C157, 158, 159
Chapter 157: Lion (3)
The newbie wearing the Goblin Mask.
Strictly speaking, I'm the newbie, and he's the returning player...
Sorry, but if you're coming back after a long time, you should at least know what's changed. Or you should have listened carefully to the patch notes that the seniors told you about.
"Pl, please stop..."
I immediately withdrew my killing intent the moment the Goblin managed to speak. But if I end it here, they'll just think I'm a bad guy.
[Is this all?]
I decide on today's line, recalling the last words I left them with at the previous gathering.
Consistency is key to maintaining a concept.
"I had some hope since a new member joined..."
I mutter briefly, expressing my disappointment.
As if I had some expectations because of the new member, but as expected, it turned out the way I thought it would.
As if I was just trying to gauge his level, not bully him.
"Boring."
I turn my gaze away from the Goblin Mask, as if that was my only intention. And I glance at the Clown, Fox, Crescent Moon, and Antler Mask one by one.
Implying that I'll be even more disappointed if they only share boring information again today.
"Pfft, don't worry, Lion. I brought something you'll find interesting this time."
I don't answer.
I just rest my chin on my hand and wait.
Thinking inwardly,
'Clown, if he's saying this, it must be really important information.'
Is this why everyone bosses around their juniors?
Just as I'm pretending to be indifferent...
Clack.
The doors to the round table room close as the time comes.
It means there won't be any more members joining.
However, there's one thing I need to do before the meeting officially begins.
"Goblin, get a grip."
"This guy is funny. He's always acting all high and mighty."
"Pfft, compared to last time, Lion was being considerate, and he's still like this! Ha! Don't you feel ashamed because of him?"
The Fox and Antler Mask chuckle as if they agree with the Clown's words.
"Indeed... it wasn't as intense as last time."
"Yes. I was able to endure it this time."
I feel a pang of guilt as I see them subtly winking at me, as if thanking me for going easy on them.
The reason is simple.
'That was my full power...'
That's the maximum output of my killing intent, which I can freely turn on and off.
I practiced countless times after seeing the Kaltstein master use it in real life, but once I enter full-on mode, I can't control it.
Well, it's a good thing they interpreted it as consideration.
Is this why people should at least appear strong?
"So, sorry. I'm fine now."
Anyway, the Goblin finally comes to his senses.
He still avoids my gaze as soon as our eyes meet, as if traumatized by what happened earlier.
'He's definitely weaker compared to the other four.'
Just look at the Fox Mask.
She endured my full-on killing intent for much longer, but she's only wary and cautious, not terrified like this.
"Then who should we start with?"
Fox then looks at the Clown, taking the initiative.
The Clown shrugs.
"You save the best for last, right? How about we start with Mr. Goblin?"
"Ahem, sure."
The Goblin clears his throat as if to make up for his earlier blunder and shares information.
"Everyone knows that High Priest Ludwig of the Star went missing."
"So?"
"The culprit was Orculus. They kidnapped him and were using him."
Don't tell me, this guy is a priest?
Is that why he knows?
That thought crosses my mind, but the jewel on the round table emits a red light.
"Pfft, it seems like more than half of us already know about it."
I feel a bitter taste in my mouth.
It hasn't even been a fortnight since I delivered the letter.
Lee Baekho and the others who should know about it have already heard something—
"You'll get used to it quickly. You need more than just ordinary information to satisfy those two."
Huh?
"I didn't know about this. Maybe the temple will support the royal family because of this."
Listening to Fox and Crescent Moon, it seems like they didn't know about it.
'Then the red light came on because the Clown, Antler, and I knew about it?'
I can't help but click my tongue.
But has the Clown been observing me the whole time?
He gets up and scolds the other three.
"Hey, are there no unspoken rules anymore? I thought we agreed not to make it obvious that we didn't know something."
"Sorry, I felt bad for Goblin."
"We let it slide when it was just us. But there's a new member now, right? Let's all be careful from now on. Okay?"
"Al, alright."
Ah, so there was a rule like that.
Well, if they keep doing that, it's inevitable that it will be revealed who knows what.
I was secretly worried about this, but it worked out well thanks to the Clown stepping in.
'But it doesn't seem like he did it just for me...'
Something similar happened at the previous gathering.
[Crescent Moon, don't be too disappointed. Most people wouldn't know what you're talking about, you know?]
The Clown was the first to act like this back then.
That means...
'Did he judge that the information could be used to deduce his identity?'
Although I'm not sure, it seems plausible.
But if that guess is true...
'The Clown is either from the temple or the underground city. One of the two.'
The latter seems more likely.
I can't imagine him working for the temple.
Well, he might be intentionally playing a character like me.
'But that's not what's important right now.'
I focus back on the meeting and listen to the Goblin's next piece of information.
Was he shocked that the previous information received a red light?
"The Goddess of Stars has given an oracle."
The next piece of information immediately receives a green light.
But does even the Clown not know about this?
"I want to buy information about who received the oracle."
"I don't know about that..."
"Pfft, even the paladins don't know? It seems like the temple is really keeping it under wraps."
"We agreed not to say that!!"
"Ah, my apologies. But why are you so sensitive when it's something everyone knows?"
The Goblin Mask glances at me at those words, and the Clown laughs incredulously.
"You think he would even care about you?"
The Goblin Mask can only sputter angrily, unable to refute.
I make a mental note.
[Goblin Mask = Paladin.]
Anyway, the meeting continues.
The next turn after Goblin is Fox, who's sitting next to me.
"A Double Numbered Item will be auctioned at the Celestial Auction House next month."
Double Numbered Item.
In other words, it means a Numbered Item between 11 and 99 will be auctioned.
But did the Clown's words about following the rules have an effect?
Although there's no conversation after the information is shared, the atmosphere becomes heavy.
As if they're looking at each other as competitors.
'Phew, I need to get access to the Celestial Auction House soon.'
The Celestial Auction House is located in the Imperial City of Karnon.
And to enter the Imperial City, I need to gain more fame or increase my explorer rank and accumulate achievement points.
It will take at least a year.
'And I don't even have the money to buy a Double Numbered Item. I guess I'll have to give up this time.'
I cleanly let go of any lingering thoughts.
I don't even know what item it is, and if I had that much money, it would be better to use it on 'Garpas's Necklace' that I obtained from the Count's banquet.
"The royal family is planning to subjugate Noark."
After Fox, Antler shares information, and the green light comes on. So Lee Baekho's words about a subjugation force being formed were true.
I should stay away from that, as he advised.
Next is Crescent Moon's turn.
"Items presumed to be the Dragonslayer's equipment appeared on the black market. Although Dragonslayer itself wasn't there, something must have happened to him."
The green light comes on again.
I barely maintain my composure, keeping my chin on my hand.
Appeared on the black market?
I only took Dragonslayer itself.
At first, I'm confused, but I quickly figure out the situation.
'What Baekho said must be true.'
The Dragonslayer lost his memory.
Probably because of that pill.
The person who fed him the pill must have taken the rest of his equipment and sold it on the black market.
'It's finally the Clown's turn.'
It's now the Clown's turn, as we're going clockwise from Goblin. Everyone is looking at him with anticipation, as he built up the atmosphere beforehand.
"Hmm, would you like to go first, Mr. Lion?"
"You seem quite confident."
"Of course. If I share information that everyone already knows, you might not come back next time, Mr. Lion?"
I chuckle and nod.
I have no intention of playing along with his childish games, so I'm just telling him to go in the original order.
"Well, then it can't be helped. Maybe Mr. Lion's story will be more entertaining!"
The Clown shrugs flippantly.
And he stretches, contorting his body in a bizarre way, and then casually says,
"A Bonding spell that can bind up to six people will be created within three years."
Silence follows his words, spoken in a playful tone.
And everyone's gaze turns towards the center of the round table.
"Green light..."
It means that the Clown's words are true.
No, at least he believes them to be true.
"Crazy, is that even possible?"
"The guild, the royal family, the clans... everything will change."
The members exclaim in shock, regardless of the unspoken rules that the Clown mentioned.
Well, it's only natural.
It means that not only will the basic team composition change, but the scope of explorers' activities will also expand significantly...
'Six people can enter the last floor?'
It's practically like the probability of clearing the game has increased several times over.
Five people and six people are different.
It means that combinations and synergies that were impossible in the original game, whether it's 10x mode or 100x mode, become possible.
However, in the midst of all that, the Clown is only staring at me.
As if he doesn't care about the other members' reactions.
"So, what do you think?"
His eyes, hidden behind the small holes of his mask, meet mine.
The emotion within them is clear.
'This is like a child who wants to be praised.'
I chuckle and open my mouth.
Honestly, but without breaking character.
"This is... a bit interesting."
One praise sticker earned.
__________________
There's a saying, 'Even whales will dance if you praise them'.
Well, they might also dance after being whipped hundreds of times…
But there's a huge difference in efficiency.
What truly motivates people is the future.
The reward they desperately desire and anticipate.
"Ahem, then it's Mr. Lion's turn, right?"
The Clown, who received a praise sticker, awkwardly averts his gaze and changes the subject.
All eyes turn towards me as if they've been waiting.
Everyone's eyes are sparkling, thanks to the bombshell the Clown dropped earlier.
'...This is a tough one.'
Actually, I had prepared a few pieces of information to share here today.
But...
'The quality of information has increased significantly.'
Thanks to the words I left them with last time, it feels like everyone is revealing their trump cards.
The Clown is especially determined.
Information about a 6-person Bonding spell?
It's something I wouldn't have gotten if I hadn't adopted a mysterious persona.
'Phew, it's a good thing, but...'
The pressure has increased significantly.
What the hell should I talk about?
Of course, I do have information that would meet their expectations, but...
'This is something that will affect me too if others know about it.'
The problem is choosing information that's useless even if you know about it, like the Demonic Halfling one.
And besides, it would be strange to bring up a labyrinth-related topic when everyone else is talking about things outside.
'Hmm, this is the best option, I guess.'
I make a decision after carefully calculating the impact of this information.
And...
"You were curious about the oracle earlier, right?"
I look at the Clown and speak.
As if to say I'll reward him for entertaining me.
"I wasn't planning to talk about the reason—"
I cut off the Clown's misunderstanding and mutter,
"It was an oracle with a sacred relic."
"Yes?"
"A new sacred relic appeared in the world through an oracle given by the Goddess of Stars."
The Clown, who was momentarily dazed as if he heard something unbelievable, comes to his senses. And he looks at the jewel emitting a green light and asks cautiously,
"...May I ask what kind of sacred relic it is?"
His voice is cold, unlike his usual playful tone.
'Right, what's important to you isn't who received the oracle, but what the sacred relic is.'
I smile happily and answer,
"If you bring me something interesting again."
"Pfft, I'm glad you'll come back."
The Clown then laughs flippantly as usual.
But I can feel it.
That I'll be able to hear more interesting information next time I come.
Although I can't even imagine what it will be...
"I look forward to it."
When that time comes, I'll probably say this.
That it was boring.
---------------------------------------
Chapter 158: Lion (4)
The reason I mentioned the sacred relic at the gathering is simple.
Leaving aside the fact that it makes me feel a bit uneasy since it’s information related to me, it has many advantages.
‘First, it helps maintain my mysterious persona.’
It’s right after the Clown hyped up the atmosphere.
It seems more plausible than suddenly bringing up a labyrinth-related topic.
It was the information you were curious about, right?
Here, I’ll tell you. It’s a reward.
If I just say it like that, even the members who were expecting to hear what kind of information I would share will be speechless.
And that judgment was correct.
I could even see their expectations for me increase, far from being disappointed.
“…Do you happen to know where the Master is?”
I shrug at Fox’s question.
It means that I wouldn’t mind telling her if she brought me something interesting too. Fortunately, she seems to understand as she clenches her small fist.
As if she’s determined to find out someday.
‘I’m going to say it’s boring no matter what she brings…’
Although I feel a pang of guilt…
…I quickly shake it off.
It’s a business relationship where we meet with masks on.
It’s only right to focus on my own benefit.
‘Still, it seems like it motivated them well.’
That was the second advantage I considered.
It’s difficult to guarantee complete anonymity in Watchers of the Round Table due to its structure. The very fact that you know information that others don’t means that you have access to that information because of your status.
‘Crescent Moon talked a lot about fairies, and Fox seemed to be well-versed in the latest information about people and events rather than hidden pieces.’
Of course, unlike Goblin, whose identity as a paladin was revealed, the other masked figures seemed to be staying within the line.
But to bring interesting information, they’ll inevitably have to reveal their hand.
If I use this concept well, it will be a great help in deducing their identities.
‘I’m especially curious about the Clown’s identity.’
In that sense, this is a good opportunity.
He’s also curious about my identity.
Since I can only share information about the labyrinth in this situation, I can’t miss the chance to appear knowledgeable.
If it were just the first few times, it might be different…
But if I keep doing that, they might start suspecting that I’m just a nobody who knows a lot about the game.
Anyway, the third advantage.
[I want to buy information about who received the oracle.]
The Clown already showed a strong interest in the oracle, and I judged that it would be more rational to use it like this if it’s information that will be revealed anyway.
Of course, I’m not sure how much he’ll be able to find out. I don’t know how tight-lipped the people in the temple are.
But…
‘I can actually confirm it through him.’
What if the Clown, who’s considered high-level even among the Watchers of the Round Table, can’t find out?
Then I can relax.
It means that the secret is being kept well.
Just as I’m racking my brains, maintaining my chin-on-hand posture…
“So, shall we go for another round?”
The second round begins, led by Fox.
This time, it’s Goblin’s turn first, and there’s a slight mishap from the start.
He received a red light and then barely managed to get a green light on his next attempt…
…but the members all objected.
“The saint’s real name. Although it might be useful if we look into it…”
“You’re trying to take the easy way out.”
“If it were before, it might have been different. But it’s going to be difficult to get away with this now.”
In the end, Goblin had to come up with new information that the members would find satisfactory, and he barely managed to pass the turn to the next person.
Ah, for reference, the information was, as expected, related to the temple.
‘If the 2nd Paladin Captain is the woman who was next to Krovitz when the oracle was given… don’t tell me she’s a lesbian?’
Although it was closer to a scandal, the members didn’t object.
I think I understand their thoughts.
They judged that it’s valuable information that could be used as leverage against the 2nd Paladin Captain if they could just find evidence. After all, homosexuality is considered a grave sin in this world.
“Well, then it’s my turn.”
Fox, who was next, revealed the identity of the Double Numbered Item that will be auctioned at the Celestial Auction House.
“You’re using one piece of information twice.”
Although Antler expresses his dissatisfaction, he doesn’t raise an official objection.
He knows it too.
That the Double Numbered Item is worth that much.
Anyway, the turns continue, and secret information is shared from the members’ mouths.
Antler talks about royal politics, and Crescent Moon mentions a story about a fairy successor who committed a grave sin and was stripped of their position.
“Hmm, it’s my turn now?”
Even the Clown, who dropped the bombshell about the 6-person Bonding spell, shares ordinary information this time.
Well, is it really ordinary?
“Actually, the masks we’re wearing aren’t just random choices.”
“What do you mean?”
“The Master said that when you choose a mask for the first time, you choose the one that most resembles your fate.”
It’s a very interesting statement.
Although it’s a bit ambiguous as useful information.
“That’s why Goblin seems so pathetic to me. A weak but cunning fate.”
The Goblin Mask, who became the target of the Clown’s blunt example, trembles with anger.
But did he feel a bit sorry for him?
“I don’t know about Goblin, but Clown, I think I understand why you’re so unlucky.”
Antler mutters sarcastically towards the Clown.
However, the Clown just chuckles without any sign of offense.
“But this doesn’t seem like very important information.”
“Yeah. It’s a bit interesting since the Master said so…”
“Tell us something more useful.”
The Clown clicks his tongue at the three’s objections.
“Tsk, I even gave you a clue about fate. Is this what they call casting pearls before swine?”
He mutters and then subtly looks at me.
I just stay silent again this time.
Silence is always the safest option.
“Then I guess I’ll have to tell you something that’s on your level.”
The Clown then shares new information.
It’s about the Explorer’s Guild, and this time, it passes without any objections.
And so, it’s my turn again.
I share one of the pieces of information I prepared beforehand.
It’s high-level information, but it’s the kind of information that’s useless even if you know about it.
“The Stone of Resurrection exists.”
Everyone’s gaze turns towards the center of the round table as soon as I finish speaking.
And the moment the jewel emits a green light…
“…….”
“…….”
…silence falls.
__________________
“Um… what’s the Stone of Resurrection…?”
Goblin is the first to speak.
Fox answers his question, which he asks cautiously,
“It’s an item that can revive people. No, I should say that’s how it’s known.”
The ‘Stone of Resurrection’ is an item whose existence was only known through rumors even in the game.
It’s understandable.
You need insane luck and to fulfill ridiculous conditions to obtain it.
I also obtained it purely by chance the first time, and even after learning the conditions, I couldn’t get it again. But how could these guys, who cleared the cheat version, possibly know about it?
“So, so… if you have that, you can really revive dead people?”
Crescent Moon asks cautiously.
His voice is filled with unconcealed excitement.
Is there someone he wants to revive?
“Yes.”
I decide to offer a bit of service in return for the useful information I received today.
“With the Stone of Resurrection, you can revive the dead.”
Although there are complicated requirements, the effect itself is as it’s known to the outside world.
But was he not satisfied with that?
“Then do you happen to know who—”
“Stop.”
I cut off Crescent Moon coldly and mutter,
It means that if he wants to hear more, he should bring information that’s worth it.
Crescent Moon then comes to his senses.
“Then at least tell me what you’re interested in. I need that item.”
Hmm, I didn’t expect this…
I contemplate for a moment.
Lion, the eccentric who’s bored with everything and even participates in these gatherings just to find something interesting.
What would he answer here?
A suitable line soon comes to mind.
“I don’t know either.”
Lion doesn’t even know himself…
“What I’m interested in.”
It’s a slightly chuunibyou setting, but it’s a decent concept.
If I make excuses like this, they’ll bring me useful information from a wide range…
…and it will be easier to judge anything they say as boring.
“That’s going to be a difficult task. To entertain someone like you.”
Crescent Moon lets out a long sigh.
His eyes are filled with determination to find out. I subtly look away, resting my chin on my hand.
Could it be that I look lonely?
A moment of silence follows as no one speaks.
“Ahem! So, what should we do now? Shall we go for another round if everyone’s okay with it?”
Fox takes the role of a moderator and leads the conversation, and Goblin raises his hand.
“I’ll be leaving now. I don’t have any more information that would satisfy you guys.”
“Then I’ll leave too. I prepared a few more things just in case, but seeing today’s level, I’m not confident.”
As Goblin and then Antler declare their non-participation, it’s naturally decided that the meeting will end here.
But what’s this?
‘Ha, again?’
Everyone is just looking at me without leaving.
Come to think of it, it was the same at the previous gathering.
They’re pretending not to, but they’re curious about my evaluation, I guess?
Their pride must have been hurt last time.
Because I said, ‘Is this all?’ and acted disappointed.
‘…Then what should I say this time?’
I contemplate for a moment and then make a decision.
And I glance at each of the colorful masks and chuckle.
As if to say their efforts were commendable.
“I look forward to next time.”
Thanks for the great information.
__________________
The round table room where Lion left.
Goblin blurts out the question he’d been holding back in a dazed voice.
“…Who the hell is he?”
“He’s definitely not an ordinary person.”
Antler answers, clicking his tongue, and Goblin sighs deeply.
He just asked to see if they could brainstorm together.
Why is he always treated like this?
Goblin then reveals what he’s been thinking about alone.
“…Maybe he’s one of us.”
“Pfft, what are you talking about, Goblin?”
“Less than ten people in the church know about the oracle. And each of them is at least a High Priest or a Captain. If he’s one of them, everything would make sense—”
“Ha, so that’s what you were thinking.”
The Clown cuts him off and snaps irritably.
“This is why you’re always underestimated. Why are you so simple-minded? You think he’s a cardinal? A captain? You think he’s just that level?”
“But! It doesn’t make sense otherwise. It hasn’t even been a fortnight since the oracle was given…”
“Tsk, pathetic. Can’t you even consider the possibility that he’s someone’s pawn?”
“That’s ridiculous…”
Goblin trails off, as if it’s absurd.
He knows how devout the high-ranking officials of the temple are.
They’re not the type to submit to an outsider.
But what’s this?
“Wait a minute, are you all thinking the same thing?”
Everyone except for him is readily accepting that ridiculous statement.
“Because there’s no other explanation.”
“Honestly, I thought he would be a lone wolf type. But to think he’s not…”
“Maybe we’ve made a connection with someone much more powerful than we imagined.”
At this point, he’s starting to wonder.
Could it be that the man’s influence really reaches the core of the church?
Of course, he can’t be certain yet.
So Goblin focuses on the following conversation.
“Then let’s put our heads together during the remaining time. Even if we can’t figure out his identity, we might be able to get a sense of what kind of person he is.”
“That’s a good idea. Maybe we can even find out what he’s interested in.”
The brainstorming session begins at Fox’s suggestion.
The goal is to figure out Lion’s identity.
“I’ll go first. He wasn’t even interested in the Double Numbered Item. It probably means that he’s strong enough not to need something like that.”
“It was the same with the Noark subjugation plan. He didn’t even flinch when he heard about it. He definitely has eyes and ears in the core of the royal family.”
“Pfft, I don’t know for sure, but he must have killed at least a few thousand people. To not even know what he’s interested in, I haven’t seen many people that broken.”
Every time they share their observations, I wonder if they’re all hypnotized or something.
And the highlight is Crescent Moon’s guess.
“Maybe… he already knows our identities.”
“What do you mean, Crescent?”
“When he first brought up the Stone of Resurrection, he was looking directly at me. As if he knew about my story.”
Goblin can’t help but laugh.
He’s not an ordinary person, that much is clear, but isn’t this a bit of a stretch?
‘It’s more likely to be a coincidence… In the first place, he was sitting right across from me.’
Of course, he only thinks that inwardly.
Because everyone else is taking Crescent Moon’s words seriously.
“Hmm, I was a bit curious about why he suddenly brought up the Stone of Resurrection, but that would explain it.”
The Clown is completely convinced, and the others also think it’s worth considering.
Goblin is starting to feel confused.
He’s starting to think that it might be true since all these smart people are saying the same thing.
“Ah!”
That’s when Fox exclaims, clapping her hands.
“Masks! We have masks!”
“Masks…?”
“Yes. Don’t you think we might get a sense of who he is if we think about the mask?”
“Hmm, indeed, if what Clown said is true, we might be able to figure out his personality.”
“Lion…”
The members then take turns talking about what comes to mind when they think of a lion.
“Hmm, when I think of lions, the first thing that comes to mind is the story about them throwing their cubs off a cliff.”
“You mean the one about only raising those who survive? That’s all just a rumor. Well, he must have gone through something much more difficult than being thrown off a cliff to become that strong.”
“Pfft, I can’t think of anything besides the king of beasts. Could it be that Mr. Lion will become king someday?”
“Hmm, indeed, he doesn’t seem like the type to work under someone.”
“I’ve heard that lions are used as a symbol of kingship in the East.”
“Symbol of kingship! That’s interesting!”
Goblin just listens to their conversation.
And he suddenly has this thought.
‘Lions are polygamous… Could it just mean that he’s destined to be popular with women?’
Of course, he only thinks that inwardly.
Because they’ll just look at him pathetically if he says it out loud.
----------------------------------------
Chapter 159: Negotiation (1)
The evening of the 17th.
All the members of the newly formed team gather.
For reference, the meeting place is a three-story bar that recently opened. We were originally going to meet at the bear-like man’s shop, but he refused.
And very firmly, at that.
[Hmm, our shop isn’t a good place to have secret conversations.]
[It’s fine. This time, we’ll mainly be discussing the loot distribution rather than exploration plans—]
[Stop it, I know a place, so let’s do it there.]
Geez, I was going to help boost his sales.
Is it some kind of married man’s instinct to refuse so vehemently?
This man is also strange.
“Am I the last one?”
Everyone is finally gathered as Raven arrives.
“Don’t worry about it, just sit down.”
“Why should I apologize when I came on time?”
Uh, well…
Why is she so prickly today? Ah, is it because of pre-meeting jitters? After all, it’s a meeting with strangers?
‘She’s meticulous in these aspects too.’
I have the thought that she might have intentionally come on time, but I don’t say it out loud.
The contract isn’t signed yet.
“Then let’s briefly introduce ourselves.”
After ordering some food and drinks, we have time to get acquainted.
Ainar is the first to go.
“I’m Ainar, the second daughter of Frenelin! Nice to meet you!”
“Um, Ainar? That seems a bit short…”
“Do, do I have to say more…? I’m sorry, this is my first time in a setting like this…”
Ainar scratches her head awkwardly at Misha’s comment, who has become quite close to her in the past few days.
However, no one points it out.
Because Ainar knows everyone on the team.
She cleared the Crimson Fortress with Raven, and she met the bear-like man a few days ago when she visited his shop.
“Miss Ainar… you haven’t changed at all.”
“Thanks for the compliment. Mage, you seem the same too.”
“…….”
Anyway, I end up introducing Ainar on her behalf. What grade explorer she is, what role she’ll play on the team, and so on.
“So we have two swordsmen?”
The bear-like man gives a brief comment after my briefing, and just as I’m about to respond…
…Ainar interrupts as if pointing out a mistake.
“Beefcake, I’m not a swordsman, I’m a warrior.”
“My name is Urikfrit… No, like I said before, can’t you just call me Avman?”
“…I’ll try. It’s hard to pronounce.”
“Hard to pronounce?”
“Do you have a problem with that?”
The bear-like man seems to have a lot to say, but he just sighs deeply and ends the conversation.
It seems like he’s starting to learn how to talk to barbarians.
The best way is to not talk at all.
“I’m only meeting you for the first time. I’ve heard a lot about you from Bjorn. I’m Avman Urikfrit.”
“I’m Arrua Raven. You’re a Guide, right?”
“Ah, I’m Misha Kaltstein.”
The remaining three then greet each other and professionally discuss their roles.
With this, the first half of the meeting is over.
The food we ordered arrives just in time, so we continue the conversation while eating and drinking.
“This place is quite nice, and the food is good too.”
“If only my wife cooked this well…”
“Are you married, Mr. Urikfrit?”
“Ah, I didn’t mention it, did I? It’s been three years.”
“Bjorn, try this. It’s called squid, the texture is really unique.”
The overall atmosphere is amicable.
Until the topic of the labyrinth comes up as the meal is nearing its end.
“By the way, shouldn’t we get to the main topic now?”
“Right, that would be good. Bjorn, how are we going to split the loot?”
Everyone’s eyes change as the issue of money surfaces.
Well, everyone except for Ainar.
“Can’t we just take whatever Bjorn gives us?”
“That’s easy for you to say, Miss Ainar. But that’s not the case for us.”
The mage, who’s quick with calculations, and the bear-like man, who has a family to support.
Although they’re both good people outside of work…
…they both speak up to protect their rights.
“Leaving aside Misha, I think there’s a problem with Ainar getting the same share. Isn’t she the weakest among us?”
“Beefcake…! You, you were thinking that about me! I, I trusted you!!! I thought of you as a precious companion—!!!”
“Be quiet. Bjorn will take care of it. Okay? Good girl.”
“Ugh…!”
Ainar is trembling with betrayal, and Misha, who’s next to her, thankfully shuts her up in time.
But could it be that even the bear-like man is finding it difficult to speak after seeing her so sad?
“Ahem…”
He clears his throat and avoids her gaze.
And at that moment, Raven naturally takes over and starts appealing to her own strengths.
“I don’t really care about Miss Ainar or Miss Kaltstein. I’m a mage, after all.”
“…Go ahead.”
“With me, we can store essences in test tubes and sell them. I’ve also learned ‘High-Grade Distortion’, so even if you’re aiming for byproducts, we can obtain them much more easily.”
“You’re saying you want a bigger share?”
“Yes. I need to receive at least 30%.”
Phew, this is tough from the start.
Dwarkey readily accepted an equal share with a smile.
“…30% is too much.”
“Too much? My seniors all get that much.”
Geez, who is she trying to fool?
It’s true that mages are treated well in the labyrinth.
Assuming they’re at the same level as the others.
“Those seniors of yours must have joined teams that are below their level.”
“Hmm, are you saying that’s not the case for me?”
Raven is a 6th-grade mage, so it’s only right to treat her as a 5th-grade explorer.
Considering that Misha and I are 6th-grade, and Ainar is 7th-grade, she’s clearly a higher rank.
But…
“We’ll see when we explore together.”
I’m confident.
Regardless of rank, we won’t be in a situation where we’re being carried.
“You’re joining this team because you think so too, right?”
“Hmm, that’s true.”
Raven agrees surprisingly easily.
But is this all just a stepping stone to the next stage?
“But Miss Kaltstein and Miss Ainar are less important than the three of us, right?”
“They’ll be pulling their weight soon.”
“Yes, I think so too. They’ll be able to contribute in a year… no, maybe even a few months. But why should I be at a disadvantage until then?”
Raven suggests that we re-evaluate the distribution ratio when those two can confidently claim their share, and I agree to some extent.
“We’ll all get 20%. But I’ll give you 40% of the special loot obtained through magic.”
“Okay.”
Equal distribution with a bonus for magic loot.
In the end, Raven secures the conditions that a mage in a 5-person team usually receives.
One down.
Now only the bear-like man is left.
“I’ll give you 5% from Ainar’s share.”
Actually, considering that he’s a Guide, it wouldn’t be unreasonable to give him another 10%…
“It’s our first expedition, so be satisfied with this for now.”
The bear-like man readily agrees.
Well, it would be awkward for him to argue too much.
He’s a Guide, but his navigation skills are zero.
“Then this matter is settled.”
And so, the final distribution ratio is decided.
Me 20%.
Misha 20%.
Ainar 15%.
Raven 20% (40% for special loot).
Bear-like man 25%.
Ah, for reference, this only applies to regular loot.
We agreed to split the loot equally for things obtained from defeating marauders.
‘Phew, this is frustrating.’
Now I understand why explorers are so obsessed with promotions.
I need to reach 5th grade quickly.
If the three of us were all 5th-grade, they wouldn’t have even brought up the distribution issue.
‘…Well, it’s still within the expected range.’
I dismiss my regret with a sip of alcohol.
I was worried that those two might be even greedier, but they stayed within the line.
If I weren’t the leader, they would have been much more blatant in trying to secure their benefits.
‘I guess we’ve overcome the most important hurdle.’
Now that the distribution negotiation is over, the team formation is practically confirmed. Although there are still countless things to discuss…
“Right, what about the team? When are we going to register it?”
“Tomorrow.”
“Then I can’t go. I brought a letter of attorney just in case. Please go without me.”
“…Alright.”
We had to discuss everything together, from simple administrative tasks to various other matters.
“Are we going to have a separate team fund? Or just collect as needed?”
“We’ll collect a fixed amount every month.”
“How much?”
How much should the team fund be?
And how will we cover it if it’s insufficient?
Will we use the same distribution ratio for rifts and hidden treasures in the labyrinth?
Whether to acknowledge individual achievements.
Whether there are incentives, and so on.
‘We didn’t do this much for Team Misfits…’
When I come to my senses, only Raven and I are diligently talking.
Snore!
Ainar is dozing off with her head tilted back.
The bear-like man is drinking alone, enjoying his newfound freedom, and Misha is scribbling in her notebook.
She’s not taking notes or anything…
It’s just a hobby. She’s not good at cooking, so her hands get itchy, I guess?
She started drawing a few days ago.
“…What did you draw?”
“Ah, it’s nothing.”
“An orc?”
“Pfft!! Yeah, an orc. Kuku.”
It’s a creepy reaction, but Raven calls out to me before I can ask in detail.
“Mr. Yandel, we’re still talking…”
Ah, right.
My concentration is waning after several hours of brainstorming. If it were an important topic, it might be different, but I’m getting tired of meticulously deciding on trivial things.
I check the time and speak.
“Raven, let’s end it here today.”
“Yes? But I still have things I prepared.”
“…Prepared?”
“Things we need to discuss before forming the team. I organized them before coming here.”
When I ask how many are left, Raven answers that there are thirty-one items left.
‘…We haven’t even finished half?’
I feel like I want to die of boredom just thinking about the remaining topics, but considering her personality, they’re probably things that will be helpful.
“But it’s too late. Let’s do the rest next time.”
“Okay.”
We make an appointment for two days later and disband.
I feel physically and mentally exhausted.
I thought I had a similar personality type to mages…
‘…But now that I’ve seen the real deal, I know for sure.’
I’m glad I chose to be a barbarian.
____________________
The next morning, after the first meeting.
The four of us visit the Explorer’s Guild.
And we officially register the team, even submitting the letter of attorney we received yesterday.
“The team name is ‘Bjorn’? Isn’t that too uncreative?”
Ainar grumbles, but I just did it according to custom.
The official name of Team Misfits was also just ‘Murad’.
People usually just use the leader’s last name or first name.
“We can change it later if we think of something better, so don’t be too disappointed.”
“Ca, can I also think of a name?”
“Sure.”
“Really! I’ll think hard!!”
She’ll probably forget about it in a few hours…
But it doesn’t matter.
The team name isn’t important.
“Avman, what about you?”
“I have to go back to the shop. My wife is waiting.”
“I see.”
The bear-like man leaves as soon as the team formation is complete, and we have a simple meal outside before returning to the inn.
Because all three of us live here now.
I’m in room 201, Ainar is in 202, and Misha is right across from us in 207.
“Uh, Bjorn, there’s something in your mailbox.”
“Mail?”
I check inside at Misha’s words, and there’s a letter.
A letter with the seal of the Leathlas Church.
‘Could it be that the appointment with the Dragonkin has been set?’
I quickly enter my room and check the contents.
But what is this?
[He will summon you.]
There’s only one sentence written inside.
The sender’s title, ‘Pal Krovitz, Captain of the 2nd Paladin Order’, is longer than the message itself.
‘What?’
Just as I’m tilting my head in confusion…
…the letter bursts into flames and turns to ash in an instant. I’m grateful that they took security measures as I requested…
But this makes it difficult for me to understand.
“…….”
I sit on the bed and organize my thoughts.
I can roughly guess who ‘he’ that Pal Krovitz mentioned is. It must be the leader of the Dragonkin, the Ancient Dragon.
But there’s one thing I don’t understand at all.
‘Summon me?’
It would have been easier to understand if he had just written down the time and place of the meeting. I was the one who asked him to arrange the meeting as discreetly as possible.
‘How is he going to summon me? Is he going to visit again and set up an appointment?’
Just as I’m having that thought and collapsing onto the bed…
…a blue magic circle is drawn on the wooden floor.
“Huh?”
Before I can even figure out what’s going on…
…the magic circle emits a brilliant light.
And when I come to my senses…
‘It’s like being summoned to another world.’
…I’m in an unfamiliar space.
It’s a structure reminiscent of a Greek temple, supported by giant pillars.
‘The Dragon Temple.’
I quickly grasp the situation.
‘Is it a teleportation-type Dragon Speech? And the letter acted as a medium?’
I understand the circumstances roughly.
It’s not bad.
This would make maintaining secrecy much easier.
“You’re not surprised.”
I then look straight ahead.
Scales on his skin and reptilian eyes.
A man with all the characteristics of a Dragonkin is sitting on a throne, staring down at me. For reference, the area behind the throne is shrouded in fog, and dozens of eyes are gleaming within it.
Don’t tell me they’re all Dragonkin?
Just how many people did he summon?
‘…Geez, with those eyes.’
I feel a different kind of pressure from killing intent.
It’s like encountering a natural enemy, another species that I can never defeat, with my bare body.
It’s ‘Dragon Fear’.
Something that all Dragonkin have passively equipped.
‘To use that on me…’
I smile bitterly.
Because I think I understand their intentions.
“Do you know? You’re not the first barbarian to visit this place. But…”
“…….”
“If you return alive, you’ll be the first.”
It’s a kind of intimidation tactic.
Considering their personality, they wouldn’t steal Dragonslayer from their benefactor without proper compensation, but they still need to break my spirit.
They don’t know what kind of unreasonable demands I might make as a barbarian.
“…….”
I break out in a cold sweat as Dragon Fear intensifies.
But so what?
I didn’t grow up so sheltered that I would lose my mind just because I’m sweating a little.
‘…Why do the people here like these battles of nerves so much?’
Thanks to that, it’s become clear what I need to do right now.
I didn’t expect to have to do this before even exchanging names…
But it would be better to show them quickly.
That their intimidation tactics using Dragon Fear or whatever…
“Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!”
…are all futile.