Published: January 24, 2026
“Hmmm… Master, does this suit me…?”
Log, dressed in formal attire rather different from his usual dungeon exploration outfit, fidgeted uncomfortably as he asked.
“Ah, don’t worry. It definitely suits you. But where we’re headed, be careful not to show any lack of confidence. If you don’t carry yourself proudly, troublesome people will take advantage of you.”
I gave Log advice as we both wore our party suits.
The reason we’re dressed like this is because there will be a celebration party to honor us—the explorers and soldiers who protected Darane during this incident—with envoys from other countries also attending.
Well, that’s just the official reason, of course; everyone tacitly understands the real deal.
“Y-yes! I’ll be proud and confident!”
“Still, since other explorers and soldiers are attending, they’ll probably overlook some small mistakes. Just enjoy the party without overthinking. Luna and I will handle most of the external interactions.”
“Thank you. Today, I’ll learn by watching you, Master, and Sister Ru!”
“That’s a good mindset to have.”
“Master! Sorry to keep you waiting~!”
While Log and I were talking, the women from the Twilight Moonbow approached.
All three were dressed in dazzling gowns, unlike their usual outfits.
They were all naturally charming, but the dresses seemed to highlight their beauty even more.
“Nah, we weren’t waiting at all. You three look amazing in those dresses. Really beautiful. Right, Log?”
“Yes, that’s right. …Everyone looks great.”
“Hehe~ Thanks, Master, Log!”
Hearing our compliments, the women responded with smiles: Sophie blushed and looked down, Carole shyly smiled, and Luna laughed with more elegance than usual, each saying “Thank you.”
“Well then, let’s head to the party venue. Everyone ready?”
“Perfect!” “All good!” “No problem!” “Nothing’s wrong!”
After confirming everyone’s replies, we stepped into the party hall.
Most people inside shifted their gazes toward us.
—Is that the ‘Hero of the Kingdom’?
—He’s the explorer who cut down that disaster and saved Darane.
—He’s younger than I thought, maybe about twenty?
I overheard their quiet whispers.
…Still, being stared at like this isn’t comfortable.
“First, let’s greet Lord Marius, the host. Everyone, let’s go.”
Without showing our discomfort, the Twilight Moonbow members and I approached Marius, the brother of Sophie and Ms. Selma.
“Lord Marius, do you have a moment?”
As I neared him, I spoke.
“Oh, Orun-kun. Thank you for coming. You helped with my father’s incident recently, and today you defended this city from demonic beasts—I'm truly indebted to you. Let me thank you again. Thank you.”
Marius greeted us with a warm expression.
The incident with his father refers to the dismissal of the former Count Claudel, Sophie’s father, to break off Sophie’s engagement.
It seems they already had enough reason to remove the former Count even without me, but my cooperation convinced Princess Lucilla and Marius to take his side.
With the princess’s backing, Marius smoothly assumed the headship of the Claudel family and the count title, minimizing chaos.
Still, Princess Lucilla’s actions remain puzzling.
I’m no ordinary explorer—I do have some influence—but not enough to sway the princess.
What motives did she have in backing Marius?
“You’re too kind. I’m glad my help was useful.”
“I won’t forget your kindness. If you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to ask. I’ll help as much as I can.”
“Thank you. I will call on you if anything happens.”
Marius nodded in satisfaction at my words, then shifted his gaze to the Twilight Moonbow members behind me.
“Thank you all of the Twilight Moonbow for your help in resolving this crisis. Please enjoy today’s party.”
After praising them, he hesitated briefly, then seemed to steel himself and spoke again.
“—Sophia.”
“Y-yes!”
Sophie looked surprised and somewhat confused when Marius called her name.