C190, 191, 192
Chapter 190: Item Power (5)
No. 8667 Outlaw of the Wasteland.
It's a Numbered Item that the beastman swordsman from the dwarf's team was wearing. As expected of a low number, it doesn't have any stat boosts, and it's relatively cheap.
It's because its usage effect is a bit ambiguous.
Increased melee physical damage against humanoid 'monsters', and the increase rate grows with the number of enemies?
There's no way it would be in high demand among explorers.
There aren't that many humanoid monsters in the labyrinth, and even those rarely travel in groups.
'And it even has a one-day cooldown.'
It's an item that's difficult to utilize properly unless you're specifically targeting Doppelgangers or that bastard on the 5th floor.
Thanks to obtaining this item, our chances of winning increased significantly.
Would it have been about 50/50 without it?
「Unsealing rate 70%」
The magic circle on the ground glows again, indicating that we're running out of time.
Since it increases by 5% for every 10 monsters, it means that over 60 clones have already been summoned.
「Current increase rate 401%.」
But it's not enough yet.
Therefore, we get into a tight formation against the wall, as planned.
And...
"Barhatun Wiar."
...Raven summons a stone wall with her magic.
It's a judgment to endure until that moment arrives.
However, she didn't completely seal off the wall. She left a gap big enough for two or three people to pass through on one side.
It was Raven's idea.
She said they would try to break through if it were completely blocked, but if there's a path, they'll try to go that way.
'It actually works.'
I block the only passage.
If I swing my mace in this state, the clones, including the one mimicking me, will all die in one or two hits...
...but I suppress the urge.
Our goal isn't to hunt clones.
Kwaaang!
The clones charge towards me, pushing and shoving each other as if protesting.
Of course, not all of them are like that.
"There's a hole over there!!"
A clone is breaking through the stone wall and creating a path.
I glance over, and it's the one mimicking me.
"Mr. Yandel, focus on that side! We'll handle this!"
The melee damage dealers and Woongie, summoned by the bear-like man, quickly form a human wall and block the clones, but it's not an easy task.
Because we have a huge penalty.
"Ack! Don't kill them!"
To block without attacking.
It's a condition that's difficult to fulfill unless you're a professional tank. I keep hearing the sounds of a difficult battle from behind.
But there's nothing I can do.
Things will just get worse if I try to help.
Rumble!
After about 2 minutes...
...the cave trembles again.
「Unsealing rate 90%」
It means it's finally time for the showdown.
"Mr. Yandel!"
I lightly jump in place since the ceiling isn't high.
It's a 'short jump' in technical terms.
「Character's total weight is over 500 kg.」
「The special terrain effect [Recoil] is additionally applied to the damage radius.」
The clones, including my companions, are all thrown into the air simultaneously. Therefore, I charge forward as soon as I land, stepping on the clones.
「Threat level is temporarily greatly increased.」
Thanks to the increased threat level, the clones hurriedly get up and charge towards me like zombies, and I soon feel a tremendous resistance from beyond the shield.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
After about 10 seconds...
...I finally reach my destination, pushing everything aside like a bulldozer.
Boom! Boom!
The main body, mimicking me, is continuously exploding and using [Self-Replication].
I swing my mace without hesitation.
Thwack!
It feels like hitting tofu.
But it's enough to deal damage.
"Kyaaaaaaaaak!!"
The main body, which finished its infinite [Self-Replication] and transformed into me.
It's a bit different from before since it's in berserk mode.
There are two heads on its neck.
'Me, Ainar...'
Damn it, why her of all people?
The Doppelganger is using the essences Ainar possesses, on top of my skills.
「The nameless marauder has cast [Swing].」
「The nameless marauder has cast [Double Slash].」
The impact itself is different.
I would have definitely been blown back if it weren't for the Guardian Corps Insignia.
And the summoned clones are surrounding and attacking me from all sides.
But...
Whoosh!
...I ignore them all and swing my mace.
The two barbarian heads on the main body's neck smirk.
It's a mocking smile as if saying, 'You think that will work?'
I just smile back.
「Current increase rate 771%.」
Because you're not the only one who received a buff.
It's Extreme Damage Barbarian Mode.
Kwaaang!!
I use [Swing] with all my might, and the Doppelganger, who blocked it with his shield, staggers.
And a gap appears.
I swing my mace again without giving him time to recover.
Kwagic!
Ainar's head is crushed with a single blow.
But he doesn't collapse, since he has two heads.
It's not a problem.
I can just hit him again.
Kwagic!
The Doppelganger, having lost both of its heads, immediately turns back into a slime.
And then it hardens.
「Doppelganger has cast [Crystallization].」
It's his last resort.
Well, it's a very troublesome pattern, even if you call it a last resort.
「Magic damage reduced by 99%.」
「Physical damage reduced by 90%.」
It's practically immune to magic damage.
And it reduces physical damage by 90%. It's an OP skill.
And if you don't break it within the time limit, you have to repeat this whole process again.
It's ridiculous, but that's the original strategy.
Mass summon, transformation, crystallization.
You have to repeat this sequence and accumulate damage on the 'crystal' to shatter it.
Kwaaang!
But we have to bet everything on this one attempt.
That's why we didn't even bother killing the clones.
"Raven!!"
Raven and Parteian immediately cast their magic as soon as I shout.
It's not attack magic.
It's 'Mana Shield', which we also used when we were fighting the dwarf's team.
Raven shouts urgently,
"We can't hold out for long!"
I know without her telling me.
Just look at how many clones are around me.
It's a magic spell with a high consumption cost, so the two mages' mana will be depleted in less than a minute.
Therefore...
Kwaaang!
...I focus solely on smashing the crystallized Doppelganger, trusting in the thick mana barrier that's protecting me.
Kwaaang!
It's a tactic I wouldn't have even considered if it weren't for 'Outlaw of the Wasteland'.
I would have probably cleared the clones first and then focused on dealing damage together.
While worrying that we might not have enough damage.
Crack!
A crack appears on the crystal on the fourth [Swing].
It's strange.
I've experienced the [Crystallization] pattern several times, but it's already at this point?
Just how much damage are we dealing right now?
I can't tell the exact number, but it's truly astonishing.
Because we still have something we haven't used yet.
「Character has cast [Leap].」
Another 'short jump'.
「Threat level is temporarily greatly increased.」
And...
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
...immediately [Wild Release].
「Character's threat level is temporarily tripled, and physical stats increase proportionally.」
A powerful force erupts from my entire body.
Of course, this feeling of exhilaration only lasts for a short time.
But I judged...
...that it's enough.
「The destructive power of blunt weapons is greatly increased in proportion to Strength.」
The miraculous law of exchange where threat level is converted to Strength, and Strength is converted to the destructive power of blunt weapons.
「Current increase rate 771%.」
And on top of that, we add 'Outlaw of the Wasteland'?
I don't even have to worry about the 90% physical immunity.
Kwaaang!!!
Because my damage is being duplicated right now.
_____________________
「Killed Doppelganger. EXP +6」
「Guardian Kill Bonus. EXP +3」
_____________________
How long have I been smashing the crystal with my mace like a madman?
I don't know, but around the time my body starts to accumulate injuries rapidly because the 'Mana Shield' has ended...
Crackle!
...the crystal, cracked like a broken mirror, finally shatters like an exploding grenade.
It's not even a close call.
'About a minute...'
It broke much faster than I expected.
I was even considering gathering everyone and pouring all our damage into it...
But there was no need to use Plan B because of the variable that appeared at the end.
'Right, there should be days like this too.'
Although I'm happy, I also feel a strange sense of emptiness.
No one would call it lucky if no unexpected incidents happened.
'No, it's too early to relax.'
I clear my thoughts and come to my senses.
Four Hans Gs appeared in the boss room at the beginning, defying all odds.
'Could it be a variant rift like the 'Crimson Fortress'—'
Swaaaaaaaaa!
That's when the shattered fragments of the main body turn into particles of light and scatter in the air. And it's the same for the clones that were filling the cave.
Whoosh!
And a portal connected to the 4th floor opens in the center.
It really means the rift has been cleared.
"Huh! What! Did we defeat it?!"
"Ugh, I thought I was going to die. Aruru, can you give me a potion?"
"Later. You're not even seriously injured. We have to check that first! Essence? Numbered Item? Rift Stone? What dropped—"
Ah, right, we have to check that too.
I didn't even look properly because I was wary of something else happening.
Now it's time to collect the guardian's reward, the flower of a rift.
I gulp and look at the spot where the Doppelganger was.
"......"
"......"
There's nothing there.
'Don't tell me, this is the Hans effect?'
That thought briefly crosses my mind, but it's not good to blame everything on Hans. The drop rate for essences or Numbered Items is only 33%.
Well, it's a bit disappointing that even the Rift Stone, which has a 66% drop rate, didn't appear...
'...It's common.'
This happened often in the game too.
You struggle to clear a rift, but get no rewards.
"...Mr. Yandel, get a grip. These things happen."
"Th, that's right! We already got a lot, didn't we?"
My companions offer words of comfort as I stand there, frozen.
Tsk, it's not like I'm angry.
'...So the only reward is from the PK?'
Although it's a bit empty, it's ridiculous to even feel disappointed when I think about it.
I can't even imagine how much all this equipment would sell for.
We've already broken our previous income record, and I even absorbed the Manticore essence.
'...Right, this alone is practically like getting a Doppelganger essence.'
Hmm, is this the effect of positive thinking?
I suddenly feel energized.
"Misha, are you okay?"
"Huh? Yeah. I just got grazed. Grazed!"
"Drink a potion first."
I dismiss my disappointment and start cleaning up after the battle, checking on my companions.
Raven chuckles, looking at me.
"Indeed, you seem like a leader when I see things like this."
"Are you making fun of me?"
"No, I was being serious this time."
"......"
"Aruru, don't do that. You're making Bjorn embarrassed."
What is she talking about?
"Then let's go back up."
We return to the forest after cleaning up. The Doppelgangers on the upper level have already disappeared.
"You're safe! I'm so relieved!!"
"Sorry for making you wait, Miss Sarman."
I hand Guide Girl, whom we left behind, to the mace warrior.
For reference, the archer from the dwarf's team, whom we offered to the altar, is already dead.
"But how did this man...?"
"Uh, that's... I was worried he might wake up..."
It seems like they killed him before he regained consciousness.
It's a bit impressive.
This guy is also an explorer, after all.
I check the archer's equipment and backpack just in case, but it doesn't seem like Guide Girl took anything.
Then our business is concluded.
"Ah, here, you should take this. I used it well."
"You keep it."
"Really?"
Parteian gives Raven the 'Misplaced Trust' he lent her as a gift. Although it's out of uses, it's not a worthless gift.
There's a way to recharge it.
It would sell for hundreds of thousands of stones even if we just sold it.
"Thank you for saving us. If you need my help, come find me anytime."
I was thinking it was just empty words...
...but Parteian gives me a business card with the Narman school emblem on it.
Hmm, so he really meant it.
I should keep this and visit him when I need something.
'This feels like completing a side quest.'
After a brief farewell with the mace warrior and Guide Girl, I escort them to the portal.
"But you guys aren't leaving?"
"It's a rift we finally entered, right? We're going to look around a bit more and do some research."
"Hmm, I see?"
Parteian nods meaningfully as if he understands, and Raven smiles awkwardly.
"Then we'll be going."
They then enter the portal and return to where they were before.
"Will they... be okay?"
"What are you worried about?"
"Mages usually look after each other."
"That's not what I meant. I meant it was an unnecessary worry. It's the 4th floor, after all."
Although Hans G and the fairy archer died, the Tower of Heaven is a floor where you can wait if you want to.
They'll probably kill time like we used to and then return to the city.
"Well... that's true."
We turn away from the portal and climb back up to the forest.
Because there's still something left to collect.
-------------------------------------
Chapter 191: Bifron (1)
7:00 AM on Day 11 of the labyrinth expedition.
We returned to the forest after sending the three of them out of the rift.
And...
"Um, how about we eat something?"
"That would be good."
We finally felt hungry and gathered to cook. But as is human nature, drowsiness follows a full stomach.
"...Let's sleep today and do it tomorrow."
We set up camp and fell asleep without even deciding who would sleep first, feeling exhausted.
After all, it wasn't just one night we stayed up.
We wasted our mental energy playing the mafia game in the third chapter and had a massive PvP battle.
And then the Doppelganger boss battle.
Snore!
Sleepiness washes over me as soon as I close my eyes.
When I open my eyes again, a whole day has passed.
[07:12]
We went to sleep past 8:00 AM, but the hour hand on the clock has moved back an hour.
It means we slept for almost 24 hours.
"Oh, you're awake?"
"...Why didn't you wake me up?"
"We just woke up too."
So it wasn't out of consideration for me.
I wash my face with water from my canteen, and I smell something delicious nearby.
"Come over and get a bowl when you're awake. Ah, and wake Ainar up and bring her too. She wakes up easily when you wake her up, right?"
We then wake Ainar up and eat together, and then we wander through the forest, collecting what needs to be collected.
"Don't just follow me, check the ground carefully. One of these roots is worth 10,000 stones."
Herbs that grow naturally in the Doppelganger Forest.
"Mr. Yandel."
Kwaaang!
'Sealed Shard of Evil', which drops from the Sealing Stone with a certain probability when you destroy it, now that it's useless.
"How much is this worth?"
"About 1 million stones each."
"I see. I'll buy up to five."
I take five out of the seven shards we obtained.
Because there's no effect after that.
「Character has consumed 'Sealed Shard of Evil'.」
「Magic Resistance permanently increased by +1.」
For reference, I have Misha buy and consume the remaining two shards.
"Huh? Me?"
"You earned a lot of money, didn't you? Don't be stingy."
"No, it's not that I'm being stingy..."
Misha looks at Ainar with an apologetic expression.
Geez, she should be more selfish as an explorer.
Ainar's future essences will have a lot of Magic Resistance, so it's more rational for Misha to absorb them.
And she's not even getting them for free.
"Phew, but I can't find it, no matter how much I search."
"It's fine if it takes a day, let's keep looking."
Although there are no monsters, it takes a whole day to find it since the forest is so vast.
But we invest another day and search the entire forest once more, and finally find what we were looking for.
"Everyone, cover your ears... no, just stay far away. I'll pull this out."
It's a Mandrake, one of the ingredients for an elixir.
Raven uses magic to protect herself and pulls it out of the ground, and with that, everything we can do in the 'Doppelganger Forest' is complete.
However...
"I'm really sorry, but could you give me a little more time? I want to look around this place a bit more."
"Why?"
"It's purely personal curiosity."
We decide to stay a bit longer at Raven's request.
Unexpectedly, no one objects.
"Well, even the person who wrote the Compendium of Rifts wouldn't know everything, right?!"
"Maybe we'll find something else."
I see a glimmer of hope in my companions' eyes.
Well, I know that there's practically no chance of finding a hidden piece that I don't know about...
'But it's better than nothing.'
When we first met in the 'Crimson Fortress', she didn't even apologize. She just made the dwarf and me help her with her research.
"So where do you want to start looking?"
"First, that cave from the beginning."
We meticulously search everything, starting from the Shadow Cave, the first chapter, to the Marauder's Hideout, the boss room...
In other words, we smash anything that looks suspicious.
As expected, there are no hidden rooms or items.
However, we encounter countless questions in the process.
"Why a cage?"
"Because we had to wait until all the other teams entered?"
"Then it would be more rational to just synchronize the time. Like when we enter and leave the labyrinth."
Why does the 'Doppelganger Forest' start with us trapped in a cage?
What is the [Record of Offerings] we obtained from the altar, and why is it called 'offerings'?
Why did the clones transform into imperial soldiers after the third chapter?
No, in the first place, what is the 'Empire'?
"Now that I think about it, that's also a shame. He could talk, even if it was broken. We might have been able to get some information from him..."
Although we discuss Raven's question, we can't come up with a proper answer to any of them.
Therefore, the rift exploration ends here.
"I'm sorry, everyone. We wasted two days because of me."
"Don't apologize. You're our mage. It was a legitimate request. And we agreed to the search."
"That's right. And I actually enjoyed it, it felt like a real exploration. Right, Ainar?"
"Huh? I was bored."
"Please, read the room. Okay?"
Ainar looks dejected as Misha, who's been acting like her older sister lately, scolds her.
Raven chuckles, watching them.
"Thank you, everyone. But come to think of it, I don't think I need to apologize. Just selling one Mandrake root is enough to cover several days of hunting, right?"
"Our mage is finally back to normal."
"Back to normal? Mr. Urikfrit, what does that mean?"
The bear-like man shrugs and avoids answering, and Raven just looks at him suspiciously without prying further.
「Entered 4th Floor Tower of Heaven.」
We return to the labyrinth through the portal in the boss room on the afternoon of Day 14 and continue exploring. It takes about 6 days to reach the 5th floor.
Then, as originally planned, we pretend to focus on hunting while taking the 'Hellfire Canyon' route and search for 'Millarodden'.
Ah, for reference, it was a piece of cake once we found the black moss. I didn't even have to tell her to use the detection spell first.
It's because Raven, who enjoyed it last time, used detection magic every 5 minutes throughout the exploration.
"...It didn't appear again."
As a result, we were able to hunt a total of three Millarodden, but they were all duds.
Well, this is actually more common.
The success rate of the Distortion spell on Millarodden is 20%.
'I guess it's not happening this time.'
We didn't bother looking for Millarodden with only 5 days left until the labyrinth closes.
We wouldn't be able to achieve much even if we entered.
Tsk, I was planning to clear the areas we couldn't before since we have the 'Orb of Fire'.
「Killed Stoneburn. EXP +4」
「Killed Fire Wraith. EXP +2」
「Killed Red Mud. EXP +3」
「Killed Hellflame. EXP +5」
But the hunting itself isn't bad.
It's the only advantage of the Noark subjugation's failure.
The 5th floor is teeming with monsters since over 90% of the clans that were controlling the fields are gone.
Of course, this situation won't last long.
The clans that suffered losses will recover in a few months, and there are quite a few clans that didn't enter because of the unstable situation.
And so, time passes...
「Character is being transported to Lafdonia.」
...and the day of our return arrives.
__________________
Warm sunlight embraces my skin.
As always, I stand there blankly, basking in its warmth. I look around, and I see explorers doing the same thing everywhere.
'Alright, let's go.'
I head towards the checkpoint for our rank, and my companions are already there.
Well, everyone except for one.
"It seems like Avman isn't here yet."
"Ah, he's coming now. With someone else."
It's a sight that amazes me every time I see it.
How can he get lost here when the plaza is so big?
"Haha, the line is short this time."
"It's not because you came early, but because there are fewer explorers who entered the labyrinth this time."
"Ahem, who said anything?"
Anyway, the line disappears quickly as we wait.
The magic stone exchange income is much lower than before.
"It's 7,080,000 stones."
Divided by five, it's 1,416,000 stones per person.
It's almost four times less than last time.
But it can't be helped.
We didn't even enter the other world, and the Doppelganger Forest, where we invested our time, isn't a place where you can earn a lot of magic stones.
"So that's it?"
"Yes, good work this time as well."
The employee doesn't look at us suspiciously since we didn't earn an absurd amount of money.
But just as we're about to leave after the exchange...
"Ah, please wait a moment!"
Huh?
"...Is there a problem?"
The employee hurriedly stops us.
And he speaks rapidly,
"Team Apple Nark, and the leader, Bjorn Yandel. Is that correct?"
"So?"
"...Please wait here for a moment. This also applies to your team members."
Although I'm not grabbed and restrained by guards with scary faces like last time, I can feel that something is wrong.
Is it the same for our mage?
"Excuse me, shouldn't you at least explain what's going on?"
Raven speaks aggressively on my behalf, as if I'm about to have a PTSD episode.
And at that moment...
"Inspector, are these them?"
"Ah, yes! That's right!"
A knight enters the checkpoint.
Raven's face hardens.
"...Why is the Moselan here?"
Moselan.
An enforcement agency composed solely of knights of noble birth, and a group with a notorious reputation.
"Bjorn."
Even Misha, who witnessed Dwarkey being arrested before, is trembling.
But unexpectedly, the knight is kind.
At least compared to those arrogant bastards we saw before.
"Greetings. I'm Elmeras from the Moselan Enforcement Division."
Although he's speaking casually as if we're his servants, it's a characteristic of nobles, so it's only natural.
This is actually considered gentle.
And most importantly, he's even offering a handshake.
It means he's not hostile towards us.
"...Bjorn, son of Yandel."
I let out an inward sigh of relief and shake his hand.
But my anxiety hasn't completely disappeared.
Why did the inspector detain us, and what business does the Moselan have with us?
"Hello."
"Hmm, and you, miss?"
"I'm Arrua Raven from the Artemion school. I'd like to know why Sir Elmeras is looking for us."
The knight smiles and answers Raven's question,
"There's only one reason why an inspector would detain explorers. You guys have a warrant out for your arrest."
It's news that's like a bolt from the blue.
"Yes? What do you mean..."
"Don't be too surprised. Judging by the disciplinary action, it doesn't seem that serious."
"No, more importantly, what's the reason?"
The knight grins and answers,
"Using abilities within the city. And entering the labyrinth without permission, disobeying the officials' orders."
Ah, that...
Raven and the rest of us all shut our mouths. We completely forgot about it because of all the things that happened in the labyrinth.
In the first place, I thought it would just end with a fine.
"I don't understand at all. Wouldn't it normally be just a fine for something like that?"
I can't help but ask in a slightly questioning tone.
No matter how I think about it, there's no reason for a warrant to be issued, and even less so for the Moselan to be involved.
Then what's going on?
"Considering the situation, it can't be treated as a simple misdemeanor. It can also be interpreted as disobeying the royal family's orders."
Right, so that's how it is.
I roughly understand the situation.
It seems like Raven also understands.
"...They're trying to tighten the reins on explorers."
"What's there to hide in front of a mage? You're right. It's only been a day, but your story is already spreading among explorers."
"Our story?"
"They're saying they should have just ignored the orders and charged in, that it was stupid to wait. The higher-ups judged that if it just ended with a fine, similar incidents would happen again."
In short, it's to make an example out of someone.
To punish one person and instill fear in the hearts of a hundred.
"Please understand, if we don't control the explorers now, something worse might happen."
I think I understand why they chose me.
I've gained some fame, and I even became a hot topic because of the unauthorized entry, so they probably judged that the story would spread quickly.
"So, what's going to happen to us?"
The knight corrects one thing before answering my question.
"To be precise, it's not 'you guys', it's 'you'."
Only I'll be punished.
He said the rest will just get a fine.
They seemed to be caught up in the situation, and there's no need for everyone to suffer when it's just a symbolic punishment.
"Ooh, rational! Right, it's a rational decision!!"
My heart aches, seeing Ainar so happy.
Even Raven isn't objecting, and the bear-like man is relieved that he won't be beaten up by his wife.
Am I really the only one who can speak for myself?
That's when, as that thought of distrust towards humanity is lingering in my mind...
"Um, sir? Since it's just a symbolic punishment, can I take it instead?"
Misha is the only one who steps up for me.
"What are you talking about?"
I chuckle and push Misha away.
I appreciate the thought, but there's no way that would work.
In the first place, I'm the main culprit in this incident.
And besides, judging by what he's saying, the punishment doesn't seem that severe...
"It's fine, I'll take responsibility. So tell me, what's going to happen to me?"
The knight says casually,
"You'll be living in Bifron for 20 days."
It's a temporary exile.
------------------------------
Chapter 192: Bifron (2)
Lafdonia.
Once a mere territory, it transformed into humanity's last bastion after the apocalypse, a sanctuary where survivors from across the continent gathered.
This fortress city comprised 14 distinct districts.
First, the 1st District, Karnon, the Imperial City.
Home to the royal family, nobles, and the privileged elite. Its defining characteristic: commoners couldn't even set foot there without special permission.
Districts 2 through 5 formed Commelby.
Commonly known as the Free Market, this commercial zone sprawled around the outskirts of the Imperial City. Master craftsmen and thriving businesses were concentrated here.
Districts 7 through 13 constituted Ravigion.
Occupying the largest area of the city, it housed a staggering 70% of the city's population. Each district boasted a Dimensional Plaza, where portals to the labyrinth opened monthly.
Finally, the 14th District, Bifron.
Unlike the 6th District, Gnometree, which was designated a special zone during the city's initial planning, Bifron's story was different. Originally part of Ravigion, it was now a restricted area, its Dimensional Plaza long gone.
Rumble!
The gate to Bifron creaked open.
To admit another inmate.
"What are you waiting for? Get inside."
"...Is that all?"
"You already heard the explanation, didn't you? As long as you don't try to escape, you can do whatever you want."
The knight who escorted me here turned away, clearly eager to leave this place.
Thud!
The gate slammed shut, and only then did I turn to survey my surroundings.
"The Holding Pen..."
Living up to its nickname, the atmosphere here was starkly different from other ordinary districts.
Would the 7th District, my current residence, look like this after a century of neglect?
Dilapidated buildings stood in disrepair, their walls marred with grime and graffiti.
The streets were no different.
Debris was piled haphazardly.
'Tsk, I have to spend 20 days here?'
I started walking aimlessly, not wanting to just stand there in front of the gate.
Wary gazes followed me.
The residents, or rather, the inmates of this district, watched me with hungry eyes. They were gaunt figures, their bones protruding beneath ragged clothing.
Smirk.
I couldn't help but laugh.
What would the 21st-century modern man, Lee Hansu, have done?
He would have surely cowered under their scrutiny.
Their gazes were filled with greed, a stark contrast to the indifference he was accustomed to. He would have been desperate to find a place to hide, unable to utter a word.
But...
"What are you looking at?"
I was now a barbarian of this era, standing over two meters tall, my muscular body clad in heavy armor.
I could turn these weaklings into mush in minutes, even if dozens of them attacked.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
I even unleashed [Wild Release] to emphasize my confidence, and the residents who were watching me from hiding lowered their gazes and went about their business.
"It's okay! I won't eat you!"
I laughed heartily, almost theatrically, and continued walking.
"Wh, why did he suddenly shout...?"
"...He must be crazy, coming all the way here."
"He's a lunatic. It's better to stay away from him."
Those words drifted faintly from various corners.
It was the reaction I was hoping for.
I didn't want to be bothered by flies.
'Geez, this feels like I'm back in the beginner zone.'
I was quite worried about this place, which was called a lawless zone.
Well, to be precise, Misha was the one who was worried.
But now I'm certain.
A lawless zone is a place where the strong rule, and it can be more comfortable than a society with laws, depending on the situation.
'I can just think of it as a vacation.'
My barbarian body, sensitive to the natural order, had already sensed it.
That I wouldn't face many inconveniences here.
That's when, as I was walking aimlessly and observing the surroundings...
"Hey, newbie mister!"
...a child, about ten years old, boldly blocked my path.
I asked to confirm,
"Have you been following me since the gate?"
"No? I just saw you."
"But how did you know I'm a newbie?"
"Because I've never seen you before. Word spreads quickly when someone like you arrives."
It's an answer that makes sense, considering the weaklings surrounding us.
"What do you want?"
I lower my voice, mindful of my surroundings.
However, the child is bold and speaks clearly without avoiding my gaze.
"You haven't found a place to stay yet since it's your first day, right? I'll guide you. I might look like this, but I'm a local who was born and raised here."
In short, he's offering to be my guide.
Of course, it won't be free.
He wouldn't have dared to stand in front of a giant barbarian just to volunteer.
"What's your fee?"
"Just 100 stones."
It's a paltry sum, as if he missed a zero.
"Alright. Lead the way."
The child readily agrees and takes the lead, saying he'll take me to the best place in the neighborhood.
I ask him various questions as we walk.
Although I read a few books about Bifron at the library, it would be arrogant to assume that I know everything about this place just from that.
First, a personal question.
"Were you born here?"
"Yes."
"Your parents?"
"They're dead."
"No, I meant were they also born here?"
The child seems reluctant to answer, but he kneels before the power of money.
"I'll give you another 100 stones."
"...Only my mother. I heard my father came from outside."
"For what crime?"
"...Possession and distribution of subversive materials. I'm telling you now because I know you'll ask, but it was a book about whether the taxes we pay to the royal family are justified."
"He was a thinker."
It's not a surprising fact.
The nickname 'Holding Pen' that's attached to Bifron came about because they exiled those who spread negative rumors about the royal family.
You're so dissatisfied?
Then try living in a place where the law doesn't apply.
It's basically exile based on that logic, and it's a very clever move from the royal family's perspective.
They can get rid of dissidents and solidify their legitimacy.
It's much more beneficial than execution.
"How old are you?"
"Eleven."
"You can leave in three years."
"If I pass the qualification test."
I tilt my head.
"Qualification test? I heard you can leave when you turn fourteen."
"You only heard half of it. Only a select few who show talent in any field can be pardoned. Although I said any field, most people aim for the explorer path. It's easier, and they recruit more people..."
"Are you also aiming for the explorer path?"
"No. I'm a scholar."
A scholar...
No wonder he's so articulate. It seems like he hasn't given up on learning even in this environment.
"You're an explorer, right, mister? How did you end up here?"
The child then asks me a question.
It seems like he feels it's unfair that only he's answering questions.
"I'll tell you if you take 100 stones off your fee."
"It's not even that much money..."
"An explorer never loses, even a small amount of money."
"Oh, so you really are an explorer?"
It's a cute prank.
However, as if belatedly realizing that he might be harmed, the child quickly continues,
"Okay, I'll take less. So tell me why you're here."
"I made a minor mistake in the city. They told me to live here for 20 days."
"20 days..."
Could it be that it's an incredibly short time from the perspective of someone who's lived here all his life?
The child bites his lip and falls silent for a moment.
And then he asks one more thing.
"What grade were you, mister?"
It's personal information that I don't really want to share.
"That wasn't the question, was it? Forget about the 100 stones. Just answer my questions properly from now on."
I cut him off firmly, like a cowardly adult, and change the topic.
Things like the cost of living in Bifron, its social structure, and so on, things that are hard to grasp just from books.
The child, as a local, answers all my questions without much difficulty, and there's one thing that's particularly interesting.
The source of their food.
"The royal family distributes food every month?"
"Yes. But the powerful people take it all and use it like a currency."
I don't care about the thugs he's talking about.
As long as people are involved, there will always be a hierarchy, even at the bottom.
What caught my attention was something else.
"This place is so ironic."
"Yes?"
"Never mind."
I'm suddenly more interested in Bifron.
It feels like there's a more interesting story behind how one of the city districts that was fine in the game ended up like this.
"We're here."
After some more conversation, we arrive at the inn the child mentioned.
The 1st floor is a bar, and the 2nd floor is for lodging, a common type of establishment you can find anywhere in the city.
Don't these places usually get taken over by thugs?
'He said it was the best place.'
I chuckle and open the door to the inn, which looks like it's infested with bugs.
Creak.
Unexpectedly, there are quite a few people inside.
Sturdy-looking men and women in shabby clothes, drinking.
Clang.
A rusty bell rings with a dull sound, and everyone inside turns their gaze towards me.
The emotions in their eyes are diverse.
Wary, bewildered, curious, greedy.
I ignore them all and approach the counter.
"Bartender, how much for a night?"
"50 stones."
Again, it's a price that's as if he missed a zero.
"And a meal?"
"250 stones."
"250 stones..."
Although they're both pocket change to me, actually experiencing it makes me realize the difference from the outside world.
The cost of food is five times higher than the cost of housing.
It's a price you can't even imagine in Lafdonia, where the housing shortage is severe.
"I'll stay for one night."
"And food?"
"Give it to me now."
"Payment upfront."
I pay 300 stones, including the room fee, and sit down.
"Then I'll be going, mister."
"You haven't received your money yet."
"Ah, right!"
I give the child, who's making a surprised expression, 1,000 stones.
"I, I don't have any change..."
"Keep the change, come sit next to me."
"Yes?"
"Be my companion until the food arrives."
The child, who was looking at me with a strange gaze, organizes his thoughts and sits down. And he answers all my questions one by one.
Time passes, and...
"Here's your order."
...the long-awaited food arrives.
There's no meat, just bread and a bowl of white soup.
"Then I'll be..."
I grab the child's arm as he's about to get up.
"Sit down."
"Yes? But you said only until the food arrives..."
Geez, does he really think barbarians are idiots?
I repeat myself, adding a bit of killing intent,
"Sit down."
The child shuts his mouth and sits back down, sensing the heavy atmosphere.
Although he's pretending not to, I can feel him trembling from afar.
I take a big spoonful of soup.
And...
"Eat."
"Yes?"
"Eat."
"Th, thank you, but I'm not hungry..."
Right, that's how it is.
"I'll give you 10,000 stones if you eat it."
I make an offer he can't refuse.
Then what choice will he make?
The answer is simple.
"...Pl, please spare me."
As expected of a child who was born and raised in this environment, he's quick-witted.
___________________
There were two reasons why I was able to see through the child's trick.
[Have you been following me since the gate?]
[No? I just saw you.]
First, he lied nonchalantly to a question I asked to confirm.
Well, he lied well, but...
I'm a bit confident in my memory.
He was loitering around from the moment the gate first opened.
[Just 100 stones.]
Second, he asked for a ridiculously low fee.
It's strange.
Even tourist traps are full of people trying to rip you off. But this child, and even the innkeeper, didn't even try to overcharge me.
Of course, it could be just a coincidence...
"...Pl, please spare me."
...but the child kneels instead of eating.
I'm not surprised since I expected it.
The tricks these people use lack creativity.
'Geez, if you're going to backstab someone, at least do it discreetly.'
I get up, overturning the meal I wouldn't have eaten anyway.
I was originally going to ask him who his accomplices were, but...
It seems unnecessary.
"Stop right there."
I speak, looking at them sneaking towards the exit.
It's a friendly attempt at conversation, something I rarely do.
But unfortunately, the four of them, including the bartender, just run away faster.
"Damn it!"
"Run!!"
I click my tongue bitterly, looking at their retreating figures.
Come on, do they think that would work?
"Aak!"
I grab the child with one hand.
And I quickly go outside, activate [Gigantification] as usual, push off the ground, and use [Leap].
Kwaaang!
My body, crossing dozens of meters in an instant, slams into the ground. The four of them are thrown into the air by the [Recoil] effect.
"Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!"
I also use [Wild Release], and the four of them can't even think of getting up and running away.
Kwagic.
I crush one of their legs each to prevent them from escaping.
It's broad daylight.
And I did it in the middle of the street, but who cares? This is a lawless zone.
And besides, there are no guards who would come running just because I used an ability.
"Ack, aak!!!"
Did they finally come to their senses?
A man with a rat-like face shouts mechanically,
"We, we're members of the Western Union!"
The Western Union is one of the four gangs that control Bifron.
I heard their boss is an explorer?
So his rank is...
"If, if you let us go quietly, we won't retaliate—"
What is he talking about?
Kwagic.
I crush his other leg because he's being noisy.
Could it be that he's become more desperate?
"Our, our boss is a 6th-grade explorer!!"
He shouts at the top of his lungs, despite his pained screams.
I can't help but tilt my head.
"Our boss? What do you mean?"
The man tilts his head in confusion as I ask sharply.
He seems to have no idea what I'm talking about. I smile kindly and bend down, patting his head.
"From now on, I'm your boss."
I've always wanted to have underlings.