第４４３堀：だんじょんの説明とゆうしゃとは？ (Part1)
**Chapter 443: Explaining Dungeons and the Meaning of a Hero**
**Side: Comet**
"So, you are the Dungeon Master collaborating with Yuki-dono. I am Nonoa, the Goddess of Magic. It is a pleasure to meet you."
"Oh, hey there. I’m Comet."
Man, life really doesn't go the way you expect it to, does it? I thought I was going to have some brilliant, spotlight-stealing moment, but here I am, having spent my time watching hilarious videos instead. Ever since I teamed up with Yuki-kun, I can’t help but feel like I’ve been relegated to the comic relief role when I’m not doing research.
As for Taizo-san and the others... what was it? The "Bitch Princess"? Once it became clear that she was making various moves, they left the rest to me, Popuri, and Eris-kun, and headed straight back to Weed.
Well, the situation is deteriorating, after all. We thought we were dealing with rational actors, but it’s highly likely this is all fueled by nothing but petty grudges. And that Bitch Princess is so self-centered that there’s no telling what she might do next. If things go poorly, there’s a risk of damage spreading to the Sword Kingdom of Nogosh, or places like Ranks and Gartz that already hold a grudge against us. Everyone’s in a panic, so they had no choice but to leave.
As an enemy of the state, she isn't much, but as a threat to the general populace, you couldn't ask for anything worse. Ah, wait—she’s probably a significant threat to the state as well, considering she’s wielding the power of a Dungeon Master.
Still, against Weed, the difference in accumulated magical power and technological level is so vast that she doesn't stand a chance. But other nations aren't as fortunate, which is why Yuki-kun is frantically issuing orders.
Yeah. He truly lives up to the title of a calamity that surpasses the Demon King.
"Um, Comet-dono? Is something the matter?"
"Oh, no, sorry. I was just thinking about the Bitch Princess."
"Ah, I see. Indeed, looking at the information on Bits-hime, one never knows what she might do."
*Oh, it’s 'Bits'. Right. Got it. Bitch... no, Bits. Perfect.*
"Well, as for that, the Ta... that returned..."
"Ta?"
"The team led by Yuki-dono is already moving. My apprentice and I should focus on the work entrusted to us."
*That was close. Way too close.* I still had the "Yuki-kun" setting for Taizo-san in my head. I personally think it’s fine to reveal it now, but Yuki-kun and Hifie warned me not to mess it up, or the alliance might fall apart.
*Popuri’s quick save was brilliant!* As expected of my apprentice! Though, I don't remember ever teaching her how to cover for me like that. Did I pull it off? Is this the turning point of my destiny?
"Yes. I look forward to working with you."
*Safe!* I slid into home plate by a hair! In the bottom of the ninth, two outs, runners on second—Popuri’s timely hit exploded! My risky lead, which could have gotten me picked off, actually paid off, and Comet successfully makes it home! Team Comet secures a brilliant come-from-behind victory!
"...Honestly, Master, you were the one who created the crisis with your own error."
"Shut it."
"Pardon?"
"Ah, nothing. Let’s get to work. First, we need to fortify the Magic Kingdom immediately."
"Fortify, you say...? My apologies. I believe I have already prepared it sufficiently..."
*Well, you did let Yuki-kun and the others seize your castle without much trouble, didn't you?* But I suppose with this level of civilization, all they can think of is increasing the number of guards...
"I will explain that as well, so first, please follow me..."
I led her down into the deeper parts of the dungeon—or rather, the one I’d improvised. Naturally, it was a dungeon I’d built on the fly right beneath the castle. Taizo-san and the others had already withdrawn from here, leaving me behind to handle the explanations, reinforcements, and consulting. Since this is the Magic Kingdom, they probably figured we experts would have an easier time with it.
"To think there was such a place here... I can certainly feel the flow of magic unique to a dungeon. However, it is strange that one wouldn't notice it while inside the castle."
"It’s the same principle as having many ventilation shafts. Plus, castles are naturally built in strategic locations, so the land’s inherent magical energy is often excellent. Reports show that this actually makes it harder to notice."
"By reports, do you mean from Yuki-dono?"
"Yes. He’s the only one who would think to turn a castle into a dungeon. I always thought dungeons had to be underground, so it was impossible for me to conceive. The magic absorption efficiency drops, and as you can see, there are too many entrances, making it completely unsuitable for defense."
Actually, back then, I didn't want connections with other nations, and if I’d turned my castle into a dungeon for the sake of my secret research, it would have just become a beacon. Even if I’d thought of it back then, I would have scrapped the idea immediately.
"I see. Indeed, I shared that same perception. I thought dungeons belonged underground. I understand your point about defense as well. Does 'fortification' mean moving our residence into the dungeon?"
"Ah, I’ll leave that to your judgment. It’s highly secure and perfect for living. However, it would be best to keep this place known only to the guards you’ve brought and the Prime Minister. If others find out, it will only incite unnecessary anxiety, and if it reaches the ears of Bits-hime or the Nogosh faction, it will cause trouble."
"That is true. However, if moving our residence is not the goal, what exactly does 'fortification' entail?"
"That is... ah, we’ve arrived. First, let’s go into this room."
I touched the marble pillar placed in front of the door. It was at the perfect height to rest a hand on. The door opened automatically.
"Is this a mechanism that opens based on individual magical recognition? It’s like a Guild Card."
"Exactly. As expected of the Goddess of Magic, you’re a quick study."
"No. Even if I understand it, I could never build it. But such a defensive mechanism is wonderful. It cannot be picked or forced open. The safety aspect is incredible."
"Well, the downside is that if the authorized users die out, it will never open again, but let’s set that aside. First, please touch this core."
I brushed off the explanation of the door and urged Nonoa-dono to touch the core at the back of the room.
"Eh? Is that not the core that powers this dungeon? To touch it..."
"No, it’s perfectly fine to just touch it. Moving it from the pedestal would stop the dungeon’s functions, but just touching it is fine."
"If there is such a risk, then I certainly cannot..."
"Ah, no. I’m about to transfer the authority of this dungeon to you, so I need you to touch it."
"Huh?"
Nonoa-dono’s eyes went wide. That’s the normal reaction, isn't it? It’s only natural to be stunned when someone casually offers you the dungeon you’ve been wanting. Especially since we were just on opposing sides until a moment ago.
"Oh, don't worry. I’ll be placing restrictions on the authority, of course. But it’s a problem if you can’t do anything while we aren't here. So, Yuki-kun asked me to grant you a certain level of authority over the dungeon, and for you to order and arrange the supplies necessary to fortify this castle. Oh, and there’s already a decent amount of DP in there, so you can order things without any issues."
"Y-you would entrust such a major role to me!?"