Surviving The Game As A Barbarian Novel 2025 - Chapter 124, 125, 126
C124, 125, 126
Chapter 124: Veteran (3)
First, we briefly exchange introductions.
As Lee Hansu, not Bjorn Yandel.
“I’m Lee Hansu. I’m twenty-nine years old.”
“You have the same last name as me, hyungnim. I’m Lee Baekho. I was twenty-three years old.”
“Twenty-three years o?”
“Well… actually, it’s been over ten years since I came here.”
“Oh, I see…”
I’m speechless.
I had a feeling from the luxurious chat room skin, but over ten years since he came to this world?
How pitiful.
“Wait a minute, then you’re older than me—”
“Hyungnim! Stop with that bullshit! I’m going to go back. So we should go by our real-world age!”
“Uh… well, if that’s what you want.”
As a member of a Confucian society where age is a virtue, there’s no reason to stop him from voluntarily becoming the younger brother.
Whew, at least the family hierarchy is sorted out.
“Anyway, hyungnim, I’m sorry, but can I ask you for a favor?”
“A favor?”
“Well… it’s a simple test. I’m pretty sure you’re the real deal… but I still have to check.”
“No, just tell me what it is.”
“I’ll say something, and you just tell me what comes to mind first. Ah, don’t worry. It’s a question that any Korean couldn’t get wrong.”
So it’s a kind of Korean test.
Although it’s a bit embarrassing for him to say it himself, it seems like there have been some people who tried to freeload by pretending to be Korean because he’s doing well here.
If that’s the case…
“Then shall we begin…?”
“Go ahead.”
I nod, and he takes a deep breath and closes his eyes tightly. I didn’t think it was a big deal, but he’s making me nervous.
Of course, as he said, the quiz itself was easy.
“Kimchi?”
“…Stew?”
“Ox head?”
“Gukbap.”
“Saudi?”
“Arabia.”
“Soldier’s Creed.”
“…Our determination. And I was a public service worker.”
“Ah… anyway, this is the last one.”
Lee Baekho catches his breath and looks at me with a serious expression.
I’m starting to think maybe the questions were all jokes until…
…Lee Baekho opens his mouth.
“Lee Wan-yong?”
“Son of a… bitch, you crazy bastard.”
The moment the curses slip out…
…I’m frozen stiff by a strange aura.
Lee Baekho’s gaze, which has become cold, is directed at me.
As if everything he showed me until now was an act.
“I believe you. You’re a real Korean.”
What the hell is this guy talking about?
____________________
Lee Baekho.
A Korean player who was dragged here on the day he was discharged from the military and has lived in this world for over ten years.
He seems like a nice guy…
‘But does this guy also have a problem with his head?’
I can’t help but narrow my eyes.
But after hearing his excuse, I can understand.
“Ah, sorry for speaking informally. It’s a line I prepared for when someone passes the test. I didn’t expect it to take over three years…”
Even I missed having this kind of conversation, and I thought I was far from feeling such emotions.
Besides, when this guy first came here, there wouldn’t have even been a community like Ghostbusters.
It’s an environment perfect for ruining someone’s personality.
“So what’s your name, hyung?”
“I already told you.”
“Not that, I mean the name you use here. I need to know that so I can help you. Koreans are all about loyalty and camaraderie, aren’t we?”
“Thanks for the thought, but no thanks.”
I chuckle and shake my head.
Lee Baekho looks at me as if he really doesn’t understand.
«Why won’t you tell me? If you just tell me your name, you can live without worrying about taxes.»
His voice is filled with confidence.
It seems like he’s already reached that level of status here.
But my answer is the same.
«If I ask you in return, would you tell me your name?»
«Uh, well, even if you’re my hyung, that’s a bit…»
«It’s the same for me.»
Did he finally realize that I’m different from ordinary newbies? Lee Baekho asks with much more interest than before,
«Hyung, what multiplier did you clear it on?»
«What about you?»
«10x.»
10x?
Didn’t the founder of Ghostbusters clear it on 15x?
As I look at him with a surprised expression, he scratches his short hair.
«Even 10x is nothing. It’s like I cleared it using cheats. That’s why I still don’t know much even though 10 years have passed. Ha, if I had known, I would have just played the original.»
Since he’s a guy who has survived in this world for over 10 years, his mindset is definitely different from the newbies I met in the newbie chat room.
«So, what about you, hyung?»
I contemplate for a moment and then answer,
«I cleared it on 10x too.»
«Ah, really?»
I was a bit worried, but Lee Baekho readily believes me.
«Yeah, this is what a Korean should be like.»
«What?»
«When you play games, you’re a Korean, right?»
I wonder if his national pride is a bit too strong…
But I don’t bother nitpicking.
He’s a pitiful guy. I should be more understanding and comforting.
«Yeah, you’re right.»
«Right? Ha, I’m so frustrated. If there was only a Korean patch, there would have been at least a few people who cleared the original version…»
It seems like Lee Baekho’s national pride has become stronger from being surrounded by foreigners.
«Ah, hyung… should I give you some GP?»
«It would be nice to get some, but I’m not going to cash them out anyway. I have plenty of ways to earn them.»
«Tsk, your GP will just keep piling up like mine, hyung.»
Excluding his personality, Lee Baekho and I are similar in many ways.
He doesn’t reveal his identity easily, and although he has a frivolous personality, he seems cautious in his actions.
Well, that’s probably why he’s survived for so long.
«Hmm… then there’s nothing I can do for you.»
«It’s fine, I didn’t come here expecting anything anyway. Let’s just chat sometimes.»
«Keuh… hyungnim…!»
Does he feel like he’s finally met a fellow countryman?
Lee Baekho wipes away his non-existent tears and sobs.
Of course, it doesn’t last long.
«Hyungnim, if you have any questions, please ask. I need to do at least that much to save face.»
His mood swings are so extreme.
It’s hard to keep up with his energy.
Anyway, since he said that, I ask him all sorts of questions to clear my doubts.
However, this guy isn’t all-knowing either.
“Ah… well… I’m actually in seclusion, so I’m not that up-to-date on recent information.”
“Seclusion?”
“Yes, it’s a bit hard to explain in detail. If you want to get the latest information, I’ll introduce you to a chat room. It’s called ‘Watchers of the Round Table’… there’s a kind of club made by chuunibyou guys.”
The chat room Lee Baekho told me about is a community for veteran players, run secretly and requiring an invitation code to enter…
“Don’t worry, your nickname and face are all hidden there… I heard that if you go there and don’t know anything, you’ll get kicked out after getting beaten up… but since you cleared the 10x version, you don’t have to worry about that…”
He explains everything to me in detail as if he’s sending his little brother off on a field trip.
It’s quite long-winded, but it’s all useful information, so I listen quietly without interrupting.
“Hyung, then I’ll be going now. See you later.”
“You’re already leaving?”
“Ah, I forgot to tell you. The pill I took was an early version, so I can only stay here for an hour.”
…Is this what they call a generation gap?
I suddenly feel like I would be able to relate even if he started complaining about ‘back in my day’. After all, he seems to have lived a much harder life than me.
“Hyung, you have to come back next time, okay?”
“Yeah, see you later.”
“If there are any bastards who treat you badly in the city, be sure to tell me.”
“Okay…”
“Ah, and also—”
“Enough, just go. We can talk more when we meet again, can’t we?”
“Ah, right… next time… yes, hyung! See you next time!”
He leaves with an innocent smile after looking at me with an anxious expression.
So I also leave the chat room.
And as he instructed, I enter the code in the chat room search bar and join ‘Watchers of the Round Table’.
[It’s not the time to enter.]
[OPEN 03:00 ~ 03:10]
Oh, Baekho didn’t tell me about this.
There’s no choice but to kill time by browsing the exchange and other boards for now.
And when the clock in the lower left corner of the monitor reaches 3:00 AM, I try entering again.
[New member verified.]
[Welcome to the Watchers of the Round Table.]
[This gathering guarantees complete anonymity…]
Messages that Lee Baekho told me about flash through my mind…
And when I open my eyes…
Flash-!
…I’m in a customization room.
A room filled with all sorts of clothes and accessories.
I wonder if I really need to hide my identity this much with Lee Hansu’s body…
But it’s better to follow the rules.
I scan the room and choose some ordinary items as if I’m cosplaying.
A slim-fit navy blue suit.
‘Masks are mandatory, so I have to wear one.’
For reference, there are various masks that fill an entire wall, and many of them are empty to prevent overlaps.
Creak.
Anyway, I randomly grab a mask and put it on, and the door opens automatically.
A long red carpet stretches ahead as if guiding me.
As I walk slowly, observing the surroundings…
…I see a large round table. There are dozens of seats, but only four people are seated.
Thud.
The people who were chatting among themselves as if they’re acquainted, all shut their mouths and stare at me as soon as I arrive.
“…….”
A heavy silence falls.
So this is a veteran player community…
Geez, their gazes are intimidating.
Don’t they know that newbies are supposed to be cherished and protected?
“Oh, it’s a mask I’ve never seen before?”
The Yellow Clown mask is the first to speak, and a woman wearing a fox mask asks in a sharp voice,
“How did you get in here? We haven’t accepted new members for over a year.”
Oh, I didn’t know that.
“Tell us quickly. Who you are, and who recommended you.”
Well, it’s not a problem since I prepared an answer to this question.
“You have to answer truthfully. This is that kind of place.”
Just like this woman said, a special skin is applied in this space. If you lie, your mask breaks, and you’re immediately banned from the chat room.
However, there’s one exception.
You can lie as much as you want before the meeting officially begins.
‘The fact that everyone is just watching silently means that they’re all in cahoots, or they’re just curious about what kind of person I am.’
I understand the saying, ‘always take a strong approach during your first encounter’.
It must be advice based on hard-earned experience.
Therefore, although I don’t want to…
…I decide to follow the line and acting that Lee Baekho suggested.
“Uh, me, me, me…?”
I first act like a newbie…
“Ye, you’re ri—”
…and then deliver a counter punch while they’re smirking.
“Your mom recommended me.”
Geez, I heard everything from that Sergeant Lee, and they’re still trying to exploit newbies.
———————————-
Chapter 125: Veteran (4)
People often say that humans are social animals.
Whoever said that first made a very apt analogy.
Although they might not be as primal as beasts, humans also judge each other based on first impressions.
To be respected, you need to avoid being underestimated.
Especially if you’re a transfer student who’s joining in the middle of the semester.
“What… what did you just…?”
The Fox Mask asks back as if she misheard.
The other masked figures just watch with interest.
It’s a kind of initiation ceremony.
My first impression will be determined based on how I act here.
Therefore—
“Why don’t you say it again?”
I look at the Fox Mask, who is glaring at me with a menacing aura, and firmly engrave it in her mind so there’s no misunderstanding.
“The one who recommended me to this place is your mo—”
“What the hell is wrong with this guy?!”
Crazy bastard, lunatic, stubborn fool, and so on.
No matter what I hear, it’s better than giving them the impression that I’m weak.
However, there’s one thing I didn’t expect.
“Hey, you.”
The moment a fierce light shoots out from the slits of the Fox Mask…
‘…This is a strange feeling.’
I feel a tingling sensation on my skin from the clear murderous intent.
Not a metaphor, but literally.
My heart pounds, and goosebumps appear as I feel a threat to my life.
How is this possible in a world where physical force doesn’t even exist?
Fortunately, I know about this phenomenon.
‘So this is that technique.’
It’s the first time I’ve experienced it myself, but it’s definitely the technique that Lee Baekho told me about earlier.
Something that can only be used within Ghostbusters, the spiritual world where thoughts and intentions have power.
He said it’s a useless trick, but it’s perfect for scaring newbies.
“Are you going to say it again? The same thing?”
The Fox Mask asks me once more, increasing the density of her killing intent. I even think I see a cold sneer behind her mask.
Therefore…
“I, I, I…”
…I stutter again.
Smirk.
I hear laughter.
It’s not from the Fox Mask, but from the others.
They must find it amusing that a newbie who was acting all high and mighty is now backing down.
“Why can’t you say it? You were doing so well earlier.”
Is she really pissed off?
She shows no intention of letting it slide as her killing intent intensifies.
Of course, it’s not a problem.
“No, it’s, it’s no, not that… I, I…”
“Speak. Clearly, without missing a single word.”
“Alright, whatever.”
I decided to stop acting like an idiot.
“The one who recommended me to this place is your mom. So what? Do you have a problem with that?”
“Wh… what…?”
The Fox Mask looks bewildered at my sudden change in attitude.
“No, he’s clearly under the influence of my intent? How…”
Instead of answering, I first pick my ear with my pinky finger, which has been itchy since earlier.
It seems like the others have already figured out what’s going on.
“This is certainly an interesting situation.”
“Newbie, enough with the games, it’s a bit too much.”
“Although it’s impressive, that kind of attitude will only make enemies. Lion.”
I click my tongue as I hear their respective comments.
Interesting guy, arrogant guy, pathetic guy.
That’s all there is to it, their evaluation of my act. Geez, I even put in effort to manage my image with acting.
‘Right, this isn’t even worth being surprised about.’
Come to think of it, it’s only natural.
This is a veteran player’s club.
It’s impossible to expect special treatment just because I endured one attack of killing intent.
“How dare you mock me…?”
The Fox Mask, who belatedly realized that I was acting like an idiot, shows the most intense reaction, but…
…my first impression would still be just an annoying guy.
Therefore, I close my eyes tightly and recall the conversation I had with Lee Baekho.
[You want me to hit you with killing intent? Eh, no way. If I do that and something goes wrong, you might develop a mental illness. Since this uses intent, the stronger your mental strength, the stronger the effect becomes…]
The power of killing intent is proportional to your mental strength.
For reference, by mental strength here, he doesn’t mean the stat, but actual mental strength.
[That’s why I said it’s only for veteran players. The more you kill, the more you brush with death, the stronger your mental strength becomes. Well, some people are just born with it.]
Then what about me?
Well, I’ll find out if I try it.
I haven’t actually used it because Lee Baekho didn’t have time, but it doesn’t seem that difficult.
[Anyway, I’ll tell you how to use it. No, actually, there’s no special method…]
Lee Baekho said that…
…to unleash killing intent, you first need to hypnotize yourself.
[Think of them as an enemy. An enemy you absolutely have to kill and eliminate.]
Coincidentally, self-hypnosis is one of my specialties.
“Um… someone is talking to… me…”
The Fox Mask, who meets my gaze as I open my eyes, freezes for a moment, then scoffs as if it’s absurd.
“Ha, you call this revenge?”
It seems like it worked properly, but the effect wasn’t that strong.
Therefore, I focus on my intent even more.
“How childish.”
These guys are goblins.
Bastards who are trying to kill me.
Right, enemies who are threatening my life.
“Just apologize. I’ll admit that I was testing you at first, so if you apologize sincerely, I won’t hold a grudge over this.”
I hypnotize myself, imagining running towards them and smashing their heads in with my mace.
That’s when…
‘Huh?’
…I feel a sensation as if something is being drained from my head. It’s a strange feeling that’s completely different from pain, something I’ve never experienced before.
“No, pride doesn’t mean a single apology—»
The Fox Mask, who was scolding me, suddenly stops talking.
And she freezes stiff, unable to move.
As if she’s been caught by something invisible and can’t even budge.
“……!”
The emotions in her wide eyes are also familiar to me.
The look that my enemies showed at the very end.
The look they had when they saw the mace about to smash their heads.
‘Uh, I didn’t expect it to be this effective.’
I look around to confirm, feeling a bit surprised.
The three, who were reacting to the Fox Mask’s behavior, all show clear responses as soon as our eyes meet.
Swoosh.
The Antler Mask, who was leaning against a pillar, moves his hand towards his waist, where a sword should be.
He’s the one who thought I was arrogant.
Flick.
The Crescent Moon Mask averts his gaze and looks down.
He’s the one who looked at me with pity.
“……Uh, well, I didn’t say anything?”
The Yellow Clown Mask waves his hands exaggeratedly and steps back.
He’s the one who thought I was an interesting guy.
‘What is this?’
Instead of feeling happy, I’m even more confused by their intense reactions.
Why? Why is it so effective?
I don’t have time to calmly contemplate.
Crackle.
It feels like my brain is being wrung out like a wet towel.
I feel mental fatigue as if I’ve been awake for three days and nights.
I instinctively realize…
…that I only have a few seconds left to maintain Barbarian Killing Intent Mode.
‘Damn it, he didn’t mention this.’
I hurriedly look at the Fox Mask.
She’s trembling.
“Pl, please stop. I, I’m in danger…”
She begs with difficulty as I just stare at her silently.
And at that moment, Killing Intent Mode ends.
“Whew…!”
The Fox Mask takes a deep breath, as if surfacing from underwater.
I look at her flinching as our eyes meet, and I’m certain.
‘Whatever it was, it worked out thanks to that.’
The image I wanted to create as soon as I realized the atmosphere was hostile towards newbies.
I’ve successfully become a crazy bastard who shouldn’t be messed with.
______________________
“…To cause this much of a scene just from one test. Things are going to be tough from now on.”
The silence that filled the room is broken as the Antler Mask mutters.
“Pfft, it was an interesting experience. How much more do I have to kill to be able to do that?”
Just as the Clown, looking at me with a strange gaze, mutters…
Clack!
…the four doors connected to the room all close at once.
Honestly, I was scared shitless, but it’s a good thing I didn’t show it.
It’s just that the entry time is over.
“It’s already this late.”
“We’re ending with just the four of us again this time… no, five of us.”
I take a random seat as everyone else is sitting down. However, before the meeting officially begins, questions are directed at me.
Unlike earlier, they’re not questions that try to gauge my identity.
“Lion, this must be your first time at the gathering. I thought you might be a founding member after seeing that killing intent… but the Lion mask has always been on the wall.”
I nod at Crescent Moon’s words.
There’s nothing more pointless than denying something when there’s clear evidence.
It’s better to just admit it coolly.
“So what do you want to say?”
“…Have you met the Master? Ah, you can just say no if you don’t want to answer.”
Crescent Moon’s tone is polite and cautious, as if my crazy bastard image is effective.
Is this why people should act like maniacs?
It’s a realization that I wouldn’t have had if I hadn’t become a barbarian.
“If you want a reward, I’ll give it to you. Although it might be difficult to meet your expectations.”
“Forget about the reward. Why do you think I met the Master?”
I answer arrogantly.
Because I don’t even know who the Master is.
“That’s… a strange question. You’re a newbie who joined a year after the Master disappeared, wouldn’t it be natural to think that?”
“That’s probably why Fox tried to test you and got screwed over.”
The Fox Mask turns her head away in shame as the Clown mutters as if to himself.
‘It seems like the Master refers to the founder of this gathering.’
As I’m piecing together the information and trying to understand, Crescent Moon continues,
“Ahem, anyway, not only that, but you seem to know a lot about this place for a first-timer.”
Hmm, that’s not thanks to the Master, but to Lee Baekho.
Wait, who the hell is that guy?
I make a mental note to gradually find out about Lee Baekho and end my thoughts.
“So can we get an answer to the question? If you just tell us when and where you last saw the Master, that would be enough—”
“The answer is no.”
“Whew, I see. Alright.”
Crescent Moon cleanly lets go of his curiosity and steps back.
If I seemed like a pushover, he would have definitely pestered me with questions.
“Anyway, leaving aside the Master, how about we get started?”
The Clown, who seems less interested in the Master’s whereabouts compared to the other three, wraps up the conversation and signals the start of the meeting.
I’m glad I knew the rules beforehand.
If I had asked such a question here, my mysterious image would have been shattered.
“Then I’ll go first.”
The first turn goes to the Clown who initiated the conversation.
“The King of Lafdonia’s illness has worsened.”
A red light illuminates the jewel embedded in the center of the round table.
It means that the information is true and that more than half of the people gathered here know about it.
“Worsened? Isn’t that too vague?”
“Everyone knows that the King’s health is serious. Tell us something more useful.”
The Fox and Crescent Moon frown and criticize the Clown.
I just stay silent.
‘I didn’t know that…’
The King is sick?
I’ve never heard of it. There weren’t any rumors like that circulating in the city. Well, it would be strange for the King’s health to be a topic of conversation on the streets.
“Whew, they don’t even know how important this is. Pathetic.”
The Clown glances at the Fox and Crescent Moon and then subtly looks at me.
‘You understand what I mean, right?’
That kind of meaning seems to be embedded in his gaze.
“…………”
I just stay silent again.
Because I’ll at least be in the middle ground then.
“The captain of the Rose Knights died yesterday. How about this? You’ll admit this is useful, right?»
A heavy silence falls upon the round table as the Clown shares more information.
“…The palace will be bloody.”
“Yes, we need to prepare too.”
Who the hell is the captain of the Rose Knights?
Anyway, since the jewel emits a green light, we move on to the next turn.
This time, it’s the Fox Mask’s turn.
“The Jagun Clan succeeded in subjugating the 1st-floor Floor Master.”
“Hoo, as expected of those guys.”
“Pfft, I saw the purchase request disappear from the exchange, so it seems like they got the strategy from somewhere. I thought they would never be able to defeat it.”
I remain silent this time too.
It’s not because I don’t know anything, but because it’s about me.
‘So the Jagun Clan was the one who defeated it.’
I couldn’t find any information in the city besides the fact that the Floor Master had been summoned.
‘…It’s a good thing I came here.’
Since the jewel emits a green light again, it’s Crescent Moon’s turn next.
“Huhu, I don’t think anyone knows about this.”
“Just spit it out.”
“If you activate the hidden piece on the Isle of Tranquil Fairies, ‘Labganus’ will appear three times guaranteed.”
The Fox and Antler masks are surprised at Crescent Moon’s words.
“That’s good news for anyone who’s been trying to get Labganus’ essence.”
“Wait, what about the hidden piece? What is it?”
“Wouldn’t it be shameless to ask for that too? Anyway, it’s the next turn… huh?”
Crescent Moon, who was about to naturally pass the turn, freezes.
It’s because the jewel emits a red light.
Unlike before, where anonymity was maintained, it’s easy to guess who already knew the information.
Because the previous two made it obvious that they didn’t know.
“Crescent Moon, don’t be too disappointed. Most people wouldn’t know what you’re talking about, you know?”
Crescent Moon sighs as the Clown offers words of comfort.
“Until now, I just had to worry about Clown not knowing, but now there’s one more…”
I shrug.
Who told him to share something that you can learn just by playing the game?
“You can just tell us about the hidden piece.”
“That is… it’s still a secret.”
“Hoo, then you’ll inevitably be banned today—”
“Haha, what are you talking about? I was just saying that it’s embarrassing because I have to reveal my hand.”
Crescent Moon sighs and then reveals new information.
“They say the fairies have found traces of the ‘Sacred Relic Thief’.”
Although the jewel emits a green light, the Fox narrows her eyes and raises an objection.
“Traces? Isn’t that too vague?”
“Information about the ‘Sacred Relic Thief’, which had no leads until now. This alone is highly classified information.”
“Hmm, fine. I’ll admit it.”
“Crescent Moon, as expected, you were a fairy, weren’t you?”
Crescent Moon’s turn ends as the Fox, who raised the objection, backs down.
And all eyes turn to me.
Although Antler is still there, it’s naturally my turn since we’re going clockwise.
‘I’m getting nervous.’
Is it because of their expectant gazes?
I feel pressured even though I’ve chosen some useful information to share during my turn.
If it’s all information they already know, it will be embarrassing.
‘I should just start with something I’m sure about.’
I want to maintain my mysterious image as much as possible, so I select information that would be difficult for others to know.
“If you kill a Demonic Halfling with three people, an essence is guaranteed to drop.”
As expected, the jewel on the table emits a green light.
However…
“…Kill a Demonic Halfling with three people?”
Why are they surprised about that part?
It’s easy to do it with three people on cheat mode, isn’t it?
‘It’s even an easy monster to defeat…’
I can’t understand it at all.
——————————
Chapter 126: Veteran (5)
A level 3 monster, Demonic Halfling.
The difficulty of defeating it is on the lower end among level 3 monsters, but it’s a ‘rare’ monster that’s difficult to encounter because of a few conditions for its appearance.
That’s why I chose this for my first piece of information.
Even cheat mode players wouldn’t have much experience defeating Demonic Halflings.
And there’s no way they would have defeated it with only three people.
‘And most importantly, even if you know, it’s useless.’
Actually, that was the biggest reason.
Demonic Halflings are hard to find.
And it’s even harder to defeat one with only three people.
This isn’t the cheat mode world where you can absorb up to 30 essences per character. In other words, it’s information that would be met with a ‘huh, there’s something like that? Interesting’ kind of reaction even if you heard it.
Right, that should definitely have been the case…
“Is that true?! Ah, ah! I didn’t mean to doubt you. Really. You know?”
Starting with the Fox Mask, who jumps up to ask a question and then hurriedly adds an excuse…
…everyone’s reaction is a bit strange.
“…Kill a Demonic Halfling with three people?”
“A Demonic Halfling… that’s a level 3 monster, right? Is that even possible…?”
It’s as if they’ve heard something unbelievable.
“Then let’s move on to the next one.”
I nonchalantly pass the turn as if it’s nothing special.
Actually, it’s a tactic to divert the attention that’s focused on me, but no one notices thanks to my mysterious image.
“Fortunately, the green light came on.”
After the last member, Antler, also shares his information and gets the okay, the first round ends.
According to the notice I saw when I entered, from now on, the participants decide whether to go for another round through discussion…
“I’ll stop here today.”
As Crescent Moon, who didn’t seem to have prepared much, declares that he’s leaving after the first round, the atmosphere leans towards ending the meeting here.
“Hmm, then I’ll stop here too. I’ll save what I was going to use for the next meeting.”
“If Fox is leaving, I’ll also stop. I have a lot prepared, but… since those two don’t know about it, I’m not confident.”
As the Fox and Antler Mask express their intentions to not participate, the Clown looks at me with a subtle voice.
“Mr. Lion, what about you? I’m fine with continuing the meeting just the two of us—”
“I’ll stop here too.”
“Yes? Why?”
I shrug and don’t say anything.
Well, I also want to go through several rounds and gather information if I could…
‘But if we do it with just the two of us, there’s a risk of being exposed.’
The risk is too high.
If I throw out a test question and the green light comes on, the fact that I’m a newbie will be revealed.
And it’s not very efficient to trade one piece of information for another.
“Hmm, that’s unfortunate. I finally met someone who could be helpful, but it’s already ending.”
The meeting ends with the Clown’s words, dripping with regret.
But what is this?
“…….”
Even though the meeting is over, everyone is just silently looking at each other without leaving the chat room.
Although they’re pretending not to, I can easily sense that their attention is on me.
It seems like they’re expecting me to say something before leaving.
‘…Right, I was the main character today.’
I chuckle to myself and seriously contemplate.
The meeting I attended for the first time.
Today, I succeeded in creating a ‘concept’ that wouldn’t be underestimated by the veterans.
Then what would be the most fitting action for this concept?
“…….”
Clown, Antler, Fox, Crescent Moon…
I slowly observe the four veteran players I met today, one by one.
And…
“Is this all?”
…I just leave.
____________________
“He… left.”
As soon as Lion left, Fox let out a breath she’d been holding back.
“Fox, are you alright?”
Crescent Moon asked cautiously, looking at her.
Although the subject was omitted, the intended meaning was clear.
It really was dangerous a while ago.
“……I’m fine.”
Killing intent.
An intention to kill someone.
It’s an intangible thing that’s usually difficult to feel unless you have a keen sense.
However, it’s a bit different in this special space where minds are connected.
“Are you really okay? Your fingertips have been trembling.”
Without the filter of a physical body, the moment you’re exposed to killing intent, an overwhelming fear is engraved in your mind.
Of course, it usually ends there…
…but in severe cases, the spirit suffers a significant blow, and the aftereffects linger even in the real world.
“It’ll stop soon. Fortunately, it didn’t reach mental contamination.”
Although she says that, Fox is shaken.
What would have happened if Lion had withdrawn his killing intent even a little later?
The thought alone sent shivers down her spine.
She might have developed a speech impediment, even if it wasn’t as severe as insanity.
“Who the hell is he…?”
Fox blurts out the question she’d been holding back.
A newbie who joined a year after the Master disappeared.
She considered herself to have a high mental barrier, but she could only endure his killing intent for a few seconds.
She’s curious what kind of experiences one has to go through for their mental strength to reach that level…
…but what’s truly astonishing is something else.
“That person, he withdrew his killing intent as soon as he realized I reached my limit. And instantly, at that.”
“…As expected, it wasn’t my imagination.”
The oppressive killing intent disappeared in less than a second.
It’s something that’s hard to describe in words.
To completely erase an intention that was materialized through extreme focus?
Is that even possible for the human mind?
‘Why did I have to be the one to step forward…’
While Fox regrets her reckless actions, Antler speaks.
“More importantly, what do you think about what he said?”
“About the Demonic Halfling?”
“Yes.”
“It can’t be… a lie. The light of truth came on.”
Of course, the jewel on the round table isn’t absolute.
If the speaker firmly believes that it’s the ‘truth’, the jewel will emit a green light.
But…
“I don’t think he’s mistaken.”
“That’s… I agree. That’s why it’s confusing.”
For Lion’s information to be true, one prerequisite has to be met.
That they defeated a Demonic Halfling with three people.
“It’s probably something from the game, but it sounds too absurd.”
“Wouldn’t it be possible in 50x mode? Well, I don’t think Lion cleared that difficulty.”
Crescent Moon chuckles and joins the conversation at Antler’s words.
And at that moment…
“Hmm, so you’re all assuming that Mr. Lion is talking about information he learned from the game?”
The Clown speaks in a meaningful tone, and a brief silence falls.
“…….”
“…….”
Of course, it doesn’t last long.
All three of them shake their heads and smile awkwardly.
“…Haha, there’s no way.”
“Clown, you always say the strangest things.”
Although she doesn’t deny it like the other two, Fox also feels the same way.
To raid a Demonic Halfling with three people… how could they do that here when it’s even difficult in the game?
“Tsk, you guys all lack imagination.”
The Clown clicks his tongue as if he’s disappointed.
“Anyway, please be better prepared next time.”
“Prepared? For what?”
“Information! Information! What the hell is this? A person like that finally appears, and we have to send him away because we don’t have enough information? Are you going to take responsibility if he loses interest in this place? We don’t even know what he’ll tell us in the future!”
“Hey, losing interest is a bit of an exaggeration—”
“Didn’t you hear what he said earlier? He was clearly disappointed, disappointed!”
“Keu, ahem…”
“If you don’t have anything useful, at least find something stimulating and interesting. I don’t intend to miss an opportunity like this because of you guys. Got it?”
The three remain silent at the Clown’s taunt.
And they maintain an awkward silence without saying anything.
Watchers of the Round Table.
A secret gathering place where players exchange information, a place that ordinary players wouldn’t even know about. The three of them had pride in being members of this place.
However…
[Is this all?]
…that single sentence shattered everything.
His cold, mocking gaze made them realize how arrogant they had been. And his departing figure without looking back made them involuntarily acknowledge it.
Watchers of the Round Table.
In the end, this place was also just a well to someone.
‘That was fun.’
_____________________
I opened my eyes, feeling a sense of satisfaction.
Lee Hansu’s room, with the bed and the computer desk close together.
I checked the time and then closed my eyes again.
‘Watchers of the Round Table…’
The community Lee Baekho told me about was more beneficial than I expected. It’s the perfect source of high-level information, which I was lacking.
‘I should stick with them until the end, somehow.’
Of course, to do that, I need to maintain my act.
Although I probably wouldn’t be kicked out immediately if they find out I’m a newbie…
…the way they try to figure out my identity will become much more direct.
‘Anyway, let’s organize the information I can get from that place tomorrow…’
I shift my focus.
[Sergeant Lee]
Lee Baekho.
The embodiment of misfortune who was dragged here on the day he was discharged from the military, and… a player who exudes the aura of stagnant water.
Honestly, I’m still baffled.
It’s like he slipped something into my pocket.
‘I’ll have to thank Baekho next time we meet.’
I just entered the chat room because I missed talking to Koreans, but I ended up making an incredible connection. Of course, I don’t intend to remain in a one-sided relationship where I just receive favors.
Not only is it not the kind of relationship I want…
…but Lee Baekho, that guy, is definitely not a pushover either.
‘Right, relationships last longer when you know where to draw the line.’
With that thought, I sat down in front of the computer and continued my community activities.
Unlike last time, I sold minor bits of information and accumulated GP, and I spent my remaining time browsing the forum and entering chat rooms to adapt to the atmosphere.
And so, my second community activity session ended.
「Character is being transported to Lafdonia.」
Bjorn’s room, not Lee Hansu’s.
As soon as I opened my eyes, I habitually checked the clock.
Not much time has passed this time either.
‘…It would be perfect if I weren’t so tired.’
I’m quite mentally exhausted since I was awake for an additional 12 hours on top of my usual sleep schedule.
No, is this just a side effect of overusing killing intent?
Whatever the reason, it’s a good thing I cleared my schedule for tomorrow—
“Bjorn! How long are you going to sleep?!”
Damn it.
I just closed my eyes for a bit, and Misha is here.
It seems like morning has already come, as the window is bright.
“Just a little longer…”
“Ugh, what do you mean ‘a little longer’? You always tell me I’m lazy. Don’t tell me you stayed up all night at the library again?”
“It’s not that.”
Since Misha is sensitive about meals, I obediently get up and have breakfast with her. And then I collapse back onto the bed.
And after some time…
…I open my eyes and look towards the window, and a faint orange glow is visible on the glass.
“You’re waking up now that the sun is setting? What the hell did you do yesterday?”
“I just had trouble sleeping.”
“…You?”
Her reaction makes me feel a bit hurt, but I have nothing to say. It’s a barbarian’s body, so I can fall asleep instantly if I want to.
“But… were you here the whole time?”
“Of course not. I finished morning training and even met Dwarkey for a while, and I went to my family’s place.”
“What? Wait, you met Dwarkey…?”
“Yeah, he said he had some concerns, so I gave him some advice.”
Misha said it as if it were nothing, but I couldn’t just let it go, knowing Dwarkey’s feelings.
In [Dungeon and Stone] too, romantic relationships between companions were a shortcut to a bloodbath.
“So… what kind of concerns did he have?”
“Hmm… it’s someone else’s problem…”
Geez, making a barbarian feel hurt.
“Why are we strangers?”
“Well… I guess it’s okay to tell you.”
Misha spills the beans as I subtly express my hurt feelings.
It’s just an ordinary relationship consultation.
He likes someone, and he’s wondering whether to confess or not?
‘I can’t believe someone would actually worry about that…’
I chuckle, but I ask further to confirm.
“So what did you say to him?”
“Huh? I just told him to confess like a man?”
“I see…”
It’s a somewhat expected answer.
Misha, who hasn’t even had a single proper relationship until she turned twenty-five. Just by looking at the way she usually acts towards me, it’s clear that she’s not interested in romantic relationships—
“Th, that’s… what I’m saying…”
That’s when Misha suddenly avoids my gaze and trails off.
Her face seems unusually flushed.
What’s this? Is it because of the sunset?
Just as I’m wondering…
Misha grabs my hand.
“Bjorn, if it’s okay, could you come to my house with me tomorrow?”
“…Come with you?”
Not visit?
I ask back, thinking the context of her words doesn’t make sense, but Misha just nods.
“Yeah, yeah. Can’t you do it? I’ll do everything you say from now on. Okay?”
I quickly grasp the situation, wondering what’s going on.
It’s not like she’s asking me to visit her accommodation.
“Don’t tell me, by ‘our house’, you mean your family’s estate…?”
Misha hangs her head low at my question.
“Yeah…”
I can feel her nervousness through her trembling hand.
And has the sun set further? The sunset, shining through the window and illuminating Misha, has become much deeper.
Misha gulps and adds an explanation.
“My, my father said he wants to meet you… so… can you come with me… please?”
An invitation from her parents…
It would be a lie to say I’m not flustered, but…
I answer without hesitation,
“Alright.”
“…What? Really? Are you serious? Wow! No take-backs!”
“Enough, what time should we go tomorrow?”
I feel like what was coming has finally arrived.