The next morning, Snow and I offered our prayers at the church.
We did this to use up the experience points we had accumulated yesterday.
As a result, I leveled up to 16, and Snow reached level 17.
Our weapons were scheduled to be completed that night.
We both knew that without them, we would be wasting our efforts in the 26th floor.
Undecided on what to do until nightfall, Snow and I started heading back to the guild, “Epic Seeker.”
However, I stopped in my tracks when I saw a crowd gathered at the guild’s entrance.
I was sure there were no guild quests available today.
“What’s happening?”
As the Guild Master, I addressed the gathered people.
The eyes of everyone at the entrance turned towards me.
As our gazes met, I was astonished by the high levels of the people gathered. I could tell without using “Gaze” – the quality of the magic power radiating from them told me all I needed to know about their strength.
Perhaps it was due to my increased level and improved Dimensional Magic, but my understanding of ambient magic seemed to be growing.
Then, from the crowd, a man with exceptionally strong magic power stepped forward.
“That appearance… you are the Guild Master of the guild ‘Epic Seeker,’ aren’t you?”
“Y-yes. That’s correct?”
“Allow me to introduce myself. I am Elmiraud Sidd, the Guild Master of the guild ‘Supreme.’ It is a pleasure to meet you.”
Elmiraud Sidd, the man with great magic power, extended his hand towards me.
As I shook his hand, I used “Gaze” on him.
【Status】
Name: Elmiraud Sidd HP 200/201 MP 299/299 Class: Knight
Level 20
Strength 4.79 Stamina 2.81 Dexterity 4.12 Speed 7.29 Intelligence 7.19 Magic Power 18.09 Aptitude 1.67
Innate Skill: Elemental Magic 1.92
Acquired Skill: Magic Combat 1.88 Swordsmanship 0.89
He was undoubtedly a prodigy.
Possessing Elemental Magic as an innate skill and having an extraordinary amount of magic power.
Furthermore, his level and skills were high for his age, suggesting he had trained diligently from a young age.
He had shoulder-length blond hair casually swept back, and his most striking feature was his sharp, almond-shaped eyes. His noble attire and dignified demeanor gave him an overall impression of someone not to be trifled with.
“Um, I am Uzunami Aikawa. I am a novice who doesn’t know left from right, but I look forward to working with you.”
“You don’t know left from right, hmm… Well, that’s fine.”
After finishing the handshake, Siddharuku immediately stepped back.
I felt he was slightly displeased.
Perhaps I had committed some unintentional discourtesy. After all, I was a “Foreigner.” There was always a possibility of making mistakes.
As I turned to Snow to ask if there was an issue with my etiquette, I saw Snow wearing a grim expression.
“Lord Siddharuku…?”
She murmured his name, adding the honorific “Lord.” From this, I inferred he must be a person of considerable standing.
“It’s been a while, Snow. You can call me Elm, just like when we were at the academy.”
“No, this is not an academic setting.”
“We’re friends, aren’t we, Snow? There’s no problem.”
“Understood…”
From their conversation, I gathered that they had been classmates at the academy.
Since I was unsure how to handle someone so important, I decided to defer to Snow and took a step back.
Siddharuku didn’t say anything, but he watched me.
However, Snow cast a disapproving glance at me for stepping back. Though she said nothing, I understood she was telling me, “Don’t run away.”
I replied with my eyes, “Do your best,” and gave a cheerful smile.
“So, Snow, I came to “Epic Seeker” today with a request. As fellow academy alumni, would you be willing to lend us your strength?”
Siddharuku continued to address Snow, bypassing me, the Guild Master.
“A request?”
“Yes. I heard that ever since you returned, “Epic Seeker” has been achieving remarkable success. They say you even finished a national job in a single day due to your excessive success. We would like your cooperation with such a feat.”
“N-no, I didn’t do anything—”
“I know you are a humble woman. Unlike those dullards, I truly appreciate your abilities. Without you, it would be impossible to finish a guild job in a single day.”
Siddharuku seemed to have a good eye for talent, understanding Snow’s usefulness.
“No, I truly didn’t do anything. It’s all thanks to the Palinkron Legacy and our new Guild Master.”
“Hmm… Palinkron, I understand that much. But you’re saying that man lacking any presence is useful?”
Lacking any presence…?
I knew I was being disparaged, but I didn’t know how to respond.
Just as I was about to nod in agreement, thinking he was right about my lack of presence, Snow glared at me.
I could tell from her expression that she was silently telling me, “Show some presence right now. Show some presence!” But it wasn’t something I could do on command. I gave a small shake of my head.
Seeing this, Snow puffed out her cheeks slightly and turned back to Siddharuku.
“Kanami is an excellent Master. Without a doubt.”
“Without a doubt? That’s surprising. It’s been a while since I’ve seen you, the cautious one, make such a definitive statement. Do you really mean this man is that capable?”
“Yes, he is the Master of “Epic Seeker”… More importantly, he is the only partner I acknowledge.”
Snow clearly called me her partner.
It was the first time I had heard such words from the usually reticent Snow. I felt embarrassed and scratched my cheek. If I looked closely, Snow’s face seemed to be slightly flushed as well.
Siddharuku appeared slightly displeased by this exchange.
“…Very well. If Snow vouches for you so highly, I will deem you worthy of consideration. This will also be convenient for our cooperation request.”
“A cooperation request…?”
“Yes. A position has become vacant in the plan for the Laura Via country that was scheduled for today. We intend to ask the currently well-regarded guild “Epic Seeker” to fill it.”
“…Please tell me the details of your plan.”
“The plan is simple. A few days ago, we will have Laura Via’s forces maintain the ‘Seidō’ on the 10th and 20th floors of the labyrinth, which have become mere rooms.”
“Construction of the ‘Seidō’… You intend to place new barriers in rooms that have lost their guardians and magic?”
“As expected of you, Snow. You’re quick to grasp things.”
The 10th floor previously had raging flames that were a hindrance, so the ‘Seidō’ was only rudimentary. I recalled there was a narrow Magic Stone Line connecting the 9th and 11th floors.
They apparently planned to rebuild this properly and construct barriers to avoid monsters.
Guild “Supreme” had come to request our cooperation for this task.
“I will confirm with the Master.”
“…Ah, I understand.”
Snow approached me as I stepped back and took my hand—then pulled me further back. Once she confirmed Siddharuku couldn’t hear us, she stepped on my foot.
“Ouch!”
“…Kanami, why did you step back and leave me alone?”
“No, you’re his academy friends, right? I thought I was being considerate.”
“…I see. That was the worst kind of meddling. Next, why didn’t you say anything in response?”
“You mean about the ‘lack of presence’ comment? That’s not something worth retorting. I understand I might have seemed looked down upon, but I don’t really mind. Besides, it’s true I lack presence.”
“…Kanami has presence!”
“N-no, I don’t think I do…?”
I had never been told I had presence before now.
This was the first time Snow had said it.
Moreover, presence was such an ambiguous concept that I didn’t really care about being disparaged with it.
“…Regardless, it’s problematic to be looked down upon. Kanami is our representative, so you should retort a little.”
“That’s not my principle. I dislike resorting to verbal attacks just because I don’t want to be looked down upon, or trying to satisfy my vanity for the sake of pride… If I demonstrate through my actions, people will naturally understand. I’m fine with that.”
“…Tsk. Still so naive. Anyway, I cannot stand seeing Kanami being looked down upon right now!”
“Th-thank you. But isn’t it enough to prove them wrong later?”
“………”
Upon hearing my stance, Snow fell silent.
It wasn’t that she had no response.
Her facial expression clearly indicated she was not convinced. Snow was definitely dissatisfied with my complacent way of thinking. She had simply given up on convincing me.
“—Snow, are you finished yet?”
Siddharuku called out, seeing us engaged in a long conversation.
Snow took a deep breath and regained her composure.
“…Haa. So, Kanami. What about helping with the ‘Seidō’ construction?”
“We will cooperate to the best of our ability. That is the duty of Laura Via’s guild.”
“…I see.”
Upon hearing my answer, Snow returned to Siddharuku’s side.
“The Master has agreed to your request for cooperation.”
“That’s good. Thank you, Snow.”
“…You should thank the Master.”
Snow retorted, sounding tired.
Her tone was reverting back to its usual lazy demeanor.
“Of course. I am also grateful to the Guild Master and members of “Epic Seeker.” Now, let’s discuss the plan’s details immediately. Time is short.”
“…Yes. Then, let us discuss it within “Epic Seeker”.”
Snow ushered Siddharuku and his party inside the building.
As I watched them, I was thinking about something unrelated to work.
It seemed that when important people were around, Snow didn’t slack off. I began to ponder how this could be leveraged for future dungeon exploration.
As I was slowly contemplating, Snow called out to me loudly, and I hurried into “Epic Seeker.”
***
After a brief discussion, the ‘Seidō’ construction plan led by the nation of Laura Via commenced that very day.
Only a small group participated in this plan.
One government official, three magic engineers to reinforce the ‘Seidō,’ and several elites from various guilds as escorts.
The participating guilds were all major guilds of Laura Via. Consequently, the individual abilities of their elite members were quite high.
And at the pinnacle of them stood Elmiraud Sidd.
The influence of Guild “Supreme,” his personal strength, and his family status were all top-class.
He was, in fact, the one orchestrating today’s exploration.
Even the officials dispatched by the country seemed to defer to Siddharuku. According to what I heard, the Siddharuku family was of royal bloodline in Laura Via and was a prominent noble family within the five allied nations.
“—Oh, really? So, he’s royalty? No, a Duke, perhaps?”
“Kanami, you didn’t even know that?”
Teiri, a skilled mage from Guild “Epic Seeker,” who was walking beside me, looked astonished.
Incidentally, the members from Guild “Epic Seeker” participating were the three of us: Snow, Teiri, and I. I had wanted to bring Volzak along too, but the request came too suddenly.
At the rear of the long queue progressing through the labyrinth, I was chatting with Teiri.
“I apologize. I come from a very rural area…”
“Well, that’s understandable… That’s why Teiri and Volzak are here. If you don’t understand anything, please don’t hesitate to ask.”
“Yes. I think I’ll be free today, so I’ll ask you about various things.”
“Free, you say… We are, after all, inside a labyrinth.”
“With such strong members, I believe we’ll be free all the way to the 20th floor.”
“Even so, a labyrinth can claim lives if you’re careless.”
“I’m constantly watching. I won’t let anyone die.”
“…You don’t need to help people from other guilds, you know. In situations like this, it’s everyone’s own responsibility.”
“I understand that… But if someone were to be in mortal danger, I think my body would naturally move on its own. Even if it were someone not from “Epic Seeker,” I believe I would.”
“Haa, you’re too soft. If you keep doing that, you’ll run out of lives in no time!”
“Indeed… Snow tells me that often too…”
But that’s how it should be.
If I don’t help those within my reach, I know I’ll be crushed by regret. As someone born and raised in another world, I must live by those values. I will help those I can, as much as I am able. I had already made that resolve.
—The moment I vowed this, I felt a strange sense of unease.
It was as if I had fundamentally misunderstood something, a peculiar unease.
…Was that truly the resolve I had made?
………
No answer came.
With a slight sense of apprehension, I continued walking through the labyrinth.
The monsters that appeared were easily dealt with by the people ahead of me.
My job was practically just walking.
Snow had been invited by Siddharuku to the front.
Through “Dimension,” I could see her struggling to resist the assertive commands of Siddharuku.
“So, Kanami, what did you want to ask about?”
“Well, I’d like to know more about nobles. I didn’t realize the Siddharuku I met today was such an important person…”
“Let’s see, not knowing about the Siddharuku family is a problem. I’ll tell you from the top.”
And so, Teiri’s lecture on the nobles of this other world began.
Teiri cleared her throat and spoke like a teacher.
“First, the Royal family. Although the authority of the royalty has been waning recently, they are still at the very top. However, in Fuziaze alone, the Church holds a higher position.”
“The Church…”
“In Fuziaze, the Royal family’s power is weak due to its unique system. When you go there, be more cautious of the Church than the Royal family.”
“Understood. So, cultures differ from country to country.”
“Next are the nobles. However, only the higher-ranking nobles hold influence. Mid-level nobles sometimes have lower status than ordinary merchants.”
“Yes, it seems there are various levels of nobility.”
“And among them, the family you must be wary of is the Siddharuku family I mentioned earlier. They are one of the so-called Four Great Noble Families. For now, heading or bowing to Helvishein, Siddharuku, Walker, and Aleis is always the correct course of action.”
“…I’ve memorized them. I will not oppose those four names.”
“Is that so… Then, while you’re at it, please be a little kinder to Snow Walker as well.”
“Huh? I am being kind.”
“Snow must feel like she wants you to protect her, especially now. She is a girl, after all.”
“…I am protecting her (mentally) through “Dimension” right now, though?”
“No, I don’t mean that… Haa, never mind. Let’s move on. I’ll tell you about dangerous nobles, powerful families, and influential merchants…”
“Please do.”
Teiri was likely implying that I should allow Snow to get away from Siddharuku.
It was obvious at a glance that Snow disliked Siddharuku. She wanted to slack off, but she couldn’t do that with someone of his high rank. Their compatibility was, to say the least, terrible.
However, I believed this would lead to Snow’s growth. It would be ideal if this became an opportunity to improve her habitual laziness. Therefore, unless something truly serious happened, I had no intention of intervening in this matter.
As Teiri and I spoke, the party continued to advance through the floors.
Since we were generally following the ‘Seidō,’ there were few battles. However, due to the large number of people, more monsters were being drawn in than usual. With a long queue like ours, it was likely easier for monsters to attack.
I was aware of approaching enemies through “Dimension.” However, with monsters of Rank 1-10 being handled by individuals close to Level 20, my intervention wasn’t necessary.
I was merely keeping a distant watch to prevent any accidents.
Conversely, Siddharuku was constantly issuing orders to someone. He seemed to have a bold personality and a tendency to take charge. He was the opposite type of person from Snow, yet for some reason, he was very fond of her.
Puzzled, I subtly asked Teiri about it.
“—Her family background is good, but she lacks assertiveness. Snow doesn’t assert herself, you see. For him, a woman from a good family like Snow, who is easy to handle, must be ideal.”
“Snow lacks assertiveness…? She always complains a lot to me!”
“Is that so? Snow is the type who, while not exerting her full effort, silently completes the minimum required tasks.”
“No, she always pushes her paperwork onto me. And she always complains!”
“Oh my, really… She must like you. It was the same with her older brother, Glen.”
“Is that so…?”
“It makes me nostalgic. When Glen was in “Epic Seeker” years ago, I was at the very bottom of the guild. But I still remember those times. Snow was always complaining from the sidelines to Glen, who was talented but timid.”
“Oh, you seem to have gotten along well. Snow said you didn’t get along, so I guess that was her way of being coy.”
“Mmm, we were close back then. But if you ask me about now, it’s a bit complicated. Both Glen and Snow changed after a certain incident… I don’t think they’re as close as they used to be…”
“A certain incident…?”
“You should ask them directly about that. If I were to talk about it, it would spoil the dramatic story of Kanami and Snow.”
“Dr-drama…”
I had thought Teiri was one of the more serious members of “Epic Seeker,” but it seems she was indeed a part of “Epic Seeker.” She was a dreamer, and somewhat odd.
“That story is very important. Instead, I’ll tell you some other interesting things. —Earlier, you asked why Elmiraud Sidd was paying attention to Snow Walker. The real reason is much simpler.”
“Uh, huh…”
“The truth is, the two of them are engaged!!”
Teiri shared this new fact with me, sounding genuinely delighted as if acting out a play.
No, shouldn’t this be something I should hear from them directly…?
“Engaged…?”
“Oh, you’re not surprised? I thought you’d be more shocked or flustered…”
It seemed my reaction wasn’t to her liking.
I was beginning to understand. She seemed to be looking for the hero and heroine of a story in me and Snow.
“No, they are both among the Four Great Nobles, close in age, and attended the same academy. Considering Siddharuku’s behavior, it wasn’t an impossible scenario.”
“I see. So, what do you think? How do you feel hearing that they are engaged? Tell your older sister.”
“No, nothing in particular. I think it’s a good match, though…?”
“W-w-what… Are you serious, Kanami…?”
“I believe their interests align. …Besides, judging by his appearance, Mr. Siddharuku doesn’t seem like a bad person. People like him are harsh to outsiders, but kind to their own. He’s full of talent and seems ambitious, so Snow’s future will surely be secure.”
“…N-no. You really are a bit strange.”
“Eh? Was there something strange about my answer? Even if there was, I don’t think I should be told that by you.”
When I presented my objective assessment of their potential match to Teiri, she awkwardly touched her head, asking if I was alright. However, I didn’t think I should be lectured by the dreamy Teiri, who seemed to be stuck in her youth.
“I don’t think I should be told that either… Listen, Kanami, don’t you like Snow?”
“I don’t know. We haven’t known each other for very long.”
“Even so, you must have some feelings, likes or dislikes, right? So, what is it? Do you like my Snow, or not?”
“No, I don’t have the luxury to think about such things… I’m working tirelessly for my sister…”
“Bringing up your sister means you really are a sis-con, just like Palinkron said.”
“How did you jump to that conclusion?”
“If you don’t want to be labeled a sis-con, answer honestly right now.”
Teiri pressed me with a serious expression.
This was the first time I had seen Teiri so earnest. Indeed, everyone from “Epic Seeker” was somehow strange. Their seriousness manifested in peculiar ways.
Honestly, I didn’t mind being labeled a sis-con.
In truth, my sister was the most important person in the world to me. Without a doubt.
However, to calm Teiri down, I decided to answer.
“Yes. I like Snow. She’s a beautiful girl.”
“It feels unpleasant to hear you say that so casually.”
“Then what should I do…?”
“Hmm. Was Kanami always this… dry?”
“Am I… dry…?”
I tilted my head at the unfamiliar word.
I didn’t consider myself a dry person. In fact, I thought I was quite emotional. Or at least, I used to be—but reflecting on it, the previous exchange was indeed a bit dry. My attitude towards Snow was cold.
Was I really this indifferent and rational…?
This was just like how I acted when I was stressed.
I knew I tended to become cold and distant when I was under pressure.
But now, I should be at ease.
I had everything I needed right now…
Yet, why was I…
I forced a smile at Teiri while holding my aching head.
After that, we continued to exchange such trivial conversations, passing the time.
Although a few monsters attacked along the way, they were no match for us.
We reached the 10th floor without any major incidents.
Of course, it took more than twice the usual time.
Despite heading straight there, it took over ten hours.
Then, the construction began, with some taking naps and others maintaining a watch.
I took advantage of the spare time to approach the “Connection” in a corner of the room. It was covered with an inconspicuous cloth, and due to the labyrinth’s darkness, no one noticed it.
As the construction was primarily focused in the center of the room, it seemed no one was attempting to go to the corners. Relieved, I returned to my duties.
