Most of the research on the new types of essences had actually been completed back when I was still in the underground first floor, but despite that, I handed over all the essences I had to Raven.
In my view, all wizards were perverts.
Sure, they get a thrill from uncovering the unknown, but they also genuinely enjoy the research process itself.
It's like chewing gum.
Some people spit it out as soon as the sweetness is gone, but others just love the act of chewing and go on all day.
So…
"Then I'll do my best to research this."
Rather than expecting something new to be revealed from additional research, I decided to think of it simply as entrusting the essences to Raven.
Well, it would be great if some research results came out eventually.
Like this.
"Oh, by the way, what was that thing written in the letter? You said you had something to tell me."
"That's right, how could I forget? It's the essence of the Hiphramagent that Ainard obtained during the expedition. I think I figured out the latent ability we hadn't been able to fully understand."
"Oh, really?"
"After returning to the city, I compared the numerical data we collected then with other existing data and found some similarities."
"So what exactly is this latent ability?"
Raven crossed his arms, puffed out his small chest, and said…
"Do you know the grade 3 monster called 'Lamansis'?"
He asked me with an overly confident tone, but honestly, I didn't get it. How can someone that short look down on me?
Maybe the answer to this mystery lies in how far his chin is tilted back—
"Oh, it's natural not to know."
What's he talking about now?
"Well, the 'Lamansis' is—"
"A rare monster that appears in the 9th floor rift?"
Raven shrugged as if his words were taken away.
"…Huh?"
It seemed the tilt of his chin had decreased compared to earlier.
"You knew… about that…?"
Yeah, of course.
I chuckled at how cute his behavior was, then Raven returned to his usual tone.
"But you only know half of it! The Lamansis can't be found through normal means even in the 9th floor rift."
"Well, that makes sense. It's a monster you can only encounter by using Gavrilius's hidden arrangements within the rift, right?"
Nodding like a social barbarian, I replied.
But then…
"…"
For some reason, the usually talkative Raven went quiet again.
The tilt of his chin, previously tilted way back, decreased even more so that the feeling of looking down on me vanished entirely.
In that state, Raven carefully spoke.
"By any chance… Baron Yandel, do you even know what that arrangement is…?"
"So?"
I answered with a tone implying it was a natural question, and Raven's eyes opened wide.
From his expression, I understood something.
"Don't tell me… you don't know?"
"..."
As usual, my silence served as the answer.
"Hmph."
Not even mad.
What? He looked down on me like that without knowing that?
"W-Well! Of course I don't know! Could such high-level info be in a book…? Even the data on essence abilities is so valuable! And historically, only a handful of people have possessed this essence… why are you looking at me like that…?"
"Hmm…"
"..."
Suddenly realizing, our positions had reversed.
I was looking down with arms crossed, and Raven looked somewhat dejected, staring at the ground.
Still, Raven strained to raise his voice.
"So…"
"…?"
"…So, what exactly is that arrangement?"
Only a wizard would still be curious about that.
After explaining the hidden piece within the 9th floor rift, Raven described the passive skill of the Lamansis as a sort of reward.
Honestly, I already knew about it…
'This is just part of social life.'
This time I listened carefully without cutting him off.
"The Lamansis's latent ability is called [Best Friend]. The name might sound trivial, but looking deeper, it's quite a peculiar ability."
Hmm…
Rather than calling [Best Friend] a peculiar ability, it's more accurate to say it has unusual activation conditions.
"According to our guesses, it's a support-type ability. It grants a very strong blessing to one nearby target and to the user themselves."
"Oh?"
"However, this latent ability cannot be activated at will. It's not active normally. A special condition must be met…"
"Such as…?"
"I don't know the details. But in records of past owners, it overwhelmingly activated between male and female pairs… Also, they had the common trait of having spent a very long time together."
That makes sense.
To activate [Best Friend], the essence's owner must max out affection with one target.
So when I got this essence, I fed it to a female companion and bought flowers daily to raise affection.
By the way, it was an essence the player character couldn't use.
The system prevented players from gaining affection toward NPCs.
'So does that mean I can now use this essence directly?'
As a gamer, my curiosity was piqued, but I had no intention of using [Best Friend] myself.
There was no slot for it to begin with…
And from an efficiency standpoint, it's much better to feed it to companions and raise affection…
'…Saying it out loud makes it sound pretty trashy.'
Anyway, after knowing the passive skill, I just felt it was a bit of a burden.
How to put it…
It's a good skill with performance above its grade once activated…
'But is triggering it even possible?'
In-game, maxing affection to 100% is not easy.
In fact, it's almost impossible between same-sex pairs.
When raising affection, it always locks once at 90%, and only after certain sweet events between opposite sexes can it rise slowly.
But…
'Ainard…?'
I can't imagine Ainard in that kind of relationship with another man.
Including me, it's just male friends all around.
"So I guess it only activates between lovers of opposite sexes is my guess… Hey, I'm trying to explain here, why are you thinking about that?"
"Oh, I was just wondering how to activate that ability."
"…That makes sense."
It's quite a complicated problem.
It'd be a shame to waste the skill…
But I can't go around buying cream buns and flirting daily just to activate [Best Friend].
'…Better to just consider this skill nonexistent.'
So I decided to seal [Best Friend] in my mind.
After all, it's an essence already performing well without the passive skill.
"Anyway, thanks, Raven."
"No need to thank me. I ended up not really helping much."
"But at least we found out the latent ability isn't a negative one. That alone eased my worries."
"Hmm… I guess that's true."
I can't tell if he wants gratitude or just wants to be humble.
I didn't know, but after finishing the main topic, we spent time chatting casually.
Then somehow, since I was there anyway, I ended up sitting in that chair I often sat in before and became a test subject again…
I even had a meal in the mage tower cafeteria because I got hungry.
"Wow, it's already this late. It must be dark outside."
"There are no windows, so I wouldn't know. Oh, by the way, Raven, can I borrow your communication crystal for a bit?"
"Who are you trying to contact?"
"I want to contact the holy land. If I get through later, could you tell them for me that I'm sleeping in your lab tonight and going straight to tomorrow's schedule?"
Raven tilted his head.
"…There's no research you need today."
He really is clueless when it comes to important things.
"But just do as I say."
"Okay? Sure… that's not difficult…"
Raven looked at me with curious eyes and asked,
"What exactly is going on?"
Not wanting to stir up trouble by bringing up the marriage topic, I only told half the truth.
"Just…"
"…Just?"
"I just don't want to go home today."
"…Huh?"
"Let me stay here overnight."
I was too lazy even to find an inn.
The next morning, after sleeping roughly on a blanket, Raven woke up first and nudged me awake.
"…Get up. How long are you going to sleep? You might miss your schedule. You said you had an important appointment today."
"Ah…"
"Was it uncomfortable sleeping here?"
"Not at all. The floor was warm, just perfect. Oh? Did you already wash up?"
"…Well, of course. Do you expect me to get up dirty?"
Hmm… I always looked worn out and unwashed when leaving the lab…
Maybe he got sensitive after becoming a soldier?
"Anyway, thanks for letting me stay overnight. I'll come again."
"No, don't come. You just make me tired."
"Huh? You were asleep early yesterday too, right?"
"That's not what I meant. I have to research, so hurry and go."
Pushed by Raven's pressure from the morning, I left the mage tower like being kicked out, then took a carriage from the nearby station to my destination—Eldorado Karnon.
Today was the day.
Leaders of the six races forming the great city of Rapdonia—human, dwarf, elf, barbarian, beastfolk, and dragonkin—gathered for the racial conference.
'This is my first time coming here despite being chief for a long time.'
The conference building was one I'd passed many times before.
Its six columns supporting the roof made it look like a Roman temple, quite eye-catching.
'…Got some time to spare.'
Having been kicked out early, I went to a nearby restaurant to eat and pass time.
Since it was in Karnon, the meal cost much more than expected, which surprised me…
Well, what could I do? When you're hungry, you have to eat.
'They probably won't pay for this meal.'
After finishing, patting my belly, I entered the building where the conference was held.
"…Baron Bjorn Yandel, are you here alone?"
"Is there a problem?"
"No… none. Please come in. The others are waiting."
The guards at the entrance were all from other races, but strangely no barbarians were among them.
'Are they guarding their own mercenaries separately?'
I hadn't heard that from the previous chief…
Could they have forgotten to tell me? But if it was him, it wouldn't surprise me.
"Good work."
After encouraging the guards, I walked in and saw the heavyweights gathered at the center.
Representatives of each of the six races.
What surprised me was that two familiar faces were among them.
The leader of the dragonkin—the Dragon Elder.
And…
'Looks like the beastfolk sent a pure-blood noble from the Red Cat tribe this time.'
The head of the Kalstain family and Misha's…
'Strictly speaking, not her biological father?'
Anyway, the man listed as her father in the genealogy.
"Long time no see. I never imagined I'd see you again at a place like this."
"I understand. I've known your lack of imagination for a long time."
"…I guess you still hold a grudge against me?"
"Not at all."
There's really no grudge.
Back then, I was just a clueless kid.
Now, this guy isn't someone who can casually speak informally anymore.
"Enough with the private talk. Bjorn's son, Bjorn, please have a seat."
The elf representative spoke, and I slowly scanned around.
Though it was a gathering of heavyweights, I didn't feel uncomfortable.
For a very simple reason.
'They use a round table here too…?'
The conference room had a large round table.
I took the empty seat that seemed to be mine, resting my chin on one arm and tapping the armrest with my index finger.
Although it was my first conference,
Tap tap.
For some reason, confidence began to rise inside me.
-x-X-x-
The Dragon Elder of the dragonkin.
The head of the Kalstein family of the beastfolk.
Except for these two, the rest were meeting me for the first time, but it wasn't hard to recognize them without introductions.
"Haha, somehow this is the first time I've seen you. I've heard a lot about you through Titana! I hear you owe her a great debt?"
"Owe? No, it's us who owe Akuraba."
"Haha! You're humbler than the rumors say!"
Malaku Izor, dwarf leader of the Dumoka.
Ah, "Dumoka" is an ancient word meaning "Judging Hammer," but you can just think of it as their term for chief.
'Anyway, this old man wasn't an explorer.'
That's one of Malaku Izor's peculiarities.
Most chiefs, including those here, historically came from explorer backgrounds, but this man rose to this position solely on trust.
'Well, trust means he must be naturally talented at politics.'
In this world, the friendliest-looking people are the ones you shouldn't underestimate.
They're the kind who can protect themselves without anger or irritation.
Ah, unlike that prickly elf.
"Bjorn, son of Yandel, your absence caused several delays in this meeting."
"And?"
"We'd like to hear the reason for your late arrival today."
"Oh, that? I came too early and ended up having a meal nearby, so I was late."
"…A meal?"
"What, don't you eat?"
"..."
The elf chief—or rather, should I say 'Ragsian' instead of chief?—was at a loss for words, probably because the answer was so absurd.
'Come to think of it, every race except barbarians has a fancy name.'
Why do barbarians just use the simple title 'chief'?
I wondered briefly, but it didn't seem important, so I stopped thinking about it.
Ironically, that made sense.
'…Ah, that's why they just remain "chief."'
Why bother changing it? Chief is enough.
It's the most straightforward title.
"That child…"
Just when I thought the power struggle was mostly over, the elven representative, a clear-cut handsome man, spoke.
"Is that child doing well…?"
"You mean Elwen?"
"Who else would it be?"
He looks friendly but why is there such an edge in his voice?
"If it's Elwen, don't worry. She's doing well at our holy land."
Still, thinking of her as part of the household, I answered diligently this time.
But then, what's this?
"Along with the other women?"
"The other women…?"
I asked back in confusion, and all I got was more mysterious words.
"She is special even among our kin. Not just because she's a pureblood heir, but everyone cherishes and loves her."
"…But?"
"If you make tears fall from that child's eyes, you'd better be prepared."
It was a declaration filled with a resolve that seemed willing to repeat the wars of the past.
But I wasn't particularly angry.
Unless for some other reason.
They said this for Elwen, and I'm not foolish enough to confront that.
"That won't happen, so don't worry."
"…Then it's settled. Please take good care of her."
Only then did I realize that his particularly cold attitude toward me was probably because of Elwen.
Not because I'm a barbarian.
'If he hated barbarians, he wouldn't even say "take good care."'
After that conversation, I shifted my gaze to find the last person—the human representative.
"By the way…"
I had been wracking my brain for a while, but I had no idea who this human representative was.
So I asked bluntly, like a barbarian.
"Who the hell are you?"
An outrageously rude question for a summit, but the human representative smiled calmly and answered.
"I am the Marquis of Maxiland. Fortunately, I was honored to represent the humans in this meeting."
I remembered the Marquis of Maxiland.
He belongs to the chancellor faction and is not the right-hand man of the marquis, but more like a left-hand man.
"Oh, I see. I didn't recognize you since this is the first time seeing you in person."
"We met once at the investiture ceremony…"
"I was too preoccupied then."
"Don't worry about it."
After hearing his identity, I understood why no one was paying attention to the human side.
'The intent is clear.'
They sent a low-ranking figure to signal that humans don't plan to take initiative and will quietly listen and leave.
The marquis himself seemed to just want to keep a low profile.
"Well then, with everyone here, shall we begin the meeting?"
And so my first racial conference began.
The first racial conference I attended was somewhat different from what I expected.
No deep discussions with set topics.
No serious decisions about world affairs.
No secret talks about the world's mysteries.
None of that.
Though it was still early, the conference I observed was simply a place where everyone politely voiced complaints and argued.
Like this.
"I heard the dwarfs are buying land from Noumtree. Are you trying to get into farming too?"
"Why? Do the elves have to approve land purchases?"
"So does that mean we and the beastfolk can start metallurgy businesses too?"
By the way, in these minor disputes, our barbarians were completely outsiders.
Because we had no territory within the city.
With no territory, we had no territorial disputes…
"Ha… Don't worry. We have no intention of invading your territory. We only bought land to expand Noumtree's forges."
While these misunderstandings could be resolved with a few words, there were other cases not so easy.
"Isn't it the beastfolk who crossed the line?"
"What line did we cross?"
"Oh? I heard the black bear tribe took in a traitor. Did I hear wrong?"
"..."
Apparently, the beastfolk took in a dwarf craftsman who had been exiled from the dwarfs for crimes.
"I understand the Dumoka's concerns, but we can't meddle in every individual case, can we? It seems they owed that fellow a debt."
"Haha, so they're not just taking him in to steal his tech?"
That's what you call a remark with a bite.
"Head of the family, enough nonsense. Kick that bastard out now."
The dwarf leader's fierce gaze was formidable, but the Kalstein head met it without flinching.
"If you can't do that?"
"Well, we have no choice. We'll respond in kind."
"..."
Neither side would back down.
In such cases, uninvolved representatives had to mediate.
"Putting aside the tech leakage issue, morally it's wrong for a kin's exile to be accepted by another race. I side with the Dumoka."
"Me too."
In the end, it was decided to expel the dwarf exile from the beastfolk.
Oh, and I abstained from voting.
After all, I don't really care about dwarf criminals.
'They're just talking among themselves, so this is boring.'
As the conference dragged on and my time here grew dull and tedious, I dozed off, resting my chin.
Suddenly, the topic shifted to me.
"So, chief, what about you?"
"…Huh?"
"You seem quite interested in construction tech. Since we're all here, why not tell us about that?"
Ah… this old man is trying to watch me closely.
"If it's about that, I am somewhat interested."
The Dragon Elder seemed genuinely curious.
"I hear the holy land has changed a lot?"
"Well, it's changed quite a bit. You can't keep living barbaric forever."
"If you think that, how about starting by changing how you speak?"
"Hmm, that's our tradition."
Why change what's comfortable?
Except for the king, everyone talks casually here—it's like a cheat code.
Anyway, I explained roughly how the holy land changed with the new buildings, and the Dragon Elder looked fascinated.
"It's hard to imagine just by words. To achieve so much progress in such a short time."
"Such a short time…? When was the last time you came?"
"…About twenty years ago."
Dragonkin's sense of time is completely different from ours.
I was silently impressed and was about to wrap up the conversation about our holy land when—
"Haha, barbarians have learned construction tech? As a craftsman, I'm very pleased. I hear you're also participating in this royal contract… Is that true?"
"Nothing is decided yet."
"Good to hear."
I smiled bitterly at the dwarf leader's words.
That contract was just discussed a few days ago at the Melbes assembly.
Whether their intelligence is good or if one of us is a big blabbermouth, information was leaking freely.
'Information really flows out easily.'
I couldn't really blame them.
Melbes itself is a group of mixed races.
Most of what's said there surely reaches the ears of the chiefs.
Still, this was a bit unexpected.
"By the way… I heard you're getting married?"
The Dragon Elder slyly asked me.
I flinched a little and glanced around, surprised to see that not only the Dragon Elder, but everyone seemed to already know.
"Ah, that. I heard the Melbes chairman has been pressuring you to get married."
"Well… you'd be old enough to have three kids anyway."
…What? How do they all know about this?
I doubt the chairman was running around telling everyone.
'Scary bunch…'
A chill ran down my spine, but I didn't show any sign of it.
One thing I learned from wearing the Lion Mask.
Act tough first; it's better than looking like an easy target.
Yeah, that must be it…
"If you don't have {N•o•v•e•l•i•g•h•t} a suitable partner, how about my daughter?"
When the Dragon Elder said that, I lost control of my expression.
Honestly, if I'd been drinking water, I might have spit it out.
"…Your daughter?"
"Oh, I didn't specify if it was the eldest or youngest."
Uh… I didn't mean to ask like that.
"Well, I wouldn't mind either way if it were you—"
"Why wouldn't you mind?!"
Suddenly the elven representative frowned and shouted, and the Dragon Elder hastily defended himself.
"Oh, that was a misunderstood remark. I just brought it up because I like this guy, not for some political union among clans—"
"That's not it."
"…Huh?"
"Didn't the Prime Dragon say earlier that Bjorn, son of Yandel, made a promise with me?"
"…A promise? Was there such a thing?"
"He asked me not to let tears fall from that child's eyes, and he agreed. He even reassured me not to worry."
"Oh… I vaguely remember that… What does that have to do with this?"
The Dragon Elder looked genuinely puzzled.
Then—
"Isn't everyone misunderstanding something?"
Suddenly a third party interrupted.
"That daughter and he are already deeply involved."
It was Misha's father.
"Indeed… There were rumors before."
"Well, what do you think? Is that true?"
The elf chief and the Dragon Elder both looked at me, and with lips suddenly dry, I picked up the glass of water on the table only to put it down again.
"…"
I felt like I might choke just drinking water.
-x-X-x-
The leader of the Red Cat tribe, Albreynib Kalstein.
Honestly, the fact that this old man is even saying something like this is kind of laughable.
From the start, he's never been on good terms with Misha, and he's hated me intensely for a long time.
"But now, at this timing, he's butting in…?"
Well, maybe I've become strategically useful now?
I thought it was highly likely, but even so, it wasn't easy to meet the patriarch's gaze.
No, it wasn't just the patriarch — Uncle Dragon and the Fairy Representative were the same.
"Speak."
"Is what the patriarch says true?"
"Then are you implying I'm lying?"
I felt like I was surrounded by three fathers-in-law.
Of course, Uncle Dragon, who has barely any relationship with his daughters, was a bit easier to deal with…
The patriarch and the fairy representative.
Hah, but why are those two so uncomfortable?
I felt like sitting on a bed of nails would be much better.
Physically and mentally.
"…Did I come here for nothing?"
Just as I was starting to regret joining this tribal council, a ray of salvation came from a completely unexpected place.
"How about everyone restrains themselves a bit?"
The dwarf chief's voice was sharp but full of dissatisfaction.
"I'm not saying I don't understand the feelings of a father with daughters, but someone might think this is a matchmaking meeting."
"..."
"Besides, everyone knows that what's happening here is strategically wrong. Our five tribes, who restrict human interactions, have avoided deep exchanges, and through that, we've always maintained balance. But once someone crosses the line, that line will lose all meaning."
The dwarf chief's sharp words were perfectly sound both logically and morally.
But…
"Hmm, I think the line Dumocha talks about lost its meaning long ago."
Uncle Dragon didn't seem to agree and immediately started to rebut.
"This friend here is already a representative of a tribe and a noble affiliated with the royal family. Has there ever been such a case until now?"
"That issue… didn't the royal family bluntly say not to make a problem of it?"
Apparently, the dwarf chief had been complaining ever since I became a titled tribal chief.
"Well, being a dwarf probably means he's narrow-minded too, so it's understandable…"
Still, I felt a natural urge to seize a chair that seemed utterly unnecessary out of sheer annoyance—
"Therefore, there's no meaning in keeping the line anymore. The balance has already been broken simply because the royal family got involved."
I suppressed my urge and focused on the continuing conversation.
It seemed like an important discussion.
"The royal family no longer intends to let our five tribes unite… That's what I've been thinking a lot lately. What's the viscount's opinion?"
Uncle Dragon's sharp words, which seemed initially directed at the dwarf chief, quickly turned toward Viscount Maxiland, the human representative.
It was like the entire buildup was aimed at this question.
"Haha, how would I know the royal family's thoughts…"
Viscount Maxiland laughed awkwardly and slithered out like an eel.
It was astonishing how shamelessly he said that while attending as the human representative…
"Then does that mean my thoughts are wrong?"
"I think it would be better if you consider me a non-person during this meeting. Would that be difficult?"
Seeing him speak strongly on this point, it was clear Viscount Maxiland wasn't someone to be underestimated.
"Well, that's probably why he was sent to this meeting."
When Uncle Dragon didn't say anything more, the viscount briefly scowled, then resumed smiling foolishly.
"Haha, I'm embarrassed, but this is my first time at a meeting like this. Today, I came as a learner, so please don't pay too much attention."
"A learner… that alone is enough. We can clearly see how the royal family views us."
"..."
The viscount fell silent as if telling us to figure it out ourselves, and that ended the topic.
Returning to the original matter—
"Clears throat. Still, my opinion hasn't changed. It is wrong for the tribal chief to marry an other tribe member."
The dwarf chief glanced at the viscount quietly smiling in the corner and continued.
"Balance must be maintained. That's the only way our tribes can show loyalty to the royal family."
It seemed the dwarf chief wanted to appeal to the royal family especially ★ 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 ★ in a situation like this.
That our dwarves are not some dangerous tribe.
'Why is this old man so timid? Maybe because he's not an explorer?'
The dwarf chief seemed very different from the dwarves I knew, but knowing the burden of responsibility, I couldn't completely blame him.
Of course, that didn't mean I was going to just smile and let it pass.
"So, you're saying I should marry among my own kind?"
"That would be the ideal situation, but it doesn't necessarily mean that. Whether it's beastmen or fairies, if it's an ordinary woman, there'd be no political concerns."
In other words, Elwen or Misha are no-go.
"Political concerns, huh…"
At first I just listened with amusement, but it gradually became hard to stay silent.
"Dumocha, I suddenly got curious, is it okay if I ask?"
"Ask anything you want."
Looking at the dwarf chief who answered like a generous senior, I just asked straightforwardly.
"Why do you keep telling me what to do?"
"…?"
"Are you my superior or something?"
As I said that, I added a gesture scanning around at my eye level.
Of course, the dwarf was way below me from that angle.
"…If I offended you, I apologize. It was just advice—"
"Oh, then I'll give you some advice too."
I cut straight to the point while watching the dwarf chief who looked confused.
"I am the chief of the Barbarians, a baron of the Kingdom of Lapdonia, and the master of the Anabada clan—"
Well, he probably already knew all that.
"Above all, I am a warrior."
It didn't seem like he truly understood.
Looking down at the dwarf chief who seemed somewhat intimidated, I continued as if threatening.
"So never—"
"..."
"Don't order me around."
Ah, but if I ended it there, would that really count as advice?
Suddenly I thought to add one last sentence to finish the advice.
"If you don't want to duel me."
Yeah, that's advice alright.
"..."
That dwarf chief who never even set foot in the labyrinth had nothing to say.
"..."
Whether it was Patriarch Kalstein, who once pinned me down with a single strike,
Or Uncle Dragon, leader of the strongest race, the dragonmen,
Or the fairy who is loved by all spirits.
Anyone.
"Do you all understand now?"
I don't think I'm going to lose.
When I think about it from the start.
No, I don't even have to just think about it.
I looked directly at the dwarf chief, who wore a shocked expression from my strong words, and said.
"Isn't it ridiculous to talk about maintaining balance at this point?"
Because until now, the barbarians were the weakest.
A truly hopeless survival rate.
Because of that, there was always a lack of talent, and useful funds were always at rock bottom.
Also, our inherent lack of talent in politics or business was a major reason barbarians remained the weakest.
"I was the first barbarian noble in Lapdonia's long history."
It's not like barbarians get discriminated against.
It's something I've often joked about, but it wasn't made out of nothing.
Back when everything was barren.
When I, Bjorn, son of Yandel, lived from the weak side.
"I experienced endless contempt, mockery, and discrimination against barbarians living in this city."
"Our warriors could never hold normal jobs inside the city, and in the labyrinth we had to fight off raiders targeting our hearts."
"At that time, we couldn't even give young warriors proper shoes. All we could provide were one weapon and seven days' worth of hardtack."
And here's the important part.
"What about you guys back then? Did you think balance had to be maintained back then?"
"That—"
"Probably not."
I cut off the dwarf chief's excuse.
There was no need to listen.
"If that had been the case, the previous chief wouldn't have ignored the request he made at this very meeting."
There was once a misunderstanding, but the previous chief did not just watch the barbarians decline helplessly.
Though lacking skill, he also tried.
One of his proposals at this meeting was to help forbid the mage tower's heart research for the warriors.
"…Was that really it? Did that day make you harbor grudges against us?"
The dwarf chief's expression softened as if he finally understood and spoke soothingly like to a child.
"But that day couldn't be helped. The conflict between the mage tower and barbarians had to be avoided. For the sake of your barbarians—"
What is he talking about?
That's not what I meant to say.
"I think you misunderstand."
I cut him off and spoke again clearly.
"Of course, I know."
I'm no naive barbarian.
As chief, I looked into records and studied history to uncover the hidden backstory.
"That you secretly supported the fairies behind the scenes while claiming neutrality during the relic war."
"That you secretly met with the mage tower's wizards right before the tribal meeting."
"That the rumor that barbarians couldn't have normal jobs in the city actually originated from the other tribes long ago."
I already knew everything.
But…
"Still, I hold no grudges."
I mean it sincerely.
I'm not resentful or hurt just because you didn't help when we were in trouble or stabbed us in the back.
"I just dislike it."
"..."
"The hypocritical attitude of suddenly talking about balance now."
Yeah, so…
"Please don't ever talk like that in front of me again. That nonsense about harmony and balance."
After I asked politely, silence fell.
And I didn't feel uncomfortable at all in that silence.
Maybe because I finally was able to say aloud what I'd only thought in my mind in front of representatives of all tribes.
On the contrary, even that silence felt refreshingly satisfying.
But…
"Hmm…"
Unfortunately, that time didn't last long.
"Bjorn Yandel's son, I understand your meaning."
The fairy representative nodded.
"I have no intention to force who you must marry, and whatever choice you make, I will support you."
Uncle Dragon also agreed.
"But then…"
At last, Patriarch Kalstein took the lead and asked.
"Then who do you intend to marry?"
Ah, I feel like I'm going to choke for real.
-x-X-x-
I don't have the habit of sharing my story in detail in front of others, but today I bit the bullet and spoke up.
If I glossed over it, they'd surely keep bringing up this issue…
Besides, after all, it's also about their daughters (not their biological daughters, but girls like daughters).
"Misha Kalstein and I are simply ordinary comrades right now."
At my first words, a wrinkle formed on the patriarch's forehead.
He stared at me like I was blocking my daughter's marriage path by calling it just an ordinary partnership.
On the other hand, the fairy representative's expression brightened — albeit briefly.
"Oh, then—"
"Elwen Fornaci di Tersia is the same."
Upon hearing my next words, the fairy representative's face immediately stiffened.
"Ho, so that means there's no partner yet?"
Seizing the moment, Uncle Dragon tried to slip in his own angle, but I shut that down sharply.
"That doesn't mean I'll ever be your son-in-law. Whether Pen or Ravien, I've never thought of them as a romantic interest."
"Ah, understood. Affection between men and women is important. That's unfortunate."
Surprisingly, Uncle Dragon accepted my words easily.
Then he asked,
"May I offer you some advice?"
"…I'm listening."
"For someone like you, a political marriage might not be necessary. You have stood alone and achieved so much."
"But,"
He sipped his ~Nоvеl𝕚ght~ tea, then met my gaze and continued.
"Paradoxically, because of that, whoever you make a vow with, your marriage will be used politically. Please keep that in mind."
It felt like everything about bringing up marriage so far was just a buildup to this natural advice.
Maybe Uncle Dragon truly wanted to let me know this through the patriarch's and fairy representative's reactions.
With the Noark invasion and Viphron blockade, the times are chaotic.
The patriarch and fairy rep, having endured much, probably weren't really pushing that hard for the sake of their daughters—or so I thought—
"Anyway, if you don't have a set partner, come visit the temple often. Our youngest daughter wants to see you."
Hmm… Suddenly, the advice I just heard started to feel a bit suspect, but anyway.
"…Pen is definitely out."
"Oh? So the elder sister's side is okay?"
"…"
When I looked at Uncle Dragon with a baffled gaze, he burst into an inappropriate light laugh for his serious face.
"Puhaha! Just kidding, just kidding. So you guys stop bothering this friend here, got it?"
Uncle Dragon laughed heartily, and the stiff atmosphere noticeably softened.
'Is this what experience looks like…?'
Since the eldest Uncle Dragon acted like this, even the patriarch and fairy rep found it hard to continue speaking…
"More importantly, I want to discuss this situation. What do you all think?"
With a smooth topic change, the talk about my marriage was completely over.
"This situation…"
"You mean the Noark invasion."
I opened my ears to catch information I hadn't heard before, but unfortunately, there was nothing particularly useful.
Not much different from Melves.
"There's a rumor that Noark has a mage who inherited the Great Sage's vision."
"It makes sense such rumors spread since they tampered with the protective magic circle without the royal relic."
"I've heard it's quite possible that it's not just nonsense."
"Yes… Previously, there was magic that teleported tens of thousands of Noark troops at once from the underground fortress."
Though some things were mentioned that I hadn't heard in Melves, it was just information that became known over time.
There didn't seem to be much difference in intelligence between the two groups.
After all, Melves was formed by nobles from various tribes.
It was natural they knew what the tribe leaders knew, and vice versa.
'Well, Uncle Dragon definitely seems to know something.'
Maybe because of the way the conversation leaked such feelings, other representatives tried to test Uncle Dragon, but he coolly avoided the situation with an impassive expression.
"Well, I don't know much either. If I learn anything, I'll let you know immediately."
Hmm, he definitely knows something.
Maybe if I ask him separately later, he might give me a hint? Who knows.
After that, the meeting continued with unproductive talk and eventually ended.
"It was a useful meeting. Let's meet again next time."
After the meeting was dismissed, everyone stood and left the hall, but approaching the exit, a strange sense of deprivation came over me.
"…Dumocha, thank you for your hard work."
"Ragsian, the carriage is ready."
"We will escort you to the sacred place, Patriarch."
The dwarves, fairies, beastmen, and even the viscount had brought their soldiers and servants to see them off. Oh, and the dragonmen only had one person accompanying.
"Ahem…!"
As soon as he saw me, the white-haired elderly dragonman quickly hid something he was fiddling with.
That was the same person who had once tested my insight with a ring puzzle at the dragon temple.
"Oh, they said you can't get that again?"
When I tried to peek at the puzzle hidden behind him with interest, the dragonman jumped in shock and turned around.
"Th-this is a different item from that time…"
Huh? Why is his tone like that again?
Ah… Maybe now that I'm a noble and a tribal chief, it's harder to speak casually like before?
"Can I take a look?"
At my question, the dragonman shuddered and sent a pleading look to Uncle Dragon nearby.
Hey, no one's bullying you.
'Now he can't say anything.'
Before, when I had no power or status, I never felt guilty about anything, but now it just feels like I'm bossing people around.
"Enough. I won't look, so just go quickly."
"…Thank you."
Thank? Who really said thank you?
Did anyone threaten to take it away?
"Well then, we'll go ahead. Come visit the temple whenever you have time. You're always welcome."
"I understand."
Realizing he wasn't just being polite but suggesting a private meeting later, I nodded, and Uncle Dragon coolly disappeared from sight.
"Well then."
Ah, this guy's dragon magic is spatial teleportation.
Is there really any race as overpowered as dragonmen?
'Then I should start preparing too…'
Just as I was about to leave through the somewhat hectic entrance, I suddenly felt an overwhelmingly persistent gaze from somewhere.
'Who is that?'
The one staring was one of the people brought by the fairy tribe…
'…Huh?'
The fairy man who caught my eyes strode toward me and revealed his identity.
"Nice to meet you, Baron Yandel. I am Beleg Shusia di Tersia."
A famous yet familiar name.
"Ah, you're the one…"
Beleg Shusia di Tersia.
A top-tier explorer with high status among the fairies…
"Elwen's maternal uncle."
One of the few 'family' Elwen still has.
Although this was my first meeting with him, I'd heard a lot about this man from Elwen, so I had some goodwill toward him.
That was because when the dragon slayer attacked the fairy sanctuary, this man saved the Fornaci sisters.
He also helped Elwen in many ways afterward.
"Glad to meet you. I've wanted to see you someday."
"Likewise."
"…Huh?"
I reached out happily to shake hands, but for some reason, I felt quite a strong grip.
At first, I wondered what that was about.
After all, it had been ages since anyone squeezed my hand like that.
'Hmm…'
Not knowing what to do, I just waited without tightening my grip.
He was someone Elwen was grateful to.
What would I gain by overpowering him anyway?
'Yeah, that's adult behavior…'
With that thought, I smiled softly and relaxed, and the other side loosened their grip and ended the handshake.
And then…
"As expected, rumors are never to be trusted."
…Huh?
What's that? Did he become confident because he thought I was weak?
I was tilting my head in confusion.
"Your conduct is far from impatient, and you don't give value to meaningless fights, making you a difficult opponent."
Suddenly, he praised me with a serious face and bowed.
"Thanks to that, my worries are lessened. Please take good care of that girl."
I felt a little dazed.
If I had squeezed his hand and won, this evaluation wouldn't have come.
But the ambiguous feeling lasted only briefly.
"Well then…"
After a glance from the fairy representative, he joined his group, and I was struck by another strange sensation.
'Beleg Shusia di Tersia…'
Why do I keep feeling like I've seen him somewhere before?
The tribal council was less fruitful than expected.
Also, it was full of an unexpected kind of discomfort.
'…Phew, I didn't really do anything but I'm so tired.'
The only schedule left until the next labyrinth opening was the royal meeting in two days.
Well, having just finished a long expedition, I planned to skip this one…
'Even if I don't go in, I'm curious…'
How will the situation change?
From my experience, bad things always happen when entering the labyrinth at times like this.
"Sigh…"
While thinking on the street for a moment, I stopped by Karnon's administration office and sent a message to the sacred place.
I said I'd stay a few more days and even attend the royal meeting before returning…
Thud!
Soon after leaving the office, I rode a carriage straight to Gnome Tree.
Maybe Uncle Dragon knows something.
He had even silently signaled me to come anytime.
Feeling it would be more productive to meet Uncle Dragon once than rest.
'…If I'd known, I should have asked to be taken along earlier…'
As usual, I soon fell asleep snoring, and the carriage reached its destination without incident.
Entering the dragon sacred place was uneventful.
"Welcome, Baron Yandel."
The dragonman guard, apparently tipped off by Uncle Dragon, opened the gate without properly checking my identity.
And…
'Walking here is really tough.'
After a long climb, I finally arrived at the dragon sanctuary, right at the dragon god temple in the center.
"Hmm, I didn't expect you'd come straight here."
"Why? You said come anytime. Was that just talk?"
"To be honest… I thought you'd come after the royal meeting."
"We don't live as long as you do. We must live each day meaningfully."
"Living each day meaningfully… That's a really good saying."
"Anyway."
We weren't close enough for a long introduction, and we'd already covered the preliminaries in the earlier meeting, so I got straight to the point as soon as we met.
"So… do you have something to tell me? I got the feeling you might."
"As I said earlier, I expected you'd come after the royal meeting. I was going to give advice after hearing your thoughts then."
"…Is something happening at the meeting?"
"Not exactly happening… but you'll soon hear anyway, so I'll tell you in advance."
Uncle Dragon first revealed there were two things he knew, then went on.
"First is about your marriage."
"Marriage…?"
"The royal family wants to promote a marriage between you and a human noblewoman."
Why is everyone so interested in my love life?
-x-X-x-
The royal family wants to marry me off to a noblewoman from the human tribe.
There can be many interpretations of this move.
A pure-hearted person might be happy, thinking the royal family finally favors me and wants to support me from now on…
"Lapir, I want to ask you one thing."
"Go ahead."
"Is the royal family trying to put a leash on me?"
Uncle Dragon didn't answer easily.
"Well, I don't really know about that. But… your choice will be a kind of answer from the royal family's perspective."
"If you marry a human, it means you bow down and submit…"
"And if you refuse, it's the opposite."
I started to understand why Uncle Dragon said that no matter who I marry, the marriage would inevitably be used politically.
"Lapir, is the promise from that time still valid?"
"If you mean the unconditional support and cooperation of the dragon tribe toward you, then yes. It's still valid. Oh, of course, as I said back then, if the king does not intervene."
"I see…"
"But aren't you thinking too negatively?"
"Well, I'm just used to assuming the worst first."
I'll have to think about this part more myself. So, I asked Uncle Dragon a few more questions and then ended that topic.
'I don't even know if the king intervened, nor who the marriage partner is…'
Still, having the heads-up means I can handle the royal meeting calmly without surprise.
"So if marriage is the first thing, what's the second?"
I asked Uncle Dragon about the second piece of news he hadn't told me, and heard something totally unexpected.
"The second is the sealing of the labyrinth."
"…Sealing?"
"Just as it sounds. I don't know the reason well either, but it seems the sealing of the labyrinth will be discussed at the royal meeting."
"So it's not confirmed?"
"No, formally it's just a topic for discussion, but it seems the decision has already been made internally."
"I see…"
I asked about the schedule and details of the sealing, but Uncle Dragon didn't seem to know much more.
"…"
While standing there uncomfortably lost in thought, Uncle Dragon spoke to me again.
"Since things have come this far, may I give you one more piece of advice?"
"You may anytime."
When I nodded, Uncle Dragon repeated exactly what I had said at the tribal council.
"You are the chief of the Barbarians, a baron of the Kingdom of Lapdonia, and also the master of the rapidly growing Anabada clan."
I already knew what he was about to say.
"No matter how you see yourself, you can no longer live as just one warrior."
The warriors of the sacred place.
The thousands of Viphron residents who became vassals of our clan.
And my comrades as well.
"You have countless people to be responsible for. No matter what you think or do, your marriage cannot be just yours alone."
Right now, Uncle Dragon was speaking — or rather, gently lecturing me.
"Make choices for them. Even for your own sake."
It felt like a blow to the back of my head.
From Uncle Dragon's perspective, my postponing marriage probably looked like shirking responsibility.
For nobles, political marriages were not optional.
To them, love was romanticism, and throughout time, romanticism always meant inefficiency.
"That's all I wanted to say to you. I hope you don't take it too harshly."
"Not harshly. It's not wrong."
Maybe I'm a romanticist.
Or at least less stripped of modern sentiment — though even nowadays, it happens often.
Even if it's not political marriages among conglomerates, there is a saying.
Marriage is reality.
"I hope it helps you."
"Don't worry. It already has."
I meant that sincerely.
Because now I think I know what I should do.
"What about Ravien?"
"Well, that kid doesn't come to the sacred place much these days. Honestly, I don't know what or where she's doing."
"Don't you talk often?"
"You'll understand once you have children. It's not like you can have a conversation just because you want one."
"…I see."
"At some point, unless it's necessary, conversations just stop. Ravien wasn't like that when she was younger though…"
Seeing ❖ Nоvеl𝚒ght ❖ (Exclusive on Nоvеl𝚒ght) Uncle Dragon grumble like that made me laugh somehow.
Is that how all parents are?
Anyway, after my talk with Uncle Dragon, I met Uncle Dragon's daughter Pen again after a long time, by his suggestion.
"You're here? Thought you'd never come."
"Knowing my situation, you say that?"
"Glad you came back alive."
"..."
Maybe because he's the one who brought me the dragon slayer's heart?
His prickly attitude has almost disappeared, replaced by warmth.
"But… don't you think I've changed?"
"Don't know."
"You grew taller, this much!"
"Oh."
Now that I think about it, I did grow a bit.
Still a little runt, though.
'Because the dragon slayer cursed me, my body's time was frozen…'
It seems that as my body recovers, the growth that had stopped before has resumed…
"Wait a bit. I'll be like big sister soon too."
"Uh…"
Wanting to be like Ravien might be a bit much.
After almost a year, I've barely grown that much, so I'd probably remain in the runt category.
Though it's a bit unfair to say that to a kid who's now healthy.
"Yeah, yeah. I'll cheer you on."
"Well, since you're here, tell me some stories."
We spent the time talking about the underground first floor expedition, and stayed overnight at the dragon temple.
The next morning, the three of us—Uncle Dragon, Pen, and I—had breakfast and left early for Karnoon in the Zodiac.
And…
'Being a noble is nice.'
I arrived a day early at the Palace of Wisdom for the royal meeting, staying in the assigned VIP room, relaxing and eating.
Well, I was trying to.
But…
Knock, knock.
As soon as I entered the palace, nobles kept visiting.
"Haha, Baron Yandel, we heard you arrived early. Care for a drink and some conversation?"
Purely social visits.
"I have a proposal for Baron Yandel. Care to listen? I assure you, it won't be a loss."
A businessman disguised as a peddler.
"They say you're looking for a marriage partner…"
Child-sellers.
And…
'What is this?'
An unidentified letter slipped through the door gap.
[Midnight, garden fountain, come quietly.]
The letter only had those three words, no sender's name.
I hesitated for a moment but…
'How can I ignore a mysterious creepy letter?'
So when midnight came, I sneaked out the window and headed to the promised place.
The fountain at the garden's labyrinth-like center.
Waiting briefly, soon the mysterious sender appeared.
"Jerome Saintred."
The count and First Royal Knight Commander, known as the Knight of Light and protector of the kingdom.
Or rather, the ancient hero who took over that body.
Dragon Knight Cornelius Brungreed.
"I didn't expect you to be the one who sent the letter."
"I thought it best to meet secretly. Fortunately, no rats followed me."
"So why did you call me?"
I asked directly, and the chief frowned.
"Do you really not know? Or are you saying you don't intend to keep your promise?"
Ah, right.
I promised to return the temple relic.
Quickly, I opened a pocket dimension and took out Karui's heart, which the chief had entrusted to me.
'I'm a bit uneasy about this… but it's a promise.'
There was no choice anyway.
If I didn't give this, who knows what drastic choice the chief would make.
"..."
After carefully examining the item and finding no issues, the chief tucked it away.
"So, is that the end of your business?"
"The most important business for now."
"You mean there's more?"
Alert and ready, I stared at the chief.
But…
"The royal meeting will discuss your marriage."
"I know."
"Then that's quick."
No matter what was said, I tried to keep a poker face.
"Preferably marry that woman. The royal family's last lifeline to you."
"Lifeline…? What the hell are you talking about?"
"Literally that. If you don't accept their offer, there's a high chance you and your comrades won't survive."
Maybe because I've lived too long as a monster,
As an ordinary barbarian, it's hard to keep up with this kind of talk.
"Please slow down and explain more carefully."
"The royal family—or rather, the chancellor—worries about your growing power. You can legally have multiple wives, and there are several women suitable for that."
Misha Kalstein, daughter of the Red Cat tribe patriarch.
Elwen, pure-blooded fairy.
And…
'Also Uncle Dragon's daughters.'
Of course, I'm no playboy and have zero intention of marrying all of them.
But to those who view marriage purely politically, that's cause for concern.
Though there's one contradiction here.
"I understand what you mean. But what does marrying a human noble have to do with it? Even if I took another wife afterward—."
"That's impossible."
"…Huh?"
I hesitated as the chief smiled.
"Under Lapdonia noble law, even titled nobles can only have one wife in some cases."
"…Ah."
Only then did I recall a law I had forgotten.
"When the wives have the same noble title…"
"You knew. Strictly speaking, it means when the spouse has a higher title… I don't know why such laws haven't changed after thousands of years."
The chief muttered some old-man remarks, but I didn't hear a word.
'Wait a minute…'
It's very rare for female nobles in Lapdonia to inherit titles.
And among those, female nobles with viscount or higher titles are even rarer…
'Is there even an unmarried female noble with a higher title than me…?'
Not that I know of.
…No, there wasn't.
At least, not when I just became a noble and was studying this.
Time always brings change.
"W-wait a minute…"
As of now, there was exactly one such person in Lapdonia.
An unmarried female noble with a higher title than mine.
"Could it be Viscountess Ragna Peprok is my marriage partner?"
"That's correct."
"..."
Viscount… Is this bastard really crazy?
-x-X-x-
Ragna Litaniel Peprok.
The illegitimate daughter of Terserion, the Prime Minister of Lapdonia.
Well, her current used name omits her nurse's name, 'Litaniel,' but anyway.
"Your expression isn't good. I've heard she's quite a beauty."
Sure, I know that.
But that's not the problem now.
More than the awkwardness this ⊛ Nоvеlιght ⊛ (Read the full story) marriage proposal will cause between friends.
"Viscountess Peprok is the Prime Minister's illegitimate child."
"I've already confirmed that. The Prime Minister made a strong move. That means your growth has been exceptional."
"So you still think I have to marry her? The moment I do, an invisible leash will be tied around my neck."
"There's no choice. Imagine what would happen when the Prime Minister seriously starts to watch you."
When he said "seriously starts to watch,"
I didn't need to imagine deeply—countless sabotage plots flashed in my mind.
Interference in the reconstruction of District 7.
Consequently, vassals from Viphron would be unable to pay taxes and would be dragged to the gallows en masse as soon as next year begins.
Maybe the Barbarian hearts would again be classified as researchable items.
Also, only our warriors would face stricter checkpoints and could be falsely accused.
"..."
With a serious expression, the chief spoke, trying to persuade me.
"Don't sanctify marriage too much. Bow first, then build your strength afterward."
But even he sounded a bit strange.
Listening to him from the start, I felt a kind of discomfort.
"But you…"
He hesitated briefly, but then, as usual, I bluntly asked.
"Why do you keep trying to persuade me like this?"
"That's because you—"
"So whether I succeed or fail, why are you the one worrying?"
I asked directly why he was meddling, and after a brief pause, he answered.
"I can't help but worry."
"…?"
"Because I need you to fulfill my wish."
It sounded sincere, but understanding it was another matter.
"You need me for your wish?"
I don't know why so many people come looking for me for their own wishes.
Honestly, I'm curious myself.
What exactly do they ultimately want?
"Just be frank. I hate those who only scheme behind the scenes."
"I know your nature. But the time is not right yet. I'll just say one thing—there's a high chance our interests align."
"Is that so? Then I have no choice but to filter what you say."
I replied almost threateningly, but the chief's face remained calm as if letting me do as I please.
"Judge as you will. To me, marrying the viscountess seems a much better choice… but that's just my position. No one can know for sure what will be right looking back from the future."
"..."
"Anyway, it's getting late. If we stay longer, someone will surely take notice. Let's end today's meeting here. I'll contact you again."
Without hesitation, the chief turned his back and left the garden fountain.
Whoosh—
Cold wind blowing, rustling the bushes.
I stared blankly at the fountain, organizing my thoughts.
"Marriage, huh…"
It didn't take long to decide.
No, the decision was basically the same as the one I had already made at the dragon temple.
But…
"Since the viscount made such a strong move…"
To counter it, I would have to prepare a much stronger move myself.
"…Is that really the only way?"
For the first time in a while, I wished tomorrow wouldn't come.
The next morning, one hour before the royal meeting.
Because of the importance of the occasion, I woke early and roughly finished dressing.
Just about to step out—
Knock, knock, knock.
A visitor came early in the morning.
Thinking it might be some peddler or socialite like yesterday, I almost ignored it…
Knock, knock, knock!
The knocking grew louder with pauses.
'Who on earth is it?'
I decided to see who it was, grabbed the door, and opened it wide—there stood an unexpected guest.
"…Hyaak!"
A blue-haired woman let out a strange sound, surprised by the sudden door opening.
Dressed head to toe like 'I'm a noble,' but somehow her sleepy eyes gave off no dignity.
The marriage candidate to be mentioned in the upcoming meeting.
"Ragna…?"
"...!"
When our eyes met, Ragna flinched and quickly looked away.
I roughly understood why.
I felt similarly.
"..."
"..."
It felt strangely hard to meet eyes naturally.
So before the golden moment slipped away, I quickly said something.
"Long time no see, Ragna. I should've visited earlier, but I've been busy with all sorts of things."
"Yes… long time. And it's fine you didn't come. I've heard you've been busy."
"That's good then."
"..."
"…Would you like to come inside?"
I said it because I didn't want her to wait outside, but strangely she jumped back in surprise.
Seeing that reaction oddly…
"Oh, no! It's not like that…"
"Like what then?"
"Just! It would be troublesome if weird rumors spread about us going into the room…"
"Ah… I see."
The awkward silence I had tried to avoid hung between Ragna and me.
Thankfully, this time she was the first to break it.
"Well… actually, I came today because I have something to tell you in advance."
"Something for me?"
"Um…"
Ragna hesitated to speak, trailing off, but I caught the meaning from the mood.
"At the meeting… there might be some unexpected news. Please don't be too surprised. Bjorn Yandel, you and I are nobles, aren't we?"
"But?"
"Here, sometimes things proceed regardless of your own wishes… you know?"
She seemed to find it hard to say, so she rambled a bit.
I wanted to clear things up, but for the sake of what's to come, it's best to pretend I don't know for now.
"So what do you want to say?"
"I-I can't say right now. But my father has started making moves. So no matter what you hear at the meeting, please don't misunderstand…"
"Understood. No matter what is said at the meeting, I won't misunderstand."
"Ah! Of course, I don't mean I dislike it or anything! Got it?"
"Understood."
"Good… then see you later…"
She nodded quickly and vanished from the doorway.
I wondered if she really came alone—her aide, Hyunbyeol, was nowhere to be seen.
'Time to go.'
I checked the time, went out to the hall, and was led by a servant into the palace for the meeting.
'…They don't use a round table here.'
The room held a long rectangular table with almost all seats empty.
That's the tradition of royal meetings here.
Each participant is assigned a number, which tacitly becomes their rank.
And for me…
"This is the seat where Baron Yandel will attend the council today."
The seat furthest from the head seat.
After I sat and waited about two minutes, a noble entered…
Plop.
He sat directly across from me.
He was one rank higher, and after another two minutes, another arrived…
'What nonsense is this…'
They could've come all at once, but entering one by one every two minutes was maddening.
Extreme inefficiency.
'There are 50 total nobles attending…'
That meant the lowest-ranked nobles would have to wait nearly an hour and a half sitting there.
Though that humiliating lowest rank seat might be someone else's envy.
"..."
"..."
Anyway, they started filling the meeting room one by one, but the heavy silence remained.
I even tried to chat with a nearby noble out of boredom, but when I spoke, he jumped in surprise and stared straight ahead, so I gave up.
'Might as well catch some sleep.'
Half nodding off with my neck bent, time passed quickly, and nobles in the twenties started arriving.
And then…
'Who's that?'
Suddenly, a nobleman stopped walking and stared at me intently.
One, two, three, four…
Counting, he seemed to be ranked 27th in this meeting.
He looked at me, then—
"Pft."
He sneered meaninglessly and passed by my side.
Of course, I wasn't going to let that slide.
"Hey, wait a moment."
"…Hey?"
"Ah, sorry. I forgot your name."
"If that's true, then I'm glad to meet you. I'm Count Huytaylor."
"Glad to meet you, Count Huytaylor. But why did you laugh earlier?"
"…Is there a problem? I just smiled because I was happy to see the city's most famous hero."
Interpreted in noble terms, it meant he was glad to see me, who's recently popular, sitting in the lowest rank.
'What? Just an ordinary fool?'
Relieved, I nodded coolly.
"Oh, is that so? Then go ahead."
If he had some sinister scheme, I was ready to probe, but if not, fine.
Not worth the attention.
"Baron Yandel, as your senior, some advice—"
"Ah, I know."
"…You'd better drop that attitude here in the royal meeting. Or you'll get seriously hurt."
I nodded, and Count Humersigi gave me a look as if he'd seen all sorts of crazies before heading back to his seat.
Time passed.
Familiar figures began to appear.
Starting with Viscount Maxiland, the Prime Minister's right hand and ranked 25th.
"..."
He lightly nodded at me as our eyes met, then went to his seat.
Viscountess Ragna Peprok, ranked 21st.
She walked past without meeting my eyes and sat down coldly in 14th place, the chief.
"Glad to see you here."
Count Kaislan, ranked 11th, elder brother of Meland Kaislan and head of a large noble coalition.
"Haha, long time no see, Baron. Heard you've done great things this time too?"
Count Alminus, ranked 6th, an awkward relationship but now bought the title 'old friend' by taking a photo with me.
"And…"
"New holy births are always welcome. Remember there are always other choices."
Duke Kealunus, ranked 3rd, left a meaningful word and passed by after seeing me.
"..."
On the other hand, Marquis Terserion, ranked 2nd, sat haughtily without even a glance.
Oh, and the top-ranked seat is vacant.
That's the king's seat, which even the marquis acting as the king's proxy at events cannot occupy…
'Minus one means there are actually 49 members present.'
By the seating arrangement, Duke Kealunus and the Prime Minister sat facing each other at the head seats…
The marquis on the right rose from his seat.
"First, on behalf of His Majesty Martanux, I sincerely thank you all for attending despite your busy schedules."
With that greeting, the Prime Minister had all the nobles stand, then they all paid respects toward the vacant king's seat.
Like a salute to a national flag in Korea.
Since these are nobles, a stiff introduction followed.
The Noark invasion, the Viphron situation.
Discussing recent incidents and current political state, praising the nobles for their presence.
Celebrating the successful expedition to the labyrinth's first basement floor, saying it is all under Lapdonia's blessing.
After wasting time on unnecessary speeches—
"Now, let's begin with the first agenda item."
Finally, the first royal meeting began.
-x-X-x-
The Melbes Alliance of Different Races.
Why did they make such a fuss about having the right to attend the royal meeting there?
The reason became clear as soon as the meeting started.
"The first agenda is the invasion of the Noark forces."
That topic had been repeatedly mentioned at the species council, the Melbes assembly, and elsewhere.
But in the calm tone of the marquis, information leaked that nowhere else was known.
"The invasion occurred earlier than predicted, at the beginning of this month."
The royal family already knew about their invasion.
Of course, that doesn't mean they are all-knowing or omnipotent.
"However, as everyone knows, the plan for total annihilation was not carried out due to an unexpected variable."
'As everyone knows'… What do they mean by that? Are Barbarians not even considered people?
"…Annihilation plan?"
I murmured, tilting my head, and the marquis paused his speech as all nobles' eyes turned toward me.
Their gazes were varied.
'The lowest-ranked talking to the marquis mid-meeting?'
Some looked as if they couldn't believe the lowest-ranked member interrupted the marquis.
'Well, if he's an idiot, that's expected.'
Others, like Duke Kealunus and Count Alminus, who had firsthand experience with me, showed indifferent reactions, unsurprised by such behavior.
Including the marquis.
"Now that I think about it, Baron Yandel, this is your first meeting, so you might not know about the annihilation plan?"
The marquis replied casually to my muttering.
One of the gazes aimed at me widened — the very Count Hu-whatever who sneered earlier.
Did he expect the marquis to scold me for this?
Who knows. Not something to worry about.
"The annihilation plan was devised after learning that the Noark forces were targeting Viphron. They intended to trap them there and wipe them out in one strike."
"But it didn't go well, huh?"
"Unfortunately."
The marquis then diverted his gaze from me back to the crowd.
"The variable in this plan was the mysterious mage who appeared among the Noark forces."
Like the first day of school, but this time I was able to follow the story.
'If they say mysterious mage, it must be that person.'
The mage who activated the ancient magic circle in the underground fortress, teleporting tens of thousands at once and opening the portal connecting to the 7th floor outside the fortress walls.
"Besides that he's an old man, no further information on his identity has been obtained… Intelligence suspects he also tampered with the protective magic circle. He seems suspiciously skilled in ancient magic."
In summary, the royal family tried to trap the Noark scum in Viphron and destroy them at once, but the mysterious mage activated the protective magic circle and foiled the plan.
"Currently, they are searching for a way to disable the protective magic circle from outside, but many permissions have been stolen by that mage, so progress is slow."
If this is openly disclosed here, it means there's practically no way to get into Viphron.
'Should I see this as royal incompetence or the other side's prowess…?'
I don't know, but one thing's certain.
The royal family isn't made up of ordinary fools.
"The intelligence department believes the mysterious mage could also activate the dimensional plaza inside the closed Viphron. Therefore…"
The marquis paused and then said.
"Here, I officially propose the closure of the labyrinth."
Labyrinth closure.
Given the structure of this city-state called Lapdonia, this is an incredibly serious topic.
As soon as it was mentioned, Duke Kealunus responded eagerly.
"Indeed… if we close the labyrinth entirely, they will have no countermeasures."
Count Alminus followed.
"They will have to choose either to come out voluntarily or starve inside."
All of it was scripted.
These people probably weren't hearing this for the first time.
Normally, they would have shaped public opinion first, and then pass a nearly unanimous vote to decide on labyrinth closure.
But I'm a barbarian with no tact.
"Marquis, may I ask something?"
"Go ahead."
"Is it absolutely necessary to close the labyrinth itself?"
Count Humersigi, ranked 27th, couldn't hold back and snapped at me.
"Think about it. If there were other options, would the marquis be proposing closure?"
Not wrong, but I wasn't curious about whether other options existed.
I wanted to know why there was only this one way.
"Is that so?"
Ignoring Count Humersigi's words, I asked the marquis, who, though annoyed, kindly answered.
"The dimensional magic of the labyrinth is more complex than you imagine. I will give a brief explanation."
Brief, he said, but the story was long and dull.
But to summarize simply:
The labyrinth is the server.
The portal is the login method.
Here's the problem: if there's only the login method, the royal family has no way to control it…
'So they plan to close the server itself. Even if you have the login, you can't enter when the server is down.'
"Do you understand?"
"Somewhat. Thanks for explaining!"
With my curiosity satisfied, I stepped back and watched the meeting proceed.
They discussed possible backlash from explorers after closure.
What to do with explorers who can't pay taxes this year.
How long the closure would last.
Eventually, the marquis summarized.
"As of today, the labyrinth will be closed. Any reopening will be decided at future meetings. Those in agreement, please flip your coin."
What surprised me was that the voting was conducted publicly.
But it made sense.
There's no culture of anonymity, and secret ballots could easily be tampered with.
One by one, attendees flipped golden coins in front of their seats to show the royal emblem.
Almost unanimous approval.
Again, all eyes turned to me.
I was the only one who voted against.
"Baron Yandel, may I ask why you didn't flip your coin?"
"Closing the labyrinth will surely cause hardship. We are well off, so we won't starve no matter how long it's closed!"
"Hmm… So you oppose for the sake of the subjects?"
"In a way, yes."
Whether out of genuine curiosity or not, the marquis nodded coolly after hearing my answer.
"Then we'll move on to the second agenda."
The dull meeting resumed.
The meeting that began in the morning continued non-stop until evening.
There were breaks, but…
'What is this hardcore schedule?'
They only give time to do business, no separate meal times.
Is this the tradition of royal meetings?
"Haha, so everyone eats well before coming to these meetings."
"Why did such a tradition arise?"
"People who attend these meetings must be extremely busy. Since it's hard to gather, they try to minimize wasted time even if uncomfortable."
Hmm… If so, wouldn't it be more efficient to just say that plainly without beating around the bush?
Honestly, if barbarians held a royal meeting, it could be over by noon and they'd go have lunch.
"Eh, looks like the meeting is restarting. I'll go in."
Count Alminus, who chatted with me outside, left, and I hurriedly stuffed jerky in my mouth and entered.
The resumed meeting.
'Second agenda was about reconstruction in Districts 7 and 13; third about taxes; fourth about evil spirit incorporation…'
Oh, the evil spirit incorporation was mentioned then rejected after many votes—
"Now, the ninth agenda."
The marquis who led the meeting looked around and stopped his gaze on me.
Glancing sideways, I saw Ragna looking somewhat embarrassed, avoiding eye contact.
I immediately knew.
'Here it comes.'
The ninth agenda was the marriage proposal.
Specifically, mine and Ragna's.
"But before bringing up the ninth agenda, I ask your understanding. Some of the following may be personal matters."
"Hmm, personal matters?"
"If you want to differentiate, yes. But this is also a serious matter for the Kingdom of Lapdonia."
"Well, then we must hear it."
Duke Kealunus nodded after hearing the marquis, and no one dared to oppose.
'I bet these old guys already know what's coming and are just acting.'
Duke Kealunus and Marquis Terserion.
Their relationship is interesting.
Though rivals, when cooperation is needed, they have good back-and-forth.
"Baron Yandel, what are you thinking?"
"Nothing."
"Then I hope you listen carefully. Because you are the subject of the following discussion."
"Huh? Me?"
Feigning ignorance, I tilted my head, and the marquis gave a meaningful look and began his noble speech.
"Baron Yandel, everyone here recognizes how hard you work and how much you have achieved."
"..."
"But for the great Lapdonia royal family, it is a great loss for such a talent and family head to remain single."
"…So what is your point?"
"Isn't it time to find a partner and settle down? If you don't mind, we want to promote a marriage between you and Viscountess Peprok."
The moment those words came out, the room's atmosphere grew uneasy.
"…Huh!"
"Baron Yandel and Viscountess Peprok…?"
Apparently, many nobles were unaware of this marriage proposal.
"Viscount Peprok's family situation isn't much different from Yandel's. Legally the two families cannot become one, but marriage would bring great fortune to both you and the kingdom."
"..."
"That's my opinion, but how about you?"
Pressure weighed heavily in that short question.
The fact that the proposal was brought up here, not privately, was itself a form of pressure.
Anyway.
YES or NO.
As always, just two options.
If I accept, I come under the marquis's control and lose some autonomy.
If I refuse, I'll face countless obstacles.
But…
"Of course, I'm not asking for an immediate decision. When you've thought it through—"
There was no changing the decision I had already made.
Even thinking again, it was a dreadful decision…
'Damn it.'
But it had to be done.
"No!"
"…Huh?"
"I will not marry."
The moment I boldly rejected.
"Hmm…"
The marquis narrowed his eyes slightly.
His gaze looked like he was already scheming how to torment me.
So I quickly spoke.
"I will not marry anyone. Not Viscountess Peprok nor anyone else."
This was my final answer.
What the marquis feared was that the Yandel family would aggressively use marriage as a means for rapid growth.
I decided to counter with a vow of lifelong bachelorhood.
"I don't understand at all. So you intend to stay single forever?"
But the marquis didn't seem to believe me.
Not surprising.
Such declarations can be changed anytime according to my will…
'Do I really have to do this…?'
More definite action was necessary.
And I had prepared that action in advance.
But the thought alone was exhausting…
'Alright, let's do it.'
Steeling myself, I closed my eyes tightly.
And…
"Marquis!"
I shouted with ❖ Nоvеl𝚒ght ❖ (Exclusive on Nоvеl𝚒ght) all my might.
"Sorry, but I have no interest in women!"
For some reason.
No, I do have reasons, but whatever.
When I reluctantly opened my unwilling eyes slowly.
"...?"
"...?"
The room fell into a heavy silence as if time had stopped.
Time started flowing again, and shocked gazes and words were directed at me.
"No interest in women…?"
"Wait, do you mean…?"
"Disgusting."
Some didn't even hide their disgust.
I understood.
In this world, homosexuality is considered a sin.
Yeah… so…
"I don't like men!"
To clear the misunderstanding, I pulled out the doll I had prepared in the pocket dimension and showed it to everyone.
"I love this doll!"
"…Huh?"
"I'm even going to marry this doll!"
"…What?"
It had to be done.