C52, 53, 54
Chapter 52: Team of Misfits (2)
Whooooosh!
The heat is intense even from a distance of 10 meters.
And the acrid smell of burning flesh tickles my nose.
Thump!
My heart clenches as my brain processes the situation.
‘If that had fallen on our heads…’
We probably would have all died.
“Ba, battle stations!”
The moment the dwarf, who had been stunned by the sudden event, shouts…
Explorers emerge from the bushes.
There are five of them in total.
Four of them are in a formation, protecting one mage.
‘Damn it, they don’t look like they belong on the 3rd floor…’
Why are these bastards here?
Just as I’m praying inwardly that they’re not marauders…
The beastman with triangular ears smirks as he sees us preparing for battle.
And he speaks in a condescending tone,
“This Orc Encampment is the territory of the Dzarwi Clan, so leave.”
‘Clan?’
No wonder they’re all wearing the same emblem on their chests.
‘Damn it…’
Curses escape my lips involuntarily.
It’s not because I don’t understand what they’re doing.
‘Controlling hunting grounds on the 3rd floor?’
Damn it, wasn’t this content supposed to start from at least the 5th floor?
__________________________________________
[Dungeon and Stone] is a single-player game.
But surprisingly, there’s territory control content.
Initially, it appears as a way to prevent movement between maps before clearing the main episodes, but later on, if you create a clan, you can also control hunting grounds as a player.
Of course, since it requires a huge amount of manpower, it’s not worth it unless it’s the habitat of a few rare monsters or boss monsters.
‘But to control the 3rd floor?’
I can’t understand it at all.
What the hell are they going to do with 7th-grade monsters?
Just look at that mage.
Using such a high-level personnel who can cast spells like that just to hunt orcs is a waste.
“…I know that the Dzarwi Clan operates on the 6th floor or higher. Then why are you guys in a place like the Orc Encampment?”
The dwarf also seems to have never heard of this before and asks cautiously.
However, the answer he gets is cold.
“We have no reason to explain that to you.”
Ah, I see.
I understand, but the dwarf doesn’t.
Although he’s shown his goofy side since joining the team, he’s still an explorer.
He’s sensitive when it comes to matters that affect his interests.
Especially if the cause is external, not internal.
“I’ve heard that some clans receive recognition for their achievements and are granted rights within the labyrinth by the royal family. But I’ve never heard of this place being the Dzarwi Clan’s territory. And besides, we can’t even verify if you’re actually members of that clan.”
The dwarf presents his questions as logically as possible, considering who he’s dealing with.
It’s definitely a valid point.
Their equipment and the level of magic we just witnessed clearly show that they’re much higher-level explorers than us, but there’s no proof that they’re members of that clan.
However…
‘Shouldn’t we just leave…’
Honestly, I’m more scared if they’re not actually from the clan.
Large clans at least care about outside opinions, but those impersonators definitely won’t.
“You’re telling an interesting story.”
The beastman frowns in displeasure and glares at us.
However, the dwarf doesn’t back down.
“I hear that often.”
As the silent power struggle continues, the tension gradually rises.
Thud.
I feel something approaching from behind.
I check, and it’s none other than Misha.
But why is she suddenly clinging to me like this?
As if she’s hiding from something…
“…Don’t tell me, you’re a half-breed?”
The beastman frowns deeply as he asks, and I feel a flinch from behind me.
What the, was she really hiding?
“O, older brother…”
Misha stutters and slowly steps out from behind me.
The beastman’s expression contorts even more.
“I told you not to call me that outside.”
“So, sorry.”
“Tsk, that way of speaking, as expected of a half-breed.”
Misha hangs her head low, unable to say anything at the beastman’s sarcasm.
As expected, it seems they weren’t close enough to call each other ‘half-breed’ just because they’re friends.
‘Anyway, what’s their relationship? Could they be actual siblings?’
Just as that question arises, the mage from the opposing side, who had been standing silently in the back, asks straightforwardly,
“Just in case, is this lady your younger sister?”
“Yes, for now.”
The beastman nods politely, and the mage strokes his shiny beard.
“Hmm, I owe a debt to Lord Kaltstein. And since she’s your sister, she’s not exactly a stranger, so I’ll make an exception for them—”
“That’s not necessary.”
“Huh? But…”
The beastman firmly rejects the mage’s consideration once again.
“Father won’t mind either. I can’t tell you the reason because it’s a family matter.”
His voice is cold, filled with determination.
“If you say so…”
The mage changes his mind and nods silently. However, he must have thought it was okay to at least give an explanation.
“Hey, you guys.”
He takes a step forward and speaks in a conciliatory tone.
“Due to some internal clan matters, we urgently need the Orc Great Warrior’s essence. If things go well, you guys can also hunt here from the next cycle, so please go somewhere else this time. Hmm, or maybe go to the outer area where Great Warriors don’t appear.”
Although his tone is much softer than the beastman’s, perhaps because he’s a mage… it still means the same thing, that he wants us to leave.
“I refuse.”
The dwarf shakes his head.
And he sarcastically retorts with a sharpness that’s unlike him.
“It seems like you’re claiming rights without any official authorization from the royal family, so why should we accommodate your clan’s circumstances? And do you even realize that what you’re doing is illegal?”
“…Illegal?”
Was that word particularly offensive?
“A wise explorer would know when to be careful with their words.”
The mage’s gentle eyes turn sharp.
However, perhaps because he doesn’t want to leave any room for future problems…
“More importantly, when did we break the law? We’re just being considerate and suggesting that you go somewhere else because there won’t be any monsters left for you to hunt if we’re here.”
Although it’s phrased indirectly, it means that if we don’t leave, they’ll interfere with our hunting with all their might.
The dwarf clenches his teeth with a frustrated expression, as if he understands.
“Damn it…”
If they were forcefully kicking us out or injuring us, it would be different…
But matters like these are not clearly defined by labyrinth law.
In other words, it means we can’t get any help from the law.
‘In the first place, it was a mistake to rely on the law.’
I’m sorry to the dwarf who tried to protect our team’s interests, but I wanted to retreat from the beginning.
After all, the labyrinth is a place where the strong make the law.
If you act recklessly out of stubbornness, you might disappear without a trace.
‘He must have realized by now that it’s not the time to be prideful, so it’s best to persuade him to leave.’
Just as I’m observing the situation and deciding on my next course of action…
“You guys don’t have to worry, I’ll take care of this.”
Dwarkey suddenly intervenes.
Spouting words that I can’t understand at all.
‘Take care of it? What is he talking about?’
I have no clue.
However, before I can ask about the meaning of his words…
Dwarkey approaches the opposing mage with a smile.
“Hahaha! It’s nice to meet you, senior.”
“…Senior? Have we met before?”
“No, but as a fellow who has dedicated his life to the study of magic—”
“Enough, who are you?”
Dwarkey flinches for a moment, perhaps not expecting such a sharp response, and then forces a smile and answers.
“Hahaha, my name is Liol Wobu Dwarkey, an 8th-grade mage officially recognized by the Lafdonia royal family—”
“I thought it was something, but you’re just trash.”
“…Yes?”
Displeasure appears on the mage’s face.
No, he looks even more offended than when the word ‘illegal’ came up, and this time, it seems like he has no intention of hiding his emotions.
“The study of magic? Dedicated your life? You’re just a piece of trash who learned a few basic spells, calls yourself a mage, and makes a living off petty tricks in the marketplace. You shouldn’t say such things, it makes me shudder. Please don’t say that anywhere else.”
He throws out sharp insults like a machine gun.
‘Is it because he’s a mage? His words are harsh.’
While I’m impressed by the mage’s relentless verbal assault, I’m also worried about Dwarkey. Even I would feel like my spirit is breaking if I heard such things to my face…
“…Keu, keuheok!”
Ah, it’s already broken.
I look to the side and see Dwarkey blinking his eyes, unable to breathe properly.
His mouth slightly opens and closes repeatedly, reminding me of a fish thrown onto the sand.
The dwarf, witnessing his best friend’s mental breakdown, finally explodes.
“Hey! That’s a bit too much!”
“I’m just stating facts.”
“What? Stating facts?”
Veins bulge on the dwarf’s neck.
His eyes gleam with killing intent, and things are looking serious.
And as soon as I sense that…
“You, you son of a—!”
I grab the dwarf by the scruff of his neck and lift him up.
Then I immediately confiscate the war hammer he’s holding.
And as expected…
Tzzzt!
I feel a tingling sensation from my fingertips.
「Hikurod Murad has cast [Lightning].」
Damn it, is this guy really crazy?
I suppress my anger as much as possible and mutter in a low voice.
“Get a grip, Hikurod.”
We all almost died just now.
“You have good companions. Be grateful to that barbarian for the rest of your life. He saved all of you.”
“…….”
Has the dwarf finally come to his senses?
He ignores the mage’s sarcasm and hurriedly leads the team away. And as soon as we reach the outer area, he gives us a brief bow.
“I’m sorry. I lost my composure and got excited. If it weren’t for Bjorn, just like that guy said…”
We would have all died.
They didn’t look like the kind of guys who would let those who attacked first go unharmed, just because they’re magnanimous.
“You just made a reckless decision that could have led the entire team to ruin.”
Rotmiller reprimands him in a strong tone.
“…I’m ashamed of myself.”
The dwarf hangs his head low, as if he knows he was wrong, without making excuses.
Honestly, I was hoping that Rotmiller would blame him even more harshly.
But…
“Nothing happened in the end, so I won’t say anything more.”
Rotmiller is too kind-hearted to be a disciplinarian.
“And although it was reckless, I personally think you did well by stepping up when your teammate was being insulted.”
I don’t understand at all.
He even praises him in this situation, where even swearing would be an understatement?
‘Shouldn’t he at least reduce his share of the loot and make him work for free on this expedition?’
There should be both punishment and reward for mistakes.
That’s the only way to prevent the same mistakes from happening again.
Although I was thinking of such a realistic solution inwardly, the atmosphere wasn’t right to say it out loud.
‘Damn, am I the strange one?’
After Rotmiller forgives the dwarf with his magnanimous attitude, the atmosphere becomes strange.
It’s an indescribable feeling, the kind of atmosphere I’ve always found most uncomfortable since I was young.
“…I’m also sorry. Maybe things could have been resolved more peacefully if it weren’t for me.”
The first one to be swept up in the atmosphere is none other than Misha.
“Wh, where would that be the case!”
The second one is Dwarkey.
Dwarkey is startled by Misha’s self-blame and waves his hands frantically. And even while stammering, he speaks resolutely.
“I, I… of course, what I say isn’t always right, but…! I think we were at least able to hear their reasons and get kicked out because you were there! So please don’t think like that!”
Although it wasn’t a particularly eloquent consolation, the emotions within it were conveyed sincerely to everyone.
Is that why?
“Do you know why I hate talking about my family?”
Misha suddenly starts talking about herself.
“I’m treated like a nobody in my family. Maybe some of you can even guess the reason.”
Misha glances at us, observing our expressions.
Rotmiller, as if he’s one of those who guessed, averts his gaze first, and I follow suit and pretend not to know.
Fairies handle spirits.
Dwarves with the blessing of craftsmanship have increased efficiency when handling Numbered Items, and barbarians have Spirit Engravings.
Just like that, beastmen also have a racial characteristic besides their naturally high agility stats.
“I’m the only one in my family who couldn’t make a contract with a Spirit Beast.”
Spirit Beast.
Beastmen can make contracts with ancient beasts called Spirit Beasts.
And the forms of these contracts are diverse.
Summoning them to fight together, possessing them to enhance physical abilities, or receiving blessings to use the beast’s special abilities.
Of course, not all beastmen can do this.
Only a few talented beastmen are chosen by Spirit Beasts.
However, the problem here is…
‘That she’s of the chieftain’s bloodline.’
She’s a direct descendant of the Kaltstein family, the chieftain’s family.
In other words, the fact that she, a pureblood, can’t handle ‘Spirit Beasts’ is a big issue. It’s not just a matter of talent, but it also becomes circumstantial evidence that casts doubt on her bloodline itself.
“When I was young, I got along well with my siblings. But things changed when I couldn’t make a contract with a Spirit Beast even after becoming an adult. They all called me a half-breed. They said my blood was only half…”
A child born out of wedlock.
Her mother passed away early, so no one knows the truth, and Misha couldn’t stand the suspicion and left home. And she focused solely on martial arts, slowly growing as an explorer.
“Thank you for sharing your difficult story.”
As the short yet long story ends, the dwarf pats Misha on the back with a more serious attitude than usual.
Misha also doesn’t act as prickly as before.
It’s more like she’s a tamed cat, I guess?
“Hikurod… you were genuinely angry because you considered us as companions.”
What, is that how it works?
As a pessimist, I find it difficult to follow their emotional line.
“Hahaha! Now that you mention it, I should share my story too. I dreamed of becoming a blacksmith. But I had no talent, so I couldn’t even become an apprentice after 10 years. That’s why I became an explorer after I turned thirty! I still had to make money, so I took the opportunity and ran away.”
Perhaps impressed by Misha’s confession, the dwarf also shares his own story nonchalantly, and next is Dwarkey.
“No one could be as talentless as me. Although my family was well-off, so I was able to start learning magic, I couldn’t enter the Magic Tower because of my lack of talent. If I were a proper mage… he would have at least shown me some respect.”
Dwarkey then reveals that his goal is to earn money as an explorer and learn more magic.
And just when I thought the conversation was over…
“I’ve been on many teams, but this is a first.”
Rotmiller, who had been silent, chuckles and reignites the dying embers.
“I also have something to apologize for. When Murad and Miss Kaltstein talked about their years of experience the other day, I felt anger rising within me.”
“Th, there was such a thing?”
“Yes. It was my ugly jealousy. I thought they were both lucky to be born as other races, complaining about being slow or fast without even knowing their circumstances.”
Human explorers also have advantages.
First of all, they can use Aura, they can become Spirit Masters, mages, or priests.
A few who are born with it even have physiques as large as barbarians.
They practically have all the advantages of every race.
But that’s just one possibility, and it’s only the story of a small number of people with special talents.
“Hahaha! So our team is a gathering of misfits? That’s good then, we don’t have to feel inferior to each other anymore.”
The dwarf laughs awkwardly and lightens the mood.
And at his words…
“That’s definitely true.”
Dwarkey, the talentless mage, is happy.
“I’ll work harder from now on to be helpful to the team!”
And Misha, the pureblood who can’t handle Spirit Beasts, is touched.
“Although it’s not something I should be thinking about on the 3rd day of our first journey, I hope this team lasts for a long time.”
Rotmiller, the epitome of ordinariness, the 8-year veteran human explorer, feels the same way. Everyone acknowledges their shortcomings, opens up, and consoles each other.
And as a result, the gazes naturally turn to me, who hasn’t confessed anything yet.
“…….”
“…….”
It’s as if they’re asking if I have nothing to say.
‘Uh, I don’t have anything like that…’
I feel like I need to say something to avoid being ostracized from the team…
Flustered by the attention, I blurt out whatever comes to mind.
“I, I don’t have a mother!”
-------------------------------
Chapter 53: Team of Misfits (3)
After the shocking confession that I don’t have a mother…
“Uh, uh…”
“I, I see…?”
An awkward silence falls, and bewildered gazes are directed at me.
I quickly add an explanation.
“My mother passed away after giving birth to me. And my father never returned from the labyrinth when I was young. So even though I’ve become an adult, I can’t meet them even if I want to!”
For your information, the story I just told is 100% true, something I heard from Ainar.
“Oh my…”
“You must have gone through a lot at a young age.”
Is it because it was a confession from the youngest barbarian in the team, who just finished his coming-of-age ceremony?
A look of sympathy starts to appear in their eyes as they look at me.
“Bjorn, you don’t have to pretend to be fine in front of us.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t know you had such circumstances, and I talked about family…”
“Bjorn, I can’t be your parents, but if you want—”
What is this guy saying?
I decide not to listen to the rest of the dwarf’s words.
“It’s fine.”
Although I suddenly feel like I’ve become the most pitiful one among them… well, what can I do? I don’t have to worry about it since it’s not true.
It’s not like I really don’t have a mother.
And most importantly, I’m a munchkin barbarian who has become a 7th-grade explorer in just 3 months, following an elite course, unlike these guys.
The most important thing is always the essence, the essence.
‘Hmm, but come to think of it, am I really the most pitiful one?’
I suddenly have the thought that it might be true.
I was dragged into this game world that I never wanted to be in and had to overcome several life-threatening situations.
Damn, why is my life so miserable?
“Bjorn, your expression isn’t good! Are you thinking about your mother?”
“Yeah, something like that…”
“If you miss your family, you can call me your sister—”
I cut off the cat-eared girl’s words as she tries to go on and on and get to the point.
“Anyway, what are we going to do now?”
We can’t hunt in the Orc Encampment, our first destination, because of those bastards.
Of course, they said it was okay if we stayed in the outer area, but how much would we be left with if we hunted at this pace and split the loot five ways?
“I think it would be best to go to the Witch’s Forest.”
The dwarf, acting like the leader, suggests an idea.
The Witch’s Forest refers to the vast forest surrounding the portal leading to the 4th floor.
Monsters of 7th to 8th grade mainly appear there, and among them, there are even incorporeal monsters with physical immunity.
“Of course, it’s not a good match for us since we have many melee warriors, but it shouldn’t be too bad with a mage.”
“Hmm, in that case, wouldn’t it be better to just go up to the 4th floor?”
Rotmiller, who had been listening attentively, suggests a new idea.
I also think this is a better option than the dwarf’s idea.
The Witch’s Forest is generally seen as an area that explorers have to pass through out of necessity, and its advantages as a main hunting ground are minimal.
‘And there are no essences that I can absorb among the ones that drop there.’
However, the problem is that the dwarf doesn’t seem to like this option at all.
“The 4th floor… is a bit too early.”
I also understand the dwarf’s concerns.
7th and 8th-grade monsters mainly appear on the 3rd floor. And it’s the same on the 4th floor.
However, there’s a crucial difference between the two.
“As I’ve said repeatedly during our meetings, I’ve seen many teams get wiped out because they underestimated the 4th floor and went up too hastily. One time, my team almost met the same fate.”
The presence of 6th-grade monsters.
From the 4th floor onwards, there’s a slim chance of encountering 6th-grade monsters.
The encounter rate is about once every three days if you spend the whole day exploring, but…
It ultimately means that if you operate on the 4th floor, you’ll inevitably encounter a 6th-grade monster.
‘Whether or not you have the strength to overcome that one encounter… that’s the tricky part.’
Even in the game, there were many times when I entered the 4th floor with a barely sufficient level and ended up paying the price.
So the dwarf’s words do make sense.
“It’s not too late to decide on going to the 4th floor after we’ve coordinated for a few more days.”
Regardless of the deep emotional connection or increased bond that we’ve formed through this incident…
We’re a newly formed team.
It’s only been 3 days since we entered the labyrinth, and we’re still not used to each other.
“And as you know, this is Dwarkey’s first time, and it’s also Bjorn’s first time reaching the 3rd floor.”
To summarize, the dwarf’s argument is that going to the 4th floor is fine, but we shouldn’t be too hasty.
“Hmm, then we can just go to a different area on the 3rd floor, right? The Greentail Wetlands seem like a good option…”
Misha, who had been listening to the debate with a troubled expression, suggests a new idea.
And she’s immediately rejected by Rotmiller.
“If we had taken that route from the beginning, it would be different, but going to the Greentail Wetlands now would take at least six days.”
The labyrinth closes after 7 days on the 1st floor, 10 days on the 2nd floor, and 15 days on the 3rd floor.
But to invest more than 7 days in travel now? It means that even if we leave now, we’ll only be able to hunt for 5 days.
“In that case, it might be a better option to go back to Steelrock Hill.”
“Is, is that so? I didn’t know since I’ve just been following along…”
Misha scratches her cheek with an awkward smile at Rotmiller’s expert-like words.
Tsk, I kept listening to their conversation just in case, but nothing much came of it.
It’s time for me to step in and wrap things up.
“How long are we going to just stand here and talk? We’ve talked enough, so everyone gather around. Let’s decide what to do by majority vote.”
“Majority vote?”
“Why? Do you prefer rock-paper-scissors, Rotmiller?”
“No, but that’s a bit…”
Rotmiller makes a disgusted expression at my question. I was just joking, asking if there’s a better way…
Is it because I’m a barbarian?
Unfortunately, no one seems to have realized that it was a joke.
“I agree with deciding by majority vote.”
“It’s simple, but it’s the most reliable method.”
“I’m fine with anything!”
Anyway, we conclude that we’ll decide our next move by majority vote.
And I’m the first to cast my vote.
“I think it would be good to go up to the 4th floor.”
I judge that taking the initiative will help sway the opinion even a little bit.
“…Suddenly, the 4th floor feels dangerous. It feels like we’re making a hasty decision.”
“Uh, Miss Kaltstein thinks so too?”
“…….”
Regardless of their reactions, we each take turns stating our opinions, and the conclusion is reached quickly.
“Whew, since you all have the same opinion, there’s no point in being stubborn.”
We’re going to the 4th floor.
_________________________________________
Despite the dwarf’s concerns, there’s a reason why I pushed for this decision.
Of course, this decision was made by majority vote, but…
It doesn’t really matter.
If I had judged that entering the 4th floor was too early, I would have made them stay on the 3rd floor even if it meant crushing their self-esteem.
“Hmm? It feels like it suddenly got a bit colder…”
“Hmm, already? We still have a long way to go before reaching the Witch’s Forest…”
“No, it feels different from that, I can’t really explain it.”
Under Rotmiller’s guidance, we continue to trudge through the darkness towards our destination.
The dwarf still has a troubled expression.
‘He wasn’t like this in the Crimson Fortress, but he’s become overly cautious lately.’
Is it because it’s his first time as a team leader, and he even personally met and chose each team member? He seems to be carrying a strange sense of responsibility.
There’s no need for that since he’s just a figurehead leader…
‘Well, maybe it’s because he doesn’t know I have the vampire essence?’
The dwarf doesn’t know my exact specs.
So he would be a bit more apprehensive about going straight to the 4th floor.
The fact that he hasn’t realized how good his Numbered Item, the ‘Guardian’s Bracers’, is, must have also played a part.
“Hikurod, when we enter the Witch’s Forest, don’t hesitate to use ‘that’ thing.”
The dwarf shows a look of contemplation at my advice, and then nods with determination in his eyes.
“I’ll do as you say.”
No. 3112 Guardian’s Bracers is a high-grade equipment piece worth a whopping 50 million stones.
And as the saying goes, ‘seeing is believing’.
The dwarf asked us not to reveal to the other team members that he possesses such a valuable item.
‘But there’s no point in having it if he can’t use it when he needs to.’
It’s not like I’m the owner anyway.
We were just having a sentimental moment about relying on each other a while ago, weren’t we?
“What do you mean by ‘that’? What is it? Why are you guys talking about something only the two of you know!”
“You’ll find out when the time comes.”
I roughly ignore Misha’s curiosity and do a final check.
‘If the tank line’s specs are this good, we should be fine against 6th-grade monsters. The problem is the damage dealer line…’
Their specs are a bit lacking, but I’ve gained some confidence after hunting with them for a while in the Orc Encampment.
As long as the front line is solid, we should be fine even against 6th-grade monsters with this team composition.
‘As long as they don’t troll from the back and die first.’
There were a lot of NPCs like that when I played the game.
These guys won’t be like that… right?
‘Ah, damn it, I’m getting anxious again?’
Unlike me, who is belatedly worried, Misha looks slightly excited.
“It’s been a while since I’ve been to the 4th floor, so I’m a bit excited!”
I hear that this is her first time returning to the 4th floor since the team she was on disbanded a year ago…
But is it because she’s a cat-person?
I feel like I can hear purring sounds whenever she exhales.
“We should start looking for a place to camp.”
As we move along the outskirts of the Orc Encampment, it’s time to take a break.
“Rotmiller, everyone seems to have stamina left, how about we move a bit further?”
“We’ll have to travel for three more hours to find a better place than this.”
“Hmm, alright then.”
For reference, it’s around 9:00 PM, which is almost the same time we camped on Day 1 and Day 2.
Honestly, I’m quite impressed.
‘Is this what a skilled scout is like?’
Rotmiller must have considered camping points based on our route and adjusted our movement speed accordingly.
Even though there’s no day or night in the labyrinth, it’s still better to keep rest times consistent.
“Rotmiller, what’s the schedule for tomorrow?”
“I think we’ll be able to reach the Witch’s Forest by tomorrow afternoon.”
Hmm, then we’ll enter the 4th floor the day after tomorrow.
He answers immediately without any buffering, like a human GPS.
“Bjorn, you were the last watch, right? You’ll have to suffer quite a bit once we enter the forest tomorrow, so get some rest today.”
“Alright.”
Today’s first watch is the dwarf, and the last watch is me.
Since the Witch’s Forest is a place where melee warriors have to suffer the most, it was decided that way regardless of the order.
Well, even if I sleep, I’ll probably wake up once or twice.
_________________________________________
“Bjorn.”
I open my eyes at the whispering voice.
I see Rotmiller’s face under the flickering torchlight.
So, Rotmiller was the one before me…
“…Is it my turn now?”
“Not yet.”
“Then why…”
As I’m rubbing my sleepy eyes…
I freeze.
Dwarkey, the dwarf, and even Misha. All the team members except for me are already awake.
And they’re all armed.
I ask briefly,
“Monsters?”
“Both.”
Monsters and explorers…
Just as I’m about to ask how far away they are, I hear an urgent shout from beyond the darkness in the distance.
“Damn it! To chase us all the way here…”
“Run!”
It seems like they’re explorers being chased by monsters…
Rotmiller closes his eyes and sniffs, then mutters briefly,
“Now I understand for sure.”
“What do you mean?”
He usually frowns when something is wrong, so I can’t help but feel uneasy.
And as expected…
“The ones heading towards us… I’m sure they’re the ones we encountered when we arrived at Steelrock Hill.”
This situation is getting interesting.
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Chapter 54: The Witch's Forest (1)
“So you’re saying those guys are the marauders from before?”
Rotmiller nods at the dwarf’s question. And with that, the situation becomes clear.
There’s no way it’s a coincidence that the bastards who were brazenly looting on the 3rd floor just happened to be chased by monsters and ended up coming our way.
“Someone’s targeting us specifically.”
“Although we don’t know why. They’re probably trying to slip in among us by pretending to be chased.”
Rotmiller agrees with my words and adds his opinion.
I think the same way.
“Th, then what are we going to do?!”
What do you mean, what are we going to do?
Thanks to Rotmiller, we were able to figure out their scheme early on.
“We should use this opportunity.”
“Use it?”
Misha tilts her head.
However, there’s no time to explain the reason in detail.
It seems like they’ve already arrived.
“Li, light! There’s light!”
With a man’s shout, three men and women covered in blood and sweat rush into the radius of our torches.
“If you’re not confident in acting, just stay quiet and watch.”
I whisper and make eye contact with Rotmiller. He nods slightly.
As expected, this man and I are on the same wavelength.
It seems like even the dwarf, who I was worried about, understands exactly what I meant.
Then shall we begin?
“Don’t come any closer.”
I raise my shield and step forward to block their path as I see them running towards us.
“Pl, please! Our party was wiped out. Help us! We’ll reward you…”
Their expressions are desperate and urgent.
This guy is a good actor.
Well, that’s only natural for a marauder, right?
“Put down your weapons.”
“Bu, but there are monsters behind us!”
The human man in his early thirties points behind him.
The orc group that was chasing them from beyond the range of our torches is staring at us.
“Kriiik, kriiik!”
They hesitate to approach because the number of people has increased, but who knows how long that will last.
So let us in quickly.
It’s obvious that’s what the man is trying to say, but so what?
“It’s your choice. Either put down your weapons or get lost.”
I say firmly once again, and they don’t answer easily.
Well, of course they would hesitate.
“…….”
In the labyrinth, weapons are the same as life.
They might even be suspecting that we haven’t figured them out yet.
But it doesn’t matter.
No matter what choice they make, we have nothing to lose.
“…We’ll put them down.”
The mustached man makes a decision and drops his weapon to the ground, and the other two follow suit.
‘So they’ve decided to be greedy.’
While I’m satisfied with their choice, I’m also a bit worried. To target us while taking such a risk?
I can’t even guess why.
“Alright, then come slowly in that state. Preferably with everyone spread out.”
“Isn’t there a need to go this far? We’re just asking for help…”
“If you want help, do as you’re told.”
“Alright.”
After they arrive one by one as instructed, Rotmiller approaches and checks for any hidden weapons.
“…There doesn’t seem to be anything that could pose a threat.”
“I see. Murad, keep an eye on them.”
“Ah, alright!”
The dwarf nods with a stiff expression and walks over with his arms and legs in perfect alignment, like a North Korean soldier.
I sigh inwardly, but…
Fortunately, looking at their expressions, they don’t seem to have noticed anything strange about his behavior.
“Kriiik, kriiik…”
“Kriik, kriik, kriik—!”
Afterwards, I leave the three marauders to the dwarf and keep an eye on the orcs, and soon they turn around and leave.
The orcs have judged that fighting this many people is too risky.
‘Those monster bastards are all cunning.’
Well, they’re not as bad as human bastards, though.
Anyway, avoiding an unnecessary battle is good news for us.
It would be tiring to have to worry about fighting orcs on top of this new problem.
“Ugh, I thought I was going to die…”
As soon as the orcs disappear, the woman among the three collapses to the ground with a sigh.
But did she finally come to her senses?
She gets up with an ‘oops’ expression and bows politely to us.
“Ah! My name is Elisa. Thank you for saving us!”
However, is it because of her cleavage, clearly visible through her torn top?
“Keu, ahem. I’m Hikurod Murad.”
The dwarf clears his throat and turns his head away.
It doesn’t seem like he’s faking his innocence.
His head is turned, but his gaze is still fixed on one spot.
“Mr. Murad, it is! Then what is this gentleman’s name?”
“I am Bjorn, son of Yandel.”
“Ah, I see!”
The woman who introduced herself as Elisa approaches me and grabs my hand.
And she bows again, just like before.
Of course, her cleavage is emphasized once more.
“Haa, I really owe you my life! I can’t imagine what would have happened if we hadn’t met you…”
She speaks in a voice that tickles my ears, and her ragged breaths hit my face.
Now that I think about it, the reason why her top is particularly torn among the three of them must be for this purpose…
“Bjorn! Your eyes are wandering!”
Misha misunderstands my true intentions and mutters.
However, I don’t bother clearing up the misunderstanding right now.
There will be an opportunity soon.
“State your names one by one.”
First, to dispel any suspicion from them, I start with a simple background check.
The mustached man, who I assume is the leader, introduces himself first.
“Hans Argo.”
What?
“…Hans?”
“It’s a common name, is there someone with the same name?”
“Ah, um, well… something like that.”
I nod awkwardly.
Hans A was crushed to death by my shield.
I haven’t seen Hans B since I received advice from him at the bar.
And Hans C, the mustached man I met today, seems like he’ll be following in A’s footsteps.
Anyway, let’s move on to the next one.
“My name is Irita Tyson.”
Tyson, the tall blonde spearman.
I estimate his age to be in his mid-twenties, and I can’t find any particular characteristics.
If I had to say something, he seems polite?
“It was a situation where we thought it was the end, but thanks to you, we were saved. Thank you once again.”
When Spearman Tyson bows 90 degrees, Elisa exaggerates in her characteristically natural tone.
“It’s true! If it weren’t for you, who knows what kind of situation we would be in now… Leathlas must be watching over us!”
“Leathlas?”
Rotmiller flinches at that one word.
And he cautiously speaks to Elisa.
“Perhaps… so Miss Elisa is—”
“Ah, I haven’t told you my last name yet. I’m Elisa Behenk. As you can see…”
Elisa trails off and checks her attire, then makes a sad face.
Her originally white outfit is now torn and stained with sweat and dirt.
“…It might not look like it, but I serve Leathlas!”
“Huh!”
“So you really were a priestess.”
The dwarf lets out a short exclamation, while Rotmiller closes his eyes and briefly makes the sign of the cross in front of Elisa.
Wow, this man is a good actor.
“May the star that rises at twilight guide us…”
“Yes, may the star that rises at twilight guide us.”
Did she think it was a done deal?
Elisa smiles brightly and makes the sign of the cross, facing him. And with that, the wary atmosphere instantly dissipates.
Well, at least that’s how it seems to them.
‘We all know that there’s no way she’s a real priest—’
“Lady Elisa, if you don’t mind, could you take a look at my wound?”
What?
“I’m sorry! I should have helped you with that first…”
Wait, is she actually a priestess, not an imposter?
As I’m startled by this unexpected turn of events, Hans C lifts his shirt and shows a stab wound.
Elisa chants a prayer and places her hand, which starts to glow white, on the wound.
And what do you know?
Swaaaaa-
The wound actually heals instantly.
It’s genuine divine power that I can’t deny, even though I was watching with suspicion.
How can I be so sure when I’ve never seen it before?
First of all, the sound of healing is different from potions, and just look at Hans C’s expression.
Isn’t it serene, as if he’s not feeling any pain at all?
“May the star that rises at twilight guide us…”
Perhaps it was an unexpected development for him as well.
Rotmiller, who was momentarily flustered, comes to his senses and repeatedly makes the sign of the cross.
It’s a reaction like a believer who has just witnessed a miracle.
It seems a bit excessive to me, but in the context of this world, it’s a normal reaction.
Just like other races grow up in sanctuaries, most human children learn to read and gain knowledge through temples from a young age.
The weight of the title ‘priest’ is different.
“Ah! Then can we get our weapons back now?”
Elisa asks innocently.
Her tone is as if she just realized they don’t have their weapons. I guess showing off her divine power was a stepping stone for this.
The reason they boldly discarded their weapons earlier must have been because they believed in this.
But what a shame.
“That’s not possible.”
“Ye, yes?”
I look at her bewildered expression and act nonchalantly.
There’s no need to reveal that I already know their true identities.
“I understand that you’re a real priestess. But so what?”
I’m a barbarian who believes in the ancestor god.
I haven’t received anything from priests, so it’s not strange for me to react like this.
Elisa smiles awkwardly and looks at Rotmiller and Dwarkey, who are both human.
It seems like she’s trying to ask for their help…
But I firmly shut down any room for negotiation.
“You’ll get your weapons back when they leave after paying compensation.”
“Co, compensation?”
“Why are you surprised? Whether you’re a priestess or whatever, you’re an explorer as long as you’re in the labyrinth. You have to follow the customs.”
“Ah, ye-es… I heard there was such a custom. Then… how much should we pay?”
I pretend to think for a moment and then say,
“About 2 million stones should be enough.”
“…Wh, what?”
Elisa asks back as if she misheard.
But I’m righteous.
“It’s not an unreasonable demand, is it?”
Hell, this is considered lenient.
I’ve heard that some assholes take all the equipment as payment for sparing their lives.
“Don’t be so stingy, think of it as the price for your lives.”
“But… we don’t have that much money…”
I already know that.
Who would carry cash around when they enter the labyrinth?
Since I got the expected answer, it’s time to make my next move.
“We won’t ask you to lower the price. At least once we get outside—”
“No. I don’t trust anyone but my own kind. Pay with goods if you don’t have the money.”
“…Goods?”
“Hmm, that man’s armor seems like it would be enough.”
I point at Hans C with my index finger, and Hans frowns. However, after exchanging glances with Elisa, he sighs deeply.
“Whew, alright, if this is what it takes to save our lives, it’s not a bad deal. But there’s one condition. We’ll stay with you tonight until our fatigue is gone.”
“Alright.”
I readily nod.
Their intentions are obvious, but it’s not like it’s a promise I’m actually going to keep, so what’s the problem?
“Irita, will you help me?”
“I will.”
With the help of the spearman next to him, Hans C, who has taken off his heavy armor, hands the equipment to Rotmiller.
Alright, I’ve at least stripped one of them of their armor.
‘I think this is the most we can take from them…’
“So, now that we’ve paid, will you give us back our weapons?”
I can’t hold it in any longer and smile brightly.
Honestly, I didn’t expect things to go so smoothly, but…
“…Why are you smiling?”
Hans C asks with a stiff expression.
I don’t bother answering.
Just like I didn’t clear up Misha’s misunderstanding about my gaze towards Elisa earlier.
They’ll find out soon enough.
“Um, Mr. Yandel? It will be difficult for us if you ask for more—”
“Ah, I won’t do that.”
I answer and then smash Elisa’s head with my mace.
Thwack!
“El, Lady Elisa!!!”
In any game, it’s a universal rule to smash the healer’s head first.