C130, 131, 132
Chapter 130: Kaltstein (4)
What does the master truly want from me?
This has been a constant question.
I have a guess, but it’s not at a level where I can be certain.
So, Plan B.
I planned to have Misha come out in front of everyone.
It’s the thing the master would dislike the most in the current situation.
‘Right, the best way to hinder someone is to prevent them from doing what they want to do.’
The master wanted to keep Misha’s awakening a secret, both internally and externally. That’s why he hurriedly appeared before Plan B could be executed.
And as a result of having a barbarian-style conversation…
…I was finally able to hear his unfiltered true intentions.
“I know you used that item.”
The Frost Spirit Ring.
It’s a Numbered Item that allows you to make a guaranteed contract with the Glacier Beast Skadi when you activate the hidden piece.
‘It wouldn’t be strange for the chieftain to know about it.’
It was a possibility I had already considered.
If he didn’t think I used ‘that item’, there would be no reason for him to treat Misha like an outsider.
However, the master isn’t certain either.
“That item? What are you talking about?”
A twenty-five-year-old Red Cat beastman.
The probability of naturally making a contract with Skadi with those conditions is practically 0%…
But ‘close to’ and 0 are different.
“Hmm.”
So he’s testing me.
He has suspicions but no evidence.
“Your acting is clumsy.”
Clumsy my ass.
I’ve fooled countless people so far.
“What are you talking about? Speak in a way I can understand.”
“I’m talking about ‘that item’ that allows you to make a contract with the Glacier Beast Skadi. You can’t deny knowing about it, can you?”
The master stares at me with a look that says, ‘don’t lie, I know everything’.
Does he think barbarians are idiots?
“There’s such an item? Then why didn’t you give it to Misha?”
“Because it’s a very valuable item. There’s no way I would give it to someone who’s not even my child.”
As soon as I hear those words, I involuntarily look at Misha.
As expected, she looks like she’s about to cry.
But I decide to comfort her later.
I continue acting like a clueless barbarian.
“Valuable item? Then it’s even stranger. How could I possibly have such an item?”
“Well, maybe you obtained it by chance from that Magic Tower you frequent.”
What the, damn it.
Does he really know everything?
My body stiffens involuntarily.
So I decide to glare at the master to make up for my mistake.
“…Did you even investigate me?”
Just a barbarian who’s pissed off by his crossing the line.
This shouldn’t make my previous action seem too awkward—
“I told you, your acting is clumsy.”
Bullshit, I believe in my acting skills.
I don’t budge and ask back in annoyance,
“So what is that item? What is it that you’re bothering me so much for?”
“I can’t tell you.”
“What?”
“You keep denying it. It’s an item that shouldn’t be known to outsiders. If you admit it, then I’ll tell you.”
Huh? What?
There’s no inconsistency in the master’s words.
If he’s just testing me, it’s only natural that he can’t tell me the name of the item.
But…
‘Why does it feel so strange?’
I feel a strong sense of dissonance.
My intuition, honed from defeating countless bastards who tried to exploit me, is telling me that something is wrong.
“Does that item even exist? Or do you actually have another purpose?”
Therefore, I ask again.
And I focus all my senses on observing the master.
A momentary hesitation, a change in his facial muscles. Where is his gaze directed, and how does his voice sound?
“Of course it exists. What other purpose could there be?”
I observe every moment of his brief answer with suspicious eyes, although I’m not an expert.
And I instinctively realize it.
The master is lying right now.
‘Ha, so this was it.’
Thanks to that, the last question I had is answered.
He could have tested me in other ways.
“Be honest. If you’re keeping quiet because you’re worried about this child, I’ll take care of it.”
Why is the master even saying these contradictory things?
Everything makes sense now.
If his goal wasn’t Misha, but ‘that item’ itself.
‘No wonder he kept saying ‘that item’.’
I finally understand the situation.
The master invited me to the mansion.
Whether Misha was his real daughter or not didn’t matter.
He didn’t seem like the type to be very devoted to his children anyway.
He had a different goal.
An item that guarantees a contract with a Spirit Beast.
If I really knew about this item…
…he wanted to find out about it.
After all, it would be information of immeasurable value to beastmen.
So he showed me Misha’s pitiful situation, which he judged to be my Achilles’ heel.
He was probably planning to use it for negotiation or blackmail.
Therefore…
“I swear on my honor as a warrior, I don’t know anything about such an item.”
I throw out my trump card that I’ve been saving.
The warrior’s oath, the number one reason why I chose to be a barbarian.
“…….”
A look of bewilderment appears in the master’s eyes.
Confirming that, I add one last blow before missing the timing.
“But I’ll definitely find out what that item is. So just wait.”
I mutter as if suppressing my anger and check the master’s expression.
His eyes are filled with deep disappointment.
Geez, he’s the worst actor here.
“Forget everything we talked about today.”
I leave the Kaltstein mansion after the master’s announcement. Misha has been dazed since earlier, and I don’t bother talking to her.
I have things to think about.
‘Phew, at least it didn’t go to the worst-case scenario.’
There were two reasons why I readily agreed when I received the invitation from the Kaltstein family.
1. Misha’s defection.
If the master was planning to put Misha in a large clan, I had to stop him. Erwen, Ainar, and now even Misha, whom I finally raised, leaving?
It’s a horrifying thought.
2. Avoiding suspicion of being an evil spirit.
If the master knew the secret behind Misha’s awakening, I had to visit at least once to explain it properly.
I didn’t expect him to only know half of it and call me because of that, though.
Creak.
The gatekeeper, who recognized us, opens the main gate as we pass through the garden. The bald guy from before must have gone to rest after receiving treatment, as it’s a new face.
But did he recognize me?
“Ah, goodbye.”
He gives a brief bow as we make eye contact.
The mansion where Misha lived from childhood to adulthood.
The well-maintained garden is colorful, and the fountain sprays water gracefully, sparkling.
The mansion itself is no different.
It’s a grand and elegant building, unlike the inn I’m staying at.
But…
…the dark malice surrounding the mansion is unchanged.
Just like when I first saw this place, it feels like I’m looking at a dungeon filled with monsters.
I realize once again…
Right, she survived in this place.
For all those years.
“You did well.”
I pat her on the back and say that, and Misha comes to her senses and shakes her head.
“Ah, no. You’re the one who did well…”
Hmm, that’s not what I meant.
“But you must have been the one who had the hardest time.”
I chuckle and pat her on the back again.
“Ack! That hurts!”
Right, now she’s back to normal.
“If you’ve come to your senses, lead the way. I don’t know the way back.”
“Ha, really… what would you do without me?”
“I wouldn’t have come to a place where I don’t know the way.”
“…That’s true.”
We chat idly as we walk through the beastman district.
We see heartwarming scenes everywhere.
“Daddy, look! It’s that barbarian from before!”
Beastmen families are walking around, laughing and chatting happily.
“Bjorn, let’s eat that too.”
“Why are you buying food outside?”
“Hmm, well… because you worked hard today?”
We stop by a street vendor and buy snacks, then sit on a bench in the plaza. Although we could eat while walking…
…it wouldn’t hurt to rest for a bit.
“You know, Bjorn.”
“Speak.”
“Why don’t you ever ask?”
“Ask what?”
We rest quietly, watching the beastmen passing by, and then…
…Misha asks me a question.
“Aren’t you even curious?”
“So what is it?”
“That… whether I’m really, Father’s child…”
So this was it.
I chuckle and look at Misha.
Although she didn’t do anything wrong, she hangs her head low and stares at the ground, as if she’s the one who asked the question.
“I’m not curious.”
“Really? Not at all?”
“Yeah, why would that be important?”
“Wow, you really don’t care about me…”
What is she talking about?
I’m about to hit her on the back, but I stop.
‘I shouldn’t hurt her, right?’
I consider ruffling her hair like in a cartoon, but I stop because it’s too cringe-worthy.
My hand, which lost its destination, returns to my lap.
I look away and say to Misha,
I should at least clear up the misunderstanding since she’s my companion.
“It’s not that I don’t care, it’s just that it’s not important.”
“Huh?”
“Misha Kaltstein, the 7th-grade explorer. That’s you, isn’t it? It doesn’t matter who your parents are. The fact that you’re a companion I can trust and rely on doesn’t change.”
“Wow…”
Misha opens her mouth wide as if she heard something amazing.
And she looks at me with a bright smile.
“How did you think of that?”
“…Do you want to fight?”
If that’s the case, then it’s a good thing.
Just as I’m about to get up after resting enough…
Misha grabs my sleeve.
“Bjorn.”
“What?”
“This is a secret, I’m only telling you.”
“Enough, just say it quickly.”
“I… I’m actually a half-breed. My mom told me. Before she passed away. She said she was really sorry.”
Ah, uh, hmm…
I contemplate how to react and then just nod.
“…I see.”
“What? Why aren’t you surprised?”
Because I already knew.
Although I didn’t know the details.
“It’s not that important, is it?”
“Ugh, you insensitive barbarian!”
We then get up from our seats.
And we leave the sanctuary and enter the city, arriving at the public transportation platform.
However, just as we’re buying tickets and waiting for the carriage…
“Ah, right. What about that? You made a promise in front of Father. That… definitely…”
Misha trails off.
I’m genuinely flustered.
Maybe because she’s become too comfortable, or maybe because she had a lot on her mind in front of her father…
…but I didn’t even think about it.
“That… was a lie, right?”
I sigh and nod.
What’s the point of hiding it when she already knows?
I just have to handle it well.
“Yeah, it was a lie. You’re more important than a warrior’s honor.”
“…Is that true?”
“Yeah.”
Misha doesn’t say anything for a long time after that.
The time passes, filled with an awkward silence.
“…….”
“…….”
Don’t tell me, she’s thinking something strange?
Just as I’m thinking that I should say something first to break the suffocating silence…
“Ah!”
…Misha jumps up.
And she says something incomprehensible…
“I, I left something at home, so I’ll be back!”
“…What? The carriage is coming so—”
“You go ahead!”
…and disappears in a flash.
…What?
Don’t tell me, I’m fucked?
________________
Flip, flip.
Albreniv Kaltstein.
He sits in his study, flipping through the pages of a book with somewhat hurried movements.
And he finally finds the part he was looking for.
[No……]
…contract with the Glacier Beast Skadi.
It’s a description where he can only read one sentence because the rest is completely torn out.
All his suspicions started from this book.
[Compendium of Artifacts VI]
This book contains descriptions of hundreds of Numbered Items.
And the important thing is that the descriptions are never wrong.
That's what the Compendium is.
A book of truth, whose value can't even be measured.
‘If I hadn’t known about this, I would have been genuinely happy.’
When she told me that she had awakened.
Honestly, he was happy.
He thought he wouldn’t have to hide the shame of the family anymore.
[So it’s the Glacier Beast, Skadi.]
The problem was the Spirit Beast she contracted with.
Could this be a coincidence?
He couldn’t shake off the feeling that something was off.
So he tested her several times, and then he came to a conclusion.
She didn’t awaken naturally.
If his prediction was correct, she received help.
Probably from that barbarian, Bjorn Yandel.
[I, I can’t talk about anything related to Bjorn. I sw, swore to the guardian deity…]
However, she refused to talk about it, mentioning the guardian deity’s oath.
It’s something that has no binding power, and in this day and age where traditions have faded, it holds no meaning.
But she, who had never even properly rebelled before, lied while even making such an excuse.
It would be difficult to get a proper answer from her.
[It would be better to question that barbarian.]
He changed the direction of his investigation.
And suspicious circumstances continued to appear.
That barbarian was close to a mage from the Artemion school.
Arrua Raven.
Coincidentally, it was someone he remembered.
She was a competitor he met while searching for another ‘Compendium’.
A hypothesis came to mind.
What if that mage obtained the ‘Compendium of Artifacts’?
And she told the barbarian about it?
[That makes much more sense.]
He decided to target the barbarian instead of the bold mage girl. Since they seemed to be practically living together, it would be much easier if he used her.
But…
‘To think it was a natural awakening.’
He wasn’t fooled by the oath or anything.
That barbarian wasn’t acting.
He had a genuinely clueless expression, and he felt a sense of regret for his ignorance for her sake.
‘Interesting. So even that insignificant bloodline had some talent.’
Just as that thought crossed his mind, someone knocked on the door.
It was his assistant, Veros.
“Misha Kaltstein requests an audience with the master.”
“Her? Let her in immediately.”
After a short wait, the assistant left, and she entered.
“I… there’s something I couldn’t say earlier—”
“Ah, don’t worry about that. I’ll keep my promise. No one will think you’re not a member of our family anymore.”
Strangely, she didn’t react at all.
He thought she would be a bit happier.
He added,
“It means you’re my daughter now.”
The words that she must have longed for, feeling a sense of lack and love-hate.
But it was the same this time too.
“…Why aren’t you saying anything?”
“Because I didn’t come here for something like that…!”
“What?”
He was genuinely surprised by her disrespectful tone.
What is this change?
Before he could even adjust, she looked him straight in the eyes.
“Father. No, you’re not even my father. Don’t you know? That we’re not even related by a drop of blood.”
“What?”
He was truly surprised.
Not because it was something he didn’t know, but because it came from her mouth.
“My mother told me before she passed away. That I’m not actually of the Kaltstein bloodline. I came here to tell you that. I hate you… but I also feel sorry for you.”
Was it because it was something he had never imagined?
He didn’t even feel angry at her bold words.
He was just curious.
“Why are you doing this?”
He knew who Misha’s biological father was.
He thought everything would be resolved if she died in the labyrinth.
But…
“If you hadn’t said that, I was planning to truly accept you as a member of the family.”
She’s rejecting it even though she’s being given what she longed for.
“Why? Why are you throwing away this opportunity?”
She turns her back on him as if it’s not even worth answering and heads towards the door.
But did she have a change of heart at the last moment?
She turns her head slightly and says to him,
“I just… felt like it!”
It was a statement he couldn’t understand at all.
----------------------------------
Chapter 131: Team Play (1)
Ten days have passed since I visited the Kaltstein residence.
On the first day, I was worried that Misha might have told her father everything…
[What?! Are you crazy?! You barbarian! How could you say something like that!!]
[Then what did you do there?]
[That’s…! You don’t need to know!!]
…but it was an unnecessary worry.
I don’t know why she’s keeping it a secret, but I could definitely feel that nothing like that happened.
I decided to focus on the immediate problem.
There are two ticking time bombs in the team.
[Dwarkey, let’s talk.]
The day after returning from the Kaltstein residence, I met with Dwarkey right away.
And I spoke indirectly while drinking.
[What? Is it true? That Misha likes chubby men?]
[Yes, she definitely said that last time.]
[I, I see. Thank you for telling me. I, I almost made a mistake by being too hasty.]
For reference, Dwarkey ordered a lot of food after that conversation and stuffed himself until his stomach was bulging.
One problem solved.
‘He won’t confess until he gains some weight.’
We’ve bought at least a month or two.
Dwarkey’s personality is such that he won’t have the courage unless he gains a significant amount of weight.
And by the time he does, Misha and I will be leaving the team.
‘This makes me feel like a real asshole…’
But it can’t be helped.
If his mental state were strong, it might be different…
But what if he confesses to Misha and gets rejected?
He won’t be able to focus even in the labyrinth.
And that could put the team in danger.
‘Uh, but why am I so sure that he’ll get rejected?’
That question suddenly comes to mind, but I don’t think about it too deeply. Sometimes, the data accumulated in the subconscious makes the most accurate predictions.
Anyway, next is Rotmiller.
[Be careful. My father must have done something to that Rotmiller.]
Julian Urbans, the Regional Manager’s daughter.
If her words are true and Rotmiller made contact with the Regional Manager, there’s a high chance that an unsettling conversation took place.
The Regional Manager and I have a bad history.
Although I’m not sure why he’s trying something now, after several months…
‘Anyway, I can’t show any signs of suspicion.’
In Rotmiller’s case, unlike Dwarkey, I approached the matter cautiously, taking my time.
This man is scary.
I haven’t seen him angry yet…
…but that’s why he’s even scarier.
These types of people tend to go all the way once they snap.
[Then let’s decide on the nearest destination based on our starting point on the 1st floor.]
[Haha, marriage? You ask strange questions. I have no intention of starting a family until I can truly take responsibility for someone.]
[You sit on the inside. You’re too big, and you’ll keep bumping into people if you sit near the aisle.]
I continued to observe Rotmiller during regular meetings and even casual gatherings.
There was nothing particularly different from before.
He was quiet, serious, and considerate of others in most situations.
‘Ha, this is a real headache.’
Even after hearing Julian’s warning, I can’t imagine Rotmiller betraying me.
No, I even feel guilty for suspecting him.
After all, we’ve shared joys and sorrows for months.
But to not trust him just because of a single word from an outsider?
‘It’s the epitome of contradiction.’
The more I think about it, the more ironic the situation becomes.
But the more that’s the case, the more I feel like I need to confirm it for sure.
What exactly did Rotmiller talk about with the Regional Manager at the Explorer’s Guild that day?
‘If he had told me first, I would have dismissed my suspicions without hesitation.’
Rotmiller didn’t mention anything about it.
So I called him out separately today to create an opportunity for conversation.
We’re really running out of time.
The labyrinth opens tomorrow.
Therefore, I finish my drink in one gulp and get straight to the point.
“Rotmiller. Why did you go to the Explorer’s Guild the other day?”
Rotmiller looks slightly surprised at my direct question.
But did he also have a hunch?
So something really did happen.
“I know someone at the guild.”
I answer briefly and then demand an answer to my first question.
Rotmiller sighs and replies,
“…I was called there, and the 7th Regional Manager was in the room. He offered me a reward if I betrayed you.”
“So?”
“I told him I’d pretend I didn’t hear it and left. Is that a satisfactory answer?”
Although he tries to hide it, Rotmiller seems quite annoyed by my questions.
But I take it all and ask again,
“Then why didn’t you tell me until now?”
“I told you, I said I’d pretend I didn’t hear it. And besides, I thought it would just make things awkward if I told you.”
“I see. Thanks for answering.”
The conversation ends there.
If I push him any further, it would just sound like I don’t trust him. I judged that it wouldn’t be a wise move, no matter what Rotmiller’s true intentions are.
‘It wouldn’t change anything anyway.’
I can’t enter the labyrinth without a scout.
The option of finding a new one?
That also has its risks.
It’s difficult to find a skilled scout if you don’t go through the guild.
In short, it’s the perfect environment for the Regional Manager to slip in someone strange into the team.
And I doubt the dwarf or Dwarkey would agree in the first place.
‘And most importantly, it doesn’t seem like Rotmiller is lying about refusing the offer.’
I finally make my judgment.
“Sorry for bothering you at night. Get some rest today, and I’ll see you at the meeting place tomorrow.”
Nothing changes.
Rotmiller will also be joining this expedition.
__________________________
The next day, afternoon.
In other words, about 7 hours left until the labyrinth opens.
“Mister, then I’ll come see you when you get back! Please come back safely!”
“Yeah, you work hard too.”
Erwen, who had been chatting at my accommodation since receiving the Bonding spell with her sister in the morning, leaves.
And Misha arrives just in time.
“What the, why is she coming out of here?”
“She said she came to say hello. Since she has nothing to do after receiving the Bonding spell.”
“Hmm…”
“Anyway, you came at the right time. Let’s go in and get some sleep.”
We set the alarm on the alarm clock I bought recently and sleep to adjust our condition.
And after some time…
“Bjorn, wake up.”
We have a simple meal and then pack our pre-organized luggage and leave. Since we came a bit early, there’s no one at the meeting place yet.
“Hmm, those two aren’t here yet?”
As always, Rotmiller arrives on time.
“Yeah, it seems like Dwarkey and Hikurod are running late.”
“…It’s not even surprising anymore.”
Since those two are either early or late, we continue to wait.
That’s when…
“Uh, Bjorn! Look over there!”
I look in the direction Misha pointed and see a group of young warriors who just finished their coming-of-age ceremony.
Therefore, I quickly approach them.
It would be rude not to greet them now.
“Are you guys lost? If you are, just follow those people who look like explorers.”
“Who are you to say something so obvious?”
“…Bjorn, son of Yandel.”
“What! Little Balkan! It’s an honor to meet you!”
After revealing my name, I ask,
“But what do you mean obvious? Are you saying you’re not lost?”
“Of course not! We just have to follow the explorers like we learned in the sanctuary. Why would we be lost?”
“The sanctuary taught you that? Not by showing you that strange map and telling you to memorize it?”
“Map? We’ve never seen a map!”
I’m stunned at the young warrior’s answer.
What is this?
Did the training method change or something?
Well, it’s not bad for me.
It’s a much more rational method than telling them to memorize a map.
However…
“We still have some time, so listen to my story.”
“Story?”
“Yes, stories that will help you.”
I tell them the same stories I told the previous group of newbies.
But what is this again?
“Be wary of humans? That’s only natural. We have to protect our own hearts, don’t we?”
This group of baby barbarians is clearly different from before.
Every time I say something, they react as if it’s obvious.
“Wow… barbarians have evolved.”
Misha seems to feel the same way, so it’s not just me.
So why this change?
“Who taught you that in the sanctuary?”
I ask out of curiosity and freeze.
“Karon, son of Tarson!”
Without me knowing…
…a change is brewing from the bottom.
“Then we’ll be on our way! Bjorn, son of Yandel, it was an honor to meet you!”
I wanted to ask more, but the baby barbarians leave, eager to enter the labyrinth.
And as soon as they disappear, the two we were waiting for arrive at the meeting place.
“Ah, sorry for being late! Did you wait long?”
“Hahaha! Forgive us, Dwarkey here had an upset stomach!”
“Wh, wh, what are you talking about?!”
“Geez, you too. What’s there to be embarrassed about? It’s just us.”
“Enough, let’s get going.”
Since the two of them were 20 minutes late, we hurriedly head towards the Dimensional Plaza.
The portal is already open.
“Alright, then let’s go!”
After Dwarkey casts the Bonding spell, we enter the labyrinth.
______________________
「Entered 1st Floor Crystal Cave.
______________________
The Crystal Cave, filled with brilliant light.
It’s been a while since I’ve seen this sight, as I skipped it last month using a bug, but there’s no time to leisurely admire the view.
It’s because we decided to speedrun this time.
At Rotmiller’s request.
[If you guys allow it, I want to try it properly. Although it’s unlikely we’ll get any achievement points, I’m curious how well I can do.]
Since he doesn’t usually assert himself strongly when planning expeditions, everyone unanimously agreed.
“Then let’s depart right away.”
He immediately starts navigating after checking our current location by touching the walls and the ground as soon as he opens his eyes.
And he starts running as if jogging.
‘It’s actually quite fun.’
Rotmiller is at the forefront, finding the path…
…and Misha takes care of the trash mobs right behind him.
The formation that’s solely for movement is novel, and since we started running as soon as we entered, I see things I couldn’t see before.
“Wow, they’re running too!”
Explorers are dashing through the cave to find portals, just like us. It’s a sight that’s hard to even see when you’re moving leisurely.
‘Now I understand why it’s difficult to shorten the time on the 1st floor.’
I also realize something new.
The 1st-floor cave has many sharp turns.
So it’s difficult to run at full speed.
In other words, if you exceed a certain level, the movement speed of all explorers is similar.
This makes the scout’s ability even more important.
Hmm, or the stamina of the team members.
“Phew, phew…”
Although we have stamina that far surpasses ordinary people, sweat is pouring down as we jog for hours.
Is that why?
Conversation naturally disappears among the party members.
“Hikurod, are you okay?”
“I’m fine.”
Although the dwarf, who lacks agility and endurance, looks like he’s almost at his limit, he doesn’t complain.
Well, how could he say that in front of Rotmiller, who’s like this?
“This way.”
As if his words about wanting to test his limits were true, Rotmiller doesn’t lose his focus and continues to find the path for hours.
It’s passion, in a good way.
It could be seen as madness, in a bad way.
‘Is this man this passionate?’
I’m impressed by his unexpected side, but I keep moving my feet.
And after some time…
[06:12]
…we reach the portal in a whopping 6 hours.
However, unfortunately, the portal has already been opened by someone else.
“Wow, I didn’t know we could get here this fast.”
Misha exclaims, but the dwarf and I first check Rotmiller’s expression.
“Damn it! Why am I…!!”
It’s the first time I’ve seen him make such an expression.
---------------------------------
Chapter 132: Team Play (2)
The portal shimmers like the aurora borealis in the northern sea.
A heavy silence falls before it.
Misha and the dwarf can't say anything and just look around cautiously.
It's that unfamiliar.
The expression Rotmiller is making right now.
Crack.
Rotmiller's tightly closed lips tremble, as if they're chattering.
It's the first time I've seen his true colors.
Something he must have hidden deep inside with his self-control and unwavering ambition.
Inferiority.
"...It's not too late."
Rotmiller breaks the silence and speaks.
"Three teams have already passed through. Even the team at the very front is only about 30 minutes ahead of us. If we hurry, we might be able to overtake them on the 2nd floor."
It sounds logical at first glance.
But when you examine it closely, it's full of contradictions.
And the problem is that everyone nods awkwardly, even though they know this.
"Ah, ah! That would be good. I, I was a bit disappointed to just give up after coming this far."
"Ha, haha! So, so I wasn't the only one who felt that way?"
"...I, I agree."
Nice guys.
I know what they're really thinking.
It's better to just go along with the nonsense and suffer than to say something they don't want to.
"Bjorn... what about you?"
All eyes turn to me, the only one who hasn't given an opinion yet.
Ha, this is so annoying.
Why do I always have to play this role?
I sigh inwardly and say bluntly,
"Do you guys all have a problem with your heads?"
We're already 30 minutes behind on the 1st floor.
That means the gap will widen even further on the 2nd floor.
And we're practically exhausted just from getting here.
"Overtaking those who passed by in this state? Do you really think that's possible?"
The three avoid my gaze and keep their mouths shut.
So I ignore them and look at Rotmiller.
"Braun Rotmiller, enough with the nonsense."
"......"
"If it were the 1st floor, I would play along. But the 2nd floor is impossible for us. Don't put your teammates in danger because of your stubbornness."
Rotmiller clenches his teeth in frustration, and I just stare at him without saying anything.
The answer comes after a while.
"I'm sorry. I must have lost my mind for a moment. Forget what I just said."
"I already forgot."
As soon as Rotmiller apologizes and I brush it off coolly, the three of them let out a sigh of relief.
It seems like they think the situation has been resolved without any conflict, but...
'This is troublesome.'
The problem is that nothing has ended yet.
______________________
Scout.
It's a position that exists to reduce travel time in the labyrinth, where time is of the essence.
Although their combat power is lacking compared to other classes...
...their betrayal is always fatal.
Because they're the only ones who can cooperate with outside forces.
'The Regional Manager must have tried to win over Rotmiller first because he knows that.'
Scouts are in charge of the journey within the labyrinth.
In other words, they could lead us to a place with traps set up by the Regional Manager while pretending to guide us.
'...Should I have just rested this time?'
Braun Rotmiller.
I decided to trust him because I know how he usually is.
A stubborn personality.
Diligent, avoiding shortcuts and valuing effort.
I thought he wouldn't fall for whatever tricks the Regional Manager pulled.
But what about Rotmiller today?
He was different, to the point where he seemed like a different person.
'It must be because of that Regional Manager bastard.'
Of course, I still think the possibility of betrayal is low.
This man isn't stupid, and if he had really intended to betray us, he would have acted like he usually does.
However, it was necessary to assume the worst and be careful.
'...Let's just observe for now.'
The expedition resumed with that anxiety.
But contrary to my worries, Rotmiller led the party rationally, as he usually does.
「Entered 2nd Floor Rock Desert.」
He accurately found the way in the desert where the compass was useless, and on the morning of Day 2, he found the portal to the 3rd floor.
「Entered 3rd Floor Pilgrim's Path.」
Even on the 3rd floor, where we arrived earlier than ever, it wasn't much different.
We headed straight for the Witch's Forest, engaging in minimal combat, and rested when it was 10:00 PM to maintain our biological rhythm.
It was the same at midnight when Day 3 began.
“Hahaha! I don’t know why we didn’t watch this before and just slept!”
“It’s because we didn’t have anyone to share it with.”
“Dwarkey, you were so cheesy just now.”
We woke up for a moment and watched the 3rd floor bathed in silver light together.
Is this a tradition unique to Team Misfits?
No one suggested it, but it’s something we’ve been doing since our first expedition, like an unspoken promise.
「Entered 4th Floor Tower of Heaven.」
Anyway, the expedition continued without any major incidents, and we reached the 4th floor on the evening of Day 7.
So I also relaxed.
It means I no longer have to suspect and be wary of Rotmiller.
‘It really was just my imagination.’
The 4th floor is an independent floor.
Once you enter, after about 5 minutes, no other explorer can enter.
Although I was cautious throughout the battle, worried that someone might enter, no one else entered until we cleared the first stage.
“Bjorn! What are you thinking about so hard?”
“Let’s go up.”
Therefore, I completely dismissed my worries and focused on the expedition.
Hmm, not completely, I guess?
It’s just my personality.
I believe that there’s no such thing as 100% in this world. Especially if it’s during an expedition where anything can happen.
「Chose the Stairs of Wisdom.」
「Chose the Stairs of Courage.」
「Chose the Stairs of Wisdom.」
Anyway, after entering the 4th floor, we focused on climbing the floors, choosing between the Stairs of Wisdom and Courage.
Well, there was also that ridiculous situation where all three doors were Patience…
「Chose the Stairs of Patience.」
…but we managed to get through it without much trouble.
It was an illusion-type trial, and it was bearable.
I could just ignore whatever appeared and said anything.
Honestly, what came after the trial was more annoying.
“Uwaaaaaang, Bjorn…!!”
“Stop crying, it’s over.”
“If you abandon me too, I’ll really be alone!!”
Misha starts bawling as soon as we clear the floor.
The dwarf is kneeling on the ground, frustrated.
“The sword I made is worse than scrap metal…”
For reference, Dwarkey was staring blankly into space as if he’s lost his mind, and Rotmiller was clenching his fists silently…
…but they both looked angry.
‘…Geez, this is unsettling.’
While they’re coming to their senses, I check the box placed in the center of the floor.
It’s a reward that you can only obtain when you choose the Trial of Patience.
If you’re lucky, a Numbered Item or a random essence below 6th grade might come out…
But there’s no way.
As expected, it only contains fifteen 7th-grade magic stones.
“If you’re done resting, let’s get moving again.”
After almost 30 minutes of regaining their composure, the expedition resumes.
And there are no other incidents after that.
We continue to climb the floors, defeating monsters, and finally reach the 100th floor on Day 12 of the expedition.
“I think this is my first time reaching this far.”
From the 100th floor onwards, the trial difficulty is fixed at the highest level, and 6th-grade monsters appear more frequently.
However, there’s no real danger even here.
It’s thanks to our two main damage dealers who have grown significantly.
「Liol Wobu Dwarkey has cast the 7th-grade attack spell [Blizzard].」
「Misha Kaltstein has cast [Ice Crush].」
Dwarkey, who used the money he diligently saved to learn not only support magic, but also a 7th-grade AoE ice spell.
With Misha added to that, there were no problems against most 6th-grade monsters.
With two tanks and sufficient damage, our stability has increased significantly.
Hmm… it would be a different story if a 5th-grade monster like the troll appeared again, though.
‘Still, we’re much better off than before since we prepared various things with the team funds.’
Actually, it’s ridiculous to even worry about 5th-grade monsters on the 4th floor.
We didn’t even encounter Hans on the way here.
‘And it seems like Rotmiller has completely come to his senses.’
Unlike the beginning, when I was uneasy, this expedition has been going smoothly.
And Day 19 begins.
________________________
[06:32]
I check the time and then look around.
All four of them are sleeping soundly in their respective spots.
‘It feels like I’m keeping watch alone for the first time in a while.’
I get back into my sleeping bag and close my eyes, but perhaps because of my increased Stamina, I can’t fall asleep easily.
Or is it just because there are only 4 days left until the labyrinth closes?
‘I feel strangely uneasy.’
I’ve noticed it in the past few days, but our teamwork has improved significantly.
It feels like we’re finally starting to click.
They each take the best course of action without me having to give orders, and we’re even starting to communicate through eye contact and gestures.
One way or another, we’re growing into a proper team.
‘It’s an unbelievable change compared to the beginning.’
Just look at Dwarkey.
He barely shows any signs of being a newbie anymore, and his combat sense is improving day by day.
However…
…although I feel a strange sense of accomplishment at this fact, I also feel a bit disappointed. It’s because I know that the days I’ll be spending with them are numbered.
‘Let’s not get swept up in emotions and think rationally.’
The first regular team I formed after being dropped into this strange world.
Although I decided not to get attached to these people…
…how could I possibly control my emotions when I’m human?
I’m sure I’ll miss this team later—
Thud.
Just as that thought crosses my mind, I sense a presence.
I subtly raise my head and see that it’s Rotmiller.
“Did I wake you up?”
“No, I just woke up a while ago.”
“That’s a relief. I thought I woke you up again.”
‘Again’…
Is it just my imagination that his words seem to have a hidden meaning?
Hmm, it’s probably not.
This man, Rotmiller, is quite perceptive.
He must have noticed that I’ve been keeping an eye on him, even though I pretended not to.
“How about we talk for a bit since you’re awake?”
“…Alright.”
I get out of my sleeping bag, and we sit down, leaning against the wall.
And an awkward silence follows.
Ah, this is our first time talking alone since that day, right?
I feel suffocated, so I take out some jerky from my pocket and chew on it.
Chomp, chomp, chomp.
Yeah, it’s a bit better with at least this sound.
Rotmiller, who initiated the conversation, only speaks after I finish eating one piece of jerky.
“…I’m planning to leave the team after this expedition.”
“Leave the team?”
Although it’s sudden, it’s not something I didn’t expect at all.
I had considered this possibility.
“It’s because of me.”
Huh?
“What do you mean?”
“…Give me one of those too.”
I hand him a piece of jerky, and Rotmiller chews on it while speaking.
It’s a rather long story.
“The Regional Manager’s offer played a part in my decision. Even I would be tempted, wouldn’t I? He said he would create a scout position for me in a large clan.”
“My heart kept pounding even though I knew it was a lie. That’s when I first realized that it was time for me to leave this team.”
“Ah, but don’t feel too burdened. It’s something I’m used to. Other races… no, those with talent, they easily climb the ranks, don’t they?”
“I’ve been on many teams in the past 8 years, and there were many times when I was left behind because I couldn’t keep up. Sometimes I was kicked out, and sometimes I left on my own before things got worse.”
“That’s how I, as an explorer, survived.”
“But this time, it’s not easy.”
“Why?”
I ask a question for the first time, and Rotmiller chuckles and answers,
“Because I care about you guys.”
“……?”
“I didn’t want to admit it even though I knew it was time to leave. So I hid what happened with the Regional Manager and tried to follow you on this expedition. I wanted this journey to continue, even for a little longer. But…”
Rotmiller swallows the jerky he was chewing.
“Everything has to end someday.”
I’m speechless at his words.
Rotmiller doesn’t say anything, just looks straight ahead as if waiting for my response.
That’s when…
The alarm rings, and my companions start stirring one by one.
“It’s time for everyone to wake up. I’ll be going, so get ready to leave too.”
Rotmiller leaves to pack up his sleeping bag.
I take out my watch from my pocket.
[08:00]
It’s time for Day 19 of the expedition to begin.
_______________________
Rotmiller is similar to me in many ways.
He tried not to get attached to others, but he did, and even so, he made a rational decision without being swayed by his emotions.
But the difference is…
‘I was just looking out for myself, and this man was looking out for us.’
It’s not like I haven’t made altruistic calculations before.
I thought that if we went to the upper floors with them, someone would die, and our exploration game would be over.
So I wanted to end it myself before that happened.
“Bjorn!”
Honestly, the back of my head is tingling.
I didn’t expect Rotmiller to be thinking this way.
How did I appear in his eyes?
What was he thinking as he felt my wary gaze?
Countless questions swirl in my head…
…and then…
“Bjorn! What the hell are you spacing out for?”
I’m brought back to reality as Misha shakes my shoulder.
“Stop dawdling and get ready.”
“…Alright.”
I come to my senses and help pack up the campsite.
And we all gather and have a simple meal before climbing the stairs.
‘Let’s tell them when we get back to the city. That there’s no need for him to leave since we’re going to leave anyway…’
Although my mind is complicated, I decide to focus on the expedition for now.
We still have four days left.
Although we’ve become strong enough to easily defeat even 6th-grade monsters, the Tower of Heaven is a place where the difficulty can increase ridiculously depending on the combination of monsters.
We can’t let our guard down until we return to the city—
「Trial completed.」
…but it’s not just me.
“…All three doors are the Stairs of Fate?”
“Didn’t I say it could be dangerous?”
Wow, this actually happens.