落とし穴外伝：冬のお休み (Part1)
Pitfall Gaiden: Winter Break
Winter Break
Side: Yuki
We are currently using a gate within Weed to head towards the resort area. By the way, for safety management, all gates are basically thick concrete buildings with similar interiors and no windows.
"Ah, it's still such a strange sensation, isn't it? The scenery hasn't changed at all, yet we've moved locations."
"Well, that's the point."
By doing so, the gates are built robustly enough to withstand attacks from hostile forces outside, and in the unlikely event they are breached and occupied, we can contain them by changing the transfer destination to a defensive facility. Furthermore, while we can fully grasp the enemy's position and movements through my Dungeon Master abilities and installed surveillance cameras, intruders will have their vision severely restricted. Well, if we didn't take such measures, we could easily be invaded using the gates, so these safety precautions are necessary.
As I discussed such things with Taiki, we exited the gate facility and...
"Wow, amazing, amazing! It's full of snow!"
"Yes, there's a lot piled up."
"...Ugh, I'm not supposed to say it's cold here, am I?"
"You'll warm up once you start playing."
Aside from Labyris, who was bundled up warmly, Aslin and the others joyfully rushed outside, gazing at the surrounding scenery and frolicking. Yes, what we visited this time was a snow-covered mountain. Passing through the tunnel... no, the gate, revealed a snowy landscape. And even now, snow was falling deeply.
"I knew it, but with this much snow falling, there'll be no problem playing."
"Indeed. It would be a shame to come for snow play and find no snow."
"Truly."
Yes, lately I often hear stories from Japan about ski resorts being unable to operate due to lack of snow. I can't help but think the environment must be changing.
As I pondered about Japan, we moved towards the hotel where we were scheduled to stay today. Of course, I had informed my wives about our destination for this holiday, so each of them seemed to be enjoying themselves...
"Ah, I'll probably just soak in the open-air bath and play games all day."
"Sounds good. I think I'll do that too."
No, some of my wives. Specifically, Agil and Comet seemed fully intent on staying indoors.
"What a waste, coming all the way to a snowy mountain. Why is that?"
When Noriko, who had come with us, asked the question I also had...
"Ah, we've been doing surveys in the snowy mountains of the Great Mountain Range. We're completely fed up with snow. Well, if Yuki absolutely insists on playing with me, then fine?"
I see, now that I think about it, they've been cooped up in snowy mountains for work, so it's probably nothing new for Agil and Comet. In fact, blizzards so severe you can't see the end of your outstretched hand are commonplace there, and snow is nothing but an impediment to their work, so they might even resent it.
"See? Come on, husband, you should cooperate so your wives can fully enjoy themselves."
"Yeah, yeah. I want to play with everyone too."
"See? Even Havia is saying so."
...I certainly wouldn't say, "Are the ghost duo planning to cause a rescue mission by playing in the snow?" If I carelessly said something like that, they might actually do it, and I know how to read the room. More than anything...
"Of course. Agil, let's play together. That should be fine for a little while, right?"
"Hmm. If my husband insists that much, I'll go along with it. What about you, Comet?"
"It'd be boring by myself, so I'll join. Besides, Hifi and Taizo look like they're getting along well together."
Where Comet's gaze fell, Taizo and Hifi, who had been properly invited, were there, seemingly enjoying the snowy landscape in affectionate harmony. Even Comet didn't seem so boorish as to interrupt a couple's intimate moment.
"But of course, you'll have to keep me company properly tonight."
Comet grinned, saying this. We understood the meaning of that smile. Yes, it was definitely about 'Pokémon battles'. Often, on holiday nights like these, 'tournaments' are held. Although it's a minor league, most of my wives participate and compete in skill. Moreover, this time, a remake had just been released, so everyone was starting on equal footing.
Of course, Taiki too...
"Hmph hmph hmph, I won't lose. Or rather, will it be another winning streak for me?"
"You're quite confident, Hero. But this time, we're using the remake that just came out, and you can't transfer from the old game. So, in terms of conditions, I, who can dedicate ample time daily, have the advantage, don't I?"
"...I understand what you're saying, but... is that alright, Yuki?"
"Ah, it's fine as long as they're doing their work properly. That said, it's not something you can win simply by dedicating time. The accumulation of past experience is what truly matters there."
Yes, a Pokémon battle isn't decided solely by the time spent on that particular software. It's the accumulated time spent on all previous Pokémon titles that truly matters. And of course, battle experience is also a great asset. The skill of reading an opponent's thoughts and strategizing can only be gained through battles. And the courage to make a move that seems impossible is necessary.
With all those various thoughts, I glared at Comet.
"Hehehehehe..."
Smiles escaped us both, vowing never to lose...
*Whack!*
Just as the excitement was building, I suddenly got smacked on the head.
"Honestly, what are you doing? Playing in the snow is more important than a game tournament tonight."
Turning at the scolding voice, I saw Seraria standing akimbo, an exasperated look on her face.
"Besides, wasn't the whole point of this trip to act as a bridge between the goddesses and them?"
Seraria said this, moving only her gaze sideways. At the end of her gaze, looking at the snow-covered mountain...
"This is... quite something..."
"It's amazing. Completely white everywhere."
"Full of snow~! But how do we play in a place like this~?"