The Royal Library

Upon returning to the mansion, Vim shut himself in his study and began devouring books. The house was reasonably well-stocked with grimoires and books on general knowledge. Specifically, Vim was scouring texts regarding the Labyrinth.

Immortality—the power he had obtained when he conquered the deepest depths of the Labyrinth. It was a power akin to a curse. He hoped he might be able to unravel the mystery behind this curse-like ability.

“No luck here either, huh…”

Vim closed the book he had finished reading and stared at the ceiling. Just then, he heard a knock on the study door.

“Master Vim, may I come in?”

“Yeah. Go ahead.”

Aria entered the room carrying a teapot.

“Studying again? You’ve only just returned, Master Vim; it’s alright to rest once in a while, you know.”

“Thanks. But I’m making sure to sleep, so I’m fine.”

Vim was the type of person who couldn’t stay calm unless he was doing something. Days where he did absolutely nothing were rare.

“I’ll leave the tea here, so please make sure to drink it.”

“Mm, thanks. By the way, is there anywhere else that has more books than this place?”

This mansion held several thousand volumes. All of them had been gathered for him by His Majesty.

“Let me see… if you’re looking for more than this, I suppose only the Royal Library would suffice. There should be tens of thousands of volumes there.”

“Is it open to anyone?”

“No, only those of noble rank or higher may use it. However, I believe you would be permitted, Master Vim. Shall I look into making the arrangements?”

An S-rank adventurer held a significant position. After all, there were only a few dozen of them in the entire world.

“Please do.”

“Understood.”

The next morning, Aria spoke to Vim as soon as he woke up.

“Master Vim, permission to use the Royal Library has been granted. They said you may use it whenever you like.”

“Got it. I’ll head over right away. Thanks, Aria.”

With that, Vim set off for the Royal Palace.

“This is the library, sir.”

Upon his arrival at the palace, a court librarian guided him.

“There are approximately 50,000 volumes in this section. That room over there contains another 20,000. If you are looking for a specific book, please let me know. I have the locations memorized.”

“Thank you. I’ll take you up on that.”

As expected of the Royal Library, the sheer number of books was incredible. For the time being, Vim began devouring every book he could find on the Labyrinth, curses, and magic.

“Nothing here, either…”

He couldn’t find any particularly new information. It was all data he had read somewhere else before.

“Studying, are we?”

While he was reading at a desk in the library, someone spoke to him from behind.

“Your Majesty!”

Vim turned around to find the King standing there. He instinctively started to stand up.

“Now, now, stay seated. I’m impressed by your dedication to your studies.”

As he spoke, the King took a seat in the chair opposite Vim.

“There’s something I’m curious about—or rather, something I want to know. Though I’m having a hard time reaching the answer,” Vim said with a wry smile.

“What are you researching currently?”

“Labyrinths and curses, mostly. Do you happen to know anyone who is an expert in those fields?”

“Hmm…” The King placed a hand on his chin and began to think. “Count Dion might know something. He is a scholar so brilliant I’ve often wished to have him here at court.”

Count Dion was the Lord of the Town of Baron. Vim had met him once before. If the King wanted him at court, he must be exceptionally polymathic.

“Thank you. I think I’ll pay Count Dion a visit in the near future.”

“Very well. I hope you find what you are looking for.”

Knowing Count Dion, he would likely be delighted to receive a visit. After reading a few more books that caught his interest, Vim took his leave of the Royal Palace.