C232, 233, 234
Chapter 232: New Age (2)
A very, very, very big reward from the royal family.
Although I haven’t heard the details yet, my mouth is already watering.
But based on my experience, this is the most dangerous time.
It’s an unspoken rule of the world that you have to return a gift someday.
I need to check if it’s something I can accept.
“What exactly is the reward? And what do I have to do?”
Kyle kindly answered my questions one by one.
The reward hasn’t been decided yet.
And it’s not just for me, but for all the survivors from that day.
They said they would hold a banquet at the royal palace soon.
“What I can say for sure is that there will be a discussion about rewards and punishments, and your contribution will be recognized the most.”
“I see. Do you have any guesses?”
“Not exactly, but…”
Kyle trailed off and then listed the expected rewards, asking me to listen with the understanding that it was just his personal opinion.
“The first is a title.”
A noble title.
“Of course, the probability of you receiving a title is very low. And even if you do, it won’t be a hereditary title. And you won’t have any territory.”
I don’t have high expectations either.
That’s how nobles are in this world.
It’s not something you can achieve just by making a few contributions.
Hmm, at most, I’ll probably just be able to enter the Imperial City.
“The second is an essence. Since the royal family is even opening the Golden Treasury, you can expect something good.”
The Golden Treasury is the royal family’s treasure vault, where even 3rd-grade essences are stored.
“And the third?”
“Equipment.”
“That’s the most typical.”
The third expected reward was high-grade equipment or a Numbered Item. And the fourth was just money.
“They’ll probably distribute the rewards appropriately based on your contributions, excluding the title.”
I roughly understand what he means.
Those with small contributions will just get some money.
Those with significant contributions will get equipment or a 5th-grade essence.
‘Up to a 3rd-grade essence depending on the contribution…’
My mouth is watering even more now.
A 3rd-grade essence is a high-grade essence that you can only normally farm on the 7th or 8th floor.
And I can even choose what I want?
My growth, which has been stagnant for a while, will definitely accelerate.
But…
“So what does the royal family want from me? You haven’t said that yet.”
I haven’t heard the most important information.
What do I have to give in return for this gift?
The royal family would surely try to regain the people’s trust by taking down Noark.
If they want me to join the army and participate in the battle, I’ll have to refuse, no matter how tempting the reward is.
“There’s nothing major. You just have to show that you’re friendly towards the royal family during the discussion about rewards and punishments. The rest is up to them.”
“…That’s both easy and difficult.”
Kyle smiled bitterly at my answer.
“As expected, it seems like you don’t have a good impression of the royal family.”
I answered with silence.
“…….”
Well, it’s only natural.
How could I possibly have a good impression of them?
They took the easy way out and escaped through Dimensional Gate without even trying to find another solution, and then they all died.
“But please understand that what happened that day wasn’t entirely the royal family’s intention. Even among the royal knight captains, the values they pursue are different. There would have been a different outcome if another captain had been in charge.”
Although Kyle defended them, I still felt uneasy.
Maybe it was a sense of responsibility.
It felt like I was betraying those who fought with me after being abandoned by the royal family.
Like I was becoming a collaborator during the Japanese occupation.
I cautiously asked,
“…What do you think about the royal family?”
It was a question that could be considered blasphemy.
Kyle flinched and then chuckled.
“Honestly, I don’t have a good impression of them either.”
It didn’t seem like he was just saying that because I was there.
He wasn’t that kind of person.
But I didn’t expect a 3rd-grade military mage to say that, even in private…
“But the royal family is necessary for this world to be maintained. Well, I’m not really in a position to say that since I joined the army for personal gain, abandoning the Magic Tower.”
“Personal gain?”
“You’ve already noticed, haven’t you? My relationship with the Ruin Scholar, that old man.”
Hmm, that’s true.
“Can I ask in more detail?”
“He’s my master’s enemy. He harmed my master one day while we were researching together and completed that forbidden magic.”
“So you joined the army to take revenge?”
“That’s right. I was devastated when I heard that he had joined Orculus. I couldn’t do anything alone.”
Kyle, in his younger days, judged that he needed the help of the army and the royal family to take revenge.
So he joined them.
The enemy of my enemy is my friend.
“So don’t think too hard about it. What does it matter if you don’t like them? It’s rational to use them if there’s something you can gain.”
Kyle’s advice was perfectly valid.
What could I possibly do by antagonizing the royal family?
It was the same for the other survivors who had a grudge against them.
We had to get something out of this after all that hardship.
“Your expression has improved.”
“Thanks to you.”
“It’s almost time for my next appointment. I’ll be going now.”
“Thank you for coming. I’ll see you out since I can’t walk properly.”
“Haha, you were going to see me out? It’s fine, rest. You’ll be busy from now on.”
“Busy?”
Kyle, who was heading towards the door, turned around at my question.
And…
“You’ll find out soon.”
…he left with a meaningful smile.
___________________
「Character’s fame has increased by +10.」
「Character’s fame has increased by +10.」
「Character’s fame has increased by +10.」
「Character’s fame has increased by +10…….」
「…….」
「…….」
___________________
The day after Kyle left, we had visitors.
Raven and the bear-like man.
“Now that everyone’s rested, let’s do the loot settlement.”
“Shouldn’t you ask if I’m okay first?”
“You look fine. And besides, you’re the one who pushed yourself so hard, do we have to worry about you too?”
Uh, is that so…?
I feel a bit offended as a tank, but the following words make it all go away.
“So please stop getting hurt.”
She said it bluntly.
But she continued, as if embarrassed,
“It’s not Miss Kaltstein’s fault. It’s like she’s the only one taking care of everything.”
“Uh, me? I’m fine… well, it would be good if you didn’t get hurt, but…”
“Miss Kaltstein is too kind, that’s the problem. If we leave him alone, he’ll die before his time.”
“…Enough, let’s just take care of business. Loot settlement? Did you sell all the equipment?”
“Yes. I’m exhausted, but I endured it and sold everything, so be grateful.”
So Raven went to the city on the first day we returned.
In other words, she sold the loot as soon as the investigation was over, without even resting.
The reason why she sold it so quickly was simple.
“We have to sell it quickly to get a good price.”
There was a huge loss in the total explorer population.
It’s a fact that the price of equipment will drop since the demand has decreased. And besides, 99% of the loot the survivors brought back was equipment, so there would be an oversupply.
“Thank you. I didn’t even think about that.”
“…You would be a superhuman, not a barbarian, if you could think about that in that situation.”
Geez, she could have just said ‘you’re welcome’.
“What are you talking about?! Bjorn is a super barbarian!!”
What is she talking about again?
This everyday noise is strange, maybe because this expedition was so gloomy.
“Then let’s all sit down.”
I organized the situation before the introduction became any longer and had my companions sit on the sofa.
And we started the loot settlement.
It didn’t take long since Raven had organized everything.
We just had to listen to the details and receive the money.
The settlement ended quickly, and we were chatting and spending time when…
…the bear-like man brought up a new topic.
“Ah, by the way, I don’t know if you heard since you’ve been staying at home. Yandel, you got a new title.”
“Oh, really?!”
Ainar was excited, and even Misha and Raven looked curious.
It seemed like it wasn’t widely known yet, since even Raven didn’t know.
As expected of a bar owner, he’s quick on the uptake with this kind of information.
‘A new title…’
So I’m finally graduating from Little Balkan?
“Well, what do you think it is?”
“Huhu, what do you think?”
The bear-like man enjoyed the attention and didn’t answer right away.
Various guesses were exchanged among my companions, and then he finally asked me,
“What about you? Yandel, do you have any guesses?”
“Well, I hope it’s not Big Balkan.”
The bear-like man clicked his tongue slightly, as if disappointed with my reaction, and then told me my new title.
“Giant.”
“Huh?”
“It’s Giant. Your new title.”
Hmm, it’s simpler than I thought.
So now I’m Giant Bjorn, son of Yandel? I chuckled at the silly thought, and Misha commented,
“It’s a fitting title. It also represents [Gigantification], one of your essences.”
“Damn right, I also thought of it as soon as I heard it. Ah! But why did you get that title before? Did you not have that essence back then?”
The bear-like man, who was smiling happily, expressed his doubt.
It was Raven who answered.
“No. I heard he had it back then. He was probably even bigger than he is now. Right?”
I nodded.
Back then, I was 1.5 times bigger than I am now, using the Vampire skill [Blood Master] to borrow [Unholy One] from Misha’s brother.
But the title I got was ‘Little Balkan’.
“Hmm, bigger? Then why was it called that?”
The bear-like man tilted his head in confusion. Raven answered again.
“I think… I know.”
“Huh? You know?”
“Yes. It must be… because he didn’t seem this big to people back then. Mr. Yandel’s back.”
My face flushed at her words.
Especially since everyone seemed to agree.
“So you’re saying he looked bigger even though he was smaller… Right, right, that could be it.”
“Yeah, I think I understand.”
“Bjorn is a great giant!! He’ll definitely leave the biggest footprint in this world someday!”
Ah, I wish she wouldn’t do that.
I quickly changed the subject.
It was the conversation I had with Kyle.
Everyone except for Ainar listened with interest, forgetting about my new title, ‘Giant’, since it was related to the royal family.
“A banquet… I wonder how many people will attend.”
“Mr. Urikfrit, you’re so naive. It would be faster to count how many people won’t attend.”
“What?”
“They’ll badmouth them behind their backs, but realistically, who would want to antagonize the royal family? And they’re even offering to reward us for our hardships.”
“Bu, but we have our pride as explorers. Yandel! Say something.”
“Honestly, I agree with Raven.”
“…What?”
“If we’re not going over to Noark, it’s only natural to take what we can get.”
Explorers never lose money.
Although it wasn’t to this extent, most explorers were very sensitive to losses.
Anyway, we finished our conversation and disbanded after having a meal together.
“Then I’ll be going.”
“See you next time. Contact us if anything comes up.”
Raven and the bear-like man left.
Ainar went out, saying she was going to the sanctuary, and Misha also left to go grocery shopping.
The house was suddenly quiet.
But soon, I heard a knock on the door.
“Teterud…?”
“Haha! I heard you’re still bedridden, so I came. How are you? Can you drink?”
“…Don’t tell Misha.”
Although it was broad daylight, I let him and his clan members in and drank with them, catching up.
But as it was coming to an end…
“Oh, you’re here too?”
…there was another visitor.
“Melter Pend.”
“Just call me Melter. It’s been a while, Bjorn. I was originally going to visit sooner, but I was busy with the funerals of the clan members who died. Ah, can I come in?”
“Of course.”
Teterud and his clan members left after a while, saying they had another appointment, and then I had a private conversation with Melter.
The main topic was the battle against the wolf bastard.
And I heard something surprising.
“You awakened Aura…?”
“Haha, it wasn’t a complete awakening, I just saw a glimpse of it and was able to use it a little.”
He, who was once an apprentice knight, had manifested Aura during the battle.
Well, it still seemed unstable…
‘A 3rd-grade explorer who can use Aura…’
I could already imagine Melter’s name echoing throughout the city.
It wouldn’t even take long.
After all, countless high-ranking explorers had died.
Bang, bang, bang!
Anyway, the visitors didn’t end with Melter.
“Yandel! Are you there! I heard you can’t even walk properly yet?”
The warriors I had met that day.
Or explorers who came to thank me.
They came to my house one after another.
We drank.
Misha served them meals.
“I wish Elbertin was here too…”
And sometimes we had a moment of silence.
And the visitors weren’t just them.
“So, you’re called Giant now? This dwarf can’t even live with this much humiliation. Hahaha!”
The dwarf and Rotmiller came after hearing about me.
“It seems like you won’t be able to come to the library for a while… I’ll bring you some books to read next time I visit.”
Ragna and Shabin, the members of the friend gathering.
“You did something big, didn’t you? I’m proud of you.”
The chieftain even came all the way from the sanctuary.
Ah, for reference, he also knew about the banquet and gave me a warning.
“There’s poison in the King’s smile. Don’t get too close to the royal family.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.”
“Then it’s settled. Let’s drink!”
Those visits continued for several days.
Ah, and there were many repeat visitors.
Because the royal family had sent out invitations to the banquet a while ago.
“…Are you going to fight back?”
“We have to fight back! If we let this slide, we’ll just be under their feet forever!”
Some came and asked me to join them in fighting against the royal family, and some gave me sincere advice.
No, to be precise, the latter was much more common.
“Put aside your anger for now and think rationally.”
“You were the one who suffered the most. Who could possibly say anything if you receive a reward?”
“If the discussion about rewards and punishments is canceled, even the explorers who died won’t receive any compensation. You have to think about their families too.”
“To be blunt, this is a great opportunity for you. Please don’t miss it. I’m truly saying this for your sake.”
Those conversations made me think.
My choices now affect not just me, but many others.
I listened to their opinions one by one, feeling a sense of responsibility.
Ah, until Misha exploded.
“Hey! Tell them to stop coming!! No, just go out and meet them!!”
It was understandable for her to be angry.
____________________
May 10th.
A little over a week had passed since the disaster. We woke up early in the morning and got ready.
Today was the day of the banquet.
“Ack! Ti, tighter!”
“You, you’ll die, Misha!”
“It’s fine, just… ugh!”
Misha came out of her room, wearing a dress with Ainar’s help, while I was waiting on the sofa.
Her face was flushed.
“…Is, is this… weird?”
“…No, not at all. It looks good on you.”
I meant it 100%.
It was a fancy dress, completely different from the tight pants or plain skirts she usually wore.
It was white with red accents, and the length was just above her knees, so it didn’t seem to hinder her tail movements.
Did they even consider the fact that she’s a beastman?
‘I should thank them later.’
“St, stop staring.”
“Ah, sorry.”
“So that’s all…?”
I quickly added,
“…The pin in your hair is pretty.”
“Hmm, what about the necklace?”
“That too.”
“Hmm, okay?”
Misha didn’t say anything else, as if I passed.
The atmosphere was awkward, so I changed the subject.
“Where’s Ainar?”
“Right, Ainar! What are you doing? Come out!”
“Bu, but…! I’m embarrassed too! Can’t I just wear my armor?”
“I told you you can’t wear weapons or armor to the royal palace! Come out. It’s not weird at all!”
Ainar was eventually dragged out by Misha.
For reference, she wasn’t wearing a dress.
It was a slim-fit men’s suit that looked like it was tailored for her.
‘It looks like a uniform.’
She was wearing tight white pants, a shirt, and a long coat made of high-quality fabric.
But it had a fancy feel to it because of the various emblems and embroidery on the coat and shirt.
“Th, this is weird, right?! Right! Th, this kind of clothes wouldn’t suit a warrior like—”
“It looks good on you, why are you being like this?”
“Ugh, don’t tease me…”
It’s been a while since she’s acted like this.
“Tease you? I’m wearing similar clothes.”
For reference, I also received a suit similar to Ainar’s as a gift. It was navy blue with brown accents, the same color as my hair.
But the color scheme, embroidery, and emblems were much more masculine than Ainar’s.
Well, the biggest difference was something else.
“It’s tight.”
I adjusted my tight clothes and looked in the mirror for a moment.
It’s the Tailcoat Barbarian Mode.
In a way, it looked even more intimidating than when I was wearing armor.
Did suits always accentuate muscles this much?
This is like a gangster.
“Bjorn! There’s a carriage outside!”
“Really? Then let’s go.”
We finished getting ready and left the house, and the waiting coachman greeted us politely.
“Welcome, Mr. Bjorn Yandel, Miss Misha Kaltstein, and Miss Ainar Frenelin. It’s an honor to escort you to the royal palace, I’m Jack Haynes. Please don’t hesitate to pull the string if there’s anything you need.”
I feel like I’m someone important.
“Wow, so this is a private carriage…”
“Ooh! Candy! Free candy!!”
The carriage started moving as the wheels rolled on the road.
Towards the center of Lafdonia.
Where the King resides.
-------------------------------
Chapter 233: New Age (3)
A study filled with the faint scent of old books.
A young man was reporting to a middle-aged man wearing glasses, looking very nervous.
“Based on the final analysis, it’s presumed that Belvev Ruinjenes installed the magic circle and Liranne Viviane activated it.”
“So you’re saying they’re both in the city?”
“Yes. Considering that Noark’s protective barrier is functioning normally, it’s highly likely that they’re inside Lafdonia.”
“They’re masters of disguise.”
“They’re a nuisance. Then I’ll report the casualty statistics that were compiled this morning.”
The young man reported the total damage from the incident in a regretful voice.
However, the middle-aged man just listened without any reaction.
“Right, many died.”
70% of the explorers above the 4th floor had died.
The only survivors were the 1,600 or so explorers who were left behind as sacrificial pawns and the dissidents who didn’t enter the labyrinth from the beginning.
It was a huge loss, practically equivalent to a dimensional collapse.
“It’s for the best.”
Marquis Terserion, the Prime Minister of Lafdonia, chuckled as if brushing it off.
The young man tilted his head.
“Yes?”
“It’s nothing. I have things to think about, so you can leave now.”
“…Please rest, father.”
“Use my title within the palace.”
“Yes, Prime Minister.”
The young man bowed politely and left the study as the man waved his hand.
‘I should contact the Magic Tower soon.’
The man got up and walked towards the window.
He saw servants bustling about, preparing for today’s event.
Swaaaa.
A strong wind blew in as he opened the window wide.
The sunlight was warm, and the sky was clear without a single cloud.
“His Majesty will be pleased.”
It was a perfect day to start a new age.
_________________
Karnon, the Imperial City.
A special district where commoners couldn’t even enter without permission.
“Ooh, so that’s the royal palace!!”
A road leading to the royal palace appeared as we entered through the giant gate with the royal family’s emblem on it.
The ground was covered in flower petals.
Crowds of people were gathered along the road, watching the parade.
Of course, there were hardly any nobles.
Even though Karnon was called a city of nobles, 90% of the population consisted of servants who worked or lived here.
“Wow! It’s the heroes’ procession!”
“Scatter the flower petals!”
The servants, who were probably paid handsomely, lined the streets and greeted us enthusiastically.
After some time…
“We’ve arrived. Was there anything uncomfortable during your journey?”
…the carriage stopped in front of the outer wall of the royal palace.
It wasn’t just our carriage, but hundreds of other carriages as well.
“Then let’s get off.”
“Uh, wait! Let me catch my breath first, okay?”
Is she nervous now?
Well, this was her first time in the Imperial City.
“…Tell me when you’re ready.”
“Ugh, I think I’m ready.”
I saw familiar faces as soon as we got off the carriage.
The survivors who crossed the line of death with me during the recent disaster.
But we were far apart, so we just exchanged glances.
“It’s an honor to be escorting the heroes today, I’m Pert. Please come this way.”
We went through a simple identification process at the gate and then entered the royal palace, following the guide.
Its official name is the Palace of Glory.
It’s a palace used to welcome guests during banquets and royal events.
“Bjo, Bjorn…”
Ainar looked intimidated by the magnificent interior, as expected of a royal palace.
Geez, she’s always like this in strange situations.
“Straighten your shoulders. It’s weirder if you act like that when we’re guests.”
“…Ah, okay!”
“Please come this way.”
We followed the guide and arrived at a private reception room, about 20 square meters in size.
“It’s an honor to have you here, heroes.”
As soon as we entered, maids swarmed us, styling our hair and adjusting our clothes.
And the guide explained the basic etiquette and the order of events for today’s banquet.
After some time…
“Mr. Yandel!”
“Oh, I almost didn’t recognize you all dressed up.”
Raven and Avman, who arrived 10 minutes early, visited our reception room.
They were also dressed differently from usual.
Raven was wearing a traditional dress that dragged on the floor, and the bear-like man was wearing a neat suit.
“Haha, it’s a bit awkward, isn’t it?”
The bear-like man scratched his cheek with an awkward expression.
He said his wife helped him get dressed, but they made him change here.
I wonder how they even had a suit that fit him…
“The tailcoats for guests are all enchanted.”
According to the guide, they had thousands of enchanted clothes that could be worn by anyone, regardless of size.
‘Enchanted clothes.’
It seemed both rational and a ridiculous waste.
How often would guests without formal wear visit the royal palace?
“Then Raven, did you also change here?”
“No, I brought my own.”
“…I see.”
As expected of a mage from the upper class, she had a formal outfit.
“Wow, it’s so pretty. How much is something like that?”
“Uh… well, I actually received it as a gift from my master a while ago.”
“Ah, really? Anyway, you look like a real fairy in that outfit. Not that fairy race, but the fairies in fairy tales.”
“Are you talking about Fae?”
“Ah, yeah, those.”
“Hmm, you’re not making fun of my height, are you?”
“No, of course not! I’m serious, you’re really pretty.”
Misha and Raven started their girl talk.
Avman, Ainar, and I stepped back and had a separate conversation.
“Hey, Yandel, did you hear anything more about the reward? There’s a 4th-grade essence I’ve always wanted, so I’m wondering if it’s possible.”
“Well, I haven’t heard anything about that yet.”
“More importantly, Bjorn, I’m hungry, when are they going to feed us?”
“Eat some jerky if you can’t wait.”
“Oh, did you bring some?”
“Give me one too. I’m bored.”
We sat side by side, chewing on jerky, and then the guide who had left for a while returned.
“They said everyone is ready to enter. Let’s go.”
The hallway outside the reception room was crowded.
The guides lined everyone up in an orderly fashion.
For reference, we were at the very front, in the center, with Melter Pend on our left and Kyle on our right.
“Ah, you’re here?”
“That suit looks good on you.”
“Here, stand here.”
…Geez, how embarrassing.
“Why am I in the center?”
“Haha, wouldn’t it be stranger if someone else stood there? Everyone here followed you.”
Uh, hmm…
I didn’t have anything to say to that, but this man tends to overestimate me.
That’s when…
“It seems like it’s about to start. Look ahead.”
…Kyle spoke, looking straight ahead.
“The heroes are entering!”
Someone shouted, and the door opened wide.
Boooooooo!
A lively performance began with a loud trumpet sound.
“Let’s go.”
I followed Kyle’s urging and stepped through the open door, and countless explorers followed behind me.
Thud, thud.
The space beyond the door was a rectangular hall.
It was large enough to accommodate thousands of people, and a red carpet was laid out leading to the empty throne.
I continued walking along the carpet.
Although it was a pain to walk without crutches, I struggled to maintain my barbarian pride.
Thud, thud.
The knights drew their swords and saluted, and the priests showered us with blessings as I walked.
Ah, and the nobles clapped from afar.
It was an overwhelming reception for an explorer with a little over a year of experience.
I wasn’t particularly happy.
And the others probably felt the same way.
‘This is like a spectacle.’
Ah, is it a spectacle?
Thud.
The explorers behind me stopped in line as I stopped walking.
It was different from the orderliness of soldiers.
They hadn’t learned formations, so their lines weren’t straight, and their clothes were mismatched, creating a messy atmosphere.
But could it be that it was funny?
“Pfft.”
I heard a noble laughing from afar.
And the laughter spread.
And at the same time, I heard something being crushed.
Clench.
I subtly glanced back, and an explorer was clenching his fist.
It was a warrior who had cleared the path with me in the cave.
Geez, he was so reckless when he was smashing monsters’ heads.
‘He’s surprisingly timid.’
It was another side of warriors that I didn’t know about.
For some reason, I didn’t like it.
Maybe that’s why I couldn’t help but shout.
“Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!”
My shout echoed through the vast space.
And a chorus followed, although I didn’t intend it.
“Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!”
It was the warriors who were addicted to our battle cry, including the few barbarians, who shouted.
“These crazy bastards, even in the royal palace…”
Most of the explorers had dumbfounded expressions or sighed as if they couldn’t believe it.
But the nobles were different.
Did they think it was a planned performance?
The nobles, who were momentarily surprised and silent, started clapping and whistling.
‘These guys are also ridiculous.’
Although it was funny, the atmosphere had improved.
The magnificent royal palace, the gazes of the nobles, the awkward tailcoats, and so on. The explorers who were uncomfortable with this setting regained their composure.
‘Damn right, this is how shameless explorers should be. How else did you survive?’
Kyle chuckled next to me as I looked at them with satisfaction.
“I told you, didn’t I? Who else would stand here besides you?”
Well, he might be right.
Who else would do something like this besides a barbarian?
“Attention! Attention, please! His Excellency Ageny Rotten Terserion, the Prime Minister of Lafdonia, is entering!”
The Prime Minister appeared in the midst of the heated atmosphere.
___________________
He looked to be in his early fifties.
Gray hair and a kind face.
The Prime Minister, who reminded me of a principal, stood in front of the empty throne and started his speech.
First, a lighthearted joke.
“Haha, I apologize. I’m late. Please don’t be angry, heroes. It’s a beautiful day, isn’t it?”
The speech naturally flowed to the weather and then to the next topic.
It wasn’t anything grand.
He praised our efforts one by one and explained to the nobles why he had summoned us.
“These people achieved what the royal knights and even the famous clans couldn’t. If it weren’t for them, we wouldn’t even know what happened there.”
Returning alive with information about Noark.
That was our official contribution.
After all, they couldn’t openly say they were giving us carrots to appease the explorers.
“Therefore, I, Ageny Rotten Terserion, on behalf of His Majesty the King, who is currently ill, commend you for your service!”
The long speech ended, and the Prime Minister announced the rewards based on the explorers’ contributions.
First, all survivors would receive 10 million stones and permission to enter Karnon, the Imperial City, and there would be additional rewards depending on their achievements.
For reference, we were the first to be announced…
“Melter Pend, leader of the Nartel Clan, please step forward.”
…but Melter was the first to receive his reward.
“You made a great contribution to the victory in the Goblin Forest battle by defeating the Blue Wolf criminal, Blue Mane.”
The Prime Minister, as if he had already gathered information, mentioned his achievements specifically.
“I’ll grant you access to the Silver Treasury. You can choose one essence and one item.”
“Thank you.”
Melter Pend received a ticket to the treasure vault where 4th-grade essences and equipment of similar value were stored.
‘…Can I look forward to my turn?’
Actually, Melter’s contribution was the lowest among the three of us. In the first place, they were only able to defeat the wolf bastard because I knocked out the Corpse Collector.
‘Phew…’
Unfortunately, Kyle was next.
“Sir Kyle Pebrosk, the Iron Mage, please step forward.”
“It’s been a while, Prime Minister.”
“Please forgive me for visiting so late, I’ve been busy with state affairs.”
The Prime Minister listed three of Kyle’s contributions.
Using his wisdom to guide the expedition party to safety.
Using Mass Teleport to evade Verzak.
And buying time and inflicting damage against the Ruin Scholar in the Goblin Forest battle.
“You said you wanted permission to research forbidden magic? From this day forward, you’re a proud royal mage of Lafdonia.”
“You don’t know how happy I am to hear that, Prime Minister. Thank you.”
Kyle was promoted to royal mage.
He now had the opportunity to learn and master all kinds of magic.
“Bjorn, son of Yandel, warrior of the barbarian tribe, please step forward.”
It was finally my turn.
Could it be because my case was different from Melter and Kyle, who were already famous?
The Prime Minister stared at me intently and then listed my contributions one by one.
“Your contributions are as follows.”
“Stopping the internal conflict with your noble will and allowing more knights to return to their families.”
“Setting an example by fighting bravely at the most dangerous forefront.”
“Buying time from Verzak by acting as bait for the explorers to survive.”
“Making a decisive contribution to the victory by cornering the cursed spirit of another world, Abet Nekrapetto.”
It sounds like I didn’t do much.
That’s when…
“These words can’t express your hard work. But even so, on behalf of the royal family, I commend you for your service!”
“…….”
“I’ll grant you access to the Golden Treasury. You can choose one essence or item. And I’ll grant you a reward of 50 million stones. And!”
The Prime Minister continued.
“I’ll bestow upon you the title of Viscount.”
…Huh?
---------------------------------------
Chapter 234: New Age (4)
Viscount.
A title that’s just above ordinary knights.
“What the…”
“A Viscount?!”
The nobles were shocked by the Prime Minister’s bombshell declaration.
It was understandable.
“This is unprecedented! To grant a hereditary title to a barbarian!”
A Viscount could pass down their title.
Not forever, but to their son and grandson.
In a way, it could be considered even better than an honorary baron, whose title only lasted for their lifetime.
‘I never expected to get a title when I wasn’t even aiming for the noble route.’
Honestly, I’m a bit dumbfounded.
In the game, you could become a noble by clearing quests related to dukes or higher and accumulating achievement points.
It was a route with as many disadvantages as advantages.
Although you were a noble, you were practically a vassal of the duke, so there were restrictions on gameplay.
But what about the restrictions in this case?
‘…But it’s the same for commoners and nobles, you can’t refuse if the King orders you to do something, so it’s practically nonexistent, right?’
Hmm, it seems like that’s the case…
That’s when the Prime Minister shouted,
“Everyone, be quiet!”
“But…”
“It’s His Majesty’s order.”
“…….”
The commotion, which I didn’t think would subside easily, died down at the single mention of the King’s order.
That was the weight of the King’s name in this country.
“I’ll inform you of the date of the title bestowal ceremony later.”
Anyway, that was the end of my reward.
The Prime Minister didn’t even ask if I would accept the title. He probably didn’t even consider that possibility.
Well, I wasn’t planning to refuse anyway.
This wasn’t just a game.
In other words, becoming a noble meant I could enjoy all sorts of conveniences, and it would also increase my gameplay options.
“Portyan Miliant of the Nartel Clan, please step forward!”
The process of announcing rewards based on the other explorers’ achievements continued for a while after my turn ended.
My companions also stepped forward one by one, and they all received decent rewards, although not as much as me.
To summarize:
Misha, Ainar, and the bear-like man could choose between a 10 million stone reward and a 5th-grade essence or equipment of similar value.
And Raven, the mage, requested the Prime Minister and received the qualification to learn royal magic instead of the usual reward.
Erwen received the biggest reward among my companions, a 4th-grade essence or an item of similar value.
It was because she was recognized as the second most deserving person in the battle against the Corpse Collector, and it also included compensation for Daria’s death.
Although she wasn’t present, it wasn’t a problem since the rewards would be given later.
“Mr. Yandel, so Erwen is still at the sanctuary?”
“I heard the funeral ended a while ago, but she must still be feeling complicated.”
“I see…”
Raven, who asked about Erwen’s well-being, trailed off. I asked if she had something to say to her, but she didn’t answer.
After some time…
“It’s a wonderful day. Everyone, please enjoy this occasion with the heroes of our new age!”
…the long reward ceremony ended, and the banquet began.
__________________
The banquet was held in two separate locations since there were so many people.
The grand hall where the reward ceremony took place, and the outdoor garden, which was now filled with all sorts of delicacies.
Most of the explorers chose to enjoy the banquet in the outdoor garden.
Because of the atmosphere.
The indoor hall was quiet and solemn, with elegant music playing.
Most of the nobles chose to stay there, so the explorers probably felt uncomfortable.
“Mr. Yandel, what are you going to do?”
“Of course we’re going outside.”
We also chose the outdoor garden.
“We could expand our connections if we stayed here.”
Since my viscount title was already confirmed, I didn’t need to be here today if connections were my goal.
I didn’t want this to be that kind of occasion.
“Yandel! Yandel is here!”
“What? Why are you here when you’re becoming a noble?”
“Hahaha! Yandel wouldn’t do that!”
The explorers greeted me enthusiastically as I appeared, perhaps feeling a sense of distance because of my upcoming noble title.
Phew, I’m glad I came.
No matter how I think about it, my connections with these guys feel more precious than the nobles.
“Everyone is looking at you, how about saying something? I’ve heard enough of it inside, but your words will sound different to them.”
Kyle, who came with me, spoke from the side.
Right, he’s saying to give a toast or something.
I contemplated for a moment, wondering what to say…
‘Let’s just be a barbarian.’
…but my contemplation didn’t last long.
Was there even a need to think about it?
I’ve already heard enough fancy words of praise.
So…
“Everyone, you’ve worked hard!!”
…this would be enough today.
“Let’s eat, drink, and be merry!!”
It was a shout that ended in an instant.
The barbarians, who naturally didn’t like long speeches, responded with cheers.
“Behel—laaaaaaaaaa!!”
And it was the same for the explorers.
“I can’t believe I’m drinking in the royal palace!”
“What’s there to worry about when we have Yandel, who’s becoming a Viscount? Let’s enjoy ourselves!”
“Waaaaaaaaaa!!”
The explorers also started to enjoy the banquet, letting go of their discomfort with the royal palace.
For reference, that also applied to us.
“Wow, Bjorn! Try this! I don’t know what kind of meat it is, but the bones are crunchy and delicious!”
“Uh, you’re not supposed to eat the bones…”
“Huh? Why?”
“Never mind. It’s fine if it tastes good…”
The greasy food had a different flavor from Misha’s home cooking.
The smooth alcohol.
And the countless comrades I could talk to about our past experiences.
‘This feels like an after-party.’
A joyful time, befitting a banquet, continued.
Although the atmosphere darkened whenever someone mentioned a dead companion, we all had a brief moment of silence and then returned to our cheerful mood.
That’s when, as the sun started to set…
“You guys seem to be having fun.”
…Melter, who was enjoying the banquet with the nobles inside, came out.
“Was it fun inside?”
“There’s no way. I barely endured it.”
“You’re having a hard time too.”
I could understand Melter’s position, having to enjoy the banquet with the nobles inside.
After all, he was leading a clan.
He wouldn’t have wanted to miss the opportunity to build connections with the nobles. He might need their help someday.
“Here, take a bottle.”
“A bottle…?”
“Why bother with glasses?”
“Haha, I should have come out sooner. But where are your companions?”
“Everyone except for Avman went somewhere else, saying it was boring.”
“Really? I thought that barbarian girl would be different.”
“Ah, she’s a lightweight.”
To be precise, she wasn’t a lightweight, but she kept chugging from the bottle and passed out after a while.
“Yandel, what are you doing? The bottle is empty. Don’t tell me you’re drunk?”
“There’s no way.”
I continued drinking with the warriors around me since Melter was here.
It’s one of the advantages of Bjorn Yandel’s body.
He can hold his liquor.
“Ugh, the smell of alcohol…”
Misha approached me as I was drinking like crazy, something I hadn’t done since waking up in this body.
“Ah, Misha, did you have fun?”
“Yeah. They had a performance, it was fun. It would have been nice if you came too…”
“There will be other opportunities. Where’s Raven?”
“She’s drunk and talking about difficult things with the other mages.”
Talking about difficult things while drunk? As expected, mages are beings to be avoided.
“I’m going to take a walk.”
I excused myself from Melter and took a walk in the garden with Misha.
Although it wasn’t as rowdy as the warriors’ drinking party, everyone was enjoying themselves.
I saw nobles here and there.
“Oh my, an army of thousands of corpses? I can’t even imagine.”
“That’s right. It must have been terrifying. You’re amazing.”
Just like how I was a popular star at the Count’s banquet before, nobles were approaching the explorers and expressing their interest.
Well, not all nobles were like the titled nobles who were stuck-up. The young, non-titled nobles were practically no different from middle-class commoners.
‘Huh? But why isn’t anyone coming to us?’
It was strange, but I soon understood.
How could they possibly approach us when there were dozens of burly warriors shouting?
“Bjorn, should we sit down and rest for a bit?”
“That would be good…”
Although I wasn’t that drunk, I was tired from walking for a long time since I hadn’t fully recovered from the last battle.
“…Why are you sitting on the ground? Why not next to me?”
“It seems like it will break.”
Misha sat on the bench, and I just plopped down on the grass.
And we spent time in silence.
Could it be because I drank so much?
The noise from the banquet sounded like background music, and various thoughts crossed my mind.
“Yandel! You’re Bjorn Yandel, the one who’s becoming a Viscount, right?”
A few nobles recognized me and approached us as we were enjoying the peaceful silence.
Viscount Yandel…
Are they already treating me like a noble?
I politely sent them away since I didn’t want to be interrupted.
But I couldn’t do that to everyone.
“Haha, you’re here?”
It was Count Perdehilt, a titled noble.
It would be troublesome if we became enemies, as it could affect future events…
And he was Dwarkey’s half-brother.
“…Baron Martoan.”
“I actually tried to see you a few times, but you seemed to be having fun, so I didn’t approach.”
Geez, what an excuse.
He probably just couldn’t bring himself to come through the warriors.
“Thank you for your consideration.”
“Haha, you’re welcome. You’re the main character of this banquet, after all.”
After exchanging formal greetings, I chatted with Baron Martoan for a while.
It was a surprisingly beneficial conversation.
He said that there was usually a lot of bullying when a commoner became a noble, but I would be different.
“Why?”
“Because it’s a title bestowed by His Majesty. He’s personally watching over you, so who would dare to touch you? Everyone will be desperate to get close to you.”
The King…
I always feel a sense of unease whenever the King is mentioned.
The chieftain’s words also came to mind.
‘Anyway, if what he’s saying is true…’
I looked at the butler next to Baron Martoan and greeted him.
“It’s been a while, butler.”
The butler’s face turned pale.
Well, it’s understandable for him to be scared.
The barbarian who smashed his head and crunched his bones had now gained fame and power.
“I, I apologize for my rudeness back then…”
The butler trembled and apologized as I looked at him with a smirk.
I wasn’t particularly happy.
‘Tsk, this feels like I’m bullying a weakling.’
Even a punching bag needs to have some impact for it to be fun to hit. I stopped messing with the butler and continued talking to Baron Martoan.
And Dwarkey naturally came up in the conversation.
“By the way, where’s my brother?”
Baron Martoan, as if wanting to get close to me, used the term ‘my brother’, which he didn’t even use back then.
Misha and I both froze.
‘Damn it, what?’
Is he kidding?
“Where’s he…?”
The butler’s face turned even paler as I barely managed to control my expression and asked.
I could glean one piece of information from this.
It seemed like he knew the situation.
And two…
“Sir, like I said before, Liol Wobu Dwarkey…”
…the Baron also knew.
He just forgot after hearing it once.
“Ah, right. My memory isn’t what it used to be now that I’m old. Haha.”
The Baron laughed awkwardly.
I felt nauseous, even though I had just chugged several bottles of alcohol without any problems.
Is that why?
Clench.
When I came to my senses, Misha was holding my arm tightly with a worried expression. I patted the back of her hand to reassure her and then pulled my hand away.
I wasn’t the powerless person I used to be.
I had too many responsibilities now.
Therefore…
“Right, I understand, so don’t worry. People can have memory problems when they get old.”
“…Huh? Ah, well, I guess you could say that. Hahaha.”
I extended my hand and offered the Baron a handshake.
“I have somewhere to be, so I’ll be going now. It was nice meeting you.”
“Really? That’s a shame. See you later.”
Baron Martoan shook my hand, clicking his tongue in disappointment.
He asked one last question.
“Ah, but where are you going?”
I answered, dusting off my hand as if there was something on it,
“Ah, I suddenly feel like washing my hands.”
I have to wash off the dirt.
__________________
Baron Martoan wasn’t very perceptive.
“…Really? Anyway, I’ll call you later, so don’t refuse. You’ve become a noble now, so there are many things you need to learn.”
He let me go without any fuss.
Maybe the problem was me.
He probably couldn’t imagine a barbarian subtly mocking him like that.
‘It might be one of a barbarian’s few weaknesses.’
“You did well.”
Misha patted my head as if I was a good boy.
I got up and headed inside.
Although I could have just asked a passing mage to wash my hands…
…I also wanted to use the bathroom.
“Don’t you need me to come with you?”
“…Do you think I’m a child?”
I parted ways with Misha and went to the bathroom with the guide’s help. And as I was about to return to the banquet hall after using the bathroom…
…someone who recognized me called out.
“Oh, you’re here?”
It was Count Perdehilt, the host of the last banquet I attended. He said something strange when he gave me the winning prize, ‘No. 7777 Garpas’s Necklace’.
[I’ll call you separately when you’re more prepared.]
I hadn’t received a separate summons until today.
“You’re talking as if you were looking for me.”
“Because I was.”
“How about we go over there and have a drink? It won’t take long.”
“Alright.”
I readily followed him inside since he was someone with much greater power than Baron Martoan.
“Here.”
The Count poured me a drink as soon as we sat down at the table, and I downed it in one gulp.
“My companions are waiting, so can I hear your business first?”
“Haha, of course.”
Fortunately, the Count didn’t seem offended and got straight to the point.
“This is my youngest daughter, Arabella. You’ve met her before, right?”
This feels strange…
“How is she? Isn’t she pretty?”
As expected, the Count wrapped his arm around his daughter’s shoulder and pushed her towards me.
“Ah, I, I’m Arabella…”
The Count’s daughter, who seemed to be in her early teens, trembled as she looked at me and introduced herself.
Ha, I never thought I would experience something like this.
“How is she?”
My mind went blank, and I couldn’t answer, as it was my first time experiencing this.
But did he think I was contemplating?
“Ah, don’t worry too much if you have a girlfriend. You can just take her as a concubine.”
“…Concubine?”
“Ah, you didn’t know?”
The Count laughed and said at my mutter,
“It’s also a noble’s duty to have many descendants and contribute to the country. You can have up to three concubines besides your legal wife if you become a noble.”
Duty, my ass.
I suddenly felt like using the bathroom again.