Don't Want to Be Ordinary Even Though I'm an Extra Character

Over time, during this long journey, I kept trying to ease the tension between us—not only with Rainer but also with the group of mercenaries I'd hired. Light conversations, small jokes, and everyday stories became part of our routine.

To my surprise, Rainer began to show subtle changes. Though he remained quiet and distant, there were moments when he joined our conversations.

Finally, after days of traveling along rocky roads, through forests, and across sprawling grasslands, we arrived at the border of Marquis Arleon's territory. The scenery changed drastically. The once-simple trail transformed into a broader path, paved neatly with stones.

Entering the Marquis' domain, the difference was striking.

Vast green fields stretched as far as the eye could see, interspersed with patches of wildflowers that seemed well cared for. In the distance, small, prosperous villages dotted the landscape, with sturdy stone houses and fields teeming with abundant crops.

Along the way, we passed a guard post. Several soldiers in armor stood vigil, inspecting every traveler.

One soldier approached our wagon, his gaze sharp and attentive. "What is your purpose in the Marquis' territory?"

I handed him an invitation letter from Marquis Arleon, which he promptly took and inspected. After a few moments, he nodded and returned the letter.

"You may proceed. The Marquis' manor is about half a day's journey from here."

I nodded politely. "Thank you."

As we continued on toward the Marquis' manor, I knew it was time to conclude my dealings with the mercenaries who had accompanied me throughout this journey. Our contract was ending here.

Passing through the main gate into the manor's outer courtyard, I stopped the wagon and disembarked. Garren, Mila, and Rudolph followed closely behind, their usual alert but relaxed demeanor intact.

I retrieved a small pouch of coins from my bag, loosening its strings to confirm the amount: 50 silver coins.

"Alright," I began, looking at them. "As per our agreement, here's your payment. Honestly, this job was far more dangerous than I anticipated. But I'm deeply grateful for your presence. Without you, I doubt I would have made it here safely."

I handed the coin pouch to Garren, the leader of their group. He took it without hesitation, quickly inspecting its contents before nodding in satisfaction.

"Fifty silver coins," he said. "That's a generous amount. You're truly a man of your word, Arkan."

I gave a small smile. "I believe it's a fair price for your lives. What you've done was far more dangerous than ordinary adventuring work. You've earned every coin."

Mila gave me a curious look, though there was a faint smile on her face. "Not many people value us like that. Most treat us like tools to be rented and discarded."

Rudolph, still recovering from his wounds, simply nodded silently. "You're different. That's clear."

Garren grinned, tucking the coin pouch into his bag. "Well, I hope we can work together again someday. You're an interesting person to work for, even if a bit… eccentric with your modern ways."

I chuckled. "If you're still willing after all this, I'll definitely call on you again."

We shook hands one by one, and for a moment, I felt that although our relationship was bound by a contract, there was genuine mutual respect between us.

"Take care of yourself, Arkan," Mila said, slinging her bow across her shoulder. "And I hope that Marquis doesn't give you a headache."

I laughed. "That's my hope too."

The three of them then walked away, their carefree yet sharp attitudes unchanged. I stood still, watching their figures gradually disappear into the distance.

Although they were mere mercenaries, I owed them more than I could express. This journey would never have succeeded without them.

I took a deep breath and turned to face the grand Marquis manor. Now it was time to step into the next chapter.

After handing the invitation letter to the manor guard, he examined it carefully, frowning slightly as if something was amiss.

"My apologies," he said politely but firmly. "The Marquis just left the manor. He has urgent matters in the territory and is expected to return tomorrow morning."

I nodded, accepting the news calmly. I had anticipated something like this. A noble like Marquis Arleon would undoubtedly have numerous responsibilities, and sudden matters requiring his attention were hardly unusual.

"No problem," I replied politely. "I'll wait until tomorrow morning."

After finishing my business with the guard, I turned to Rainer, who stood a little distance behind me.

"What about you, Rainer?" I asked.

He looked at me with his usual blank expression before shrugging slightly. "I… I'll just wait. Maybe I'll find an inn in the nearby town to rest."

I nodded, though I was slightly surprised. It was the first time Rainer had shown any inclination to distance himself from me. But I understood; he preferred to keep his distance unless there was a compelling reason to stay close.

"Alright," I finally said. "Let's meet here again tomorrow morning."

Without a word, he turned slowly and walked down the path leading to the nearby town.

I sighed and turned back to the attendant summoned by the guard to escort me to a temporary lodging.

The following morning, I put on the best clothing I'd brought—neat yet simple attire, appropriate enough for meeting a noble like Marquis Arleon.

Though the grand banquet would take place later that evening, I hoped to address my business with the Marquis directly beforehand, bypassing any unnecessary formalities. I'd never been comfortable at large gatherings.

Adjusting my collar in the small mirror hanging on the wall of the guestroom, I let out a long sigh. Noble banquets always felt convoluted and full of empty pleasantries. And honestly, it wasn't just the atmosphere that put me off.

Big parties reminded me of something bitter from my past.

I tried to push the memory away, but it surfaced nonetheless. Back in college, I'd attended a lavish party, invited by a friend with seemingly good intentions.

But it turned out to be a trap. I was made the butt of jokes by people who found me strange and different—too serious, too enthusiastic about trivial things, and unable to enjoy their idea of fun.

That night ended in burning humiliation, and ever since, I'd always felt uncomfortable in crowds filled with stares and laughter that seemed insincere.

Leaning against the wall, I closed my eyes for a moment, forcing the memories back into the recesses of my mind.

"Focus, Arkan," I muttered to myself. "This is a big opportunity. There's no time for irrelevant thoughts now."

I looked at the mirror again, ensuring everything was in order before stepping out of the guestroom and heading toward the manor's main hall.