"A vassal, huh…"
The unknown Rose Knight asked with a laugh that seemed more incredulous than amused.
"Baron, do you really think this makes any sense?"
Come to think of it, it was a question I had heard many times living as a barbarian.
And my answer hadn't changed one bit since then.
"Huh? What part doesn't make sense?"
I scratched my ear with my pinky, and the Rose Knight frowned.
"An amount reaching ten thousand—"
"Hmm, to be exact, it's 8,712."
"…What difference does that make? Even the most prominent noble houses in the city, neither in the past nor now, have had vassals numbering that much."
"Oh, really?"
I shouted with genuine delight.
"Then I'll be the first!"
I even muttered aloud, wondering if this could be inscribed separately on some 'stone of honor.'
But that woman, who looked like she wouldn't shed a single tear, thoroughly ignored my muttering.
Then…
"Baron Yandel, are you intending to raise a private army?"
The skilled swordsman asked sharply, piercing the air like a thrust into an opening.
This time, it was a sensitive question I couldn't just brush off nonchalantly.
If I answered flippantly like, 'A private army? Why not!' my intentions might be misunderstood and twisted.
At worst, it could be taken as plotting treason.
Therefore…
"Not at all. I have no intention of raising a private army. I swear on my name and honor as a warrior."
This was something I stated clearly and decisively above all else.
Of course, that woman didn't even acknowledge it.
"Instead of a vow, explain why you need that many vassals."
Tough as nails.
I clicked my tongue behind my back but answered the question nonetheless.
"Well… isn't it good to have many vassals? I also tend to like busy, bustling places…"
"You say you like bustling, so you plan to have 9,000 vassals?"
"It's 8,712, not 9,000."
I cut her off with a careless remark, then quickly added:
"And it's not that I just hired that many for the sake of numbers. I really need all of them. For example, Kaina Elmosh on this paper… oh! It says kitchen assistant!"
"Baron, do you truly expect us to believe that?"
…Well, I knew no one would.
I knew my excuse was unbelievable.
But so what?
"Believe it or not, why would that be your concern?"
"..."
"Honestly, I don't understand why you're suddenly acting like this. Yesterday you said you'd just follow the king's orders? They became my vassals and got proper entry rights. So why are you blocking them?"
When I brazenly pushed back like that, the Rose Knight couldn't come up with a rebuttal.
It was time to turn up the pressure.
So…
"Human woman, one thing."
"...?"
"If you're going to judge, then judge."
I lowered my voice and continued.
"If you want to speak, then speak."
Barbarian advice to behave like a proper tool.
The Rose Knight didn't show much expression to this but perhaps listened carefully.
"..."
"..."
In the awkward silence as even the knights before the checkpoint rolled their eyes and watched nervously, the woman who had kept quiet for a while finally parted her lips.
"Baron…"
"Baron?"
"You will regret today's choice."
Huh, what is she trying to say now?
Coincidentally, this too was a familiar refrain.
Whenever something went wrong, they'd say stuff like this, planning for the future.
"Oh, so you're not a knight but a fortune teller?"
When I teased her to the end, she glared at me indignantly and said to the knights,
"…Everyone, make way!"
Phew, at least I got past that hurdle.
District 4, part of the commercial city Commelby.
Originally a busy area full of shops and passersby, the sight inside the checkpoint was completely different.
All shops were closed, and not a single person passed by.
"Human woman, what exactly is going on here?"
"…District 4 has been temporarily closed for the safety of the citizens."
"What other districts have been closed?"
"Only District 4 has been closed."
It was a statement that made me question my ears for a moment.
"…What?"
The Rose Knight's words didn't add up.
District 3, adjoining Noark-occupied District 13, and District 5, adjoining District 7, were not closed…
'Only District 4, adjoining Viphron, was closed? For "safety reasons"?'
It was hard to accept, but even when I pressed for details, no proper answer came.
"Ask the Chancellor for the rest. As the Baron said, I'm not the one to judge."
"Chancellor? Are we going to see the Chancellor now?"
"Yes."
That ended the conversation abruptly with a repeated answer to 'ask in person.'
Afterward, upon arriving at District 4 plaza, I set up a shelter for Viphron residents and District 7 natives.
We needed some time to decide on treatment, so they were told to stay here until then.
"Hoo…"
"…I think this is the first time I've seen Freedom Plaza so empty."
Still, seeing the people, they didn't seem to mind the royal family's treatment.
They seemed to think it was natural.
"Baron, come here. The Chancellor is waiting."
"…I'll go. Emily, Versil. Take good care of things here."
After settling the plaza situation, I followed the Rose Knight to a high-end residence not far away.
And…
"Soon, if you wait, the Chancellor will contact you."
As expected, instead of the Chancellor, a communication crystal for video calls was set in the room.
Buzzing.
Once the Rose Knight left and I was alone, the crystal vibrated, and pressing the answer button revealed a familiar face.
[Long time no see, Baron Yandel.]
"Long time no see, Marquis Terserion."
[Before we start, please understand we can't meet in person due to the wartime situation. It's difficult to leave the post.]
Difficult? How long does it take from Karnohn to here?
A person who can even freely ride military magic circles.
I barely suppressed a scoff but spoke politely.
"I understand. And I'm not particularly upset, so don't worry."
[Thanks for saying that.]
"So, did the expedition team who went to the underground first floor all return safely?"
[They all safely returned and submitted reports on their exploration. Thanks to them, we also found out you were in District 7.]
"Hmmm… I see."
I'm not fond of long introductions, but since there was useful information, I kept listening.
"So, how did you know we were in Viphron?"
[We secretly sent agents to District 7. They heard the declaration to go to Viphron. Why was that? I heard they said the enemy would just let you go.]
It was one of # Nоvеlight # the expected questions, so I answered smoothly.
"How can I believe they'd just let us go? Besides, the talks suggested Noark is planning something suspicious using Viphron."
[Something suspicious? Did you find anything there?]
"I've investigated for days but unfortunately haven't found anything yet."
[I see… Anyway, since it's you, Baron, I'll inform the strategy office that Noark is plotting a secret scheme involving Viphron.]
"Oh, that's a relief."
After that, a short silence followed, and I cautiously asked what had been on my mind.
"What happened to Saintred?"
[Saintred is also safe. Thanks to his unique ability, he woke safely and could tell us what happened there.]
So the chief also came back alive.
Would have been better if he'd just died if there was a problem.
[Speaking of which, I heard you led the expedition after Saintred was incapacitated?]
"Ah, it just happened that way. We have to get everyone out alive."
"Well done. You did well. That was a great achievement."
"Oh, so can I get promoted now?"
[…That's not something we discuss yet. There will be merit reviews later, but for now, it's wartime.]
In other words, recognition for deeds would only come after the Noark invasion ended.
I found that reasonable and didn't say more.
'Anyway, the introduction was long enough…'
It was time to get to the main topic.
Just as I opened my mouth, the Chancellor brought it up first.
[By the way, I heard you accepted Viphron residents as your vassals…]
The old man who liked long intros seemed to be warming up.
[Are you planning to send them back?]
"Send them back? Did I do something illegal?"
[No, it's not that. But… from our point of view, it's not exactly welcome that they all come outside. You're a noble; you should understand.]
A noble, you say.
That implied I should discard personal feelings and act for the royal family's benefit.
"Well, I might have thought differently before, but now it's too late. They're already accepted as vassals, so what can I do?"
[Then you should just throw them out.]
"Sorry, but I'm the kind who can't say unpleasant things to others, so that's difficult."
[…You, are you?]
The Chancellor laughed incredulously at my reply.
I'm so delicate and introverted.
"Anyway, if it's not illegal, then that's settled. Stop talking about it. It's over."
[…Baron, I say this out of concern for you.]
Concern my ass.
If I were dead, he'd be the happiest person alive.
"Thanks for your concern, but I'll judge and handle things myself."
[…]
"So what's the plan for Viphron?"
From the Marquis's perspective, the disposition of the residents was the main point.
For me, this was the main issue.
What did the royal family plan for Viphron?
[We can't reveal military info to outsiders, but it's not a secret to you, Baron. You probably guessed it already.]
"If I did guess…"
[Right. We plan to wipe out Viphron entirely. The moment the Noark forces sneak in.]
Calm words, but infinitely cold and cruel.
They planned to obliterate Viphron whole, yet told us to send the residents home.
'…What do these people think of human lives?'
I thought this world was barbaric again, but from afar, I was probably the same kind of person.
Besides, this wasn't something for me to worry about now.
"Wait, you said you planned to lure Noark? Do you know what they're up to in Viphron?"
[We don't know. But by keeping up pressure, we expect them to flee there.]
The Marquis said he didn't know, but I wasn't going to believe that naïvely.
Neither the royal family nor Noark were behaving normally.
'Secrets they can't tell me…'
That only made me more curious.
[Anyway, that's why you were hurried out when we heard you were in Viphron.]
I honestly didn't get this part either.
If I were the Marquis, I would have just blown Viphron up with Noark.
Why bother rescuing me?
That question was partly answered by the following conversation.
[Oh, I almost forgot. You still have most of the items you got from exploring the basement, right?]
"Ah, I do."
[Do you?]
The Marquis tilted his head at my past tense but, thinking it a simple communication error, didn't ask more and continued.
[Leave the loot from the exploration here when you leave. Those are valuable royal assets. After merit reviews, some will come to you as needed.]
Hearing that, I lowered my head.
Makes sense—I never thought they rescued me for the loot from the basement…
[…Why are you bowing all of a sudden?]
Because if I met his gaze, I'd have trouble keeping my expression.
"…Sorry, Marquis."
-x-X-x-
As I finished apologizing and bowed my head deeply, the Marquis asked again.
[…Apologizing? What do you mean by that?]
"..."
[Speak up. I just can't understand.]
Thinking it would be faster to show rather than tell, I took out one by one the items obtained during the underground first floor exploration and neatly stacked them in the room.
And then…
[Why do you suddenly stop?]
"This is all."
[What do you mean? I heard there were over a hundred essences collected in test tubes.]
Ah, that.
"…That's right."
[…]
Only then did the Marquis fall silent, seemingly understanding why I had used the past tense earlier.
Still, he seemed curious about the reason.
[…How on earth did it come to this?]
"Marquis, now I see—you're the kind who values process over results?"
[Don't answer jokingly; I say this because you might get into trouble.]
Okay, enough teasing…
I gave a lengthy prepared explanation.
Though unlike a barbarian, I spoke in great detail, but to summarize in one sentence:
[…You needed to increase your strength to escape the city, so you distributed the essences to the District 7 explorers? Those precious essences…?]
"That's right."
[Good heavens… That's outrageous beyond words.]
"What's so outrageous? If we had failed to escape and been captured, they would have taken everything anyway."
Better that than falling into enemy hands, right?
As I muttered quietly, the Marquis on the other side of the screen held his forehead as if dizzy and spoke.
[This matter will need to be discussed again at the royal family meeting. It's true you rescued the District 7 explorers. We need to discuss whether the merits outweigh the faults.]
In other words, they needed time to investigate whether my claims were true.
Well, no matter the investigation, the testimonies would be the same.
[So please, until this matter is settled, don't cause any trouble.]
Anyway, that last comment didn't sound like aristocratic politeness but genuine concern…
"Understood. I'll stay quiet, so don't worry."
[…]
[Even though I've heard what I want, I don't know why I feel even more uneasy.]
"Well, Marquis, maybe that's because you're narrow-minded."
[…]
Ah, was this the time to empathize and comfort?
Not my specialty, so I quickly changed the subject.
"Oh! Then what should we do with the explorers and my vassals currently in the plaza? Are they just going to stay there?"
[They'll stay there for now, though it's inconvenient. The situation should calm within a few days.]
"A few days…"
He sounded like he believed this whole situation would be mostly resolved soon.
Ah, not that I didn't believe him.
Since the royal family's second in command said so, there must be good reason.
"Understood. Then we'll return and wait for news."
That ended the day's conversation, and after returning to the plaza to live with the people, time passed quickly.
"Did you all hear? The Noark forces have released most hostages under pressure from the royal army!"
One day.
"The Noark forces occupying Districts 7 and 13 are being pushed back by the royal army!"
Two days.
"District 13 has been reclaimed!"
Three days.
"The bastards were pushed from District 7 and fled to Viphron!"
"Waaah!"
Four days…
Although the urgent war situation was updated daily, no explosion occurred in Viphron.
But.
Drdrdrdrdrdrdr-!
On the fifth day.
"What is that?!"
We instinctively recognized it.
Whatever the royal family's plan was.
"The protective magic circle of Viphron has darkened…!"
Something was clearly going wrong.
The last stronghold, Lapdonia.
This giant city-state is covered with protective magic circles, a legacy of the Great Sage.
Though there had been doubts about whether the protective magic circle truly existed—especially since the Witch's Poison was a lie…
'But it really exists.'
Recently, Elwen's arrow proved the existence of the protective magic circle.
Invisible to the naked eye, it nonetheless firmly covered the city and cut it off from the outside world at the walls.
'At this point, I wonder if it's not a protective circle but a prison circle.'
Anyway.
That wasn't the important thing.
"What the hell is happening?"
"Does anyone know?"
"Is this because of the Witch's Poison?"
With tremors felt through the ground, the protective magic circle covering Viphron blackened.
It looked like aliens invaded and put a dome over a district to imprison it.
Of course, this could have been the royal family's original plan.
But…
"Yandel, the military's movements look strange."
Somehow, the atmosphere suggested otherwise.
"Wait a moment. I'll find out."
Feeling uneasy, I requested a private meeting with the Marquis but was rejected due to his busyness; I finally got through several days later.
"You look worn out."
The Marquis on the screen looked to have lost several kilograms, clearly busy.
"Things aren't going well, huh?"
[…I can't say much due to military secrets, but yes.]
"Come on, say at least a little. Suddenly Viphron ended up like this."
[…Once things settle, you'll hear. You're a noble of Lapdonia, after all. But I can say one thing: the Noark forces won't be coming out of there for a while.]
"That's a relief…"
Honestly, I was dying of curiosity, but no matter how much I pressed, it seemed they wouldn't tell me more.
"Then what about us? Do we stay here?"
[No need. District 4 is scheduled to normalize from tomorrow.]
"Does that mean we're free now?"
[Yes. District 7 is also open, so it's okay to go.]
"What about our vassals brought from Viphron? Any problems there?"
[Ah, that was discussed in depth… For now, no problem. But as long as you keep them as your vassals.]
"If they cease being vassals?"
[They'll be executed. It's no longer possible to send them back to Viphron.]
Execution if no longer vassals.
An extreme measure, but still surprisingly lenient for a conservative royal family.
Though they probably weren't without reason.
[Also, since they reside in the city, they'll have to pay taxes too.]
Huh… No wonder they accepted so easily.
"How much do they have to pay?"
[Same as regular citizens. Minors are exempt from taxes as usual.]
That was at least somewhat reassuring.
If not for the condition that followed.
[Oh, and Viphron residents can't hold any jobs requiring military training. Explorer jobs are included.]
In other words, they can't use a strategy where talented few explorers take responsibility for the many.
[As someone who's been Chancellor for a long time, can I give you a piece of advice?]
"Go ahead."
[I'll cut it short. Cut it as much as you can.]
"..."
[What value is there in useless people like them?]
Typical Chancellor advice.
This city judged those who didn't pay taxes as worthless.
From the Marquis's perspective in charge of the kingdom's finances, Viphron residents looked like trash.
But…
"Oh, thanks for the advice. I'll just let it go in one ear and out the other."
A barbarian's belief forbids caring about meddling like that.
[…]
After a few more words, the Marquis left, saying he was busy, ending today's conversation.
After returning to the plaza, I led the District 7 natives and Viphron residents living on the streets into the ruined District 7.
'…So we came back here again.'
They fled to Viphron, lived as refugees in District 4, and now returned to District 7.
'They really trashed the place.'
The state of District 7 was worse than when we were last there.
Buildings along the ruined main road were stained with blood and signs of battle.
Barracks apparently used by soldiers were left untouched and abandoned…
"Oh nooo! My shop…! My shop…!!!"
"Mother! Mother! Here! You're safe!"
Residents who fled during the liberation of District 7 could be seen here and there.
"Well, I'll be going now."
"I'm curious if my house is still intact…"
"Thank you for saving us. I will never forget this favor, Baron!"
After arriving at District 7, the explorers from District 7 naturally dispersed, leaving my comrades and 8,712 Viphron residents alone.
"…Yandel, where are you going now?"
"To the holy ground."
"Sure… Given your position, you should check that place too."
Amelia seemed to understand, but actually there was another reason to go to the holy ground.
She was right to be worried, but…
'First, I need to find somewhere to sleep tonight.'
If it didn't work out, I could sleep rough in District 7, but I judged that if I had to sleep rough, better to do it in the holy ground.
Hmm, that was the plan…
"Bjoooorn Niiiiiim!!!!"
As soon as we arrived at the holy ground, regrets about coming flooded in.
"Why did you come so late?!"
"…Long time no see, Shabin Emure. How have you been? Let me put this down first—."
"I'm not letting go! If I do, you'll disappear for months again!! No way! I'll never let go!!"
Shabin, our tribe's administrative head, seemed extremely stressed ✪ Nоvеlіgһt ✪ (Official version) from handling everything alone for months and being trapped in the holy ground during the Noark invasion.
But…
"Let's put our hands down and talk first."
"…Yes? Ah… okay…"
Amelia forced Shabin's hands down in a businesslike tone, and she seemed to regain composure.
If this was a boss fight, it was a kind of groggy state.
From experience, it was time to quickly apologize.
"Shabin, I'm sorry. I really didn't think I'd be so late coming back."
"…I understand your situation. That's why I was worried."
"Sorry for making you worry—."
Just as the mood was warming, Shabin suddenly interrupted.
"But who exactly are those people behind you?"
Shabin's gaze was fixed on the 8,712 residents awkwardly standing behind me.
It was quite awkward.
"Ah, uh, um…"
How should I put this?
Ah, let's change the subject first.
"So, how's the holy ground? It looks like it's changed a lot…"
"While you were gone, a quarter of the holy ground development plan was completed. Thanks to that, funds have become plentiful."
"Oh, that's a relief to hear."
No wonder the roads were paved and buildings had sprung up on the way here.
"So, who are those people?"
"They're Viphron residents. They became vassals of our Yandel family a few days ago."
"All of them…?"
Their looks said, 'What the hell is this nonsense?' and my voice unintentionally lowered.
"…There were reasons for it."
"..."
Perhaps sensing unease, Shabin suddenly grew silent and cautiously asked.
"So why did you bring them?"
"They had nowhere else to stay. I plan to have them stay in the holy ground for now."
"Wow, I see."
Shabin nodded absently and asked again.
"What about land for them to live on? Food? Clothes? Budget?"
Ah, that's the economic minister's job.
In other words, roughly speaking…
"The chief administrative officer will take care of that."
"Chief administrative officer?"
Shabin tilted her head, puzzled whether such a post even existed in the tribe.
Then…
Thud.
I patted her shoulder and said,
"Yes, chief administrative officer."
You just got promoted.
-x-X-x-
There is a superior, A.
A boss who assigns overwhelming workloads but hasn't shown their face in over half a year. Such a boss returned after a long absence with 8,712 tasks.
What might the subordinate's feelings be at that moment?
The answer can be read clearly in the expression of Shabin Emure standing before me.
Trembling hands.
Eyes fixed in a rage.
And…
'Murderous intent…?'
How could an ordinary person manifest such killing intent?
I have no idea, it's utterly baffling…
"I… I'm going to quit—"
Before she could finish that sentence, I hastily cut her off.
"Shabin! Calm down for a moment! Without you, our tribe would collapse!"
"If one person leaving means collapse, wouldn't it be better to collapse early?"
Uh…
Not exactly wrong, but…
"W-Why say that between us? I've treated you well so far—"
"So you mean I haven't been treated well?"
"No, not that…"
The 'family-like culture' is typical in small to mid-sized companies.
But I quickly discarded trying to persuade with loyalty.
I know better than anyone how to solve labor shortages in such companies.
To hold back those tired of a 'family culture' and planning to leave, moral appeals won't work.
"Double it."
"Double?"
"Yes, double the salary you've been receiving!"
At the shocking news of a salary increase, a slight crack appeared in Shabin Emure's cold expression.
"…That won't change my mind—!"
Here came the combo.
"I'm not just talking about from now on!"
"…?"
"I'll pay you double even for the time you spent struggling alone in the holy ground while I was gone!"
"…!!!"
Even an employee who'd lost willpower would open their eyes wide at such a performance bonus promise.
"…"
She didn't answer immediately, seeming embarrassed, but her face showed complete disarmament.
So I stopped pestering and quietly gave her time, and slowly she spoke.
"…I'll do it."
A tiny voice like an ant crawling.
"What did you say?"
"…I accept! The position of Chief Administrative Officer!"
Shabin then shouted loudly like someone who had made up her mind, then blushed shyly.
And added an excuse.
"W-Well… I'm also at the age to prepare for marriage now."
Completely unexpected reason.
"Uh…"
Not just an age to prepare—quite late, in fact?
I thought she'd be almost forty in a few years…
In modern society, a late first marriage might be normal, but in this social era, it's definitely late—
"Hmm."
At that, Amelia nodded as if agreeing.
"At that age, it's about time to think about it."
…Good thing I said nothing.
Chief Administrative Officer, Shabin Emure.
Today, she truly earned the highest authority in administration and clerical affairs.
"I have land I planned to sell next year. It might be a bit cramped, but it can accommodate these people."
At the moment she had decided to quit, Shabin seemed to have already prepared to house 8,712 refugees.
"The roof is an issue… but I have materials ready to quickly build a temporary cover."
"Quickly? No matter what, it's a lot of people. Can you really manage?"
"Of course. Bjorn, you've been away a long time, so you don't know… Barbarians are born workers. They might be better at labor than fighting."
"…What?"
Though it sounded like pressing a button as the barbarian chief, I had to accept the results.
Like warriors who prove they're worth a hundred men.
"Behel—laaaaaa!!"
Warriors lifted giant logs with a shout and carried them alone.
"Make sure the center pillar is well secured! Like our muscles!!"
Building homes in the holy ground had become trendy, so they even had building skills.
Not quite on par with dwarves, but…
"Hey! That's crooked!"
"Too much trouble—just set it up straight!"
"Good!"
Maybe it's a limit of their nature.
The dwarves' meticulous craftsmanship in metallurgy and architecture is unrivaled.
But…
"Fast, right?"
"I see…"
All the barbarians rushed the work; calling their speed 'crazy' wasn't enough.
At this rate, all the temporary shelters for refugees would be completed in a few days.
'Though if built hastily, they'd likely collapse in a year…'
Still, I realized one fact.
'Barbarians are cost-effective…!'
No, not just good—this is insane.
Very, very cheap labor.
And yet, physically able to do the work of several men alone.
And above all…
'No complaints.'
Even exploited cheaply, they just accept it positively.
I had no reason to take offense at Shabin's words about them being natural workers.
If anything, her praise was even insufficient.
I can say without doubt, barbarian warriors are the strongest laborers of this era—.
"Yandel."
At that moment, when I was marveling at this new possibility, someone spoke behind me.
A familiar voice.
"…Rotmiller?"
"Long time no see. I wanted to visit earlier but you looked busy."
"Why are you in the holy ground?"
I asked out of genuine curiosity, but Rotmiller looked at me as if he'd heard something strange and answered.
"Yandel, wasn't it you who asked me to teach exploration techniques to the young warriors here?"
"Ah…"
That's right.
I really…
"Sorry. I've been too busy recently and forgot for a while."
"No need to apologize, I understand. You've had your share of big troubles recently, haven't you?"
"I appreciate that, but anyway… Have you been staying here since then?"
"Unless I have business in the city, yes. Teaching the young warriors suits me and fits my nature."
"Oh, really?"
"Not a joke. When they come back alive from the labyrinth and give me stones as thanks for my teachings, my heart fills with joy…"
Suddenly Rotmiller trailed off and cleared his ~Nоvеl𝕚ght~ throat awkwardly.
"Ahem! Anyway, I'm living a pretty decent life, so don't worry."
"Is that so…?"
"Oh, and recently I've had some time to help with administration after work."
"Administration…?"
"Emure struggles a lot. It's hard to just watch a young friend struggle…"
"Huh? Shabin Emure is… young…?"
"Didn't you know? She's two years younger than me. Not that age matters, but she's accomplished much more…."
Rotmiller chuckled bitterly.
That made a lightning bolt strike my head.
'…Could this be related to Shabin's marriage preparation?'
I thought so but didn't do anything tactless like ask about their relationship.
They'll handle it themselves—they're not kids.
"Oh, right, Yandel… Do you know what's happening in Viphron? Everyone's nervous but not showing it."
"I'll tell you when I know. I have no information at the moment."
"I see…"
After about 30 minutes of chatting with Rotmiller, Shabin Emure came looking for me.
"Bjorn…! Oh? Rotmiller is here too?"
"Good to see you, Emure. He finished the survey I asked yesterday and stopped by on his way to chat with Yandel."
"Oh, really? The survey's already done?"
"No reason to delay. I know you're busy, Emure."
"Thank you always, Rotmiller…"
Shabin covered her mouth, smiling like a lady.
'Hmph, something's definitely going on here.'
My warrior instincts said so, but since it wasn't my business, I changed the subject.
"Shabin, why did you come find me?"
"Oh, my mind's all over. Three letters arrived this morning. Three."
"Three?"
I took the letters she handed me and checked; each had a different sender.
"One's from the royal family, one from Melbes, and one from…"
No idea.
What could this be?
While pondering, knowledgeable Shabin added an explanation.
"The seal means it's an official letter from the races. Judging by timing, likely an invitation to the Racial Conference."
"Racial Conference…?"
Oh, right, there was such an event.
Representatives of six races gather for a conference.
I should have gone long ago but was trapped underground for so long, missing it.
"Did the conference happen while I was gone?"
"No. I believe it didn't happen. The tradition is that everyone must attend to hold it."
"…I see."
My question answered, I opened and read the other letters one by one.
Coincidentally, all contained official matters. Briefly:
Notice granting permission to attend the royal meeting.
Invitation to Melbes's regular gathering.
Consent form for the Racial Conference.
Is it because I'm both tribe chief and baron?
Receiving such letters makes me feel like a high-ranking politician.
…Not exactly wrong.
"Wow…"
Shabin, after checking the senders and contents, exclaimed in admiration and muttered oddly to me.
"Truly an impressive person to receive these…"
It sounded like praise but also a jab.
"What did you just say?"
"Nothing. Just amazed someone receiving these letters is right here."
"…Suddenly shy."
Feeling awkward, I focused again on the letters.
"So, what do you plan to do?"
"Do? You mean…?"
"You got three invitation-like letters. Will you attend all?"
"Probably. They're all official matters."
"Then where will you start?"
Ah, that unfortunately isn't mine to decide.
"Let's see, the earliest is…"
I picked up one letter.
"This one is the earliest."
An invitation to the Multiracial Nobles' Alliance, Melbes's regular gathering.
Having returned to the city after a long time, there's so much to do.
But the most pressing issue among them is this.
Not originally planned as a quest, but…
[Make money using the refugees living in the barbarian holy ground.]
All the refugees became my vassals.
Under royal law, vassals of noble families cannot hold side jobs.
Well, secretly they might, but…
I have to be careful not to give the royal family a reason to accuse me while employing all 8,712 for side jobs.
'If we're to pay taxes next year, we need to generate profit somehow…'
This is the biggest problem.
If I were a great noble with businesses, I could provide jobs to them there, but I'm not.
'What to do?'
Surprisingly, a clue came from attending the Melbes regular gathering just to report survival.
"Ah, the next agenda is about bidding on the reconstruction of Districts 7 and 13. As you know, the royal family announced they will select three noble companies to carry out the rebuilding."
"..."
"Since huge profits are involved, many noble families will participate, and Melbes plans to select a family to support behind the scenes."
"..."
"To that end, we plan to participate in the bidding with the Count Goldbeard family, owners of several construction companies, and if there are no objections, we will hold a vote—."
I uncrossed my arms, which I'd folded to nap, and stood.
"I object!"
Our family must win the contract.
-x-X-x-
As if waiting for this moment, I suddenly stood up and raised my objection, drawing the attention of all the clan heads attending the gathering.
"An objection… you say…?"
Mariblack, the host and provider of today's venue, looked flustered and trailed off nervously.
Of course—at first, I came just to report survival and was bombarded with questions and attention, then answered all casually and spent most time dozing off in a corner.
Suddenly acting like this must have been confusing.
"Why? You said to raise objections, so I did. Is that a problem?"
"No… not at all. Melbes respects the voices of all families."
"Then good!"
Having gotten the host's permission, I spoke boldly.
"The Goldbeard Count family is not the right choice for this reconstruction contract!"
"Excuse me…?"
Mariblack and all the other heads reacted as if hearing nonsense.
Well, understandably so.
The Goldbeard Count is only one of the thirty-two count families, and also functions as vice head of Melbes.
That alone made them more than qualified to represent Melbes, and they own several construction companies, so I agreed they were a suitable candidate.
But…
"Um… Then Marquis Yandel, are you against participating in the contract?"
"No! Of course we will participate! It's a chance to make a fortune—why watch with your fingers crossed?"
"Then why oppose this agenda…?"
"The reason's simple! Goldbeard is fine, but I think there's a better candidate!"
"A better candidate… who would that be?"
Mariblack asked genuinely puzzled.
I shamelessly pointed my thumb at myself.
"Why, it's our own Marquis Yandel family!"
"..."
"..."
What? Why the silence?
Shouldn't someone now ask to hear the reason behind such confidence?
I had no choice but to promote myself alone.
Admittedly, it looked like a kid running for class president, shouting eagerly.
"If the Yandel family participates in construction, all the barbarian warriors will join. You may not know yet, but barbarians are born better workers than dwarves—"
Trying hard to appeal, someone suddenly snorted and cut off my flow.
"Pfft."
Looking closely, it was a dwarf fiddling with his beard while hanging on his chair.
The Goldbeard Count—the competitor for this contract.
"…Why are you laughing?"
"Oh, sorry. I don't mean to disrespect my barbarians… it's just a little amusing."
"Then what's so amusing?"
I asked coldly.
The Goldbeard Count looked momentarily flustered but soon chuckled and looked at me manfully.
"Even outside construction, there's no way barbarians are better than us dwarves."
Haha…
What a damn racist.
My head almost went blank, but knowing that getting angry meant losing, I kept calm and spoke.
"Huh? You say they aren't better? Just look at their height. Dwarves can never compete with barbarians physically."
Short stature was the dwarves' sore spot.
They seemed to rationalize their inferiority with other skills, but…
That very rationalization showed they knew their weakness.
"…Ha ha, if size were everything, how would there still be only one barbarian noble like you?"
He laughed casually, but it was obvious his pride was seriously scratched.
So it was time to press the weakness a bit more.
"Oh, isn't it curious? After all this time living well and eating well, why haven't you grown taller yet?"
"…Heh heh."
"Oh, Count, don't you get confused sometimes between goblins and dwarves? They're so similar in height… Oh wait, maybe you haven't been to the labyrinth to see just how alike you and goblins are?"
"..."
"Uh… Marquis Yandel? P-Please calm down a bit—"
"Calm down? I think the Count over there should calm down. His beard's trembling over there."
"..."
"But I suddenly wonder—why do all dwarves grow beards? Growing a beard doesn't make you taller—"
The Count, who'd been silently trembling his beard, slammed the table and stood up.
"I will not tolerate any more disrespect!"
Though he stood, his eye level hardly changed.
'Tsk, this is why I say all chairs should be confiscated from dwarves.'
I clicked my tongue inwardly but calmly asked the dwarf who overturned the table.
"What if you don't tolerate it?"
"..."
"What will you do then? Challenge me to a duel?"
Of course, this question is a cheat code.
His only possible answer was to evade with a sneer.
"…Barbaric."
Just mocking my low level.
Still, it was a bit funny.
"Why? Isn't that why you brought me here? To crash into other nobles who look down on me?"
"I opposed it back then."
"Huh? But wasn't it unanimous when we voted?"
"That was already agreed upon earlier—"
"Oh, so you can't even voice your opinion if everyone else agrees?"
"..."
"Well, if you're short, maybe your courage is short too—"
I was about to make one more sarcastic remark when someone shouted like an angry bull.
"Marquis Yandel—!!"
This time, it was a tough opponent even for me.
He was the current head of Melbes, an elderly gentleman named Takuo Wellbeart.
A black bear race noble, he holds the title of count.
Though we rarely spoke one-on-one, every time we met he smiled kindly and said pleasant things, so I had a good impression.
I also heard from Baron Rabbit that he's very respected within Melbes.
And no one has ever seen him angry until now…
'He's usually quiet and smiling, but when he gets mad, it's serious.'
When the head, who usually sat quietly like a figurehead, shouted, both I and the Goldbeard Count flinched.
Then he scolded us like a passionate youth.
"Never forget why we've gathered! We must always unite as one to survive!"
Wow, what a voice.
Well, he's black bear race, so his size isn't much different from mine either.
"Differences in opinion? Fine! But I won't tolerate us fighting amongst ourselves! Understand?"
"…I got a little excited. Sorry, Head."
"How can Marquis Yandel have no answer!?"
"…I'll restrain myself."
As I took a step back, the head sat back down calmly as if never having been angry.
So…
"Can I continue what I was saying earlier?"
I spoke with a sly smile.
"You mean what you were saying earlier…"
"Your speech was interrupted by an interrupter. You were explaining why Marquis Yandel should be chosen."
"Oh, yes… Please continue."
I smoothly continued as if I had even prepared a presentation.
Why barbarians are the best laborers.
I talked about cost efficiency and manpower and said we could use the 8,712 Viphron residents as labor.
"Hmm… Barbarian warriors really build houses that well?"
"Of course, not «N.o.v.e.l.i.g.h.t» as delicate or sturdy as dwarves, but fast."
At this point, I tried humility and glanced at the Goldbeard Count, who coughed apologetically.
He didn't seem to dislike the compliment…
"Ahem, our work speed isn't slow either."
His comment showed how competitive he was.
"Anyway, this reconstruction is about quickly restoring a wide area. The royal family would want that too."
"That's true."
"That's why I say I'm the best fit for this contract."
"Certainly… you have a point…"
After the briefing, reactions were ambiguous.
Some seemed fairly persuaded, others suspicious.
Someone even expressed doubt.
"But so far it's just Marquis Yandel's word. That they're so skilled at construction…"
"Then why not have a contest? Call dwarves and barbarians, have them build, and judge the results. If I lose, I'll accept cleanly."
This rough-and-ready challenge, more suited to a tavern than a noble assembly, flustered the host as he looked at the Goldbeard Count.
As if asking his opinion.
But, judging by his earlier behavior and stature, the Count was clearly immature.
"Good! Let's fight!"
The duel was set.
After the duelists agreed, everyone naturally looked to the head sitting in the corner.
How would the head react to us actually dueling?
Everyone worried, but surprisingly, his reaction was cheerful.
"Hahaha! Yes, this is better! I'll arrange a venue soon and notify you. But both winner and loser must promise to accept the result cleanly."
"I swear on my honor as a warrior."
"I also swear on my hammer."
Okay, that settled the matter…
Since the contract discussion took a long time, Mariblack resumed the meeting.
"Then that concludes the contract discussion. Next agenda."
To them, the contract discussion wasn't all that important.
After all, it was just about making money.
For new families like ours, it's a big deal.
These families had held noble status for hundreds or even thousands of years and already had enough wealth.
And in that sense…
"This next agenda is a free discussion on the Noark invasion and the occupation of Viphron."
As the new topic arose, all the heads stiffened and sat up.
Their attitude was much more serious than the previous topic.
"This discussion is for sharing information and analyzing the unknown situation, so everyone is free to speak."
As the meeting began, those who had stayed silent started speaking up with zeal.
"There's evidence that the royal family knew in advance about the Noark invasion. This information came from a very reliable source…"
"I must stress this is unconfirmed. There are reports Noark tampered with the protective magic circle in Viphron."
"Hoo… how could such ruffians touch the legacy of the Great Sage…"
The discussion dragged on without clear resolution, and of course, many questions were directed at me.
"Marquis Yandel, do you know anything?"
"Yes! You were closest when it happened, weren't you?"
"You're the only one who's been to District 7 and Viphron."
They seemed to expect answers, but sadly, I knew little.
Noark and the royal family acted suspiciously.
But I had no solid proof to bring up here.
"I don't really know."
I honestly said I didn't know, disappointing some.
Yet, they seemed somewhat convinced.
"Hmm… I see…"
"Well… no way the Marquis would know everything."
"This topic will surely come up in the royal meeting. We can only wait for their information."
"But we'll only hear trivial details. The really important info won't reach us."
"In the end, they'll monopolize all the gains from this incident."
For some reason, the mood suddenly darkened and everyone looked bitter.
I tilted my head and said,
"Uh… I might be able to tell you something in a few days…"
The clan heads looked puzzled.
"…Huh? What do you mean, Marquis Yandel?"
"Exactly what I said."
"Haha, exactly what you said? You speak as if you've been granted attendance rights to the royal meeting?"
"Well, I have."
It wasn't really a secret, so I answered plainly.
But maybe this was something they couldn't ignore.
"..."
"..."
After a brief silence.
"What?!"
"Marquis! Is that true?"
"Good heavens! Someone from Melbes has been granted the right to attend the royal meeting!"
Suddenly it became chaotic.
"Isn't this the first time in almost 600 years?"
How have these people missed so much in hundreds of years?
Honestly, it's a bit ridiculous…
"Marquis! Marquis! Tell us! How did you get the permission?"
"The underground first floor exploration?"
"No, maybe because of rescuing the explorers in District 7?"
My warrior instincts told me so.
"Marquis! Say something—"
"My throat."
"…Huh?"
"I suddenly got thirsty. Got anything cool?"
From now on, I'm in charge.
-x-X-x-
Royal Meeting.
In this meeting, attended by the city's top nobles and military officers equivalent to generals in the modern era, policies guiding the kingdom are established.
It is, in effect, the core of noble power.
Of course, gaining entry is incredibly difficult.
That's why the reason Countess Ragna Peprock once drew so much attention in the noble circles was precisely this.
No noble house without solid backing had ever managed to secure a seat in the royal meeting within such a short time.
Well, ultimately there was a prime minister pulling strings behind the scenes.
Anyway.
"I never thought Melves would have not a single participant in the royal meeting."
Honestly, given that Melves consists of 32 noble houses, I assumed at least one seat would be held by them, but apparently not.
Perhaps this is also an implicit form of discrimination against demi-humans.
Ah, but for me, that was a good thing.
"...."
"...."
At my remark about being thirsty, the room quieted.
Everyone was unsure how to respond, when a noble in the corner spoke up.
"Could someone send out to fetch a cup of tea? Make sure it's cold with plenty of ice."
His words and actions admitted his subordinate status.
That settled the situation clearly.
After all, the one addressed was the chairman.
"Ah? Yes… Chairman."
A baron beside the chairman stepped outside to give new orders to the servants and returned.
And then…
"Place it over there."
The servants were evidently rushed so much that in the blink of an eye, a cup of iced tea was placed before me.
It was iced tea of this era.
Quite different from the sweet ones I used to drink in PC cafés.
"Not bad."
I took a big sip, enjoying the aroma and the chill, when the chairman addressed me directly.
"Well then, shall we hear what you have to say?"
"Um… I'm not sure what I should say first all of a sudden."
"Then start with this. Baron, is it true that you have gained the right to attend the royal meeting?"
"It is true. I was resting at the holy land, when recently a letter like this flew in."
Taking advantage of the moment, I pulled out the stored letter and showed it to everyone; their expressions stirred once more.
Of course, none thought I was bluffing…
"Truly…"
"The royal seal is stamped on it."
"Judging by the seat… it's still a minor one for now."
Still, seeing proof with one's own eyes inevitably changes the feeling.
"So, my question is, is this the end of it?"
I rephrased the prompt in a barbarian manner, urging a quick question, and after some hesitation, the chairman carefully spoke.
"Perhaps… Baron, have you pledged allegiance to the royal family?"
"A strange question. What's the difference whether we do or not? We are all subjects of the royal family."
That was not what I truly thought.
But if asked like that, I had no other answer.
Noticing his mistake, the chairman quickly corrected the question.
"…Then I ask again. I know this is a rude question, but…"
"Go ahead, it's fine."
"After returning to the city this time, did you meet separately with the royal family and receive any promises?"
Even an oblivious barbarian could tell what the chairman worried about.
He feared a talent drain.
He was anxious I might abandon Melves and become a loyal subordinate of the royal mainstream.
I didn't expect such concern to be voiced openly in front of everyone.
"…Why did you think that?"
"Even after participating in today's meeting, when you said you wanted the contract payment and to hear information about the underground first floor, you kept postponing it."
Ah, that…
'From their point of view, it must have looked like that.'
I have no plans to abandon Melves or find a new nest.
I actually like this group's nature.
The fact that it is a gathering of often discriminated demi-human nobles is quite advantageous for me.
Still, I kept silent about exploring the underground first floor because I wanted to keep options open for potential deals with the royal family later.
"Since there seems to be some misunderstanding, I'll say it clearly here. I have made no promises with the royal family."
"Then the royal meeting…?"
"I don't know. It just came without any prior notice."
That was true.
Before the letter arrived, I had no separate contact from the marquis or anyone else.
And did they believe me?
"I see…"
"Has your curiosity been satisfied?"
"Yes. I was worried at first, but now it seems the royal family simply acknowledges you."
"Acknowledges what?"
"That Baron is already the spine of the city's political situation."
The chairman's eyes burning as he looked at me were not adequately described as just 'hot.'
There was a passion I had never seen before.
A will not to let me go.
'A bit overwhelming…'
Objectively speaking, it was a very positive situation.
Thirty-one other houses under Melves supporting me strongly behind the scenes.
That was the ultimate goal achievable within Melves—
"I see."
But at that moment, the chairman's fiery gaze suddenly cooled down.
"That concludes the questions here. Baron Mariblack, please continue the discussion."
"Yes? Ah, yes… understood."
After that, the chairman handed over control to the moderator, and everyone exchanged opinions timidly while watching me and the chairman carefully.
Still, the chairman did not direct any words or glances toward me for the rest of the assembly.
'…What's this? Is he playing hard to get?'
Having briefly felt that intense gaze, I was somewhat uneasy.
But it didn't take long to realize the chairman was consciously restraining his feelings.
"Then, I thank all the esteemed family heads who graced this meeting with their presence, and hereby conclude this assembly…"
The meeting was completely over, and I was about to stand when—
"Baron, could you stay a moment?"
"...?"
"A compliment to the Mariblack family's tea is well deserved."
A noble's way of politely suggesting a private talk.
"Well, alright then."
I agreed and waited as the nobles attending the assembly discreetly skipped farewells and left.
And then…
"We will bring tea again as soon as it is ready. Please make yourselves comfortable."
The moment the marquis hosting today's meeting left the hall, a private room was arranged.
"Baron Yandel."
The chairman's gaze returned to its usual self.
Not the look of an old man, but one filled with fierce desire.
Yet, despite revealing such feelings openly, his voice remained calm.
"Baron Yandel, what do you think about Melves?"
Hmm, the start was probing.
"I just think it's a good place. The people are decent."
"Even after the conflict with Count Goldbeard?"
"How can people meet without some clashes? That's just how things go. I don't dislike the count just because of that."
"Then that is truly fortunate."
After probing from the chairman's side, it was my turn to test the waters.
"Chairman, what about you?"
"...?"
"I meant what you think about Melves."
The chairman looked as if surprised by the unexpected question.
"Heh, what I think about Melves…"
He seemed to consider how to answer, then gave such a frank reply that even the barbarian listening was taken aback.
"I think it's a ragtag bunch."
"...What?"
An unthinkably blunt phrase to come from the chairman of Melves.
"Did you expect the usual positive talk like, 'We can do it, we're strong if united'?"
"No, but I didn't expect such honesty."
"Actually, you're the first to hear my true thoughts. I can neither say this to anyone nor should I."
For the first time, a shadow crossed the chairman's usually cheerful face.
Apparently, the stress was greater than he let on.
"So, what exactly do you mean by 'ragtag bunch'?"
"Just as it sounds. After thousands of years, demi-human noble houses have not increased, while the orthodox houses grow stronger. We banded together because there was nowhere else to go, but we are not truly united."
The chairman quickly poured out suppressed emotions and words like a confession.
"Do you know what our biggest difference from other factions is? We have no central rallying point."
"If that's the case, the one you are now—"
"Do you really think so?"
Hmm, well…
He is respected and all, but if this old man tried to present a vision and lead forward, I doubt all 31 houses would follow it like their own business.
"...."
Remaining silent, the chairman chuckled softly.
"No matter how much the houses grow closer and stronger, they will remain a ragtag bunch."
"Because of the lack of a central rallying point you mentioned earlier?"
"Exactly."
No matter how many kernels of ◆ Nоvеlіgһt ◆ (Only on Nоvеlіgһt) corn there are, without heat, they can never pop.
I was starting to understand what the chairman wanted to say.
"Actually, Melves is probably too small a nest to hold Baron Yandel."
"…Well, I think you're the only one who thinks that."
"Heh, everyone knows it secretly. They just haven't acknowledged it out of selfishness."
"Even so, I don't yet own a family estate."
"But you have more retainers than anyone else in this city. From what I've seen, Baron Yandel is not a bird looking for a nest. You are a bird that builds nests."
The chairman continued to praise me without stopping.
"Baron Yandel is a tribal chief of one race and a baron by title. Also one of the city's most famous explorers, rumored to be skilled enough to rival the strongest in this world."
Uh… nothing he said was untrue…
"But you seem to underestimate yourself too much. Without your title, who among the 31 houses would have what you have?"
"…Enough gilding; say what you want to say."
"I know it's funny to say this to a baron who joined Melves recently. But if you miss this chance, you'll spend another thousand years waiting meaninglessly."
Then, the chairman's eyes burned with passion as he looked at me and continued.
"Baron, become the central rallying point of Melves."
It was sooner than I expected, but it was my ultimate goal.
Better to be the head of the serpent growing into a dragon's tail.
That was why I ignored other offers and settled in Melves from the start.
But first, I had to ask this.
"So, chairman, what is your wish? What do you want to do by growing Melves?"
A crucial question to ask when dealing with someone.
The chairman laughed heartily at my question, then without hesitation answered.
"My wish is that one day I can look at those insolent human-born nobles and say, if you are a weak human, behave like one."
"...."
"Don't mess around."
This old man was more extreme than I thought.
The chairman grandfather, openly sharing his radical and extreme nature, offered me several proposals.
"If you accept my offer, Melves and our Welbait marquisate will fully support and back Baron Yandel."
"I want specifics rather than just full support."
"Of course, you will be entrusted with this contract, and we will assist you in purchasing a family estate and building a mansion."
"And?"
"When it comes to voting, all 31 houses will cast their votes where Baron Yandel directs, and if anything obstructs your plans, all will unite to remove those obstacles."
Oh, that's quite reassuring—
"However, there is one condition."
Ah, no wonder they were going all in.
I tried to hide my disappointment and asked about the condition.
"And… what is that condition? Tell me."
"Whoever the partner may be…"
The next words made my head go blank for a moment.
"Marry quickly and produce heirs."
…That condition was unexpected.
-x-X-x-
As soon as I heard the condition—"Get married and produce heirs"—I couldn't help but lose my composure for a moment, but thinking it over, it was a condition that the chairman grandfather could reasonably bring up.
"What Baron Yandel has achieved over these years is something no hero could match. That, no one can deny. But—"
The chairman grandfather paused and snapped his fingers.
"That could vanish at any moment."
The Yandel family still has no heir.
Simply put, the moment I die, our baronial house will fall into ruin.
It wasn't wrong even to my ears.
After all, I have no children, nor any close relatives.
"If something happens to the baron now, the Yandel house will disappear that very day. Most of the baron's possessions will be confiscated back to the royal treasury."
For the chairman grandfather who was planning to push me seriously, this was naturally the greatest worry.
At least some risk management, one might say.
If I faltered, all plans would definitely go awry, but if the Yandel house alone could survive, Melves—with its many affiliated houses—could minimize losses…
"…What if I have no intention to marry right now?"
"Then regrettably, this proposal must be put on hold. If even this condition is not met, no matter who I am, it will be impossible to persuade the other houses."
I tentatively tested the waters, but the answer came back far stronger than expected.
There was no push-and-pull here.
"However, even so, our Welbait Marquisate will support you. But… as I said before, gaining the full backing of all Melves houses will come much later."
"…I see."
Nodding roughly to buy some time to think, the chairman grandfather added in a coaxing tone.
"Also, the heir need not be a barbarian. Given Melves's nature, it's preferable they not be human… but I have no intention to enforce that. The top priority is to avoid the Yandel house falling into the royal family's hands."
In other words, my marriage partner need not be barbarian.
"Ah, of course, marrying a woman of the same tribe is the best choice. The first child should inherit proper blood, so there will be fewer disputes among multiple heirs."
Perhaps from living long in the noble circles until his hair turned white, the grandfather spoke so rationally that I first thought he was genuinely reasonable rather than meddlesome.
But…
"…I will take care of that issue myself."
"May I take that as acceptance of the proposal?"
"I said I will consider it."
A very noncommittal, evasive barbarian-style phrasing, leaving plenty of room to escape.
"I see."
Yet the chairman grandfather smiled and continued, as if that was enough.
"If you have no partner, our family's granddaughter—"
Geez, where did this old man come from now.
"Enough."
"If you don't like beastfolk, I could look for daughters of other houses…"
"Didn't I just say enough?"
Sighing as if exasperated, the chairman's eyes darkened meaningfully.
It was not the disappointment of an answer falling short of expectations.
"You do have a partner, then? When I heard the proposal, you must have already thought of someone."
Then the chairman smiled kindly and nodded.
"That will be all for today."
…Experience cannot be ignored.
After the marriage topic was settled,
Just as if waiting for a topic to close, the door opened and a servant brought tea, and we drank while discussing another matter.
"Baron, have you checked on the status of the Yandel family estate under construction in District 7?"
"…I have."
It was still a terrible sight, even in memory.
The roof was beautifully raised, and from the look of it, the house was nearly complete.
If only it hadn't been shattered so badly.
'Looks like the move-in date is delayed again…'
When will the Yandel family estate ever be finished?
It felt hopeless, but I chose to think positively. If it had been completed as originally designed, it would probably have been quite cramped in its current state.
"Given how things are, you'd better buy some nearby land. Your household has grown unexpectedly."
"That seems necessary. But wasn't it the case that earlier the chairman promised to buy land because he knew I needed it?"
"Heh, it's not easy to read Baron Yandel's thoughts. I wanted to hear it clearly."
"Next time just ask directly. It'll be easier for both of us."
"Oh, then. How large a plot do you want? Given the current times, you might be able to buy land at a very reasonable price."
After that, we spent time chatting and discussing minor details like old friends.
And then…
"Let me know as soon as you've decided. There's much to prepare for a grand wedding."
After finishing the private meeting with the chairman, I rode back to the holy land by carriage, staring blankly out the window.
"Marriage, huh…"
It was a topic I had never seriously considered.
Or rather, I had thought about it a few times, but then dismissed the idea as absurd for someone like me.
There was one time I truly thought about it sincerely, but…
It didn't end well.
"Haah…"
My head felt cluttered.
My chest wasn't tight, but for some reason, I kept sighing.
It was like facing a huge mountain I would have to cross someday.
Marriage, marriage, marriage.
Those two words left by the chairman suddenly echoed persistently in my mind.
Clatter.
Even on the rocking carriage.
"The chief! The chief has returned!"
Even when welcomed by the warriors back at the holy land.
"…The Viphron residents settled well, no major issues yet. But it seems a waste to leave so much labor idle, so from tomorrow I'm thinking of deploying them on various tasks in the holy land. Is that okay?"
Even while listening to the administrative officer's report in the office.
And…
"Hehe, sir, try some more of this."
"Thank you."
"…How is it? I added a bit more lemon juice today, does it suit your taste?"
"Delicious."
"You don't look good. Did something bad happen there?"
"No."
Even while eating with my comrades.
That two-letter word lodged like a thorn in my throat, and I couldn't focus on the conversation.
"Marriage, huh…"
What should I do about it?
Should I do it, or should I not?
I have no intention of a political marriage or anything like that, but the thought kept coming back.
"…!!"
"…?!!"
"…??"
If I don't plan to return to Earth anyway.
If I intend to stay and live in this world.
Eventually, I will have to marry someone, won't I?
'So I can have children, grandchildren, and live peacefully with them all my life—'
Hmm, maybe that's not so bad.
"…Maybe it's not so bad after all."
Without realizing it, I said that aloud.
Suddenly realizing, a strange silence fell deeply in the room.
"...."
"...."
Not everyone was looking at me.
Some sat frozen holding their spoons, others dropped their spoons.
"…Hic!"
Someone even hiccupped as if choking.
"…Oh?"
Amid that, someone busily chewing swallowed and let out an odd sound of surprise.
And from that moment—
"Bjorn Yandel."
"Huh?"
"…What did you just say?"
"Y-You said marry! Marry, didn't you?!"
The gazes gathering on me were full of questions.
"I-I also said it might not be so bad!"
Realizing I was talking to myself too late, I was lost for words, when Auyen cautiously spoke up beside me.
"It's certainly time to find a partner. Actually, the whole city wonders why you haven't yet. But…"
"But?"
"Did you suddenly bring up such a topic… Is there someone you're planning to marry?"
The blunt question felt like a spear thrust; everyone at the table swallowed hard.
Understandably so.
No matter what might happen in the future, right now we were practically a community of fate.
So…
'In this case, it's better to be honest.'
I put down my spoon on the table.
Calming my breath, I told them about Melves's proposal.
It wasn't a long story.
Get married and produce # Nоvеlight # heirs quickly.
Then the entire Melves will mobilize to support the Yandel house.
It doesn't matter if the spouse is not barbarian.
That was a proposal simple enough to be summed in a few lines.
But the reactions of my comrades to that were too many to summarize in just a few lines.
"Ah… so that's what happened?"
"The old man was just being foolish."
"So what will you do, sir? If you need a partner no matter what…"
"Oh! A son of Bjorn! Surely he'll have tremendous potential! I'll train him to be a great warrior!"
"Ainard, what do you mean by that?"
"Yes. I can't just ignore that. Ainard said he would raise the old man's son?"
"Huh? What's wrong with that? If he's Bjorn's son, he's like my own child."
"No, I mean…!"
"Stop it! I don't think he meant it like that!"
"Haa…"
It was a situation too confusing to even call that.
Yet the tension was quelled from a most unexpected place.
Strictly speaking, not truly quelled but entering a temporary lull.
"So… are you accepting that proposal?"
Amelia asked bluntly, and the room grew quiet.
"...."
"...."
"...."
Even a recreational instructor used to public speaking would have difficulty opening their mouth with such intense focus.
I smiled bitterly and answered honestly once again.
"I'm going to think about it first."
"…Just think?"
"Uh, yes, just think."
"…But why? Why only think?"
Still a strange question.
I'm not a hermaphrodite barbarian or anything.
"Well…"
"…Well?"
"The other party's consent is needed, isn't it!"
That outburst hung over the table in an awkward silence again.
One second, two seconds, three seconds.
How long did that silence last?
"So… you mean you'll seek consent in the future?"
"Uh…"
"I may be mistaken, but what you said earlier sounded like you already have someone chosen—"
The moment Auyen asked, I jumped up.
As a warrior, I knew well.
A clever warrior must choose the battlefield himself.
Therefore…
"My stomach's full; I'm sleepy!"
"…What?"
"I'm going to bed now!!"
Barbarian-style, I dashed safely to my room.
Then locked the door and lay on the bed, wrapping myself in the blanket, feeling somewhat at ease.
Though showing such a hurried escape to my comrades was a bit embarrassing, it couldn't be helped.
A warrior overcomes any adversity.
Even a barbarian's honesty is a virtue.
But as a K-barbarian with Confucian spirit engraved in my soul, how else could I have spoken?
[You have a partner? When I heard the proposal, you must have already thought of someone.]
Yeah, that's something I can never tell anyone.
'Get a grip, Hansu…'
I wasn't the only one who thought of it.
-x-X-x-
I have never lived a life of shame.
Of course, that doesn't mean I was like the heroes in stories who always find the right answers and overcome every adversity gloriously.
I always did my best, yet there were always things I regretted.
I am a flawed and imperfect ordinary person.
And I am never ashamed to be that kind of person.
But…
"Haah…"
Today, I feel ashamed of myself.
Why did so many faces come to mind the moment I heard the chairman's proposal?
'Am I really going crazy?'
I don't even understand myself.
So I hid under the blankets for a long time, thinking it over.
'Misha Kalstein.'
Well, it's only natural she would come to mind.
She was the first person to break through the walls around me and exchange genuine affection since coming to this world.
'Elwen Fornaci di Tersia.'
Elwen is a bit different from Misha.
There's always a lingering sense of guilt in my heart, but that feeling is clearly different from a romantic one.
Most likely she came to mind because I know how she feels about me, so when marriage was brought up, she popped up.
Why, sometimes people prefer those who like them rather than those they like.
'Amelia Rainwells.'
Ironically, Amelia, whom I first met as an enemy during my raider days, is the most trustworthy person I know.
She is dependable and someone I can rely on in any situation.
Despite all that, she's honestly quite cute sometimes.
But the problem is…
'Why aren't these three the only ones who came to mind?'
Raven, Hyeonbyeol, Ragna.
And Ainard—
'No, he's just a friend.'
Compared to the first three, he was only briefly in my mind, but to be honest, they all crossed my thoughts for a moment.
Like a teenage boy imagining grandchildren's names just because someone smiled kindly, I abstractly pictured married life with each of them.
Surprisingly, I felt that life with any of them would be joyful.
'…Am I really crazy?'
I just don't understand myself at all.
It's not that I want to be with any of them.
Although as a noble it's not institutionally impossible, I simply don't want to.
But then, why did multiple faces come to mind simultaneously?
After long pondering, I found what felt like the closest answer.
'…Maybe it was only natural.'
I still don't have a firm heart for anyone. After what happened with Misha, I've been suppressing and burying those kinds of feelings as much as possible.
In that situation, suddenly bringing up marriage naturally makes you think first of those around you.
Those are all the women close to me, after all.
'Yeah, it's not that I'm strange.'
From others' perspectives it may be mere rationalization, but once I reached that conclusion, my mind was at ease.
So then…
Snore! Snore-rumble!
Unconsciously falling asleep and waking the next morning.
I quietly slipped out of the newly built building where the chief's tent had been without anyone noticing—
"Busy this early in the ❖ Nоvеl𝚒ght ❖ (Exclusive on Nоvеl𝚒ght) morning."
Uh…
"Heh, I just wanted to take a walk…"
I awkwardly smiled while scanning the surroundings, and Amelia chuckled.
"Don't worry. The others aren't nearby. I convinced them to leave after they said they'd wait for you."
"Oh… really…?"
"Someday you'll have to give a proper answer. Everyone's curious about what you'll decide."
Amelia said that as if she'd been waiting to say it, then turned away coolly.
Well, maybe not so cool.
"And… wherever you're going today, don't come back too late. If you plan to stay out, let me know in advance."
Stopping briefly to say that as she walked away, she reminded me of a nagging mom.
Well, that's part of her charm too.
'Ha… why did I bring up marriage at the table…'
That's why one should be careful with words.
They say a single word can repay a thousand gold debts, but it can just as easily cause the opposite.
"The chief is back!!"
"The chief is heading into the city!!"
"Open the gates!!"
I thought I'd just take a stroll, but arriving at the city gate, it opened and I ended up heading to District 7.
District 7, still a ruin because reconstruction hasn't fully started.
Residents wrapped in blankets, lying like vagrants in front of collapsed houses, raised their bodies and looked at me.
"A giant…! It's a giant!"
"What? The baron has come?"
"Baron Yandel…!!"
Maybe because of my reputation as a hero?
Residents who would normally be too scared to be near a noble's procession showed a different attitude toward me.
Of course, it wasn't all good.
It's fine if they just pass by and offer thanks or blessings, but not everyone was like that.
"P-Please! Help my family! Our shop collapsed and if this goes on, next year's taxes…!"
Begging or seeking sympathy was still better than—
"Baron! Baron! What will happen to District 7? What about Viphron? What's going to happen to that Viphron?!"
Some demanded.
"There are rumors the royal family will abandon District 7! Is that true?"
They pressed me.
"Please say something!!"
Many acted as if it was natural I'd answer as if they were claiming lost property.
'…I can't blame them.'
They're struggling every day, and it's frustrating not to hear any clear news.
"Baron!"
"Don't believe the rumors. Reconstruction of District 7 will start soon."
"Baron!"
"Take this and hang in there a bit. I'll work to get more relief supplies."
"Baron!"
"The Viphron barrier? What's so scary about that? Don't worry! This city will never fall!"
Rather than scolding them, I gave encouragement and the answers they hoped for, then moved on through the streets.
How far had I walked?
'…Is it there?'
Since I was this far, I also visited the mage tower.
Letters had already arrived at the holy land several times.
They said thanks to the royal family granting an extended special leave after the expedition, I had been continuing personal research in the tower's lab and asked for a visit soon…
'Impenetrable, my foot.'
Arriving at the tower, I smirked.
They claimed it had never been conquered by invaders in its long history, but that record was broken twice in recent years.
Once by me.
And this time by Noark.
'Actually, it's not that it's impenetrable, just that politics were handled well.'
Though the entrance and exterior were battered, I heard the internal damage wasn't too severe.
When the invasion started, they used the barrier to buy time, took all data and research equipment, then used teleport magic with high-ranking officials and local leaders to evacuate the district.
'They said only the teleportation circle was broken…'
Apparently, Noark also took everything and left, so the royal family only destroyed the magic circle to prevent its use and left the rest untouched—
"Why are you standing at the door? If you're here, just come inside and wait."
Raven appeared behind me as I arrived at the lab.
"Hey, make some noise when you come around."
"…What?"
"Hey, what kind of tone is that to the baron? You're short, too."
"Why are you picking a fight as soon as you see me? Did something annoying happen on the way?"
"..."
"What? Did something actually happen?"
"No."
That wasn't exactly a lie.
More than irritation, I was physically and mentally tired from the attention the residents were giving me.
"Come in first. Let's talk inside."
"Where did you go? I thought you'd be inside since you've been so busy."
"Not far. I went to borrow something from someone I know."
"What?"
"Some experiment tools. Want me to explain?"
"No, forget it."
We entered the lab and took seats; Raven's workspace looked very different from before.
"It's a mess, right? The whole mage tower has been in chaos because of this. My master took care of things while I was away, but some things are still missing."
"I see."
"Well, since we moved stuff to the lab in Karnon, not much was left here anyway. Want some drink? Still, you're the baron."
"Water will do."
We spent the rest of the time chatting about recent events, drinking from Raven's 1.8L flask.
It had been quite some time since the expedition to the underground first floor, and many major things had happened since.
"Yandel, how come something like that happens right after you get back?"
I briefly explained the events in the city, and Raven listened with interest but occasionally laughed in disbelief.
"It seems you're involved in all the incidents in this world."
A sad but undeniable truth.
Honestly, since he knows nearly everything I've gone through, denying it wouldn't convince him.
'Why does it feel like the whole world's against me?'
Was my name Hansu cursed?
That was the serious question on my mind.
"By the way… that's really unfortunate."
Raven's voice grew sincere.
"They say you gave all the essences gained during the first floor expedition to regular explorers. Just by studying those you could have dominated this year's academic awards for years."
"Ah, that…"
"I don't mean to blame you. Honestly, when I heard your decision, I thought it was just like you."
"…Me?"
At first I wondered if he'd figured out the whole truth just from that, but in the end, no.
"You made that choice to save the city and its people, right? It's not wise, but no matter what anyone says, I…"
Raven looked shy and glanced sideways at me.
"Personally… I think it's cool."
It was the first time I saw that kind of look in him.
Respect, maybe?
"Uh… really?"
"Yes."
"But… you know."
"…?"
Raven looked so serious I didn't even try joking as usual, and corrected me.
"Don't be too disappointed."
"Yes. That's right. It's for the greater good. If I acted selfishly, feeling that way might seem pathetic to you—"
"No, no, that's not it…"
How to explain this?
Looking at Raven waiting for me to continue, I just confessed man-to-man.
"Actually…"
"Yes, really?"
"I already secretly set aside the good essences."
"…What?"
After a long pause, the question returned.
"Set aside? What do you mean?"
"Just as I said. If I spread the essences recklessly, the royal family wouldn't be able to properly audit them."
No matter how I think about it, it was a very clever plan.
While I was praising myself inside, Raven spoke in a broken tone like someone denying reality.
"…You touched the royal family's loot?"
"So what?"
"Are you out of your mind?"
I knew this was a situation where such words could be said, but still I couldn't help but tilt my head.
"Why all of a sudden? This isn't the first time."
We already had experience pocketing things in the underground first floor.
Yeah, so…
"You even liked it then, didn't you? Giving it the fancy name 'Crown of Agony.'"
"Th-That's different…! And why do you tell me everything honestly after doing that!!"
Hey, trying to back out.
I felt a little hurt by this attitude, but luckily I know how to handle a mage.
"I don't want to hide anything from you—"
"That doesn't work anymore!"
"…Really?"
He must learn fast since he studied hard.
"Anyway, don't be too hard on me. If it's found out, execution is the same either way, right?"
"No! No! It's different! If we keep it secret, it ends with just us, but this is too big!"
Hmm… that's definitely true.
"So?"
"…?"
"Won't you do research?"
"Th-That…!"
Like a dog in front of treats, Raven didn't know what to do, then lowered his head and answered with a voice like an ant crawling.
"…I guess I have to."
Yeah, I thought so.