Side Event: The Heroes' Perspective

  Before Yuki was borrowed from his world, there were people summoned from Earth—a completely different realm than Yuki's world.

  Among those people, there is a famous group with wide influence, almost equal to a Baron's. A group of ignorant students in their world.

  But in Aerium, they're called Heroes.

  This is the account of one of the heroes, around the time of Cowfering.

  "Gaaaaahh... I'm wasted~"

  My voice echoes through my room like an old man's groan. I collapse onto my bed, every muscle screaming.

  "Hee~ You sound like an old man, Nobu~"

  Helen's teasing voice floats through the doorway. She looks completely fine—not even a drop of sweat. Meanwhile, I'm sprawled out like I just survived a war.

  "But it's really tiring, right Sena?"

  I turn to our third companion, hoping for solidarity.

  "Not at all."

  Sena's answer is immediate and merciless.

  "Hahaha, poor Nobu! Sena doesn't agree with you~" Helen giggles.

  "Guh! Aren't you tired at all, Sena?"

  Sena Matsumoto—seventeen years old, same as me and Helen. But unlike us, she's an assassin by job class, trained by her grandfather in some underground mafia family back on Earth. Her defensive capabilities and stealth skills are leagues beyond ours. She's already reached level 26 while Helen and I are still struggling in the low twenties.

  "No, the training is hard for normal people. But it's not that difficult compared to my grandfather's training."

  "Hee, I guess we can't compare ourselves to Sena." Helen chuckles.

  "Guuh... I didn't know you had that kind of background, Sena. But I don't think you'll admit it either." I grin despite my exhaustion.

  "What? Don't look at me like that! Of course it's exhausting for me too, but I don't complain like an old man!" Helen shoots back.

  "Calm down, you two..." Sena's quiet voice cuts through our bickering. "So..."

  "So? What's on your mind, Sena?" Helen tilts her head.

  "Hm? What is it?" I prop myself up on my elbows.

  "It's just... what's our plan going forward from now?"

  The question hangs in the air. Helen and I exchange glances.

  "Hmm, you're right. I haven't thought about it once—I've just been following the flow. What about you, Nobu? Do you have some plan?"

  "Of course! What else should we do in another world of fantasy?" I grin.

  "Ugh, that otaku habit comes out again. Gross~" Helen wrinkles her nose.

  "But it's fantasy! Our wishes can become reality as long as we desire!"

  "Yeah, yeah. So what? You really want to look for a demon king?"

  "Obviously!"

  Sena shakes her head. "But the King and Mr. Dravius said there's no demon king. Our main objective is suppressing the rampaging monsters."

  "That's the mistake they made there. Who else can make those monsters go crazy?"

  "What? A demon king?" Helen raises an eyebrow.

  "Exactly! We'll investigate by ourselves, then execute the demon king before finally claiming glory in front of the kingdom. How does that sound?"

  "Nah, I don't know that kind of game from our world, so I prefer guidance from my tutor here." Helen waves dismissively.

  "Same. It's reckless to act outside our expertise. We should look for more valid clues if you still insist on finding this demon king." Sena's tone is practical as always.

  "Uughh... so what about you two? Do either of you have better ideas?"

  "Hmm, I don't have any particular idea, but I want to travel to all the places in this world. After all, it's a fantasy world, right?" Helen's eyes light up.

  "I agree. I'd like to enjoy the culinary culture of this world. I hope we can establish friendly relationships with other countries and visit their tourist spots." Sena's rare smile appears.

  "W-what?! Aren't you both too relaxed about this world?!"

  "Nah, it's fine. The Guardian said so too."

  Knock knock.

  "Sir heroes, the meal is already prepared. Please come to the hall."

  "Alright, thanks Nirian." Helen responds immediately.

  "My pleasure. I'll excuse myself then."

  "Since when do you know the names of all the maids here?"

  "Of course since we were claimed as heroes. Knowledge makes better understanding, you know."

  That's right.

  Here, we are the heroes of this world.

  People summoned by the wizards and priests of Hearthen Kingdom through the Guardian's permission.

  What the hell is Guardian's permission? Of course—it's the authority of the being we usually refer to as a Goddess.

  Since we received her permission, we met her and were granted abilities to survive in this dangerous world.

  Aerium, as the Guardian calls it, is an underdeveloped world where many fantasy and mythical creatures roam everywhere.

  As you'd expect from an underdeveloped fantasy world, its people use blades and magic in their daily lives.

  A dream world I've desired since I was a little kid. But my friends don't agree with me. They say it's a barbaric world where you can die at any moment. Though that's true, that's what our abilities are for, right?

  Each of us was granted limited unique abilities, aside from our common ones. To keep the secret, I won't write them down even in my notebook.

  But I can tell you they're truly unique abilities that even people in this world can't learn. So if you witness anyone with a strange ability you've never heard of, you can assume that person is an otherworlder like us.

  "What are you daydreaming about? Come on, Nobu. I'm hungry."

  "A-ah, yes. It seems my exhaustion is getting to my mind, hahaha."

  "Hmm, I'm sure a good meal will replenish your mentality."

  "Haha, I guess so."

  Now we're heading to have our meal after morning exercise. Living in the King's castle is quite shocking, even for Sena—who comes from a conglomerate family in the underworld.

  We each have spacious rooms—I imagine mine is as big as four standard classrooms combined into one. Though it's still strange that my room became our meeting basecamp.

  The meals here are quite delicate. I thought they'd have seasoning problems since it's an underdeveloped world.

  But actually, it's not only the seasoning. There are other things that can't be categorized as underdeveloped. For example, clocks—fortunately, this world already knows the time system.

  Is it really an underdeveloped world? Or... is the Guardian being modest?

  "Ah, our heroes! Welcome! Let's enjoy our feast together. It's just a humble one, but we have enough if you want more."

  King Aldric of Hearthen Kingdom greets us warmly, as he always does.

  "Thank you for your kindness, my liege."

  Sena's response is flawless. As expected of someone raised in a mafia family—she knows exactly how to respond to royalty.

  In etiquette, Helen and I are still a bit awkward. But the King himself isn't the kind of person who prioritizes formality over everything. That somehow makes us more awkward.

  "How is the meal, Sir Nobu?"

  Princess Irine smiles at me from across the table.

  "It's good as always! My exhaustion has lifted already!"

  "Hehe, good to hear that."

  She's the only princess. The King has only two children, and they've already welcomed us as their own family. There's no better treatment than this.

  "Hey, don't bother him, Irine. After this meal, we'll have a sparring match, right Nobu?"

  Prince Irvine grins at me with competitive fire in his eyes.

  "E-hehe... s-sure, Prince."

  "Just call me Irvine! It's already the fourth time I've told you!"

  "Brother, you're the one bothering him."

  "Haha, let them be, Princess. Boys always have their own world. We should continue our previous talk, right?"

  Queen Elara smiles gently at Sena and Helen.

  "Oh, you're right. Let's meet after this meal. Sena will come this time, right?"

  "I don't see any problem."

  "Great! Finally we'll have a girls' meeting for the three of us. Hehe, I'm excited."

  "Heh, just some girls' talk. What's so exciting about that?" Irvine scoffs.

  "Same goes for you, Brother. What's so exciting about brutal violence?"

  "What?! You—!"

  "AHEM!"

  Queen Elara's single sound freezes both siblings in place.

  "Y-yes, Mother." They speak in unison.

  "I think both of you still need supplementary manner lessons, don't you agree, my King?"

  "Emmm..." King Aldric looks caught between amusement and diplomatic necessity.

  "We are sorry, Queen Mother..." Both siblings look like scolded puppies.

  "That's good to hear. Sir heroes, please continue your feast."

  "T-thanks, hehe."

  That's the Queen. I think she's more powerful than the King himself in certain matters.

  It's already been two months since we were summoned. It's safe to assume time flows the same in this world as on Earth. So we've been missing for two whole months. I hope our families aren't too troubled by our disappearance.

  For now, we should focus on our mission. The King's mage circle is trying their best to find a way to send us back to our world. So we can only do our best in training and thinking of plans, in case I—to be precise, I—can't go back home.

  "Alright, you've finished your meal, haven't you? Let's go to the training field now."

  "Haha, alright, alright."

  "See you later, Nobu~ We'll meet there as planned, right?"

  "Yeah, of course. As planned~"

  "See you soon."

  "You too, Sena."

  Today we get a holiday to walk in the city streets—our second chance, actually.

  For our mission, we're instructed to do four training sessions a day: morning exercise from 5 AM to 7 AM, midday training from 10 AM to 11 AM, evening training from 3 PM to 5 PM, and lastly night training from 7 PM to 8 PM.

  At first, only Sena could manage without breaking a sweat. But gradually, Helen and I caught up with the harsh routine.

  Oh, and don't forget about those flexible lectures between our rest periods and before bedtime.

  That's why chances like this are truly golden tickets for us. Though in this case, we were told that our battle instructor, Mr. Dravius, and other elite guards were ordered for some big event.

  I wonder what it is?

  Still, all that training is worth the exhaustion.

  "Ready, Nobu?"

  "Sure, Prince Irvine."

  "Alright, let's start!"

  Now I—who was only a nerd in my world—can defend myself against a prince who's trained since birth. He even calls me a challenge.

  "Huaaahh... like always, it ended in a draw, huh." Huff huff.

  "Haha... I guess it's still a long way before I win against you, Prince Irvine." Huff huff.

  "Of course it is! You've only learned defensive skills so far! How can you win by only defending?!"

  He's right.

  I can hold my own against him only by blocking his furious attacks and preserving my stamina until the end. Basically, it's a stamina race.

  As a Knight—that's my job class in this world—my proficiency in defense is higher than my companions'. My body naturally grows sturdier, my stance more grounded. That's why I think it's more effective to prioritize defensive abilities than other things.

  "Haha, I guess. But it's necessary for the time being."

  "What do you mean?"

  If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

  "As you know, Prince, I work with my friends as a team. The situation dictates that I'm positioned as a tank. My task is to distract enemies while my friends land huge damage."

  In this world, there's a stats system like in a game. Various jobs that people can choose or change at shrines. These jobs are different from occupations—they affect our growth and available skills.

  "Hmm, if you say so, your choice is right. Your priority is indeed to be a shield. But still, I suggest you have at least one offensive skill. It could be used as your trump card in certain emergencies."

  "I'll keep that in mind. Thanks for your advice, Prince."

  "Haha, it's alright. You're our hero, after all. If my little advice can be of use to you, it might save lives in the future."

  Though the Prince says that casually, I can feel his genuine concern. I think it doesn't hurt to find a suitable offensive skill later.

  "Ah, I guess it's almost time. I'll excuse myself, Prince Irvine."

  "Where are you going?"

  "Hehe, we planned to walk in the streets. You know, this world is still new to us. It excites us to explore."

  "Haha, sure it does. In addition, this is the royal capital. I assure you there are various things from all over the kingdom." He pauses, then grins. "Oh yeah, I recommend you check out Hermit's Collection Shop. You can find any products of smithing and crafting—be it cookware or weapons."

  "Wow! Really? That's like a supermall!"

  "What's that?"

  "Haha, nevermind. I mean, I'll be sure to check that store. Thanks for the tip, Prince. See you later."

  "Yup, see you later. And thanks for the sparring!"

  Now we're going to explore the city for the second time. I'll be sure to satisfy my curiosity to the fullest.

  "Hmm? Fortunately, there's still no one waiting at the gate."

  "Yoohoo, Nobu~"

  "Ah, speak of the devil."

  Helen waves from the castle gate, Sena standing calmly beside her.

  "It's unusual to see you earlier than us."

  "Eehh... your words are polite but sharper than a curse, Sena."

  "Haha, enough chitchat here, guys. Let's get down to the street~"

  "Sure."

  "Of course."

  We walk into the streets—to be precise, the royal capital of Hearthen Kingdom.

  Rhapeus.

  Hearthen Kingdom has a territory system that can be drawn as a cycle diagram. With the royal capital—where the royal family resides—as the center, the kingdom is divided into three main territories of dukes.

  Lovres, Haymont, and Indeline. Each territory has its own ideal for developing their region. The King only stated that it must be a fair and joyous place to live. I heard the different ideals of each region create varied development between areas.

  All those diversities are reflected in this royal city. Various unique items from all over the regions are traded in every corner.

  The girls seem more excited than last time. Indeed, it's more crowded now.

  Is there a festival going to be held?

  "What skin is this?"

  "Young Bullnoros. Our supplier tried their best to catch this one. But I assure you this skin is in great condition—I had it checked by an appraiser."

  It's one of the trading conversations I overhear by chance. While waiting for the girls to buy accessories, I'm curious about the common knowledge of this world.

  By the way, what is Bullnoros? How strong is it?

  "Really? Hmm, that's convincing."

  "By the way, sir, may I know your need? From the gear you're wearing, you don't seem to need material for new armor."

  "Ah, it's backup for Cowfering. I'm joining that event—better safe than sorry, right?"

  Cowfering? What kind of event is it?

  "Oh, is that so? I see..."

  "Why do you ask, by the way?"

  "Oh, it's just a merchant's habit, mister. I may have other items you need in addition to this hide."

  "Oh, that's right. Do you have any of these?"

  "May I see the list, sir?"

  It's the first time I've heard about Cowfering. Is it the reason the city is this crowded?

  Besides, that gentleman looks like an adventurer—a strong one. Perhaps he's B-rank at least, judging by his well-prepared equipment and confident stance.

  Ah, I remember how excited I was when I was told this world has a stats system, adventurer guilds, magic academies, and fantasy monsters.

  But Mr. Dravius explained stats measurement in a vague way. He said normal people in this world have stats around 10-30 for each attribute. Disabled people have 1 point for each disability. So only people with average stats above 30 can become adventurers.

  If I look at that gentleman, he definitely seems capable. I'd guess B-rank based on that alone.

  "Heeey~ Nobuu~ What are you dreaming about, huuhh?!"

  "H-huh?"

  Helen's face appears right in front of mine, her expression annoyed.

  "Lately you often daydream. What's on your mind, Nobu?"

  "H-haha, there's nothing to worry about."

  "Are you really okay? I bet you're just bored, huh?"

  "Hahaha, n-no way! As a kni—"

  "You can just sit there or walk around."

  "H-huh?"

  "Yeah, we'll just meet up at the food plaza over there." Sena points to a large open area with various food stalls.

  "Uhh... alright. S-see you later."

  "Yeah, yeah. Just don't stray too far."

  "Sure, sure."

  Haha, looks like my curiosity shows all over my face. Though I still worry about the girls, I guess I'll enjoy this 'festival' a bit too.

  The street is really crowded—even corners that were empty during our prior visit are now packed. The commodities are mostly strange things, while some are just foods or daily items from different regions.

  Various swords catch my eye—from simple ones to twisted forms. Next to them, a stand sells various perfumes.

  Hm? Love potion? Is it legal to sell that publicly? What about when there are children around?

  No, the merchant selling creepy swords publicly is already dangerous enough.

  What's next? Oh, it's just... Bread? Wait—Dominating Bread? What the hell?!

  The tag explains: "Use it when you're going to dominate your stubborn partner"?! What is this?!

  It's really a fantasy world—in a creepy way!

  I'd better get away from here. I can feel curious glares on my back.

  But Mr. Dravius' statement is true. There are completely different cultures between regions. I think it's wonderful that they can stand next to each other despite their differences. What a peaceful kingdom.

  Hmm, oh yeah! At times like this, I should look for unique magical items, shouldn't I? Like in many stories—who knows, maybe I'll be lucky enough to get my fated sword and other rare items.

  Haaahhh... Sigh.

  In the end, I didn't buy anything.

  There are indeed many interesting weapons, but they're so unusual that I doubt their practical usage in future trips.

  Flashing Sword, Flying Axe, Stretching Dagger, Blocking Bow. What the hell are those?!

  Even the elemental weapons I found are low-grade—like adding an element by 2% of the user's total damage. When I demonstrated the effectiveness, it only sparked a tiny bit of fire. It could barely be called a torch.

  Haaahh... in other words, I need to be stronger to use them effectively. But it's useless to use that kind of weapon if I'm already strong enough.

  I'd better head to that food plaza now. I planned to pick up the girls and go to the store the Prince recommended.

  "Yoohoo, Nobu~ Are you finished walking around?"

  "Haaahh... kind of..." Sigh.

  "Hmm? You're not quite as hyped as before. What's up?"

  "Haha, no. It's just that I couldn't find anything suitable for me. How did it end for you both?"

  "Hehe, we found some cute accessories from various regions. And we bought a few weird fruits—ones that can't be found on Earth~"

  "We plan to ask permission from Her Majesty to cook these fruits. I also have some monster meat. I'll ask for advice from the chef later."

  "Haha, looks like you both are quite pleased with your hunting."

  "Hehe, of course! I got a big discount with my skills. I'm really enjoying using these abilities."

  When we met the Guardian as a starter, we were allowed to choose ten abilities—consisting of at least one ability each for battle, magic, passive, and knowledge categories.

  Helen chose Negotiation Arts as one of her knowledge skills. She must have used that ability to haggle quite a sum from the merchants. I somehow pity them.

  "Oh yeah, after this break, how about we go to the store the Prince recommended?"

  "What about it? Is it something special?"

  "From his explanation, it's similar to a mall in our world."

  "Reaalllyy?!"

  "The Prince said everything from cookware and clothes to weapons are traded there."

  "Then let's get going right now! Right, Sena?"

  "Of course!"

  "Eeehh... wait, I haven't eaten anything yet~"

  "Guuh... alright, alright. I'll give you 15 minutes."

  "Uugh... okay, ma'am~"

  Guaaahh... it really was a supermall!

  Dammit! I forgot that women have extra power when it comes to shopping.

  Can I still have energy for evening training?

  "Good evening, heroe— w-waaahh?! What's going on, Sir Nobu?!"

  One of the castle knights stares at me in alarm. I must look half-dead.

  "Hahaha, it's nothing, Mr. Knight. Nobu just got a simple workout from us. Right, Sena?"

  "Yes, it's nothing serious."

  Dammit, you girls!

  "If you say so..."

  "So, is there anything unusual?"

  "No, Miss Sena! Thank you for your concern as always."

  "No problem. It's my obligation to repay the kindness of you people."

  "Haha... we didn't do anything special."

  "Yeah, to think we're getting praise from one of the heroes."

  Sigh. Their blushing faces are too obvious.

  "Then we'll excuse ourselves. We need to take a rest."

  "Haha, indeed! After all, it's your precious holiday. Come on, Sir Knight Nobu~"

  "Uuuhh..."

  I don't have any energy left to even answer.

  Whisper.

  "Poor boy."

  "Yeah, despite being a hero too, women are still the scary beings, right?"

  "I agree."

  Dammit... but they're right.

  Fuuaaahh... the girls really worked me hard.

  It feels more like weightlifting than shopping. Let me check the stats—it might have increased my strength at least.

  Ah, my physical endurance increased, and my muscle density improved slightly.

  Yep, it's less than I expected, but it's still a good thing. After all, in this world, our efforts are always rewarded. In addition, they're recorded clearly on our plates, so we can monitor them easily.

  Each stat growth is recorded in the stats section, and each ability we learn is recorded in the ability section. Every activity we do has some effect on our stats and, in some cases, on abilities.

  "Ugh, in that case, I should get up from this comfy bed and start my training immediately."

  I wonder if the Prince is still training with his royal guards. Since the elite guards and Mr. Dravius—who usually train with him—are absent, it must be lonely for that energetic prince.

  "Alright, I'll look around at least. If there's no one, I'll just go jogging."

  At least my stamina will go up. Even a little is better for catching up with Sena. Furthermore, I'm sure right now Sena is just relaxing by doing girls' stuff.

  Here I am at the training field. Yep, Sena's not around here.

  And the Prince? Ah! There he is.

  I jog over to greet him.

  "Hey, Prince! Been here a while?"

  "Oh, Nobu! I knew you'd be here. It's only been ten minutes."

  "Greetings, Sir Nobu." The two royal guards bow slightly.

  "Ah, hello, Sir Knights. Sorry to startle you. May I talk with the Prince?"

  "Of course, sir."

  "Certainly."

  "Haaahh... you don't need to be so formal around me. They won't make a move without my order."

  "Haha, it still needs to be done, Prince. After all, I'm just a guest in this castle."

  "Yeah, yeah. I only want a friend on equal footing. By the way, where's Sena? It's rare not to see her around."

  "Haha, she's taking a break with Helen. Girls' stuff."

  "Ah, yeah, girls... wait, then you plan to surpass her while she's loosening up? Haha, how cunning~"

  "Ehehe, you see through me, Prince. Not that I envy her, but it's natural for the weak to look up to the strong, right? I need to catch up so I won't be a burden."

  "Hehe, that's what I like about you, Nobu. Then let's step up a notch."

  "Sure!"

  In the end, I did more exercise than expected. Pushups and situps—50 repetitions each. Running ten rounds. Sword training for three rounds.

  As a result, I can feel myself getting sturdier. My physique improved, my muscles grew denser, my stamina increased significantly, my control over movements sharpened, my focus deepened, my speed enhanced, and my swordmanship advanced a level.

  Fuaaahh... quite an achievement today.

  But today was really tiring—more than the usual routine. I'll stuff my stomach to my heart's content tonight, then just go to sleep.

  Night finally falls, and right now we're ready to feast on our dinner.

  "Let us enjoy the feast!"

  King Aldric raises his goblet with a warm smile.

  "Thank you, my King."

  We three heroes respond in unison.

  "Yes, my King."

  Mr. Dravius—our battle instructor—sits at the table tonight. He's been absent for days.

  Tonight the meal is quite special. The servants said it's rare meat from a monster called Calden.

  "Hmm, as delicious as every year. How is the taste, my heroes? Does it suit your palates?"

  "To be honest, my King, it's more delicious than any food ever served here."

  The words slip out before I can stop them.

  "N-Nobu..." Helen's face goes awkward.

  "Pardon us for our friend's enthusiasm, my King." Sena bows slightly.

  "Pffft..." Prince Irvine covers his mouth.

  "Puha..." Princess Irine turns her head.

  "Hahahahaha!"

  The King, Prince, and Princess burst into laughter.

  "It's fine, alright. I just wanted to hear your honest opinion. And it's to be expected."

  "But dear, please hold your laughter. We don't know if any sensitive ears are around us." Queen Elara's voice carries gentle reproof.

  "But Mother, I saw you turn your head to release your laugh too~"

  "AHEM! As royalty, we should preserve our composure, my dear daughter."

  "Haha, come on, my dear wife. You need to relax from time to time."

  "Hmm, I'll gladly take your advice, dear."

  "Umm, excuse me, Your Highness. What exactly is this meat? Besides the cooking skill and ingredients used, its texture itself is unusual. It's thick but tender at the same time, and the sauce seeps easily into the fiber, making its flavor so rich."

  Sena's question draws everyone's attention.

  "Hoho, you know cooking that well, Sena. Perhaps we can cook together sometime?"

  "My pleasure, my Queen."

  "Yes, you have sharp senses as always, Sena. This is a special delicacy in this world—Calden's meat."

  "Calden?"

  Both Sena and Helen lean forward with interest.

  So it's true. The Calden.

  "Yes. Actually, we have a yearly event that happens even during times of war."

  "What do you mean, my King?"

  "The name of this event is Cowfering."

  Cowfering?!

  So Cowfering is an event? What kind of—

  "You can call it a hunting festival, where you hunt certain creatures that appear only at a certain time."

  "It's still a bit vague to me, my King. May I hear more?"

  "Sure. It's our duty to enlighten the heroes about phenomena in our world. Let's see... perhaps I should tell you a bit from its history."

  The King's expression grows more serious. The casual atmosphere shifts subtly.

  As he explains bit by bit—careful to help us grasp the reality—we learn that Cowfering is an event directly ordered by the Guardian through her messenger, the first otherworlder.

  On the 14th day of the month Ostara, Caldens and their minions—Minotaurs—are spawned into this world out of nowhere. They're B-rank monsters individually, but as a whole group, they're classified as an A-rank herd.

  The phenomenon happens every year, even during wartime. All the priests across this world have offered prayers, but this event has never stopped. And there's never been a case where Caldens roam the wilds outside the time of Cowfering.

  The main purpose is simple: hunt the Calden herds as much as we can, then enjoy most of the bounty with our people. Friends, families, customers, strangers—you can share with anyone.

  But the fieldwork isn't as easy as theory. The Calden's hide is stronger than any steel, making this creature's threat level similar to A-rank monsters. And each year, the number of herds varies. There have even been cases when the herds vastly outnumbered the participants.

  "That's all the general information I can provide for now, heroes. There have been a few accidents that led to participant deaths. Therefore, all the leaders of the world decided on safety measurements to prevent further casualties in the future."

  "It's quite... complicated."

  "I know what you're thinking, my dear hero Sena. But rest assured—its main purpose is to celebrate our hard work with our dearest people. That's why we apply common rules to maintain that purpose."

  "Yes, what my husband said is true. Since those regulations were applied, there have been almost zero casualties. Of course, there are still some ignorant amateurs who get in over their heads when joining this event."

  "Indeed, just let it go, my dear. They have their own free will. We leaders can only guide and warn them for their own good."

  "Hmm, so it's just a special celebration. I'm interested in joining in the future." Sena's eyes show genuine curiosity.

  "Of course! When you've all finished your basic training, you can join Cowfering too. I'll even give you my recommendation."

  "Thank you, my King."

  "But it's such a shame to have it only once a year."

  "I agree with you, Nobu." Prince Irvine nods enthusiastically.

  "Haha, I know what youngsters are thinking. But it has quite a positive side. Because this event is only once a year, we can still adore the deliciousness of this meat and not grow bored of the flavor."

  "I agree with my husband. No matter how delicious something is, we'll get tired of it eventually, right?"

  "Haha, that's right, my Queen. Don't bother with the boys' childishness."

  Helen and the Queen exchange knowing glances and giggle.

  "Fufufu~"

  "Hmmph..." Both Irvine and I cross our arms, slightly agitated.

  "Sigh. Please calm down. Now we'll hear the news of this year's Cowfering. Please report, Mr. Dravius."

  "Yes, my King."

  The atmosphere shifts again. More serious now.

  "Oh, so Mr. Dravius' absence was to oversee the Cowfering event?" Helen whispers.

  "Yes, Miss Helen. Haha, sorry for not saying anything to you all. It was quite urgent."

  "N-no, I don't mind at all."

  "Haha, yeah. We had quite the time exploring the city ourselves."

  "N-Nobu!"

  "Haha, I'm glad there's no problem. Then please continue your report, Mr. Dravius."

  "Yes, my King." Dravius straightens, his voice becoming formal. "This year's Cowfering has ended. Our Odin Order has already verified it across the kingdom."

  "Sigh. Glad to hear it." The Queen's relief is visible.

  "What about casualties?" The King leans forward slightly.

  "The report states zero casualties—no deaths or even injuries."

  "Fuuuh... it's good that this year has no casualties as well."

  Everyone at the table relaxes slightly.

  Then Dravius adds: "But my King, there's an abnormality..."

  The room goes tense.

  "W-what is it?! Don't tell me the monsters went berserk?!"

  I knew it! There must be a demon—

  "No, my King. Please rest assured. Everything is settled."

  Ah, there go my expectations. I sigh internally.

  Helen covers her mouth, trying not to laugh at my obvious disappointment.

  "But as the report states, some Minotaurs were more aggressive than usual, while the Caldens remained quiet as always. And there were sightings of Lone Caldens."

  "A Lone Calden?!"

  The King's voice rises sharply. Everyone at the table freezes.

  "It's never been heard of in history. Did this happen at all spawn spots?"

  "Yes, my King. Though not many—two Loners were seen in Lumis territory, three in Crowden territory, and two in Ordict territory."

  "That's quite a lot. Furthermore, we don't know yet this Loner's power. How are the conditions of the territories we're talking about?"

  "Fortunately, most appeared in towns with elite soldiers. The territories could defend against them without any injuries."

  "It's good to hear that." The King's shoulders relax slightly. "Please relay my message—soon I'll give rewards to the soldiers who worked hard during this incident."

  "Thank you, my King."

  "Is that all the abnormality you mentioned?"

  "No, my King." Dravius' tone shifts. "Actually, the main abnormality is another report besides this."

  "W-what do you mean, Sir Dravius?!"

  What the hell?! Has the demon lord already appeared right now?!

  My heart pounds with anticipation.

  "All the Lone Caldens were repelled successfully, but no one could subdue or defeat them. Except one case."

  The silence is absolute.

  Everyone leans forward slightly.

  "Which town?"

  "The report states Spawnhall City in Crowden territory. One appeared—one butchered."

  "Butchered?" The King's eyes narrow. "Isn't that just a border city? Are there elite soldiers or high-rankers stationed there?"

  "At the moment, there were only two S-rankers when Cowfering occurred. Sir Vanheir and Sir Herald."

  "Herald... I see. But still..." The King trails off, thoughtful.

  Silence stretches.

  "So you're saying that while other towns couldn't kill it despite having elite soldiers and S-rankers, this city defeated it with only two S-rankers?" Queen Elara's voice carries skepticism.

  "No, my dear. I've witnessed Herald's real power. I don't know how he managed the adventurers and soldiers there to kill this Calden, but it's possible."

  "Is that so? Alright, I'll trust your judgment, husband." The Queen's tone suggests she's not entirely convinced.

  "Mr. Dravius, please give my invitation to Herald. I'd like to discuss this incident with him at a simple dinner."

  "Please pardon me, my King."

  Dravius' voice drops slightly.

  "But it wasn't them who killed it."

  "What?!"

  The King's exclamation echoes through the hall.

  My breath catches. Helen and Sena both lean forward, eyes wide.

  "It was a B-rank beginner who succeeded in killing the Lone Calden by himself. And it seems he received Sir Herald's recommendation."

  What? A beginner?

  The room erupts into murmurs. I can barely process what I'm hearing.

  A B-rank beginner killed a Lone Calden—something that multiple S-rankers and elite soldiers couldn't defeat—by himself?

  That's impossible. Unless...

  Unless he's like us. An otherworlder.

  But the Guardian said she only summoned three people this generation—me, Helen, and Sena.

  So who is this person?

  What kind of ability does he have?

  Is he... could he be connected to the demon king somehow?

  My mind races with possibilities, each more fantastical than the last.

  King Aldric sits back in his chair, his expression unreadable. Deep in thought.

  The casual dinner atmosphere has completely evaporated, replaced by something heavier. More mysterious.

  A B-rank beginner who can kill what S-rankers cannot.

  Who is he?

  - Side Event: Acquired -