My head throbbed.
But…
"What? I'll have to kill you?"
I wasn't completely overwhelmed, unlike the Corpse Collector or Fox.
It was difficult, but I could endure it.
I wanted to run away, to leave the chat room and escape this suffocating aura…
But I knew.
"…Huh?"
I took a step forward, forcing myself to move.
And…
Step.
I looked down at him.
"Not really."
I whispered.
"I think I can do it."
It wasn't a bluff.
[You cleared the 10x version, right?]
I was confident.
[Maybe you'll be as strong as me in 10 years.]
I might be weaker than him now…
[I've already reached my limit…]
But if I was given enough time…
'You cocky bastard.'
I could surpass him.
And he sensed it.
Lee Baekho, who had been staring at me with a serious expression, forced a smile.
"…This is interesting."
Damn it, interesting?
"That's rude."
I repeated his words from earlier.
"Why are you lying?"
He tilted his head, pretending not to understand, and I continued.
"You're not…"
"….."
"…having fun at all."
Otherwise, why would he be backing away—
"…Whoa, whoa! That's enough!"
He raised his hands defensively and took three steps back.
"Ah! Come on, hyung! You can't even take a joke?"
His expression and tone had changed completely.
He was back to his usual playful self.
"Why would I kill Meowmeow? I have nothing to gain from it."
He was right, logically speaking.
He would lose his Ice Dual Swordsman and make an enemy out of me.
It wasn't a rational choice.
But…
"If you had succeeded, you could have used it to control me."
I shuddered at the thought.
Our conversation would have been completely different if I had lost the battle of nerves.
'So this is his Plan B?'
I stared at him, and he spoke cautiously.
"I'm not going to ask you to come back with me. I understand how you feel now."
"Get to the point."
"But we can still cooperate, can't we?"
He paused and looked at me with a suggestive gaze.
I wasn't interested.
"…Continue."
"You know your situation better than anyone, right?"
Well, I'm definitely more aware of it than you are.
It's not good. There are countless problems.
It's like walking on thin ice every day.
"So?"
"I'll help you. I'll make sure you survive. I'll support you, in every way possible. In exchange, you help me reach the 10th floor."
His offer was tempting.
Unlike me, he had no restrictions.
He could even assassinate the Marquis for me.
But…
"Baekho."
"…Yes?"
"There's something you should do first."
"….."
I didn't elaborate.
I didn't understand why he was so obsessed with me, but…
"Bring me Misha. We'll talk after that."
"...."
"Answer me."
He remained silent.
He seemed to be deep in thought.
Well, if he returned Misha, he would lose one of his bargaining chips—
"Hyung."
He finally spoke.
"We're both a bit agitated today. Let's call it a day."
He was postponing the decision.
"What…?"
"Don't you agree? I can't think straight right now. Let's talk again next time. I'll think about Meowmeow. Okay?"
Okay?
"Okay—"
—No way.
"Hyung, you said okay?"
"…What?"
"Then I'll be going!"
"Wait! Hold on—"
I reached out, but there was nothing I could do in this spiritual space.
Thud.
The moment my hand touched his body…
"Poof!"
…he disappeared into particles of light.
-x-X-x-
At first, I was just dumbfounded.
But as I stood there, watching Lee Baekho disappear, the reality of the situation slowly sank in.
"Phew…"
He's really gone.
That bastard.
'What was with that 'poof' sound…?'
At least I feel a bit lighter now.
I hadn't even noticed how tired I was until he left.
"...."
I feel completely drained.
My head is pounding, even worse than when I pulled all-nighters in college, fueled by coffee.
'Wait, is that why he said his head wasn't working?'
Ah, whatever.
It doesn't matter.
Thud.
I collapsed onto the sofa.
I needed a mental break.
But…
'I can rest later.'
I recited my to-do list out loud, my mind still sluggish.
"…First, I have to review the conversation."
From our first reunion to his sudden departure.
I replayed every detail of our conversation in my mind.
It's my usual routine after an incident.
But my head felt like it was about to explode.
I couldn't remember his exact expressions or the nuances in his tone.
"Ugh, my head hurts…"
It was like trying to accelerate a car with an empty gas tank.
I had the will, but my mind wasn't cooperating.
So I focused on the most important parts.
[Are you really Bjorn Yandel?]
The bait he threw.
[We're friends, aren't we? I can do that much for you. Right?]
His willingness to give up Misha after finding out my identity.
[There's a button. And if you press it, you can return to Earth.]
His expectations.
And…
[You're lying.]
His disappointment.
'There was a lot…'
My thoughts became hazy as I reviewed the conversation.
Maybe he was somewhat satisfied.
He hadn't gained anything, but…
He hadn't lost anything either.
At least not today.
'…Revealing my identity as Bjorn Yandel was part of the plan anyway.'
I had planned to subtly probe his intentions, reveal my identity, and then use our connection to demand Misha's return.
If that didn't work, I would threaten him.
I could imply that I was the one who had him unbanned, and that I could have him banned again.
Well, I didn't even have to mention that.
[Unban me quickly. Or you'll really die here.]
Considering how desperate he was to return to the community, even after causing chaos in the city, it would have been an effective threat.
'…But why was he so desperate to be unbanned?'
That thought crossed my mind, but I didn't dwell on it.
How could I possibly know what he was thinking?
He probably just missed talking to other Koreans.
"...."
I closed my eyes and let my thoughts wander.
'What is he expecting from me?'
I couldn't understand.
[Help me reach the 10th floor.]
Help him reach the 10th floor?
I'm flattered, but… am I really that valuable?
'Well, considering my growth rate, it's not a completely unreasonable expectation…'
But there was something that bothered me.
He had realized that I was an evil spirit back in Gnome Tree.
[Remember, we're strangers next time we meet.]
He had been indifferent back then.
He didn't even try to befriend me.
But…
'This is strange…'
If he had simply judged that 'Bjorn Yandel' wasn't worth his time back then…
What had changed?
My growth rate was even more ridiculous back then, and I had just become a hero, even receiving a noble title—
[I've been nice to you since we first met!]
One of his statements suddenly came to mind.
'From the beginning…?'
Yes, he had been friendly from the start.
Then why?
"Because I'm Lee Hansu, not Bjorn Yandel."
No, that's wrong.
[I believe you. You're Korean.]
Then because I'm Korean?
Hmm, that's ambiguous.
Maybe it was just a prerequisite.
He had been waiting in the empty Korean channel for over three years.
Waiting for a fellow Korean who might never come.
'…Would someone that obsessed with his goal waste his time just because he's lonely?'
I don't think so.
Hyunbyul was also Korean, but she was cold and distant, unlike him.
Then what was the reason?
Why was Lee Baekho so friendly towards me from the beginning?
"This is crazy."
I opened my eyes and sat up abruptly.
And then I realized as I looked at my reflection in the mirror.
"Nickname."
Yes, it was the nickname.
The nickname I had created without even realizing I was famous in the community, just adding a letter to my old one.
[Elfnunna]
There was no other explanation.
I hadn't thought about it until now because Lee Baekho had never mentioned it…
'But it's strange that he never even brought it up…'
Even in the 'Newbie Room', where I had first entered with this nickname…
[Elf Noona?!]
[The one who wrote the stat guide?]
[…Isn't she from the game company?]
[She's Korean! I knew it!]
Everyone had been excited to see me.
[You seem to be a fan of hers.]
Even the GM, who wasn't usually expressive, had seemed happy to see me.
[What a strange nickname…]
Even Hyunbyul, who didn't know anything about 'Elf Noona', had frowned at my unusual nickname.
But Lee Baekho hadn't reacted at all.
That playful kid who loved dinosaurs and farts…
'He didn't say anything about my nickname…?'
It wasn't certain yet, but maybe…
Maybe he had been waiting for me.
From that day forward.
Hiding his true intentions behind a smile—
"Um…"
I heard a voice next to me, snapping me out of my thoughts.
"Oppa, what are you doing, staring at the mirror…?"
It was Hyunbyul.
_______________________
'I'll think about Lee Baekho later… when my head is working properly…'
I couldn't rest for long.
Should I just run away?
"…You're thinking bad thoughts again, aren't you?"
"…No, I'm not."
Well, it would be ridiculous to burden her with my problems when she's also exhausted.
"Hmm, that's exactly the look you had…"
"I said I'm not. By the way, why are you using banmal with me when you were so harsh with Lee Baekho?"
"What are you talking about? It's normal."
She looked at me with a condescending expression and sat down next to me on the sofa.
But she left one seat empty between us.
"There's plenty of space, why are you sitting so far away?"
"Because there's a line between us. I can't cross it."
…It seems like she's still upset about me asking her to leave earlier.
Well, she should have just said no.
"...."
"...."
Silence.
Our relationship had been like this.
We were comfortable with each other, even in silence.
Well, that was when we were dating.
'…This is awkward.'
I spoke first, unable to endure the silence any longer.
"Hyunbyul."
"Yes."
"…Why aren't you saying anything?"
I glanced at her, and she was staring at the fireplace, not at me.
"You looked tired."
"…Huh?"
"You look like you just got scolded by your boss."
Well, she didn't know how much worse it was compared to that.
"So… do you want me to keep you company?"
"No."
"Okay, then I'll be quiet."
"Quiet?"
"I have a lot of questions, but I'm trying to be considerate. I don't want to burden you."
Uh…
Really?
That's…
"Thank you…?"
"…Whatever."
She turned away, as if embarrassed by my gratitude.
Damn it, I wasn't being sarcastic.
She's making me feel awkward.
"…I'm going to rest for a bit."
"Okay."
I decided to accept her consideration.
I was exhausted.
It wasn't just because of the killing intent I had used, but also because it was my first time being exposed to such a powerful aura.
"...."
"...."
A peaceful silence followed.
It felt like I was back on Earth.
The only difference was that the sound of Hyunbyul flipping through a book was replaced by the crackling of the fireplace.
Crackle, crackle, crackle.
I slowly opened my eyes.
"You're awake?"
"Ah, uh…"
I was a bit surprised.
So you can fall asleep in the spiritual world too.
I felt a bit more refreshed.
"How long was I asleep?"
"About an hour and a half."
Whew, there's still time before the Round Table.
"You look better now."
"Thanks to you."
"Then let's begin."
"Huh?"
Begin? Begin what?
"Oppa, what was that about? That guy?"
She asked as soon as I woke up.
"That guy?"
"Lee Baekho. That was him, right?"
Her grammar was a bit off, but I understood what she meant.
I was just surprised.
"Yes."
So Hyunbyul knew about Lee Baekho.
She nodded, as if she had expected it.
"I knew it. I could see the crazy in his eyes."
"Wait, you knew who he was, and you still acted like that?"
"What's the problem? It doesn't matter how strong he is outside, his abilities are sealed here."
"Well, that's true, but…"
She's still a newbie.
I need to teach her before she makes a mistake.
"It's not always like that. There are skills you can use here."
I explained 'killing intent' to her.
"I understand the concept… that it's a connection between souls, that it amplifies your aura and transmits it to the other person… but…"
She understood the theory, but she couldn't grasp it.
"I don't know. A fear of death? You're saying it can affect you even in real life?"
Well, she wasn't wrong.
Fox's killing intent was just a form of pressure.
"Ugh, it's hard to explain."
"Maybe you just lack the vocabulary?"
What? I've read countless novels.
Well, I'm not as good as her.
"Ah, it's better to just experience it firsthand."
I wouldn't have suggested this to anyone else.
I was already mentally exhausted.
But…
'It's Hyunbyul.'
I could do this much for her.
"Let's do it."
"W-wait! I need to think about it—"
Think about what?
This is much faster and more accurate.
I unleashed my killing intent, hoping she wouldn't make any mistakes outside.
"…Ugh!"
Her reaction was immediate.
"S-stop…"
She was struggling, just like everyone else, except for Lee Baekho.
'He was fine…'
Right, he was immune to killing intent—
"Stop… it…!"
Ah…
I just wanted to give her a taste…
"….."
Damn it.
______________________
Was her first experience with killing intent that traumatic?
'I barely did anything…'
Even though I had only given her a taste, she was complaining of severe fatigue.
"But… I understand now… why it can affect you even in real life."
"Oh, I'm glad to hear—"
"But I'm going to be angry next time. If you do something like this without my permission."
"Understood."
"…Oppa, are you mad at me?"
"No, why?"
"Haa…"
What's wrong with her?
She mumbled something and then said she was going to rest because she had a headache.
But before she left, she asked a few questions.
The first one was this:
"Oppa, you know Bjorn Yandel, right?"
My heart sank.
What? Is she suspecting me too?
Thankfully, she wasn't.
"…I know him."
"Really? Then do you know if he's really an evil spirit?"
"Uh, well… I've never met him, so…"
"Hmm, I see."
She clicked her tongue, seemingly disappointed.
I cautiously asked,
"But… why are you asking about Bjorn Yandel?"
"Ah, it's for work. I need to know for sure if he's an evil spirit or not to proceed with my plan."
Her plan…
That's unsettling.
She wasn't an explorer, but a clerk.
[My next goal is to gain power.]
To find a way to return to Earth through power.
That sounded like a typical Hyunbyul plan.
But…
[I've recently found a powerful backer.]
Who was this 'powerful backer'?
If it was the Marquis…
"Hyunbyul."
"…Yes?"
"Who are you working for?"
She frowned at my serious tone.
"Oppa, I thought we agreed not to cross that line—"
"The situation has changed."
"…Yes?"
"I might accidentally kill you."
"...."
"So tell me. Who is it?"
She stared at me for a long time.
And then…
"Viscountess Peprok."
She sighed and answered.
It was an unexpected name.
I was relieved that it wasn't the Marquis or the Duke, but…
"…Viscountess Peprok?"
I never thought I would hear that name here.
"Yes, I'm working for her. It's a long story."
Ragna Ritanyel Peprok.
The librarian and mage.
One of the members of the 'friend group' I had joined in my newbie days, when Shabin Emure's information was invaluable.
"Is that all?"
"Yes."
I wanted to ask more, but it wasn't the right time.
I had confirmed that she wasn't working for the Marquis.
There was no reason for us to be enemies.
At least not now.
"By the way, oppa."
Hyunbyul placed her hand on the empty seat between us.
"You…"
"…Huh?"
"You crossed the line first."
Before I could even respond, she stood up.
"I'll see you next month. I'm too tired today."
She left the chat room.
I didn't need to stay any longer either, so I returned to reality.
And…
[03:07]
I collapsed onto the bed and rested for a while.
I wanted to log out and go to sleep…
But…
Flash!
I couldn't miss this.
-x-X-x-
As soon as the gathering began, the man, donning his Stag Antlers mask, stepped out into the hallway. He hurriedly made his way to the room where the Round Table was located.
Unlike usual, the Round Table was empty.
"Thankfully, I'm the first one."
Glancing around, the man approached a specific seat.
It was four seats to the left of the seat Lion always occupied.
Unlike the early days of the Round Table, now that there were empty seats, everyone sat with at least one seat between them.
Assuming all seven members were present, he could secure the second turn no matter what.
'The first turn is a bit troublesome…'
The quality of information shared in the first round often set the tone for the entire session.
'And besides, this seat is right next to him…'
Yes, the second turn was the most ideal.
The third or fourth seats weren't bad, but he would have to make direct eye contact with Lion.
The later turns were too much pressure.
Well, Clown always sat in the last seat because he enjoyed the attention.
'That's just his nature.'
He didn't know it, but the seat he had chosen was secretly the most popular among the members.
Maybe that's why…
"Oh! Stag Antlers? You're here today?"
Goblin Mask entered the room and greeted him, then sat down one seat away.
"Mind if I sit next to you?"
It was the seat that would be the third turn when the gathering began.
"By the way, did you have something urgent to attend to last time?"
Stag Antlers simply brushed off Goblin's question.
"Personal reasons."
"Really?"
It seemed like Goblin was just making small talk, as he didn't seem to care about his short answer.
Stag Antlers cautiously asked,
"Anything interesting happen?"
"…Huh?"
"Last session. I was wondering if there were any major incidents while I was gone…"
Stag Antlers' tone was unusually humble for someone addressing Goblin.
It was almost rude.
It was an unspoken rule of the Round Table not to disclose information from previous sessions to those who weren't present.
But…
'Maybe Goblin will tell me.'
After all, why had he rushed here?
He wanted to get a head start and gather some information before the other members arrived.
And Goblin was the first one he encountered.
He was in luck—
Step.
He heard footsteps from the doorway.
Another member had arrived.
'It's Fox.'
If she was here, she would probably stop Goblin from answering my question.
He sighed, but then…
"I overheard your conversation."
"….."
"Don't worry, nothing happened. Or rather, nothing could have happened."
"What do you mean?"
"Lion didn't attend the last session."
"Lion wasn't there…?"
"Yes. So Clown and Queen left after sharing their information, and the session ended there."
"Ah…"
"Don't do that again. Once someone breaks the rules, it's no longer a rule."
Her voice was laced with a hint of displeasure.
"…I'll be careful."
Fox's gaze shifted to Goblin as Stag Antlers readily agreed.
"You too, Goblin."
"Huh? W-why me?"
"Don't answer his questions. Or rather, be careful what you say."
"…Haha! You're so strict, Fox… Be careful… yes, be careful… Hahaha!"
Goblin laughed awkwardly, and Fox, after checking the empty seats, sat down in the fourth seat.
"C-Crescent Moon will be the first one to go, right?"
"If he's coming, that is. He doesn't seem to like the last seat."
"…Hmm, but Lion isn't skipping again, is he?"
"We'll find out if we wait."
"H-haha, right…"
Stag Antlers looked at Goblin and Fox, who were chatting, and felt a strange sense of dissonance.
Fox seemed to be comfortable with Goblin, while Goblin seemed to be uncomfortable with Fox.
But he didn't dwell on it.
He had more important things to think about.
'Lion's absence…'
In a way, it was a good thing.
He had been disappointed that he had to miss the last session, but it seemed like it wouldn't have made a difference anyway.
He hadn't missed out on anything important.
But one thing bothered him.
[Lion is Bjorn Yandel.]
Queen's words from the last session.
It had been dismissed as a false accusation, but it had been a hot topic for a while.
There were many circumstantial similarities between Lion and Bjorn Yandel.
'…Well, it's probably just a coincidence. There are too many differences for them to be the same person.'
First, Bjorn Yandel was only a 4th-grade explorer.
And Lion had joined the community about 20 years ago.
They couldn't be the same person.
But…
'What is it? This feeling that I'm missing something…'
Stag Antlers glanced at Goblin, who was talking to Fox.
"I wonder when Crescent Moon will be here. Clown and Queen will probably be late again."
"They'll be here when they're ready. But… Goblin, why do you only use honorifics with Queen?"
"Haha… Did I?"
Come to think of it, he was the one…
He was the one who first brought it up at the Round Table.
That Bjorn Yandel and Lion might be the same person?
His reasoning was that the timing of Bjorn Yandel's death was too coincidental…
But he had been ridiculed back then.
"I don't know… I just feel like I have to use honorifics with her… her title is 'Queen', after all…"
Stag Antlers interjected.
"Hey, Goblin."
"…Yes?"
"Do you still think Bjorn Yandel could be Lion?"
"Uh… suddenly?"
"Yeah, I'm just curious."
"Hmm…"
Goblin looked confused, but he answered.
"No, I don't think so anymore."
His answer was clear and firm.
Stag Antlers was convinced.
"I see… Well, it's impossible for someone who was summoned 22 years ago to be the same person."
"Huh? Ah… right, that's true…"
Stag Antlers tilted his head at his ambiguous response.
"…Hmm? Is there another reason?"
"Well… I don't think Bjorn Yandel is an evil spirit."
"Ah, that's why."
The news about Bjorn Yandel not being an evil spirit had spread throughout the city.
It was a strategic announcement by the royal family, and it was actually false.
So his reaction was understandable—
"No, that's not it either…"
What? That's not it either?
Stag Antlers looked at him expectantly, and Goblin, after glancing at Fox nervously, spoke.
"I can't say much… but Bjorn Yandel isn't an evil spirit. He can't be. Yes, I'm sure of that."
He then closed his mouth, refusing to answer any more questions, and Stag Antlers didn't press him further.
'…Come to think of it, Sven Parab was also on the expedition force.'
Maybe he had sensed something.
Evil spirits were relatively good at recognizing each other.
He couldn't ignore Goblin's judgment, especially since he had experienced it firsthand.
'So… Bjorn Yandel really isn't an evil spirit.'
Stag Antlers dismissed the issue.
The strange feeling he had been having had disappeared, and besides…
"You're all early."
Crescent Moon arrived and sat down in the first seat.
The other members soon followed.
"It's nice to see you all again."
Queen arrived fifth and sat down in her usual seat.
And…
"Pfft."
…Clown.
As soon as everyone except for Lion was seated, their gazes naturally turned towards the empty seat.
It was a ridiculous situation.
A group of powerful figures, waiting for one person to arrive?
"I hope he comes today."
Clown's wish was granted.
Step.
They heard footsteps from the hallway.
A faint sound, but it silenced the entire room.
Step.
Stag Antlers unconsciously tensed his shoulders.
It was strange.
Step.
It was just the sound of footsteps.
He couldn't even see him yet.
But why did he feel so much pressure?
He briefly wondered if Lion was using some kind of intimidation tactic…
But he knew that wasn't the case.
Step.
The footsteps themselves weren't special.
Anyone could make that sound.
But the reason everyone was silent…
Step.
…was because they knew.
Even if the sound was ordinary…
Step.
The owner of that sound wasn't.
Step.
The footsteps echoed through the hallway, and then he arrived.
"Pfft, you're here—"
Clown stood up to greet him, like a loyal subordinate, but Lion ignored him and walked towards the empty seat.
And…
"….."
…he sat down and rested his chin on his hand.
'…I have to be careful today.'
Stag Antlers gulped nervously.
He wasn't embarrassed.
He knew he wasn't the only one feeling this way.
"….."
"….."
Everyone could feel it.
______________________
The heavy silence made me want to lie down and take a nap.
'Ugh, I'm so sleepy…'
I rested my chin on my hand, stifling a yawn.
Should I have just skipped today?
I was exhausted, both physically and mentally.
'And why is it so quiet today?'
I had been waiting for them to start talking, but the silence continued.
"...."
"...."
What are they doing?
I thought they would bombard me with questions about my absence last time.
I finally spoke, unable to endure the silence any longer.
"How long…"
"...?"
"…are you going to keep doing this?"
"...!!"
I'm sleepy, let's just start the meeting.
Goblin quickly answered.
"Y-yes! W-we should start! T-then, C-crescent Moon will go first… I-I think…"
Hmm, I thought Fox would be the first one.
He seemed nervous, his voice trembling, but at least the attention shifted to Crescent Moon.
"…I should have chosen a different seat."
Crescent Moon sighed, seemingly burdened by the first turn, and then he began the meeting.
"I'll go first."
His information was about the fairy tribe.
Or rather, about Erwen.
He received a green light for revealing that the Blood Spirit Marquis had expressed her intention to leave the Pureblood Order.
For reference, the Pureblood Order was a special forces unit of the fairy tribe, and Erwen was currently on leave.
That's why she had said she would submit her resignation.
Thump, thump.
So the first piece of information was something I already knew.
"…The expedition force led by Bjorn Yandel was created with the intention of sacrificing them."
Stag Antlers, who was second, received a red light for revealing that the expedition force was a suicide mission.
Fox, Goblin, and I already knew.
He seemed flustered and tried again…
"…The royal family offered Bjorn Yandel a promotion in exchange for completing the mission."
He received a green light this time, but there was no feedback.
Normally, they would have commented on it, something like, 'So he'll become a Baron instead of a Viscount? And he can even pass down his title to his descendants!'
Come to think of it, it was the same with Crescent Moon's information.
'They're unusually quiet today.'
Well, the expedition force was something only we knew about. The others would have been shocked.
It was strange, but it wasn't important.
I was too tired to care.
Thump, thump.
So the second piece of information was also useless.
'I should have told Fox and Goblin beforehand. Then they would have received a red light too.'
I clicked my tongue, and then it was Goblin's turn. He was trembling as he spoke.
I thought he would talk about the expedition force, but he didn't.
Maybe it was because of Fox's warning.
Well, he could have at least shared something useful…
'It's just some boring internal affairs of the church…'
That was typical of Goblin.
He occasionally brought valuable information, but most of the time, the quality was low.
But he received a green light, so the turn passed.
'So the third one is also useless…'
Something was strange today.
Normally, they would have objected and asked for more information, even if it was a green light.
Thump, thump.
I didn't want to take the initiative, so I just let it slide.
Goblin was on our side now.
'Now it's Fox's turn.'
I wasn't expecting much from her either.
She had been with me in the labyrinth, and…
"…The large clans are planning a boycott. They're upset that the royal family created a special forces unit without consulting them."
That was something I had already been informed of.
Fox had been the Vice-Captain of a clan for a long time, so she had a wide network of contacts.
She was now sharing that information with me.
'So the fourth piece of information is also useless.'
I hope the next one is better.
Thump, thump.
I looked at Queen, and our eyes met.
But she seemed uncomfortable with my gaze.
Swoosh.
She quickly looked away and spoke in an uncharacteristically hesitant tone.
"…The GM unbanned Lee Baekho."
It was clearly the GM's doing.
He was trying to show me that he had fulfilled my request.
Damn it, just give me some information.
Thump, thump.
It was information that everyone except for me would receive a green light for, so the turn passed.
"…It's my turn. Pfft."
The sixth turn arrived quickly, perhaps because everyone was just sharing information without any banter.
Right, Clown was always the wild card.
I listened intently, despite my drowsiness.
But…
"You all know that the Dragonslayer, Regal Vagos, is dead…"
He started cautiously, but his information was also disappointing.
"Bjorn Yandel, that bastard, the royal family said he was on a secret mission for them… That was all a lie."
It wasn't just useless, it was troublesome.
'Damn it, now I have to explain this to Fox and Goblin. They believed the royal family's story.'
Anyway, Clown's information received a green light.
And then it was my turn.
"….."
"….."
All eyes were on me.
It was a familiar pattern.
There was an unspoken rule at the Round Table ever since I joined.
If they brought interesting information, I would evaluate it and reward them with information of my own.
So, what about this time?
Did they really bring something interesting?
Thud.
I placed my hand on the jewel and spoke.
Normally, I would have filtered my words and softened my tone…
But I was annoyed.
"Everything you just said…"
I was being 100% sincere.
I had endured countless yawns and listened patiently to their stories.
"It was all garbage."
"I would have been better off sleeping."
The jewel glowed as soon as I took my hand off it.
Swaaaaaaaaaa!
It was strange.
"So you really didn't know?"
"….."
"The green light means…"
I was bored.
-x-X-x-
The green light that had momentarily flashed had long since faded, but a heavy silence lingered in the air.
"...."
"...."
They looked like students who had just been scolded by a strict teacher.
It was a pitiful sight, but for some reason, it only made me more irritated.
'I should have just stayed home and slept.'
They were all so complacent.
How could they be so ignorant?
I didn't come here to listen to this garbage.
'Ugh, I'm so sleepy…'
Maybe I was just being irritable because I was tired.
No, that had to be it.
If I were in my normal state, I wouldn't be this easily annoyed, and even if I was, I wouldn't let my emotions get the better of me.
Thump, thump.
I was starting to regret coming here.
Should I just end this and go home?
Hmm, that would be a shame…
Thud.
I finally made my decision and spoke.
"One more time."
Right, let's give them another chance.
Maybe they'll surprise me.
"I'll give you another opportunity."
I glanced around, and the members flinched, avoiding my gaze.
It was a satisfying sight.
They would be more likely to reveal their hidden information if they felt pressured.
And…
'Thankfully, no one's objecting.'
They had naturally skipped my turn.
'It was all garbage.'
That one statement had allowed me to skip an entire round.
'Now I'm feeling a bit better.'
As I was thinking that…
One of the members stepped forward.
"…Then let's go in reverse order this time. Pfft."
Clown, still chuckling despite the tense atmosphere, looked at me.
I had some expectations.
There was a hint of determination in his voice.
He must have been confident in the information he had prepared.
"But before we begin…"
He looked at the other members and said,
"I hope no one's planning to freeload this time."
At first, I thought he was targeting me…
But I soon realized he was giving them a warning.
He was telling them to bring their A-game, just like he was.
"...."
No one responded to his warning.
But he must have taken their silence as a yes.
He placed his hand on the jewel.
And…
"Noark is planning to invade the city."
"...!"
The moment the green light flashed…
The members' eyes widened in shock.
I was also surprised, even though I didn't show it.
"I-invade the city?"
He wasn't talking about the war in the labyrinth, but an actual invasion of the city.
It meant that the explorers who had escaped to the outside world were planning to attack Lafdonia.
"…Why?"
Fox asked, her voice trembling with confusion.
"You said the outside world was safe. Why would they do that?"
It was a valid question, and I had been wondering the same thing.
Why were they still in the labyrinth, even though they could escape to the outside world?
And now they were planning to invade the city?
'…Is the situation outside that bad? Or do they have a reason to destroy the royal family?'
There were many questions, but Clown didn't answer.
"Well… my turn is over. Pfft."
Right, that's enough for one turn.
He glanced at me and then leaned back in his chair.
It was Queen's turn.
"...."
She remained silent, her expression troubled.
She seemed to be deep in thought.
Clown seized the opportunity and taunted her.
"What are you thinking about? Don't tell me you're planning to skip your turn again?"
"…I was just thinking."
She placed her hand on the jewel, her voice curt.
Clown's words had spurred her into action.
'Nice assist.'
I mentally gave him a thumbs-up and waited.
"This is something I only recently confirmed."
What is she talking about? Why is the introduction so long—
"The Master of the Round Table is Auril Gabis."
…What?
______________________
The Master of the Round Table.
The one who had gathered promising explorers and created this secret gathering.
I had suspected it.
That the old man I met in the past was Auril Gabis.
It all started in the past.
[We'll need to add more authority to implement the rule you suggested.]
I had worked with him to create a system similar to the Round Table in the community 22 years ago.
Of course, it could have been just a coincidence. It wasn't a particularly unique idea, anyone could have come up with it.
But the real coincidence was something else.
'They act the same.'
Auril Gabis had created this spiritual world and subtly helped promising explorers grow stronger.
Just like the Master of the Round Table.
"W-what? H-he's… Auril Gabis?"
Fox, who had always been loyal to the Master, was speechless.
But Queen's answer was firm.
"That's right."
"S-so he's the one who brought us here…?"
"That's what we've confirmed."
Fox couldn't say anything more.
She knew that Queen was backed by the GM.
Swaaaaaaaaaaa.
Queen removed her hand from the jewel as soon as the green light faded and glanced at Clown.
It was amusing.
She was checking on Clown before even looking at me.
It seemed like her pride had been hurt.
'They're a good match.'
Okay, I should try to instigate a fight between them whenever I get the chance.
'The Master of the Round Table is Auril Gabis…'
It was shocking, even though I had suspected it.
But I decided to think about the old man later.
My head wasn't working properly right now.
'Let's just focus on absorbing the information…'
As I was setting my new goals…
…the turn passed.
"It's your turn, Fox."
It was the third turn.
Maybe it was because the previous two pieces of information were so shocking…
But I was more focused now, despite my drowsiness.
'This is more like it.'
Maybe people need a bit of stimulation to stay motivated.
They were revealing good information now that they felt pressured.
Ah, but I hope Fox doesn't reveal anything about the expedition force…
'…She'll probably talk about something else.'
I watched her with a mixture of worry and anticipation.
"The Guild Master of the Explorer's Guild, Iriya Adnus, sent a saboteur to sabotage the royal expedition."
If it weren't for this situation, there would have been no reason for her to reveal this information.
Damn it… this is my fault.
'Well, it's not a big deal.'
I tried to be positive.
There was no guarantee that the Guild Master was on our side.
And maybe this would lead to new information.
'Hmm… maybe she's even thinking about that.'
I focused on observing their reactions.
Clown seemed surprised, while Queen's expression was unreadable.
Goblin glanced at Fox with concern, and…
"Adnus… sent a saboteur…?"
Stag Antlers, who seemed to be from the royal faction, was the most surprised.
So they didn't know anything about it.
"Well, it's a green light, but…"
Crescent Moon, who had been silent until now, spoke cautiously.
He was looking for any objections.
But…
"Pfft, well… it's a bit lacking, but…"
"The previous information was also something no one else knew."
Fox's turn ended, barely passing the minimum requirement.
Now it was Goblin's turn.
"…I-it's my turn now…"
Please, don't say anything stupid.
"Why are you so nervous? Pfft. No one's expecting anything from you."
"Well, that's just your opinion, isn't it?"
"Pfft, are you saying Queen is different?"
"…Even a squirrel has a nut hidden in its cheek during winter."
It was an ambiguous statement.
Goblin seemed to have taken it as a compliment.
"Pfft, this guy has no shame. Anyway, just get on with it."
"Ah, y-yes… A d-divine message… a divine message was received, but—"
"…Another divine message? Does the Goddess of the Leathlas Church have that much to say?"
"I-it's from the Tovera Church! Not our church!"
"Hmm? The Tovera Church?"
"Yes! The Tovera Church! They're known for rarely giving out divine messages—"
"Just tell us the content."
Goblin sighed and got to the point.
"The Sage of Eternal Life has returned."
One sentence.
It received a green light, but the reactions were lukewarm.
"…Is that all?"
"Yes… that was the message."
Clown chuckled, and Queen asked a follow-up question.
"Was there any commentary from the Cardinal or the High Priests? That would help us evaluate the information."
"…No, there wasn't. I-I only managed to… overhear the message itself…"
Goblin sounded flustered.
He hadn't expected this reaction.
Well, this round was a bit unusual.
Normally, any divine message would be accepted without question.
'…Should I help him out?'
I didn't know what he would say if I left him alone.
I decided to intervene.
"Pfft, it seems like everyone thinks it's a bit lacking. How about you try again with something else—"
"The Sage of Eternal Life…"
"...Yes?"
It was a tactic only I could use at this gathering.
The…
"So he's back…"
…Lion Style.
Fifth Form, Interest Judgment.
"This is interesting."
What are you going to do about it?
"...!!"
[Dungeon and Stone] is a team game, after all.
-x-X-x-
A heavy silence fell over the Round Table.
"...."
"...."
The question of the value of Goblin's information had long since vanished, and everyone was now lost in thought.
It was a side effect of the Interest Judgment.
"The Sage of Eternal Life… who could he be…?"
Well, I didn't know either.
Auril Gabis came to mind, but I wasn't sure.
But this way, they would investigate it for me.
"…Pfft, I'll have to look into it as soon as we're out of here."
"Let me know if you find any clues. I'll pay you handsomely."
"I'll do that. But only if you promise to do the same for me."
"I promise."
Good, I'm counting on you two.
'So the Goblin issue is resolved?'
Hmm, it seems so.
Clown's eyes were practically sparkling.
"Pfft, you never know what's going to happen, do you? To think Goblin would hit the jackpot!"
Goblin nodded awkwardly, overwhelmed by Clown's praise.
"Ah… y-yes… that's right… Hahaha…"
He seemed to be in disbelief.
"…Well, it's my turn now."
The commotion died down, and it was Stag Antlers' turn.
I had planned to maintain my poker face, but it was difficult this time.
"Viscountess Ragna Peprok is Marquis Terserion's illegitimate daughter."
I had heard that name twice today.
Once from Hyunbyul…
And now from Stag Antlers.
Swaaaaaaaaaa!
The jewel emitted a green light, and no one objected.
"…So that's why the Marquis has been supporting her in the political arena."
Crescent Moon commented, and Queen mumbled softly,
"This is getting interesting…"
"…Is it really that important that she's his illegitimate daughter?"
Goblin cautiously asked, and Queen chuckled.
"Well, it's a weapon that can be used against him. He's practically the second most powerful person in the kingdom."
"Ah… I see…"
It seemed like Queen had another reason for finding it interesting, but I couldn't ask her directly.
So I focused on something else.
'Ragna is the Marquis's daughter… No wonder she always seemed so wealthy.'
It was more shocking than the information revealed by Clown and Queen.
Not just because of Ragna, but also because of Hyunbyul.
'Damn it… this is getting complicated.'
I would have to investigate further, but for now, I could only hope…
That Ragna wasn't a close ally of the Marquis.
'I have to get Hyunbyul out of there if it's the worst-case scenario.'
Stag Antlers' turn ended, and the attention shifted to Crescent Moon.
Hmm, what will he talk about?
The fairy tribe again—
"Genesis Artifact."
…Huh?
"The dwarves are trying to find a way to create a new Genesis Artifact. And they've made some progress."
…Really?
"What? Create one? Is that even possible?"
Queen stood up abruptly.
That told me one thing.
'She and the GM are desperate to return to Earth.'
Clown, on the other hand, was indifferent.
He was a bit surprised, but he seemed to be taking it in stride.
Hmm, does he not want to go back?
Maybe he's enjoying his life as a collector of toys.
"So how do they plan to do it?"
"I've given you the clue. The rest is up to you."
"Wait a minute, that's too vague! You're not even sure if it's possible! You're just saying they've made some progress?!"
Crescent Moon reluctantly revealed more information at Queen's insistence.
"Countless rift stones."
"…..?"
"And even more blood."
"….."
"The dwarves believe that if those two conditions are met, they can create a new Genesis Artifact."
What the hell, they're like mad scientists.
Forget about whether it would actually work, the idea itself was impressive.
'Create one…'
Is that even possible?
They're supposed to be artifacts that have existed since the creation of the world.
'…I'll think about it later.'
I shook off my thoughts.
The other members were still lost in thought, but it wouldn't last long.
Their gazes soon turned towards me.
"….."
"….."
Unlike before, there was no fear in their eyes.
It seemed like my 'Interest Judgment' on Goblin had had a significant impact.
'So, what should I do…?'
I didn't hesitate.
If you want to catch fish, you go to the river.
So…
"The one who used the nickname 'Elfnunna' on Stone E-ven."
I threw out a bait.
"He's already in this world."
I was curious too.
What was so special about this nickname that Lee Baekho and the GM were so obsessed with it?
______________________
Swaaaaaaaaaa!
The jewel emitted a green light, and the members all started talking at once.
"Elf Noona… you mean that person? The one who's most likely to clear the original version?"
"Pfft, so he's been summoned. Half of the rumors were true, then."
I knew what Clown was referring to.
The rumors about Elf Noona having cleared the original version and being summoned to this world.
And that he had received a special reward for it.
It was a ridiculous rumor.
'Special reward…?'
What a joke.
I almost died in the Goblin Cave right after I arrived.
"…Half?"
"We don't know for sure if he actually cleared the original version."
Maybe he realized it was impossible and adjusted the difficulty later.
Clown shrugged.
He didn't seem to care much about Elf Noona.
Unlike Queen, SoulQueens.
"….."
She didn't say a word.
She just sat there, frozen in place.
Her silence spoke volumes.
'Okay, so the GM will hear about this…'
He would contact me soon.
He would probably try to arrange a private meeting and ask me about Elf Noona.
And when that happened, I would…
Gather information from him.
"Pfft, that was an interesting story. Thank you."
"Lion… have you ever met him—"
"Stag Antlers! That's rude!"
"…."
Clown, my loyal spokesperson, intervened before I could even say anything.
And…
"Pfft, I guess we're done for this round?"
He chuckled, looking at the other members.
But did he just want to end the session because he didn't have any more information?
"Y-yes… I-I'm done…"
"Me too."
"Same here."
Goblin, Fox, and Crescent Moon all declared their withdrawal, and the session ended.
I left the room without looking back.
"Phew…"
I returned to Lee Hansu's room.
I felt exhausted now that the Round Table session was over.
It felt like I had spent a week in the community.
'I should have just stayed home and slept.'
I sat down at my computer desk.
And I moved the cursor to the logout button.
Normally, I would have browsed the forums…
But…
'Let's just go back.'
I just wanted to rest.
Click, click.
The screen flashed white, and the space around me distorted.
「Character is being transferred to Lafdonia.」
I opened my eyes and found myself in my room on the 2nd floor of Erwen's mansion.
Amelia was there again.
"You're back early."
"Well, it just happened."
Geez, she's always guarding me whenever I go to the community.
It's reassuring and embarrassing at the same time.
"Alright, get some rest. You look tired. I'll tell Erwen not to wake you up tomorrow."
"Ah, thank you."
"….."
Amelia left the room, turning off the lights before closing the door.
It was the perfect atmosphere for sleeping.
'…I was going to organize my thoughts before going to bed…'
But the moment I lay down on the pillow, exhaustion washed over me like a tidal wave.
I felt like I was going to die.
I wonder if Lee Baekho is okay?
"….."
I fell asleep.
______________________
A dark room, the moonlight blocked by thick curtains.
"Ah, that feels good."
The blonde man sat up in bed and checked the door.
'Okay, no signs of intrusion.'
Whew, I can't believe I was unbanned.
I was caught off guard.
I usually prepare everything before going to the community.
"Ugh, my head…"
He checked the front door and then sat down on the edge of the bed, feeling the exhaustion.
He wanted to lie down and sleep, but…
"I'm so tired that I wouldn't even notice if someone kidnapped me in my sleep…"
He forced himself to stay awake and opened his subspace pocket.
He took out a metal coffin.
'It's been a while since I last used this in the city.'
No. 1,577 Coffin of Slumber.
It not only increased HP regeneration speed, but it was also incredibly durable, making it a perfect substitute for a sleeping bag in the labyrinth.
'Right, I'll sleep in here tonight.'
He got into the coffin and closed it from the inside. It felt ridiculous, sleeping in a coffin when he had a comfortable bed right next to him, but he couldn't be too careful. Ｒ₳ŊоꞖʧ
Prepare for every possibility.
That was his rule.
'....'
The coffin was uncomfortable, but he felt at ease, knowing he was safe.
He closed his eyes and organized his thoughts.
One scene kept replaying in his mind.
[Not really.]
His answer to the question of whether he could kill him.
[I think I can do it.]
He had sensed it the moment he heard those words.
Just like when he had realized that he was lying about pressing the button.
Those words were the truth.
'…He's a tough one.'
He still felt a chill run down his spine.
But he couldn't help but smile as he remembered Lion's killing intent.
"Ah, I need to sleep, but this is driving me crazy…"
He hadn't expected this.
It made him want him even more.
Elf Noona.
'I can't wait for next month.'
He fell asleep.