Chapter 85

Chapter 85

The atmosphere was as chilling as a sweeping gale. He had said hed vouch for everyone, but the truth was, we knew absolutely nothing about Baron Jorge.

...Even if you say you vouch. What basis do you have for trust?

A man with a surly demeanor shrugged his shoulders.

We may share the commonality of being players and have aligned goals, but you... this is truly the first time weve met you guys. Is there any trust to speak of between us?

Isnt trust something thats built up over time?

Baron Jorge, unfazed, then turned towards the castle and gave a signal.

Thomas!

Yes, Lord Baron!

Following the barons signal, men dressed in winter gear emerged from the castle, moving in orderly steps.

They were shouldering thick logs, likely the materials filled room William Smith had mentioned earlier.

I do have an eye for people. Players, you said? You are... strong. And free. I mistook you for a mercenary group at first glance.

Baron Jorge waited until the man called Thomas arrived, then continued.

But, you see. Didnt you say earlier about repairing the castle walls and reinforcing the gates?

...Yes, we did.

Does anyone here know how to do that? No. Has anyone ever lived in a castle before? I have spent my entire life in one.

Of course, with a hundred people gathered, there might be one or two with some knowledge. But the vast majority would not know.

They merely thought it involved blocking the gate with heavy objects and replacing old stones with ones found nearby.

Hmm.

Baron Jorge glanced over our reactions and then nodded slightly.

Baron Jorges domain lies in the mountains, a land ill-suited for farming and plagued by unfavorable geographical features. Fortunately, a sizeable iron mine within the domain ensures that livelihoods are sustained.

Thud!

A hefty wooden plank is placed upon the snow.

Being a miner is a life-risking occupation, so we resort to using slaves... In a place where iron is abundant, what else would one do? Blacksmiths selling weapons are in overwhelming majority. Due to the dense forests, some find work as carpenters.

The man who brought the plank had broad shoulders and thick forearms, his physique not standing out among the players, thanks to their enhanced condition through the status window.

So... Let us handle the fortification of the castle, and you all can take on the exploration. Wouldnt that be sufficient aid?

...

It... helps. The thick arms of the men were more reassuring than any words could be.

Yet, there remained an issue.

But... What if monsters appear?

The woman with a protruding jaw, seen earlier, scowled and challenged.

Youre probably better at repairing the castle walls than us. But what happens if monsters attack from outside? Or if they emerge from within the castle? Are we expected to risk our lives to protect you then?

...

Baron Jorges expression hardened slightly.

...Among those who have come to this place, there are about 10 soldiers. Thomas here is a knight. But... Yes. That might not be much help to you.

He glanced momentarily towards the direction of his people in the castle, then back to the players.

We will ensure our own safety. If we find ourselves in danger, you need not assist. Its fine to divide and act separately. However, the castle must remain accessible to us. That is the entirety of my cooperation condition.

If we end up sharing the castle, we might inevitably find ourselves in situations where we have to help you...

Now, now. Calm down.

While calming the woman, I signaled to Baron Jorge.

Let us discuss this among ourselves and get back to you. How about in that room next to the stairs we saw earlier?

...Very well. Thomas! Move the planks near the main gate!

Yes, Lord Baron!

Awe [A] -Tribute to your greatness. Fear of the incomprehensible.

...Dont know. But he seems really strong, so lets just listen to what he says.

The stares from behind were sharp, but surprisingly, it didnt bother me.

...

I passionately argued that we must utilize Baron Jorge.

But upon reflection, I was also utilizing the players. Unhesitatingly using people as a means to my ends, for my regression.

To them, I attached no great importance.

...After clearing the fourth floor, I might need to take a break.

**

So, whats the decision?

Well be counting on you.

Ha-ha, were counting on you as well.

Baron Jorge and I exchanged handshakes. Yet, not a muscle moved in my smile.

Perhaps, it was to be expected. I had no intention of giving my heart to others.

One must be cautious of underestimating others, but getting too close is equally risky. The mission of the fourth floor is survival, and countless individuals will die.

...If someone close to me were to die a horrible death before my eyes, what would become of my mental state? I must always be on guard.

Hence, I had no intention of becoming close to anyone on the fourth floor. Maintaining a suitable distance while clearing the floor was my current goal.

Alright, then we should discuss the specifics. How do you plan to manage the patrol of the walls? We can take care of it, but

The players will handle it. Given our superior physical abilities, our visibility range will also differ.

Good. Now lets talk about repairing the walls.

Since most of your people are blacksmiths, I would like to request weapon maintenance.

I also want to discuss what well do in case of any unfortunate incidents between the players and your people.

Baron Jorge and I discussed various potential scenarios, establishing rules one by one.

As we exchanged thoughts for about 30 minutes.

Flick.

Either the oil ran out, or a gust of wind blew, but a torch hanging on the wall flickered and went out.

There were no windows in the room, so darkness naturally descended.

Ah, just a moment, please.

But shortly after.

Whoom.

A glowing orb appeared in Baron Jorges palm, illuminating the room brightly.

...Magic?

Ah, I am a third-tier mage. Its not a power Ive mentioned since its not particularly helpful... but please, dont take it the wrong way.

...

My mind raced faster than at any point since entering the fourth floor.

A mage. Someone who can manipulate mana.

Baron.

The second floor. Baron Lichte.

The Flash Orb.

An S-rank trait, dormant in my status window because I lacked the knowledge to manipulate mana.

Lets make a deal.

I had no intention of getting close to anyone on the fourth floor.

But theres always an exception to every rule.

End of Chapter -

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