When I woke up again, it was the middle of the night. I decided to go back to sleep since there was nothing to do at this hour.
I thought I had slept for two days straight…
"…Three days?"
At first, I thought Amelia was joking.
I was still exhausted, even after sleeping for three days straight. Honestly, I had forced myself to wake up even though I could have slept for longer…
'But it's really been three days.'
"It's good that you finally woke up. If you hadn't, I would have had to wake you up myself. I'm tired of calming Erwen down."
"…Where's Erwen?"
"She went out."
"Out?"
"She said she was going to the sanctuary. It seems like things aren't going smoothly."
She didn't mention the subject, but I didn't have to ask.
It was probably about her leaving the Pureblood Order.
She had received a lot of support from the fairy tribe, so she would have to give up a lot to regain her freedom.
Like the 'Divine Tree Bow', for example.
Or the money she had used to buy this mansion.
'…Well, the real problem is the 'Pureblood' itself.'
The fairy 'Pureblood' was a kind of racial secret.
Only one fairy could inherit it per generation, and the inheritor's 'Affinity with Nature' stat would skyrocket. That's how Erwen was able to form a contract with the Spirit King.
'I need to help her with this. I can't just leave her to deal with it alone.'
I suddenly regretted wasting so much time sleeping.
It hadn't even been a month since we returned from Ice Rock, but we didn't have time to rest.
But…
Rumble!
"…There's food in the kitchen."
Right, let's eat first.
______________________
After filling my stomach, which had been growling for three days, I started organizing my thoughts.
Lee Baekho, the GM, Hyunbyul, Ragna, Auril Gabis, and all the information I had gathered from the Round Table…
I excused myself and went to my room, spending hours trying to make sense of it all.
'Ugh… my head is going to explode.'
I felt like a student who hadn't done his homework.
I had so many things to do, but I didn't know where to start.
'…Let's prioritize them like quests.'
I forced myself to rank them, and my mind felt a bit clearer.
So, the quest I had to complete today was…
"Amelia, how's the clan registration going?"
Finalize the clan registration.
"The paperwork is done. We just have to go to the guild and register our names."
I had considered reviving my old clan, but it had been disbanded after I was declared dead, so the process would be complicated. It was easier to just create a new one. ŕᴀ₦ＯᛒÊȿ
It was a bit of a shame.
Older clans had certain advantages.
'Well, I can just use my noble title to pressure them later.'
Negotiating with the guild was one of my specialties.
I got dressed and was about to leave when Amelia handed me an iron helmet.
"Wear this. It'll cause a commotion if you go out like that."
"…Right."
I put on the helmet and left the house with Amelia.
"It's been a while since we last went out together during the day."
Hmm, has it?
Come to think of it, the last time was when we went to the auction house to buy the Vol-Herchan essence and then visited the art museum.
I hadn't been able to freely roam the city since returning to this time period.
"Ah, there it is."
The guild branch wasn't far from our house.
We took a number and waited, and when it was our turn, I showed the clerk my ID card.
And…
"B-B-B-B… H-huh!"
The clerk started hyperventilating, so we were escorted to a private room on the 2nd floor.
The branch manager rushed in and personally handled the remaining paperwork.
I felt a strange mix of emotions as I looked at the clan roster.
Leader: Bjorn Yandel.
Vice-Captain: Vacant.
Member: Vacant.
Member: Emily Raines.
Member: Ainar Frenelin.
Member: Auyen Lokrob.
It was the bare minimum to register a clan.
Erwen couldn't join yet because she hadn't officially left the Pureblood Order.
"P-please come again!"
We left the guild after receiving the branch manager's 'respectful' treatment and headed towards a nearby restaurant.
I was already hungry.
"Amelia."
"You're supposed to call me Emily outside."
Ah, right.
I'm so hungry that I can't think straight.
"What were you going to say?"
"Ah, it's nothing special. I was just curious. Why did you leave the Vice-Captain position vacant?"
I hadn't had a chance to ask him about it.
Why?
"Sometimes, haste ruins everything."
"…Huh?"
"Tell her that you left it vacant on purpose. It'll calm her down."
"…Uh…"
What did I just hear?
"…You left it vacant for Erwen?"
Amelia averted her gaze, as if embarrassed.
And…
"…She seemed upset."
She mumbled softly and then changed the subject.
"What about the clan name?"
"Huh?"
"Is there a reason why you chose that name? I heard it's an ancient language, meaning 'pack of beasts'."
So you also recognized it as an ancient language.
I guess this is a success?
I thought for a moment and then decided to tell her the truth.
I called her closer and whispered in her ear.
"It's not an ancient language, it's Korean."
Amelia flinched and then whispered back.
"Korean…? You mean… your native language?"
"Yes."
I nodded and then told her the meaning.
"It's a spirit of working together for a better future."
"…Hmm?"
"That's the meaning of 'Anabada'."
For reference, it would also be our clan's motto for the time being.
We were desperate.
______________________
After lunch, Amelia left to run some errands.
I knew where she was going.
She was going to visit her sister's workplace and stare at her from afar.
She couldn't even bring herself to talk to her.
'…Well, it's her choice.'
I had finished my quest for the day, but I didn't go home.
I had something else to do.
Clang!
I opened the door and entered a restaurant.
It was half-full.
The 2nd floor was an inn, and the 1st floor was a restaurant during the day and a bar at night.
"Welcome! Table for one?"
A young waitress with a bright smile led me to a table.
"What can I get for you?"
"Something with a lot of meat. I'm starving."
"Yes, sir. Please wait a mo—"
"Wait, is the owner not here today?"
"The owner's wife is pregnant, so the priest told her to be careful. She's not coming to work these days."
…Is she sick?
I was a bit worried, but I quickly corrected her.
"I meant the male owner."
"Ah! Mr. Siegfried will be here soon. In about 30 minutes? He's always late, so I can't be sure!"
Okay, so I just have to wait.
"Thank you."
I gave her a tip and waited at the table.
And then, when I was about to order another dish after finishing my meal…
Clang!
The door opened, and the person I had been waiting for arrived.
"You're here, Mr. Siegfried!"
"Yeah, anything happen?"
"You have a visitor."
"…A visitor?"
Bear, who had been talking to the waitress, looked around and then froze as soon as our eyes met.
But he quickly recovered.
"Myla, no more customers. Tell the remaining customers to leave after they finish their meals."
"…Yes?"
"And you too. Go home with the chef after the customers leave."
"Huh?"
"Make sure no one comes near my table."
He gave the waitress a series of orders and then approached me.
"…It's really you. Bjorn Yandel."
"It's been a while, Abman."
He sat down across from me without hesitation.
And…
"...."
"...."
Silence.
He spoke first.
"I… heard the news."
Damn, this is awkward.
"I don't understand what happened, but it seems like you went through a lot."
"Ah, yeah… I did…"
"Have you… met the others?"
"Everyone except for Misha."
"I see…"
He seemed to be deep in thought, and then he continued.
"I went to your house a few times after hearing that you were alive. But there were too many people, and you never came out, so I just left."
"You should have knocked. I would have let you in."
"Well, I changed my mind."
"...?"
There was a strange nuance in his voice.
It wasn't just my imagination.
So…
"Abman, I didn't mean to deceive you."
I had to make that clear first.
"I couldn't show myself for two years and six months because—"
"Stop."
"...?"
"Bjorn, you're misunderstanding something. I'm not angry at you. Of course, I would be lying if I said I didn't feel betrayed… but that's not what this is about."
He drew a firm line and then took my glass and drank from it before continuing.
"I just don't want to hear it."
"...."
"Why you disappeared. You might be involved in something dangerous. And besides, it's none of my business anymore."
My heart clenched.
"None of your business…?"
"I'm sorry, but I have to make this clear. If you came here to ask me to rejoin your team, it's impossible."
It's like being rejected before even confessing.
I was more curious than hurt.
"It's not because of your current clan, is it?"
"No, it's not."
"Can I ask why?"
He sighed deeply and then spoke.
"The day I heard you were alive… my wife asked me if I was going to see you. She was worried."
"I see…"
"You know, Bjorn, two years and six months is a long time. Long enough to change an explorer's mindset."
He continued in a melancholic tone.
"So… what I'm trying to say is… I can't go back to how things were. I don't think I'll ever see my child get married if I keep exploring with you."
"I… I understand…"
I let go of my last shred of hope.
Well, I didn't really have any hope to begin with.
That's why I hadn't classified this visit as a recruitment quest.
I couldn't ask him to join a clan that might end up fighting the royal family.
Especially not a married man with a child.
"…I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize. Let's just drink."
That was the real reason I came here.
"What? Can't we drink together unless we're exploring the labyrinth?"
"…Of course not."
He raised his glass, and we chatted idly, drinking and reminiscing about the past.
The sun set, and night fell.
We laughed, we argued, and we even had a serious conversation.
"…It's getting late."
"It's just nighttime."
"My wife is waiting for me."
"Then… I can't stop you."
"I'm sorry. If my wife wasn't pregnant, I could have stayed longer…"
…Pregnant?
My mind went blank, but I understood.
'They're having another child.'
I felt a strange mix of emotions.
I wasn't there for the birth of their first child either. We had joked about me being the godfather…
"It's raining. Take this. I have to clean up."
"…Ah, thank you."
I took the raincoat he offered and stepped outside.
Pitter-patter, pitter-patter.
The heavy rain poured down.
'I'm not sad…'
Maybe it's because I drank too much.
I felt a pang of loneliness, as if I had lost something precious.
But it couldn't be helped.
Splash, splash.
I walked through the rain.
Splash, splash.
My steps were heavy, my body swaying slightly from the alcohol.
And as I walked…
[Bjorn Yandel.]
His last words echoed in my mind.
[Move forward. Don't look back.]
What does he mean by 'look back'?
[You can go anywhere you want.]
Why do they all think I'm so special?
I don't understand, but I kept walking.
Splash, splash—
Reciting my to-do list for tomorrow.
-x-X-x-
The next morning, I woke up with a hangover.
I reached for the water bottle on the nightstand without even opening my eyes.
And then I took a big gulp…
It tasted strangely sweet.
As if someone had added honey to it.
'…Ugh, at least it's refreshing.'
I snuggled deeper into the blanket and then reluctantly got out of bed.
The first thing I saw was a letter folded neatly on the nightstand.
[I'm heading to the sanctuary, so I'll be out for a while. Don't worry too much, it seems like the resignation issue will be resolved smoothly. Ah, and… please tell me if you're having a hard time! Okay?]
[P.S. …I heard you left the first member slot vacant on purpose. Thank you, I really appreciate it.]
[P.S.2. Ah, and it's today, right? Be careful!]
[Your first companion, Erwen.]
So Erwen went to the sanctuary.
We could have talked if she had come back earlier yesterday.
Damn it, why did I drink so much?
"...."
I sat there for a while, trying to sober up, and then I tried to remember what had happened after I left the bar with Bear.
I remembered coming home and being greeted by Erwen and Amelia.
'And I think they helped me up to the 2nd floor…'
Maybe it was because I was exhausted and drunk?
I vaguely remembered having a conversation with them, but I couldn't remember the details.
Well, I must not have done anything stupid.
I would have remembered if I had.
"You're awake."
"Yeah, just now."
"Get up and wash up. We're going to the Imperial City today."
"…Alright."
"I'm leaving now, so take care of things here."
"Okay."
I heard Amelia going downstairs, and I went to the bathroom to wash up and get ready.
I had to dress formally for today's quest.
"…Tsk, I knew it."
I finished showering and was putting on my suit when Amelia appeared out of nowhere and helped me get dressed.
I was a bit surprised.
"Why are you so good at this?"
"…Who do you think bought you this suit?"
"Ah… right, you bought it."
It seemed like she had learned how to dress me properly while shopping for the suit. Amelia was surprisingly meticulous.
"You're all set. Now hurry up and go. The carriage is here."
"I'll be going then. See you later."
"…Take care."
I left the house and boarded the carriage that was waiting for me. It took me to the military transfer station, and then I was teleported to the Imperial City.
'This is so convenient… except for the slight motion sickness.'
Anyway, another carriage was waiting for me at the station, and I boarded it.
It soon arrived at my destination.
'This place isn't even exciting anymore.'
The Palace of Glory.
A small ceremony would be held here today, and my quest was related to that ceremony.
"Greetings, Viscount Yandel. I am Mia Arvelto, the Head Butler. Welcome to the palace."
I followed the guide inside, and we entered a grand hall.
The same hall where I had made my return speech.
"It's empty."
"The ceremony hasn't started yet. The nobles will be arriving soon."
Well, it wouldn't take long.
Even if they all came, it would only fill the front rows.
"…This way, please."
I was escorted to a room and briefed on the ceremony procedures by the Head Butler.
And after a while…
Knock, knock.
Someone knocked on the door.
It was an old man I had never met before.
But the guide recognized him and looked surprised.
"…Greetings, Duke. What brings you here…?"
"I just wanted to have a word with the guest of honor. If you're not busy, can you excuse us for a moment?"
"…I'll be waiting outside."
The guide bowed respectfully and left the room, and then the old man and I were finally alone.
"It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Duke Keallunus."
So it was him.
"I'm Bjorn, son of Yandel."
I introduced myself formally.
But then…
"That's wrong."
What?
"...?"
I frowned, and he chuckled.
"You're Bjorn Yandel, not Bjorn, son of Yandel. You're a member of our family now."
"...."
"I know your casual tone was officially approved by the previous King, but you should start acting like a proper noble now."
"...."
"Remember, you're not just someone's son. You're not just a barbarian. You're Viscount Bjorn Yandel of Lafdonia."
"...."
"Ah, should I call you Baron now? And your posture is terrible."
He patted my shoulder.
I felt a bit offended.
Now that I'm shorter, even old men are patting my shoulder.
"Thank you for the advice. But you didn't come here just to greet me, did you…?"
I got straight to the point.
But he seemed surprised by my bluntness.
"…What? Haha, hahahaha!"
"...."
"Ahem… Don't misunderstand. I wasn't trying to insult you. I was just surprised."
I understand.
Nobles love their formalities.
He probably wasn't used to people getting straight to the point.
"Anyway… to answer your question, you're right. I didn't come here just to greet you. I have a few questions for you."
Ugh, he's doing it again.
He could have just said, "I have a question."
Just like me.
"What is it?"
"...."
"…Are you hard of hearing?"
I asked cautiously, and he seemed to snap out of his daze.
"My apologies. I was lost in thought. Or rather… I honestly didn't realize you were done talking."
"Ah, I see. So what's your question?"
He finally got to the point.
It seemed like he had finally learned how to communicate with me.
"I'll be brief. You're not the type to be interested in a noble's life. Then why did you choose to be promoted?"
It wasn't brief at all, but it was the question I had been waiting for.
[…The royal family offered Bjorn Yandel a promotion in exchange for completing the mission.]
Stag Antlers had revealed that information at the Round Table, but the 'promotion' wasn't the only reward the royal family had offered.
A large sum of money, enough to build a mansion.
Two 3rd-grade essences.
And a Double Numbered Item.
I had been given four options, and I had chosen the 'promotion' after careful consideration.
The reason was simple.
I could obtain the other three with my own power…
And the promotion was much more useful for my survival.
"I want to hear your true intentions. Why did you choose to be promoted?"
What a strange old man.
He's asking about my 'true intentions' after just meeting me?
I chuckled and answered.
"Because more wives are always better!"
I deliberately raised my voice, but he just frowned.
"Wives…?"
Is he really hard of hearing?
"Yes, wives! A Baron can have three wives!"
His eyes narrowed.
'Is he serious?'
That's what his eyes were saying.
But he couldn't refute me because he wasn't sure.
Burp—
I burped in his face.
______________________
"Ah, sorry. I ate too much this morning."
I quickly apologized, but he didn't seem to care.
He just mumbled, as if he understood.
"Right… you do have a lot of women around you."
To be precise, female companions.
There were countless rumors and scandals circulating in the city, probably because we were living together…
Anyway.
"So, is your curiosity satisfied?"
"Halfway there. I have one more question."
"Ask away."
Did he enjoy my barbarian communication style?
He asked bluntly,
"Are you on the Marquis's side?"
It was a short question, but an important one.
So I had to confirm something first.
"You're talking about the Prime Minister, right?"
"Yes. You spent a lot of time with him while you were missing."
"…That's true."
It was a loaded question.
The official story was that Bjorn Yandel, who was presumed dead, had been working on various secret missions for the Marquis for the past two years and six months.
That's why they had announced that he was an evil spirit.
But…
'I didn't know the Duke was also in the dark…'
I felt a strange sense of unease.
"I've read all the documents about your missions. You've done a lot. And the information is accurate. At first, I thought there might be some kind of deal, but it seems like the missions themselves were real…"
They even fabricated the documents?
With such meticulous detail?
'He told me it would take two months to prepare the documents…'
Is that even possible?
I had a new question, but I focused on the conversation with the Duke.
I had to answer this question first.
"I'm not his subordinate."
"…Then what's your relationship with him?"
"We're friends. We help each other out when we're in trouble."
The Duke's expression softened, as if he had been hoping for that answer.
"Friends… That's an interesting word. You're smarter than I thought. And you have good instincts."
He then asked,
"So… does that mean we can be friends too?"
He extended his hand, not even waiting for my answer. I wiped my sweaty palms on my thighs and shook his hand.
"Of course. The more friends, the better."
Well, real friends don't shake hands, but…
______________________
Duke Keallunus.
He was practically the third most powerful person in the kingdom, after the King and the Marquis.
He didn't hold a position of authority like the Marquis, but his family's influence was immense.
They sponsored dozens of clans, including several large ones.
And one of his sons was a Mage Tower Master.
'Friends with the Duke…'
It was an unexpected situation, but not a bad one.
We weren't really friends.
He had only offered me his friendship to prevent me from siding with the Marquis.
I would maintain a mutually beneficial relationship with him.
At least until I didn't need it anymore.
"It's almost time. I'll be going now. See you later."
"Okay."
The Duke chatted with me until the ceremony began and then left. Most of it was just small talk, but there was one interesting topic.
He said that the expedition force had probably survived because of a conflict between the Rose Knights and Noark's forces.
'I wonder if he was testing me…'
I couldn't tell what his true intentions were, but one thing was certain.
The royal family's Intelligence Department was interpreting the situation as I had hoped.
'What about the Marquis…?'
I hadn't seen him since the victory parade.
This would be our first meeting since then.
"Viscount Yandel."
Right, it's showtime.
I stood in front of the door, waiting for my cue.
And then the doors opened.
Step, step.
The Palace of Glory, which had been empty two hours ago, was now filled with people.
Well, the first two rows, at least.
Step, step.
It was different from the victory parade.
The hall wasn't filled to capacity, there was no majestic music, and no soldiers marching behind me.
It was a much smaller event.
But…
Step, step.
It would be wrong to call it 'small'.
Everyone here was a noble.
"It's been a while since we last gathered like this."
"I was surprised to receive the summons. To think Viscount Bjorn Yandel would be promoted…"
"Haha, this is actually my first time receiving a summons for a promotion ceremony."
"Well, you haven't been a noble for long."
"It's been a while… but yes, promotion ceremonies are rare."
The nobles whispered as I walked past them.
Some seemed to be enjoying the rare event, but others weren't.
"…A mere barbarian."
Some looked down on me.
"He's just lucky."
Some were envious.
And…
"I can't wait for this to be over."
Some were indifferent, attending out of obligation.
Step, step.
I reached the empty throne.
The Marquis was standing there, as expected.
Damn it, I was hoping to see the King's face this time.
"It's been a while."
He greeted me softly, and then he raised his voice and gave a lengthy speech before handing me an empty box.
"Place your family crest in this box."
It was a ritual performed only when a Viscount was promoted to a Baron.
Viscount and Baron were two completely different ranks.
It was a historic moment, a new family being added to the thousand noble families that supported the kingdom.
Swoosh.
I carefully placed the cloth I had prepared into the box.
And then a majestic voice echoed through the hall.
"The eternal oath is now sealed."
The Marquis personally sealed the box and handed it to a member of the Royal Guard, who then left the Palace of Glory.
The box would be stored in the Palace of Immortality, under heavy guard.
Until the kingdom was destroyed by fire…
Or until I committed treason.
"Baron Bjorn Yandel, rise."
I stood up.
"Let us celebrate the rise of a new pillar of the royal family!"
I received a round of applause, devoid of cheers or whistles.
And…
"That concludes the promotion ceremony!"
The banquet began.
'Okay, so I've taken a big step forward.'
It was time for the next step.
-x-X-x-
The banquet held at the Palace of Glory proceeded in an extremely quiet atmosphere.
It was only natural.
All the attendees were heads of their respective families.
They had to be more mindful of their decorum, and most of them were quite old.
'The majority seem to be in their fifties…'
That thought made me chuckle.
I was the guest of honor, and yet I was stuck here feeling awkward and out of place.
Munch, munch.
I chewed on the meat, trying to suppress my irritation.
The atmosphere reminded me of my school days, when I had to transfer schools frequently.
It was a familiar feeling.
I was a complete outsider in this new group.
"...."
I felt like a monkey in a zoo.
'Count Perdehilt, Baron Serpia, Viscount Mulwark… and even Baron Martoine…'
There were a few familiar faces among the nobles who were glancing at me from afar, but no one approached me.
They used to be so eager to befriend me at other banquets. Count Perdehilt had even suggested that I marry his daughter.
'Well, I can understand their position…'
This was a kingdom of animals.
But it was ruled by reason, not instinct.
Munch, munch.
I pretended to be oblivious, focusing on my food, but I was fully aware of the situation.
This was a form of hazing.
A silent message telling me not to get any ideas about being on the same level as them just because I had become a noble.
But the solution was simple.
Just like the Duke had advised me, I could just approach them first. Then they would smile and treat me kindly.
As if I were their subordinate.
'Ugh, what a pain.'
But even choosing who to approach first was a delicate matter.
If I went to the Duke, the nobles from the Marquis's faction would ignore me.
Every action, every word I spoke here would be interpreted politically.
Munch, munch.
But I just kept eating.
There were three reasons.
First, I was hungry.
Second, the food was delicious.
And third…
'She's finally here.'
I had no intention of joining the mainstream from the beginning.
"It's no use waiting."
I smiled inwardly as I saw the woman approaching me.
"No one's coming."
White hair, white eyes, and white skin.
Everything about her was white, except for her colorful attire, which reminded me of a hanbok, and her rabbit ears.
"Greetings, Baron Yandel. How's the food?"
"Want some?"
I offered her a piece of meat, and she stared at it for a moment before smiling.
"No, thank you. I'm not hungry."
Geez, she's picky.
We're both demi-humans.
Thud.
I put down my plate and wiped my hands.
'Should I offer to shake her hand?'
I didn't know, but I wasn't going to actually do it.
I was a barbarian with manners.
At least when it was beneficial.
"Anyway, it's nice to meet you. I'm Baron Yandel."
She smiled and introduced herself.
"I'm Baroness Lirivia."
I already knew her name.
She was the only noble from the White Rabbit tribe.
'She's 43 years old and has three children.'
"May I sit down?"
"Of course. I was getting bored."
She sat down across from me.
It was the first time someone had joined me at the eight-seater table.
But there was no applause, only scornful laughter.
"Tsk, look at that."
"There's no need to stop them. They're just associating with their own kind."
Their voices were loud enough for me to hear, so she must have heard them too.
But she didn't react.
She just smiled and spoke to me softly.
"The first head of our family was also a hero, just like you, Baron Yandel. He saved the kingdom from the Iron Wall incident. Have you heard of it?"
"No, I'm afraid I haven't."
"It's okay. It was a long time ago. It's just an old story now…"
Her voice was tinged with sadness.
"Two thousand years."
"….."
"It's been two thousand years since the Lirivia family crest was enshrined in the Ark of the Covenant. A long time, indeed. Long enough for the King's era, once thought to be eternal, to end, and for a new dawn to arrive."
I could sense what she was trying to say.
"You'll get used to it, Baron Yandel. Their gazes won't change, no matter how much time passes."
"Oh, really? That's strange. I don't see much difference between you and them."
Especially their eloquence.
"…You're an interesting person, as rumored."
Interesting?
We haven't even gotten to the main topic yet.
"Anyway, you didn't come here just for small talk, did you?"
"You're perceptive, as expected. You're right."
"Then tell me."
She hesitated for a moment at my blunt question.
That's why I said there wasn't much difference between them.
She was a noble, just like them.
She valued decorum and looked down on those who didn't.
"…I'm not going to say I'm here to help you. We don't want the Yandel family to be controlled by another faction."
"Because you're the first demi-human noble family in 600 years?"
She flinched at my question.
But she quickly regained her composure and met my gaze.
"…And you're a barbarian. The first one in the history of Lafdonia."
Her words told me that her perception of me had changed.
She no longer saw me as just a barbarian.
"Just like the Lirivia family has the full support of the beastmen, the Yandel family can bring the barbarians into the political arena."
"Is that all?"
"Of course, we would have supported you even if that wasn't the case. Every demi-human family is precious."
"Hmm, I see…"
"Thirty-one families, including the Lirivia family, are supporting you. We're a minority, but we have enough influence to make our voices heard."
She continued her explanation, but I just leaned back in my chair, my expression indifferent.
She must have sensed my lack of interest.
"We're not asking you to join us for a noble cause."
Right, the desperate one always makes the first move.
"If you join us, you'll receive our full support."
"Can you be more specific?"
"For example, we can help you acquire land, build a mansion, and recruit the necessary personnel. We can shorten the decades it would normally take to establish a proper noble family to just a few years."
Wow, this is a lot of money.
This alone would make up for the fact that I chose the 'promotion' as my reward.
"And that's not all. We're all in this together."
She continued.
"If you join us, our enemies will become your enemies."
"….."
"And your enemies will become our enemies."
That was the reason I had waited for them instead of approaching the other nobles.
They were precious.
"So, what do you say?"
She asked, and I nodded.
"It's… not bad."
"You mean—"
"But it's not enough."
"…?"
She shouldn't be surprised.
I could tell there was more to offer.
It would be a shame to settle for this.
______________________
The White Rabbit Baroness's eyes widened in shock.
But she quickly recovered and asked politely,
"You're a clever man, Baron Yandel. Can you tell me what you want?"
Her words showed me how much they wanted me.
The Melbeth, the alliance of demi-human noble families.
Of course, I needed them too…
'But they don't know that.'
If I'm going to sell something, I'm going to sell it at the highest price.
That's the K-Barbarian spirit.
"I'll continue exploring the labyrinth. I'll need your support."
"…Can you give me an example?"
"I want you to sponsor my clan. Provide us with high-grade essences, rare Numbered Items, that sort of thing."
"…That's difficult. We wouldn't gain anything from that."
"What do you mean you wouldn't gain anything? You know this country revolves around the labyrinth."
"We already have enough influence in the labyrinth."
Damn, she's not going to give in easily.
It's time to bring out the barbarian.
"Why not?!"
"…Huh?"
"You said you would buy me land and build me a mansion! This is much cheaper!"
"Um… Baron Yandel? Your voice…"
"Give me a reason!!"
I stood up abruptly, and all eyes turned towards us.
She must have felt pressured by the attention.
"Supporting your family and supporting your clan are two different things. The former will help you establish your political career, while the latter won't."
She quickly explained.
But she must have felt like it wasn't enough.
"But who knows… If you become indispensable to us… we'll be willing to give you anything you want."
"What?! You're saying I'm useless right now?!"
"No, that's not what I meant…!"
"Haha! I was just kidding, Baroness Lirivia."
"…Huh?"
I sat back down, and she stared at me, dumbfounded.
Geez, I can't even joke around.
"You're telling me to prove my worth. That I'm useful for something other than being the 'first barbarian Baron'."
"Y-yes… ah, yes, that's right…?"
"Then there's no problem. It's easy for me."
"…?"
She looked confused again, and then I heard the nobles whispering.
"I thought they were fighting, but now they're laughing together?"
"Those half-breeds… they're just like animals."
"I wonder what she said to calm him down."
"Hmm, who knows? I heard he has a thing for beastwomen."
"What? You mean…?"
"Ahem, it's not impossible, is it?"
Their vulgar whispers made the Baroness blush.
I was impressed.
"…Baron Yandel."
She was worried about me causing a scene, even in this situation.
"Just ignore them. You'll hear a lot worse if you want to enter politics."
"Why?"
"…Because there's no other way."
Her honest answer, filled with the frustration of the oppressed.
She really does look like a herbivore with that expression.
I chuckled and asked,
"You said you were used to it. You don't seem angry."
"How can I not be angry? I just endure it, hoping for the day when I won't have to feel this way anymore."
"Hope…"
If hope alone could change things, there would be no unhappy people in this world.
So…
"How much do you think it's worth?"
"…What do you mean?"
"If I can make those bastards shut up, even if I can't fulfill your wish…"
I said,
"How much would it be worth to you?"
Thankfully, she didn't seem to understand the situation and answered my question honestly.
"Well, I would gladly pay a fortune."
It was an abstract and subjective answer.
But it was enough.
"Alright, then the deal is done."
"…Huh?"
"I've been analyzing you. The reason you've been getting pushed around is because you're always getting pushed around."
"W-what do you—"
What do I mean?
You need a leader.
Swoosh.
I stood up, cutting her off.
And…
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!"
I attracted their attention with a war cry.
Step, step.
I marched forward.
"Hey, Baron Yandel!"
I ignored the Baroness's surprised shout.
Step, step.
It didn't take long to reach my destination.
The noble who had been badmouthing me.
"…What's going on? You're being disruptive."
He didn't seem to understand the situation.
He even dared to look me in the eye.
"Baron Kipriot."
I hadn't been formally introduced, but I knew his name. I had memorized the crests of all the noble families after deciding to join the political arena.
'He's a Baron, his backer isn't that strong, and he's the perfect target for an example.'
I said,
"You insulted me."
"Insulted? You mean what I said earlier…? Hah! That's ridiculous. I doubt you even have the honor to be insulted, and even if you did, what are you going to do about it?"
He was trying to act tough, but his rambling betrayed his nervousness.
"If you can't control your emotions, submit a formal complaint to the council. Ah, I doubt you can even write, though!"
His friends chuckled as he finished his sentence.
They're like third-rate thugs.
They don't even know what's truly vulgar.
"Well, if you have nothing else to say, I'll—"
I cut him off.
"I challenge you to a duel."
A duel.
The only way to resolve disputes in Lafdonia's ancient noble society.
Of course, there had been less than ten duels between titled nobles in the entire history of the kingdom.
Therefore…
"Are you scared? You can choose a representative. Ah, but I'm fighting myself."
"…Are you serious?"
"Why? Do you want me to be joking?"
"...."
He didn't answer.
I could understand how he felt.
This situation was humiliating and terrifying. He must be wondering why he was being targeted, when he had just been doing what everyone else was doing.
But…
'It's time for him to learn.'
A barbarian noble had been born.
It was time to shake things up in the complacent noble society.
Step.
I took a step closer and looked down at him.
"Knight, explorer, mage… it doesn't matter."
It was against the rules to hire mercenaries as duel representatives, but…
"It doesn't have to be someone from your family."
"...."
"Bring anyone you want."
"...."
"The strongest one you can find."
He didn't answer.
"Why? Are you scared?"
I'm not.
I'm confident I can kill anyone he brings.
-x-X-x-
Like unleashing my killing intent at the Round Table, I glared down at him, as if ready to tear his throat out. Even though this wasn't the community, where minds were linked, it was enough to make him cower.
"...."
Good.
You've never experienced anything like this, have you?
Born with a silver spoon in your mouth, pampered and spoiled.
"...."
Silence.
The nobles, who loved a good scandal, were watching from afar.
They could have intervened and defended their fellow noble from a vulgar barbarian like me.
'Barbarians are OP, after all.'
If I were a fairy, a dwarf, or a beastman, someone would have stepped forward and criticized my rudeness.
They would have assumed I could understand their words.
But what about a barbarian?
The answer was in this silence.
"...."
They didn't know how to react.
They were afraid of getting caught in the crossfire.
"…Should we just leave them alone?"
Someone voiced their concern, but quickly looked away when our eyes met.
It was common sense that I wouldn't resort to violence in front of so many nobles…
But they couldn't be sure.
Would a barbarian who challenged someone to a duel over a minor insult understand common sense?
"I'm waiting for your answer."
I took a step closer.
"You don't want to duel?"
The nobles who had been chatting with him earlier discreetly backed away.
It seemed like he had no choice but to resolve this himself.
"…Name the date."
It wasn't a decision made out of confidence.
He just didn't have any other options.
Refusing a duel from a demi-human he had just insulted in front of everyone? It was social suicide in this society, where reputation was everything.
"So you're too cowardly to fight me yourself?"
"…There's a special sword for dealing with beasts."
He spoke eloquently, but it meant he was going to appoint a representative.
"Fine. But make sure you have several candidates ready."
"…Several?"
He looked confused.
Did he think it would be over after one duel?
"Ah, you didn't know? I'm going to keep challenging you to duels until my honor is restored."
A mad dog doesn't let go once it bites.
"…What?"
You should have been more careful with your words.
Or you should have had a stronger backer.
Then I would have targeted someone else.
"Are you… sure you can handle this…?"
He was asking if I was really going this far.
He must be feeling like he was struck by lightning out of nowhere.
"That's a strange question. Handle this?"
I spoke clearly, loud enough for everyone to hear.
"Do I look like someone who cares about that?"
Be careful, or you might be next.
______________________
The duel was set.
Now we just had to decide on the date.
"How about this week?"
"...."
"Do you need more time to find someone?"
"No, that's enough time."
He had finally adapted to the situation.
He must have finished his calculations.
'Maybe he even sees this as an opportunity?'
A vulgar barbarian who dared to challenge a noble.
And a noble who gracefully accepts the challenge and defends his honor.
It was a good story.
Of course, it wouldn't happen that way.
'He'll probably just use his connections to find a decent knight.'
I couldn't be sure about the level of his representative.
But I was confident.
There was no way the Captain of the Royal Knights would be a duel representative for a mere Baron.
And I could defeat anyone below that level.
But…
"That's enough."
Someone intervened.
'Duke Keallunus.'
He walked through the parting crowd and patted my shoulder.
As if trying to calm down a child throwing a tantrum.
"It's a joyous occasion, isn't it?"
"...."
"Let's just forget about this. We're all pillars of this kingdom, aren't we?"
His political intentions were clear.
He was stepping in to resolve a situation no one else could handle.
And if I calmed down and backed down after he intervened…
It would boost his reputation among the nobles.
But…
'Didn't you say we were friends?'
A friend who only takes and never gives is quickly abandoned.
If you want something from me, you have to give me something in return.
"Baron Kipriot insulted me."
The Duke's smile vanished.
I continued,
"He called me a half-breed, a beast."
Well, technically, it was his friend who said that, but whatever.
"He insulted Baroness Lirivia, calling her a whore just because she's a beastman. And when I protested, he laughed at me and asked if I even had the honor to be insulted."
He had even mocked my literacy skills, but I decided not to mention that.
It would make me seem petty.
"That's what Baron Kipriot did. On this 'joyous occasion' you mentioned."
I had declared my reasons for challenging him to a duel in front of everyone.
And then I asked,
"Is there any reason why I should forgive him?"
The Duke looked at the Baron.
He hadn't been aware of the details.
"Tsk."
He clicked his tongue and then looked back at me. He seemed to regret intervening, but now that he was involved, he only had two options.
To retreat empty-handed, his reputation tarnished.
Or…
"Baron Kipriot made a mistake."
To offer me something in return.
His decision was swift and decisive.
"I promise you, on my name, that this will never happen again. Not today, not anywhere else."
A promise made on the name of Duke Keallunus.
"Isn't that right, Baron Kipriot?"
The Baron, trembling, answered immediately.
"Y-yes… of course, Duke."
Even I could tell he was being sincere.
He wouldn't dare repeat his mistake.
And neither would any other noble.
The Duke's promise carried weight.
If this happened again, it would be a direct insult to his honor.
'It's a shame I couldn't have the duel… but there will be other opportunities.'
I made a quick judgment.
The Duke had backed down.
"So, are you going to calm down now?"
If I refused, it would be a declaration of war.
"I haven't even received an apology from Baron Kipriot yet. And even if I do, my honor won't be restored."
But…
I continued,
"I'll let it slide."
"Hmm…"
The nobles gasped.
"It's my friend's request."
"...!"
Their eyes widened in surprise.
______________________
Friend.
A word that signifies a close and equal relationship.
"….."
The moment I uttered that word, silence fell over the Palace of Glory.
'A barbarian and a Duke, friends?'
The air was thick with anticipation.
The Duke frowned slightly, and then he smiled warmly.
"I'm glad to hear that."
He didn't deny or confirm our friendship.
But it was enough.
It significantly boosted my status.
'What an unexpected gain.'
Of course, the Duke had made a calculated decision. He had made a promise on his family's name to resolve a minor incident.
He must have judged that it was better to boost my status than to damage his own reputation.
"Well, I have some official business to attend to, so I'll be taking my leave. I'll summon you again soon. And congratulations on your promotion."
He left after making a promise to meet again in front of everyone.
'This is making me feel a bit pressured…'
But the outcome was good.
The way they looked at me had changed.
"…He's not just some lucky barbarian, is he?"
"Could it be that… the Duke was the one who supported his promotion…?"
Their condescending gazes were now filled with curiosity.
It was a good sign.
The more attention I received, the less likely the Marquis would be to act recklessly.
So I just gave Baron Kipriot a warning and returned to my seat.
The White Rabbit Baroness was standing there, staring at me.
"You don't have to stand up to greet me."
"...."
"…Baroness Lirivia?"
She finally snapped out of her daze and approached me.
And then she whispered urgently,
"W-why did you do that…!"
"...."
"It's a good thing the Duke intervened! You could have been in serious trouble!"
Geez, this family doesn't appreciate tanks.
Shouldn't she be thanking me for my efforts?
"It worked out, didn't it?"
"…?"
"The Duke's promise won't erase all discrimination, but at least they won't be whispering behind your back anymore."
Just like you wanted.
Her expression changed.
"You… you did all that just for us?"
"Why would I need another reason?"
"That was too reckless! If the Duke hadn't intervened, Melbeth wouldn't have been able to protect you…!"
Her words were a bit hurtful.
It made my efforts seem like pure luck.
"Well, I don't think that would have happened."
"…Of course, I value your worth. But not all the families in Melbeth feel the same way. They might have decided that you weren't worth the risk, considering the potential backlash from the other nobles…"
"Stop."
She was rambling.
That wasn't what I meant.
"Melbeth doesn't matter."
"…Huh?"
"Neither does the Duke. The outcome wouldn't have been different even if he hadn't intervened."
"…?"
I explained patiently.
"You told me to become indispensable."
"...."
"That's why I challenged him to a duel. They need someone like me to keep them in check. Ah, Baron Kipriot was the perfect target. His family isn't that influential, and his backer isn't that strong."
"Wait! You… you planned all this?"
"Sort of."
I nodded, and she was speechless.
But she still had one question.
"But how does that make you indispensable?"
Ah, that?
"You said there was no other way when I asked why you were enduring their insults."
I had seen it then.
What the demi-human nobles lacked.
Something only a seasoned tank could recognize.
"It's not that there was no other way. There's always a way."
I said firmly.
"If you can't see a path, it's because…"
"….."
"…you don't have someone to clear it for you."
She didn't say anything.
But I could tell from her expression.
'Okay, my self-promotion worked.'
Right, I set my own value.
______________________
We continued our conversation.
She was impressed and asked me countless questions, and I played along, selling myself like a salesman.
And as time passed…
"You're right…"
Her expression changed.
"What has changed after all these years of enduring their insults? If we had taken even a single step forward… the outcome would have been different!"
The naive herbivore was gone.
Only a determined beast remained.
"It's time for Melbeth to change. Don't worry, Baron Yandel. I'll make sure you get the guild's support. We need someone like you."
She left the table.
I watched her leave, and a thought crossed my mind.
To hide your fangs, or to bare them.
Maybe that's the difference between herbivores and carnivores.
'This is why environment is so important.'
She's so easily influenced.
Maybe it's because she's a rabbit.
Anyway, she left, and I continued my meal.
And then the nobles started approaching me.
"Baron Yandel, I apologize for my earlier behavior. I heard what happened, and it seems like you had every right to challenge him to a duel."
"Yes, it was outrageous."
"Tsk, racism in this day and age."
They were all trying to make amends now that the Duke had intervened.
It was amusing, but I played along.
Connections were also assets.
"Haha, thank you. I'll visit your families if you invite me."
"Oh, really? I heard you haven't attended any banquets since the one at Count Perdehilt's mansion."
"I didn't know anyone back then. But now we're friends, aren't we?"
"…Friends? Hahaha! You're quite bold for an explorer! Alright, let's be friends!"
Count Perdehilt was also among those who approached me, and he seemed to regret not having married his daughter to me.
"I'm happy to see you doing so well, but I'm a bit disappointed. My daughter would have been happy…"
His daughter? Please.
She was trembling in fear when she saw me.
"Haha, I'll be going now. Don't ignore me when I invite you to my banquet!"
I sent him away, and then I continued greeting the other nobles.
And then…
'…Huh?'
A middle-aged Baron shook my hand, slipped a note into my palm, and then left.
I felt a chill run down my spine.
'This bastard…'
I wanted to tear the note to shreds, but I decided to read it first, just in case.
And I was glad I didn't.
[I'll be waiting for you in three days, at the place where we first met. —Your true friend.]
Wow, he's being so secretive.
So I had completed one of the sub-quests for the promotion ceremony?
'…Now I just have to meet the Marquis.'
I tore up the note, flushed it down the toilet, and then left the bathroom.
-x-X-x-
The banquet, which began a little after noon, ended before sunset.
It was only natural.
All the attendees were heads of their respective families. Unlike the nobles who were busy enjoying themselves, they had a lot of work to do.
'Indeed, after about two hours, people started leaving in droves.'
Most of those who were forced to attend by tradition stayed only long enough to avoid criticism and then left the palace without hesitation.
Of course, since it was a gathering where it was rare to see the heads of families all in one place, there were many heads of families who actively engaged in social activities, using this banquet as an opportunity. But even they all left, saying they were tired, as the sun began to set.
'Is this what they mean when they say old people become like children?'
It's like they have a curfew in this country.
Clatter, clatter.
As I watched the royal palace fade away from the carriage window, various thoughts crossed my mind.
From the trivial thought that it would be convenient to have a house in the Imperial City to my future plans.
'In the end, I couldn't have a proper conversation with the Marquis.'
Unfortunately, one of the quests for this banquet, 'Probe the Marquis,' ended in failure.
I did go and greet him, and I even sat at his table, but there were too many people around him. And he didn't seem to want to dismiss them.
In the end, I had to return after exchanging pleasantries.
It was disappointing.
'Well, it doesn't really matter what he's thinking now…'
The important thing now was balance.
No matter what the Marquis's intentions were, he wouldn't be able to act recklessly once I gained more influence.
So I had to walk a fine line.
I had to be strong enough to deter him, but not so strong that he felt threatened.
'Well, it's good that I'm joining Melbeth…'
The official joining ceremony would be held later, but for now, things were going smoothly.
But I wasn't sure about Ragna, who had contacted me through that note.
If things went well, she could be a valuable asset in my conflict with the Marquis…
"Haa…"
I felt a pang of sadness.
If she had just remained a librarian, I would have been able to greet her without any worries.
'Why does she have to be the Marquis's daughter…?'
And Hyunbyul was also involved.
The more I thought about it, the more complicated it became.
'…I'll find out when I meet her.'
I took a nap in the carriage, and before I knew it, we arrived at the military transfer station. I was teleported back to Ravigion and then took another carriage home.
"You're back early."
"It ended sooner than expected. Where's Erwen?"
"She came back a while ago and is taking a bath."
Oh, so I can finally talk to her today.
I went upstairs, took a bath, changed my clothes, and then went downstairs to the living room. Amelia and Erwen were sitting on the sofa, chatting.
They seemed surprisingly close.
Hmm, it must be because they went through hell together in Ice Rock—
"Mister!!"
Erwen jumped up and ran towards me.
I stopped her with a gesture.
"Erwen, I'm not your 'Mister' anymore."
"…Huh?"
She looked deflated.
"I'm Baron Bjorn Yandel!"
"Ah…"
Damn it, she's not even excited.
Ainar would have cheered and celebrated with me.
"Bjorn, stop being silly and sit down."
"…Alright."
I sat down on the sofa, and the family meeting began. We had a lot to discuss, but the first topic was Erwen.
"…It's all settled. I returned the Divine Tree Bow, and the money I borrowed to buy this house… I'll return it within a month."
She sounded guilty.
I asked her why, and she said she felt bad about not being able to keep the house, which held so many precious memories…
"It's fine. Why are you apologizing?"
I was actually more surprised that the fairy tribe had let her go so easily.
The 'Pureblood' was a once-in-a-generation power.
I thought they might even demand her life.
'This is the best possible outcome…'
I was suspicious, so I asked her how she managed to pull it off.
"My uncle helped me when I was arguing with the elders. I think that made a big difference."
Her uncle…
He was a hero of the fairy tribe, if I remember correctly.
I wanted to meet him someday.
"A month is a tight deadline."
Amelia brought up a realistic issue after Erwen finished her report.
"We can sell this house to cover the debt, but we still need to find a new place to live."
"…What if we buy it back? We can afford it if we sell the loot."
"Hmm. What do you think, Bjorn?"
"Hmm…"
I thought for a moment and then said,
"Let's stay at an inn for a while. Or maybe rent a house. It'll be smaller than this one, but…"
"…I-I see…"
Erwen seemed reluctant to sell the house, but she didn't object to my decision.
Geez, she can be honest with me.
"Don't worry. This house… it's just a temporary shelter."
I told her about Melbeth's offer to help us buy land and build a mansion.
Her face brightened instantly.
"S-so the Yandel family will become a real noble family…!"
"Yes, so tell me what you want when we're designing the mansion."
"…?"
"It'll be your house too."
"!!!!"
It seemed like she had forgotten all about her attachment to this house.
"And yours too, Amelia."
I mentioned Amelia just in case she felt left out, and she sighed.
But she still made a request.
"…I want the navigator's room to be bigger. With a window."
It seemed like she was worried about the navigator's mental health.
Maybe some fresh air would help?
______________________
"That settles the housing issue… What about the labyrinth expedition?"
Amelia brought up the next topic.
Our party was incomplete.
Ainar, Erwen, Amelia, me, and our navigator.
We were one member short of a full party.
The problem was that we didn't have anyone suitable to fill the vacancy.
I was planning to recruit all the expedition members into my clan eventually, but I didn't want to rush things.
'Raviyen or Bersil Gowland would be the safest options…'
But Bersil had said it would take at least a month for her to settle her issues with the church, and Raviyen had said she was taking a break from exploring.
'…Damn it, we're still one member short.'
It was a shame to waste a month of exploration time.
I made my decision.
"I think it's best if we explore as a five-man party this time."
"Five?"
"It's not unusual. Five-man parties were common a few years ago."
"That's… true."
"We'll be staying on the 6th floor, so it won't be that dangerous."
"The 6th floor… Alright. I'll let Lokrob know."
That settled the expedition issue.
We had dinner and chatted for a while before going to bed.
And the next morning…
We went to the guild branch and registered as clan members.
"H-hehe… Thank you, Mister."
I wish she would thank Amelia instead…
She even requested an extra copy of the document and carefully stored it away.
'Now I have to find a Vice-Captain…'
I had suggested to Amelia that she would be a good candidate, but she had refused immediately.
She didn't want to attract attention.
Well, she was using a fake name, 'Emily Raines'.
'Who should I choose…'
It was an important position.
The Vice-Captain could handle most administrative tasks that required the leader's authority.
'…Raven would have been perfect. She's meticulous and efficient.'
After registering our clan, we had lunch at a nearby restaurant.
"Bjorn, are you going to Commelby now?"
"No, I'm going to the temple first."
"…The temple?"
Amelia tilted her head in confusion, and then she realized.
"You're going to remove the Gachabon essence."
"I don't need to hide my appearance anymore."
That was one of the reasons, but I had also been considering keeping it.
It was a decent essence.
Maybe I should keep it until I found a better one.
But…
"There's another reason, isn't there?"
"I got my old equipment back from Ainar and Abman. I can use it now that I'm back to my original size. And I might find a better essence while exploring the 6th floor. And I should visit the tribe someday. It wouldn't be appropriate to go there in this form."
"Hmm…?"
Amelia hummed thoughtfully, while Erwen looked disappointed.
"Uh… so you're going to be big again…?"
"Yes."
"I liked you like this…"
She has strange taste.
What does she even like about this scrawny body?
"I'll be back soon."
I went to the temple alone and had the essence removed.
「The [Gachabon Essence] that had been absorbed into the character's soul has been removed.」
「Sixth Sense decreased by -40.」
「Physical Resistance decreased by -15.」
「Darkness Resistance decreased by -30.」
「Accuracy decreased by -45…」
My stats decreased.
「Bone Density decreased by -110.」
And my height increased.
「Control increased by +30.」
At least my mind feels clearer.
「Luck increased by +50.」
And my luck must have improved too.
Swoosh.
I got dressed and looked at my reflection in the mirror.
'Whew, I'm finally back to my original form.'
I'm really big.
I wanted to roar, but I suppressed the urge.
This was a temple.
_______________________
「Bjorn Yandel」
Level: 7
Physical: 1,390.55 (New -54.5) / Mental: 521.3 / Ability: 2,197.65
Item Level: 6,285 (New -2,020)
Total Combat Power: 5,680.75 (New -575.58)
Absorbed Essences: Orc Hero - Rank 5 / Ogre - Rank 3 / Bion - Rank 3 / Stormgush - Rank 3 / Vol-Herchan - Rank 3 / Deep Sea Giant - Rank 3
_______________________
Erwen and Amelia's reactions were completely different.
"Hehe, Mister! You look cool! Just like when we first met!"
Erwen, who had been disappointed, was now praising me.
"…You look better this way."
Amelia, on the other hand, was still blunt.
But she added,
"But… maybe this is better."
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"You're better off being ugly."
"I'm not ugly, I'm manly!"
"Pfft…"
"…Are you laughing at me?"
I wanted to scold her, but I held back.
She was a precious comrade.
And she really didn't have any manners.
'…I would have lost it if my Control stat hadn't increased.'
Anyway, we headed towards Commelby, as planned.
Not all the expedition members lived in the 7th District.
We decided to meet in Commelby, the city center.
"This is it."
We entered a building that Bersil had rented for the day, and I saw familiar faces.
"Haha, you're finally here. Viscount Yandel… or should I call you Baron now?"
Meland Kaislan.
"…Oh my, you've changed."
Liris Marone, James Kala, Sven Parab…
The survivors of Ice Rock were gathered here, marveling at my transformation.
"Bersil, where are Akuraba and Raviyen?"
"They couldn't make it."
"So everyone else is here."
"Of course. They were all curious."
Well, I was curious too, so they must have been even more so.
"How's the security?"
"Don't worry about surveillance. This place doesn't even have windows, and the voice control magic is active. I even set up a mana detection field, just in case."
…She's good at this.
I should ask her if she's interested in being the Vice-Captain.
"Baron Yandel!"
"Just call me Leader."
We chatted for a while, catching up on each other's lives.
And then…
"Um… when are we going to do it?"
The opening ceremony for the subspace pockets we had looted from the Rose Knights.
"I thought they were empty because there was nothing in them except for our backpacks."
I had thought the same.
But then I found out it wasn't true.
There was something hidden inside, and we needed to adjust the Bonding magic to access it.
Bersil, the mage, had discovered it…
"One at a time, please. I've prepared enough reagents."
I was a bit nervous.
I had never done this before.
"I wonder… what's inside…?"
"I was disappointed at first, but now I'm even more excited."
"Phew… you all opened them already? I didn't even think about it, I was too worried about being watched."
What could they have been hiding so carefully?
I didn't know.
That's why I had removed the Gachabon essence today.
"So… is everything ready…?"
"Let's open them!"
I hoped luck would be on my side today.
-x-X-x-
We decided to open the Rose Knights' secret subspace pockets one by one, as we didn't know what we might find.
And the first one to go was Liris Marone, the mage from the military.
"It's a box…?"
What emerged from her subspace pocket was a wooden box.
It was small, barely big enough to hold a couple of books.
"There are no magical traps. You can just open it."
We opened the box as soon as Bersil gave us permission.
And…
"Uh…"
"This is…"
The explorers let out gasps of surprise.
The contents of the box were far from what we had expected.
"Just some cash, a few fake ID cards, and a portrait…"
"…Whose portrait is that? A family member?"
"It seems so. It's worn out, as if it's been handled often."
What the…
"N-next! Let's open the next one!"
We were disappointed, but we didn't give up hope. We continued opening the subspace pockets.
"More cash and ID cards… And this one has some strange pills?"
The pills that emerged from the second box were something both Amelia and I were familiar with.
"It's a potion called 'Lete's Blessing'."
"…You know what this is, Raines?"
"Yes, it erases the target's memories. It was created by Noark's alchemists. It seems like the royal family has also figured out the recipe."
"This… might be useful someday. How many memories can it erase?"
"Well, it looks a bit different from the ones I know. Maybe they improved it."
"I see… The pills are all different sizes. I have a feeling the bigger ones erase more memories… I'll test them out in the lab."
The third, the fourth, the fifth…
The subspace pockets were opened one after another.
"…More of those Lete's Blessing pills."
"There's some kind of poison here."
"…It's a highly acidic solution. They probably used it to dispose of something. Like a corpse…"
The subspace pockets, which we had thought were treasure chests, were mostly empty.
Well, there were a few useful items besides the Lete's Blessing pills.
"Sir Kaislan, can you take a look at this notebook?"
It was from the sixth subspace pocket.
"This… seems to be a list of the royal family's spies."
A list of names, the royal family's informants who were operating undercover in various organizations.
It was a testament to the royal family's power.
"It seems like this is just a small fraction of their informants."
"This is just a fraction…?"
"Look closely. Most of the informants are focused on a specific noble family. Maybe the owner of this subspace pocket was on a personal mission related to that family."
"And this list… is just for that one mission?"
"That's just my speculation."
Kaislan concluded, but I couldn't think of any other possibilities.
"They say the royal family has eyes and ears everywhere… I never imagined it would be this extensive…"
A heavy silence followed.
We had all realized…
The true power of the royal family, the enemy we were about to face.
"Anyway, it's a good thing."
I tried to sound nonchalant, breaking the silence.
"Bersil, I'll take this list. It might be useful someday."
I took the list, and that concluded the matter.
"Now, for the last one."
The explorers' eyes sparkled.
Their initial excitement had faded, but they were still hoping for something good.
"…This was hers, right?"
Six, the Rose Knight.
I didn't know if she was the leader, the vice-captain, or just an ordinary member, but one thing was certain.
She was the one in charge that day.
But…
"…Another wooden box."
We opened the box, our expectations low.
Cash.
ID cards.
Lete's Blessing.
And…
A single document in an unsealed envelope.
"This is…"
It was an order from the royal family.
An order to eliminate the expedition force in Ice Rock if they somehow managed to survive.
"This will be useful."
It was a good find.
______________________
After the subspace pocket opening ceremony,
I collected all the equipment we had brought back from the labyrinth.
"What are we going to do with this equipment?"
"We'll sell the stuff we got from Noark slowly and carefully. And we'll use the money as our operating funds."
"I see…"
They didn't seem to have any objections, even though I was practically taking all the loot and claiming ownership.
I was happy that they trusted me, but also a bit worried.
'They're so naive.'
What if I wasn't a kind and responsible barbarian?
"Yandel, what about the Rose Knights' equipment? If we sell it as is, the royal family will find out."
"Ah, I'm going to find a blacksmith and have them reforge it. It's too valuable to just sell, and it's also too dangerous."
I planned to melt down the Mithril, which was as valuable as Orichalcum, and cut up the Ogre leather, a 5th-grade material, to make new equipment.
Of course, it wouldn't be much.
Even if we melted down all the daggers, it wouldn't be enough to make a full set of Mithril armor. And there would be a lot of loss during the leatherworking process.
"We'll decide what to make later, so if anyone's interested in a specific material, come up with a good reason."
I wanted to make a Mithril shield for myself, but a leader shouldn't prioritize his personal gain.
The funds would be used for the benefit of the clan.
Well, they didn't seem to care anyway.
"I'm more interested in discussing the clan. You said you created one a few days ago… When can we join?"
"Ah, Bersil has already created a schedule."
"Really? When's my turn?"
"About three months from now, Miss Marone. It'll be cleanest if you resign from the military due to a conflict with your superiors. But if you have a better excuse, let me know."
"Hmm, what about me?"
"Sir Kaislan… you'll be the last one. You have a high rank, so it'll take some time. It'll be more natural if you join after the attention dies down… at least a year."
"I see…"
"Kala, you said you were kicked out of your clan? Take a break for a couple of months and then apply to other clans. They won't accept you, of course."
"...."
"I tried to find a new nest, but I couldn't find a suitable one, so I decided to join Yandel's clan. It's much more natural, isn't it?"
"What if they accept me?"
"Then demand a high position, citing your experience as a Vice-Captain. They'll tell you to get lost. Trust me, I've been in charge of recruitment before."
James Kala was speechless.
"And as for Paladin Parab…"
Bersil's efficient briefing continued.
It was impressive.
She was a mage, a former clan Vice-Captain, and a modern person…
She was a perfect combination.
'I wonder what she did in her previous life.'
Anyway, the briefing ended, and then they started asking me questions.
"Ainar Frenelin, the Storm Sword… how much does she know about us?"
"She doesn't know anything. So be careful what you say when you meet her."
"I see…"
"But we already have two members from the Seven Strengths. If we add ourselves to the mix… we'll attract a lot of attention, even if we don't want to. Hehehe."
"Hmm, Parab, you think you're on that level?"
"…Uh, am I not? Well, I might not be as famous, but… uh…"
"I'm curious about this Auyen Lokrob member. I've never heard of him. Is he trustworthy?"
Amelia answered that question for me.
"He's trustworthy. I guarantee it."
After a series of similar questions, the topic changed again.
We talked about the promotion ceremony, and when I told them about joining Melbeth, our next plan naturally came up.
But I couldn't explain everything here, so I just gave them a brief overview.
"We have a lot of enemies. But so do they."
"...."
"And the enemy of my enemy is my friend."
My plan was simple.
To build a clan, establish a family, and gather allies.
To protect ourselves from those who had abandoned us.
______________________
After the serious discussion, the atmosphere became more relaxed.
"Sir Kaislan, how are you doing? Did they interrogate you?"
"They did, but it was more like an interview. They didn't even use verification magic."
We caught up on each other's lives.
"Gowland, do you have any sleeping pills?"
"Yes, I can give you some if you need them."
"You're not even asking why."
"I can't sleep either. Not since that day."
Some asked for help.
"Miss Marone… what's that on your nails?"
"Ah, this? Pretty, right? It's the latest trend among mages. Do you want to try it, Tersia?"
And some just chatted idly.
It was strange.
We were complete strangers a month ago…
"...."
I sat alone on the sofa in the corner, looking around.
Unlike the banquet at the Palace of Glory, there was no fancy food or expensive wine. We were just sitting here in an empty building, talking.
But I still preferred it this way.
"Well, I should be going now."
As always, time flew by.
As evening approached, the members started to leave, and our reunion came to an end.
I returned home with Erwen and Amelia.
And two days later…
"You're going to the library? At this hour?"
I left the house early in the morning, ignoring Amelia and Erwen's puzzled looks.
It was only later that I realized…
[I'll be waiting for you in three days, at the place where we first met.]
…the note didn't mention a time.
Ragna was surprisingly careless for someone who seemed so meticulous.
"Haa…"
I walked through the familiar streets of the 7th District, and soon I reached my destination.
[Ravigion National Library]
The place I had practically lived in when I first woke up in this barbarian body.
But I froze as soon as I arrived.
There was a sign on the door.
'Closed Today.'
'…I didn't expect this.'
What should I do? Should I just wait here? Right, then at least we won't miss each other.
As I was contemplating…
Click, click.
I heard the sound of high heels approaching.
I turned around and saw a woman walking towards me.
I flinched the moment our eyes met.
"Greetings, Baron Yandel."
Black hair, black eyes, and a black skirt.
Everything about her was black, except for her white shirt.
"This way, please. The Viscountess is waiting—"
"That's wrong."
"…Yes?"
I looked at the woman, who seemed confused, and said firmly.
"I'm not a Baron today. I'm a Clan Master."
"….."
"The 'Anabada' Clan, which was recently founded."
She didn't react to my sudden declaration.
She just smiled politely and said,
"I see. I'll be careful with my address from now on, Clan Master Yandel."
"Thank you. I'm feeling a bit sensitive today."
"Sensitive…? What do you mean?"
"Ah, doesn't 'Clan Master' sound stronger than 'Baron'?"
"…I see."
She agreed, even though she didn't understand the difference.
I couldn't resist asking,
"Do you know what 'Anabada' means?"
She answered immediately.
"It means 'pack of beasts' in ancient language."
"Uh, uh… right, that's right… You're knowledgeable."
I pretended to be disappointed that I couldn't show off my knowledge. She pretended not to notice and opened the door to the library.
"This way, please. The Viscountess is waiting for you."
She walked ahead of me, and I followed, clicking my tongue.
Click, click.
Damn it, she's definitely Hyunbyul.