C205, 206, 207
Chapter 205: A Fleeting Moment (1)
Inside a grand hall, located deep within the Noark fortress, a man was conversing with someone through a crystal ball.
“Amelia Rainwales. Have you found that explorer?”
[Not yet, Lord.]
“I see…”
It was the first regular report he received since the city’s lockdown.
Although it was too early to expect any results, the Lord couldn’t help but sigh.
But more bad news was delivered.
[But there’s something I need to tell you.]
“What is it? Tell me.”
[Starting this month, the royal family will be distributing specially crafted identification tags to explorers.]
“…Magic tools?”
[Yes.]
“Tell me more. You must have already looked into it.”
The Lord then listened to Amelia’s explanation about the ‘identification tags’ that the royal family was planning to distribute.
The more he heard, the more grim the situation seemed.
Identification tags personally designed by the royal family’s Archmage…
“It would take us months to create something similar.”
[Yes, I agree.]
“Thank you for the information. Focus on your mission and don’t worry about this. I’ll see you next month.”
The Lord closed his eyes and fell into deep thought after ending the call.
And after some time…
“Ah, you’re here.”
He summoned the treasurer and first checked Noark’s financial situation.
No, to be precise, he asked this:
“Treasurer, how long can we last without entering the labyrinth?”
“Three months, if we continue like this.”
The situation wasn’t good due to the aftermath of the last battle.
But they had never been ahead of them.
So this was a familiar situation.
Something their ancestors had also experienced.
“If we starve and endure? Then how long can we last?”
“…About twice that.”
“I see.”
The Lord nodded briefly.
And then he summoned his aide and gave him an order.
“Blockade the labyrinth until I give you further instructions. No one is allowed to enter.”
“…There will be strong opposition. Do you know how long it will last?”
The Lord answered firmly,
“At least until we can create identification tags similar to the ones the royal family made.”
It would be certain death if they entered before then.
So…
“We have to endure until they let their guard down.”
They had to wait for the right time and endure.
And then it would surely come.
A single opportunity to change everything.
___________________
「The labyrinth is closed.」
「Character is being transported to Lafdonia.」
___________________
Light gradually filled my closed eyelids.
I opened my eyes leisurely, and a clear blue sky filled my vision.
The warm city air filled my lungs with every breath.
I could feel the passage of time throughout my body.
‘It’s already June…’
Six months had passed since that day I was exiled to Bifron.
Winter, which was like a joke compared to Korea, had long since ended, and now even the short spring was coming to a close.
‘Interesting.’
It was March when I came to this world.
It’s really been over a year since I arrived here.
I felt a strange sensation, just like when I paid my 1st-year taxes.
Honestly, my life on Earth was becoming increasingly blurry.
Well, it’s only natural.
If you include the time I spent in the labyrinth, I’ve been in this world for almost two years.
“Hey, are you going straight back to the inn?”
“For now. Let’s have a drink after we wash up.”
“I’m back!!”
I dismissed my brief thoughts and checked my surroundings, which were no different from usual.
‘Nothing happened this time either.’
I was curious about the other floors, but judging by the reactions around me, it seemed like there weren’t any incidents.
Geez, making me worry for nothing.
Swaaa.
I looked down and checked my wrist.
The identification tag, engraved on my wrist like a tattoo, was already scattering into particles of light, even though it hadn’t been long since I returned to the city.
Although it was a hassle to get a new one every time we entered…
…its performance was completely different from the previous identification tags, which could be easily stolen.
Coincidentally, those bastards from the underground city disappeared without a trace since these were introduced.
‘…I thought it was about time for them to reappear.’
Earth and this world have completely different ecosystems.
A world without flowing rivers or fertile land for farming.
Both Noark and Lafdonia have to create food using magic stones from the labyrinth to survive.
‘But it’s already been 6 months without any news…’
I feel uneasy, especially since I heard from Fox at the Round Table last month that the large clans had formed an alliance to prepare for a surprise attack from Noark.
Where the hell are they hiding?
It’s not like they have another way to obtain food besides magic stones.
“Mr. Yandel! Why are you so late?!”
Raven waved her hand from afar as I was organizing my thoughts while walking.
Even the bear-like man, who’s always late, was already there.
“I had something to think about.”
“Hmm, you could have done that while waiting in line…”
Geez, she’s so obsessed with efficiency.
Anyway, I was the one who was late, so I apologized and got in line.
It only took a few minutes for the line to disappear.
After all, this is the 5th-grade checkpoint.
“Team Apple Nark, 5th grade… is that correct?”
It’s one of the many changes that occurred in the past six months. I, Ainar, and Misha were promoted to 5th grade, and our team rank also increased by one level.
It was a bit of a hassle since we had to clear a guild quest to become 5th grade…
…but we cleared it together three months ago.
I judged that we would be underestimated if our rank was low, and being underestimated would lead to more trouble in this industry.
“Wow, they even give out candy here. Bjorn, did you know?”
“No.”
I put the candy Misha unwrapped and handed to me in my mouth and sucked on it.
“Sweet.”
Lafdonia, a city that’s merciless to the weak.
I’m starting to feel like I’m being treated well wherever I go.
“So we’re doing the settlement tomorrow, right?”
“Why are you asking something so obvious?”
“Ooh! Then let’s go! Home!!!”
We exchanged the magic stones and left for the city.
Although the 5th-grade checkpoint even has bathing facilities for convenience, we didn’t use them this time either.
Why bother when we can wash up at home?
“Then I’ll see you guys at the bar tomorrow. Honey, I’m home!”
We disbanded in front of the bear-like man’s bar to prevent him from getting lost and headed straight home.
It’s a four-story building located in the inner area of the 7th district, just a 10-minute walk from the commercial city of Commelby.
We use the 1st and 2nd floor, and another explorer couple lives on the 3rd and 4th floor.
We rarely see each other since the entrances are separate.
“Ugh, home!”
It’s a new house that’s superior to our previous single-room accommodation in every aspect.
Actually, it’s only been two months since we moved in.
It was a property we really liked, and the reason we were able to move in was because the previous tenants moved out at that time.
Ah, of course, we’re renting.
The sale price was insane.
“We take a long time to wash up, so eat first if you’re hungry!”
Ainar and Misha went to the bathroom on the 1st floor, which has a bathtub, and I washed up in the small bathroom on the 2nd floor.
Although it’s small, it’s still much better than our previous accommodation.
I chuckled as I lathered my body with soap.
‘Maybe this is also a change.’
A spacious house with a kitchen.
Soap from a workshop, not mass-produced soap.
And an expensive bed I bought after splurging.
I’ve started to improve my quality of life here, instead of stubbornly saving every penny and desperately trying to return home.
But I don’t want to think of it as an inefficient act.
I don’t know how many years I’ll be spending here.
No, with the Genesis Artifact gone, I don’t even know if returning is possible anymore.
‘And besides… I don’t even know if I have to go back.’
I dried my hair with a towel, as if to shake off my weak will, and left the bathroom.
Swaaa!
It seems like the others are still washing up downstairs.
Although I’m hungry, Misha’s cooking is much better, so I just sit on the sofa and doze off.
After some time…
“You woke up just in time. Come eat.”
I look towards the kitchen, drawn by the appetizing smell, and the table is filled with food. It’s mostly meat, as expected of a meal for two barbarians.
We chat while eating.
“Ah, right. Are you going to drop off the equipment today?”
“Of course. We have to take good care of it to use it for a long time. Gather it all after we eat, I’ll go alone.”
“Okay. But are we going to Hikurod’s blacksmith again this time?”
“We should at least be his regular customers. It’s not like it requires any special skills to check equipment.”
The dwarf opened his blacksmith’s workshop a while ago.
It’s been about three months, and it seems like he’s struggling to break even, as expected of a business that relies on regular customers.
Well, it seems like it’s getting better.
“But about Hikurod… if his shop fails, he’ll come back as an explorer, right?”
“Don’t say that in front of him.”
“Hey, are you crazy? I’m not that thoughtless. I’m just a bit worried.”
“Huhu, Misha, why are you so worried? If he fails, we can just hire him as our butler!”
“Butler…?”
“Wouldn’t Hikurod be fun!”
What does she think a butler is?
I don’t know, but it’s foolish to take a barbarian’s words seriously.
We giggle for a while, talking nonsense.
“Then I’ll go to the blacksmith’s, you guys sleep first.”
“Should I come with you?”
“It’s fine. It’s not like I’m going to do anything special.”
I put the kids to bed and then head to the dwarf’s blacksmith’s workshop with the organized equipment. And after dropping it off for inspection and repair, I return home and lie down on the bed.
It’s a super king-size bed that I bought after splurging 350,000 stones.
‘Right, this is it.’
I close my eyes, satisfied with the unchanging comfort.
I suddenly remember the past.
Was it when we had to stay in Commelby because we missed the last carriage? Back then, I sighed, wondering when I would be able to sleep in a bed like this every day, saying I had a long way to go…
“…….”
It’s already been over a year since I came to this city.
I don’t even flinch when I’m covered in blood anymore.
In fact, days without blood feel more awkward, and I don’t even feel anything after killing people instead of monsters.
I ask myself before falling asleep.
Am I living a more humane life now than back then?
__________________
The nap that lasted until the next morning ended with Misha’s visit.
“You said you were going out later, right? Wake up!”
“Ah, thanks.”
“Do you want breakfast?”
“No, we’re meeting and eating together.”
“Ah, right?”
I wash up again and prepare to go out, and I hear snoring from the 1st floor.
It seems like Ainar is still sleeping.
Ah, for reference, Misha and I each have a room on the 2nd floor.
Although there are two rooms on the 1st floor…
Snore!
…she snores louder than me.
We’re just using the remaining room on the 1st floor as a shared storage room.
“Then I’ll see you at the bar later.”
“Okay, have a good time!”
I leave the house after saying goodbye to Misha.
And I walk to Commelby, which is a 10-minute walk away.
After passing through the gate and walking for about 30 minutes, I reach the public transportation platform where we agreed to meet.
Raven is already there.
“You’re late. It’s been a while since I got off the carriage.”
“…I think you just came early today.”
“You’re so perceptive. Come on, let’s go. I’m starving.”
After meeting up with Raven, we first have a meal at a restaurant we frequent and then dispose of the loot we earned from the last expedition by visiting various general stores and the exchange.
We earned more than usual this time.
It’s thanks to a 5th-grade essence dropping in the other world inside the mirror we obtained by hunting a Millarodden.
“It might take a while for it to be sold, but I’ll distribute it with my own money first and receive it later.”
“Well, that’s good for us, but are you okay with that?”
“What’s there to be not okay about? It’s just a hassle to wait until it’s sold and then gather again to split it.”
That’s true, but we’ve always done it that way.
We judged that it was the least problematic method.
“…What’s with that look?”
“Nothing.”
“It doesn’t seem like nothing.”
“You’re imagining things.”
I try to suppress my laughter and walk straight ahead.
Come to think of it, she’s also changed a lot.
She’s still not very honest, though.
“It ended faster than expected. Let’s go to the bar first.”
We finish selling the loot and head towards the bar, our meeting place.
As expected, no one has arrived yet.
“This is better. We didn’t have time to organize last time.”
Raven orders drinks and takes out a piece of paper, then starts writing down the settlement details.
It takes longer than expected.
She always said it was nothing special when I asked.
“Thank you.”
“…Hmm, suddenly?”
“You’re always taking care of the annoying tasks for our team.”
“I wouldn’t have done it if there was at least one other person who could. Why don’t you pay me for it?”
“Alright, I’ll pay you. How much do you want? I’m sure everyone will agree.”
“…No, thanks. Do you think I’ll become rich from that?”
Geez, she would be much more popular if it weren’t for that grumbling tone.
“Oh, I thought I would be the last one.”
The bear-like man arrives, and the melee damage dealer duo also comes soon after.
And so, the settlement begins.
“It’s 8.5 million stones per person.”
We each receive a large sum of money thanks to the Millarodden dropping a mirror. I already paid back my debt two months ago, so all this income goes into my pocket.
“Then let’s talk about other things.”
After the settlement, we relax, eat and drink, and plan the next expedition.
Well, to be precise, it’s more like an announcement.
“I’m not planning to go to the Hellfire Canyon anymore.”
“Yes? Why?”
We’ve been hunting in the Hellfire Canyon for six months and entered the other world through the mirror three times.
And we finished exploring the ‘Ash Gray Mountains’ and the ‘Lava Lake’, which we couldn’t clear before.
It wasn’t that difficult.
We had the ‘Orb of Fire’, which blocks fire damage, and our combat power had increased significantly compared to when we first entered that place.
“Is there a reason to leave the place that’s most compatible with us and go somewhere else?”
Raven expresses her concern at my decision, as if she’s enjoying the Hellfire Canyon.
But this is non-negotiable.
“We can’t stay on the 5th floor forever. It’s time to explore other places.”
We’ve obtained everything we can from the Hellfire Canyon.
So it’s time to move on to the next chapter.
“So where are we going?”
“Frost Canyon.”
“Uh, Frost Canyon…”
Misha glances at me, trailing off.
She knows it’s a field where she might have an opportunity, unlike the Hellfire Canyon.
Well, she’s not wrong.
Many essences that synergize well with Misha, who’s ice-attribute, drop in the Frost Canyon.
And one of them is what I’m aiming for.
‘Once I absorb that essence, we’re done with the Frost Canyon.’
After that, I plan to level up in the remaining two fields of the ‘Great Magical Forest’ and then find a way to reach the 6th floor.
Well, it will take at least another year to get there.
‘Still, we’ve come a long way.’
That’s when…
Swaaa!
…the vine ring on my hand emits light.
“Bjorn, don’t tell me…”
Unlike the first time, I don’t try to deny it or deceive myself. I don’t even try to reattach the vine by licking it.
It wouldn’t change anything anyway.
「The activation condition for the Star’s Blessing has been met.」
The second vine, which was blocking death flags related to the Dragonslayer, has broken.
Damn it
-----------------------------------
Chapter 206: A Fleeting Moment (2)
[It’s been a while, Miss Rainwales.]
Amelia involuntarily tilted her head as she received a call from the city through the crystal ball.
Because it wasn’t the Lord’s voice that was in her memory.
“…Old Man Alchemist?”
[Kekeke, it’s an honor that you recognized me by my voice.]
“…How can you use the communication network?”
[I asked the Lord. I told him I had something to ask you and that it would be more convenient for both of us if I could speak to you directly. And I could hear your voice too.]
“I see.”
It wasn’t something she couldn’t understand.
The alchemist was as important as the Lord in Noark. The Lord had no choice but to grant his request.
Amelia quickly got to the point.
“So what is it you want to ask?”
[Ah, it’s nothing special. More importantly, how are you doing?]
“…You know that kind of talk doesn’t suit me.”
[You still haven’t let go?]
Amelia kept her mouth shut, avoiding the question.
The old man, whom she had known since childhood, was one of the few people who knew her circumstances.
[Miss Rainwales, I have a guess as to why you accepted this mission. But it’s time to let go. I’m sure your sister would also rather you—]
“Stop.”
Amelia cut him off coldly.
“Enough with that, just tell me what you need.”
Those who are left behind have their own roles to fulfill.
She didn’t want to be interfered with, even by the old man.
[…Alright. Then let’s get to the point.]
The alchemist then listed a few items he needed, and Amelia wrote them down so she wouldn’t forget.
They were mostly alchemy ingredients like magic reagents.
Nothing special, but things that were difficult to obtain in Noark, which was under lockdown.
[How long will it take you to get them all?]
“A few days should be enough.”
[Really? Then could you get me some Sleeping Flower Pollen a little earlier?]
“I can send it to you right now.”
[Oh, do you have some?]
“…You already knew, didn’t you?”
Sleeping Flower Pollen has a sleep-inducing effect.
Although the effect isn’t that strong, she often used it because it could bypass poison resistance.
Not on her enemies, but on herself.
“I’ll put it in the two-way subspace pocket as soon as we’re done.”
[Kekeke, then we’re already done?]
The old man chuckled as if he was disappointed.
Amelia, who was about to end the call, stopped as a question came to mind.
“But… what do you need Sleeping Flower Pollen for?”
Amelia felt awkward asking that question.
Because she wouldn’t have asked if it were normal.
She rarely asked others questions first. Especially if it was out of simple curiosity.
But…
“There are very few alchemy formulas that use Sleeping Flower Pollen.”
…today was different.
She felt like she was missing something important.
[Ah, that?]
The old man’s voice soon came through the crystal ball.
[It’s for treating Dragonslayer, Regal Vagos. Ah, not for making medicine, but it would be easier to put him to sleep beforehand.]
“…Don’t tell me you found a way to restore his memories?”
[Not that, I’m just planning to heal his broken body first. As you know, we need all the strength we can get right now.]
“I see.”
Amelia let out a sigh of relief.
As long as his memories weren’t restored, it wouldn’t affect her, whether he recovered or not—
[Kekeke, but once his body recovers, I’m planning to try restoring his lost memories.]
Amelia froze.
[The method is so drastic that it’s impossible in his current state. Well, the success rate is only about 50% since there aren’t many samples.]
50% success rate.
It was an incredibly low probability to leave things to chance.
But it wasn’t a big problem.
It would be fine if his body didn’t recover.
“I see.”
Amelia ended the call with that.
And she put the Sleeping Flower Pollen in the two-way subspace pocket as promised.
Coated with a deadly poison that destroys living tissue upon consumption.
___________________
The second vine broke.
I had let my guard down because it had been quiet for a while…
‘What the hell is that bastard up to?’
A sense of urgency washed over me.
Because I wasn’t fully prepared to meet him yet.
Although I had grown in many aspects, I was still just a 5th-floor explorer, not a 4th-floor explorer anymore.
But there’s only one left now.
‘6th floor. I have to get to the 6th floor as soon as possible.’
If I reach the 6th floor, there’s a chance I can absorb that essence.
My second core essence after [Gigantification].
If I just obtain that, I’ll be able to somehow go toe-to-toe with him—
“Mister!”
Huh?
“What are you thinking about so hard?”
I snapped out of my thoughts at Erwen’s voice.
Could it be because we had such a long period of peace?
It wasn’t even the last one, just the second vine broke, but I kept having anxious thoughts, making my mind complicated.
“Sorry. Where were we?”
“We weren’t talking, I was asking what you wanted to order…”
“Ah, right.”
I glanced at the menu and ordered some snacks and beer.
“This place hasn’t changed at all.”
Erwen muttered, looking at the employee who was returning after taking our order. I didn’t have to ask what she meant.
“We’ve changed so much.”
I was currently at a bar called ‘Fidefuss’, the place where we had our return drinks after my first expedition with Erwen.
So it was only natural for me to feel a strange sensation.
The barbarian who struggled on the 1st floor because he didn’t have a companion had become a fairly famous explorer in the city.
Although I haven’t gained fame, Erwen had also grown tremendously for someone who just finished her 1st year.
The change was evident just by looking at her equipment.
“This is our first time drinking together since then, right?”
“Ah, when I paid my 1st-year taxes?”
For reference, it was right after I moved.
So I was wondering where to meet her and decided on this place.
Misha would definitely be unhappy if I invited her to our house.
In the first place, I can’t do whatever I want since it’s a shared space with three people living together.
“Anything happen during this expedition?”
“…No, it was the same as before.”
We started talking in earnest after the drinks and snacks arrived.
The main topic was catching up with each other.
We didn’t have much in common anymore since our paths diverged, unlike before when she would visit every day.
“How’s the atmosphere in your clan? I’m a bit curious. Any news?”
“Well? Even if there is, they wouldn’t tell us…”
Erwen and her sister, who joined a clan they knew as mercenaries, were still exploring the labyrinth with them.
For reference, their area of operation was the 5th floor.
But we haven’t encountered them in the labyrinth yet since we were only hunting in the Hellfire Canyon.
“By the way, I’m so annoyed. You know that guy I mentioned before? The one who keeps hitting on my sister? He’s doing it to me now.”
“You’re having a hard time.”
“Yes, he’s a high-ranking member, so I can’t just shoot an arrow between his eyes… I just have to endure it. Until I get everything I can and leave.”
I realize that she’s also changed a lot as we continue talking.
It’s only been a little over a year since she became an explorer.
But she’s no longer naive.
Well, it’s only natural.
A year in the labyrinth is enough time to see all sorts of things.
“By the way, tell me now. You said you had something to say.”
“Ah, that…”
Erwen hesitated for a moment and then spoke as I judged that the atmosphere was ripe.
“Do you remember? I said I still had a lot to learn from my sister…”
“I remember.”
She also said she would join my team after absorbing everything from her sister within six months.
Well, it’s already been more than six months since then.
I never brought it up first.
There was no room on our team, and besides…
“I thought you changed your mind since you didn’t say anything.”
I just thought it ended vaguely.
But was that not the case at all?
Erwen vehemently denied it.
“Wha, what are you talking about! There’s no way I would do that. We’re companions!”
Strictly speaking, my first companion was Hans A.
He was that ‘Hatz’ spirit or whatever.
“So what do you want to say?”
“That… it will take a little longer.”
“What do you mean?”
“You, you’re all 5th-grade, right? There’s no room for me to squeeze in at my current level… Actually, I don’t think there’s any hope anymore… Ah, no, we’re practically li, living together now…”
“What are you talking about? Speak clearly.”
Erwen chugged down the rest of her drink at my words.
“I regret it. Back then… why didn’t I accept your offer? I thought I would be able to close the gap quickly, but it’s only widening…”
It was closer to a lament than a request.
But I think I understand what she’s trying to say.
She wants to join our team, but she can’t ask us to kick someone out.
Her specs aren’t even better than the current members.
Hmm, so she hasn’t changed her mind.
“Anyway, so what I’m trying to say is…”
“Stop.”
I cut her off.
There was a misunderstanding I had to clear up first.
“I never intended to add you to the current team.”
“…Yes?”
A brief silence fell.
Confusion appeared in Erwen’s eyes a moment later, as her gaze darted around restlessly.
Tsk, that wasn’t what I meant.
I said firmly before the misunderstanding grew any further,
“Erwen, I’m going to form a clan.”
“A, a clan?!”
“Of course, not now, it will take a few months. But if you’re okay with it, I’d like you to join—”
“Okay!! I’ll join!!”
The answer came before I could even finish my sentence.
“No, but at least let me explain—”
“It’s okay! I’m joining anyway!”
“…If that’s the case. Anyway, this is a secret. I haven’t told anyone on our team yet.”
“Uh, so I’m the first one you offered this to…?”
Huh?
I tilted my head.
“Isn’t that obvious?”
How could I make an offer without even mentioning that I’m forming a clan? In the first place, there’s no need to even ask Misha and Ainar.
Raven, who’s from the Magic Tower, will probably refuse.
I’m not sure about the bear-like man.
‘He seemed to have some bad memories of clans.’
That’s when…
“Hehe, hihihi!”
…Erwen started making a strange laughing sound.
__________________
The drinking party with Erwen, which started in the early evening, lasted longer than expected.
I was originally planning to just listen to her request and catch up, and then leave…
“What? The clan master is bald?”
“Yes, that’s right. It was so hard to hold back my laughter when his wig came off during a hunt.”
But our conversation was very entertaining today.
Is it because I haven’t had alcohol in a long time?
Why is it so funny even though it’s nothing special?
‘Ah, the kids will be waiting at home…’
That thought crossed my mind, but Erwen kept bringing up interesting stories, so I couldn’t find the right time to leave.
But it’s really time to go back now.
“We, we should—”
“Ah, right!”
“Huh?”
“Did I tell you about the new essence I absorbed?”
What? She absorbed an essence?
I couldn’t just leave without hearing about this.
“It has a really unique ability. And it suits me well.”
“Stop beating around the bush and tell me. What did you absorb?”
I adjusted my posture and listened to Erwen attentively.
It was a 5th-grade essence.
Since it was an essence her veteran sister recommended, it was a perfect fit for her, a bow-wielding fairy.
‘I don’t have to remove this later.’
I thought I should help Erwen plan her build when I get back and asked her about the essence she absorbed.
“Wow, you know? Your eyes are sparkling all of a sudden.”
Well, it’s only natural.
I’m a player who loves this game more than anyone else.
“It’s an essence that people say is very unique. I can’t help but be curious about how it actually feels.”
“But it’s hard to explain. I can’t show you…”
Hmm, that’s true.
That’s when, as I nodded in understanding…
“Um, so… mister.”
…Erwen glanced at me, trailing off.
Her face was flushed, perhaps from the alcohol.
“Do you want to go upstairs and see my ability for a bit?”
…What should I do?
-----------------------------------------
Chapter 207: A Fleeting Moment (3)
Most bars in this city also offer lodging.
In other words…
“Do you want to go upstairs and see my ability for a bit?”
…it meant she was suggesting we get a room and she would show me her ability.
It wasn’t strange, as this had happened before.
But…
“I don’t think that’s possible.”
“…Yes?”
I expressed my refusal firmly as I looked at the flustered Erwen.
“It’s late. I have to go home.”
Because I had a cat waiting for me.
“Show me next time you have a chance.”
“Ah… okay!”
I know myself well.
As a gamer who’s more interested in this world than anyone else, it was clear that I would stay up all night experimenting if I saw her ability.
“Ah, you’re back?”
I parted ways with Erwen and arrived home, and Misha, who was reading a cookbook in the living room, approached me and sniffed.
“It seems like you didn’t drink much.”
“I didn’t feel like drinking.”
“Hmm, really?”
I felt uncomfortable making eye contact, even though I didn’t do anything wrong.
Was it because I didn’t tell her I was meeting Erwen?
Hmm, that seemed to be the reason, but I couldn’t help it since she would have been unhappy if I told her.
I naturally changed the subject.
“By the way, where’s Ainar?”
“She’s sleeping in her room.”
“…I see. You should go to sleep too.”
Just as I finished the short conversation and was heading upstairs, Misha stopped me.
“Wait, sit over there.”
Don’t tell me she found out?
“It’s good for your body to have something to settle your stomach before going to bed. It’s nothing special, I’ll just make some stew.”
“Ah… thank you.”
I sat down at the kitchen table as instructed.
Misha put on an apron and started cooking, and I silently watched her.
“…….”
Her tail was moving.
Swish, swish.
As if she was annoyed.
My contemplation didn’t last long.
“I met Erwen today.”
I confessed honestly before missing the golden time.
“…Really?”
Her answer was a bit delayed, but her voice didn’t sound surprised.
“…Are you angry?”
Misha chuckled at my question.
“…Angry? I would be if she were even a threat.”
Misha said so and then dumped the pot full of stew into the trash can.
Her words and actions didn’t match.
“Why…?”
“Ah, the seasoning wasn’t right.”
“I, I see?”
“Wait, I’ll make another one.”
Misha then made a new pot of stew and served it to me. And she said she was tired and went up to her room.
‘…What was that about?’
I felt a sense of dissonance, but I ate the stew in my bowl. As always, it was perfectly seasoned for my taste, and I ate it all without any side dishes.
Misha failed to season the stew?
‘There’s no way.’
After finishing my meal, I roughly cleaned up and opened the trash can.
And…
“…….”
…I froze, holding the lid of the trash can.
‘…It’s a good thing I confessed.’
The stew in the trash can was full of carrots.
She already knew.
From the moment she came up to me and sniffed, she knew who I had met today.
____________________
Time flows like water.
You can’t stop it with your hands, and you can’t turn back what has already passed.
Therefore, we only have one choice.
To somehow row our boat towards our goal.
‘Right, let’s start today.’
I got out of bed and looked in the mirror for a moment, motivating myself.
It’s a gamer’s know-how.
You have to do something like this to avoid getting tired of repetitive quests.
“Bjorn… oh, you’re awake? Then can you wake Ainar up for me?”
“Okay.”
My daily routine had been the same, almost like a repetitive quest.
Wake up at 7:00 AM, have breakfast with Ainar, prepared by Misha, and get ready to go out.
“Are you going to the library again today?”
“Why? Do you want to come with me?”
“No, it’s fine. I’m going to take Ainar to the training center later.”
After breakfast, Misha and Ainar go to the training center they have a monthly membership at to warm up, and I go straight to the library.
“Are you here for that book again today?”
“Ah, it’s more interesting than I expected.”
“Huhu, you should be grateful. I set it aside for you because I thought you would come.”
I’ve been reading a long novel series lately.
Ragna recommended it, and it’s much more interesting than I expected.
The content is also substantial since it’s set in the labyrinth.
‘Well, it’s a bit unrealistic since all the characters are good people.’
But it’s not unbearable if I think of it as a novel.
Honestly, it’s a decent form of entertainment.
The problem with this world is that there aren’t many hobbies besides drinking and partying.
“Then keep up the good work.”
As always, I close the book I was reading and leave the library around 1:00 PM to have lunch.
The menu is a meat-filled lunchbox prepared by Misha.
I eat it by the fountain, and then it’s time to meet Rotmiller.
“You’re late today. About 30 seconds.”
“…….”
“A good navigator has to be aware of the weight of time. We’ll start the lesson right away since you’re late today.”
It’s already been over six months since I started receiving scout training from Rotmiller.
Honestly, I thought it would be over in a month or two.
But Rotmiller’s knowledge is like an ocean. There’s always something new to learn.
“It seems like you’ve mastered the basics, so let’s move on to the advanced course.”
“More importantly, what happened to what I said yesterday?”
“You mean about opening a training center?”
“Yeah.”
It was Rotmiller who first mentioned the training center.
But the more lessons I receive from this man, the more I feel like it would be a huge success.
Navigation skills that anyone can learn, even if they don’t have good ears like fairies, a good nose like beastmen, or the natural talent of a Guide.
Rotmiller’s essence, the reward of his hard work.
It’s already appealing, and on top of that, this man is a first-rate teacher, perhaps because he started from the very bottom.
‘But this man has no idea of his own worth.’
Honestly, I don’t understand why he hasn’t done it yet.
Unlike the dwarf’s blacksmith’s workshop, it practically requires no initial capital.
“Think about it seriously. You’ve been doing nothing but relaxing for months.”
“It’s not relaxing, I’m taking time to cultivate myself.”
“Then wouldn’t it be even better to do it? There’s a saying, ‘you learn by teaching’.”
“That’s… hard to deny. Indeed, I’ve also learned quite a few new things while teaching you.”
“So what’s your answer?”
“I’m not ready yet.”
I subtly click my tongue.
It seems like Rotmiller is reluctant to retire from active duty…
“Really? Tell me when you make up your mind. I’ll help you.”
“Anyway, thank you.”
“I mean it.”
Actually, I’ve already made a rough plan.
First, I’ll rent a training center and use it as a classroom, targeting human children who want to become explorers.
And once it’s established, I’ll advertise at the Explorer’s Guild and operate a separate class for explorers.
That would be more profitable.
Of course, it would take a long time to get it up and running…
‘But Rotmiller is human.’
Humans have low taxes.
Once it’s established and generates a certain amount of income, he won’t have to worry about making a living.
‘Well, it’s all over if he doesn’t want to do it.’
If capital is the problem, I’m willing to invest to some extent. The concept of stocks is still unfamiliar, but it’s not completely nonexistent in this world.
It’s also perfect for investment…
“That’s all for today’s lesson.”
Anyway, today’s lesson ends after a few hours.
It’s around 8:00 PM.
Is it because it’s the advanced course? The explanation was longer than usual, so it ended about an hour later.
“Then tomorrow… no, I can’t come tomorrow.”
“Let’s meet in three days, just in case.”
“Alright. Take care of yourself this time too.”
Anyway, my daily routine ends here.
I often spend my evenings drinking with explorers introduced by the dwarf or the bear-like man, listening to industry news, or having a bonding time with my team…
But I don’t have any appointments today.
And I’ve already taken care of my special bi-weekly routine, so my schedule is completely empty.
It’s my first free time in a long time.
‘Should I go back to the library? Or go to the training center and work out?’
I hesitate for a moment and then enter a random bar and order a drink.
Right, there should be days like this sometimes.
“Keuh.”
I organize my thoughts, drinking lukewarm beer.
‘There’s really nothing going on these days.’
My daily routine isn’t boring.
Honestly, it’s comfortable and enjoyable.
But on the other hand, my anxiety grows.
Because I know that these dream-like days won’t last forever.
‘…But it’s still okay for now, right? There wasn’t anything at the Round Table.’
The Round Table gathering I attended two weeks ago wasn’t much different from before.
Everyone looked at me with awe as I shared information while acting all serious, and I listened to the information they shared, pretending to be bored.
That was the entire event.
No one brought any interesting information that could pique my interest, and the gathering itself ended after just two rounds.
‘Ah, was there really nothing strange?’
But if I had to choose one unusual thing from this gathering…
…it would be the Clown.
[Then I’ll see you next month. Pfft.]
The Clown said goodbye for the first time when the gathering ended.
Not to me, but to the other members.
In a slightly meaningful tone.
‘Does it mean something interesting will happen next time?’
Well, I don’t know.
It could just be a whim.
After all, that’s his character, and I’m not a prophet or a mind reader.
‘I should get up now.’
I get up from my seat after about an hour of wallowing in self-pity and head home.
When I arrive, the melee damage dealer duo has already returned from the training center and is bickering.
Well, to be precise, it’s more like Ainar is being scolded.
“Ainar! I told you to put your laundry in one place! Do you think you can become a great warrior like this?”
“That… I was going to do it later! I really wasn’t trying to avoid it! Especially not because I was lazy!”
“This is your last warning. If you do this again, you’ll have to wash your own clothes… Oh, Bjorn, you’re back? What about dinner?”
“Not yet.”
I drank, but I didn’t order any food.
“Really? I’ll make something quickly, so go wash up first. Hey! Ainar! Where are you going! I’m not done talking yet!”
“Tsk! She caught me!”
I then head to the bathroom, leaving Ainar, who’s being scolded by Misha, and when I come out after washing up, the table is full of food.
It seems like she put in extra effort since it would be difficult to eat like this tomorrow.
“Thank you, Misha.”
“Don’t mention it…”
After dinner, we play card games that Misha bought from the market and spend time until late at night.
After all, it’s better to sleep late today.
“The sun is rising.”
“Next time, let’s invite Beefcake and Aruru and play together!”
“Are you going to keep saying weird things? I don’t know about Aruru, but Avman should be at home. He has a wife.”
“Then we can just invite his wife too!”
What is she talking about?
I cut in and end the conversation before it turns into a pointless argument.
“Enough, let’s go to bed. Try to sleep in as late as possible.”
The labyrinth opens tomorrow night.
_____________________
「Entered 1st Floor Crystal Cave.」
_____________________
Pitch-black darkness.
It’s an obvious phenomenon considering we just entered the labyrinth, but no one is flustered.
It’s because we’ve experienced this several times since then.
“Liate.”
A dimly lit light orb floats above our heads, illuminating our surroundings. The first thing I see is a Floor Stele located on the dead end wall.
“We arrived properly again. At this rate, I think we can consider it a law, not a special phenomenon.”
The dimensional instability bug with a 100% success rate.
As always, Raven approaches the stele first and places her hand on it.
Is the mana flow structure when a portal is generated so unique that she can’t get a sense of it after just one or two tries?
Of course, I don’t know what she’ll use it for even if she figures it out.
Is it even useful?
「Opened a portal for the first time. EXP +2」
Anyway, we enter the portal, and the unique musty air and the ground greet us.
Damn it.
「Entered 2nd Floor Beast’s Lair.」
Of all places, we ended up here.
“Mr. Yandel, what are we going to do?”
“…We’re going back down.”
Even though I’ve been taking Rotmiller’s lessons for over six months, this place is impossible.
There are too many forks in the road, and the rules are too complicated.
Even Rotmiller had to use his sense of smell to navigate this floor, and he even told me it was better to just give up.
“Then are we going to the Goblin Forest again?”
What else is there?
We return to the 1st floor and head towards the Goblin Forest, the route we’ve used the most. It’s not that difficult to navigate the Land of the Dead or the Rock Desert…
But this route is the fastest.
“You might be able to get portal opening achievement points too. We’re going to move quickly, so follow me closely.”
I took out the compass and started navigating.
We left the dark zone without getting lost even once, and then we continued moving along the shortest route, crossing the border between the dark zone and the normal area.
I didn’t even have to ask the bear-like man for the portal’s location.
I’ve mastered the Crystal Cave now.
Thud.
That’s when, a little over 2 hours after entering the labyrinth…
“Mr. Yandel.”
…Raven stopped me, riding on Ainar’s back.
“So, something’s strange.”
“…Strange? What do you mean?”
“Mana is swirling in the center. As if dozens of people are casting a joint spell…”
A joint spell refers to a method where mages link their unique mana to cast high-level magic or amplify the power of a specific spell.
For reference, it’s often used in large-scale raids.
But to think it’s being used on the 1st floor…
“…I can also feel dark magic. The aura of cursed magic.”
And even dark magic is being used.
The situation is serious.
“…It must be Noark, right?”
“Yes. It’s common knowledge that there are many dark mages who are affiliated with Noark.”
“I thought it was too quiet. This is troublesome.”
“Wh, what are we going to do?”
Raven, as if scared of the current situation, showed a side of her that was unlike her usual calm self.
Right, the more that’s the case, the more I have to get a grip.
“Nothing changes. We’ll increase our speed. We’re getting out of the 1st floor as quickly as possible.”
I quickly gave the order and resumed moving.
About 5 minutes later…
“Something’s coming from behind!”
The moment Raven shouted…
Whoosh!
…a red light from the passage behind us grazed past us and disappeared into the distance.
There wasn’t even time to dodge.
“…What the hell was that?”
“I, I don’t know. It seemed like mana…”
I feel a sense of dread.
A magic spell that even Raven doesn’t know.
“Um, Bjorn… wouldn’t it be better to keep moving?”
We continued forward, following Misha’s advice, and I started analyzing the situation.
There were no clear answers.
Maybe that’s why…
“We… will be okay, right?”
…I couldn’t answer that question, even though I knew what a leader’s role was in times like this.
“…….”
In this uncertain situation…
…one thing was clear.
The peaceful days that felt like a blessing…
…had come to an end.