《Solo Dungeon Streamer-I Am Overpowered》


 Chapter 1: The Reluctant Explorer

    "Taking on a request in the middle of a weekday¡­ Ugh, what a pain in the butt."


    It''s been about 70 years since these fantasy-like dungeons started appearing all over the world. At least, that''s what they taught us in World History A, which focuses on modern times. Honestly, I don''t really get it. They should just make a separate class called Dungeon History or something. Not that it matters to me since I barely pay attention in class anyway.


    Apparently, it''s been about 70 years since humanity first started conquering dungeons. But for someone like me, who just explores dungeons to get by, it''s all irrelevant¡­ or at least, it should be. I might''ve learned something about it in a training seminar or whatever, but I was too shocked by how few people were actually paying attention to remember any of it.


    "Good job out there!"


    "Great work, as always!"


    "You''re amazing!"


    As I emerge from the dungeon back to the surface, I''m greeted by a swarm of overly polite Dungeon Association staff. They seem a bit tense, though. I mean, come on, I''m just a high school student. They could be a little more casual with me. But if I told them that, they''d probably just freak out and apologize, so whatever.


    I get it; they''re public servants. It''s part of the job.


    "EX-Rank Explorer, UNKNOWN, returning!"


    "¡­So embarrassing."


    "Right this way, please. The branch manager is expecting you."


    Ugh, it''s so cringy. I should really change my registered name. Why did I submit it blank two years ago? And why do they insist on calling me by my explorer name? I''d much prefer if they just used my real name.


    "Hey, hey! That was fast again, huh?"


    "I just like to get work done quickly."


    "We really appreciate it, Tsukasa Kisaragi."


    "¡­Thanks."


    As I enter the room, I''m greeted by a young man with a suspiciously friendly smile. He stands up immediately and offers me a handshake. I take it, but seriously, that forced business smile is more like a creepy stalker grin.


    "I knew you were the right person for the job. All the other reliable explorers were busy, and if I sent in someone mediocre and they failed, it''d be on me."


    "Yeah, sure. But calling a student out in the middle of a weekday like it''s no big deal¡­ Not cool, man."


    "Don''t worry about it. That''s why you''re enrolled in a private high school with a more flexible schedule, right?"


    "Actually, I got my explorer license after I started high school."


    Is this guy even listening to himself? At first, I thought he was just flattering me, but now it''s clear he''s just talking nonsense. And I''m not impressed. It''s basically like having a high schooler do an adult''s job. Even if I am an EX-rank explorer, there are limits, you know? I could sue this guy for exploiting me.


    No wonder they''re always short-staffed.


    Not that complaining in my head is going to solve the staffing issue. And this guy is just another cog in the machine of the Dungeon Association, probably struggling in his own way. Not that I trust his sketchy smile, though.


    "I''ll make sure the payment is transferred to your account, so rest easy."


    "Thanks."


    "Haha¡­ With that much money, you could probably buy whatever you want, huh?"


    "Maybe¡­ Yeah, I guess so."


    "You''re so humble."


    "If you think this is humble, you might want to see a doctor or visit the labor board."


    The Dungeon Association really thinks money solves everything. They should be questioning the fact that they''re making a high schooler work. Yeah, I agreed to it when I became EX-rank, but still.


    Ugh¡­ This is such a pain. I wish there was someone else who could take on my jobs, so I could just relax, go to school, and sleep soundly at home. Can''t a new EX-rank explorer just show up already?


    Since dungeons started appearing around the world, human life has supposedly changed drastically. Supposedly, because I was born after dungeons and society became intertwined, so I have no idea what life was like before.


    Dungeons are filled with resources essential for human survival. Whether it''s rare metals or exotic foods no one''s ever tasted, dungeons are a goldmine. But the main attraction is the magic stones you can get from defeating the monsters inside.


    Yeah¡­ Dungeons are full of monsters. These grotesque creatures that used to only exist in stories drop magic stones when you kill them¡ªor sometimes they don''t. Anyway, a few decades ago, some genius figured out how to use these stones for energy or something. I don''t really get the technical stuff.


    After that, countries around the world started pouring all their resources into conquering dungeons. At first, they couldn''t handle monsters that bullets didn''t even scratch, but eventually, kids started being born with something they called "magic power." Nobody knows why, but it turns out you can fight monsters if you have magic power.


    So naturally, governments started rounding up anyone who had it.


    It''s been decades since dungeons first appeared, but to be honest, the world''s kind of stagnated. The reason is simple: dungeon conquests have pretty much stalled. They say there are about 500 dungeons worldwide, but less than 20 have been cleared all the way to the final floor. That''s less than 4%.


    The reason for the slow progress is that there are fewer people trying to conquer dungeons. And by that, I mean there are fewer people aiming for the final floor, not just those going in to make a quick buck. Nowadays, those who try are seen as thrill-seeking fools or reckless idiots.


    I''ve rambled on, but the gist is that dungeons exist, and while there were some benefits to conquering them at first, now we don''t need to reach the final floor to solve the energy crisis or keep the economy running. So, there''s no demand for it anymore.


    It''s a tough world¡­ We finally solved the energy crisis, but now there''s no progress.


    "...Sigh."


    I let out a sigh as I look at the money in my bank account. It''s not like I don''t have enough. I''ve got assets worth tens of times what a regular salaryman makes in a lifetime. But I don''t have anything to spend it on, and honestly, I''d trade it all for a more laid-back life.


    I''m earning a lot, but I''m also spending it, trying to keep the economy moving. My place is pretty high-end, and I own multiple properties and land in Tokyo, Japan''s capital. I even bought a top-of-the-line PC just for fun and dine at fancy restaurants once a week. But the thing is, Japan''s economy is a joke. The more money you have, the more it just keeps piling up.


    Plus, since I regularly dive into dungeons, I make more than I spend. Even after taxes, I could easily live a life of luxury.


    "It''s not like having too much money is a problem, but this isn''t exactly a typical high schooler''s dilemma¡­"


    Even though I make good money in dungeons, I''ve always thought that a higher education couldn''t hurt, so I''m attending a private high school that''s better than average. But between school and all the requests I get from the Dungeon Association, I''m barely scraping by on attendance. The season when everyone''s talking about summer break is almost here, but I''m always working.


    If anything, I get more requests during the break.


    My homeroom teacher, who knows my situation, says I should just become a full-time explorer after graduation instead of going to college. Despite being a high schooler, I was already a socially awkward loner, and thanks to all the work, I can''t even make it to school half the time. I don''t have any friends, and of course, no girlfriend or anyone I''m interested in.


    I hardly go to school, so I don''t even know any girls my age.


    I''ve got money, but does that make me a winner or a loser in life? I can''t really tell.


    I don''t have any parents or a proper guardian, so I guess I could live however I want¡­ But I don''t even have the energy for that anymore. I''m starting to sound like a burned-out office worker, but I really miss the days when I could just explore dungeons without a care in the world. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If only I''d made more of an effort to make friends or find a party when I first became an explorer¡­ Would I be living a more fun life now? Nah, no way¡­ A socially awkward loner like me couldn''t pull that off.


    Thinking about impossible things is stressing me out¡­ Maybe I''ll blow off some steam in a dungeon.


    The dungeon I chose to blow off steam in is the "Shibuya Dungeon," the closest one to both my house and school. Actually, I mostly operate around this dungeon.


    The Shibuya Dungeon is located in Tokyo, Japan''s capital. It''s a famous dungeon, both for its difficulty and for its convenient location, attracting a lot of challengers. Even with all those people diving in, though, it still hasn''t been fully cleared.


    The dungeon is an underground labyrinth right beneath Shibuya Station. People often wonder why it had to appear in a place that''s already a maze to navigate. The dungeon entrance and the Dungeon Association''s branch office are located at the deepest part of Shibuya Station¡­ Seriously, who thought it was a good idea to build a dungeon under a dungeon?


    Not that anyone knows who or why these dungeons were created anyway. It''s an eternal mystery.


    "Today, I''m challenging the lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon for the first time!"


    As I delve into the dungeon to blow off steam, I hear a loud voice echoing from a distance. Lately, I''ve been seeing people like this talking to themselves in dungeons¡­ What the heck are they doing? Talking to yourself in a dungeon just attracts monsters. It''s not like anything good comes from it.


    "They say the lower floors are uncharted territory, but I''ll be fine! There aren''t many people streaming from the lower floors of Shibuya Dungeon, so I know you''re all curious!"


    I catch the words about challenging the lower floors. Dungeons are categorized by their floors, and the areas explorers can access are determined by their "Explorer Rank."


    The terminology varies by dungeon and country, but in Japan''s Shibuya Dungeon, the floors are divided as follows: Floors 1-10 are the Top Floors, 11-20 are the Upper Floors, 21-40 are the Mid Floors, 41-60 are the Lower Floors, and anything beyond Floor 61 is the Deep Floors. So right now, I''m standing at the boundary between the Mid Floors and the Lower Floors, which is Floor 40.


    "Alright, let''s go! You''re all witnesses to history in the making¡ªjust kidding!"


    While I''m thinking random thoughts, at my feet is a beast that looks like a wolf, yawning lazily with its yellow fur swaying. Just like its master, this creature seems pretty relaxed here at the bottom of the Mid Floors. It''s probably because we can easily handle the monsters in this area.


    Seriously, this wolf looks even more bored than I am. It was just fighting monsters a minute ago, and now it''s acting like it''s got nothing to do.


    "Ready to head back?"


    In response to my question, the wolf purrs and closes its eyes, but then it suddenly perks up, sensing something, and dashes straight towards the stairs leading to the Lower Floors.


    Honestly, I don''t think it''s cool for a shikigami to just run off without its master, but I''ve known this one the longest out of all my shikigami, so I guess it''s fine¡­ At this point, it''s basically like having a pet dog.


    "Guess I''ve got no choice¡­"


    Even so, I can''t just leave my shikigami unattended, so I start following it at a leisurely pace. It''s the middle of a weekday, so this is probably the time when there are the fewest people in the dungeon. Even if a yellow wolf is running around, it probably won''t draw much attention.


    I mean, there are way more monstrous-looking creatures in this dungeon, and beyond the Lower Floors, it''s basically a den of horrors. If someone catches a glimpse of my shikigami, no big deal. We''ll manage somehow.


    Little did I know that this laid-back attitude would lead to all sorts of trouble later on. But at that moment, as I yawned and walked, I had no way of predicting any of it.

 Chapter 2: Dungeon Streamer Asagao

    In recent years, the hottest trend in both dungeon exploration and everyday society has been dungeon streamers.


    Dungeon streamers are individuals who use magically powered cameras, designed to follow a specified target, to film and broadcast their adventures inside dungeons. Lately, these streamers have gained popularity by live streaming their dungeon exploits, similar to game streamers, showing real-time dungeon raids and battles.


    Though dungeons have become an integral part of human society, surprisingly few people actually know what goes on inside them. Sure, schools teach that dungeons provide valuable resources, but the reality is that entering one often means risking your life against deadly monsters. Even those with exceptional magical abilities can meet a quick end if they let their guard down.


    Not many are willing to take that chance.


    And that''s exactly why dungeon streaming became such a hit with the general public.


    Even though people learn about dungeons and their resources in school, no one truly knows the details because media outlets can''t just waltz in and film inside. Dungeon streamers, however, capture the gritty, dangerous reality of dungeons, including crucial strategy insights and intense combat footage. Naturally, the demand for this thrilling content has skyrocketed.


    Viewers, bored with their mundane lives, find an escape in the adrenaline-fueled streams.


    As soon as one person found success, it was only a matter of time before hordes of others followed suit, seeking fame and fortune through ads and donations in the world of dungeon streaming.


    But as more and more people jumped into dungeon streaming, viewers became spread out. So, streamers started pushing the envelope, trying new things.


    Unlike with game streaming, where streamers might play niche games to stand out, dungeon streamers took a different route. They began competing to see who could delve the deepest into the dungeons. At first, most streams were from the top floors, but soon they ventured into the upper floors, mid floors, and eventually the lower floors.


    This ultimately led to a stagnation in dungeon streaming.


    The reason was simple:


    The monsters in the mid and lower floors were on a completely different level.


    One day, a popular streamer who had been fighting on the frontlines of the mid floors got cocky and ventured into the lower floors during a live stream¡ªonly to die in front of thousands of viewers. His overconfidence led to his demise as he was instantly reduced to a pile of meat by the more powerful monsters.


    Since that incident, dungeon streamers have been stuck on the mid floors.


    Initially, governments welcomed dungeon streaming with open arms, hoping it would lead to more resources entering the country. But after the incident where a popular streamer died in the lower floors, stricter regulations were imposed on dungeon exploration. This led to the creation of the "Explorer Rank" system, which dictates how deep one can venture into a dungeon.


    Years have passed since the introduction of the Explorer Rank, and dungeon streaming has continued to stagnate.


    Popular dungeon streamer "Asagao" had reached the bottom of the mid floors. For a dungeon streamer, this was the ultimate limit.


    Since the death of that popular streamer years ago, no one had dared to venture into the lower floors during a live stream. It was a matter of both rank and survival.


    "Alright, everyone¡­ I''ve finally been recognized as a C-Rank Explorer! So today, I''m going to challenge the forbidden territory for streamers¡­ I''m heading into the lower floors of the ''Shibuya Dungeon'' for the first time!"


    Chat:


    : Is she gonna be okay?


    : I''m kinda worried¡­


    : She''s been handling the mid floors just fine, though. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : ¡ü You''re underestimating the dungeon, noob.


    : If it''s the Shibuya Dungeon''s lower floors, she might manage.


    : She''s got this.


    : If Asagao can''t do it, no streamer can! lol


    : The lower floors are seriously unknown territory.


    Asagao brushed a lock of her black hair out of her face as she glanced at the chat comments scrolling by on her wrist-mounted device, separate from the magic stone camera that was filming her. Seeing the mix of concern and curiosity, she couldn''t help but chuckle.


    "They say the lower floors are uncharted territory, but I''ll be fine! Hardly anyone''s streamed from the lower floors of Shibuya Dungeon, so I know you''re all curious, right?"


    Chat:


    : Yeah, can''t deny that.


    : I''m curious!


    : I mean¡­ yeah, who wouldn''t be?


    Even though some viewers expressed concern, the allure of the lower floors was undeniable. Statistically speaking, more than half of all explorers never make it past the top floors, so the lower floors are like a distant dream.


    Asagao, with her extraordinary reflexes, easily kept up with the fast-flowing chat as she smiled at the screen.


    "See? You guys are curious too. So no backing out, okay?"


    Chat:


    : Okayyy¡­


    : I''m still worried, though.


    : Just don''t get hurt!


    : Even if you enter the lower floors, just retreat to the mid floors ASAP.


    "Alright then, let''s go! You''re all witnesses to history in the making¡ªjust kidding!"


    Chat:


    : Cute!


    : So adorable!


    : Too cute, I''m dead.


    : Is she not the cutest?


    Asagao, a current high school girl, had gained immense popularity thanks to her good looks and her unparalleled skills as an explorer. While other streamers needed teams to conquer the mid floors, she did it solo. Even among professional explorers, few could pull off such a feat.


    Chat:


    : But at this point, isn''t dungeon exploring more profitable than streaming?


    : No doubt about it.


    : If you''re risking your life, it better be worth it.


    Dungeon streamers rarely ventured past the mid floors, not only because of the increased danger but also because by that point, they could make a comfortable living. With the money they earned, there was little incentive to risk their lives in the lower floors. However, Asagao simply smiled at the comments.


    "But where''s the fun in that?"


    Chat:


    : This girl''s got a dungeon addiction.


    : It''s like she''s hooked on it.


    : But I heard the number of explorers is decreasing.


    : Yeah, you''ve gotta reach the mid floors to cover your expenses.


    : Equipment is way too expensive.


    : But I don''t wanna die, though.


    : At that point, being a corporate slave seems better.


    Asagao knew from the comments that she was one of the outliers. Risking your life just for money was the mark of a madman. As a result, modern people, with their focus on stability, tended to steer clear of becoming dungeon explorers.


    But while modern society gravitated towards stability, the infrastructure that kept the country running relied heavily on magic stones for energy and products. This was why the government didn''t just allow but actually encouraged dungeon streaming, despite its dangers. They hoped it would inspire more people to consider becoming dungeon explorers in the future.


    Asagao, however, was in the dungeons purely to satisfy her own curiosity. Her willingness to risk her life as a high school girl made her seem unhinged to most. But her viewers knew how much resolve and dedication she had put into her dungeon exploration, which was why they kept coming back to support her¡ªeven when she was on the brink of death.


    "Kuh!"


    Chat:


    : Are you okay!?


    : This is bad.


    : Run, run!


    : Told you, the lower floors are no joke!


    : Is this the end for another popular streamer?


    : That''s what happens when you underestimate the dungeon.


    As Asagao descended the stairs from the mid floors to the lower floors, an area where almost no streamer dared to go, she started the stream with her usual upbeat demeanor. But as she ventured deeper, her confidence began to fade, and she spoke less and less.


    By the time she reached the first level of the lower floors, Floor 41, Asagao was already sensing the danger to her life. Her once-beautiful black hair was matted with her own dark, red blood, and the special material of her black robe was torn in several places.


    The chat was moving faster than ever, filled with people genuinely concerned for her safety, rubberneckers looking for drama, and trolls who had come to mock the possibility of someone dying live on stream. But Asagao had no time to keep up with the chat.


    "¡­It''s not following me?"


    Chat:


    : Looks like it''s not.


    : You should head back to the mid floors!


    : Running back to the mid floors while being chased by a monster is bad etiquette, though.


    : But they say it''s okay if you''re in mortal danger.


    : They covered that in the explorer training.


    : Lol, dungeon noobs in the chat.


    : Just get out of there already!


    Confirming that there were no monsters nearby, Asagao glanced at the chat before looking down at the broken spear she had relied on since she was a beginner.


    As a solo explorer, Asagao had no one to help her, no assistants, and no spare weapons.


    "Can I make it back to the mid floors with just magic?"


    Chat:


    : Take it slow and keep yourself safe.


    : Just try not to get into any more fights and stay low.


    : Use your ears, not your eyes, to detect enemies and move carefully.


    Reading the advice from what seemed to be veteran explorers in the chat, Asagao crouched low and started walking along the wall, trying to keep a low profile.


    Weak from blood loss and slightly unsteady on her feet, Asagao managed to find the stairs leading back to the mid floors, relying on her memory to avoid getting spotted by monsters.


    Chat:


    : Yes, let''s get out of here.


    : Hurry back to the top floors!


    : There might be people at the bottom of the mid floors!


    : Conserve your magic as much as possible.


    "¡­!"


    As soon as she spotted the stairs and let her guard down, Asagao suddenly sensed a presence behind her. She instinctively dove forward, not even thinking about how to land safely. As a searing pain shot through her back, she glared back and saw a half-transparent skeleton knight standing there.


    Chat:


    : A monster!?


    : Run!


    : Is that a skeleton?


    : This is really bad!


    "Gah!"


    Asagao tried to gather the strength to run, but when she saw blood dripping from the skeleton''s sword, she realized that she had been slashed across the back.


    She no longer had the stamina to run, nor the willpower to escape. Her magic reserves were nearly depleted, and the desperate fire spell she cast merely passed through the skeleton''s transparent body.


    "¡­Meeting a new monster in this situation¡­ I really have no luck."


    Chat:


    : Don''t give up!


    : She''s done for.


    : Came here from trending #1 ^^


    : Nooo!


    : Aaaahhh!


    The viewers could sense the impending doom in Asagao''s muttered words.


    The skeleton''s hollow eyes showed no emotion, only the intent to kill the human before it.


    Asagao, having resigned herself to her fate, pulled the floating camera closer with a self-deprecating smile.


    "I can''t stream something this gruesome, so I guess it''s time to end the stream¡­"


    Chat:


    : Don''t!


    : Run!


    : Someone go help her!


    : But no one can reach the lower floors¡­


    : Please survive!


    : No, no, no!


    "¡­Goodbye."


    As Asagao quietly whispered her farewell, her hand, weakened by exhaustion, failed to end the stream as it dropped limply to her side. As the cold sensation crept up from her extremities, she couldn''t help but smile.


    Just as the skeleton raised its sword, a crackling sound pierced the air, and a yellow wolf appeared, blasting the skeleton into oblivion. Shocked, Asagao''s eyes widened as she watched the wolf with a symbol on its forehead lick her wounds and howl.


    "Where did you run off to¡­? Oh, there you are¡ªwait, is she dead? No¡­ she''s alive, right? You followed the scent of blood? You scared me, Raijuu."


    "Woof!"


    "Yeah, yeah, I get it. I''ll help her, so stop barking so much."


    Asagao''s consciousness faded away to the sound of a voice that seemed far too carefree for a place as deadly as the lower floors.

 Chapter 3: Thread 1: Streaming Drama

    217: Anonymous Explorer


    Did she die?


    218: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, the stream hasn''t even stopped.


    219: Anonymous Explorer


    Not exactly a laughing matter, though¡­


    220: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone should go help her. She''ll definitely fall for you if you save her!


    221: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾220


    Like anyone''s going to the lower floors! You trying to get someone killed?!


    222: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾220


    This place is full of idiots who think they''re the strongest explorers.


    223: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ve got some weirdos here, huh?


    224: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course, we do. A popular streamer''s on the brink of death, and it''s trending #1 on social media.


    225: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like help arrived.


    226: Anonymous Explorer


    In the lower floors? Probably not another streamer, then.


    227: Anonymous Explorer


    Obviously not, lol.


    228: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care who it is, as long as they save Asagao!


    229: Anonymous Explorer


    Hopefully, she learned her lesson and stays out of the lower floors from now on.


    230: Anonymous Explorer


    The lower floors aren''t a joke. No way a streamer just playing around can clear them.


    231: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾230


    Oh look, a self-proclaimed dungeon expert.


    232: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾231


    Don''t feed the trolls. Just ignore them.


    233: Anonymous Explorer


    Are there really no streamers who can reach the lower floors?


    234: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾233


    Definitely none.


    235: Anonymous Explorer


    Whoever saved her looks like a monster, lol.


    I guess even monsters save people these days.


    236: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾233


    Asagao couldn''t do it, so it''s probably impossible.


    237: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾234


    £¾£¾236


    What about Kamishiro Rion?


    238: Anonymous Explorer


    Can we even call her a streamer?


    239: Anonymous Explorer


    She hasn''t streamed in over a year. Doesn''t really count as a streamer anymore.


    240: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank is a whole different level. And besides, she was just letting the footage run, not really streaming like Asagao.


    241: Anonymous Explorer


    Did they just say "Raijuu"?


    242: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe it''s a monster someone tamed?


    243: Anonymous Explorer


    Did the hero of this thread just emerge?


    244: Anonymous Explorer


    Total BS. Get lost.


    245: Anonymous Explorer


    Everyone here is just a basement-dwelling NEET making their parents cry.


    246: Anonymous Explorer


    You can tame monsters? Never heard of that before.


    247: Anonymous Explorer


    No way a monster saved her. That''s gotta be a lie.


    248: Anonymous Explorer


    As long as someone saved Asagao, I don''t care who it is.


    249: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s a guy, he''ll definitely act like her boyfriend.


    250: Anonymous Explorer


    No one would save her without ulterior motives.


    251: Anonymous Explorer


    And in the lower floors, no less?


    252: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾246


    I heard it''s possible if you have some insanely expensive specialized equipment or something.


    253: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s safe, so that''s all that matters.


    254: Anonymous Explorer


    If she''s not dead, then it''s not a broadcast disaster.


    255: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s still a total disaster, though.


    256: Anonymous Explorer


    Dungeon streaming is seriously dangerous.


    257: Anonymous Explorer


    Then don''t watch, idiot.


    258: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like the guy doesn''t even know what a camera is, lol.


    259: Anonymous Explorer


    Is he a caveman?


    260: Anonymous Explorer


    That actually made me laugh.


    261: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s inappropriate, but lol.


    262: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t know what a camera is¡ªmust be some kind of mole person.


    263: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably some native who lives in the dungeon.


    264: Anonymous Explorer


    If he doesn''t know about cameras, then he''s definitely not a streamer.


    265: Anonymous Explorer


    I told you, no streamer makes it down to Floor 40 or beyond.


    266: Anonymous Explorer


    But Asagao''s down there.


    267: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao''s an exception.


    268: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s insanely strong.


    269: Anonymous Explorer


    Whatever, I''m just here for the eye candy.


    270: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾269


    Get lost, trash.


    271: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, more weirdos crawling out.


    272: Anonymous Explorer


    Is she really a high school girl?


    273: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah.


    274: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone go stalk her; her info''s on the Explorer Association''s website, lol.


    275: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾274


    You''re disgusting.


    276: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾274


    Trash-tier behavior, lol.


    277: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾274


    You realize she''s the kind of girl who can solo mid-floor monsters? She''ll destroy you.


    278: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s just a girl, though.


    279: Anonymous Explorer


    A girl who can smash rocks with her bare hands isn''t just a girl.


    280: Anonymous Explorer


    Is she a gorilla?


    281: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just how explorers are.


    282: Anonymous Explorer


    Reminds me of that meme from overseas where someone catches a bullet with their bare hands.


    283: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like she''s safe, so I''m looking forward to tomorrow''s stream.


    284: Anonymous Explorer


    Did the ryona fans lose their minds?


    285: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾284


    Some guys on social media did.


    286: Anonymous Explorer


    They got flamed and deleted their accounts immediately.


    287: Anonymous Explorer


    Serves them right, lol.


    288: Anonymous Explorer


    As it should be.


    289: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾283


    Don''t expect her to stream the day after almost dying.


    290: Anonymous Explorer


    This could traumatize her, and she might quit dungeon streaming.


    291: Anonymous Explorer


    What happens if she does?


    292: Anonymous Explorer


    She might switch to game streaming.


    293: Anonymous Explorer


    No way I''d watch that.


    294: Anonymous Explorer


    The audience would be totally different, so yeah, makes sense.


    295: Anonymous Explorer


    People watching Asagao''s streams are just pretending they''re the ones conquering the dungeon.


    296: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s a creepy fanboy in here. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    297: Anonymous Explorer


    Some are probably hoping they have a chance with her.


    298: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s got big boobs and is hot. I figured some famous streamer would have already snatched her up.


    299: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s probably already taken.


    300: Anonymous Explorer


    She definitely has a boyfriend.


    301: Anonymous Explorer


    She probably surpassed that famous streamer ages ago.


    302: Anonymous Explorer


    Her skills are on a whole different level.


    303: Anonymous Explorer


    There aren''t many streamers who can even reach the mid floors of Shibuya Dungeon.


    304: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s on a different tier, for sure.


    305: Anonymous Explorer


    No wonder she''s so popular.


    306: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s got skills, which is why even international viewers love her.


    307: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not just her face and boobs. Though, that''s why I watch her.


    308: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾307


    Gross.


    309: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾307


    An old man glued to the forum watching streams for boobs¡­ You''ve hit rock bottom.


    310: Anonymous Explorer


    Who''s worse, a thirsty old man or a fanboy throwing money at her?


    311: Anonymous Explorer


    The fanboys throwing money at her are also old men...


    312: Anonymous Explorer


    Just assume everyone online is an old man.


    313: Anonymous Explorer


    So, does that mean Asagao''s an old man too¡­?


    314: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾313


    Die.


    315: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾313


    You blind or something?


    316: Anonymous Explorer


    This has gotta be a fanboy getting mad.


    317: Anonymous Explorer


    Keep the fanboys out of this thread!

 Chapter 4: Loner

    Tsukasa Kisaragi suddenly remembered his role as a student, though only because he didn''t have any dungeon requests today. Usually, as an EX-Rank explorer, the requests kept him too busy to attend school regularly. It felt like ages since he last set foot in class probably a week or so. Not that it made much difference.


    He had no friends, no club activities to pour his youth into, and definitely no sweet, romantic memories with a girlfriend. If anything, the dungeon was his lover. What a dry, uneventful youth.


    Since middle school, Tsukasa had planned to live as a dungeon explorer. He enrolled in a decent private high school using his inheritance and paid the rest of his tuition with money earned from the dungeon. But he skipped so much school that he now regretted not just opting for a correspondence school instead.


    As a third-year student, his grades were slightly above average, and his attendance was dismal, leading to poor report cards. However, his homeroom teacher didn''t seem too worried, likely because they knew Tsukasa was making money as a dungeon explorer. Though they probably had no idea he was earning in the billions.


    Lately, dungeon exploration had become quite popular among high school students. The government had been lamenting the decline in the number of explorers, but high schoolers were stepping up.


    The government wanted more full-time explorers to increase exports of magic stones, so the minimum age for an explorer license dropped from 20 to 18, and now you could get one as early as the spring after graduating from middle school.


    So why were high school students becoming explorers? Simple: with a bit of effort, even reaching the top floors could earn more than a typical part-time job. That''s it. Tsukasa didn''t know for sure, but about half of his classmates had explorer licenses.


    "Good morning!"


    "N-Nanami!?"


    "Are you okay!?"


    Tsukasa was lost in thought, reading a thick book in the corner of the classroom, waiting for homeroom to start when the room suddenly became lively. He glanced up from his book and saw the girl he had saved yesterday, smiling with a bandage wrapped around her head.


    "Someone kind helped me out."


    "We saw it on the stream!" S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I told you it was too dangerous to go to the lower floors."


    "I''m sorry."


    Her name¡­ Asakawa Nanami, right? The girl he saved yesterday¡ªhe thought she looked familiar. Turns out she was his classmate. But with a different outfit and hairstyle, it''s no wonder he didn''t recognize her. Not that he interacted much with his classmates anyway.


    "But who was it that saved you during the stream?"


    "¡­Oh, right. The stream didn''t cut off, did it?"


    "You''re just now realizing that? The stream kept going until the Association staff cut it off at the entrance."


    "R-Really? I was too embarrassed to check the archive¡­ I only remember being saved by a¡­ wolf?"


    Looking around the classroom, it was clear how popular Asakawa Nanami was. Before she arrived, everyone was chatting in small groups, but as soon as she walked in, they all gathered around her.


    She really was beautiful. Tall for a girl, with a perfect figure. As a dungeon explorer capable of soloing the lower floors, her body was toned, yet her chest was still quite prominent. Her glossy, black hair, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese beauty, was stunning. Even as an awkward loner with no chance, Tsukasa couldn''t help but admire her.


    He had a thing for legs, so yeah, he liked her. But it wasn''t like he wanted to date her or anything¡ªjust thought she was cute, that''s all. Yeah, sounds like a lame excuse, better stop.


    "Yeah¡­ I was really worried watching the stream. I was thinking about going to help you, Asakawa-san."


    "T-Thank you¡­"


    Some flashy-looking guy went up to talk to her. Why do guys like him always get all the attention? It''s practically discrimination against introverts. But guys like him usually work hard behind the scenes to be popular, exuding confidence that naturally attracts girls. Just being nice or sincere isn''t enough. Not that Tsukasa considered himself either.


    Still, judging by everyone''s reactions, this guy must be pretty popular, but Asakawa''s response seemed lukewarm.


    "You should''ve asked me for help. I would''ve gone to the lower floors with you."


    "But it was my stream¡­ I wanted to try it alone."


    "I could''ve been your bodyguard. There are only two C-Rank explorers in our class, so you can rely on me more."


    Wow.


    Even though Tsukasa was EX-Rank, he didn''t usually speak up, but a high school senior being a C-Rank explorer was impressive. The guy was good-looking, tall, probably smart, and had the skills to back it up. Tsukasa was honestly jealous.


    Then again, Tsukasa didn''t come to school often enough to remember everyone''s names.


    "You''re so cool, Shunsuke! We need to raise our explorer ranks too!"


    "It''s all about hard work. Being an explorer isn''t just about talent, it''s about effort."


    Is this guy actually nice?


    Tsukasa wasn''t sure since he barely came to school. Even when he did, he often left early or spent his time waiting for the day to end while reading a book.


    And if he remembered correctly, the guy''s name was Kurihara Shunsuke¡­ or something like that. Not entirely sure.


    "Hm?"


    Wait, he''s looking this way.


    "Oh? You''re here today? You usually don''t show up."


    "Huh? Who''s that loner?"


    "Isn''t he the guy who''s always absent? That shut-in kid?"


    Ouch. That stings. They just bluntly said what I''m insecure about. This is why I don''t like gyaru.


    "Everyone''s gathered and chatting, so why don''t you join us?"


    "N-No, it''s okay¡­"


    Would they get mad if I said I wasn''t interested? Please, teacher, get here soon¡­ This is torture.


    "You''re always reading in the corner like that, no wonder you''re such a loner."


    "Uh¡­ Can I have my book back?"


    For some reason, she took his book. Honestly, it''s not that interesting¡­ It''s just a comprehensive guide to Japanese yokai.


    "Pfft¡­ Are you reading a book for kids? Grow up already."


    "Hahaha! Yokai, seriously?"


    "What a total nerd."


    I might cry. Maybe if I apologize, they''ll give it back. I don''t want them to ruin it¡­ I should just apologize.


    "I-I''m sorry. Can I please have it back?"


    "Huh? I''m just reading it a bit, what''s the big deal?"


    "It''s¡­ it''s fine, but¡­"


    "Oh, it''s fine? You''re such a pushover!"


    "Such a wimp."


    Feels like the whole class is making fun of me. Am I the only awkward introvert in this class?


    Glancing around, it seemed like everyone was laughing at him. Apparently, Tsukasa had somehow ended up in a class full of extroverts.


    Damn. As an introvert, the only way I can think to get my book back is to grovel. Maybe a bow?


    "You should probably give it back. The teacher will be here any minute."


    "Oh, right¡­ Sorry, loner-kun."


    Wow, they gave it back without ruining it. Just when I thought he was a jerk, he shows a decent side. It''s this constant back-and-forth that probably makes girls fall for him. Noted.


    But Asakawa-san, who came to his rescue, looked more like a goddess to him. Though she was tilting her head, looking confused.


    "Such a quiet, pure magic aura¡­ I''ve never seen anything like it¡­"


    She''s mumbling something, but can she say it louder? If it''s an insult, I might just cry and go home early, so please make sure I hear it.


    Sigh¡­ I finally came to school, and now I''ve got to deal with this hassle. Guess I''ll blow off some steam in the dungeon after school¡­ Wait, I go there every day. What kind of fool am I, willingly walking the path of a corporate slave?

 Chapter 5: Between Class and Chaos

    "Sigh¡­"


    Going back to school after such a long time is mentally exhausting. In a dungeon, I only feel physical fatigue, but the mental strain here is way worse. Sure, there are dungeon explorers who deal with much more intense mental stress than this school life, especially when they''re constantly on high alert. But I''m just using shikigami to handle everything, so it''s not the same for me.


    Complaining about school being tough is just my personal issue, so whatever.


    "Hey, loner, heading home right after school?"


    "¡­Uh, is that a problem?" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I''ve been talking to older people so much lately that I automatically use polite language. Not that I''m making excuses, but I''d really prefer if they didn''t talk to me. Politeness is a useful tool that even introverts can use to have a halfway decent conversation.


    I get why my presence might be annoying, given how many days I''ve missed¡ªenough to be held back under normal circumstances. But all my absences are excused because of requests from the Explorer Association, so give me a break. I''m catching up on classes through extra lessons, after all.


    "Don''t bully him too much."


    "I''m just talking to him, right?"


    "R-Right?"


    Honestly, I can''t tell the difference between bullying and talking. Did they seriously call me "loner" without intending to bully me?


    They probably just found someone new to mess with in their friend group. Sigh¡­ Why didn''t I just go to a correspondence school?


    "So, I wanted to ask¡ªdo you have an explorer license?"


    "Y-Yeah, I do."


    "Really? That''s good."


    What''s good?


    Does having an explorer license earn me brownie points with this guy?


    "I''m a C-Rank explorer, and I can''t stand people who don''t have a license. They''re just too weak."


    "O-Oh, really?"


    "Of course. I''m sure you get it too, right? The license exam is ridiculously easy."


    "Well¡­ yeah, it is."


    Honestly, it is pretty easy. I think the government wants as many explorers as possible, so they''ve made the license exam quite accessible. There''s an academic test, but it''s just for reference and doesn''t affect getting the license. Plus, they provide a lot of support for G-Rank explorers in the top floors.


    "Exactly! So if someone doesn''t have a license, it just means they''re weak."


    The test isn''t hard, and they offer extensive training, so it''s easy to pass and get support afterward. The license can even go on your resume, which is why a lot of college students get it. But the people who don''t have one probably don''t have enough magic power to become explorers in the first place.


    Ever since dungeons appeared in the world, kids have been born with magic power in their bodies, but the amount varies by person. You can train and increase your innate magic, but there''s always a limit¡ªan inherent talent gap. Without enough magic power, being an explorer is a deadly profession.


    So, the government had to make the tough call to prevent people with low magic power from even attempting to get a license.


    "Discriminating against people with low magic power isn''t right."


    "Huh? What''s wrong with calling trash what it is¡ªtrash with no talent?"


    This is exactly the kind of person people were worried about. But when it comes to infrastructure and life-or-death matters, maybe it was inevitable. Still, personally, I don''t like people who look down on others like this.


    "Are we done here?"


    "Yeah, we''re good. Oh, if you''re ever about to die in the top floors, I might save you. Maybe!"


    "Hahaha!"


    It''s a sickening thought, but being a C-Rank explorer in high school means this guy is extremely talented. When someone has a clear indicator that they''re better than their peers, it''s no surprise they act like that.


    "Heading home now?"


    "Asakawa-san¡­"


    Just as I was leaving the classroom, feeling irritated, Asakawa, who was chatting with some other girls in the hallway, called out to me. Being noticed by the class idol might put me on the radar of the other guys.


    "Hehe¡­ Everyone''s gone to their clubs, so no one''s around."


    She laughed when she saw me glancing around nervously.


    This high school prides itself on balancing academics and extracurriculars, so unless you have a valid reason, you''re required to join a club. But since I work as an explorer, I''m exempt. Back in my first year, I was in the Home Economics Club, though.


    "So, if you''re not heading to a club, does that mean you''re an explorer?"


    "Huh?"


    "I got exempted from club activities because I''m working hard as an explorer, too."


    "O-Oh, really?"


    Makes sense. If she was in the lower floors, she''s at least C-Rank or higher. She''s also exempt from club activities because she''s an explorer.


    "It''s the Shibuya Dungeon, right? It''s the closest one around here."


    "Y-Yeah, that''s right."


    "I see¡­ We might have crossed paths there!"


    Well, we actually met yesterday. You just weren''t conscious at the time.


    I usually take requests all over the Kanto region, and when I dive into the Shibuya Dungeon on my own, I head straight to the deep floors, so we probably haven''t crossed paths. Just your imagination.


    "Well, take care!"


    "Uh, yeah."


    But she seems like a really nice person. She even helped me out this morning. Definitely a good person. I might be falling for her.


    Since I rarely get the chance to explore dungeons for personal reasons, I thought I''d go deeper today. But as luck would have it, I felt my work phone vibrating in my bag.


    "¡­Hello?"


    "Hello, Tsukasa-kun?"


    The voice on the other end belonged to a woman who was quite high up in the Explorer Association¡ªa sort of personal liaison for me.


    "I''m sorry to bother you the day after yesterday, but could you head to the 40th floor of the Shibuya Dungeon?"


    "Right now?"


    "As soon as possible. Is school over?"


    "Yeah, it is."


    Great, I''m already feeling a sigh coming on. If it''s the 40th floor, couldn''t they send a B-Rank or A-Rank explorer instead?


    "There''s been a report of multiple Frost Wyverns appearing near the 40th floor."


    "¡­Understood."


    Frost Wyverns, huh¡­ Guess I''m the only one who can handle that. Frost Wyverns are among the strongest monsters in the lower floors. If there are multiple of them, sending a B-Rank explorer would be a death sentence. They''d need to send a party of at least five A-Ranks, so it''s easier to just send me, an EX-Rank, to take care of it.


    "Thank you. I''m sorry¡­ I know it''s a lot to ask of a high schooler."


    "No, it''s my job."


    "¡­You''re still a high schooler, though. Don''t you want to enjoy your youth more?"


    "Not really, no."


    "You''re so dried up¡­ Maybe it''s because of all the requests, but you only get one youth, so you should try falling in love, too!"


    "Are you my aunt or something? I''m hanging up now."


    Geez¡­ It''s not that I don''t appreciate the concern, but I accepted this when I became EX-Rank. I''ll probably regret it when I''m in my late 20s, but for now, I''m still a kid, so I''ll just keep using that as an excuse.


    The dungeon I was going to explore for personal reasons just became part of a job, so it''s not a big deal. But there''s a huge difference in motivation between going into a dungeon by choice and doing it out of obligation.


    No point in complaining to myself. I''ll just head home, change, and get going.

 Chapter 6: Dungeon Dive

    When I was about to dive into the dungeon for personal reasons, as usual, the Explorer Association sent me a request, so I ended up going into the dungeon anyway. I''m Tsukasa Kisaragi. My registered explorer name is "UNKNOWN," nice to meet you.


    By the way, the reason my registered name is "UNKNOWN" is because I left the name field blank when I got my explorer license right after starting high school in April. What was I thinking?


    Normally, if you leave it blank, they just use your real name, but the staff member at the time took it upon themselves to write "UNKNOWN." I''m embarrassed and want to change it, but everyone in the Association calls me by that name now, so I can''t really change it.


    "Hey."


    "You got here quickly, UNKNOWN-san."


    "Well¡­ I just changed clothes after coming home from school."


    Even though the Shibuya Dungeon is at the far end of the station, it feels really close since I commute by train.


    "About the request¡­"


    "I heard it''s Frost Wyverns."


    "Y-Yes. Two or more Frost Wyverns were spotted on the 42nd floor."


    "That''s rare¡­ You don''t usually see Frost Wyverns, even on the 60th floor or beyond."


    Frost Wyverns are technically lower-floor monsters, but you''re more likely to encounter them in the deeper floors. They''re already rare, even in the deep floors.


    As the name suggests, Frost Wyverns are medium-sized dragons, and in terms of strength, a B-Rank explorer might barely be able to defeat one solo. They can manipulate ice freely, and their bodies are so cold that you can''t touch them without freezing. I wonder how they survive with such a low body temperature, but it''s a fact, so there''s no point in questioning it.


    "Alright, I''ll head out right away."


    "P-Please be careful."


    As I entered the dungeon, I noticed that the top floors were, as usual, filled with an even mix of monsters and explorers. The Shibuya Dungeon probably has the highest number of challengers in Japan, with half of the explorer population concentrated in the top floors, making it crowded with people.


    I don''t like to summon my shikigami in crowded areas like the top floors since they could easily be mistaken for monsters. So, I stick to using just a katana until I reach the middle floors.


    "Gyah!"


    As I descended the stairs, a black-colored goblin came running at me, swinging something that looked like a machete.


    In games, goblins often appear as the weakest enemies, but seeing one in person, my only reaction is that it''s surprisingly gross. The sight of it waving a machete around with bloodshot eyes is genuinely scary. But since explorers'' physical abilities are on a completely different level from regular people, I can kill a goblin with just a casual swing of my katana.


    "Gyii!?"


    The goblin''s small body, only about half my height, was sliced clean in two. Since this katana is forged from materials I obtained in the deep floors, cutting a goblin in half is a breeze.


    Usually, a few more goblins would attack, but with so many people in the dungeon today, most of the goblins have probably already been hunted down. Poor weakest species. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The goblin''s body turned to ash and disappeared. For some reason, monsters in dungeons turn to ash and vanish when defeated. Depending on the monster, some parts remain, but all that''s left of a goblin is a magic crystal, a mana stone.


    "Goblin mana stones are this small?"


    It''s been a while since I last cut down a goblin, so I was surprised by how small the mana stone was. Since mana stones are a valuable national resource, the government buys them by weight. The price per gram fluctuates depending on supply, but collecting a ton of small goblin mana stones wouldn''t provide enough income to live on.


    Honestly, if all you do is hunt goblins in the top floors, you''d be better off working a regular part-time job. It''s safer too.


    But if you''re skilled enough to hunt goblins consistently, you''d probably become an F-Rank explorer and be able to venture into the top floors, where you could earn a decent income.


    "Hah!"


    "It''s heading your way!"


    "Three goblins incoming!"


    As I walked through the top floors, I noticed a lot of teenagers around my age. For many high school students, fighting goblins in groups is probably the best they can manage. They say magic power strengthens the more you use it, after all.


    In reality, some people''s magic power increases rapidly, while others'' grows steadily over time. There are even stories of people who couldn''t qualify for an explorer license in high school because of low magic power but later surpassed C-Rank magic levels by their thirties. But that doesn''t mean high schoolers brimming with talent won''t continue to grow, either.


    In the top floors, goblins are the most common enemy, but near the 10th floor, which borders the top and upper floors, other monsters start to appear. You''ll encounter creatures like Steel Ants¡ªgiant ants about 40 centimeters long. Though smaller than goblins, they have incredibly hard shells.


    However, they''re not particularly dangerous; their jaws aren''t very strong, so they can only draw a little blood. They also spit formic acid, but it just irritates the skin. At least, for explorers with a certain level of magic power.


    Basically, the more magic power you have, the harder your body becomes. The exact mechanics are unclear, but explorers who dive into the lower floors can even control this hardness. They''re just wrapping their bodies in magic power, though.


    "Oh, ants."


    While walking through the 10th floor, I spotted two Steel Ants ahead. They hadn''t noticed me yet, but with their senses, they would probably detect me if I got within 10 meters. For me, though, 10 meters is a distance I can cover in less than a tenth of a second.


    While ordinary weapons can''t cut through the Steel Ants'' shells, my beloved katana slices through them like tofu. It doesn''t have a name, by the way.


    Despite their hard shells, Steel Ants aren''t worth much since only the chest part remains after they''re defeated, and even that sells for next to nothing. I tossed the mana stones and shells into the bag I brought and continued toward the middle floors.


    Since there are still many inexperienced explorers in the top floors, it''s best not to hunt too many monsters here. If I wanted to, I could wipe out all the monsters on this floor within minutes. But to do that, I''d need to summon my shikigami.

 Chapter 7: Unexpected Encounter

    I quickly passed through the upper floors and arrived at the entrance to the middle floors, the 21st level. From here on, it''s a world where, without a certain level of strength, you could easily meet your end. Still, with a D-rank explorer license, you''re allowed in, so anyone with some talent should be able to manage.


    The upper floors feel like typical dungeon caves, but from the middle floors onward, the environment changes drastically. Levels 21 to 30 are covered in dense forests.


    The forest is thick with trees, the kind of place you''d expect forest-dwelling monsters to live. The ceiling is covered with a special moss that glows for 12 hours and then "sleeps" for 12 hours, making it feel as bright as daylight. Interestingly, the timing of the light doesn''t match the actual sun¡ªat 5 AM, it suddenly becomes as bright as noon, and by 5 PM, it plunges into the darkness of night.


    "Alright, Raij¨±."


    The forest is so dense that visibility is limited, making it easy for monsters to ambush you if you''re not careful. But for me, this is actually an advantage because it makes it harder for other explorers to spot me, making it easier to summon my shikigami.


    When I call Raij¨±''s name, a yellow wolf appears from a magic circle¡ªmy trusty companion who''s always by my side. As soon as it''s summoned, Raij¨± sniffs the air, alert and scanning the surroundings before turning its gaze to me.


    "What''s up?"


    "Woof..."


    Raij¨± moves with a relaxed gait, seeming calm, but if a monster shows up, it''ll strike with lightning speed¡ªa reliable shikigami indeed.


    I created my shikigami based on the yokai encyclopedia I read at school, and honestly, it seems to have picked up on my personality in a subtle way. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright, today''s mission is on the 40th floor."


    As I start walking, Raij¨± follows, trotting along with its fur slightly bristling with static electricity. I''m not sure how it works, but Raij¨± can detect nearby monsters by charging its fur with electricity. Plus, its lightning attacks are precisely controlled, so I don''t have to worry about getting hit even if I''m swinging my sword around. Pretty handy.


    After walking through the forest for a while, a rat bigger than the Steel Ants from the upper floors appears.


    "That''s¡­ a Giant Rat."


    This creature, aptly named Giant Rat, doesn''t even get a chance to react before there''s a sharp crack of electricity in the air¡ªRaij¨± has already taken off its head.


    The Raij¨± is said to be a mythical creature born from lightning that split a giant tree. Riding on clouds and moving at the speed of lightning, it''s too fast for human eyes to track.


    "Good job."


    After swiftly dealing with the Giant Rat, Raij¨± relaxes its fur and lets out a yawn. To Raij¨±, a middle-floor Giant Rat isn''t even a threat. Even if dozens of them showed up, Raij¨± would wipe them out with ease¡ªthat''s how powerful it is.


    As I continue walking through the middle floors, my bag starts to feel pretty heavy.


    I''ve heard that overseas they''re working on bags enchanted with magic to have incredibly large interiors, but they haven''t figured out how to make them practical yet. With regular technology, you can wait for advancements, but with magic, it all depends on finding the right materials. It could be developed tomorrow, or we might be waiting a hundred years.


    There''s no point in wishing for what I don''t have, so I rely on my usual solution for carrying my load.


    "Kasha."


    A flaming cart appears from a magic circle and stops in front of me. Kasha is a yokai said to drag sinners'' souls to hell, but I''ve repurposed its cart to carry my bags full of magic stones. Honestly, I wonder if I''m using it the right way, but Kasha doesn''t seem to mind, and it organizes everything neatly for me.


    Being a shikigami, it''s strong enough to give me peace of mind, and best of all, I can summon and dismiss it at will.


    I take an empty bag from the Kasha that I had stored there earlier, and the demon pulling the cart nods in satisfaction before disappearing into particles. I have no idea how, but whenever I summon Kasha again, it always has my stored magic stones with it. Yet, if Raij¨± gets injured, dismissing and resummoning it heals the wounds. It''s a mystery.


    No point in dwelling on things that have no clear answer, so I continue deeper into the middle floors with Raij¨± in tow.


    Past the 30th floor, the forest gives way to a cavern filled with water. It''s like an underground lake, with water that glows faintly, adding a mystical touch to the otherwise dim surroundings. But there are monsters in the water, so getting too close isn''t wise.


    Not that I have to worry about that.


    Raij¨± is strong enough to handle even the monsters in the deep floors. This means that once I summon Raij¨±, I can pretty much just stroll along, yawning, as it takes care of everything until we reach the deeper floors. But since today''s mission is on the 40th floor, honestly, it''s not all that exciting.


    Yeah, it''s not exciting. The reason I dive into dungeons isn''t just for the money; it''s because I enjoy the act of exploring. But after three years of delving into this dungeon, I''ve memorized every inch of the upper, middle, and lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon. Unless the dungeon''s structure changes drastically, it''s just not that interesting anymore.


    The thrill of exploration comes from the unknown, from discovering new depths.


    With these trivial thoughts running through my mind, and with Raij¨± handling all the monsters, I reach the 40th floor in no time. As you descend, the dungeon floors get larger, but if you take the shortest route from stairway to stairway, it doesn''t take that long¡­ I think. Maybe it''s just because Raij¨± is annihilating everything in its path.


    "Huh? Someone''s already here."


    I heard there were multiple Frost Wyverns a bit below the 40th floor, but it doesn''t seem like a warning has been issued. Well, the dungeon authorities probably keep track of anyone heading to the lower floors. If this were happening in the upper floors, the Explorer Association would post detailed information on their website and issue evacuation warnings.


    But since it''s the lower floors, they probably think it''s fine. Still, they really should issue a warning¡­ It''s not like they can excuse a death by saying they were busy afterward.


    I turn my gaze toward where I sense someone''s presence, and I instantly regret it.


    "Today, I''m definitely going to conquer the lower floors! I''m doing it out of sheer determination!"


    Standing there was Asakawa-san, the same person I saw in this exact spot yesterday.


    Why is she back here the day after nearly dying? Is she crazy?

 Chapter 8: Duel With the Wyvern!?

    For Asakawa Nanami, the dungeon was a place to prove herself.


    Until she became a high school student, Asakawa Nanami had her entire life dictated by her parents. To her, the dungeon was the one place where she could express her true self. She started dungeon streaming simply because she wanted to be sure of her own existence.


    Asakawa Nanami was recognized for her skill as an explorer and gained many fans, but to her, the popularity she achieved as a streamer was always of less importance.


    "Today, I''m definitely going to conquer the lower floors! I''m doing it out of sheer determination!"


    Chat:


    : Ehh¡­


    : She''s going to die this time.


    : You shouldn''t push yourself.


    : Let''s just eat the crab we found on the upper floors.


    : Seriously, stop going to the lower floors.


    "It''s not impossible. I''m going to conquer the lower floors!"


    Chat:


    : She''s stubborn.


    : Well, it''s her responsibility if she dies, so whatever.


    : If she dies, I won''t have anyone to donate to anymore.


    : Just donate to charity instead.


    : Seriously, don''t do it.


    Asakawa Nanami, known as the popular streamer Asagao, tightened her grip on her beloved spear. Even though she considered the evaluation of her streaming career secondary, she didn''t intend to dismiss it entirely. However, she felt that her viewers were implying that her abilities were only valid up to the middle floors, and she was desperate to prove them wrong.


    Chat:


    : She almost died on the lower floors even though she''s C-rank. Isn''t the association at fault?


    : The association''s criteria are so unclear.


    : Asagao-chan can do it!


    : No way.


    : Do your best!


    : You might die, so just stop.


    "Even if it means risking my life, I''m still going."


    Chat:


    : Dungeon lunatic.


    : This is typical Asagao-chan.


    : Here we go.


    : The lower floors aren''t a joke.


    : The death rate on the lower floors is insane, seriously, stop.


    No matter what Asakawa Nanami said, the viewers, who were just watching from behind their screens, didn''t change. And similarly, no matter what the viewers said, Nanami had no intention of changing her mind.


    "Alright, I''m going!"


    Chat:


    : Ignoring everything, huh?


    : Well, yeah. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : She''s more curious than anything.


    : That''s so Asagao-chan lol.


    : Lol


    : She''s dead lol


    Ignoring the comments on purpose, Nanami headed toward the stairs leading to the lower floors. But as soon as she did, she instinctively sensed danger and took a large step back.


    Chat:


    : Oh?


    : Did she get scared?


    : Let''s just go back.


    : It''s impossible.


    : What''s going on?


    : ?


    The viewers were making casual comments, unable to sense the tension that Nanami was feeling. Meanwhile, Nanami, now too focused to even glance at the comments, readied her spear and kept her eyes fixed on the stairs.


    "Something¡­ is coming!"


    As Nanami spoke, the stairs leading to the lower floors began to freeze over, and from below emerged a wyvern clad in sharp icicles covering its white body. The overwhelming pressure from the creature made Nanami flinch for a moment, but she quickly regained her resolve and tightened her grip on her spear.


    Chat:


    : This is bad.


    : Run!


    : You can''t win against that!


    : I''ve never seen a monster like this before!


    : Did a lower-floor monster come up?


    : She''s dead, she''s dead!


    "It''s fast!"


    Nanami instantly realized the vast difference in power between herself and the Frost Wyvern standing before her. The thought of running briefly crossed her mind, but the moment the Frost Wyvern turned its gaze toward her and began to move, that option vanished.


    The Frost Wyvern was flying low at a speed that didn''t match its large frame, aiming straight for Nanami. Knowing full well that even if she ran with all her might, it would catch up to her, Nanami was left with only two options: fight and win, or fight and die.


    "Damn it! I-It''s freezing everything!"


    Chat:


    : It''s hell.


    : Can anyone actually beat this thing?


    : It''s over.


    : Is she really going to die this time?


    : If you''re here to make jokes, leave!


    : Please, just run!


    As the Frost Wyvern flew low, exhaling a breath of subzero air, the 40th floor, which had resembled an underground lake, quickly transformed into an icy cavern. Desperately dodging the Frost Wyvern''s frigid breath as it spread across the ground, Nanami gathered her strength and leaped high into the air, thrusting her spear into the wyvern''s head as it passed beneath her.


    "It pierced!"


    Feeling the spearhead penetrate the hard scales and tear into the flesh of the Frost Wyvern''s head, Nanami was confident she could win if her weapon could land a blow. However, the blood that should have spurted out froze instantly, and the spear lodged in the wyvern''s head became stuck in the ice, impossible to pull out.


    "Damn it!"


    Before Nanami could even fully register her mistake, the Frost Wyvern thrashed its head, throwing Nanami off, and opened its mouth, forming a magic circle.


    "M-Magic?"


    Most of the monsters up to the middle floors relied on their physical abilities or special traits to attack. It was becoming a widely accepted notion among dungeon explorers that only certain humanoid monsters could use magic. But that was only true for the middle floors.


    Chat:


    : Huh?


    : Did she die?


    : This is hell.


    : It''s on a different level.


    : This has to be a joke.


    Frost Wyverns possess high intelligence and can use the magic stored within their bodies. In addition to breathing subzero air, this Frost Wyvern used its magic circle to launch a series of deadly ice spikes.


    As the spikes hit the ground, they exploded, freezing the surroundings with incredible force. Whether they were earnest supporters or casual onlookers, all the viewers watching the stream were left speechless. At the same time, they began to truly fear the monsters that roamed the lower floors.


    "Hah, hah¡­"


    Chat:


    : !?


    : She''s alive!


    : It''s a miracle!


    "Ngh¡­ Hah¡­"


    Nanami, who had managed to block the exploding ice spikes by casting multiple layers of fire magic, was left panting from the massive drain on her magic reserves. Although she had defended herself with fire, the disparity in power between her and the Frost Wyvern was evident, and parts of her body were covered in frost.


    "Damn it!"


    Chat:


    : Run, quickly!


    : There''s no way she can escape now.


    : Just do something!


    : This is bad.


    : This is really bad.


    The Frost Wyvern, realizing it hadn''t finished Nanami off, began conjuring more ice spikes from its magic circle. Nanami was shocked at how easily the monster could cast such powerful spells that could kill a person instantly. And she realized, this was the power of monsters from the lower floors.


    As the ice spikes flew toward her, Nanami used all her strength to dodge them while keeping her eyes on the spear still lodged in the wyvern''s head. Right now, there was only one way she could win.


    "Okay¡­ Here we go!"


    Summoning all her courage, Nanami sprinted toward the Frost Wyvern, which was continuously casting its freezing magic. The comments section was exploding with warnings that she was committing suicide, but Nanami wasn''t aware of them as she charged toward the wyvern. Naturally, the closer she got to the wyvern, the harder it became to dodge the ice spikes as they reached her faster.


    But with miraculous reflexes, Nanami dodged the ice spikes by a hair''s breadth and cast a slicing spell.


    "Too shallow!?"


    Even with multiple layers of magic powerful enough to slice most middle-floor monsters in half, the Frost Wyvern''s body only suffered a few shallow cuts. However, the unexpected counterattack caused the wyvern to flinch slightly, and Nanami seized the opportunity to reach her spear.


    "Take this!"


    Ignoring the searing pain of the cold against her skin as she touched the spear, Nanami cast a fire spell and threw her entire weight onto the spear, driving it deeper into the wyvern''s head. Instead of pulling it out, she decided it would be more effective to push it further in.


    The Frost Wyvern, attempting to shake Nanami off its head, convulsed violently as the spear drove into its brain. It then collapsed, spewing a fountain of blood, and began to disintegrate into ash as it died.


    "Ah!"


    Exhausted, Nanami was thrown to the ground as the Frost Wyvern collapsed, unable to even brace herself for the impact. But as she watched the wyvern''s body turn to ash and disappear, she smiled.


    "I¡­ won?"


    Chat:


    : Whoooaaaaaaa!!!


    : Best. Stream. Ever.


    : Asagao is the strongest!


    : This is insane!


    : Streamers are the strongest after all!


    The comment section exploded at a speed never seen before as viewers watched the streamer Asagao, who had been on the brink of death, take down a Frost Wyvern. The number of concurrent viewers had reached unprecedented heights, and Nanami, lying on her back, exhaled a deep breath.


    "I guess¡­ I can''t go to the lower floors today¡­"


    Chat:


    : She''s still thinking about going lol.


    : But she beat something that strong, so she should be fine now.


    : Yeah, totally.


    : Is she getting stronger during the battle!?


    : Lol


    "I''m starting to worry if I''ll even be able to handle the lower floors."


    Chat:


    : There''s no way there are multiple monsters like that down there.


    : It was probably just a strong one that wandered up.


    : Yesterday''s skeleton looked weaker anyway.


    : She could definitely beat that skeleton now.


    : Asagao is the strongest! Asagao is the strongest!


    Nanami agreed with the comments that flooded in, expressing endless curiosity about the lower floors now that she had defeated an unknown threat. She assumed that if there were multiple enemies as strong as the Frost Wyvern, explorers would be wiped out in no time. That''s what she thought.


    As the Frost Wyvern''s defeat brought back the usual atmosphere in the comment section, three more Frost Wyverns, each even larger than the one she had just fought, slowly ascended the stairs from the lower floors.


    "Huh?"


    Chat:


    : Huh?


    : What?


    : It''s over.


    : Wait, what?


    These three Frost Wyverns, each about twice the size of the one Nanami had just killed, slowly made their way up the stairs from the lower floors. For Nanami and her viewers, who only knew the middle floors, this was an introduction to a completely unknown world.


    The dungeon, with all its threats, was baring its fangs at Nanami.

 Chapter 9: Rescuing Asakawa-san

    Oh no.


    I was so focused on watching Asakawa-san fight the Frost Wyvern that I thought it would be bad manners as an explorer to intervene and steal the kill. But before I knew it, she had already defeated it.


    Asakawa-san, thinking she was safe, was lying on the ground, but there were supposed to be multiple Frost Wyverns. As I had suspected earlier, the one she was fighting was smaller than usual. The size difference was pretty obvious. And just as I was thinking that, a familiar-sized Frost Wyvern emerged from the stairs.


    "Raij¨±, go!"


    Among the shikigami I can summon, Raij¨± is the fastest, excluding some special ones. Even though there are several dozen meters between Asakawa-san, who''s about to be attacked, and the wyverns, Raij¨± can close that distance in the blink of an eye.


    "Kyahh!"


    With a sound like a thunderclap, Raij¨± instantly closed the distance and kicked the nearest Frost Wyvern in the face.


    My job was to summon shikigami that could take down the Frost Wyverns as I approached.


    "Mezuki, Gozuki, come forth."


    From the magic circle appeared two oni¡ªone with a horse''s head and one with a bull''s head. Each standing over two meters tall, the oni gripped their large axes and charged at the Frost Wyverns.


    In Buddhism, Gozuki and Mezuki are said to be enforcers of hell, punishing the souls of those who committed sins in life. Though technically not yokai, they are often treated as such in Japan.


    "A-Are those monsters?!"


    "Are you alright?"


    "Eep!?"


    Asakawa-san probably had no idea what was happening right in front of her, but I needed to get her to safety.


    The Frost Wyverns seemed startled by the sudden appearance of Gozuki, Mezuki, and Raij¨±, but in that moment of hesitation, Gozuki decapitated one of them. Among the shikigami I summon, Gozuki and Mezuki are among the strongest in raw power, so they won''t lose to the likes of a Frost Wyvern.


    "Who... are you?"


    "Hold on tight."


    Her body was frozen all over, and if she moved too much, it could lead to more than just bleeding. We would have to thaw her out slowly and carefully. But first, we needed to get out of the Frost Wyvern''s range.


    "An ice spike is coming this way!"


    "It''s fine."


    Something like that can be easily blocked with magic.


    I cast a fire spell, and the ice spike heading our way evaporated into steam. With the wyvern''s attention now diverted, Mezuki split its body in two. Now there was only one left, and before I knew it, Gozuki had pinned it down while Raij¨± tore into its head, finishing it off.


    "Alright, all done. Let''s start the healing."


    "W-Wait a minute... I need to wrap my head around this."


    "? I''ll continue the treatment."


    There shouldn''t be anything to process here. The Frost Wyverns appeared, your life was in danger, but now you''re safe¡ªthat''s it.


    "Onmoraki."


    To help thaw out her frozen body, I summoned Onmoraki. According to legend, Onmoraki is born from the unofficiated spirits of the dead and is said to breathe blue flames. The Onmoraki I created, based on this lore, breathes fire. Maybe because of that, it has a warm body temperature, making it ideal for thawing the ice.


    "Don''t move. Kasha."


    I summoned Kasha, my usual pack mule, and retrieved some healing ointment from the bag it carried. This ointment, found in the dungeon, works fast but drains a lot of stamina¡ªso it''s a bit risky.


    "Thanks, Gozuki, Mezuki."


    After receiving the magic stones and fangs from the Frost Wyverns, I dismissed Gozuki and Mezuki and handed the items to Kasha.


    I ignored Asakawa-san, who was likely still in shock, and focused on treating her injuries. As Onmoraki''s warmth melted the ice, I applied the ointment to the wounds. This ointment can be used in everyday life, but applying two doses will make you drowsy due to the intense drain on stamina. That''s the one downside.


    "Um... Kisaragi-kun?"


    "Huh? You know me?" S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "We''re classmates, remember?"


    Oh, right. But this is the first time I''ve actually had a proper conversation with Asakawa-san, even though we''ve been in the same class.


    "You got here really fast after school, didn''t you?"


    "Huh? Well... I didn''t even change out of my uniform?"


    "Oh, you''re right."


    I did change, but Asakawa-san came here in her uniform. Is she addicted to dungeons or something?


    "Kisaragi-kun, I didn''t know you could come this far into the dungeon."


    "Yeah, I come here often."


    Though, I usually just pass through and head straight for the deeper levels.


    As we made small talk while I treated her wounds, Raij¨± approached us. It seemed there were no more monsters nearby.


    "Your wounds are treated... You should head back now."


    "Thank you... I''ll do that."


    The conversation felt awkward. It''s understandable for me since I''m a socially awkward introvert, but I''m not sure why Asakawa-san isn''t her usual self either.


    "W-Wait!"


    "Yes?"


    As I was about to dismiss Onmoraki, Kasha, and Raij¨± and head back to make my report, she suddenly called out to me.


    "U-Um... those creatures from earlier... what were they?"


    "Oh, uh... can we talk about it some other time?"


    For some reason, I''m not keen on explaining this to others. Maybe it''s because I''m an introvert.


    "Kirin."


    Not wanting to stick around while Asakawa-san searched for more words, I summoned Kirin and mounted it. Kirin, with the head of a dragon, the body of a deer, the tail of an ox, and the hooves of a horse, is a mystical creature, though technically a divine beast rather than a yokai¡ªbut that''s irrelevant.


    "Wait!"


    Asakawa-san called out again, but Kirin, following my orders, sped off, ignoring her. Though not as fast as Raij¨±, Kirin is still incredibly fast, and in no time, it carried me from the middle floors up to the upper floors and finally to the entrance of Shibuya Dungeon.


    "Y-You''re back already? That was fast!"


    "Huh? You mean Kirin?"


    "No, I mean... you''re back so soon."


    "Am I?"


    I thought I took my time on the way in, so I didn''t think it was that fast.


    "Ah, always so reliable."


    "Are you really grateful?"


    I handed over the Frost Wyvern''s magic stones and fangs to the branch manager, who greeted me with his usual suspicious smile.


    "Your shikigami skills are always impressive."


    "Just for summoning shikigami?"


    "I tried it myself recently, but I couldn''t manage it at all."


    He''s laughing to himself, but I just want to get this over with and go home.


    I''ve already explained to him that shikigami techniques require a specific innate magic affinity, which he lacks, so I don''t know why he hasn''t given up yet.


    "So, three magic stones... Were there three Frost Wyverns?"


    "There were four."


    "What happened to the other one?"


    "Another explorer took it."


    The branch manager squinted at me. What now?


    "A Frost Wyvern, huh?"


    "Is something wrong?"


    "No, I was just wondering if there were any other explorers in Shibuya Dungeon today who could take down a Frost Wyvern."


    "Why are you asking me?"


    "Are you really just a high school student? You should take some time to enjoy life, you know?"


    That''s annoying. How would I know... I haven''t had any free time. I came straight to the dungeon after school today.


    "We confirmed that one Frost Wyvern was defeated."


    "Huh? A stream?"


    He suddenly showed me a computer screen... Sure enough, there''s Asakawa-san and the Frost Wyvern.


    "It''s called dungeon streaming. It''s been popular among young people for the past few years."


    "Oh... Is that so?"


    "You don''t seem interested."


    Because I''m not.


    "Anyway, it seems your face and abilities have been exposed to the world."


    "Is that so?"


    "...I guess you weren''t really hiding it, were you?"


    Well, I left the name field blank, got labeled as "UNKNOWN," and never bothered to register my personal information, so I''ve never had any trouble with it. It doesn''t really matter to me.


    "Anyway, thanks for completing the request. The reward will be deposited, so don''t worry about that."


    More money piling up.


    Maybe I should have some expensive weapons or armor custom-made.

 Chapter 10: Thread 2: Rising Tensions

    655: Anonymous Explorer


    Wanna talk about Asagao-chan attempting the lower floors again, despite everything?


    656: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s what this thread is about, after all.


    657: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, how strong is that weird wyvern anyway?


    658: Anonymous Explorer


    Dunno.


    659: Anonymous Explorer


    Come on, aren''t all thread participants S-rank explorers?


    660: Anonymous Explorer


    No way.


    661: Anonymous Explorer


    Only the NEETs are.


    662: Anonymous Explorer


    That was probably a Frost Wyvern.


    663: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the knowledgeable guy here?


    664: Anonymous Explorer


    Nope, I have no idea.


    665: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾664


    Totally useless.


    666: Anonymous Explorer


    If you don''t know, don''t talk.


    667: Anonymous Explorer


    A Frost Wyvern sounds strong. (small-brained comment)


    668: Anonymous Explorer


    How would I know about lower-floor monsters?


    669: Anonymous Explorer


    I think I saw something like that on TV when an S-rank explorer was talking.


    670: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh, I feel like I''ve seen it before.


    671: Anonymous Explorer


    You guys actually watch TV?


    672: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾669


    I think I''ve heard about it too. Some rare monster from the lower floors or something.


    673: Anonymous Explorer


    No one''s talking about Asagao-chan''s classmate Kisaragi-kun.


    674: Anonymous Explorer


    Who cares about a guy?


    675: Anonymous Explorer


    The hardcore fans on social media are losing their minds. [Image]


    676: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾675


    Gross.


    677: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾675


    Falling in love with a high school girl, seriously creepy.


    678: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾674


    Looks like one of them is here.


    679: Anonymous Explorer


    This is a thread to talk about Asagao.


    680: Anonymous Explorer


    He was in Asagao''s stream, you know.


    681: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾675


    Fanboys going crazy, lol.


    682: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾679


    Are you one of those fanboys?


    683: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, I didn''t know there were explorers that strong.


    684: Anonymous Explorer


    Since she was saved by her classmate, they must be doing it already.


    685: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾684


    Die.


    686: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾684


    I''ll kill you, you piece of trash.


    687: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve never seen an explorer that strong.


    688: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t find any info on Kisaragi-kun, a third-year high school student at C-rank, on the Explorer Association''s website. He''s probably an explorer who''s hiding his personal information.


    689: Anonymous Explorer


    Then let''s try to guess which registered name he''s using.


    690: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾688


    No way he''s just C-rank with that strength.


    691: Anonymous Explorer


    But are there any high school students above C-rank?


    692: Anonymous Explorer


    None among those who''ve registered their personal info.


    693: Anonymous Explorer


    There are a few dozen at C-rank.


    694: Anonymous Explorer


    But none at B-rank.


    695: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s one at A-rank, though.


    696: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾695


    Isn''t that person a girl?


    697: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾695


    Let''s not talk about the Dungeon Princess.


    698: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care about personal info, but what were those creatures?


    699: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s using them, obviously.


    700: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s the only explanation.


    701: Anonymous Explorer


    But using monsters requires special items, and you can''t just summon and dismiss them like that.


    702: Anonymous Explorer


    What even is an Onmoraki? That''s not a monster.


    703: Anonymous Explorer


    Onmoraki is a yokai born from the spirits of the dead who weren''t given a proper burial. In other words, it''s a fictional creature!


    704: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾703


    You sound like a yokai expert.


    705: Anonymous Explorer


    Yokai?


    706: Anonymous Explorer


    This is so confusing, lol.


    707: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably "Shikigami Jutsu."


    708: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to summon a cool monster too, so I can crush everything while just standing back with my arms crossed.


    709: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾707


    What is Shikigami Jutsu?


    710: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾707


    Details, please.


    711: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t know much, but¡­


    712: Anonymous Explorer


    Just say something.


    713: Anonymous Explorer


    Relax. You probably know more than anyone else here.


    714: Anonymous Explorer


    Talk about Asagao-chan.


    715: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾714


    This happened in Asagao''s stream.


    716: Anonymous Explorer


    So it''s not off-topic.


    717: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s a brief summary:


    Shikigami are creatures created and controlled by your own magic. The strength of the created creature depends on the amount of magic power the user has. Once created, they can be summoned repeatedly. To create one, you need to have a detailed understanding of the creature.


    That''s about it.


    718: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾717


    Nice.


    719: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾717


    You know more than I thought.


    720: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve never even heard of that kind of magic.


    721: Anonymous Explorer


    It exists, so believe it.


    722: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾717


    If the power of the shikigami depends on the user''s magic, does that mean Kisaragi-kun is ridiculously strong?


    723: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to try Shikigami Jutsu too.


    724: Anonymous Explorer


    So cool. I''m jealous.


    725: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾722


    That''s right. The shikigami only has a fraction of the user''s power. But the traits of the shikigami vary.


    £¾£¾723


    Apparently, you need to have a natural talent for it.


    726: Anonymous Explorer


    Really? That sucks.


    727: Anonymous Explorer


    Then it''s definitely something else.


    728: Anonymous Explorer


    No way someone can create such powerful shikigami, lol.


    729: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾725


    If this is true, Kisaragi-kun (hypothetically) could solo a Frost Wyvern.


    730: Anonymous Explorer


    No way...


    731: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s too much of a stretch.


    732: Anonymous Explorer


    Here we go with another tall tale.


    733: Anonymous Explorer


    Why am I being called a liar here?


    734: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s true, then Kisaragi-kun is a monster, lol.


    735: Anonymous Explorer sea??h th§× N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Isn''t that super inconvenient to use?


    736: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾735


    It is. And since it''s a natural talent, nobody else can use it.


    737: Anonymous Explorer


    Then it can''t be that.


    738: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no way those buffed-up ox and horse guys were shikigami. Be serious.


    739: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it crazy that Asagao-chan soloed a Frost Wyvern?


    740: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just plain insane.


    741: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s definitely going viral.


    742: Anonymous Explorer


    Shikigami-kun is going viral too.


    743: Anonymous Explorer


    His name is Kisaragi-kun, by the way.


    744: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care about some guy.


    745: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re still here?


    746: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao-chan''s hardcore fans who obsess over her purity are hopeless. Asagao-chan is probably getting along just fine with Kisaragi-kun.


    747: Anonymous Explorer


    Die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die.


    748: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾747


    Lol.


    749: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾747


    Lol.


    750: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾747


    What are you, a kid?


    751: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to be a top explorer and get all the girls.


    752: Anonymous Explorer


    Become an explorer, get rich, and the girls will come to you.


    753: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾752


    That''s harsh.


    754: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾753


    Make enough money, and you can donate it all.


    755: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m gonna be an explorer and use the money to donate!


    756: Anonymous Explorer


    What an idiot.


    757: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ll probably die in the dungeon.

 Chapter 11: A Risky Promise

    I sighed as I looked at my bankbook, which kept growing even as I spent money. I know it''s not something I should be doing at school, but I recently bought a condo. I figured it was pointless to keep accumulating money without spending any, so I paid for it all at once and handed it over to a real estate agent...


    But yesterday''s reward and the money from the Frost Wyvern''s magic stone brought in a lot of cash again.


    I understand that the magic stone from a Frost Wyvern is valuable enough to generate a lot of electricity, but it''s not the kind of money a student should be handling. At first, I had a lot of distant relatives I''d never heard of suddenly appear, but now, that kind of thing doesn''t happen anymore.


    "Huh?"


    Wait a minute. If I made this much money from one Frost Wyvern magic stone, doesn''t that mean Asakawa-san, who got one too, made a lot of money?


    I should probably introduce her to a trustworthy tax accountant next time. She''d probably appreciate that more than just being taken care of in some other way.


    By the way, I feel like I''m getting a lot of stares from my classmates today... I wonder why. I heard something about my face being shown on some dungeon stream... Maybe that''s why. But is Asakawa-san really that famous?


    "Oh, good morning."


    "...Huh? Me?"


    I was about to put away my bankbook and take out a book to read, thinking there was no point in worrying about it, when someone spoke to me from the side. I didn''t expect anyone to suddenly talk to me at school, so I turned my head, surprised, and saw the person at the center of all this attention.


    A classmate with jet-black hair and equally dark, captivating eyes. It was Asakawa-san, the girl I saved yesterday while completing an assignment. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Thanks for yesterday."


    "Oh, uh... yeah..."


    Nope, this isn''t working.


    Don''t expect a vocabulary large enough to hold a conversation with the class''s Madonna from a socially awkward, introverted loner. Even if I did have the words, they wouldn''t come out of my mouth.


    "You''re Kisaragi-kun, right? I thought so."


    "M-Maybe you''ve got the wrong person?"


    Why am I trying to deny it? This is pathetic.


    "That''s not true. The Kisaragi-kun I met at school yesterday and the one I met in the dungeon had the same magic power."


    "M-Magic power?"


    "Yeah! It''s really serene and beautiful. The word ''quiet'' suits it perfectly."


    Serene magic power, huh... Even if you say that, most people don''t notice individuality in magic power. I''ve heard that some people with exceptionally good vision or a special constitution that makes them sensitive to magic can identify individuals by their magic power, but could it be that Asakawa-san is one of those people?


    "Well, I have a lot I want to talk about, so can we meet after school?"


    "Huh? Oh, um... I think that''s okay."


    I was told by the lady who handles my assignments that I could take a break since I''ve been taking consecutive requests, so it should be fine.


    But more importantly, why is that handsome guy glaring at me just because Asakawa-san is talking to me? Are they dating or something? He''s giving me a look that says he doesn''t like seeing his girlfriend talking to some unknown guy.


    "Alright, let''s meet in front of Shibuya Station!"


    "Y-Yeah."


    But of course, as a socially awkward introverted loner, I couldn''t possibly refuse the words of a sparkling, popular girl. Too bad... Someone, please help.


    Asakawa-san didn''t seem to notice and just left the classroom. This means I''m definitely going to get harassed by that handsome guy.


    "Hey, loser, don''t get cocky."


    "Eek!"


    Yep, I''m being harassed.


    He''s glaring at me with a clearly furious expression, looking like he''s one step away from punching me. Didn''t he say it was fine as long as I had an explorer''s license?


    "What did you do to get Asakawa-san to talk to you? Are you trying to hit on her? Know your place."


    "I-I''m not trying to hit on her."


    "What?"


    "S-Sorry."


    Damn it. I reflexively apologized. I can speak normally to people I''m used to, but why am I such a socially awkward loner in situations like this? I wish I had better communication skills rather than dungeon exploration skills!


    "Tch! If I see you talking to Asakawa-san again, I''m gonna beat the crap out of you."


    "I-I''m sorry."


    "Someone like you doesn''t deserve to be talking to her. You understand what it means to be punched by a C-rank, don''t you?"


    Um... It''d probably hurt?


    No, that''s not it. So, does he mean... I might die?


    Well, I don''t know what kind of magic this handsome guy uses, so I can''t say for sure, but if it''s just physical attacks, I don''t feel like I''d lose at all. I guess he''s warning me that he might do something unpredictable. I should just nod my head to be safe.


    Looking somewhat satisfied, the handsome guy walked away from me. I don''t get it. But his friends were still glaring at me. Wow, Asakawa-san is really popular, huh?


    Not wanting to get harassed any more, I bolted out of the classroom the moment all the classes were over. Of course, I held back my full strength, knowing that if I put all my power into it, I''d shatter the floor tiles with my magic. It''s not something I like to brag about, but even without magic, I''m pretty physically strong, so I managed to escape school without being harassed by the handsome guy.


    I managed to get out of school, but I still have that promise to meet Asakawa-san afterward... I''m not really feeling it, but I made the promise, so I have to keep it. As a socially awkward introvert, I''m terrible at saying no.


    I''ll stop by the condo I own near Shibuya Station. I have a spare change of clothes and dungeon gear there, so I can just walk from there to the station. I originally bought the place to spend money and for its convenience to the Shibuya Dungeon, so it should be perfect.


    That said, what could Asakawa-san want to talk to me about? It''s probably about the dungeon, isn''t it? I saved her because she was in danger, but it''s the second time... Plus, I told her I''d explain the shikigami later, so I really can''t refuse.


    Well, whatever. It''ll be what it''ll be... It''s not like I have anything to hide, so we''ll just talk, and then we''ll part ways. After that... Since it''s a day off, maybe I''ll skip the dungeon. I mostly go to the dungeon for work or to relieve stress...


    I can handle going to the dungeon every day, but if I spend all my time working and then go to the dungeon for fun too, I''ll lose my mind.

 Chapter 12: A Cafe Date!??

    "Sorry to keep you waiting! I hope I didn''t make you wait too long."


    "No... I wasn''t really waiting, anyway."


    It kind of feels... like we''re a couple on a date. If I keep thinking like this, I''ll probably get punched by that handsome guy. I need to restrain myself.


    "You know, you can just talk normally?"


    "P-Please, spare me, Asakawa-san."


    "You can call me Nanami if you want."


    "Eek."


    I made the same sound as when I was threatened by that handsome guy. It seems like the fear of getting too close to Asakawa-san and the fear of being attacked by that handsome guy are on the same level for me. Well, getting too close to Asakawa-san will probably lead to getting beaten up by that handsome guy, so I guess it''s the same thing.


    "Well, whatever. Shall we go?"


    "Y-Yes."


    It looks like she gave up on that idea. If it were the staff at the Shibuya Dungeon, I could talk normally because I''m familiar with them... but I can''t talk face-to-face with people at school. I know it''s usually the opposite, but as a dungeon recluse, this makes sense for me.


    Since we met in front of Shibuya Station, I thought she might take me to some trendy place where popular people hang out, but we ended up going to a caf¨¦ right in front of the station''s underground dungeon.


    This caf¨¦ is one I often use, where many dungeon explorers hang out. Regular customers hardly ever come here. It''s practically an explorer-only place, so the prices are quite high. Well, considering they use high-quality beans for the coffee, it''s no surprise, but they also have private rooms. Even though it''s a caf¨¦.


    "It''s my first time coming to this caf¨¦."


    "R-Really?"


    "Yeah? I mean, the money I earn goes toward tuition, food, living expenses... all sorts of things."


    "S-So you live alone, huh?"


    "Yeah."


    That''s kind of surprising. I always thought that someone as polite as her would definitely be living at home somewhere near Tokyo, but it turns out Asakawa-san lives alone.


    "My dad insisted on choosing a place with top-notch security since I''m a high school girl living alone... but it''s still expensive, you know?"


    "Well... yeah, that makes sense."


    I own a few condos myself, so I kind of get it, but not really. I mean, I only buy high-security, expensive condos. But I do know the general market rate for rent and such, so I understand how much a secure place costs. Lately, land prices are higher for places near dungeons than for those near stations.


    "Phew... It was hot outside."


    "...Yeah."


    "Hehe... Haha! You''re nervous, aren''t you?"


    "Sorry."


    Well, it is July, but I didn''t say that out loud. And I ended up apologizing reflexively. My lack of communication skills is really making me want to cry.


    Asakawa-san is laughing it off, but a normal person would probably not want to talk to someone who just keeps apologizing. Well... if she said that after inviting me out, I''d be so shocked I''d probably skip school.


    "There aren''t many people our age who are seriously doing dungeon exploration, so I guess I got a bit excited."


    "...What about that handsome guy?"


    "Huh? Who?"


    "Um... the guy in our class with brown hair."


    "Oh, Kurihara-kun?" sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yeah, that''s right, Kurihara-kun.


    He''s a C-rank explorer like Asakawa-san, so I figured he''d be someone she could talk to. Has he been erased from her mind or something?


    "Well... Kurihara-kun is, how do I put it... complicated?"


    "C-Complicated..."


    "Sorry. I was trying to be polite... I''m not really comfortable around him."


    Poor handsome guy.


    "Being an explorer is dangerous, so not many people want to do it."


    "But there are a lot of people with the qualification, right?"


    "They only have it for the sake of having it, or they just stick to the upper floors. There aren''t many people who go as deep as the middle floors, like you and me."


    Well... that''s true. It''s a qualification you can put on your resume, so a lot of people get it even if they''ve never actually gone into a dungeon. Still, the government is probably just happy to have more qualified explorers. They keep track of how many people are actively exploring since the qualification needs to be renewed annually.


    About half the people in our class have the explorer qualification, but most only go into dungeons as a side job. The only ones seriously doing it are probably just me, Asakawa-san, and that handsome guy who''s supposedly C-rank.


    "That''s why classmates who are active explorers are really valuable. Can we exchange contact information?"


    "...Sure."


    "What''s with the hesitation?"


    She laughed at me again. But, wow, her smile is really cute.


    No, it''s just that as an introverted loner, I get all awkward when someone asks to exchange contact information. And she''s way too close to me, psychologically speaking, just because we''re both explorers. If she keeps this up, it''s easy for someone like me to fall for her, so she really should stop.


    "You seem a bit awkward in conversation, but you can respond normally. So why are you always alone in the classroom?"


    "...That''s a no-go topic for introverted loners."


    "Huh? Really?"


    "It is."


    "Got it."


    Wait, she actually understood that? I said it, but I couldn''t even convince myself with that explanation, so why does it make sense to her?


    "Sorry to keep you waiting."


    Just as I was struggling with my conversation with Asakawa-san, our drinks arrived. It seems she ordered tea, but I''m still a coffee person, no matter what. I do like tea, but if I had to choose, it''d be coffee.


    Whether or not I add sugar and milk depends on the beans, but I generally prefer it black. That''s my favorite.


    "..."


    "Is something wrong?"


    "No, it''s just... you ordered something pretty expensive."


    Well, coffee can be so expensive that you can''t afford to think about the price. But it''s not like I drink it just because it''s expensive.


    "I''ll... pay for it."


    "Huh? But I''m making pretty good money too, you know?"


    "You mentioned tuition and stuff earlier."


    "But we go to the same school, right?"


    She''s got a point... But I can''t exactly tell her that I''ve been sighing at the growing numbers in my bank account, so what should I do?


    "Well... if you answer my questions, I''ll let you pay for it."


    "...I don''t really see how that benefits me."


    "You''re right! S-Sorry."


    "No, it''s fine... I''ll pay. And I''ll answer your questions."


    I mean, the whole reason we''re here at this caf¨¦ is for me to answer her questions. Paying for the drinks and answering questions are separate issues.


    "T-Thank you... So, here''s my first question."


    "Go ahead."


    "It was you, Kisaragi-kun, who saved me yesterday and the day before, right?"


    So that''s what she wanted to talk about. But didn''t she already have a pretty good idea? She seemed confident when we talked in class.


    Well, there''s nothing to hide, so I''ll just tell her everything.

 Chapter 13: A Surprising Revelation!

    "There''s no mistake."


    "..."


    Huh? Why does she look so surprised? Didn''t she ask because she was sure?


    "It''s just... you admitted it so easily that it caught me off guard."


    "I mean, it''s not like I''m hiding anything."


    It''s not that I''m intentionally hiding anything. It''s just that explaining or registering things can be a hassle, so I haven''t really put any information out there, but I''m still a normal explorer.


    It''s just that explaining things is a hassle, so if I''m asked a question, I''ll answer it. Even the branch manager knows my real name and about my shikigami, though I haven''t mentioned my trump card because he never asked.


    "I see... so you''re not hiding anything."


    "Huh?"


    "It''s nothing."


    She seemed to have an idea about something... What could it be?


    "Can I ask the next question?"


    "Go ahead."


    Since I''m not hiding anything, it doesn''t bother me if she asks a lot of questions. Besides, after being saved by something unknown twice, I can understand why she''d be curious.


    "Those... things you''re controlling, what are they?"


    "You mean the shikigami? They''re creatures I created, so they''re not monsters."


    "Really!?"


    They''re not monsters, so they don''t have magic stones, and when they die, they don''t turn to ash. Because of their appearance, they can be mistaken for monsters, so I usually don''t summon them in public places, but it was an emergency when I saved Asakawa-san. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "S-Shikigami, huh... Like an onmyoji?"


    "No, I''m not an onmyoji..."


    "Can''t you use spells or something?"


    "I can use magic."


    "I can use magic too."


    It''s just that creating and controlling creatures is called shikigami-jutsu, but I''m not an onmyoji, and I can use magic just like anyone else. Well, since my physical abilities are better than most people''s, I usually prefer close combat with a sword rather than using magic.


    "I see... so that''s a type of magic?"


    "Yes, since they''re created with magic power."


    The convenient thing about shikigami-jutsu is that once you create a creature, you can summon and dismiss it freely. You have to imagine it in detail to be able to use it, and its strength changes depending on how much magic power you put into it. If you create it properly, you can even give it a sense of self. My Raiju yawns like a big dog because I''ve given it self-awareness.


    "Does that mean I could use it too!? It''d be so cute to have a dog for my streams!"


    "Wait a second."


    "Huh?"


    I mustered up the courage to touch Asakawa-san''s hand. Wow... it''s so smooth. Are all girls like this? No, that''s not the point.


    "Hmm... if you work really hard, it might be possible?"


    "W-What do you mean?"


    "Shikigami-jutsu requires innate talent."


    By touching someone''s body, you can sense their magic power. This is common knowledge, but I was checking whether Asakawa-san''s magic power was suitable for shikigami-jutsu. That being said, there''s no clear standard, so it''s just a maybe.


    It''s about the quality of the magic power. Without the right innate talent, you can''t master shikigami-jutsu. It operates on principles entirely different from ordinary magic.


    "Innate talent, huh."


    "Yes. You wouldn''t be able to use it as freely as I can."


    "I see... that''s a shame."


    She must have been really hoping she could use it. She looks really disappointed.


    "''Raiju.''"


    "Huh?"


    I channeled my magic and summoned Raiju. This time, though, it''s much smaller than usual¡ªabout palm-sized. The little Raiju, summoned with a pop, looked up at me as if to say, "Why did you summon me so small?" But in this size, it''s not scary at all.


    "C-Cute!"


    "I guess I had the talent for shikigami-jutsu... so I can summon them like this whenever I want."


    "That''s amazing!"


    "T-Thank you."


    This is bad. I''m not used to being praised, so I''m starting to feel embarrassed. When the staff at the branch praises me, it usually just goes in one ear and out the other, but being complimented face-to-face by a girl like this makes me blush. If a beautiful girl smiles at you and says you''re amazing, of course, you''d be happy! Maybe I''m not as emotionally drained as I thought!


    "Raiju-chan is so cute."


    "...Don''t make that face."


    Is this what they call doting on something? Asakawa-san is stroking and prodding the little Raiju, her eyes sparkling, but every time she does, Raiju looks at me with a face full of displeasure.


    "Guess I have no choice."


    "Oh..."


    Raiju seemed really uncomfortable, so I dismissed it. Asakawa-san looked a bit disappointed, but when she saw my face, she seemed to remember that we were in the middle of a conversation and shook her head, clearing her throat.


    "S-So, next question."


    "Ah, okay."


    She''s pretending that didn''t happen.


    "You came to rescue me on the 41st floor, so are you C-rank?"


    "I wasn''t really there to rescue you... but let''s just go with that."


    At that time, Raiju was just following the scent of blood down to the lower floors. I had no idea Asakawa-san was on the brink of death.


    "My explorer rank... isn''t C, though."


    "Wait, you went to the lower floors without being C-rank!?"


    She''s got the wrong idea.


    "Asakawa-san, you''re C-rank, right?"


    "That''s right. I just recently reached C-rank, so I thought I''d try the lower floors, but I failed twice."


    So she streams, huh.


    Still, it must have taken a lot of effort to reach C-rank as a high school student... That''s pretty impressive. I''ve never bothered to rank up past E, so I can''t even imagine how hard it must be to reach C.


    "This is my explorer card."


    "...Didn''t they tell you during the training not to show your explorer card to others carelessly?"


    "Huh? But you''re fine, right, Kisaragi-kun?"


    Where does that confidence come from?


    The explorer card contains a lot of important information. It has your address, explorer ID, birthdate, and other details, so it''s basically a form of identification. You''re not supposed to show it carelessly.


    Should I take this as a sign that she trusts me, or is she just being careless? Definitely the latter.


    "Sigh... fine."


    I took out my explorer card from my wallet and placed it on the table. It has personal information that I haven''t registered with the Explorer Association, so I really shouldn''t be showing it, but since she showed hers, it feels wrong not to show mine.


    "Hmm... what? EX?"


    "Uh... yeah."


    "Like, that EX?"


    "Is there another one?"


    She looks incredibly shocked.


    Come to think of it, this is the first time I''ve shown my explorer card to anyone since becoming EX. Maybe that''s why she''s so surprised.


    I guess it makes sense, there are only four EX-rank explorers in Japan... I should have been more careful about showing it.

 Chapter 14: Why Did She Suddenly Ask Me?

    "Your explorer registration name is ''UNKNOWN''... Are you the unidentified EX explorer?"


    "Huh, I didn''t know I was being called that."


    "Yeah! You''re the only EX-rank explorer in Japan whose identity was unknown!"


    Now that she mentions it, the other three have openly shared their personal information. I don''t really know much about how I''m perceived by the public since the only other explorers I know are the other three EX-ranks, but I never thought I was seen that way.


    "...Why don''t you ever say, ''I''m an EX-rank explorer!''?"


    Is she referring to when I was getting harassed by that pretty boy? Well, Asakawa-san seems kind, so I can understand why she might want to say something like that after seeing me get hassled.


    "I''m just not that interested in explorer ranks... so I don''t usually tell people."


    "Then why do you still dive into dungeons? Your rank can''t go any higher."


    "...For fun and profit? Also, it''s my job?"


    At first, I enjoyed diving into dungeons because the deeper I went, the more money I made. But then work started piling up, and the money kept increasing even though I had no time to spend it. It got tiresome.


    "I see... Alright, then I won''t tell anyone."


    "Are you sure? I don''t mind if people know... Wouldn''t it boost your streaming numbers?"


    "Oh, so you knew I was a streamer."


    "I only found out yesterday."


    "I see."


    She''s giving me a look like she thinks I''m not interested, which I guess is accurate. It''s not that I''m uninterested¡ªI just haven''t gotten to the point where I could be interested.


    "So why is your explorer name ''UNKNOWN''? It''s not because you wanted to keep it a secret, right?"


    "...When I registered, I thought I''d just use my real name, but I accidentally left the field blank, and they filled it in with that."


    "Really... Haha!"


    "Please don''t laugh."


    "I can''t help it... Haha!"


    Damn it. It really does feel like a cringeworthy moment from my past. I never managed to change it, so it''s just been left as is. Now that I''ve gained recognition as the EX-rank explorer ''UNKNOWN,'' it''s too late to change it.


    "I see... Well, I''m glad I got to learn more about you, Kisaragi-kun. And, I know it''s late, but thank you for saving my life twice."


    "...It was just a coincidence."


    "Even so, I''m grateful."


    Ah... She''s a good person. She has a normal level of dislike for people and a normal ability to show gratitude. She''s a human with a genuine humanity who can care for others, which is rare among explorers who dive into dungeons where lives are at stake.


    "I see... So when the association''s website says, ''EX-UNKNOWN resolved it,'' it''s because you were the one who handled it."


    "Ah..."


    She''s probably referring to the notices the Explorer Association puts out when a lower-floor-class monster appears on the upper or middle floors, and they need to regulate the dungeon. I guess it''s true that out of all the EX-rank explorers, I''m the one who lives closest to the Shibuya Dungeon, so my name comes up often.


    Last month, when I dealt with some weird crocodile-like creature on the upper floors, I saw the branch manager typing the information into the computer.


    "...Hmm."


    "Huh?"


    Asakawa-san started humming in thought while sipping her drink through a straw. Does she still have more questions? I don''t mind answering whatever she asks¡ªit''s not like I''ll die from it.


    "Hey, do you have any interest in dungeon streaming?"


    "Dungeon streaming..."


    Is that what her streaming is called? I don''t really know how you stream inside a dungeon, but I understand now that she''s doing some kind of dungeon exploration as a broadcast.


    "I''m not really sure what dungeon streaming is, to be honest."


    "You said you just found out yesterday... Did you mean my stream or dungeon streaming in general? Are you not up to date with online stuff?"


    "Well... I do use social media."


    I mostly just follow the official accounts of the games I play, so I''m not really up to date with general trends.


    "Even though you''re EX-rank?"


    "Does that have anything to do with it?"


    I''ve only been an EX-rank explorer for about two years, so it''s not like I know everything. I''m knowledgeable about dungeons, though.


    "If you''re interested, I was hoping you could help me."


    "..."


    For now, I decide to look up dungeon streaming on my phone since I don''t really understand it. As an introvert, I''m quite skilled at pulling out my phone in front of others. It''s also a surefire way to get people to dislike me.


    A quick search shows that dungeon streaming primarily focuses on showing dungeon exploration, but that''s not all. There are streamers affiliated with companies and others who do it independently. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Are you affiliated with a company?"


    "I''m not. I started out just posting something like a dungeon exploration diary."


    I see. If she''s an independent streamer, then she could team up with me for a dungeon exploration stream. That makes sense. More importantly, Asakawa-san wants to go to the lower floors but has been struggling to make progress. She probably wants my help since I seem strong.


    "But you told the pretty boy that you wanted to do it on your own, didn''t you?"


    "That was just an excuse to turn him down."


    Sorry, pretty boy.


    "Alright. I don''t mind helping."


    "Really!?"


    "Whoa!?"


    I was startled. Please don''t suddenly stand up and grab my hand like that. You''ll make me fall for you.


    But seriously, if she''s the one who asked me for help, why is she so surprised that I agreed? Did she not really want me to come, or did she just think I''d refuse? Definitely the latter.


    "Thank you, Kisaragi-kun!"


    "Y-You''re welcome..."


    That said, our conversation has made me curious about something. It''s not something I need to know immediately, but I feel like it''s important to ask before we start working together.


    "Asakawa-san, I think you''re quite successful as a dungeon streamer."


    "...Well, yeah. I can''t exactly say I''m not, even if I wanted to."


    "You seem to have a lot of viewers, and I assume you get a significant amount of donations, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "So why risk your life to stream a lower-floor exploration?"


    I understand that as a streamer, you need to try new things to prevent viewer numbers from dropping due to stagnation. But is it worth risking your life for that? For example, couldn''t you try exploring the Nagoya Dungeon, which probably has fewer streamers, or the Kamakura Dungeon? I feel like I need to ask this before I can fully support her.


    "I''m challenging the lower floors because I''m an explorer. There''s no other reason."


    "...I see. That makes sense."


    Ah... I see she has a bit of a reckless side as well. I guess she''s a C-rank for a reason.

 Chapter 15: Suddenly a Dungeon Streamer?

    "Today, I''ll be testing some magic in the mid-levels of Shibuya Dungeon!"


    Asakawa-san''s dungeon streaming had piqued my interest, and after agreeing to help her, I figured it would be wise to familiarize myself with her content. So, I sat down for dinner and started watching her archived streams.


    Her combat style was impressive, as I had seen during her fight with the Frost Wyvern. She uses a spear while simultaneously casting multiple layers of magic, similar to a magic knight in games, but with an unusual level of expertise.


    ''Here''s a bit of my magic!''


    "Her ability to cast multiple spells at once is astounding."


    Watching the stream, I realized that Asakawa-san relies heavily on her ability to cast numerous spells simultaneously, which was beyond my expectations. I''m not bad at magic myself, but casting 20 or 30 spells at once would take me considerable time. Yet, she''s doing it effortlessly, like it''s second nature. This is undoubtedly a rare talent.


    I tried casting multiple small light spells at once, but six was my limit. Attempting to cast more resulted in unstable forms or fluctuating output.


    "Wow, with talent like that, no wonder she''s a C-rank. Actually, that''s pretty incredible."


    It''s clear that Asakawa-san is doing something remarkable, probably more than she realizes.


    "¡­Amazing."


    Moreover, her popularity as a streamer is off the charts. The real-time replay feature shows so many comments flowing in that they''re impossible to keep up with, and there are several viewers donating tens of thousands of yen.


    The amount of money isn''t the issue. Frankly, amounts in the hundreds of thousands are easy to earn even on the lower floors, but from what I can see, she''s one of the top streamers, no question.


    "Sigh¡­"


    Did I really say I''d help with someone like this? I hope I don''t get attacked by her fans or anything. Not that getting stabbed with a kitchen knife would kill me, but still.


    "I''m like Urashima Taro."


    I became a dungeon explorer right after entering high school, and it seems that in the meantime, dungeon streaming has become a huge trend. It looks like people from overseas are also doing it, and seeing dungeons abroad that I''ve never visited does get me excited. Though, I stopped watching because I couldn''t understand what they were saying.


    "I really am like Urashima Taro¡ªgoing into a dungeon, only to come out and find the world has completely changed."


    Let me be clear. It looks like a lot of fun.


    Most streamers, from what I can see, don''t seem capable of handling even the mid-levels of a dungeon, but even so, watching them enjoy exploring dungeons reminds me of my earlier days, and I can''t help but feel a bit envious.


    "Huh?"


    As I returned to watching Asakawa-san''s stream archive, a message notification popped up on my phone. Usually, the only messages I get are promotional ones from shopping sites, but this time, the notification was from "Asakawa Nanami."


    "¡­"


    I hesitated a little before unlocking my phone and checking the message.


    [Thank you again for saving me.]


    [Looking forward to working with you!]


    "¡­How do I respond to this?"


    I''m not used to messaging apps. The only contacts in my phone are work-related, and I don''t really have any proper friends. Sending a stiff, business-like reply feels wrong¡­ I''m at a loss.


    [You''re welcome.]


    "Am I socially awkward even in text?"


    I ended up criticizing the message I sent myself. Streaming seems fun, but if I don''t fix this social awkwardness, I don''t think I''ll be able to help properly. Maybe I should just rescue her when she''s in danger and then stay off-camera the rest of the time?


    [You seem nervous, don''t you?]


    "She noticed. How does she know?"


    [Will you be at school tomorrow?]


    [If you are, let''s have a strategy meeting after class!]


    [It''s a promise!]


    "Wait, these messages are coming too fast."


    I couldn''t even reply before the next message arrived. Do all girls type this fast?


    [What are you doing now?]


    "The topic just changed¡­"


    But I can easily respond to this.


    [I was watching your stream, Asakawa-san.]


    "Okay, sent."


    I don''t know why, but that feels like an accomplishment. Even though it''s not really an accomplishment.


    [That''s kind of embarrassing.]


    [But aren''t you a streamer?]


    [That''s not the point.]


    "I don''t get it. Other classmates said they watch her streams too, so why is she embarrassed that I''m watching? Am I being tested or something?"


    [You''ll understand if you try streaming yourself, Kisaragi-kun.] S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Why is she using my first name?"


    I don''t think I''m that close with Asakawa-san¡­ Or is it just that the bar for friendship is way too high for a socially awkward introvert like me?


    "Streaming, huh¡­"


    After doing some research, I found out there are automatic cameras powered by magic stones. These cameras detect the subject''s magic and automatically track them, which is quite an impressive feat of technology. Naturally, they''re more expensive than regular recording equipment by at least an order of magnitude. I realized that dungeon streamers really do invest a lot in their craft.


    [What kind of camera do you use, Asakawa-san?]


    [I''m using the most expensive and durable one now.]


    [I used a cheaper one before, though.]


    "Well, of course. If she''s going to the mid-levels, it makes sense."


    I did some research and found out that her camera costs in the seven figures. I''m impressed that a high schooler would decide to buy something like that. I guess it just shows how much demand there is for dungeon streaming.


    "Sigh¡­ Maybe I should buy one too."


    I''m starting to get interested in dungeon streaming. Even if I don''t end up doing it myself, having a camera to record the dungeon would be useful. Especially when exploring uncharted floors, it would be handy to review the footage later.


    The camera I''d need should be highly durable and have a long battery life. After all, reaching the lower levels takes time, and exploring them isn''t a quick task. Some floors are so vast that I''ve even had to camp overnight. Of course, I could just turn the camera off until I reach the lower levels.

 Chapter 16: Info For Info

    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "...Good morning."


    As I was walking from the station to school, checking out various recording devices on my phone, I sensed Asakawa-san approaching from behind. It startled me a bit when she suddenly greeted me, but since I noticed her beforehand, it wasn''t too shocking... Well, except for the fact that it''s kind of creepy to notice someone''s presence like that.


    Everyone around us, dressed in the same school uniform, was giving us surprised looks, likely because Asakawa-san had greeted me. However, she didn''t seem to care, and I was too busy looking at cameras on my phone to pay much attention.


    "Oh, are you looking at cameras? They''re expensive!"


    "Well, the one you''re using is expensive too." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I saved up and worked hard to buy it. But... Tsukasa-kun, are you really thinking of buying that one all at once?"


    I am, actually. After all, I have more than enough money, so I might as well go all out and get the best. Of course, I''m not just looking at the price, if I''m going to start dungeon streaming for real, I need something high-performance. I can''t afford to hear complaints like "It''s impossible to film deep floors with this."


    "Are you getting interested in dungeon streaming?"


    "Yes. I need a high-performance camera to capture footage in the deep floors... What''s wrong?"


    "Huh, deep floors?"


    Why is she so surprised? If I''m going to film something, wouldn''t the deep floors be the most valuable footage?


    "If you really do it, it''ll be a big deal, you know?"


    "Huh? I don''t really get it... Are there no explorers streaming footage from the deep floors?"


    "Almost none, actually."


    Really? While the deep floors are generally accessible to A-rank explorers, with most saying it''s for S-rank only, I assumed there''d at least be some streamers.


    "Only one person has ever streamed from the deep floors."


    "One person?"


    "Yeah. It''s considered a legendary stream, watched worldwide, and the archive has over a hundred million views."


    She''s explaining this with such a serious expression. But I''ve seen S-rank explorers talk about the deep floors on TV, showing photos and such... Well, they probably had to prepare thoroughly before going there.


    "And that one person is an EX-rank."


    "Oh, the ''Disaster of the Dungeon,'' right?"


    "...What did you say?"


    "Huh? If it''s an EX-rank who streams, it must be her, right?"


    I was surprised. Please don''t shout like that...., it''s startling.


    "All the EX-rank explorers know each other. We even have each other''s contact info."


    "Oh, I see... I didn''t expect the ''Magical Princess'' to have such a nickname."


    "That''s another name she''s called by."


    Well, I guess they wouldn''t use "Disaster of the Dungeon" on TV. It''s nice that she has a cleaner nickname... though I still hold a grudge for the time she tried to pick a fight with me.


    We continued our casual conversation while walking into the school and eventually made it to class. It suddenly hit me¡ªI''m usually so bad at talking, but somehow I managed to have a normal conversation with Asakawa-san. Maybe I''m getting used to her?


    "So, Tsukasa-kun¡ª"


    "Huh?"


    Wait, did the atmosphere just freeze over? Did Asakawa-san use some kind of freezing magic when she walked into the classroom with me? The entire class is dead silent.


    "Hey, nerd. I told you not to get cocky."


    "S-Sorry?"


    Of course, it wasn''t Asakawa-san who froze the classroom, it was the presence of the class''s resident "handsome guy," glaring daggers at me as he walked over.


    "You said you understood what it means to get hit by a C-rank, right? So, you''re okay with getting punched now?"


    "I-I''m sorry... um, Kuribayashi-kun?"


    Oh no, he looks even angrier now. Did I mess up his name?


    "I''m gonna kill you!"


    "Wait, no! Don''t, Kuribayashi-kun!"


    "Oh, Kurihara-kun! Sorry about that."


    "What!?"


    "Tsukasa-kun, don''t provoke him!"


    "Did you just call him Tsukasa-kun!?"


    At this point, I''m not even sure who''s provoking who anymore.


    Kurihara-kun seemed ready to throw a punch, and the rest of the class was pale with fear. Maybe Kurihara-kun is the type of explorer who relies on physical strength? If that''s the case, he might actually kill someone if he hits them too hard.


    "What''s all this commotion about!?"


    "Tch!"


    Just as I was caught between Asakawa-san and Kurihara-kun, not knowing what to do, our homeroom teacher arrived.


    "You, nerd. Meet me on the roof after school."


    "Uh, the roof is off-limits¡ª"


    "If you don''t show up, I''ll kill you."


    Yikes. He''s not listening to anything I say.


    But... I''ve already promised to meet with Asakawa-san after school. If I tell him that, he''ll definitely get even angrier. How can I get out of this...?


    I spent the rest of the day trying to figure out an excuse to get out of the rooftop meeting, but nothing came to mind. When the final bell rang, I still had no solution, and Kurihara-kun gave me a look that said, "You know what''s coming."


    But Asakawa-san didn''t seem to care at all.


    "Let''s go have our strategy meeting, as promised!"


    "Huh?"


    "What?"


    Neither Kurihara-kun nor I could react in time before Asakawa-san grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the classroom. Kurihara-kun ran out into the hallway, glaring at me, but it''s not like I had a choice here.


    We ended up in an empty classroom.


    "The teacher said we could use this room during club hours if it was free."


    "How did you manage that?"


    "I told him it was for dungeon research!"


    Well, it''s not exactly a lie...


    "What''s the plan for our strategy meeting?"


    "Hehe... First, I want you to teach me everything about conquering the lower floors!"


    Armed with a notebook and pen, Asakawa-san grinned at me. Well, I guess the fastest way to tackle a dungeon is to get advice from someone experienced... but does that really count as a strategy meeting?


    "And I''ll teach you all about dungeon streaming, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Please do."


    This is important. I''m not sure if I''ll actually start streaming, but it''s good to know the ins and outs. Considering she''s one of the top streamers, getting information from her is invaluable. And if all I have to do in exchange is share my knowledge of the lower floors, that''s a fair trade.

 Chapter 17: First Friend

    "Alright, let''s figure out how I can be effective on the lower floors!"


    "...That''s not something we can figure out at school, right?"


    "Y-You think so?"


    "Well, there are bigger issues to address first."


    Whether or not Asakawa-san can handle the lower floors ultimately depends on her ability to fight. It would be faster if we could watch her fight monsters in the dungeon, but having a theoretical discussion about it in a classroom isn''t going to be very helpful.


    To be honest, before we even discuss whether she can handle the lower floors, I think she lacks sufficient knowledge about them.


    The dungeon up to the middle floors is, frankly, like a paradise. Once you defeat the monsters, environmental factors pose almost no threat, and the monsters themselves are usually easy to kill with repeated attacks. But the lower floors are a completely different story.


    "I''m sure you''ve experienced this, but from the 41st floor onward, it''s like a dimly lit maze of caves."


    "Tsukasa-kun, you don''t have to be so formal, you know?"


    "...That translucent skeleton knight you nearly died to is a highly troublesome monster that avoids all attacks except for specific ones."


    Asakawa-san said something, but I ignored her entirely.


    When Raiju first went to help her, she was about to be killed by a translucent skeleton knight, the Skeleton Lord, a monster that nullifies all but certain attacks.


    "That initial surprise-killer skeleton''s astral body requires a strong magical attack to be properly hit. Basically, this initial surprise-killer skeleton just uses magic to thin and extend its body, so you just need to grasp it correctly."


    "...I don''t get it."


    "With your magical sense, I think you''ll be able to grasp it easily."


    Frankly, when it comes to sensing magic, Asakawa-san is far superior to me. I don''t have any way of perceiving magic like she does.


    "So there are lots of those down there?"


    "That initial surprise-killer skeleton is the strongest monster around the 41st floor, so you''ll be fine."


    "Are you sure about that?"


    "It''s not a problem."


    There are also frogs that keep regenerating unless you destroy their heads, but that''s something you''ll have to learn through experience.


    "Anyway, the key to survival in the lower floors is information."


    "But since no one''s really streaming dungeon exploration, there''s not much information available, right?"


    "...That''s true."


    Maybe that''s why exploration beyond the lower floors hasn''t progressed much. The Shibuya Dungeon is relatively well-explored, with progress up to the 74th floor, but in places like the Nagoya Dungeon, with its unique environment, exploration has barely reached the 40th floor.


    I don''t necessarily want the dungeons to become more crowded, but if it would reduce casualties, it''s worth considering. Maybe I should talk to the guild leader about it.


    "I really think you should start streaming your lower-floor explorations, Tsukasa-kun. That might give others the motivation to push forward too."


    "...Well, that''s true."


    "In that case, I''ll teach you everything about streaming. You can learn a lot while being my assistant... Is that okay?"


    Two birds with one stone, I guess.


    I can learn about streaming from Asakawa-san while giving her advice on the lower floors. That way, we both get closer to our goals.


    "Alright. But... I can''t do it tomorrow."


    "Why not?" S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Well, EX-rank has its responsibilities."


    Oh, right. I have plans to visit the association with Grandma tomorrow.


    "Okay, so tomorrow''s a free day then."


    "Yes. I''ll still be at school, though."


    "That''s good. I''m glad you''ve been able to come to school recently."


    "...Yeah, I guess."


    Honestly, I don''t have many fond memories of school. Lately, Kurihara-kun has been giving me a hard time, and ever since I started hanging out with Asakawa-san, the stares from my classmates have been hard to ignore. Those who watch dungeon streams are beginning to realize that I''m the mysterious "Kisaragi-kun" who saved Asakawa-san.


    Even so, for Asakawa-san, school is probably a place she cherishes above all else.


    "Still... we''re graduating in half a year."


    "That''s thinking ahead."


    "Time flies by, you know? I wish I had met you sooner, Tsukasa-kun."


    "...I''m happy to hear that."


    From her perspective, I''m probably just a useful ally for dungeon streaming. But maybe she also feels like she could have made more progress if we had met earlier.


    "You''re really interesting as both an explorer and a friend, so I wish we could have become friends sooner."


    "...Wait, we''re friends!?"


    "Weren''t we!?"


    I''m more surprised than you are! I mean, I''ve never really had any friends, even before high school, and becoming an explorer only made it harder. I was convinced I''d live my life alone, so suddenly having a female friend is shocking. Do friends just form naturally like this...?


    "Friends... friends..."


    "Is it that strange?"


    "This is my first... friend."


    "Really!?"


    Well, someone like Asakawa-san, who''s liked by everyone, probably has lots of friends, but I never thought I''d have any friends, let alone a pretty and cute one. Life really is full of surprises.


    "I see... Your first friend. In that case, we should do more friend-like things together."


    "But I''m someone who only has dungeons and work as friends."


    "Sounds like you already have friends."


    "They''re not people."


    Talking with Asakawa-san doesn''t tire me out. I''m clearly talking more than usual, but I don''t feel exhausted when I''m with her. Maybe it''s because she''s a friend. The other EX-rank explorers aren''t really friends, so maybe that''s why it feels different.


    "Hehe, then let''s hang out somewhere other than the dungeon next time."


    "I''ll do my best."


    "You don''t have to try so hard. We''re friends, right?"


    She laughed at me again, but it wasn''t in a mean way... It was more of a warm, genuine laugh. Even though I''ve never had a friend before, I can tell she''s enjoying our time together. It''s strange, but I feel a little happy too.


    "Hehe."


    "Oh, Tsukasa-kun, you smiled too."


    Asakawa-san''s smile as she said that is something I probably won''t forget for a while.

 Chapter 18: Ex Rank Meeting

    The day after I had the strategy meeting with Asakawa-san, Kurihara-kun didn''t bother me at school. Well, that''s because Kurihara-kun didn''t come to school at all. Since he''s also an explorer, there might be various reasons for his absence... But considering his usual behavior, he seems like a pretty lousy person, so it''s probably just him skipping school.


    Not that I''m in a position to talk, given how often I miss school for official reasons.


    After casually chatting with Asakawa-san throughout the school day and then heading home, I changed into more comfortable clothes and made my way to Shibuya Station. I had received a text from Grandma saying she''d be waiting in a car to pick me up.


    "Grandma, long time no see."


    As expected, when I got into the fancy-looking car at Shibuya Station, Grandma was already waiting inside.


    "I''ve told you before... I don''t remember raising such an impudent grandchild."


    "You''re my grandma, after all. It''s just how I talk to you."


    "Good grief... Stop using titles that are both respectful and disrespectful at the same time."


    Grandma, who was waiting in the car, is my benefactor and mentor. She turned 67 this year, I believe. Her hair has turned completely white, but she still stands tall with no signs of age-related stooping, exuding an impressive aura. To be honest, I''ve often thought I want to grow up to be as cool as she is.


    "Driver, let''s get going."


    "Y-Yes, ma''am!"


    "...Is this driver new?"


    This car belongs to the Explorer Association, and the driver is one of their staff, but considering how nervous he seems in response to Grandma, he''s probably new.


    "Grandma''s not that scary, so there''s no need to be so tense."


    "S-She''s not... scary... right?"


    "Stop chatting and get moving already."


    "Yes, ma''am!"


    Seriously... Grandma always speaks so harshly. She''ll probably offer him some treats later out of concern, so she could just start off being nice. That said, since Grandma has been active since the dawn of the dungeons, I can somewhat understand why her words are so stern.


    As we drove, I glanced over at Grandma and noticed she was already dozing off. She''s a busy person who''s always in high demand, so I can''t blame her. Even though I admire her and want to become as cool as she is, I certainly don''t want to be the kind of adult who can fall asleep in a car like this.


    As I fiddled with my phone, the car soon came to a stop. The door was gently opened from the outside, and I stepped out to find that we had arrived at the headquarters of the Explorer Association.


    "Get out quickly."


    "Oh, you''re awake."


    For some reason, she let out a deep sigh.


    As Grandma urged me, I got out of the car and followed the Association staff member.


    The Association is run directly by the government. Its official name is the Japan Dungeon Exploration Association under the Ministry of Dungeon Affairs... In other words, it''s an organization under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Dungeon Affairs. That''s why they have such a grand and well-funded headquarters.


    "This way, please."


    I was led to a large conference room. Today, a meeting was to be held with several representatives of S-rank explorers and all the EX-rank explorers. By the way, the reason Grandma and I came together is that she was the one who wrote the recommendation for me to become an EX-rank explorer.


    "...Finally here, huh? UNKNOWN."


    The stern-looking man sitting at the very back of the conference room, right in front of the screen, raised his gaze and directed it at me. He''s Ryunosuke Shishijima, the president of the Japan Dungeon Exploration Association. I''ve always thought his name was a bit much with all the "lion" and "dragon" imagery, but at least his first name isn''t "dragon," so I guess it''s fine...


    No, it''s not really important.


    "I got here as fast as I could after school."


    "My apologies for the rush. Truly, I appreciate it... Especially since the Magic Princess won''t be joining us today."


    "Oh, haha..."


    The Dungeon Calamity, as she''s often called, is a free spirit who never keeps time or shows up to meetings.


    "Now that the three EX-rank explorers have arrived, we can begin the meeting."


    As Shishijima said this, he projected something onto the screen behind him and stepped aside.


    "First, I''d like to thank you all for taking time out of your busy schedules to be here. Especially the three EX-rank explorers... Ryosuke Aizawa, Kaede Jinguuji, and UNKNOWN."


    I glanced over at Grandma Jinguuji-san who looked completely disinterested with her eyes half-closed. I then turned my gaze to Aizawa-san, who looked like a tired salaryman-like old man sitting across from me, and he gave me a wry smile.


    It''s been a while since I''ve seen multiple EX-rank explorers gathered like this. We don''t hold these meetings regularly, and I''ve missed several due to other assignments.


    "The topic of today''s discussion is dungeon streaming."


    When Shishijima-san said that and projected the materials onto the screen, my mind went blank for a moment. Why would the Association gather Japan''s top explorers to talk about dungeon streaming? I couldn''t understand it. To me, dungeon streaming was just entertainment.


    "In recent years, dungeon streaming aimed at generating ad revenue on video platforms has become popular. The government sees this as a positive trend, as it doesn''t violate any laws and has contributed to a rise in new explorers, which had been on the decline."


    Well, I guess it makes sense... If dungeon streaming becomes popular, more people might be inspired to become explorers. And if they can make a living from it, even more people would be motivated.


    "However, there are also streamers who, distracted by their broadcasts, lose focus or engage in dangerous activities to boost their viewer counts." sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I think I saw something like that on TV.


    "This time, I want to hear your opinions on the future of dungeon streaming."


    Are you really asking us? The people here don''t even stream dungeons. I think you''re asking the wrong people.


    "Shishijima."


    "...What is it?"


    "Aren''t you asking the wrong people? I know absolutely nothing about dungeon streaming."


    She said it... Grandma, you didn''t have to be so blunt. Now Shishijima-san looks completely baffled!

 Chapter 19: Rules

    Grandma had already frozen the entire meeting room, or rather, Shishijima-san with her words, and I was left wondering what to do. Should I step in and help?


    "Well, I''ve recently... started thinking about trying dungeon streaming."


    "Oh, really?"


    Shishijima-san''s face clearly showed his relief. If only Grandma would show a little more consideration, Shishijima-san wouldn''t have to suffer so much... but then again, she''s always been like this since I first met her a few years ago.


    "So, UNKNOWN... Kisaragi-kun, you''re thinking of starting dungeon streaming?"


    "Well, it''s more like I''ve just gotten interested in it and am still in the preparation stage."


    "It''s rare for you to show interest in something. I thought your life revolved around dungeons, food, games, and sleep."


    "Even if it''s true, please don''t say it out loud."


    It might be true, but some truths can hurt when spoken!


    "We''ve observed the dangerous behaviors associated with dungeon streaming. Personally... I think regulating it might be one solution."


    "That wouldn''t work. While dungeons are technically national assets, we don''t have the means to fully monitor everything that happens inside. Besides, imposing regulations now would only provoke backlash and could result in a decline in the number of new explorers, which has just started to rise."


    I understand what Aizawa-san is trying to say. Although dungeon streaming can be made safer with high-performance cameras that allow automatic recording, the momentary distractions from checking comments or adjusting settings could prove fatal.


    It''s a complex issue. Considering Aizawa-san''s position as the head of the Explorer Union, it''s understandable that he might lean towards regulation.


    "What about other countries?"


    "Among the leading nations, the United States and Australia were the first to establish laws regarding dungeon streaming. The U.S. has opted for a fully permissive stance, while Australia has some restrictions but generally allows it."


    "So, we can''t be the only ones imposing regulations."


    Countries with a high number of dungeons are considered leading nations, and Australia, which quickly boosted its national power thanks to dungeons, is indeed proactive when it comes to dungeon-related matters. The U.S., often called the land of freedom, remains fully supportive. As for the other leading nations like the U.K., Germany, and France...


    well, they''re unlikely to impose strict regulations either. If Japan were to regulate dungeon streaming alone, it could potentially cause an outflow of explorers to other countries.


    "The issue isn''t with dungeon streaming itself, but with the dangerous behaviors that accompany it. Perhaps it''s a matter of insufficient awareness?"


    "Kisaragi-kun is right. We won''t regulate dungeon streaming itself, but dangerous actions must be addressed. We should hold mandatory training sessions for all explorers to raise awareness."


    Dungeon streaming has made dungeons more accessible, which has attracted more people, but it might also have dulled the sense of danger. Most of the viewers and streamers don''t even make it past the middle floors, so it''s crucial to instill a proper sense of caution. This isn''t really about dungeon streaming itself.


    "So, the official stance of the Association is that there''s no issue with dungeon streaming?"


    "Exactly. Kisaragi-kun, feel free to stream without any concerns."


    "Thank you."


    I still think they''re consulting the wrong group, but it''s reassuring to get direct approval from the Association. Once Asakawa-san is trained enough to handle the lower floors, I might start streaming the deeper levels myself. It''s a bit of an opportunistic way to put it, but with no one else streaming the lower levels of Shibuya Dungeon, it''s like sitting on a treasure trove.


    "Streaming, huh... I''m not interested in popularity, but if it helps with public relations, it might be a good idea. Why not have the Association hire official streamers?"


    "Even though we operate with some degree of freedom, we''re still a government agency, so that''s not possible."


    "Typical rigid thinking¡ªvery Japanese."


    That guy... I think he''s an S-rank explorer. Rumor has it that he''s been to the deeper floors several times with his party, and he''s somewhat known among the general public as well.


    "If you''re going to start streaming, I might make a guest appearance. I could say I''m your mentor."


    "I don''t remember learning much from you to be honest."


    "You ungrateful brat, after I taught you shikigami summoning." sea??h th§× nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Sure, Grandma knows a lot and is knowledgeable, but I hardly remember being taught anything directly. Most of the time, she''d just hand me a book from the house and tell me to read it. Plus, she only got into it when she was younger but gave up because she didn''t have the talent for it.


    "Well then, I suppose that wraps up today''s meeting. As usual, the minutes will be sent to everyone. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out anytime."


    For S-rank and higher explorers, who tend to be quite busy, meetings are always kept short. Today''s meeting was no more than thirty minutes.


    Now that the meeting''s over, I should go check out cameras for streaming. I''d better look for some high-end ones in stores since I''m still a beginner.


    "Kisaragi-kun, if you''re looking for a camera, try this store."


    "Huh?"


    As I was about to leave the meeting room, Aizawa-san suddenly spoke to me.


    "I don''t stream myself, but I use some pretty good cameras for recording inside dungeons. I recommend this one."


    "Oh, thank you!"


    This guy really is kind.


    The Explorer Association is a government organization, while the Explorer Union is a group of explorers. It''s sort of like a labor union.


    The Union was apparently formed after the government treated explorers like slaves to collect dungeon resources, leading to a lot of casualties in a short time. The Union now serves to protect explorers.


    Since Aizawa-san is the head of the Union and an EX-rank explorer, it makes sense that he''d use high-end cameras for dungeon recording. Though, from what I hear, he''s basically a corporate slave, constantly buried in paperwork, which makes him the kind of adult I don''t want to become.


    With the store''s address Aizawa-san gave me in hand, I quickly left the meeting room.

 Chapter 20: Unexpected Turn Of Events

    After visiting the store that Aizawa-san recommended and purchasing a seven-figure magic stone camera, I felt in unusually high spirits as I headed to school. Recently, there haven''t been any high-priority missions, so as a student with an EX rank, I''ve had more time to attend school. I wonder if the receptionist lady at the association is somehow handling things for me.


    I should bring her a gift sometime.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Good morning, Asakawa-san."


    "...You''re in a good mood." sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Asakawa-san seemed surprised, but it wasn''t really a big deal.


    It''s been a long time since I''ve started something new, and it reminded me of the excitement I felt when I first became an explorer. I need to help Asakawa-san while also testing out my streaming equipment.


    "Hey."


    "Huh?"


    As I sat down, thinking about the days ahead, suddenly the handsome guy came over. I don''t think I''ve done anything today to warrant this, but why is he glaring at me?


    "I told you to stay after school yesterday, didn''t I?"


    "Well, shouldn''t you be saying that to Asakawa-san instead?"


    "What!?"


    Suddenly, he grabbed me by the collar. It feels like his violent tendencies are increasing day by day. It''s almost like he''s been influenced by some kind of monster.


    The other classmates seemed shocked that he grabbed me so suddenly, but most of them averted their eyes, likely out of fear of the handsome guy.


    "Make sure you stay after school today. I''m going to crush you."


    "I-I understand."


    "You''d better. If you try to run, I''ll hunt you down and kill you!"


    "V-Violence isn''t good!"


    Asakawa-san stepped in between us. While I personally appreciate her help, it might be a bad move considering the situation. The handsome guy clearly has a thing for Asakawa-san and can''t stand the idea of some introverted nobody like me getting close to her. Right now, he''s ignoring Asakawa-san''s words and is just glaring at me, grinding his teeth.


    "I won''t let you get away with this."


    "Wait, Kurihara-kun!"


    "It''s okay, Asakawa-san."


    Well, it''ll all work out somehow.


    After classes ended, I was called to the teacher''s office. Asakawa-san had already left with a quick "See you tomorrow."


    "It''s almost time for the final exams, so I''ve gathered summaries and key points from the lessons you missed."


    "I''m really sorry. Thank you so much."


    "Don''t worry about it. After all, you''re a busy explorer!"


    The teacher seemed oddly fixated on emphasizing how busy I was as an explorer. I wonder if they just don''t like students who don''t attend school regularly. Well, from a homeroom teacher''s perspective, there''s no reason to like it. Honestly, considering all this, I wish I had just transferred to a correspondence school.


    Feeling tired after being lectured for about 30 minutes, I decided to head home, only to find a message on my work phone in my locker.


    [You didn''t answer your phone, so I assume you''re in class. Please return the call as soon as possible.]


    The message was sent a little while ago, so if I call back now, they should still pick up. Without hesitation, I dialed the number.


    "Hello?"


    "Hello. What''s going on?"


    "Sorry to call during class."


    "That''s okay."


    As always, the familiar woman answered, but come to think of it, I''ve never actually called her by name. I''ve always just referred to her as "the lady," and I never thought it was necessary. But since I might be bothering her more often once I start streaming, maybe I should start using her name.


    "There''s a magical anomaly detected in the upper levels of Shibuya Dungeon."


    "...What''s the scale?"


    "+9."


    Devices installed in the dungeon can detect fluctuations in the dungeon''s magical energy, and when these readings deviate significantly, it''s called a magical anomaly. The readings range from 0 in normal conditions, with a maximum of +10 or a minimum of -10 in extreme cases.


    Several issues can arise from a magical anomaly, but when the reading is high, it usually signals the appearance of monsters far stronger than those appropriate for that floor. An anomaly of +9 means a situation that requires multiple S-rank explorers or even an EX rank, indicating the potential emergence of a high-level monster from the deeper levels in the upper floors.


    If such a creature appeared in the upper levels, it would be a massacre.


    "Have evacuation orders been issued?"


    "They''re being frantically carried out as we speak."


    "What about the other EX ranks?"


    "Jinguji Kaede and Aizawa Ryosuke are both in Sapporo right now, so..."


    "No need to continue. I assume she''s unreachable as usual."


    "You know her well."


    The last one is a total free spirit, so I figured as much. A few months ago, she suddenly announced, "I''m off to study abroad in the U.S.!" and left Japan without a word since.


    "I''m heading there immediately."


    "Thank you, Tsukasa-kun. I''m really sorry to rely on you so much, but..."


    "It''s fine. Leave it to me, Shinano-san."


    After abruptly ending the call, I dashed out of school. My classmates stared as I ran, but I didn''t have time to worry about that. I vaguely remember having some after-school plans, but the mission takes priority.


    I arrived at Shibuya Dungeon as fast as I could, without even changing clothes, and saw that the branch chief''s usual laid-back demeanor was nowhere to be seen.


    "Glad you could make it."


    "What''s the situation?"


    "There''s still only the anomaly, but no physical manifestations yet. Some explorers in the middle floors haven''t returned, and there are still those in the upper floors who haven''t made it back either."


    Even though they''re being contacted, it''s not always possible to return immediately from a dungeon. If they''re being attacked by monsters or are surrounded, it''s not like they can just drop everything and leave. Even when trying to evacuate smoothly, the monsters don''t care about our circumstances and could easily attack.


    It wasn''t exactly the fastest I''ve ever moved, given that I had to wait until after school, deal with some time in the staff room, and then take the train, but at least the monsters hadn''t appeared yet.


    As I was thinking about all this, another message came through on my personal phone.


    [There''s an evacuation order in Shibuya Dungeon, right?]


    "...No way."


    A bad feeling crept over me as I read Asakawa-san''s message. I quickly activated her stream from my smartwatch, and sure enough, the words "Live Streaming" were displayed on the screen.


    "Someone stuck in the middle floors is streaming during an evacuation?"


    The branch chief, too, looked at my device with a grim expression. I had seen Asakawa-san dash out of the classroom as soon as school ended, but how did I not foresee this happening?


    It can''t be helped. I''ll have to go save her, along with the other explorers who haven''t evacuated yet.

 Chapter 21: Boney Onslaught

    [Should I cut the stream?]


    [It''s easier to locate you if you keep it on, so please leave it running.]


    [If possible, could you gather any explorers nearby?]


    [Got it!]


    As I rode on the back of my summoned Kirin, I checked the list of explorers currently inside Shibuya Dungeon. Most of the explorers who haven''t evacuated yet seem to be in the middle floors, which means they might encounter the cause of the magical anomaly.


    Asakawa-san''s stream continued, but I ignored it for now since I was using it to keep track of her current location. Based on the data, there doesn''t seem to be any explorers in Shibuya Dungeon right now who are more capable than Asakawa-san. So, the plan is for her to assist the explorers from below, while I take care of things from above. That way, we can finish this quickly.


    I spotted some explorers battling monsters in the upper floors, so I summoned Raij¨± and scattered the monsters. The explorers, surprised, turned their attention to me.


    "Are you all okay?"


    "Hey, that was my kill!"


    "A full evacuation order has been issued for the entire Shibuya Dungeon."


    "What!?"


    Looks like they didn''t know. Well, if their phones were off, they wouldn''t have received the alert.


    Under normal circumstances, stealing another explorer''s kill would be considered bad manners, but this is an emergency, so it can''t be helped. First, I need to get these four¡ªtwo men and two women¡ªout of here. However, telling them to return to the upper floors when there''s a magical anomaly detected there would be more dangerous.


    "Follow me. It''s too dangerous to return to the upper floors with a magical anomaly detected there."


    "W-Where are we going?"


    "We''re heading to the middle floors. There should be other explorers who haven''t managed to escape yet."


    Judging by their appearance, these explorers are still unfamiliar with the upper floors, so they might feel uneasy about heading to the middle floors. But there''s no time to worry about that.


    "''Gozu'' and ''Mezu,'' protect these people." sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With Gozu and Mezu, who could even overwhelm a Frost Wyvern, these explorers should be safe. I''ll keep moving forward and clearing the path, just to be sure.


    ''Please remain calm. An evacuation order has been issued for Shibuya Dungeon.''


    : Asagao-chan is helping with the evacuation.


    : But isn''t the middle floor dangerous?


    : The problem seems to be in the upper floors.


    : The middle floors might actually be safer.


    ''Right now, an explorer I know is working on resolving the situation, so please stay together and move carefully!''


    : I wonder who this "explorer" is.


    : Have they ever collaborated before?


    : Nope.


    : Probably just a real-life acquaintance.


    Asakawa-san seems to be guiding people well, using the stream to help with the evacuation.


    I gathered more explorers in the upper floors and had Gozu and Mezu protect them as we moved into the middle floors.


    Within a few minutes, we had gathered all the explorers left behind in the upper and middle floors. All that''s left is to meet up with Asakawa-san, escort everyone to the upper floors, and our mission will be complete.


    "Oh, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "...Looks like we''ve got everyone?"


    At the highest level of the middle floors, the 21st floor, I met up with Asakawa-san and confirmed that all the people she had gathered matched the names on the list. Time to head back to the upper floors.


    : Is that Kisaragi-kun again?


    : So, he''s the "acquaintance"?


    : Yay, Kisaragi-kun, are you watching?


    "...Annoying."


    Oops, my true feelings slipped out. This is why netizens are... their jokes can be too much. I don''t dislike the banter itself, but it gets annoying when you''re the one being teased.


    "Uh, should I cut the stream?"


    "Yes, please. We don''t need to track your location anymore..."


    Since we''ve gathered everyone, there''s no need for me to monitor Asakawa-san''s stream anymore. Once we escort these people back to the upper floors, I''ll be the only one left in Shibuya Dungeon.


    Just as I was thinking that, a loud crash echoed, and the stairs leading to the upper floors were smashed to pieces.


    "...What should we do?"


    "Stay back."


    Everyone was stunned by the destruction of the only way back, but I had already sensed the murderous intent coming from the upper floor. It seems the monster in question appeared at the worst possible moment. Destroying the stairs immediately upon arrival... I have to admit, that''s clever.


    Emerging from the dust cloud, glowing red eyes pierced through the gloom. It was a skeletal knight clad in an elaborate, military-like armor, dragging a heavily ornamented greatsword. It looked like an even stronger version of the skeleton Asakawa-san had nearly been killed by in the lower floors.


    "I''ve never seen this monster before."


    "I-Is it going to be okay?"


    Oh, right. Asakawa-san has special eyesight that allows her to see magical energy. She must be shivering at the sight of the malevolent magic radiating from that skeleton. As for me, the presence of such a strong enemy made me smile for the first time in a while.


    "''Hashihime.''"


    I summoned the yokai Hashihime, a figure from Kyoto folklore. I recreated her as a shikigami with my own interpretation: the goddess who protects bridges.


    Hashihime doesn''t have exceptional combat abilities, but she can create a powerful barrier that prevents anyone from crossing a designated point. This is an ability I gave her during her creation.


    "Don''t let anyone pass behind me."


    Simultaneously, the skeleton knight, moving with a speed unimaginable for its heavy armor, charged towards us. The greatsword it had been dragging was now raised, poised to strike, ready to tear through the forested area of the middle floors. But I''m not weak enough to be hit by a mere fast attack.


    "''¨­mukade.''"


    I summoned ¨­mukade, a giant centipede even larger than the skeleton knight, which stood about two meters tall. But the centipede was easily deflected by sheer brute force. Even though ¨­mukade''s charge could crush monsters in the lower floors, it looks like this opponent is strong enough to resist it.


    "Saying that a skeleton has brute strength might sound strange, but that''s some serious power... In that case, I''ll counter with my own bones."


    A direct power struggle might not be in my favor, but I didn''t spend all my time in the corner of the classroom reading books on myths and yokai for nothing. Shikigami techniques are a wonderful form of magic, boasting infinite variations if mastered.


    "''Gashadokuro.''"


    The yokai Gashadokuro, said to be born from the spirits of the dead, appeared as a giant skeleton, just like the one before me. However, my Gashadokuro grows larger the more magic I pour into it. It''s the opposite of when I summoned Raij¨± as a small figure, but this technique is surprisingly tricky.


    "Crush it!"


    Gashadokuro, now over ten meters tall, responded to my command by slamming its massive hand down onto the dungeon floor.

 Chapter 22: EX-Rank Power Unleashed

    The powerful strike from the shikigami "Gashadokuro," summoned by Tsukasa Kisaragi, caused a tremor so intense that the other explorers standing on the same floor could barely stay on their feet.


    Even though this was the 21st floor of the dungeon, Asakawa Nanami, who had been watching the battle from a distance, found herself contemplating in a form of denial whether the tremor might have reached the surface.


    : Isn''t this way too insane?


    : Is this really just one person''s power?


    Asagao''s dungeon stream had not been cut. It wasn''t intentional; she had simply missed the opportunity to stop it. Faced with the overwhelming monster that suddenly descended from the upper floors, everyone except Tsukasa, the EX-rank explorer, was paralyzed by their instincts, which told them that any wrong move could mean death. Their bodies understood this truth even before their minds did.


    "...Tsukasa-kun."


    All Nanami could do was whisper his name like a prayer as she watched the battle between two monsters for the first time. The skeletal knight, a terrifying monster, emerged from the dust cloud at a speed that only emphasized how powerless Nanami truly was.


    "Tch!"


    Realizing in an instant that Gashadokuro''s attack speed wouldn''t be fast enough, Tsukasa dispelled the shikigami, wrapped his body in magical energy, and began to move. The skeleton knight moved at a speed that was impossible for Nanami or the other rescued explorers to track with their eyes.


    Yet Tsukasa deflected the massive sword with the back of his hand and delivered a kick to the exposed torso of the skeleton knight.


    "Gyuuki."


    As the skeleton knight was slammed into the dungeon floor, a monstrous being resembling an ogre with bull horns was summoned above it. Unlike Gozu, who wielded a weapon, Gyuuki grabbed the fleeing skeleton knight''s head and smashed it back into the ground.


    With a sound like grinding bones, the skeleton knight''s body sank into the earth, and Gyuuki followed up with a powerful punch, while Tsukasa shattered its arm with a well-placed kick.


    Nanami could only watch in stunned silence. Everything she had done as an explorer in the middle floors now seemed like child''s play compared to the reality unfolding before her eyes.


    : Infinite firepower, seriously?


    : Isn''t it unfair that he''s also personally strong?


    : Asagao-chan, shouldn''t you just run?


    : This is getting intense.


    : The viewer count is skyrocketing, lol.


    : This is turning into a legendary stream, lol.


    : Apparently, UNKNOWN is the one resolving the Shibuya Dungeon''s crisis.


    A random comment caught Nanami''s eye, making her realize that Tsukasa Kisaragi''s identity as UNKNOWN had been exposed. Panicking, she hurriedly cut the stream and immediately regretted it. Although Tsukasa had said he didn''t mind if people knew, Nanami understood that once unknown information became known, it could cause complications.


    While Nanami worried about this, Tsukasa raised his palm towards the skeleton knight that had started to flee again. With a surge of magical energy that made the air tremble, a beam of light shot from Tsukasa''s hand, piercing the skeleton knight''s torso in the blink of an eye.


    "Ah."


    With a collapsing sound, the skeleton knight fell to its knees, only to be grabbed by Gyuuki and thrown into the air.


    "Kama-itachi."


    As a weasel-like creature appeared on Tsukasa''s shoulder and lashed its tail, the airborne skeleton knight was sliced into pieces. Tsukasa then mercilessly crushed the skull that rolled to his feet. As the skull shattered, the scattered bones of the skeleton knight turned to ash and vanished, leaving behind only a large magic stone at Tsukasa''s feet.


    "Phew."


    Gyuuki, Kama-itachi, and Hashihime disappeared, leaving only Gozu and Mezu standing guard over Nanami and the others. Despite the intense battle and the repeated summoning of shikigami, Tsukasa showed no signs of exhaustion. Watching this, Nanami felt a chill of fear run through her.


    To Nanami, Tsukasa Kisaragi was a lifesaver and a new explorer friend she had made at school. But now, she was forced to recognize that the person standing before her was none other than the EX-rank "UNKNOWN," one of Japan''s highest combat assets.


    "Are you hurt?"


    "...N-No."


    Nanami wasn''t the only one frozen in fear; the other rescued explorers were also paralyzed, their eyes filled with incomprehension as they stared at the overwhelming power they had just witnessed. Tsukasa, the one who should have been the focus of their gazes, showed no signs of being affected by their reactions.


    Just this behavior alone made Nanami understand why Tsukasa kept his distance from others.


    "Th-Thank you, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "...You''re welcome?"


    When Tsukasa heard his name and the words of gratitude, he appeared momentarily puzzled before giving a small, wry smile and tilting his head.


    Nanami could sense the void left in Tsukasa by the loneliness he carried as an explorer and a person. That was why she silently vowed to herself that, no matter what, she would remain his friend. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Well, let''s head back. The upper and top floors are safe now."


    "But the stairs are broken, right?"


    "I''ll figure something out."


    Tsukasa smiled as he took out his phone and, with practiced ease, started a call.


    "Hello, I''ve finished here... No, it wasn''t that fast. By the way, the stairs connecting the 21st and 20th floors have collapsed. How long will it take to repair them?"


    Repairing a collapsed dungeon isn''t something humans can do. The dungeons, whose origins and existence remain a mystery, function as if they were alive, creating monsters and automatically repairing themselves. However, since a total collapse of the stairs is rare, even Tsukasa couldn''t estimate how long the repair might take.


    "You don''t know? Then I''ll just make my own path."


    Watching Tsukasa''s back as he talked on the phone, Nanami steeled herself with a newfound resolve. If she wanted to ensure that Tsukasa Kisaragi was never alone, she needed to become stronger.


    Nanami was a smart person. She understood that wishing for what she couldn''t have was pointless, and she realized that she wouldn''t be able to manipulate shikigami like Tsukasa. So what should she aim for? In her mind, the image of Tsukasa casting an overwhelming spell during the battle with the skeleton knight was burned into her memory.


    That was the level she needed to reach, she thought to herself with a nod.


    "Hey, Tsukasa-kun...?"


    "Hmm?"


    While Nanami was deep in thought, Tsukasa had finished his call and was now placing his hand on the ground, creating a massive magic circle. When he noticed Nanami calling his name, he turned around, revealing the sight of the ground rising and forming a series of rock stairs. Nanami was at a loss for words.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "...The road ahead is long."


    Seeing the difference between herself and an EX-rank yet again, Nanami could only let out a deep sigh.

 Chapter 23: UNKNOWN Revealed

    "Man, that was a lifesaver."


    To be honest, I felt like I got roped into a pretty troublesome task. I didn''t mind running around to save my first-ever friend, but right now, I''m really annoyed by the branch chief''s laid-back attitude. It''s tempting to punch him.


    "Still, a magic anomaly of +9 brings out monsters like that, huh?"


    "You didn''t know?"


    "I didn''t. I knew you guys had to deal with some nasty stuff out there, but I''d never actually seen one of those monsters caught on camera."


    I see. Dungeon streaming could be used to capture footage like that¡­ Not that I''m particularly interested in taking on that role myself.


    "I just updated the Association''s homepage with the news that ''EX-UNKNOWN has resolved the issue.'' But writing that¡­ it does mean the Association is officially recognizing Kisaragi Tsukasa as UNKNOWN."


    "I don''t mind."


    I have no intention of officially registering my personal information, but I''m not particularly concerned if people find out I''m an EX-ranked explorer. Maybe I''ll get some long-lost relatives popping up out of nowhere, but they can be ignored.


    "I see¡­ Well, good work as always. I''ll deposit the payment into your usual account."


    "Yeah¡­ thanks."


    "By the way, your cute girlfriend is waiting for you at the entrance."


    "We''re just friends."


    How rude. Asakawa-san can choose who she wants to date.


    As I was muttering this to myself, grumbling about the chief''s assumption, I spotted Asakawa-san leaning against the wall, staring at her phone with a pale face.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Ts-Tsukasa-kun¡­ because of me, everyone found out!"


    She showed me her phone screen, where "UNKNOWN" was trending at the top of social media. Even my name, Kisaragi Tsukasa, and Asagao''s name were trending, causing quite a stir online.


    "I''ve been bombarded with messages from friends¡­ and now everyone at school knows¡­ What should I do?"


    "It''s fine. The teachers already knew."


    "That''s not the issue here!"


    Even if my classmates find out, it won''t change my daily life. It''s not like being a super-powerful secret EX-rank explorer is going to suddenly make me popular or cure my social awkwardness. Nothing''s going to change.


    At least, that''s what I thought¡­


    "Hey, isn''t that¡­"


    "He''s the EX-rank, right?"


    "So that''s why he''s been missing school so much. Makes sense now." S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yeah, with that much time off, anyone else would have been held back."


    They''re really gossiping about me!


    I mean, it''s natural to talk about someone when they''re suddenly the center of attention.


    "Good morning, Kisaragi-kun!"


    "Morning. You''re here again today, huh?"


    "We''re friends, right?"


    "Ha¡­ haha¡­"


    For some reason, I suddenly gained a bunch of new friends, both guys and girls. I could swear I saw money signs in a few of their eyes, like they were my long-lost relatives coming out of the woodwork.


    Since Asakawa-san hadn''t arrived yet, I was left sitting at the edge of the classroom, feeling like I was on pins and needles with everyone''s eyes on me.


    "I always thought you were kinda cool."


    "I always knew you were a good person."


    "And you''re really good-looking, too."


    Don''t underestimate the eavesdropping abilities of an introvert. I can hear everything. And by the way, I also remember you calling me creepy just yesterday!


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun."


    "Good morning¡­"


    "This is rough, huh?"


    Finally, my savior, Asakawa-san, showed up and spoke to me with a wry smile. With her arrival, at least half of the gazes shifted to her, easing my burden a bit. I started wondering why a mission didn''t come up today, sparing me from school, but then I thought about how kind Asakawa-san is¡­ Is she the embodiment of all the world''s goodness?


    "Good morning, Nanami!"


    "G-Good morning!"


    "Were you okay yesterday? I watched the stream, and I was really worried about you."


    "Thanks. But I''m fine, thanks to someone helping me."


    Asakawa-san was chatting with a friend of hers who had just arrived. Even as they talked, her friend kept glancing at me. Introverts might be overly self-conscious, but they''re especially sensitive to being stared at, so I''m sure it''s not just my imagination.


    "Um¡­"


    "¡­Yes?"


    Just as I was thinking about how annoying this was, she spoke to me directly.


    "I also have an explorer''s license. Do you think I can make it?"


    "¡­Well, I''m not sure."


    That''s¡­ not really something I can answer.


    I don''t really understand what she means by "make it," but from a personal perspective, I think anyone who has a license and puts in the effort can probably reach the lower floors. But I don''t think that''s the kind of answer she''s looking for.


    "Akari, you''re making Tsukasa-kun uncomfortable."


    "Oh, come on, just a little chat. I''m Akari Nonohara. Nice to meet you."


    "Yoroshiku, onegaishimasu."


    "Heh¡­ so formal."


    Asakawa-san, please stop laughing and help me out here.


    "By the way, I''d ignore those people who suddenly say they''ve always thought you were cool."


    "I know that."


    "Good. You''re more interesting than I thought, Kisaragi-kun."


    I''ll keep Nonohara-san''s advice in mind. I''m well aware that anyone who says things like that is likely trouble. Don''t underestimate introverted geeks¡ªwe may be bad at receiving affection, but we''re experts at detecting when it comes with ulterior motives.


    My immediate response earned me a laugh from both Nonohara-san and Asakawa-san.


    "Hey."


    As we were chatting, the atmosphere shifted as Ikemen-kun stormed over, kicking a desk loudly.


    "I told you not to get cocky!"


    He kicked the desk again. It''s not right to treat school property like that. Ikemen-kun, you''re an explorer, you should know better than to break the desk into pieces.


    "Today, I''m gonna kill you."


    Wait, did he just threaten me? Should I call the cops?

 Chapter 24: Showdown

    Why has it come to this? I have no idea.


    "Die."


    Right now, I''m standing in the upper floors of the Shibuya Dungeon, with Ikemen-kun brimming with murderous intent in front of me. Even though he threatened me with death before class, he didn''t do anything afterward, so I thought it was all talk. But when I entered the dungeon as promised with Asakawa-san, he ambushed me.


    Explorers are generally prohibited from using magic outside of dungeons, as it can lead to charges of assault or attempted murder. And while intentionally trying to kill someone in a dungeon is obviously a crime, there are no surveillance cameras here, and if you use flashy magic, it''s hard to distinguish it from monster damage.


    It''s said that some people have actually used dungeons to commit murder. However, since every entry and exit is logged by showing your Explorer card, anyone with a personal grudge can be easily caught. So, I think the stories about dungeon murders are probably just rumors.


    "You should probably just run and report this."


    "Yeah, I''ll call it in right away."


    Despite the chaos, there are police officers who are qualified explorers, and they handle these kinds of cases inside dungeons. They''re part of a police force made up of people who have explorer licenses and a certain level of skill, and they respond to reports of incidents within the dungeon.


    "Uh¡­ what was the number to report a dungeon incident again?"


    "Wasn''t it 220 or something?"


    "I''ll kill you!"


    Whoa, just as I was about to make the call, he suddenly rushed at me with a punch.


    I hadn''t noticed, but there were two girls and two boys, part of Ikemen-kun''s entourage, standing around. If they get caught doing this, they could get expelled or even arrested. Why would they stick by him in such a situation? S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I pushed Asakawa-san back and caught Ikemen-kun''s fist, twisting his arm behind him.


    "Gah!?"


    "Calm down, Kuri¡­hara-kun."


    "I''ll kill you."


    I got your name right this time!


    He started flailing his other arm, so I grabbed that one too and pinned him to the ground of the dungeon. His face was bright red with anger.


    "Die!"


    Lightning crackled from Ikemen-kun''s hand, so I let go and backed away. A punch could still be dismissed as fooling around, but using magic crosses the line into a serious incident. I''ll respond accordingly.


    He started laughing and activating his magic, causing his body to crackle with electricity. Is he powering up his physical abilities or something?


    "If it weren''t for you, I would''ve been the top at school!"


    "Being the best explorer doesn''t make you the best at school."


    "Shut up!"


    Scary. His movements are a bit faster now, but to me, who was born with enhanced reflexes due to my magic power, he still looks slow. I pride myself on being able to track supersonic speeds with my eyes. And compared to my grandma, who''s much faster, this is nothing.


    I dodged his reckless punch and carefully struck him in the side to avoid breaking any bones. He went flying into a wall, but I''m pretty sure he''s just bruised, nothing serious.


    "Why¡­ why can''t I¡­"


    "What?"


    "You¡­ you''re just a tool-using weakling¡­"


    Where''s he getting that from? But at least he''s realized the difference in our abilities after just one hit. That''s the mark of someone who''s reached C-rank¡ªthey understand when they''re outmatched.


    By the way, while Shikigami magic is powerful and versatile, I''m actually better at fighting with my own body. More specifically, I''m good at fighting alongside the Shikigami I summon. I don''t really enjoy standing back and watching the battle from afar.


    "What are you doing, Shunsuke?"


    "¡­Are you recording this?"


    "N-no, this is just¡­"


    One of Ikemen-kun''s male entourage members was pointing his phone at us, and when I asked, he stammered. Judging by his reaction¡­ probably a live stream?


    If it is a live stream, that''s a bit of a hassle¡­ I don''t want any unnecessary trouble since I''m an EX-rank explorer. I don''t want to be seen as someone who bullies weaker people.


    "Eep!"


    When I shifted my gaze from Ikemen-kun to his friend, the guy panicked and backed away. I wasn''t even glaring that hard.


    "S-screw this¡­ I''m not done with you¡­ I''ll never accept this!"


    "Do you understand the difference between us now?"


    He seems to grasp the difference, yet he''s still trying to fight. If this goes on, I''m really going to end up breaking a few bones.


    "Hey, Tsukasa-kun."


    "What is it?"


    "Can''t you restrain him somehow?"


    Restrain¡­ does she mean with magic or a Shikigami?


    "I''m good at killing, but I''m really bad at capturing people alive. I''m not skilled with that kind of delicate work."


    "¡­I''ll do it then."


    "I''m sorry."


    I''m really sorry. Because I''ve had so little interaction with people, I''m not used to this kind of thing. I''ve never needed to capture a monster alive, and it''s easier to just fight alongside my Shikigami. I''ve never learned how to use those kinds of stalling spells. I probably could if I studied from scratch, though.


    "Aaaaaargh!"


    The crackling from Ikemen-kun''s body intensified as he charged at me again, even faster than before. But I can still easily keep up by enhancing my physical abilities with magic.


    I tripped him, grabbed his neck, and flung him into the dungeon wall. He made a sound like a crushed frog and slumped against the wall.


    "¡­My hand feels tingly."


    "Well, you did grab lightning with your bare hands."


    "My clothes are insulated, so it''s fine."


    When I touched his neck, I realized Ikemen-kun''s crackling was his magic power converted into electricity. He''s probably using it to forcibly enhance his physical abilities, which explains the speed boost.


    My outfit isn''t as heavy as the armor most explorers wear, but it''s made from materials obtained from deep-dungeon monsters, so it''s insulated and fire-resistant. I''m fine, but producing that much electricity must be taxing on Ikemen-kun.


    "So, how long are you planning to keep filming?"


    "Eek!"


    When I glared at him, he tried to run, so I summoned Hashihime to block the passage. He immediately collapsed on the spot. Now, I guess we just wait for the police to arrive.

 Chapter 25: Stream Training

    "Sorry for dragging you into this."


    "It''s okay... It''s partly my fault too."


    After dealing with the police and their questioning, we were let go fairly quickly thanks to the live stream that had captured the whole incident. Originally, I had planned to train Asakawa-san today, but since it was already getting late, we decided to postpone it for another day.


    Even though Asakawa-san might have been the initial reason Kurihara-kun started picking on me, I think the real cause was my repeated refusal to meet him afterward. Skipping those meetings, even if I had valid reasons like being called away by Asakawa-san or dealing with the dungeon emergency, wasn''t something I should just brush off.


    "So, um... Is everything okay with the stream?"


    "Huh? Oh... Well, it''s already out there, so I guess it doesn''t really matter anymore."


    After appearing in a few of Asakawa-san''s streams and the recent one filmed by Kurihara-kun''s group, my face, name, and school uniform are probably all public now, but I don''t really see that as a problem. I''m probably one of the few famous explorers who''s managed to keep their identity a secret for this long.


    "But now that everything''s out in the open, I guess there''s an upside, I can stream without worrying about hiding anything."


    "That''s a positive way to look at it."


    "If I don''t stay positive, I''d never stop feeling down."


    Dwelling on the negatives won''t solve anything, and I decided on the day I became an explorer to stop wallowing in such thoughts. For better or worse, becoming an explorer changed me from just a gloomy loner.


    "So, let''s practice your streaming tomorrow and continue my training!"


    "...If no urgent work comes up, that is."


    "I know, I know!"


    I sighed, thinking how I''ve gotten involved in so many things lately. But honestly, since meeting Asakawa-san and becoming friends, I''ve found exploring dungeons to be a lot more fun, even with all the extra trouble.


    As promised, the day after the incident, we started with some streaming practice and Asakawa-san''s training. While she called it after school, I''d been on a mission since morning, heading to Kofu Dungeon and finishing up before coming back to Shibuya Dungeon. So, it wasn''t really "after school" for me.


    We''re currently in the upper floors, setting up the camera for the streaming practice.


    "You bought a pretty expensive one."


    "An EX-rank I know recommended it to me. He said it''s great for recording."


    "Huh... Since there are only four EX-rankers, including you, it''s a three-choice quiz to figure out who that was."


    True. I guess it''s her way of saying there''s no point in dodging the truth.


    As expected from a streamer, she could tell just by looking that the camera was expensive. I, on the other hand, couldn''t tell the difference, so I just asked the store clerk for a camera suitable for dungeon use, regardless of the price. The clerk''s surprised face when I said that and then paid with a card was amusing.


    "Well, anyway... Your combat style involves supporting from the rear with Shikigami, right?"


    "In the lower floors, I tend to fight more directly. Sometimes it''s faster to act than to think."


    "I see... Then, instead of tracking you closely, it might be better to capture you from a bit of a distance."


    I''m not sure how good the tracking is, but even if it could keep up with me moving at supersonic speeds, the footage would likely be a blur.


    "Alright, that should do it. Now, let''s set it up online... and there, it''s live now."


    "People can watch it already?" S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Nope, it''s still set to private, so only you and I can see it."


    Oh, I see... I didn''t know there was such an option.


    As a complete beginner, I barely understand half of what Asakawa-san is explaining, but I need to make sure I remember everything.


    "Okay, just fight as you normally would!"


    "Alright. ''Kasha.''"


    Since I''d normally obliterate the upper-floor monsters by summoning a Shikigami, I''ll just handle this myself. I summon Kasha and draw the sword from the cart. I didn''t think I''d need it today, so I had stored it away.


    "It''s Goblins."


    Just as Asakawa-san said, there are about ten Goblins up ahead. Unlike the black-skinned, machete-wielding Goblins in the top floors, these have red, dark skin and carry various weapons like swords and spears. They''re considered a higher-ranking species of Goblin. While their official name is just "Red Goblin," explorers often refer to them as Hobgoblins, like in video games.


    "Screech!"


    "Well then..."


    The Hobgoblin at the front noticed us, but at this distance, it''s well within my reach. Before they can even prepare for battle, I take down three with a single swing, and as I continue the motion, I slice the remaining seven in half.


    "How''s that?"


    "...Maybe I should have pulled back a bit more for a wider shot?"


    Asakawa-san raised her head from her phone, where she was checking the camera settings, and gave me a wry smile. If pulling back is better, it means the footage didn''t come out great. I''ll have to review my own recording later.


    "Even if they''re Hobgoblins, you took them down in a second..."


    "Once you get used to it, it''s easy. Their movements are sluggish... Weren''t you using a spear, Asakawa-san?"


    If she''s using a spear, it should be even easier for her to handle Hobgoblins. Plus, with her ability to cast ten spells simultaneously, she could probably wipe them out in an instant.


    "Now that we''ve done the fine-tuning, let''s move to the mid-level floors."


    "O-okay... Watching you earlier, I''m starting to get nervous about this training."


    "Huh? Don''t worry... Everyone goes through it."


    "That''s not reassuring at all!"


    Haha, well, if you want to reach the lower floors, you need the right mindset and preparation. I''ve reviewed your past streams during my downtime, so I''m aware of your critical weaknesses, Asakawa-san, and I''ve crafted a solid training plan. We might be the same age, but in this case, you''ll be my disciple.


    "First, I want to assess what you can currently handle, so let''s start with a Wyvern."


    "Wait, what?"


    "Let''s see how you do in a one-on-one fight against a Wyvern."


    Since Asakawa-san can already take down a Frost Wyvern, she should be able to handle a Wyvern without too much trouble, even if it''s considered the strongest in the mid-level floors.


    Asakawa-san froze up, but I''m sure she''s just excited.

 Chapter 26: The Price of Power

    "Yeah, I guess I''m lacking in firepower."


    "That''s... true, isn''t it?"


    Asakawa-san had recently been promoted to C-rank, meaning the association deemed her strong enough to face off against the mid-layer''s strongest creature, the Wyvern, one-on-one. I had her fight one to test her abilities, and while she did manage to defeat it on her own, there were a few close calls. She''s definitely strong enough to be a C-rank, but she could use more firepower.


    "I could tell from watching your streams that while you can cast a lot of spells, each one doesn''t pack much of a punch."


    "I''ve been hearing that ever since I became an explorer."


    I figured as much. Asakawa-san has an incredible talent for casting multiple spells simultaneously, something I could never do. But the power of each spell is lacking. When your spells are weak, you have to rely on quantity over quality, which drains your magic energy quickly and makes it hard to sustain a long battle. And in dungeon exploration, being unable to endure a long fight can be fatal.


    "First, we need to increase your overall magic capacity."


    "Can you really increase that?"


    "You can."


    It''s commonly believed that you can''t increase your magic capacity much, but the truth is, it''s possible to grow it through training. Even people who are deemed unsuitable for dungeon diving could probably become capable with enough effort.


    "That kind of training sounds pretty tough, right?"


    "It is, but maybe you could stream it while you do it?"


    "Streaming magic training would be so boring, though."


    "Huh?"


    Magic training is boring?


    "Wait a minute. Are you talking about that magic training where you constantly release magic while exercising?"


    "Yeah, that''s what I meant."


    "That doesn''t help much."


    "What!?"


    I''ve seen that method recommended online, but it barely increases your magic capacity. I doubt anyone''s felt a noticeable difference from it. Magic isn''t like muscles¡ªyou can''t just build it up with a few workouts.


    "So... you know a better way?"


    "Yes, and I used to do it quite regularly."


    "Teach me!"


    "Of course."


    That''s why we''re here in the dungeon together, after all.


    "The method is simple. You have to survive life-or-death battles."


    "...What?"


    "Keep fighting opponents stronger than you, over and over."


    "Are you a battle maniac?"


    That''s a bit harsh. But it''s true that the top explorers all became strong this way. The lower and deeper floors of dungeons are like hell, where surviving means constantly brushing with death, and it''s through these experiences that they grow stronger.


    I believe the massive gap between the top-tier explorers and everyone else isn''t just about talent but also the number of times they''ve faced death. The strong push deeper into the dungeons, seeking greater challenges, while the weaker ones stay at safer levels, afraid of dying.


    "If you want to break through the limits of being human and make it to the lower floors, you''ll need to push yourself."


    "...I''m starting to get a better sense of just what kind of place I''m aiming for." S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don''t worry. I''ll be there with you!"


    Leveling up faster by fighting stronger opponents¡ªjust like in games. Game logic wins again.


    "So, I''ll be streaming while you''re training!"


    Given Asakawa-san''s current level of skill, the monsters from the lower floors should be a good fit for her training. I''ll keep a Thunder Beast on standby, ready to intervene if things get too dangerous. Asakawa-san''s smile looks a bit strained, but I''ll just ignore that for now.


    As I reviewed the archive of yesterday''s private stream at school, a few girls approached my desk. Naturally, I didn''t recognize them at all. I wondered what they wanted.


    "Are you okay after what happened the other day?"


    "The other day... Oh, you mean with Kurihara-kun?"


    "Yeah, that''s right. That stream''s been spreading like crazy online."


    "Really?"


    This is the first I''ve heard of it. I figured it had been streamed, but I assumed it was just shared within the class group or something. I didn''t expect it to go viral online. Though, now that I think about it, someone from the group probably would''ve uploaded it anyway.


    "But still, you''re really strong, aren''t you?"


    "Kisaragi-kun, you were so cool!"


    "Uh... thanks?"


    Why the sudden change? People who probably didn''t even know my name until now are suddenly striking up a conversation with me. It''s a bit overwhelming.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Good morning, Asakawa-san."


    "Oh, good morning, Nanami!"


    Asakawa-san greeted me cheerfully as she walked in, followed closely by Nonohara-san, who seemed to have rushed over. Asakawa-san noticed the group of girls around me and tilted her head in confusion. Honestly, I feel just as confused.


    "You were almost in serious trouble with Kurihara-kun, weren''t you?"


    "I never really liked him anyway."


    Oh, come on. These same people were probably gushing over how handsome Kurihara-kun was not too long ago.


    Speaking of Kurihara-kun, it seems he hasn''t shown up to school since yesterday. I was in Kofu yesterday, so I had no idea he was absent, but it''s probably because of what happened the other day.


    "Are you in the class group chat?"


    "No, I''m not."


    "Let me add you! We should exchange contacts."


    "Oh, okay."


    They''re coming on strong. Is this what Grandma meant when she said being an explorer would make you popular? I''ve always thought she was just teasing me, but maybe she was right all along... Sorry for doubting you, Grandma.


    After exchanging contacts with one girl, others quickly followed, and soon I had a bunch of new contacts, both guys and girls. I never imagined I''d suddenly have so many classmates in my contacts, especially since until now, I only had people related to dungeon work.


    "Oh, is that yesterday''s footage?"


    "Yeah. Looking at it now, I''m glad I bought a good camera."


    Asakawa-san leaned in close to peek at my phone, and I felt my heart skip a beat. The way she tucked her shiny black hair behind her ear made her look so mature.


    "Haha... I look good in this footage, don''t I?"


    "Y-Yeah, you do."


    Well, since half the reason we went into the dungeon yesterday was for her training, it''s good that the footage turned out well.


    "Now that you''ve got this set up, we can collaborate on streams anytime, both with my stream and your own."


    "P-Please go easy on me."


    For some reason, it felt like her smile didn''t reach her eyes... I wonder why.

 Chapter 27: Thread 3: The Rise of Kisaragi

    502: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s wild how we''ve already reached thread 5 when there was nothing a few days ago, lol.


    503: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably the hottest explorer right now.


    Unknown poster


    Wouldn''t know, though.


    504: Anonymous Explorer


    Turns out, he''s an actual monster.


    505: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it okay to consider him human?


    506: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s a high schooler, you know.


    507: Anonymous Explorer sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Saw some so-called influencer Rank A going off on social media about him.


    508: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just his usual thing.


    509: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, typical meltdown.


    510: Anonymous Explorer


    Losing it whenever someone stronger appears is the cringiest thing ever.


    511: Anonymous Explorer


    Who was the idiot that said he''s only strong because of his Shikigami?


    That was a lie.


    512: Anonymous Explorer


    The Shikigami are strong because he''s a monster, right?


    513: Anonymous Explorer


    With that kind of strength and infinite Shikigami, he''s basically a cheat.


    514: Anonymous Explorer


    Nerf him.


    515: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa makes it four EX explorers now.


    516: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede: Monster


    Aizawa Ryosuke: Monster


    Kamishiro Rion: Monster


    Kisaragi Tsukasa: Monster ¡ûNEW?


    517: Anonymous Explorer


    EX = Monster, as usual.


    518: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re EX because they''re monsters.


    519: Anonymous Explorer


    EX stands for "exceptional," so they''re not even human.


    520: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it insane that he''s still in high school?


    521: Anonymous Explorer


    It''d be insane even if he weren''t in high school.


    522: Anonymous Explorer


    But how come nobody knew about him until now?


    523: Anonymous Explorer


    Aren''t there any explorers here?


    524: Anonymous Explorer


    I go to the Naha Dungeon, so Tokyo''s irrelevant to me.


    525: Anonymous Explorer


    Kobe Dungeon regular here; never heard of him.


    526: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾524


    So there are explorers here, huh?


    527: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m a mid-layer explorer in the Shibuya Dungeon, but I''ve never heard of him.


    528: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s an EX, so he''s probably always in the lower or deep layers. You''d hardly ever run into him.


    529: Anonymous Explorer


    True.


    530: Anonymous Explorer


    When the website says, "UNKNOWN has resolved the issue," they''re talking about him, right?


    Then he''s probably zipping all over the Kanto region pretty often.


    531: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though he''s in high school, he''s a corporate slave.


    532: Anonymous Explorer


    What a depressing world.


    533: Anonymous Explorer


    Especially here, where it''s full of NEETs.


    534: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾533


    There are some explorers here too...


    535: Anonymous Explorer


    If you can''t reach the mid-layers, you''re just a part-timer.


    536: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the deep layer like, I wonder?


    537: Anonymous Explorer


    Since S-rankers and A-rankers don''t stream, it''s a total mystery.


    538: Anonymous Explorer


    They don''t need to stream, but they could at least record and post the footage.


    539: Anonymous Explorer


    We barely know anything about the lower layers either.


    540: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s someone overseas who streams lower layers, though.


    541: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾538


    Since no one else is doing it, they probably feel awkward being the first.


    542: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe their cameras just get destroyed.


    543: Anonymous Explorer


    There are some photos from the deep layers online, though.


    544: Anonymous Explorer


    But it''s just photos.


    545: Anonymous Explorer


    And those are from the California Dungeon, right?


    546: Anonymous Explorer


    The one near San Francisco, the sea dungeon.


    547: Anonymous Explorer


    They call it the California Dungeon, but isn''t it basically in Oakland?


    548: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care about America.


    549: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the Shibuya Dungeon dangerous on a global scale?


    550: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, it''s easy up to the mid-layers.


    551: Anonymous Explorer


    But the difficulty spikes once you hit the lower layers. I nearly died, so I''m never going back.


    552: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾551


    So you''re at least Rank C, huh?


    553: Anonymous Explorer


    Turns out Asagao-chan is his classmate, lol.


    554: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, yeah.


    555: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao stans are losing it.


    556: Anonymous Explorer


    Only the die-hard fans are freaking out.


    557: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re on a first-name basis now!


    558: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL


    559: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾557


    Stop it, lol.


    560: Anonymous Explorer


    They call him top-tier, and now I finally understand why.


    561: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s hilarious how he''s moving too fast to be seen, even with recorded footage.


    562: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone bring a hyper-slow-motion camera.


    563: Anonymous Explorer


    So that''s what it''s like at the top of the explorer world... I''ll just stick to grinding in the upper layers.


    564: Anonymous Explorer


    Go deeper.


    565: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m going to get an explorer''s license.


    Then I''ll become EX.


    566: Anonymous Explorer


    You should probably rethink that.


    567: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you really think you could ever reach that level?


    568: Anonymous Explorer


    Good luck being the fifth EX.


    569: Anonymous Explorer


    All those fake UNKNOWN accounts were a joke.


    570: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course they were.


    571: Anonymous Explorer


    No one believed them to begin with.


    572: Anonymous Explorer


    Has anyone found his social media account yet?


    573: Anonymous Explorer


    Not yet.


    574: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe he doesn''t have one.


    575: Anonymous Explorer


    He didn''t seem too tech-savvy.


    576: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ll know when he registers his details.


    577: Anonymous Explorer


    There are already tons of fake accounts, though.


    578: Anonymous Explorer


    The moment his name got out, everyone updated their profiles to say "I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa" or "I''m a high schooler," lol.


    579: Anonymous Explorer


    What about checking the follow list of the other EX accounts?


    580: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede doesn''t even do social media. She''s said so.


    581: Anonymous Explorer


    Aizawa Ryosuke has one, but...


    It''s just work announcements for the explorer union.


    582: Anonymous Explorer


    A corporate slave on social media, lol.


    583: Anonymous Explorer


    EX salaryman hits different.


    584: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion is pretty active online.


    She posted some pics from a Major League game the other day.


    585: Anonymous Explorer


    What is she doing, lol?


    586: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾584


    Is she just free to do whatever?


    587: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾584


    Forget that, she should be streaming Shibuya Dungeon''s deep layer.


    588: Anonymous Explorer


    That was some deep layer somewhere, right?


    589: Anonymous Explorer


    Nobody''s been able to pinpoint which dungeon''s deep layer it was.


    590: Anonymous Explorer


    So where was it, really?


    591: Anonymous Explorer


    Best guess is somewhere in Australia.


    592: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s too broad.


    593: Anonymous Explorer


    Yep, she''s definitely doing whatever she wants.


    594: Anonymous Explorer


    Not a single mention of anyone foolish enough to challenge UNKNOWN.


    595: Anonymous Explorer


    That was all talked out yesterday.


    596: Anonymous Explorer


    A lot of explorers with big egos out there.


    597: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, there are some who think they''re special just because they''re explorers.


    598: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾596


    He''s in high school, right?


    I''d have a big head too.


    599: Anonymous Explorer


    I get it.


    600: Anonymous Explorer


    If I were a high schooler who could use magic and fight in dungeons, I''d be cocky too.


    601: Anonymous Explorer


    The only mistake was picking a fight with the wrong person.


    602: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s for sure.


    603: Anonymous Explorer


    If you challenge an EX, that''s how it ends.


    604: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s lucky he didn''t get seriously hurt.


    605: Anonymous Explorer


    He''d be dead if that happened.


    606: Anonymous Explorer


    Think I found his account.


    607: Anonymous Explorer


    Didn''t even use Shikigami, lol.


    608: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾606


    Is this for real?


    609: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾606


    Says he plans to stream; is that legit?


    610: Anonymous Explorer


    Only following official game accounts and the union, lol.


    611: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s us.


    612: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s he going to stream?


    613: Anonymous Explorer


    Stream the deep layer exploration!


    614: Anonymous Explorer


    If he actually does it, it''s going to be huge.


    615: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no one else streaming deep layer content except for Kamishiro Rion.


    616: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it fair to call that silent stream of hers a deep layer walkthrough?


    617: Anonymous Explorer


    And she only did it once.


    618: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s a bit of a wildcard.


    619: Anonymous Explorer


    Whatever, I''m hyped. I already followed.


    620: Anonymous Explorer


    He updated his SNS, saying he''ll be helping Asagao-chan for a while, so his streams will just be her training sessions.


    621: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s actually super valuable in its own way.


    622: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao should stream it too.


    623: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s basically a collab.


    624: Anonymous Explorer


    Starting out with zero followers and locking in a collab is hilarious.


    625: Anonymous Explorer


    So Asagao-chan is finally doing an offline collab with a guy? For real?


    626: Anonymous Explorer


    Not fair. I want Kisaragi-kun to train me too.


    627: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, that''s what you''re focused on?


    628: Anonymous Explorer


    The die-hard fans are going to flip.


    629: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾627


    Look, no matter how cute she is, if it''s between a girl streamer and an EX, who are you going to choose?


    630: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾629


    EX, obviously.


    631: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾629


    Japan''s full of beautiful women, but there are only four EXs.


    632: Anonymous Explorer


    So the ultimate dream is to get trained by a beautiful EX like Kamishiro Rion?


    633: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s never going to happen.


    634: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun isn''t going to do it either.


    635: Anonymous Explorer


    The person closest to making it happen is that one corporate slave.


    636: Anonymous Explorer


    If you make it to Rank B, the salaryman will let you join his party.


    It''s part of his junior mentoring or something.


    637: Anonymous Explorer


    Corporate slave is really living up to his name.


    638: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, I wish someone would just do a crazy stream.


    Everything''s so stale these days.


    639: Anonymous Explorer


    One Japanese explorer streaming anything from below the lower layers would be enough to dominate.


    640: Anonymous Explorer


    Hoping for big things from Kisaragi-kun.


    641: Anonymous Explorer


    With how valuable the magic stones from the lower layers are, they probably don''t need the money from streaming.


    642: Anonymous Explorer


    So Kisaragi-kun''s doing this as a hobby?


    643: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably. EXs must be rolling in cash.


    644: Anonymous Explorer


    High schooler and rich? He must be drowning in girls.


    I''m officially a hater now.


    645: Anonymous Explorer


    That was fast.


    646: Anonymous Explorer


    No one''s calling him UNKNOWN anymore; everyone''s calling him Kisaragi-kun, lol.


    647: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, UNKNOWN sounds kind of cringey now.


    648: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop it. Maybe Kisaragi-kun thought it was cool.


    649: Anonymous Explorer


    He is a high schooler, after all.

 Chapter 28: Training for the Lower Floors

    "Maybe it''s time to try streaming for real?"


    As I sat down after a fight with a lower-level monster, adjusting the camera, Asakawa-san suggested this. Honestly, even if she said that, the only thing I could stream would be her training sessions, and I don''t have much to talk about or do on a stream.


    "Wouldn''t it be better if you streamed, Asakawa-san? Fighting lower-level monsters should get you plenty of views."


    "...It feels weird to stream with you helping me out so much."


    "Does that bother you?"


    "A little bit," she said with a smile, cradling her spear with care. Even though she asked me for help with her streaming, it seems like she doesn''t want to rely on me too much.


    So far, I haven''t actually stepped in to assist her directly. I''ve only been giving her tips about monsters and strategies for each floor.


    She''s steadily getting stronger. Although the training to increase her magical power doesn''t show rapid results, it''s probably the most effective method she''s ever tried. After all, she''s been working hard without complaining.


    "Another one''s coming," I pointed out.


    "...I''ve been fighting so many lower-level monsters lately that my sense of money is starting to get warped."


    "Don''t worry, it won''t get that warped," I said with a chuckle. The truth is, no matter how much you earn, if you''re just average, money will always feel the same.


    From the depths of the tunnel, a hulking ogre with reddish-brown skin lumbered into view. The monster, simply named "Ogre," was all about high durability and strong attacks. It moved slowly, but its attacks were deadly enough to put your life at risk with one hit. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "This one might be a tough match for you, Asakawa-san."


    "I''ll overcome it!" she said with determination.


    She''s got guts... As expected of someone who almost died in a dungeon one day, only to return the next. That kind of mental fortitude is something ordinary people can''t even fathom, but I guess it''s par for the course for those who venture deep into dungeons. I used to be like that too, fighting my way into the deep layers, on the brink of death more times than I could count.


    I checked that the stream was running and focused on recording Asakawa-san''s battle with the ogre. Since it''s a high-durability monster she struggles with, this footage could be useful later for reviewing and improving her tactics.


    "Is this even working?" she asked as her magic attack seemed to bounce off the ogre''s thick skin.


    "Well, in games, an attack that doesn''t cause visible damage isn''t effective. You can think of it that way in real life too."


    "Then it''s not working!"


    "UGHHHHHH!"


    Reacting to the ogre''s roar and the sound of its club slamming down, several other monsters began converging on us. I was planning to stay out of it unless things got dangerous, but it would be better if Asakawa-san could focus solely on the ogre. I guess I''ll take care of the other monsters.


    "''Gyuuki''."


    I summoned Gyuuki, which immediately bolted in the opposite direction, away from where Asakawa-san was fighting the ogre. One of the weaknesses of Shikigami is that they have some autonomy in how they move, but they have limitations. Specifically, if they get too far¡ªlike an entire dungeon floor away¡ªthey''ll automatically disappear.


    As long as I stay on this floor, Gyuuki should be fine handling the other monsters.


    Watching Asakawa-san''s fight, I could see how much effort she''s put into her training. Her ability to simultaneously cast multiple spells is a talent, but she''s also closely observing the ogre''s movements, predicting its actions based on subtle cues, and avoiding fatal hits. It looks easy, but you need to have survived numerous close calls to develop that kind of skill.


    "Take this!" she cried out, unleashing a fire spell aimed at the ogre''s exposed eye.


    The ogre roared in pain, collapsing as Asakawa-san drove her spear into its neck, putting her full weight behind it. At that point, the fight was essentially over. However, she didn''t stop there. She pulled out her spear and repeatedly shot fire bullets into the wound. Ruthless, but that''s what you need to do. You can''t afford to relax until the monster disappears; that''s basic dungeon survival.


    "Phew... I did it!"


    "Good job. With that, I think you can handle the monsters in this area."


    "...I thought I''d almost die a lot more."


    "If you want that..."


    "No thanks."


    Well, if there''s no rush, this pace is fine. Constantly fighting opponents just a little stronger than you is the best way to grow.


    Gyuuki returned with several magic stones clutched in its hands, having dealt with the other monsters. Among them was one that looked like the ogre''s, but I decided not to mention it to Asakawa-san.


    "Let''s head back for today."


    "What? I can keep going!"


    "You''re running low on magic, aren''t you?"


    Despite the initial protest, she fell silent, which confirmed my suspicion. Since she''s already fought several monsters besides the ogre, I figured she was close to her limit.


    "Listen, it''s important to get close to the edge and fight with your magic nearly depleted to push your limits."


    "Then let''s keep going!"


    "But if you die, it''s all over."


    Sure, I''m here to make sure Asakawa-san doesn''t die in the lower layers, but that''s to handle unexpected situations. I can''t help if she knowingly walks into a fight she can''t win.


    "There''s no need to rush. As an explorer, you''ve still got a long way ahead of you."


    In reality, she''s only been an explorer for two years, and she''s already a C-rank, which is extraordinary. But I doubt my words will get through to her. Being the same age as me, yet seeing me as an EX, probably makes her feel more pressured. There aren''t many high schoolers who are as powerful as her. In fact, being C-rank at her age is already incredible, but I know she''s comparing herself to me.


    I wish I could reassure her more if only I were at her level so that we could have had friendly competition.

 Chapter 29: Takayama Dungeon Mystery

    "Today, I''m going to hunt monsters in the mid-tier like a big boy!"


    : Finally learned your lesson?


    : How long did that take? A few days?


    : Glad you backed off before getting yourself killed.


    : I was hoping to see some lower-tier action, though.


    : If even Asagao-chan can''t do it, nobody can.


    Due to a manpower shortage today, I ended up getting dispatched all the way to Gifu. Specifically, I was headed to Hida, Takayama City, known for its delicious beef. My mission was to explore the "Takayama Dungeon," located in the mountains. Normally, since I''m a high school student, I''m assigned to handle areas in the Kanto region, but today''s situation was dire enough to pull me in.


    Takayama City is crucial for Japan''s food self-sufficiency. It used to be just a tourist spot, but now it''s a booming place with a large population. The infrastructure is as developed as any regional hub, and it''s really easy to get here from Tokyo or Aichi Prefecture.


    The reason Takayama City has become so important in terms of food production lies in the Takayama Dungeon. It''s the only dungeon in Japan that has been completely cleared to the bottom.


    : I''ve been getting better at fighting lower-tier monsters lately... but I still don''t have the courage to stream it live.


    : Aww...


    : Show us!


    : You''d freak out if you saw it.


    : Streaming with a guy? Expect backlash.


    : Isn''t it already a bit of a scandal?


    : She''s not even selling herself as an idol...


    Currently, I''m watching Asakawa-san''s stream from the backseat of a car as I travel to Takayama Dungeon. It''s a holiday, so she''s been diving since this morning. She''s probably feeling the pressure to get stronger. Her fans must be pleased with the increased streaming frequency, though.


    "We''ve arrived."


    "Already?"


    "Yes, it didn''t take long."


    The driver, an agent from the Explorers Association, had taken me to the dungeon surprisingly quickly. I had expected traffic, but it seems we managed to avoid any delays.


    As I got out of the car, I saw the massive structure halfway up the mountain¡ªthe entrance to Takayama Dungeon. Around the dungeon entrance were numerous shops trying to attract tourists coming to explore the dungeon.


    "How about we grab some lunch here on the way back?"


    "Are we going to finish that quickly?" sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Don''t worry, we will."


    The agent looked at me in astonishment. Being from a regional office, he might not be familiar with my capabilities, unlike those at the Tokyo headquarters. He probably doesn''t know how fast I can get things done. If traffic stays light, I''ll be back in Tokyo before evening.


    I showed my Explorer ID at the entrance of the Takayama Dungeon, and the receptionist seemed surprised. But I made it inside without any issues.


    The problem that arose in Takayama Dungeon today is one that occurs irregularly but inevitably. It''s at the 57th floor, the lowest level of the dungeon. Takayama Dungeon is relatively small compared to others like Shibuya Dungeon, with only 57 floors. Globally, it''s considered a small dungeon.


    As I descended, I couldn''t help but notice that I''ve become somewhat of a known figure.


    : Isn''t that...?


    : That''s UNKNOWN, right?


    : Seriously? Something''s going on at Takayama Dungeon?


    I''m definitely more recognizable now.


    But I needed to focus on resolving the issue in the Takayama Dungeon.


    I summoned Kirin and rode it through the dungeon. There''s no point wasting time on minor monsters. It''s a holiday, so the dungeon is crowded, which means the number of monsters in the upper floors should be relatively low.


    Takayama Dungeon is always busy, but the crowd differs on weekdays and weekends. During the week, it''s mostly people who are here for work. That''s because everything harvested from the dungeon is food-related.


    This dungeon is categorized as a "Food Dungeon," where common ingredients as well as rare ones that can only be found in dungeons are harvested. In Japan, Osaka Dungeon, Takayama Dungeon, and Sapporo Dungeon fall into this category.


    Of course, these dungeons alone aren''t enough to sustain the food supply, so regular agriculture still exists. Dungeon-grown food can be so expensive that it becomes unaffordable for most people, sold at market prices.


    Takayama Dungeon is considered safe among food dungeons and is often recommended for beginners. The fact that it''s fully cleared adds a level of comfort. Speaking of which, the legend who cleared this dungeon is none other than Kaede Jinguuji, the first-ever EX-ranked explorer. Thanks to her achievement, she remains one of the most recognized explorers in Japan, even overseas.


    "Made it... good job, Kirin."


    Even with Kirin taking the shortest route, it still took some time to get from the first to the 57th floor. It didn''t take an hour, but moving through the dungeon nonstop can get a bit tedious. At least I had Asakawa-san''s stream to keep me entertained.


    The 57th floor, the lowest level of Takayama Dungeon, is vastly different from the maze-like upper floors. It''s a huge, open space with a strange, mechanical-looking white floor. The circular layout of the area feels somewhat eerie. Monsters rarely appear here, and even those on the 56th floor seem hesitant to descend.


    As for why I''m here in this desolate area... The 57th floor is notorious for occasionally spawning a powerful monster.


    "It''s here."


    The ground rumbled as a massive crab-like creature burst through the floor. Its enormous size and tough exterior made it a formidable opponent. The 57th floor''s boss monster, this giant crab, is a recurring problem. Even though it''s been defeated multiple times, it always returns.


    With a muddy, dull color and a look reminiscent of a snow crab, this creature lacks the bright red shell you''d expect. The earthy tones give it an unsettling appearance.


    "Well, time to take you down."


    According to the Association, this monster must be eliminated whenever it appears. The reason? Simply put, we don''t fully understand the dungeon''s mechanics, and leaving it unchecked could lead to unforeseen consequences.


    But here''s the thing¡ªthis crab is incredibly delicious. As a "Food Dungeon" boss monster, it''s a delicacy. I''ve been looking forward to this mission just for the chance to taste it. The market price for this crab is astronomical, but I get to enjoy it as part of the job.


    You can''t underestimate a teenage boy''s appetite!

 Chapter 30: Crab Conqueror

    "Whoa, that was close."


    I had my sword ready to finish it off quickly, but the moment the crab saw me, it spit out a high-pressure stream of water. The pressure was so intense that it could easily slice through steel, leaving the floor split wide open. Still, the crab''s movements were predictable, so I wasn''t too concerned.


    This monster, while appearing on the 57th floor, is just as strong as the creatures found in the deeper layers of the Shibuya Dungeon. Plus, its sheer size makes it a bit tricky to deal with.


    "Raijuu." S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    This crab is incredibly resistant to physical attacks, but it''s vulnerable to magic. Instead of relying on brute force, I''ll have Raijuu assist with lightning.


    As soon as Raijuu was summoned, it dashed off at a speed that left sound behind. The crab had no way to keep up with it. In fact, it seemed to give up on trying to react, relying on its sturdy shell to protect itself.


    "Time to use the magic I developed during my chunibyo phase. Take this!"


    I feel a bit embarrassed admitting that, but it''s the truth. Since the crab''s shell is almost impervious to regular attacks, instead of slashing it directly, I''ll infuse my sword with magic and unleash a magical slash. Basically, it''s a flying magical slash.


    The crab must have realized its prized shell had taken some damage because it raised its claws and tried to intimidate me, showing its side as it quickly advanced and swung its massive claw down at me. Of course, it''s not that easy to hit me.


    The crab seemed ready for a follow-up attack, but Raijuu, who was zipping around, struck one of the crab''s legs, causing it to stumble and wildly flail its claws. Well, if it gets flipped onto its back, it''s game over for the crab.


    "Inmou-rokki."


    I sent Inmou-rokki flying from behind to breathe fire on the crab. After all, you''ve got to cook a crab before you can eat it. Real snow crabs are usually soaked in clean water to remove any mud before cooking, but I doubt this one has any mud inside, right? Anyway, I''m not the one who''ll be cooking it, so it''s fine.


    Despite losing its balance due to Raijuu and being roasted by Inmou-rokki, the crab still fought back by spewing more water. It''s a pain when it starts firing those high-pressure water cutters in all directions, so I should finish this soon. First, I''ll target the leg that Raijuu damaged with a flying slash to deepen the cut, then I''ll strike down with my sword to sever it.


    "Gashadokuro."


    The crab wasn''t too fazed by losing a leg, but it''s currently feeling the danger to its life and is thrashing around. So, I''ll have Gashadokuro pin it down.


    I summoned Gashadokuro at a size comparable to the crab''s, and it grabbed the crab''s claws, preventing them from opening, just like how you''d handle a crab before cooking it. I didn''t specifically command it to do that, but this skeleton creature is surprisingly smart, despite having no brain.


    With its claws restrained, being roasted by fire, and pinned down by Gashadokuro, the crab''s belly was wide open, so I stabbed it with my sword. The remaining five legs tried to strike back, but Raijuu deflected them all.


    I channeled magic into the sword, causing a controlled explosion inside the crab''s body. If the explosion is too strong, the crab would scatter into pieces, ruining the meat, so I kept it to a moderate level¡ªjust enough to ensure its death. After some final thrashes, it went still.


    "Mission accomplished... Now, how do I get this thing back?"


    For some reason, probably because it''s a boss monster, the crab doesn''t disintegrate into ashes like other monsters, leaving its massive carcass behind. This makes it edible, but also a hassle to transport. Dragging this huge thing back isn''t ideal, but chopping it into pieces to carry is even worse.


    "Well, let''s just drag it back."


    Deciding not to overthink it, I dismissed Inmou-rokki, Gashadokuro, and Raijuu, and summoned Gyuuki to haul the crab. I''ll keep Tsuchigumo on guard in case we get ambushed on the way back.


    "Tsuchigumo."


    A massive spider, several meters tall, emerged from the shadows. The Tsuchigumo was named after a derogatory term used for those who defied the ancient Japanese imperial court, but I reimagined it into a yokai that spreads diseases. In this case, I''ve simplified that into a poison that causes severe bleeding.


    Originally described as having the face of a demon, the body of a tiger, and the limbs of a spider, this yokai was too complex for me to visualize, so I just made it a giant spider instead. If it''s hard to imagine, I can''t summon it.


    "Keep us safe."


    I could have gone with Gozu or Mezu for the guard duty, but the twisted paths of Takayama Dungeon make Tsuchigumo''s less direct attack style more suitable. Not that it really matters who does it.


    "Whoa!"


    "What the hell is that?!"


    As I headed back, I started encountering explorers around the mid-tier floors. None of them failed to be startled by the sight of a massive crab being dragged by Gyuuki, escorted by Tsuchigumo.


    "Is that... a crab?"


    "Is that UNKNOWN?"


    "No way, is that the real one?"


    Yes, it''s the real deal. I''ve become quite famous without realizing it. Maybe I should start being more cautious when heading to Shibuya Dungeon or even just taking the train to school. It would be a pain, but I guess I''ll have to. On the bright side, it means I can start my streaming career without worrying about causing any more of a fuss. Time to think positively, I guess.


    "I think it''s time for a lunch break..."


    : Watching this is exhausting.


    : Asagao-chan, the endurance beast.


    : This is basically a dungeon endurance stream.


    : The comment section is just people passing out.


    : A few hours of gaming, sure, but a few hours of dungeon streaming? Insane.


    : I''m out.


    Feeling tired of walking, I decided to ride Kirin while keeping an eye on Asakawa-san''s stream, just as she was about to take a lunch break. Even though she called it a break, she kept the stream going as she nibbled on what looked like a sandwich, all while staying alert in the dungeon. You could just exit the dungeon or cut the stream, but no, she''s a full-on dungeon fanatic.


    "Well, since I''m eating and have some time, let''s do a Q&A."


    : A girl having a Q&A session while eating in the mid-tiers of a dungeon.


    : Reminds me of those British soldiers having tea during battle.


    : This is too much; I can''t even think of questions.


    : What are you eating?


    "Just a convenience store sandwich. Picked it up at Shibuya Station."


    : Lmao.


    : For some reason, that''s hilarious.


    : What about the lower tiers?


    : Is Kisaragi-kun not there?


    : Chilling in the mid-tiers, like a boss?


    "The lower tiers are on hold for now. As for Tsukasa-kun... I think he said he was at Takayama Dungeon?"


    : Takayama Dungeon?


    : Why go all the way out there?


    : For food, obviously.


    : Traveling that far just for food is dumb.


    : When''s Tsukasa-kun''s stream starting?


    : What''s the plan for the afternoon?


    : Are you going to college after high school?


    "He''s there for a mission, you know? Being EX is tough. As for his stream... probably later this month? For the afternoon, I''ll keep exploring the mid-tiers... As for after graduation...


    I''m not sure yet."


    She''s streaming so casually. Should I be impressed that she''s become confident enough to be this relaxed in the mid-tiers, or should I admire her dedication as a streamer? Well, given that she can handle multiple wyverns at once, Asakawa-san should be fine now.


    Meanwhile, just watching her eat lunch makes me hungry too. I should hurry and deliver this crab to the Association so I can grab a nice, slightly expensive lunch with the agent who drove me here. That sounds like a plan.


    And maybe, just maybe, after this mission, I''ll take a break and check out some of the local delicacies. High-end cuisine isn''t something I indulge in often, but after handling a mission like this, I think I''ve earned it. I mean, how often do I get to handle a giant crab and then feast on gourmet food? Not often enough, that''s for sure.


    As I finally make it to the Association, the crab still dragging behind me, I can''t help but think about what''s next. Will I finally get around to starting my own stream, as everyone seems to be expecting? Will I be able to keep up with the increasing demands of being an EX-ranked explorer while maintaining some semblance of a normal life? Who knows.


    But one thing is certain: today, I''m going to enjoy a well-deserved meal. And maybe, just maybe, I''ll figure out where this crazy life of mine is headed next.


    But for now, all I can focus on is the delicious meal that''s waiting for me after this. And honestly? That''s more than enough.

 Chapter 31: New Challenges

    After dropping off the crab at the Takayama Dungeon Association, I arranged for part of the meat to be sent via courier. The rest would likely end up in high-end restaurants soon enough.


    When I offered to treat the driver who had been waiting outside the dungeon to a nice lunch, he politely declined, saying it was too much. So, I dragged him to a ramen shop against his will. Takayama ramen is known for its chicken broth and curly noodles, but the standout feature for me is the delicious chashu. Hida beef really is something special.


    I prefer these small, family-run shops to more expensive, high-end places.


    When it came time to pay, I quickly settled the bill with my digital wallet, leaving the driver looking a bit embarrassed. But considering I''ve probably earned more in a year than most people do in a lifetime, I don''t think it''s unreasonable for me to cover lunch.


    The driver probably felt awkward about a high schooler treating him, but I can''t let someone who''s already overworked and tired do any more for me.


    "...Thank you very much," he said.


    I chuckled softly. "Really, it''s no big deal."


    As the car moved along, the driver thanked me again, which made me smile. The Explorer Association, being a government agency, is typically staffed by elite public servants. However, the workload and responsibilities seem to turn most of them into worn-out, overworked drones. Given that, there''s no way I could demand VIP treatment just because I''m an EX-Rank Explorer.


    Treating the guy to a meal was the least I could do.


    ''¡­Isn''t today''s stream kind of boring?''


    : Long hours of dominating mid-tier monsters, and now you''re complaining?


    : She''s totally lost her sense of scale.


    : Have you even watched any other dungeon streams?


    : Asagao-chan, unwittingly the strongest.


    : Just being in the mid-tiers is impressive, you know?


    On-screen, Asakawa-san continued battling mid-tier monsters, as relentless as ever. Sure, I''d advised her that the best way to increase her mana capacity was to keep fighting, but I didn''t expect her to take it this far. She''s surprisingly dedicated.


    From what I could see, she was trying to conserve mana as much as possible, but even with a lunch break, she''d been fighting for hours now. She had to be getting tired by this point. If it looked like she was really overextending, I''d send her a message or give her a call. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ''I think I can keep going a bit longer, so let''s keep at it.''


    : Yikes.


    : When did she turn into such a beast?


    : She''s always been a beast.


    : This is Kisaragi-kun''s influence.


    : So, she''s been "corrupted" by a man?


    : Unforgivable.


    : LOL


    : Asagao-chan''s body has been trained by Kisaragi-kun to crave battle.


    : Is this the start of an NTR story or a new game announcement?


    : So, Kisaragi-kun was a seasoned mercenary all along.


    Seeing my name pop up in the comment section during Asakawa-san''s stream gave me an idea of why my official SNS account, which I''d set up recently, was getting flooded with angry messages. These were likely from hardcore fans who couldn''t stand the idea of me, a real-life connection to Asakawa-san, existing. Not that I''m going to stop associating with her because of that.


    ''Oh, some orcs are coming. Three of them¡­ I want to finish this in a minute.''


    : What are you aiming for?


    : The deep tiers, obviously.


    : Don''t skip the lower tiers!


    : EX-tier, duh.


    : So, she''s aiming to transcend humanity.


    : Even if Asagao-chan becomes a superhuman, I''ll still support her.


    : She''s already not quite human, to be fair.


    : Finishing three orcs in a minute is just ridiculous.


    Asakawa-san didn''t even glance at the comments as she sprinted forward at a speed that blurred the camera. She drove her spear through the first orc''s neck, then shot beams from her fingertips to pierce the second orc''s skull. All of this happened in about five seconds. However, since orcs don''t die just from having their necks pierced, only the middle one was taken out.


    The two remaining orcs quickly tried to retaliate, raising their clubs, but Asakawa-san moved too fast for the camera to keep up. She summoned a barrage of magical fangs that tore the first orc to shreds, then fired five beams from her fingers to finish off the last one.


    ''How was that?''


    : Uh¡­


    : How are we supposed to react?


    : Amazing.


    : Insane.


    : Ridiculous.


    : Well, that''s our monster for you.


    : Asagao-chan, you''re so cool!


    : The time¡­ 41 seconds!


    : She''s gone to a place we can''t reach.


    Watching that, it''s clear that Asakawa-san has been working not only on increasing her mana but also on improving the potency of her magic. Honestly, given how quickly she''s developing new spells, her magical talent far surpasses mine.


    ''I''ve been developing new magic, partly inspired by Tsukasa-kun''s techniques. I hadn''t used them earlier since the monsters weren''t tough enough to warrant it, but wow, the mana cost is high.''


    : That¡­ was a beam, right?


    : Definitely a beam.


    : It was clearly a beam.


    : Can a beam even be considered magic?


    ''I''m just compressing lightning magic and shooting it out.''


    : "Just" compressing lightning magic, she says.


    : I''ve been utterly defeated by the concept of magic compression.


    : Completely beyond my comprehension.


    : Yep, explorers are from another dimension.


    : Cute.


    : So cool, Asagao-chan!


    : For a second, I thought Asagao-chan had turned into a robot.


    She hasn''t mentioned it on stream, but it seems like Asakawa-san has significantly improved her ability to enhance her physical speed with mana. The camera can''t keep up with her movements yet, probably because she hasn''t fine-tuned the settings. If she''s already moving this fast, it won''t be long before she surpasses even the legendary speed of my grandmother, who''s known as the fastest explorer.


    I still can''t beat my grandmother in terms of speed.


    Given how she''s dominating mid-tier monsters while casually chatting on her stream, I think she''s more than capable of handling the lower tiers on her own now. I should send her a message.


    [Watching your stream. You''re doing great.]


    [Honestly, I think you''re ready for the lower tiers.]


    Alright, I think I''ll take a nap until we get back to Tokyo.


    ''Oh, I just got a message. Hold on a sec.''


    : Is it from a guy?


    : Or a girl?


    : Probably a friend.


    : It''s me.


    : I''m betting on Kisaragi-kun.


    : Maybe it''s the Association?


    : It''s me, I swear.


    : Kisaragi-kun is the most likely.


    : Didn''t she say he was at Takayama Dungeon?


    [Thanks!]


    [Is your job done, Tsukasa-kun?]


    [Knowing you''re watching makes me a bit nervous, haha.]


    [I was thinking of trying something challenging, but¡­]


    [I kind of want to go with you.]


    [Is that selfish?]


    [Let me know when you''re back in Tokyo!]


    Wow, she replied fast. She''s typing out messages on her phone right there in the stream.


    ''Since I got a message, I guess I''ll keep going a bit longer!''


    : Go for it!


    : Keep it up!


    : I''m going to take a nap, though.


    : It''s almost evening, though.


    : I should get back to work.


    : Don''t watch streams during work hours!


    : Is she getting ready to challenge the lower tiers?


    Yeah, I''m too curious now. I guess I''ll stay up and keep watching the stream.

 Chapter 32: First Steps into Streaming

    "Good morning, Kisaragi-kun!"


    "Morning! You were working over the weekend too, right?"


    "G-Good morning..."


    "You went all the way to Takayama, didn''t you? Got any stories to share?"


    "Um¡­ the ramen was delicious?"


    After spending Saturday at the Takayama Dungeon and lazily passing Sunday at home, I returned to school on Monday, only to be bombarded by classmates, both boys and girls, all eager to chat. Thankfully, no one directly messaged me, but still, the sudden attention was overwhelming.


    Ever since that incident with the popular guy and his entourage, I''ve become the center of attention, which is pretty inconvenient. Even on the train to school, I could hear people whispering about me, my heightened explorer senses picking up every word.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun."


    "Asakawa-san¡­ Good morning."


    "You look like you''ve been saved by the bell or something."


    Asakawa-san laughed softly, but to me, she really was a lifesaver. My classmates, who I can''t even match faces to names, kept talking to me non-stop, and it was wearing me down. Some people even talked to me thinking I was someone else entirely. I have no idea how far the rumors have spread, but it''s all become a bit much.


    "By the way, about the other day¡­"


    "The other day? Oh, you mean about going to the lower floors?"


    "Yeah, I''ve been thinking¡­ maybe I should try challenging it if I get the chance."


    Wait¡­ Is this an invitation? The way Nonohara-san, who''s standing next to her, is grinning makes me think this is definitely an invite to go to the dungeon together.


    Setting aside the fact that this is an invitation from a girl, Asakawa-san already has the strength that surpasses what you''d expect from a Rank C explorer. She''s definitely ready to explore the lower floors.


    "So, I was thinking¡­ why don''t we do a big stream together?"


    "A big stream? What do you mean?"


    "I mean, let''s stream my challenge of the lower floors together!"


    That''s¡­ a pretty risky idea.


    I get what she''s saying. Even though I haven''t streamed even once, my channel''s subscribers have been steadily growing for some reason, and now Asakawa-san is suggesting we do a simultaneous stream¡ªbasically a collaboration¡ªon her Asagao channel and mine.


    There are two major benefits to this collab. The first is that by partnering with the popular streamer Asagao, I can instantly raise the profile of my channel. The second is that I can learn the ropes of streaming from Asakawa-san during my first stream. But even with these big benefits, there are some significant drawbacks that make me hesitant.


    "Wouldn''t that be a burden on you, Asakawa-san?"


    "It''s fine! I''m not really selling myself as an idol or anything, so I don''t think it''ll cause too much backlash."


    She knows this as well as I do¡ªshe has some devoted fans who have a bit of a crush on her, and that could become a problem for both of us. When passionate fans feel betrayed, they can turn into vocal critics.


    Another potential downside is that if my first stream is a collab with Asagao, people might think that''s the kind of content my channel is focused on, but that''s something time would eventually sort out.


    "Alright, let''s do it."


    "Really? Honestly, I thought you''d turn me down."


    "Even with the potential downsides, I''m more interested in seeing you challenge the lower floors up close."


    "...That''s kind of embarrassing."


    Why is she embarrassed? Wanting to see a friend in action doesn''t seem strange to me. Sure, it might feel a bit awkward, but hey, this is my first stream too, so we''re in the same boat.


    "Hey, Nanami. I think¡­ Kisaragi-kun is totally oblivious."


    "Yeah¡­ I know."


    "Good luck!"


    "Thanks."


    "...?" S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I have no idea what''s going on, but Nonohara-san is giving Asakawa-san some kind of pep talk. Is this about tackling the lower floors? If so, why did they bring up my name?


    We got to class, and without much more conversation, the first period began. Asakawa-san looked like she wanted to say something, but maybe she''s still trying to find the right moment. I''m not great at understanding how to navigate friendships, so I decided to wait until she was ready.


    "In Japan, we have four explorers with the EX rank who handle extraordinary dungeon-related incidents¡­"


    When Dungeon History class began, I noticed that more people than usual were glancing my way, especially given the topic. Even the teacher kept sneaking looks at me. Hey, teacher, maybe you should focus on the lesson?


    "Ahem! So, in the United States, there are about six EX-ranked explorers, but they often face a shortage of personnel due to the vast size of the country and the number of dungeons."


    Yeah, well, Japan''s not much better off with its high dungeon density, but okay.


    "Hey, Kisaragi-kun, do you know the American EX-rank explorers?"


    "...I''ve met them once or twice."


    "Wow, so you''re really connected, huh?"


    I wouldn''t exactly say that. And what''s with people just casually chatting with me during class? Is this what normal students do? I wouldn''t know¡ªI''ve never had friends before.


    The World Dungeon Association Organization (WDAO), a United Nations body, brings together EX-ranked explorers from all over the world, not just America, so I''ve met them all at least once. Though WDAO''s work is highly confidential due to the sensitive nature of dungeon-related matters, so our meetings are never reported in the news.


    "Teacher, isn''t Kisaragi-kun an EX too?"


    "...There''s a lot I''d like to ask, but please save personal questions for after class."


    Seriously, teacher?


    Finally, it was the end of the school day. After that first period of Dungeon History, where even the teacher kept asking me questions, I was mentally drained. The rest of the day''s classes seemed to drag on forever. I guess the Dungeon History teacher, being a part-timer, was personally curious about dungeon matters.


    "Good work today¡­ Did you get any jobs?"


    "...Nothing''s come through."


    I checked my work phone, which I had stashed in my locker, but there were no messages. So, as we discussed this morning, it looks like we''re heading to Shibuya Dungeon to do a dual stream.


    While I''m used to diving into dungeons and solving problems, talking in front of people is a whole different challenge¡­ But I''ve got to do it. I''m genuinely curious about how this will go.


    "Alright! Let''s meet at Shibuya Dungeon right away!"


    "Got it."


    As a streamer, I''m finally taking my first step forward.

 Chapter 33: A Ride Through the Lower Floors

    Currently, I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa, preparing the camera on the first floor of the Shibuya Dungeon. Asakawa-san invited me to join her for a live stream, and I''m getting ready, but... I''m incredibly nervous. I guess if I were preparing and streaming alone, I wouldn''t be this nervous, but doing it together with Asakawa-san, a popular streamer, is really getting to me.


    "I''m starting now... Hi everyone, it''s Asagao! Today, I''m streaming from the uppermost level!"


    Asagao ch


    : Hey, hey


    : Hi, Asagao-chan!


    : Is this after school? Good luck!


    : Asagao-chan''s stream is on!


    : It''s here!


    : You look cute as always!


    With a smooth and natural movement, Asakawa-san started her stream, nodding while looking at the comments.


    "Today, as announced earlier, we have a special guest."


    Asagao ch


    : It''s a guy, huh


    : Oh, I see


    : Yay, Kisaragi-kun!


    : He''s not on camera


    : Where is he? S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : I didn''t think Asagao-chan would do a collab


    : It''s a guy, huh


    I glanced at the comments, but... is this really okay? I feel like I''m being seen as the enemy just for being a guy... What should I do?


    "Are you ready, Tsukasa-kun?"


    "I-I think so... probably."


    "Haha, you seem nervous."


    Asagao ch


    : Everyone''s nervous on their first stream, don''t worry about it


    : I''m curious about Kisaragi-kun too, so I''ll watch both streams


    : Hurry up, let''s go!


    : EX''s first stream is gonna be intense, huh


    : Good luck!


    I took a deep breath... Okay, enough with the hesitation. Let''s start the stream and help Asakawa-san with her training. She told me to just be myself during the stream!


    When I pressed the camera button, a countdown appeared. As soon as it hit zero, the stream started, and Asakawa-san nodded in satisfaction.


    "Hello, this is Kisaragi Tsukasa. Um... Asagao-san invited me to start streaming, so... I guess that''s the intro? Whatever. Nice to meet you."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Hey there, UNKNOWN-kun


    : Yo, UNKNOWN


    : It''s UNKNOWN lol


    : Good luck, UNKNOWN


    "Could you not make fun of my old username? It''s a bit of a sore spot."


    Why am I getting roasted here?


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Sorry, man


    : Yeah, ''Kisaragi'' is definitely the right kanji


    : Was there ever any doubt?


    : I didn''t know that


    : So, Kisaragi Tsukasa is written like that, huh


    : Got it


    I used my real name "Kisaragi Tsukasa" as the channel name, so it looks like a lot of people are just confirming the kanji. I guess it makes sense since I hadn''t registered it anywhere before.


    "So today, we''re doing a joint stream down to the lower floors!"


    Asagao ch


    : What the heck is he saying?


    : Did he just casually drop something insane?


    : Whoa, lol


    : You''re gonna die!?!


    : Are you still going for it?


    : She hasn''t given up yet?


    "Don''t worry, Tsukasa-kun will save me if things get dangerous."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : That''s a lot of responsibility


    : Starting with a bang, huh?


    : Good luck!


    : EX''s job isn''t easy


    : That''s not what an EX is supposed to do...


    "We''re friends. I''ll protect her... but only if it gets really dangerous."


    Of course, protecting a friend isn''t something I''d hesitate to do. But this is supposed to be Asakawa-san''s training, so my role is just to watch over her from the back and only step in if things get truly dangerous.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Yep, that''s the EX personality for you


    : Tough love, huh?


    : This training is wild


    "We''re only going to the 42nd floor, though."


    "What?!"


    "You''re not ready to go to the 50th floor yet; it''s not just about strength. You need knowledge to survive below the lower floors."


    "Okay... if you say so, we''ll stop at the 42nd floor today, right?"


    Asagao ch


    : Nice one, Kisaragi-kun


    : Keep her grounded, good job


    : He''s a good guy


    : The runaway train finally got brakes


    : She finally has a sensible friend...


    "Why is everyone so mean?!"


    I''m not exactly her brakes... Well, whatever.


    "Alright, let''s head down to the lower floors. ''Kirin''!"


    When I summoned Kirin, the creature I always ride on, Asakawa-san''s eyes sparkled as she began petting its fur.


    "Such a beautiful coat! It''s so cute!"


    Asagao ch


    : So, this is the famous Shikigami?


    : Those eyes are adorable


    : I imagined Kirin would look more fierce


    : I only know about Kirin the beer


    : A giraffe?


    : Kirin is a guardian beast from China


    "Hurry up and get on."


    "Okay!"


    "Hold the camera in your hand."


    Why does she look a bit dissatisfied? I thought she could pet it as much as she wanted once she''s on... Maybe that''s not what she wanted.


    Once I confirmed that Asakawa-san was mounted on Kirin, I patted Kirin''s neck, signaling it to start running, albeit at a slightly slower pace than usual. Even so, it won''t take long to reach the lower floors.


    "It''s so fast!"


    "This is slower than usual."


    "This is slow!?"


    Asagao ch


    : I feel sick


    : Terrifying


    : Isn''t this too fast?


    : So, this is how UNKNOWN completes his tasks so quickly


    : The camera can''t even keep up, so that''s why he said to hold it


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Oh wow


    : I''m used to seeing the upper floors go by like this


    : I''m used to the mid-levels too


    : A lot of dungeon explorers are watching Kisaragi-kun''s channel


    : Looks like a bunch of mid-level explorers are interested in watching this?


    : Today it''s just down to the lower floors, but this guy can go all the way to the depths, right?


    Looking at it like this, you can really see the difference in the audience demographics.


    I''m guessing that a lot of the people on Asakawa-san''s channel are more general viewers who aren''t as familiar with dungeons, drawn in by her popularity and curiosity about the dungeon interiors. Plus, her appearance, of course.


    On the other hand, judging by the comments on my stream, it seems like there are more people who are into the technical side of dungeons, discussing mid-level stuff. My audience probably consists of explorers who are interested in the lower and deeper levels.


    "Tsukasa-kun... you can look at your phone at this speed?"


    "I''m used to it."


    "I... see."


    When I head down to the deeper floors, it takes quite a bit of time, so I usually have Raiju accompany me while I move even faster. During that time, I get bored, so I play games or something. Right now, I''m just keeping an eye on the comments as they scroll by.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : If you''re bored, take questions


    : Is this a Q&A now?


    : What''s the difference?


    : Did you enjoy Takayama Dungeon?


    : What did you eat in Takayama?


    Looks like the viewers are bored too, so I''ll answer some questions.


    "Takayama Dungeon was pretty much what I expected. It was a bit refreshing to see a different crowd tackling the dungeon on a weekend. I treated the driver to some Takayama ramen because he looked pretty worn out. I wanted to take him to a more expensive place, but I figured he might decline."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Fair enough


    : I''d be hesitant to let a high schooler treat me to something expensive


    : Age matters, man


    : Takayama ramen is good stuff


    : I like the curly noodles


    : Now I want to visit Takayama


    : It''s easier to get there by the new train, but you drove?


    There''s indeed a train that connects Sapporo to Kagoshima.


    It was built to pass through Sapporo Dungeon, Sendai Dungeon, Shibuya Dungeon, Takayama Dungeon, Nagoya Dungeon, Osaka Dungeon, Hiroshima Dungeon, Fukuoka Dungeon, and Kagoshima Dungeon.


    "We had a stop to make in Shizuoka, so we took a car and spent quite a bit of time on the road."


    I hate to say it, but being an EX is a busy life.


    Seeing the comment sections on both Asakawa-san''s and my stream buzz just from talking about Takayama Dungeon, I realize that everyone''s really used to seeing Shibuya Dungeon all the time.

 Chapter 34: Facing the Unknown

    "Takayama Dungeon is basically all about food, right?"


    "Well¡­ yeah, pretty much."


    As a student, Asakawa-san doesn''t have much reason to explore dungeons outside of the Shibuya Dungeon, which is conveniently close to her home. Honestly, even if you''re not a student, not many people have much connection to dungeons outside their immediate area. I noticed a few comments in the chat from viewers asking about different dungeons, so it seems like there''s interest in hearing about them.


    "What''s the weirdest dungeon you''ve been to?"


    "¡­?"


    I''m not really sure what she means by "weird," but I''ll play along.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Weird as in what?


    : The environment or something?


    : Shibuya Dungeon is pretty standard, so maybe she means something like that?


    "If you mean the environment¡­ then probably the Nagoya Dungeon."


    "Really?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Isn''t Nagoya Dungeon just another dungeon?


    : Oh, I''ve heard about that one¡­


    : Isn''t that the one where you can mine rare metals?


    : You''ll get it when you see it for yourself.


    : I live in Nagoya. The environment in that dungeon is so harsh I gave up on becoming an explorer.


    Asagao Ch


    : Rare metals? For real?


    : That sounds like a goldmine dungeon!


    : The government should fully explore that dungeon.


    : They can''t, that''s the problem¡­


    : There''s no way to clear that dungeon, it''s too tough.


    : Just send in the EX-rankers, they''ll handle it.


    "A lot of people don''t seem to know about it."


    "Is it really that bad?"


    "You can find out for yourself if you do a bit of research."


    I thought the harsh environment of Nagoya Dungeon was common knowledge, but apparently, not everyone''s aware of it.


    Of course, I''ve been to Nagoya Dungeon myself. When I reached the middle layers, all I could think about was how much I wanted to go home.


    "We''re almost there."


    "Already?"


    "Yup, just about."


    I''ve been keeping track of every stair we''ve descended, so I know exactly which floor we''re on. Right now, Kirin is racing through the 39th floor.


    "Here we are, the stairs to the 41st floor."


    "Wow¡­ looking at these stairs reminds me of how I almost died here."


    Asagao Ch


    : Asagao-chan''s trauma spot.


    : If you''re traumatized, you wouldn''t come this far down again.


    : This brings back memories of that legendary stream.


    : Better turn back before another dragon shows up.


    : Maybe we should just head back now.


    Come on, she''s been down to the lower floors with me plenty of times since that incident. Granted, I''ve never let her ride Kirin until now, but we''ve visited for training several times off-stream. Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "And now, the real part of the stream begins."


    "Just another training session¡­ or maybe not. I''ll be using the high-powered spells I''ve been working on, so I''ll give it my all!"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Go for it!


    : You got this!


    : This feels way too casual.


    : Kisaragi doesn''t seem tense at all about heading to the lower floors.


    : Well, he''s EX-rank, after all.


    What do people think being EX-rank means? I''m still human; I get scared too. I can''t even watch horror movies.


    Think about it like this: even if a place is considered scary by others, if you''re used to walking through it every day on your way to school, you don''t get scared every time you pass by. The lower floors are just a route I take to reach the deeper levels of the dungeon. That''s all.


    "The 41st floor doesn''t have too many tough monsters, so it''s better to train on the 42nd floor."


    "¡­Are you saying that to the viewers?"


    "Yes. I think sharing information about the lower floors would be helpful for them."


    "Hmm¡­ there''s a disconnect in how dangerous this place is perceived."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : I mean, most of us don''t go to the lower floors just to train.


    : Are you giving a tour of a suicide spot?


    : Definitely a landmark¡­


    : Training on the lower floors is just ridiculous.


    : Don''t treat the lower floors like a grinding spot in a video game.


    "It''s not me who''s grinding for levels here."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : That''s not the point.


    : What¡­


    : This guy is seriously out of touch.


    : Well, he''s EX-rank, so¡­


    Why does it feel like there''s a lot of misinformation about EX-rank explorers?


    "Enemy ahead!"


    "Hmm?"


    As soon as we stepped onto the lower floor, a dog with two heads came into view down the corridor. With three heads, it''d be a Cerberus, but with two, it''s probably an Orthrus.


    Seeing that Orthrus made me think¡ªmaybe I should start summoning monsters from mythology, not just Japanese yokai. I''d need to study more to fill in the gaps in my knowledge, but it''s something to consider.


    "Is there any strategy for dealing with that dog?"


    "This is my first time seeing it."


    "Oh¡­ wait, what?"


    "Yeah, same here."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Lol, seriously?


    : You don''t know either?


    : What''s going on here?


    : So much for strategy tips¡­


    : You''ve got to be kidding me.


    I don''t know everything about the lower floors. Compared to the deeper floors, my knowledge is limited. Sure, I know the environment and the routes downward, but new monsters pop up from time to time, even in the upper floors. It''s pointless to try memorizing everything.


    "O-Okay¡­ I''ll handle this somehow."


    Asagao Ch


    : You better!


    : Protect her!


    : You''re the one who should be dealing with new enemies!


    : Be careful, Asagao-chan!


    As soon as Orthrus noticed us, it charged. Up close, it''s surprisingly big, though not quite as large as an ogre. Despite its bulk, it moved sluggishly, with fire flickering in both of its mouths.


    Still, with Asakawa-san''s ability to sense magical energy, she''ll be able to react to whatever it tries. I''m not too worried.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : I tuned in to watch Kisaragi, though¡­


    : Well, it''s the lower floors, so¡­


    : It''s his first stream, cut him some slack.


    : I guess it can''t be helped.


    Asagao Ch


    : She''s gotten way stronger since last time.


    : Must be the influence of that guy.


    : That sounds kinda sketchy.


    : Hard to believe she almost died down here before.


    : The camera can''t keep up with her movements¡ªshe''s too fast!


    Asakawa-san blocked Orthrus''s initial fire attack with several layers of magical shields before firing a compressed lightning beam from her fingertips. She told me it takes a lot of concentration to compress the magic, so she can only deploy up to five at once, which is a downside. I never even thought of compressing magic like that.


    Orthrus took the beam head-on, but its skin seemed incredibly tough¡ªonly a few scorch marks were left.


    "This might be tougher than I thought."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : You''re just watching, but shouldn''t you step in?


    : Are you gonna help?


    : Nah, not yet.


    : He''ll step in when it''s time.


    "It doesn''t help anyone if I''m too overprotective¡­ oops."


    A stray fireball almost hit me.


    Honestly, that Orthrus doesn''t seem like the kind of monster that should be appearing on the uppermost lower floors. Still, Asakawa-san should be able to handle it. If she can take it down confidently, she''s beyond Rank C already.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : I underestimated her¡ªAsagao-chan is legit monster class.


    : The basic moves of both of them are so fast it''s hard to follow.


    : That dog is way tougher than it looks.


    : Well, it''s the lower floors.


    : Asagao-chan can use magic while wielding a spear and still move at that speed?


    "That dog¡ªif I had to name it, I''d call it Orthrus¡ªseems a bit slow. It''s definitely strong, but I think a well-placed strike to a vital spot should take it down."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Um, that''s easier said than done.


    : Where exactly is its vital spot?


    : Too fast¡­


    : "A well-placed strike" (Yeah, right).


    : Where exactly is the vital spot?


    "¡­The heart?"


    Actually, where is it? If it were me, I''d aim to decapitate the two heads right off the bat. Sure, it''s risky to get that close, but the reward is worth it. And if you''re not in real danger, isn''t that risk worth taking?

 Chapter 35: Balancing Battle and Banter

    "Whoa, it''s spitting fire everywhere¡­"


    Asakawa-san is trying to pierce through Orthrus''s tough skin while maintaining her defensive spells. I can''t quite make out what she''s saying through the sounds of battle, but from what I''ve picked up from the stream''s audio, she seems a bit disappointed that the spell she developed specifically to pierce through Ogre hide didn''t work.


    "¡­Something''s coming."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : That''s not just "something."


    : Isn''t that a half-transparent skeleton?


    : Didn''t Asagao-chan nearly die to that thing before?


    : Don''t just brush it off as "something."


    "This is basic strategy info, but I''ve already shared this with Asakawa-san¡­ That half-transparent skeleton is only a threat the first time you encounter it. It''s not actually that dangerous."


    The monster is notorious for being a first-time killer on the 41st and 42nd floors, but honestly, the Orthrus that Asakawa-san is fighting is way stronger.


    "That skeleton is in an astral form, meaning its magical energy is spread thin. A direct hit with a spell that''s powerful enough will take it down. Like this."


    I casually toss a fireball its way. The fireball, just strong enough to hit and destroy the astral skeleton, does its job perfectly, blowing the skeleton to pieces. That''s pretty much what you get in the lower floors.


    "See?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Uh¡­


    : That was kinda intense.


    : "See?" Seriously?


    : You''re just casually breaking the game.


    : That was crazy.


    : A first-time killer is still dangerous to most people!


    : You''re nuts, man.


    There''s a flood of somewhat rude comments. But really, Asakawa-san could probably do this too. The lightning beam she used on Orthrus would be more than enough to take it down.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Is this the lower-floor stream we were all waiting for?


    : Is it though?


    : Definitely not.


    : We wanted to see some real struggles.


    : You can''t expect that from an EX-rank.


    : Yeah, that''s asking too much.


    "Hey, I''m still just a normal human being, you know?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Sure, sure.


    : If you say so.


    : Human?


    : Real humans can''t run at subsonic speeds, dude.


    You could train up and run at subsonic speeds too if you tried.


    "Still, it looks like you''re having a real tough battle there."


    Orthrus is definitely a tough opponent, but I thought Asakawa-san could handle it¡­ Maybe I underestimated the challenge. Though, it might just be a bad matchup for her.


    "Want me to take over?"


    "Do you think I''d actually say yes to that?"


    "Keep up the good work."


    Asakawa-san, tumbling toward me after taking a hit, gave the expected response when I offered to step in. But facing a tough opponent like that is how she''ll grow, so I''ll just focus on clearing out the smaller threats that might come her way.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Is she really okay?


    : It does seem like she''s pushing through.


    : I was watching Asagao''s stream, but I switched over here because I couldn''t keep up with her speed.


    : She''s moving so fast, it''s hard to keep up.


    : Maybe she needs a better camera setup.


    : Asagao-chan¡­ you''re really leveling up.


    "If her camera can''t keep up with the speed, maybe it''s time to invest in a new one?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Didn''t Asagao-chan''s camera cost a fortune?


    : Yeah, it was crazy expensive.


    : You''re suggesting something even pricier?


    "A good camera is a streamer''s lifeline."


    That said, even technology has its limits. You can''t just keep throwing money at it to infinitely improve performance.


    "Whoops."


    While responding to the viewers'' comments, I noticed a burst of fire heading my way. It''s probably a stray shot that Asakawa-san deflected. I casually deflected it with a bit of magical energy on my bare hand.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Did he just swat away the fireball that Asagao-chan was struggling to block with her bare hand?


    : Must be my imagination¡­


    : This is terrifying.


    : Why don''t you just solo the whole thing?


    : This is straight-up scary.


    : EX-rankers are nightmare fuel.


    : If this is the lower floors, how bad are the deeper levels?


    : You should know by now¡­


    "The deeper floors¡­ well, let''s just say ''hellish'' is an appropriate description."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : What does that even mean?


    : I''m looking forward to it now.


    : Rion Kamishiro''s stream definitely felt like it was from hell.


    : The environments there are all kinds of messed up.


    It makes sense that viewers are curious about the deeper floors. I''ve explored a decent number of dungeons, and I''ve seen quite a few deep floors, but I still can''t find any consistent patterns. The deeper levels of the Shibuya Dungeon, in particular, are full of mysteries.


    "The deep floors in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, are what I''d call a fascinating kind of hell."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Fascinating hell? What even is that?


    : That sounds like an oxymoron.


    : Wait, where is Northern Territory again?


    : It''s in Australia.


    : Alice Springs is definitely in Australia.


    : Australia, the land of dungeons.


    : Japan''s a dungeon land too, technically.


    : I know nothing about overseas dungeons, so this is intriguing.


    I''d like to stream from an overseas dungeon someday. Thanks to WDAO (World Dungeon Association Organization), getting permission to explore overseas dungeons is just a matter of getting the right paperwork. Of course, any materials you find have to go through the proper channels if you want to take them out of the country, but you can always sell them locally.


    "Streaming from overseas dungeons could be fun. There are lots of interesting spots. Mumbai in Maharashtra, India, has a pretty wild one. Personally, I''d recommend the dungeon in Houston, Texas."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Oh, wow.


    : Getting all talkative, huh?


    : Classic nerd move¡ªtalking too fast when excited.


    : I don''t want to hear a dungeon otaku ramble about overseas dungeons.


    : LOL


    : I kind of want to see these places¡­


    "If you''re worried about safety, America''s a good bet. Oh, and by the way, I''m talking about the deep floors in all these places."


    India isn''t all that dangerous, but compared to Japan, there are more things to be cautious about. America''s probably a better choice for first-timers. Thanks to the influence of explorers, even the gun culture there is calming down a bit.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Yikes.


    : I wanted to go, but now I''m rethinking it.


    : The deep floors? No way.


    : I''m out!


    : Don''t you need an international explorer rank to access foreign dungeons anyway?


    "Don''t worry. Japan is a signatory to WDAO, so as long as you follow the process, you can explore overseas dungeons."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Haven''t heard about WDAO in a while.


    : Are they actually doing anything?


    : They keep everything so secret; it''s hard to know.


    : You probably know all the inside info since you''re EX-rank. Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Of course, I do. I know way more than I can talk about.


    "Oh, Orthrus is dead."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : LOL


    : At least pretend to care.


    : Stop getting so wrapped up in conversation.


    : Kisaragi''s stream is more interesting than I expected.


    : Chatting casually like a friend while being an EX-rank streamer.


    : This is so different from anything else.


    : Pay attention to Asagao-chan!


    "¡­My bad."


    "You''re apologizing already?"


    Asakawa-san, who''s approaching after taking down Orthrus, is smiling, but I can tell she''s a bit annoyed. I was supposed to be keeping an eye on her, but I got too wrapped up in the stream chat.


    "Well, I''m glad you''re enjoying the stream, but I don''t appreciate being ignored while I''m fighting my hardest."


    "I really am sorry."


    I''ve never had many friends, so chatting with viewers who actually respond to what I''m saying is a lot more fun than I expected¡­ but that''s no excuse.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Is she your girlfriend?


    : The classic "boyfriend too absorbed in his game" situation.


    : Could this be¡­ something more?


    : licks finger Yep, that''s the taste of romance!


    : Stop it, some folks in Asagao''s chat are losing their minds.


    : LMAO


    : Ah, young love.


    "Th-That''s not it!"


    Asakawa-san is flusteredly waving her hands at the camera. Should I do the same? No, that''d be too embarrassing. This is definitely one of those moments where I''d get teased relentlessly.

 Chapter 36: Surprises and Monsters

    After that, Asakawa-san continued fighting for quite some time while I answered questions and engaged in trivial chit-chat, and eventually, the stream came to an end. In hindsight, considering the number of viewers that tuned in, I''d say it was a successful first stream.


    "Thanks for today."


    "¡­Why so suddenly?"


    "Oh, it''s nothing, just the usual."


    By "the usual," she probably means me tagging along for her training. If that''s the case, then it''s no problem at all. After all, in exchange, Asakawa-san has been teaching me how to stream, including what to avoid doing during a stream. Personally, I think this specialized knowledge is as valuable as the information I have about the deeper layers of the dungeon.


    "So, what are you planning to do after graduation, Tsukasa-kun?"


    "I''ve already decided."


    "What!? That''s fast!"


    After today''s stream, I felt like I had a clear vision of my future. To be honest, before this, I thought I''d just spend my days diving into dungeons, but I''ve found something I truly want to do.


    "Maybe something like continuing to explore dungeons as an EX-rank explorer?"


    "I''m going to start my own streaming company and become the CEO!"


    "¡­What?"


    "If you''re still freelancing by then, I''ll definitely invite you to join!"


    There don''t seem to be many large companies that employ streamers, especially those specializing in dungeon streaming. Most dungeon streamers are independent, and it seems like virtual streamers playing games are more common. In other words, starting a company focused on dungeon streaming might be a great opportunity.


    "Haha¡­ You''re such an interesting person, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Hey, that''s a bit¡­ hurtful¡­"


    "No, I think it''s great! If you''ve found a dream, you should definitely chase it!"


    Laughing, Asakawa-san started running off. I was staring at her retreating back when she suddenly turned around.


    "Make sure you come and get me when you do!"


    "¡­Sure."


    Don''t say things like that¡­ like a princess. But if starting a company to bring her on board is part of that, then maybe that''s not so bad.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : So yeah, I''m planning to start a company specializing in dungeon streaming in the future.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Wait, what?


    : What do you mean by that?


    : Does this guy even listen to himself?


    : This is new¡­


    The next day, while streaming solo in the lower floors, I mentioned my newly formed dream as more people tuned in than I expected, and I got a somewhat surprised reaction.


    "I''ve got plenty of money, so starting the company itself isn''t an issue, but I want to run it in the black, you know?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Did he just casually drop that he''s rich?


    : Well, he is EX-rank¡­


    : He must be making bank.


    : I wonder how much those deep-layer magic stones go for.


    : Even the strong ones in the lower layers are worth as much as a month''s salary for a regular worker, I heard.


    : Whoa.


    The chat seems to be going off on a tangent about money, but I''d rather not discuss finances. Although, I guess I did bring it up first with the company talk¡­


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : CEO and streamer at the same time, huh?


    : Sounds good.


    : That actually sounds fun.


    : Will Asagao-chan join?


    : Based on what he said, probably.


    : CEO dating one of the company''s streamers¡­ can I make a fanfic out of this?


    : Please don''t.


    "Well, let''s save that topic for January¡­ We''re about to hit the deeper layers."


    We''re currently on the 60th floor of Shibuya Dungeon. According to my viewers, the only other person who''s streamed past this point is that troublemaker, Rion Kamishiro. Since it''s the golden hour on a weekday evening, the viewer count is pretty high.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Finally¡­


    : This is going to be legendary.


    : Every stream he does is legendary.


    : The lower floors are already legendary.


    : What kind of hellhole is the deep layer?


    : He called the one in Australia a "fun hell," right?


    : What about Shibuya?


    "It''s just a plain old hell."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : It''s hell.


    Of course, it is. What were they expecting in the deep layers of a dungeon? Even so, I think this place is still way better than the Nagoya Dungeon.


    "Alright, here we go. The 61st floor is basically a giant lake."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Huh?


    : What does that even mean?


    : Why''d he say something so weird?


    : That makes no sense.


    It''s exactly what it sounds like. The 61st floor is a vast, shallow lake that reflects the light from the crystals on the ceiling, making it sparkle like the famous Uyuni Salt Flat. There''s no other way to describe it.


    As I descend the stairs and step onto the 61st floor, I''m greeted by a lake that stretches out, reflecting the crystal''s light in a dazzling display. Honestly, it''s a breathtakingly beautiful place.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Seriously?


    : This should be a World Heritage site.


    : Except it''s not.


    : I''m going to become a dungeon explorer now.


    : Remember, this is the deep layer.


    : You need to be at least A-rank to enter, so good luck with that.


    : Still, I''d love to see it.


    : "Hell"? Nah, this is paradise.


    : They must''ve been lying about it being hell.


    "¡­There''s something here."


    Some viewers are calling this place paradise, but that''s because they''re not actually here. Honestly, I have the strength to handle the enemies on this floor without any real trouble, but that doesn''t mean it''s not a hassle.


    From the moment I set foot in the water, I could feel the hostility emanating from somewhere below. The chat continues to marvel at the beauty, but I know something is getting closer.


    "Oh, here we go!"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : !?


    : What is that?


    : I''ve changed my mind; I''m not becoming an explorer.


    : I''m going back to the upper floors.


    : Yikes¡­


    : My brain just shut down.


    As the water ripples, a massive, worm-like creature with a mouth but no eyes bursts out from below. If it were just the size of a regular worm, it wouldn''t be so bad, but this thing is enormous. Eyeballing it, I''d say it''s around 20 meters long. And that''s just one there are probably a few more lurking below.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Gross.


    : Nope, nope, nope.


    : I can''t with this.


    : That''s disgusting.


    : Too much.


    : This is nasty.


    : Gross!


    The creature tries to chomp down on me, but I sidestep it just in time. It lets out a bizarre, unearthly screech as it turns and charges at me again, moving at an unnervingly fast pace for something with no limbs. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "''Kama-itachi.''"


    Like I said before, I''m more than capable of handling this level of enemy. The worm speeds towards me, but a quick slash from Kama-itachi cuts it cleanly in half, and its bisected body sails past me.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Strong.


    : He just one-shotted a deep-layer monster, seriously?


    : I''m starting to grasp just how powerful EX-rank really is.


    : We''re getting this content for free?


    : We should be paying for this.


    : LOL


    : Is it really okay to show this deep-layer content for free?


    The chat''s going off about something, but I haven''t figured out the monetization and donation features yet, so that''ll have to wait. I''ll ask Asakawa-san to teach me after school sometime soon.


    For now, I''ve got to deal with the other worms hiding below.


    "Huh?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Wait, what?


    : Something''s not right.


    : There''s a shark fin cutting through the water.


    : This dungeon just has everything, doesn''t it?


    : How are worms and sharks swimming in ankle-deep water?


    That''s what I''ve been wondering. How are these massive creatures swimming around in water that barely covers my ankles? You''d think that with these giant beasts moving around, I''d be sinking into a bottomless pit, but here I am, still standing.


    Lost in thought, I almost get hit by another worm launching itself at me, but I slice off its head with Kama-itachi. Just then, a shark-like creature bites the worm in half.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Did that monster just eat another monster?


    : Can that even happen?


    : It''s the circle of life, I guess.


    : They''re monsters, though.


    : I guess that''s just how it works in the deep layers (LOL).


    Actually, that''s correct. For some reason, in the deep layers, monsters do sometimes eat each other. This phenomenon isn''t unique to Shibuya Dungeon; it''s observed worldwide. Some say that this predatory behavior might be why these monsters are so strong.


    Anyway, the problem now is that the shark about as big as a megalodon but with frog-like legs jutting out from its body is glaring at me.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Kinda cute.


    : It''s got little legs.


    : Like a giant tadpole, but not cute.


    : That size isn''t cute at all.


    : How big is it?


    : How long was that worm, anyway?


    "The worm was about 20 meters long."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : So this thing''s like 30 meters, then.


    : Whoa¡­


    : That''s massive.


    Just walking around, this thing makes the ground shake.


    "I really don''t like this shark."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Is it strong?


    : Is this the part where the EX finally struggles?


    : The deep layers are no joke, huh?


    : Yeah, this place is seriously dangerous.


    I just really hate this shark. It''s not about whether it''s strong or weak, big or small none of that matters.


    "I tried making shark fin soup out of one of these before, but it tasted awful."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Who cares?


    : Be serious.


    : What?


    : You''ve got to be kidding.


    : Why did you even think that was a good idea?


    : This guy''s nuts.


    That''s harsh. It seems like the viewers aren''t exactly on my side.


    Since it''s inedible, there''s no point in preserving its form. I''m going to take it down without holding back.

 Chapter 37: Volcanic Tortoise

    "Man, that shark and those worms were tough opponents."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Tough opponents (instant kill)


    : Tough opponents (sliced into three)


    : What do you mean by "tough"?


    : Can''t comprehend.


    : LOL


    : The concept of "tough" is breaking.


    : Even the deep layer seems easy for him!


    : Someone''s losing it here.


    Since they''re disgusting and inedible, I had Kama-itachi slice them into three, but in hindsight, maybe I should''ve taken my anger out on them more.


    That aside, I''ve noticed more English comments mixed in with the usual ones. Could it be that I have a decent number of overseas viewers? I can read English well enough, but speaking it is another matter, and I don''t have the reading speed to keep up with English comments in a fast-moving chat.


    "Do you think I should put ''Shibuya Dungeon Deep Layer'' in English in the stream title for the overseas viewers?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : If you do that, more people will definitely join.


    : But the chat might get flooded with English comments.


    : Can you even read English, Kisaragi?


    "I can read it to some extent¡­ By the way, it seems like everyone is sticking with calling me Kisaragi-kun." S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Well, it''s easier to say.


    : Easier than Tsukasa-kun.


    : Better than UNKNOWN, right?


    : Kisaragi-kun sounds more friendly.


    : Go, Kisaragi-kun!


    : Is this a classmate?


    Hmm, if the viewers prefer it that way, I guess it''s fine. But it feels a bit underwhelming¡­ maybe that''s just the remnants of my ch¨±niby¨­ phase talking.


    "Anyway, let''s push further to the 65th floor as a test run."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : That''s not a number you should be reaching as a "test run."


    : Even the 41st floor is insane, to be honest.


    : My brain''s breaking.


    : Now I can''t be satisfied with anything less than deep-layer streams!


    If there''s this much demand, other deep-layer explorers should probably stream too. But they likely hate revealing their cards to others, like how gaming pros refuse to show their setups. It''s the same kind of thing.


    The 61st floor, which is like an endless expanse of shallow water resembling the Uyuni Salt Flats, mainly features aquatic creatures. You have monsters like the worms and sharks from earlier, or this strange lizard-like creature that just popped up in front of me.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : What is that?


    : Looks like a salamander.


    : Salamander (but it''s clearly 10 meters long).


    : Do salamanders have four eyes?


    : Of course not.


    : That''s a really gross color.


    : It''s funny how the viewers are slowly getting used to this.


    The strange creature that popped out from below does indeed have a rather disgusting color, as the viewers pointed out. Specifically, it''s a mix of fluorescent green and pink, a combination that''s visually harsh.


    "In the natural world, creatures with such striking colors often have poison, right?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Creatures with poison don''t usually get that big.


    : True.


    : Fluorescent colors usually mean poison.


    : It''s a warning color to make others stay away.


    "This guy''s definitely poisonous."


    This salamander-looking creature, which I''ve encountered before, suddenly released poison last time, causing me a lot of trouble.


    As the huge salamander shakes, it releases a yellow gas that spreads around its body. Just one breath of this gas is enough to make you dizzy, pretty nasty stuff.


    "''Karasu Tengu.''"


    Since the gas was spreading, I summoned Karasu Tengu to manipulate the wind and blow the poison away.


    The Karasu Tengu, which I created to specialize in wind manipulation, whips up a strong wind with its bird-like wings, clearing away the gas. Once the area is clear, Kama-itachi dives in and slices the salamander into pieces. Since I consider lizard-like creatures to be quite resilient, I made sure to have it dismembered thoroughly.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : A short-lived life.


    : Poor salamander-kun.


    : The poison''s gone already.


    : Tengu is so cool.


    : I want to be a summoner too.


    : Is there anything this guy can''t do?


    : He''s got it all, doesn''t he?


    The chat''s getting excited, but honestly, if they''re impressed by the 61st floor, I''m not sure what to say. For those who regularly dive into the deep layers, the 61st floor is a relatively safe area with few troublesome enemies.


    In the end, I reached the 65th floor without any issues, just like usual. Unlike the lower layers, the environment in the deep layers changes frequently. The shallow lake environment only extends to the 62nd floor; from the 63rd floor onward, it changes to¡­ a volcanic zone.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : It''s hell.


    : We''ve been saying it''s hell from the start.


    : But I didn''t think it''d be this bad.


    : Didn''t expect it to be literally hell.


    : I''m sweating just watching.


    : Dungeons are terrifying.


    "It''s definitely hot down here."


    By the time you reach the 65th floor, the sheer size of the floor becomes overwhelming. The volcanic zone from the 63rd to 65th floors makes it feel even larger, despite the narrow paths. With molten lava spewing everywhere, calling this place hell isn''t far off.


    "I came down here as a test, but how''s everyone feeling?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Honestly¡­ I''m full.


    : It was fun, though?


    : Hmm, maybe there''s a slight disconnect in understanding here?


    "That''s just how explorers are."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Don''t lump us in with you.


    : Yikes.


    : Don''t think everyone''s like this guy.


    : Of course not.


    : If there were more people like him, all the dungeons would''ve been cleared by now.


    Still, it''s especially hot today on the 65th floor. Whenever that''s the case, it usually means that guy is around¡­


    "There it is."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : What is it?


    : I don''t see anything.


    : What''s up with your eyesight?


    : I won''t be surprised no matter what shows up now.


    The mountain in front of me¡­ moved.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Huh?


    : What?


    : What?


    : Who said they wouldn''t be surprised?


    : This makes no sense.


    : This is hell.


    A mountain-like monster, resembling a tortoise with a volcano on its back, is lumbering toward me. I described it as "lumbering," but it''s baring its fangs and spewing lava from the volcano on its back as it approaches.


    "It''s massive¡­ My neck hurts just looking up at it."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Why are you laughing?


    : Don''t just brush it off as a neck ache.


    : So this is what the deep layers are like.


    : No wonder no one wants to film down here.


    : Hmm¡­


    : Maybe you should run?


    "Since that''s the target for today, I won''t be running."


    Originally, I didn''t have a specific target in mind, but if I leave this volcanic tortoise alone, it''ll eventually end up as a task for me or my grandma to take down. Might as well take care of it now while I''m here.


    The tortoise, which is several tens of meters in size, makes the already sweltering 65th floor feel even more like hell, so it''s better to deal with it quickly.


    "Alright¡­"


    This tortoise won''t go down with half-hearted firepower, and if I let my guard down, it could easily incinerate me. Even though it''s appearing on the 65th floor, it''s clearly an 80th-floor-class monster. I''ll need to give it my all to take it down.


    Looks like it''s time to get serious again.

 Chapter 38: Shikigami Powers Unleashed

    "Fuu¡­ ''Gashadokuro.''"


    The volcanic tortoise already recognizes me as an enemy, so it''s best to start the attack quickly.


    "''Raiju,'' ''Ushi-oni.''"


    I pour magic into Gashadokuro, summoning it larger than usual, while having Raiju and Ushi-oni attack. Gashadokuro is about 20 meters tall this time, but the volcanic tortoise is more than twice its size. Clearly, regular shikigami alone won''t have enough firepower to take down a tortoise of this size head-on.


    When the firepower seems insufficient, the standard practice is for me to unleash a powerful spell myself.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : A shikigami festival, huh?


    : The apocalypse has begun.


    : I heard if Kisaragi loses, the world ends.


    : It''s actually not that far-fetched, which is the problem.


    : By the way, have you ever beaten this tortoise before?


    : Isn''t the deep layer just too terrifying?


    "I have. This tortoise is quite strong, but it''s not immortal."


    Asakawa-san''s method of compressing lightning magic and releasing it like a beam is an intriguing way to enhance power. Since I usually rely on shikigami in battle, I never thought of such an application of magic. The theory behind compression is simple enough: condense the magic and release it all at once with the resulting force. Even I can¡­ do it.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : He just fired a beam!


    : He''s definitely a robot.


    : Japan''s artificial weapon, I see.


    : This is insane.


    The compressed lightning beam I fired was indeed powerful¡ªit shaved off a corner of the volcanic tortoise''s shell. But the control is difficult, and I missed. On top of that, the excessive compression made the magic incredibly inefficient. For someone like Asakawa-san, who''s trying to increase her magical reserves, this might be just the right amount of strain.


    "Gashadokuro is struggling¡­ I guess I''ll have to double the magic I pour in if I want it to push back."


    The volcanic tortoise is formidable, as expected of an 80th-floor-class enemy. Raiju and Ushi-oni won''t be enough to take it down¡ªin fact, if I leave them like this, they''ll all lose. I could try supporting them with another well-aimed beam, but there''s a quicker way to handle this. Sure, I''ll be revealing my hand to the whole world, but it doesn''t really matter.


    I dismiss Gashadokuro, Raiju, and Ushi-oni, then gather magic in my hands for a new summoning.


    "''Kijin.''"


    I''m summoning my trump card in shikigami magic. This is the strongest shikigami I possess, the one that commands the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : A woman just appeared!?


    : Did it¡­ speak!?


    : Shikigami can talk!?


    : Is this human transmutation¡­?


    : Is there anything this guy can''t do?


    With a laugh, Kijin, who emerges with her long black hair flowing, speaks to me, making me smile wryly. It''s true that it''s been a while since I summoned Kijin¡ªor the Twelve Heavenly Generals¡ªbut I didn''t expect to see her smile in this scorching volcanic area.


    "''Shall we proceed?''"


    "I''m counting on you¡­ ''Byakko.''"


    I summon Byakko, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. Known as one of the Four Symbols in Japan, Byakko is the guardian beast of the west, associated with the element of metal in the Five Elements theory.


    Kijin is a shikigami who can do almost anything, essentially acting as my assistant when I summon the Twelve Heavenly Generals. She''s a reliable beauty, but sometimes she likes to tease me¡­ which can be a bit much.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Byakko!


    : The Four Symbols!


    : That''s a god!


    : Isn''t this too strong?


    : We could probably just let her handle everything, couldn''t we?


    My fastest regular shikigami is Raiju, but among the Twelve Heavenly Generals, Byakko is faster. Byakko, who''s large enough for me to ride, doesn''t need instructions from me to know what to do. In the blink of an eye, Byakko disappears and rushes toward the volcanic tortoise.


    "''I''ll support you.''"


    One of Kijin''s special abilities allows her to strengthen the shikigami I summon. For instance, even if Byakko''s strength alone isn''t enough to deal a fatal blow to the volcanic tortoise, with Kijin''s enhancement¡­ it''s like applying a buff in a game.


    "¡­That''s pretty flashy."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Huh?


    : This is getting ridiculous.


    : Is this a kaiju battle?


    : The winner will just become our next enemy.


    : Byakko isn''t an enemy, right?


    Byakko creates metallic blades from the ground with magic, and thanks to Kijin''s enhancement, the blades pierce through the volcanic tortoise''s shell with ease. Pinned by the massive blades emerging from all directions, the volcanic tortoise can''t resist as Byakko bites into its throat.


    "''Now, why don''t you try that spell from earlier?''"


    "¡­I''ll leave the control to you."


    "''That''s why I''m here.''"


    Without Kijin''s prompt, I start compressing lightning magic, disregarding control. I focus solely on power, not caring where the beam might go, but that''s where Kijin comes in to manage it.


    The target, the volcanic tortoise, is already pinned down and has lost interest in me, spitting out molten rocks in a desperate attempt to fight Byakko. So all I need to do is aim and fire.


    "''¡­Well done, as expected.''"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Huh?


    : One-shot, LOL.


    : That''s not something a human should be firing.


    : Apologize to Asagao-chan!


    : EX-rankers are just busted, I swear.


    : LOL.


    : Poor volcanic tortoise.


    : Just subscribed to your channel.


    : Stream every day!


    "Even though the recoil from the shot hurt my shoulder¡­ the comments here are so harsh¡­"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : If you can fire beams, you''re not gonna die from recoil.


    : You did this to yourself.


    : Don''t steal Asagao-chan''s technique and turn it into a stronger version!


    : Do another collab with Asagao!


    : There are unrelated comments popping up here.


    : You''re trending number one on social media.


    Well, I didn''t expect the beam to pierce through the volcanic tortoise and then disintegrate it entirely. Byakko is glaring at me like she almost got caught in the blast, but for now, I''ll consider it a win.


    Still, my shoulder hurts. It''s like shooting a gun one-handed without thinking about the recoil.


    "Oh, thank you for getting me to the top trend!"


    That said, I''m still happy to be trending. It''s not like I crave attention, but it feels good as a human to be recognized by others.


    "''Hehe¡­ finally, your greatness has been revealed to the world¡­ from now on¡ª''"


    "Okay, you can go back now."


    "''Ah, how heartless¡­''"


    Kijin is incredibly useful, but once she starts talking, she doesn''t stop, so I quickly dismissed her.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : How should I feel about a shikigami that simps for its summoner?


    : That was just us, wasn''t it?


    : We were beautiful and simping.


    : That''s what I''d look like if I became a cute girl who simps for my idol. S§×arch* The ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "¡­Please don''t make comments that make it harder to summon Kijin next time."


    Sigh¡­ It''s been a while since I summoned her, but it''s just as exhausting mentally as I remembered. Maybe next time, I''ll just stick to summoning Byakko alone.

 Chapter 39: Thread 4: The EX-Rank Phenomenon

    211: Anonymous Explorer


    The guy who made all other dungeon streamers obsolete.


    212: Anonymous Explorer


    No one else can match going into the lower floors, so it''s understandable.


    213: Anonymous Explorer


    We only need this guy as a dungeon streamer now.


    214: Anonymous Explorer


    But there are people who watch dungeon streams just to see the girls, you know!?


    215: Anonymous Explorer


    In reality, he''s left most dungeon streamers in the dust.


    216: Anonymous Explorer


    First, he collabs with the famous streamer Asagao in the lower floors.


    Second, he streams solo from the deep floors.


    No other streamer can keep up, LOL.


    217: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾216


    The low-tier streamers are probably sulking on social media now.


    218: Anonymous Explorer


    When a famous person appears, they just sulk about it, anyway.


    219: Anonymous Explorer


    Really¡­


    220: Anonymous Explorer


    Why did they think they could beat an EX-rank?


    221: Anonymous Explorer


    The deep floors were more of a hell than I imagined.


    222: Anonymous Explorer


    For streamers, numbers are everything.


    They''re sulking because a newcomer overtook them in the rankings.


    223: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾221


    After seeing that, of course everyone would be satisfied with just the safe middle or lower floors.


    224: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors are safe?


    225: Anonymous Explorer


    Your sense of danger is totally messed up.


    226: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank is what''s messed up.


    227: Anonymous Explorer


    I was admiring the beautiful lake, and then suddenly it turned into a volcanic area¡ªmade me laugh.


    228: Anonymous Explorer


    The environmental changes are so drastic, you''ll catch a cold.


    229: Anonymous Explorer


    You might actually catch one, so stop it.


    230: Anonymous Explorer


    The temperature difference must be insane.


    231: Anonymous Explorer


    The temperature difference between Kisaragi-kun and the viewers is also insane.


    232: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾231


    Isn''t that just because Kisaragi-kun is weird?


    233: Anonymous Explorer


    If he''s hanging out in the deep floors all the time...


    234: Anonymous Explorer


    No wonder he''s lost his mind.


    235: Anonymous Explorer


    Your mind would definitely break.


    236: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you think this will make more people want to become explorers?


    At least, I''ve given up.


    237: Anonymous Explorer


    I think I''ll just stick to the upper floors.


    238: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾237


    You probably don''t even have an explorer license.


    239: Anonymous Explorer


    If the deep floors of Shibuya Dungeon are like that, what about the others?


    240: Anonymous Explorer


    Shibuya Dungeon hasn''t even been fully conquered yet.


    241: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾238


    Are you picking a fight?


    242: Anonymous Explorer


    But the volcanic turtle that appeared in the stream looked incredibly strong.


    243: Anonymous Explorer


    He called it a rare monster.


    244: Anonymous Explorer


    It seems like there aren''t many monsters of that level, though.


    245: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾241


    Oh? Are you getting mad because he told the truth?£Þ£Þ


    246: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾245


    Die.


    247: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾245


    £¾£¾246


    Don''t start a fight here.


    248: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ll ban you.


    249: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder how much a deep-floor magic stone would sell for.


    250: Anonymous Explorer


    I wouldn''t want to go to a place like that even for a billion yen.


    251: Anonymous Explorer


    Exactly.


    252: Anonymous Explorer


    Being an explorer isn''t a job for humans.


    253: Anonymous Explorer


    True that.


    254: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors aren''t so bad, though.


    255: Anonymous Explorer


    There are probably only a handful of people in the world who can explore the deep floors.


    256: Anonymous Explorer


    Even overseas, there are hardly any lower-floor streams.


    257: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun was also talking about deep floors overseas.


    258: Anonymous Explorer


    WDAO is a secretive organization, but I guess they''re doing their job.


    259: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, dungeons are full of state secrets.


    260: Anonymous Explorer


    True that.


    261: Anonymous Explorer


    I want him to stream from overseas dungeons too.


    262: Anonymous Explorer


    But I really want him to conquer Shibuya Dungeon first.


    263: Anonymous Explorer


    Was that a shikigami he used to defeat the volcanic turtle?


    264: Anonymous Explorer


    If he conquers Shibuya Dungeon, he''ll get the Order of Cultural Merit.


    265: Anonymous Explorer


    The Order of Cultural Merit is just for boosting government approval ratings.


    266: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾263


    It was a shikigami.


    267: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the point of getting the Order of Cultural Merit?


    268: Anonymous Explorer


    Shikigami can talk like that?


    269: Anonymous Explorer


    Since he creates them himself, it''s basically like playing with dolls.


    270: Anonymous Explorer


    Who knows?


    271: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾263


    He mentioned "Kijin" and "Byakko," so it''s probably the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    272: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s that?


    273: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t that an Onmyoji thing?


    274: Anonymous Explorer


    Like the shikigami Abe no Seimei controlled?


    275: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾272


    In simple terms, it''s an upgraded shikigami¡ªbasically a group of gods.


    276: Anonymous Explorer


    Did he really summon gods?


    277: Anonymous Explorer


    Are there even gods?


    278: Anonymous Explorer


    With dungeons around, does that even surprise you anymore?


    279: Anonymous Explorer


    A lot of people seem confused, but Onmyoji were more like fortune-tellers than mages.


    They were popular in the Heian period and were basically called Onmyoji.


    The Twelve Heavenly Generals come from a type of divination called "Rikujin Shin-ka," which divides directions into 12 and assigns important gods or divine beasts to each direction.


    Also, the Twelve Heavenly Generals and the Twelve Divine Generals are different.


    The Twelve Heavenly Generals are from Rikujin Shin-ka, originating in China, while the Twelve Divine Generals are from Buddhism, originating in India.


    280: Anonymous Explorer


    I see¡­


    281: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾279


    We''ve got an expert here.


    282: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾279


    So helpful.


    283: Anonymous Explorer


    So, what does that mean?


    284: Anonymous Explorer


    (Confused Cat meme)


    285: Anonymous Explorer


    Kijin is the leader of the Twelve Heavenly Generals, so it''s probably the strongest one.


    286: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t really get it.


    287: Anonymous Explorer


    I just know that Kisaragi-kun is amazing.


    288: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, this is definitely EX-level stuff.


    289: Anonymous Explorer


    Some might recognize Kijin as Tianyi Shen.


    290: Anonymous Explorer


    Is that really true?


    291: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾289


    I have no idea what that is.


    292: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop dropping complicated terms suddenly.


    293: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun¡ª


    Commands gods¡ª


    Strong.


    294: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾293


    This.


    295: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾293


    So clear and simple.


    296: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾293


    Finally, a summary even we short-attention-span people can understand.


    297: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really that helpful?


    298: Anonymous Explorer


    You guys don''t understand anything, do you?


    299: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    300: Anonymous Explorer


    Just knowing he''s "strong" is enough.


    301: Anonymous Explorer


    Yep, that''s good enough.


    302: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, this thread is full of idiots.


    303: Anonymous Explorer


    Why not just summon a bunch of yokai and have a Hyakki Yagyo instead of using the Twelve Heavenly Generals?


    304: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa = Leader of Hyakki Yagyo theory.


    305: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m against this new theory.


    306: Anonymous Explorer


    Was there even a theory before this¡­?


    307: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾304


    You''re banned from the academic community.


    308: Anonymous Explorer


    He was exploring the deep floors of Shibuya Dungeon, so what''s next?


    309: Anonymous Explorer


    Obviously, going beyond the 65th floor.


    310: Anonymous Explorer


    Another trip through hell, huh?


    311: Anonymous Explorer


    Just watching is fine by me.


    312: Anonymous Explorer


    When you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss also gazes into you.


    313: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾312


    Good morning, Nietzsche.


    314: Anonymous Explorer


    Calling a historical figure "Good morning" is hilarious.


    315: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s gotta be blasphemy, right?


    316: Anonymous Explorer


    In this case, "He who fights with monsters should be careful lest he thereby become a monster" is more relevant.


    317: Anonymous Explorer sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    £¾£¾316


    He''s already a monster, so it''s fine.


    318: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s really not fine, though¡­


    319: Anonymous Explorer


    Nietzsche was talking about mental stuff, though.


    320: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t mess around with Beyond Good and Evil.


    321: Anonymous Explorer


    When you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss gazes back at you.


    322: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾321


    Just staring at it, huh.


    323: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾321


    Double take, huh?


    324: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun said he might start streaming requests from the Explorer Association too, lol. [Image]


    325: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾324


    That''s not funny, though?


    326: Anonymous Explorer


    What¡­?


    327: Anonymous Explorer


    Is there anything he won''t stream?


    328: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾324


    So he''s gonna show us not just deep floors but also dungeon anomalies?


    329: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s basically the PR for the Explorer Association at this point.


    330: Anonymous Explorer


    Soon he''ll start posting etiquette guides or something.


    331: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾330


    I''d actually want to see that.


    332: Anonymous Explorer


    "When summoning shikigami, please be mindful of your surroundings."


    333: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾332


    That only applies to you, lol.


    334: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop teaching useless etiquette, lol.


    335: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder if he''ll collab with other dungeon streamers.


    336: Anonymous Explorer


    But there are so few middle-floor streamers.


    337: Anonymous Explorer


    They''d just drag him down, lol.


    338: Anonymous Explorer


    Forget that, just show more of the deep floors.


    339: Anonymous Explorer


    He should team up with Kamishiro Rion in an American dungeon!


    340: Anonymous Explorer


    America would be destroyed.


    341: Anonymous Explorer


    Go to Antarctica.


    342: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s this idea that it''s okay to destroy the Antarctica Dungeon.


    343: Anonymous Explorer


    But the Antarctic Treaty says it''s off-limits.


    344: Anonymous Explorer


    Getting to Antarctica alone is already a huge challenge.


    345: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this guy even thinking?


    346: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably not.


    347: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t think he really thinks much at all.


    348: Anonymous Explorer


    He probably just started streaming because he was bored.


    349: Anonymous Explorer


    He said it''s because it''s trendy.


    350: Anonymous Explorer


    Such a bandwagoner, lol.


    351: Anonymous Explorer


    Bandwagoner (EX).


    352: Anonymous Explorer


    He might be a bandwagoner with streaming, but he''s not with dungeons.


    353: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    354: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rankers are all weirdos.


    355: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course.


    356: Anonymous Explorer


    He said himself that you have to be crazy to be a dungeon explorer.


    357: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop saying unnecessary things.


    358: Anonymous Explorer


    That only applies to those going beyond the lower floors.


    359: Anonymous Explorer


    The upper floors are like a part-time job.


    360: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no real danger involved.


    361: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish he''d come down to Okinawa where I am. I want to be in the stream.


    362: Anonymous Explorer


    Do it yourself, baldy.


    363: Anonymous Explorer


    We should have an off-site meeting when he announces his next stream.


    364: Anonymous Explorer


    Shibuya Dungeon is fine with me.


    365: Anonymous Explorer


    Kofu Dungeon is fine too.


    366: Anonymous Explorer


    Nagoya Dungeon is fine too.


    367: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾366


    There''s no way I''m going to Nagoya Dungeon.


    368: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾366


    Stop casually throwing in something so harsh.


    369: Anonymous Explorer


    Nagoya gets treated so badly, lol.


    370: Anonymous Explorer


    Why so much hate for Nagoya¡­?


    371: Anonymous Explorer


    Go look it up.

 Chapter 40: Summer Break Dilemmas

    "..."


    "What''s wrong? You look so gloomy."


    "...I''ve been thinking that despite rarely coming to school because of dungeons, it''s already the summer break of my third year in high school."


    "Ah¡­"


    In the classroom that had emptied out, I found myself lost in thought, but the time had already passed 1 PM. Today was the closing ceremony for the first semester of our third year. We gathered in the gym, where the principal gave an unnecessarily long speech¡­ and then everything wrapped up before noon. Everyone felt the start of summer vacation and dispersed at once.


    Watching them enjoy their youthful days, I couldn''t help but feel a little hollow, like I was just a corporate drone in the dungeon.


    "But lately, you''ve been coming to school quite often, right?"


    "...Maybe because I''ve made some friends."


    "You mean me? That makes me happy."


    When she gives me that pure smile, it makes me feel weak, so please stop.


    In reality, I never missed school except for public absences, but there were times when I went on overnight dungeon expeditions to Kyushu simply because I didn''t feel like going to school. It was a way to skip class. Well, even if public absences are counted as attendance, it doesn''t mean I''m exempt from regular exams, so I still had to study hard.


    Lately, since I''ve made a friend in Asakawa-san, I''ve been trying to go to school as much as possible. Because of that, Shinano-san teased me by saying, "Kisaragi-kun finally has a youth!"


    "Speaking of summer break¡­"


    "Do you want to go somewhere!?"


    "...What about studying for entrance exams?"


    For a third-year high school student, summer means either studying for exams or finishing the last of your club activities. The fact that she''s asking about going out makes me think Asakawa-san is really an extrovert. For someone like me who either lazes around under the air conditioner or dives into dungeons, such a thought process is unimaginable.


    "Entrance exams, huh¡­"


    When you bring up studying for entrance exams to a third-year high school girl, it usually doesn''t put them in a good mood, but Asakawa-san seems more pensive than upset.


    "You see, I''m a bit conflicted¡­"


    "Conflicted? About your choice of university?"


    "Well, not exactly. I''m wondering if I should go to university or just continue as a dungeon streamer."


    It''s a tough choice, no doubt.


    For someone like me, who already has a solid standing as an EX-rank explorer, there''s no need to go to university at all. The fact that I probably wouldn''t be able to attend regularly, like in high school, is another reason.


    Asakawa-san could likely make a living as an explorer and streamer if she continues as she is. However, the issue is how her parents feel about it. Being a streamer is one thing, but living as an explorer who risks their life is something an ordinary person would consider insane.


    "My parents are supportive, saying I should live the life I want¡­ but I still can''t decide."


    "It''s a major life decision. It''s understandable."


    Well, I never had parents from the start, so it was irrelevant for me, but Asakawa-san isn''t in the same situation.


    "Hey¡­ do you know any explorers who''ve continued even into old age?"


    "My grandma¡­ Jinguji Kaede-san is one."


    "Oh¡­ Japan''s strongest?"


    Now that she mentions it, that nickname does ring a bell. I only remembered her as the fastest explorer.


    "She''s 67 years old this year."


    "Really!? I thought she was younger."


    "Maybe it''s because she''s been an explorer, but she still stands tall and looks quite impressive."


    "Yeah. She''s probably a role model for many women."


    And to think her husband is just a regular person. Can you believe someone could marry such an extraordinary woman and still be considered an ordinary person? Even at 67, she''s strong enough to spar with me head-on.


    "Well, her fighting style is completely different from yours, but¡­ she''s strong."


    "I wonder if I could become like that?"


    "Who knows."


    People born in recent years tend to have a higher potential for magical power. It''s not a hypothesis but a fact. Yet, even in this age, Jinguji Kaede exists as someone whose strength far surpasses recent explorers, like a glitch in the world.


    Well, there are always people who are like glitches, regardless of the era. I''m somewhat aware that I''m one of those people. I know my strength isn''t something I''ve gained through effort but rather a natural talent.


    "That was kind of a strange conversation, huh?"


    "Was it? Isn''t this the kind of conversation close friends have?"


    Whether the topics are specific or vague might depend on the person, but at least for me, I think friends should be able to talk about their future without hesitation.


    "Friends, huh." sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Asakawa-san muttered the word "friends" as if she were savoring it, looking somewhat lonely. Seeing that expression made me want to think deeply about it, but knowing I''m not very perceptive when it comes to people''s feelings, I figured it''s best not to say anything foolish.


    "¡­As I mentioned before, I''m thinking of starting a streaming company."


    "Oh¡­ the one where you''ll come to get me?"


    "Y-Yes¡­ but doesn''t that phrase create some misunderstandings?"


    "It''s fine!"


    No, it''s not fine at all.


    "So, I was thinking of making it a dungeon streaming company¡­ but maybe it would be better to accept other types of streamers too."


    "Why''s that?"


    "Well¡­ I did some research online, and it turns out there aren''t that many dungeon streamers."


    "Oh, you didn''t know?"


    I had no idea.


    I just assumed that since Asakawa-san was doing it, everyone else was too, but I was surprised to find out how few people actually do it. Well, there are a few, but it seems like streams of the top floors or upper floors have become unpopular recently, and they''re struggling.


    "Not everyone can stream from the lower or deep floors like you, Kisaragi-kun¡­ so in that sense, you might be monopolizing the audience."


    "..."


    I can''t deny it.


    "And you''re okay with that?"


    "Are you?"


    Let it go.


    "I really want you to join my company."


    "You mentioned that before."


    "¡­I know it''s a selfish request, but would you consider not going to university and working for me instead?"


    "¡­Is this a proposal?"


    I-I know asking someone to work for you sounds like a proposal, but that''s not what I meant!


    Why is Asakawa-san blushing? If you''re the one teasing, you shouldn''t be embarrassed!


    "W-Well, I wouldn''t mind if it means I get to work with you."


    "With me?"


    "Yes."


    Well, I''m trying to recruit someone close to me, so I can''t really say anything, but is it okay to work for someone just because they''re the boss?


    "Because we''re friends, right?"


    "¡­Yes, Asakawa-san is my friend."


    "I see."


    Why!?


    Why does she seem a little upset when I agree that we''re friends!?


    "It''s okay. I''ll slowly help you become more aware of these things later."


    "M-More aware¡­ of emotions?"


    "Everything, really."


    Uh¡­ is this what they call a woman''s heart? I have no idea how to understand it.

 Chapter 41: Crab Hotpot and Casual Q&A

    "¡­So, it''s time for a strategy meeting."


    : He''s getting used to streaming, huh?


    : This is only his third time.


    : What do you mean "so"?


    : This guy is always so abrupt.


    : Do whatever you want.


    Today, instead of a dungeon stream, I''m streaming from home as a new challenge. Since my plan to hire only dungeon streamers fell through, I thought I might as well consider hiring virtual streamers too. So, I''m thinking of trying out some game streaming in the future.


    "Remember how I mentioned wanting to start a company to manage dungeon streamers?"


    : Did you?


    : I don''t remember.


    : Did he say that?


    : No clue.


    : I think he mentioned it before diving into the deep floors.


    : Ah, yeah¡­ maybe?


    "You guys are so nonchalant."


    : You''re one to talk.


    : You''re the last person who should say that.


    : Kisaragi-kun, really?


    : The master of unplanned actions is speaking?


    I''ve realized what my viewers think of me. Fine, if you want to pick a fight, I''ll take you on, you jerks.


    "So¡­ I recently found out that there are actually very few people who specialize in dungeon streaming."


    : Yeah.


    : We knew that.


    : Wait, you didn''t know?


    : Seriously?


    : I knew it¡­ No planning, huh?


    "That''s why I''m thinking of recruiting people who aren''t just dungeon streamers. Well, I haven''t started the company yet."


    The reality is that there are far fewer dungeon streamers than I imagined. I thought it was more popular because I heard it was trending, but even those who do it aren''t specializing in dungeon streaming. Most are just hanging around the upper or top floors.


    "I think more people who can go to the lower floors should stream."


    : Like you.


    : Go to the deep floors.


    : Fancy room.


    : That TV is huge.


    : Living in such a luxurious place but still unplanned, huh?


    : He''s rich enough to get by without planning.


    "Does the decor of my room even matter?"


    Why are they so interested in my private life?


    "If you''re so curious, I might as well do a cooking stream with the crab I caught in the Takayama Dungeon."


    : That actually sounds interesting, so go ahead.


    : You caught a crab?


    : Is it tasty?


    : Do a cooking stream.


    : Let''s have a cooking and chat stream.


    : Cooking stream it is.


    Fine, now I''m really going to do a crab cooking stream because I''m pissed off.


    Don''t underestimate me. I''m about to cook a crab so luxurious that most people couldn''t afford it in their lifetime, and I won''t even tell you the price.


    : Isn''t that crab the kind that only ends up in high-end restaurants?


    : I think I saw something about Takayama Dungeon crab on TV.


    : Yeah, it made the news when it hit the market recently.


    "¡­"


    : He''s gone quiet, lol.


    : Silence means confirmation.


    : It''s a market price, huh?


    : What''s it worth, in billions?


    "I caught it myself, so it''s free."


    No matter what anyone says, the crab I''m about to eat is free because I caught it myself and just took a leg or two. So, of course, it''s free.


    : Stop trying to push the "free" angle.


    : Free (because he caught it himself).


    : Producer''s direct sale stream.


    : "I caught this myself" (Kisaragi Tsukasa).


    : Producer''s direct sale, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Can I have some too?


    : I''ll resell it.


    "I''ll be eating crab while answering questions, so think of something to ask."


    I''ve given up. This distance between me and the viewers is probably just right¡­ because they''re having fun messing around in the comment section anyway.


    Personally, I think crab tastes best when you keep it simple, like in a crab hotpot. And the best way to finish it off is with rice porridge. A bit of cooking sake, mirin, soy sauce, and Japanese dashi with a splash of ponzu make for a perfect flavor. Add some tofu and cabbage, and you''re done.


    The difference is that this isn''t just any crab hotpot; the crab is so high-end that it''s unbelievably delicious on its own.


    "Ah¡­ eating crab hotpot in an air-conditioned room in summer feels like a luxury."


    : Now I''m hungry.


    : Don''t stream this in the evening.


    : Damn, now I want crab.


    : Snow crab is in season in winter.


    : But red snow crab is good even in summer.


    "You guys can go enjoy some of the more common crab."


    : This guy just started roasting us.


    : Showing his true colors.


    : Stop teasing us with food.


    : Don''t you care about the salarymen working overtime?


    : Food teasing during the rush hour commute, lol, savage.


    Oh, now I can just picture my viewers clenching their teeth, glaring at me with resentment after they were enjoying teasing me earlier.


    "So, have you thought of any questions? I''m taking them now."


    : Is the crab tasty?


    : How tasty is the crab?


    : How much is the crab?


    : Just how good is that crab?


    "I''m not taking any crab-related questions."


    : Huh?


    : That''s the main question!


    : Answer the crab questions!


    : What kind of question filter is that?


    : I''m not answering anything about the crab.


    If you''re that curious, pay for a high-end restaurant meal yourself or catch your own crab in the Takayama Dungeon.


    : Are you dating Asagao-chan?


    : How far have you gone in Shibuya Dungeon?


    : Any dungeons abroad you''d never visit again?


    : Show us your Shikigami.


    : Isn''t dungeon exploring just torture?


    : What do you think of Japan?


    : What''s your rank in school?


    "Alright, I''ll answer them one by one¡­ Am I dating Asagao-san? No, I''m not."


    : She''s already put her personal info out there, so calling her Asakawa-san is fine.


    : She doesn''t seem to care.


    : Everyone knows her real name anyway.


    "Still, I''m being cautious."


    Why is everyone so curious about my relationship with Asakawa-san? To me, she''s just a regular friend, but I guess on the internet, if a guy and a girl are seen walking together, people assume they''re a couple. I get it¡­ as an introvert myself, I think the same when I see guys and girls walking together.


    "Next, Shibuya Dungeon? Hmm¡­ let''s see¡­ I think I got to around the 82nd floor last year."


    : Huh?


    : Didn''t they officially say the highest reached floor was 75?


    : Oh?


    : You''ve done it now.


    "Wait, really? Was it?"


    Crap, I didn''t bother reporting it because it''s a hassle. I haven''t gone to the bottom without reporting, but I''m pretty sure there are a few dungeons where I''ve gone lower than the officially reported highest floor.


    "Next question¡­ dungeons abroad I''d never visit again¡­ Greenland has one, so probably there?"


    : Where?


    : Greenland, lol.


    : That''s more remote than I expected.


    : Why?


    "It''s cold. Even inside the dungeon."


    : Oh¡­


    : What a lame reason.


    : Cold reduces your physical abilities.


    : Do you really have to go to such remote places?


    : Must be tough being EX.


    "No, I went for fun."


    Actually, it''s my dream to visit all the dungeons in the world.


    By the way, Greenland isn''t a country but an autonomous territory of Denmark, so to visit the Greenland Dungeon, you need permission from both Denmark and Greenland.


    "Next¡­ show us your Shikigami? Nope. Moving on¡­ Japan? Ah¡­ still a country that''s slow to react to everything."


    : Just a flat-out "no" and moving on, lol.


    : He just refused, lol.


    : Why the slight negativity towards Japan?


    : Because he''s a slave to the country.


    : Show us the Shikigami.


    : Should an EX really be speaking negatively about the country?


    "Alright, next¡­ school rank? Uh¡­"


    I think I have it in one of my files¡­ how did I do again?


    "Out of 514 students¡­ I ranked 124th. My average score across the five subjects was around 72."


    : Not bad¡­ but not great either.


    : That''s pretty good.


    : Wow, I was 450th out of 500 back in the day.


    : I''m smarter than you.


    : I''m still in school and averaging 84 across five subjects.


    : Hmm, average.


    "Above average is good enough for me."


    I was never particularly good at studying, so just being above average means I''m doing fine. Let''s just leave it at that.


    Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 42: Honorary One of Us

    "So, about that¡­ I''ve been learning a bit more about dungeon streaming lately, but what do regular streamers even do?"


    : Hold on, I''m still savoring the crab.


    : High school boys sure can eat a lot.


    : Just watching made me full.


    : I eat like that too. By the way, I''m 36.


    : Hello, fatty.


    : Fatty checking in.


    : I can''t eat that much anymore.


    "All you guys want to talk about is crab, huh?"


    You must really like crab¡­ Well, I like it too.


    "High school boys don''t eat a lot just because they''re growing. Explorers consume a lot of magic power, so it naturally increases their appetite. Other explorers should understand this."


    : Yeah, I get it.


    : I thought my appetite was dropping in my 20s, but when I started exploring, it came back.


    : So magic power burns calories?


    : Apparently, though no one fully understands it.


    : Is the explorer diet going to become a trend?


    : No way.


    : You can only burn that many calories in the mid to lower floors.


    "You can easily lose weight by fighting non-stop for a few hours in the upper floors too."


    : That''s just because you''re moving around so much!


    : Isn''t it more about fearing for your life?


    : You''d lose weight even without burning magic power.


    Doesn''t seem like it''ll catch on.


    As an EX explorer, I wish more people would become explorers, but it looks like the explorer diet won''t become popular.


    "So, what do regular streamers do?"


    : This guy doesn''t give up.


    : Persistent, huh?


    : No idea.


    : I only watch dungeon streams.


    : Virtual streamers, maybe?


    : Probably gaming?


    Virtual streamers¡­ I suppose starting out as a virtual streamer has a lot of advantages these days.


    "I''ve never watched a virtual stream, so should I check one out?"


    : Switching to a reaction stream, lol.


    : From strategy meeting to cooking, now to video watching.


    : Is there anything he won''t do?


    : He can handle both the lower and deep floors.


    : He''ll do anything, huh?


    I''ve learned from my two previous streams that I can ignore 90% of what the viewers say. These people are here for entertainment, so you don''t get many serious answers. That''s not necessarily bad, but if you want serious responses, it''s better to ask on social media.


    "Do you guys know any famous virtual streamers?"


    : Nope.


    : I don''t watch them.


    : Maybe Torimomo Sasami?


    "¡­What kind of delicious-sounding name is that?"


    Pick a lane¡ªare you thigh meat or breast meat?


    : You just ate some way better crab, didn''t you?


    : Hurry up and watch a clip.


    : A thigh meat stream?


    : I like thigh meat.


    "The fans are called ''Thigh Meat''? So, it really is meat!"


    : She''s a bird-themed virtual streamer.


    : She''s a bird.


    "So, it''s meat!"


    : Stop saying that.


    : Torimomo Sasami, now being called meat by a newbie dungeon streamer.


    : Can''t help it.


    : Even her viewers call her meat.


    Now I''m curious¡­ A streamer who even her viewers call "meat"?


    "Should I just watch a clip from one of her chat streams?"


    : Her chat content is completely different from yours.


    : Wise elder!?


    : Who''s that?


    : Your chat streams are all about crab or dungeons.


    : Not many streams talk about dungeons.


    ''I really love dungeons! I wanted to be an explorer, you know.''


    "¡­Are there a lot of people like this?"


    : I think there are.


    : That''s me.


    : I wanted to be one too.


    : Being an explorer ranks second in elementary school boys'' dream jobs.


    : What''s number one?


    : Doctor.


    : The harsh reality.


    Honestly, I''ve always thought that dungeon exploring isn''t a popular career at all. Most people quit after just dipping their toes into the upper floors. Whether it''s a lack of talent or fear for their lives, the reasons vary, but the people who stick with it are pretty unusual.


    ''But I completely lack the talent to use magic, so it''s really funny that I couldn''t even get an explorer''s license and had to give up.''


    "Talent, huh."


    : Oof.


    : I cried.


    : This stream made me tear up.


    : Kind of a downer.


    "Saying ''talent can be overcome with hard work'' might sound a bit arrogant."


    : That''s what people with minimum talent say.


    : Well, those who are considered talented are usually building on top of that with hard work.


    : It''s hard to understand, but geniuses work way harder than average people.


    : But it''s still about talent.


    : Isn''t your magic talent-based too, Kisaragi-kun?


    "Yeah, true. My Shikigami techniques are talent-based magic, so I''m definitely relying on my natural talent."


    No need to sugarcoat it. I have talent, and that''s why I can use Shikigami techniques and became EX. I can''t lie and say that talent doesn''t matter.


    : But you''ve had a lot of close calls, right?


    : Geniuses and average people will never understand each other.


    : It''s a job where lacking talent could get you killed.


    : But you''re sacrificing yourself for the infrastructure, so thanks for that.


    ''But you know, there''s that UNKNOWN everyone''s been talking about lately? Someone like that is really inspiring, you know?''


    "¡­"


    : Oh, is he going to ignore that?


    : That''s a pretty recent stream. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : This was before Kisaragi-kun started streaming.


    : How do you actually get stronger?


    "I spent every spare moment in dungeons since my first year of high school¡­ because I didn''t have any friends."


    : Oh.


    : Oh.


    : We''re¡­


    : We''re the same.


    : I''m starting to feel a connection here.


    : Are you the type to sit in the corner of the classroom reading?


    "And what''s wrong with reading? Yeah, I''m just an introverted, socially awkward loner."


    : He''s our beacon of hope.


    : Does this mean we can become EX too?


    : I''m starting to feel hopeful.


    : We¡­


    : But he''s better looking than us.


    : So, he''s not really like us.


    : Traitor!


    "Could you not just randomly decide I''m your comrade and then call me a traitor?"


    My looks are pretty average. Not too good, not too bad¡­ at least that''s the one part of my appearance I''m confident about. I''m not as muscular as you''d think.


    : How tall are you?


    : Being an explorer probably keeps you in shape.


    : Yeah, he''s not like us after all.


    : He''s got a beautiful friend like Asagao-chan, so he''s not one of us.


    : Damn.


    : I guess it all comes down to money in the end.


    : Let''s just make him an honorary member of us.


    "I''m around 170¡­ maybe 171 or 172 centimeters."


    : Average.


    : Average.


    : Are you mocking me for being under 170?


    : Oh? I''m 158, I''ll just watch from below.


    : A height inferiority complex parade, lol.


    "I don''t know what to say. I haven''t grown much since I started high school."


    : Hitting 170 in middle school is like being a hero.


    : It''s not that big a deal.


    : You think?


    What was this stream supposed to be about again¡­? I''m still watching Torimomo Sasami''s stream, but it seems like the comment section has lost interest. I appreciate that they''re focusing on me, but since I''m showing a pro''s stream, they should watch that instead.


    In the end, after watching a few more clips and chatting about random things, the stream wrapped up. I didn''t get to do the strategy meeting I initially planned, but I feel like I''ve gotten better at connecting with the viewers, so I think that''s a good sign.


    Even if they''ve given me the ridiculously unflattering title of "Honorary One of Us," if it means I''m getting along with the viewers¡­ well, I guess that''s okay. If I did a stream about introverted, socially awkward experiences, I bet they''d relate.

 Chapter 43: Hachioji Dungeon

    Having started my activities as a streamer, I just finished my third stream yesterday.


    In the first stream, I collaborated with the famous streamer Asakawa-san to show the lower floors, and in the second, I revealed some of the deep floors that almost no one knows about. For the third stream, I decided to try something completely different, a chat stream which turned out to be surprisingly popular.


    To be honest, I didn''t really care whether my numbers grew or not, but after interacting with viewers as a streamer, I found it more enjoyable than expected... and now I want to engage with more people.


    "And so¡­ I''m thinking of increasing the frequency of my streams."


    "¡­Do whatever you like, I guess?"


    Asakawa-san seems a bit taken aback, maybe even a little exasperated, as she realizes just how into streaming I''ve gotten.


    Though school is on summer break, I still meet with Asakawa-san regularly in cafes like this one since I''m her mentor. That said, this is actually our first meetup since the break started, as it hasn''t even been a week.


    "Recently, you''ve been bouncing between the mid and lower floors for training, right?"


    "You¡­ you sure know a lot."


    "I watch your streams regularly, after all."


    Since I''ve taken on the role of Asakawa-san''s mentor, I make sure to keep an eye on how she''s doing by watching her streams. This is something I''ve learned from my own experience of being left to fend for myself by my grandmother.


    "Are you going to stream today too?"


    "I''m¡­ still deciding."


    "But you said you''d increase the frequency¡­"


    "Well, I have work today."


    Apparently, there''s been a persistent magical anomaly detected since yesterday with no clear source, so I''ve been called in as an EX to investigate. It could take until tomorrow or even longer.


    "I''m heading to the Hachioji Dungeon."


    "Hachioji, huh¡­ I don''t think I''ve ever been there."


    "Really? It''s not that dangerous, so I recommend it."


    "When you recommend something, Tsu¡­"


    Wait, she doesn''t trust me? S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Is she still holding a grudge because I recommended the lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon, saying they weren''t that dangerous?


    "What''s the Hachioji Dungeon like?"


    "It''s a dungeon with no real appeal."


    "¡­Huh?"


    "It''s not particularly dangerous, nor does it produce any valuable resources. It''s perpetually empty, making it a great place to train without being noticed."


    I think it''s a dungeon not worth visiting unless you have a specific job there. There''s really nothing of value there. Even the number of monsters is low, making it a poor source for magic stones. Honestly, it''s just a featureless place. Sorry to anyone who lives in Hachioji, but the Hachioji Dungeon is seriously lacking in value.


    "Still, it''s curious that no one has ever made it to the lowest level."


    "¡­Maybe that''s just because there are so few people."


    "Well, that''s part of it."


    To delve a bit deeper¡­ maybe no one is truly interested in fully exploring the dungeon. The value of magic stones obtained from the mid floors is enough for a comfortable life, so most people don''t bother pushing forward. Even in the deep floors of the Shibuya Dungeon, only EX explorers like me and a few S-rank explorers seriously aim to conquer them.


    Most A-rank explorers are content with the lower and mid floors.


    Dungeons, which once were complete mysteries to humanity, are becoming something familiar. It''s easy to blame capitalism for this, but it''s a rather troubling situation.


    What if¡­ just what if we continue to leave dungeons unconquered? What will happen to the monsters that continue to accumulate in the deep floors? If the theory that deep-floor monsters become stronger by preying on each other holds true¡­ what if one of these endlessly powerful monsters emerges on the surface? Can we really guarantee that won''t happen?


    "Ugh¡­ it''s depressing."


    "Wh-what''s wrong all of a sudden?"


    "It''s nothing."


    This has nothing to do with Asakawa-san right now.


    Despite all my criticism, the Hachioji Dungeon is actually one of the dungeons I''d recommend for beginners.


    "So, what floor are you dealing with?"


    "They say it''s in the mid floors, but the exact location is unclear."


    "Okay. Let me know if you find out more¡­ I''ll be holed up there for about three days, even if nothing happens."


    "Th-three days!?"


    The number of people entering the dungeon is low, and the number of monsters appearing is about half that of the Shibuya Dungeon. Their strength is also questionable, making it hard to even call it the mid floors. The environment is simple, with well-paved roads and few obstacles blocking the view. Looking at it, I sometimes think dungeons might just be supernatural beings'' way of killing time.


    "Kochin."


    I spread out the sleeping bag I brought and lie down on the floor of the 30th level, the midpoint of the mid floors.


    The Shikigami I summoned is Kochin, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. It''s a transparent snake with a body of magic power, possessing no physical form. Kochin is a special snake responsible for guarding the capital, but the Kochin I summon from the Twelve Heavenly Generals is a particularly powerful Shikigami specializing in barrier techniques.


    As long as Kochin is summoned, no monsters can approach the area near where I''m lying down in my sleeping bag. While Kochin has no offensive abilities, its barrier techniques are so powerful that they more than make up for it.


    The ongoing magical anomaly in the Hachioji Dungeon isn''t something new. When magical anomalies occur, something unusual usually happens, but the timing is never clear. That''s why I end up having to spend a lot of time like this.


    The magical anomaly detected in the Hachioji Dungeon this time was measured at -7. When the magical anomaly''s value increases, it usually indicates the appearance of monsters stronger than those appropriate for the level. However, when the value decreases, it typically means¡­ a mass outbreak of monsters.


    While this is still a hypothesis, it''s generally believed that magic circulates within the dungeon, condensing into magic stones that serve as the core for monsters. According to this theory, a higher magic value would produce stronger monsters, while a lower magic value would result in a greater number of monsters.


    There''s also speculation that the circulating magic is absorbed from dead monsters or from the magic released by people who enter the dungeon, but this isn''t certain. If the previous theory is correct, though, then collecting magic stones would gradually reduce the dungeon''s magic power.


    "¡­Hmm?"


    While lost in thought, I noticed that within just a few hours, a considerable number of monsters had gathered outside the barrier created by Kochin. While this is a common sight in the Shibuya Dungeon, it''s rare in the Hachioji Dungeon. The fact that there are so many monsters here must mean this really is a magical anomaly.


    Just as I was thinking that, my phone rang.


    ''The dungeon''s magic level is rapidly decreasing!''


    "¡­It''s about to start, isn''t it?"


    ''Please be careful!''


    If the magic level is dropping, it means a large number of monsters have been spawned somewhere. Even if there are a hundred or five hundred monsters in the mid floors of the Hachioji Dungeon, it doesn''t make much difference to me.


    "Raiju."


    I''ll crush them with overwhelming speed.

 Chapter 44: Collab With a Vtuber?

    When a mass outbreak of monsters occurs, the first to be noticed are always the fastest ones. If all the monsters were born in the same place at the same time, it''s only natural that the fastest ones would arrive first. Not that it makes much difference, though.


    Apparently, the Association''s prediction was right on target. The mass outbreak this time seems to have happened in the lower section of the middle floors. In other words, the monsters will conveniently stop right where I''m lying down, fiddling with my smartphone on the 30th floor. If it had been on the 25th floor instead, I''d be running all over the place.


    That would''ve been a huge hassle, so I hope the Association improves its accuracy or increases its personnel.


    The first monsters to charge up the stairs were several types of dog-like creatures. As expected, regardless of size, dog-type monsters are always fast. Just to be safe, I summoned "Hashihime" to block the stairs leading to the 29th floor, and I''ll take care of all the monsters on the 30th floor. Not that any of the monsters will escape in this perfectly flat area of the Hachioji Dungeon.


    "Komainu."


    Raij¨± had already rushed forward, swiftly annihilating the oncoming monsters, but with more coming from behind, it wouldn''t have enough hands¡ªwell, paws¡ªto handle them all.


    I summoned Komainu, a pair of guardian beasts often seen at shrines and temples. The Komainu I summon, however, are not the cute, small statues seen at shrines, but rather massive beasts the size of tigers.


    "I''ll leave the ones Raij¨± misses to you."


    With that simple command, the pair of Komainu moved in perfect sync, ready to act.


    That reminds me¡ªsome time ago, I was browsing a forum where people were talking about me, and someone suggested that if I summoned enough monsters, I could create a literal "Night Parade of One Hundred Demons." Normally, I don''t summon that many because there aren''t enough monsters to warrant it.


    If I encounter an enemy that my usual two or three familiars can''t handle, I''ll just summon one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. But still... that idea stuck with me.


    "Onmoraki. Nue."


    With this, I''d summoned Hashihime, Raij¨±, Komainu, Onmoraki, and Nue. Quite a number of them, yet I still had plenty of magic power left. I had Onmoraki handle any flying monsters, while Nue didn''t need specific orders¡ªjust like Raij¨±, it would act as a sort of free-roaming attacker.


    No matter how weak the monsters are, a mass outbreak can overwhelm an explorer if they don''t have enough resources. But for someone like me, who can endlessly summon reinforcements, completing the Association''s request is a breeze. Basically, I just leave everything to my shikigami, and there''s nothing for me to do... which means I''m bored.


    Since I''m bored, I might as well watch something on my phone. As I''m still learning about being a streamer, all my free time has been dedicated to watching other streams.


    "Hmm... is this Tori Momo Sasami? Streaming live this late at night... I guess she does this full-time."


    Well, for a popular streamer belonging to a big agency like her, it makes sense that this would be her full-time job. Either way, since I''ve got nothing else to do, I''ll watch for a bit.


    By the way, I had thought about streaming this magic anomaly event, but I figured a stream of my shikigami simply wiping out monsters on the middle floors wouldn''t be entertaining at all. Maybe I''ll just take a picture and post it on social media instead.


    "Tonight''s a late-night chat stream... Good work today, everyone."


    : Momo-niku''s here!


    : I''m craving fried chicken now.


    : Don''t eat fried chicken this late at night.


    : You''ll gain weight.


    : So watching Momo-niku streams late at night makes you gain weight.


    : Q.E.D... we''ve proven it.


    "Please don''t gain weight from watching my stream!"


    This kind of casual distance between the streamer and audience seems to work well.


    As expected from a popular streamer, there''s a lot to learn. I should take a page from her book and find a way to get more people interested... and expose them to the hellish reality of the deep floors.


    "So, what should we talk about tonight?"


    : Talk about Kisaragi-kun.


    : That game you mentioned.


    : Did you go to the new game launch event? S~ea??h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Say something about the deep floors of the dungeon.


    : Is it too late to aim for becoming a dungeon explorer?


    : Kisaragi-kun was watching your clips the other day.


    : Let''s talk dungeons.


    "You all really love dungeons, huh? Wait, what!? Kisaragi-kun was watching my clips!?"


    : Yeah, for real.


    : He watched them after eating crab.


    : He was having a crab hotpot.


    : Right after the crab hotpot stream.


    : He was mostly just chatting while watching, though.


    "I saw the crab hotpot clips on social media... but I didn''t know he watched my clips after that. It feels kind of nice, like being noticed by a celebrity, doesn''t it?"


    Noticed by a celebrity?


    Is "being noticed" a phrase used for anyone other than children?


    : Kisaragi''s streams feel pretty close and personal, like he knows us.


    : Well, he is a newbie streamer.


    : When he heard your name, he said it sounded delicious¡ªlike food.


    "I won''t deny it. When my manager first told me, ''Your character is Tori Momo Sasami,'' I thought the same thing¡ªmake up your mind, am I chicken thighs or tenderloins?"


    : Relatable.


    : Decide already!


    : Is chicken thigh from bird-people delicious?


    : Probably.


    : Definitely delicious.


    : Kisaragi said that anyone could become an explorer if they''re willing to nearly die over and over.


    "Don''t do that¡ªyou''ll literally die. Okay, tonight''s chat theme will be dungeon-related, especially about streaming dungeons."


    : Has to be Asagao-chan.


    : Asagao, hands down.


    : Kisaragi gets more viewers, though.


    : A lot of international fans.


    : He''s got a huge overseas fanbase.


    "Asagao-chan is cute, strong, and young... she''s dazzling, right? Kisaragi-kun''s global popularity is impressive... well, no one else streams from the deep floors, so it''s no wonder."


    She knows more about dungeons than I thought. From her earlier stream clips, it seemed like she just admired dungeon explorers, but maybe she''s been doing more research because she hasn''t fully given up on the idea.


    "Still... nobody expected the deep floors to be such hell."


    : Most of the pictures we''ve seen were just dim caves.


    : There aren''t many clear photos of the deep floors.


    : First time seeing the Shibuya Dungeon''s deep floors like that.


    : I''ve seen photos of deep floors in overseas textbooks, though.


    : When the lake suddenly turned into a volcano, that was wild.


    "It wasn''t a laughing matter, but Kisaragi-kun wasn''t exaggerating when he called it hell."


    : Watching it makes me question why anyone would ever attempt it.


    : It''s enough to make me give up.


    : Kisaragi''s strength is on a whole other level.


    : I only knew EX-rank was strong, but now I really get it.


    : There are three others as strong as him? Unreal.


    Seeing people talk about me in real time is kind of embarrassing. I don''t usually look myself up online, but hearing their opinions like this makes me feel awkward.


    "Wouldn''t it be cool to do a chat collab with Kisaragi-kun someday? Even just a voice chat, to ask him all kinds of things?"


    : I think it''d be great.


    : He''s not with a company, so it''s possible.


    : But he''s a guy.


    : Yeah, but still a guy.


    : Do a collab with Kamishiro Rion instead.


    : Honestly, I just want to hear more about the deep floors.


    : Who cares if it''s a guy, we just want dungeon stories.


    They''re saying all sorts of things, but I''d be worried about what people might say if I collabed with a popular corporate-affiliated virtual streamer. Even if they''re not marketed as idols, people still get weird about male-female interactions.


    As for the suggestion to collab with Kamishiro Rion¡ªlet me give you some advice: don''t. That guy is impossible to have a coherent conversation with.

 Chapter 45: Kisaragi Tsukasa and Kamishiro Rion

    "The whole debate about who UNKNOWN really was, and nobody expected him to be a high schooler, right?"


    : Yeah, totally.


    : Some people speculated, but it got dismissed as impossible.


    : When he first appeared a year ago, there was talk about him being a high schooler.


    : I never thought he''d actually be a teenager.


    : Talent really is a thing, huh?


    : At that age, carrying the weight of a whole nation on his shoulders.


    "Must be tough... although there are EXs like Kamishiro-chan, who just wander around doing whatever they want."


    : That''s just how it is.


    : Free spirit.


    : She doesn''t have the EX mindset, so it can''t be helped.


    : She posted another pic from a baseball game the other day.


    : She really loves baseball, huh?


    Kamishiro Rion... Maybe I should follow her on social media. We''re not exactly strangers, after all. We have a weird friendship, built on beating each other up in battle. She reaches out to me sometimes, so I guess we''re close.


    Still, this is what virtual streamer chats are like. I thought the comment section would be more hyped, like an idol concert, but maybe this is just Tori Momo Sasami''s style. Or maybe all virtual streamers do this? Do the ones selling an idol image even do chat streams?


    "When I watch Kisaragi-kun''s streams, it kind of makes me want to become an explorer again."


    : Same here.


    : He''s so cool. S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : I totally get the admiration.


    : If you''re a guy, aim to be the strongest.


    : Watching him makes me want to be an explorer too.


    : He''s like a hero.


    "So I got curious and checked my magic power level for the first time in a while... and it had actually increased a bit! It really shows how important daily training is."


    : Magic power is like muscle.


    : If you don''t train every day, it won''t change.


    : That''s why explorers get stronger magic over time.


    : Do a training stream!


    : Are you planning to become an explorer?


    "Who knows? Streaming keeps me pretty busy."


    I don''t know how old Tori Momo Sasami is, but it''s impressive that she''s been training consistently enough to see a visible increase in her magic power. The comment section isn''t making a big deal out of it, but if you want to increase your magic power without crazy dungeon training, you''d need to exercise like you''re running a marathon every day.


    That shows just how passionate she is about dungeons.


    Grrr...


    "Huh? Oh, sorry."


    I had gotten so absorbed in the stream that I didn''t notice Raij¨± had come back. Right, I was supposed to be handling the magic anomaly in Hachioji Dungeon. Raij¨±''s returned, but it seems like there are still monsters left. Either there were more than I thought, or it hasn''t been that long. Probably the latter.


    "Guess I should help out a little too."


    I could''ve left everything to my shikigami, but watching the stream and hearing someone admire dungeon explorers made me feel like I needed to step up my game. If these streams can inspire more people to become explorers, that would be great.


    "Good work out there."


    "I''ve cleared everything out. It should be fine now."


    The monster cleanup was quick once I jumped in. The monsters in Hachioji Dungeon aren''t particularly strong, and this was just the middle floors, so there was never any real threat. Now my mind was occupied with thoughts of Tori Momo Sasami''s stream and my own future plans. I should start preparing to launch the company soon.


    School''s on summer break, and once August ends, they''ll probably start talking about future plans in September. Can I just put "CEO" on the form?


    "Tsu-kun! It''s been a while!"


    ...Why is she here?


    Maybe it''s my fault for being distracted while walking, but I could feel my face tense up when this brown-haired woman suddenly hugged me.


    "I''ve told you to stop calling me Tsu-kun."


    "But Tsu-kun is Tsu-kun, right?"


    She calls me Tsu-kun because of my name, Tsukasa. I might have been guilty of giving others random nicknames too, but being called Tsu-kun feels a bit like being given a nickname I didn''t ask for.


    "Why are you in Japan, Kamishiro Rion?"


    "Eh, I got bored of America!"


    Can I hit her?


    Arguing at the entrance to the Hachioji Dungeon didn''t seem appropriate, so I ended up taking the train with her to Shibuya. But even during the ride, Kamishiro kept up her relentless chatter. She asked if I had a girlfriend, whether it was true I started dungeon streaming, thanked me for following her on social media, and gave unsolicited advice about dating as a high schooler. It was infuriating.


    Now that I''ve gained some recognition, and Kamishiro is way more famous than me, it wasn''t long before people on the train started to notice us.


    "Isn''t that Kamishiro Rion?"


    "Who''s next to her?"


    "That''s Kisaragi Tsukasa! The EX known as UNKNOWN!"


    "Wait, so there are two EXs here!?"


    "No way, that''s insane!"


    "I''m gonna go get an autograph."


    "Me too."


    "I want a handshake."


    "Wow, Tsu-kun, you''re famous now too! You''re okay with autographs and handshakes, right?"


    "I''m not an idol. I''m not doing that."


    "Aw, you''re still so serious."


    "You''re just way too carefree."


    "She''s the lazy older sister, and he''s the responsible younger brother."


    "They totally look like siblings."


    "Yeah, the little brother gets dragged around by the big sister."


    I''m nobody''s little brother. I might be pretending not to hear, but I hear everything. I''d rather die than be the younger brother of this chaotic woman.


    "Hey, is Asakawa-chan your girlfriend?"


    "No, she''s a friend."


    "A friend? Tsu-kun made a friend!"


    "I''ll hit you."


    "I''m just so happy for you... I really am!"


    God, she''s annoying... I''m starting to understand what it feels like to have an obnoxious older sibling.


    "So, anything new lately?"


    "Just tired from the constant understaffing."


    "Same old, huh... I wonder why the Japanese government isn''t doing more."


    "If it were that easy, it wouldn''t be a problem. Besides, it''s not like the government can just ask people to take on a job where they risk their lives."


    "But they had no problem sending people to war to die."


    "Different times."


    Thanks to dungeons, the world hasn''t seen any major wars in the past hundred years, just minor skirmishes here and there. The existence of explorers has probably upset the balance of power between nations, which is why WDAO was created in the first place.


    "If high school Tsu-kun is working this hard, I guess I need to step up as your older sister."


    "Aren''t you still in university?"


    "Huh? I dropped out. Got bored."


    "Can I please hit you? Maybe it''ll fix some of that stupidity?"


    "That''s so mean!"


    The real problem is your brain, not me.

 Chapter 46: Kamishiro Crashes My Dungeon Stream

    "The day after running into Kamishiro Rion, I was getting ready for a regular stream in Shibuya Dungeon when, for some reason, Kamishiro was waiting for me, eager to jump in."


    "Why are you here?"


    "I wanted to be in Tsu-kun''s stream!"


    "...That''s fine, I guess, but hasn''t the Association said anything to you?"


    "They complain every day."


    "Sigh..."


    Well, of course, they''d have something to say. She''s an EX who suddenly said she was going to study abroad in America and took off. Anyone could''ve guessed that the Association wouldn''t just ignore that. She must have been reprimanded, but apparently, she hasn''t learned her lesson. Probably the only one who could seriously scold her would be my grandma.


    "So, let''s start the stream!"


    As she turned back to smile at me, she blasted away some lower-level monsters with small fireballs. Kamishiro Rion''s magic power is as absurd as ever.


    "Uh... I was planning to just stream some regular deep-floor content today..."


    : Morning!


    : Thanks for streaming so early.


    : Loving the summer morning grind.


    : What do you mean by ''regular''?


    : Streaming deep floors isn''t exactly ''normal.''


    They''re saying all kinds of things, but I''ll just ignore most of it. For me, deep-floor dives are normal, but streaming is still a challenge.


    "So yeah, I was planning to stream regularly, but... well..."


    : Oh? What''s up?


    : Why so hesitant?


    : The introvert side is showing.


    : He''s back to being one of us.


    : One of us.


    : Truly, one of us.


    "So... an unexpected guest is joining today, and, uh... I''m really not a fan of this person."


    "What? Tsu-kun, are you saying you don''t like me?"


    "That''s exactly what I''m saying."


    : What!?


    : Who is it? sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : I don''t see anyone on screen.


    : Who''s Tsu-kun?


    : It''s a girl!


    : Another girl collab?


    : You''re betraying us.


    : We can''t let this stand.


    Before I could introduce her, Kamishiro popped onto the screen, smiling straight at the camera.


    "Hey, everyone! It''s me, dungeon explorer idol Kamishiro Rion!"


    : What!?


    : This stream just became legendary.


    : Two EXs on screen is too much information.


    : This is the real deal.


    : She''s done streams before, right? (I think)


    : She was missing, wasn''t she? Wasn''t she in America?


    "Hmm, how do I check the comments again?"


    "Please just be quiet."


    "Wow, harsh!"


    : LOL


    : LOL


    : I think we get the relationship now.


    : This is too funny.


    : Was his silence during deep-floor streams just to hide how hot his collab partner was?


    : Nah, he was just being lazy.


    : If she can''t even check comments, why is she streaming?


    I''m probably going to catch some flak for this, but the stream is blowing up even more than when I collaborated with Asagao. Despite it being early morning¡ªlikely during work hours for a lot of people¡ªthe viewer count is massive. Well, Kamishiro is famous worldwide, so it makes sense.


    "I can''t believe Tsu-kun has friends, and even his viewers are so friendly... I''m so happy for you!"


    "I don''t remember you raising me."


    If anything, I remember cleaning up after her messes.


    : Are they siblings?


    : LOL


    : This is a mess.


    : Can this stream even keep going like this?


    "Can it keep going? Well, this staircase leads to the 68th floor."


    : Wait, what?


    : You''re already on the deep floors?


    : LOL


    : Just casually strolling to the deep floors.


    : Don''t play around on the way to the deep floors!


    Hey, I''m not the one messing around here. It''s Kamishiro. She''s always prioritizing her feelings over everything else, acting on impulse without any forethought.


    "So this many viewers show up for a deep-floor stream, huh? I had no idea."


    "You''ve streamed deep floors before, haven''t you? Oh, never mind."


    "Huh? Why?"


    : Fair enough.


    : She didn''t even interact with comments back then.


    : Yeah, it was a one-off stream that ended in silence.


    : We never even knew what floor she got to.


    "What floor was that again?"


    "You''re so sloppy."


    "You already know, don''t you?"


    "I do, but still."


    That''s not the point. Just because you know something doesn''t mean you should be this sloppy about it.


    : What even is this place?


    : A desert, obviously.


    : What?


    : Descended the stairs, and it''s a desert now.


    : LOL


    : Makes no sense.


    "Uh... this is the 68th floor."


    "It''s always so hot here..."


    "I''m planning to go up to the 75th floor today."


    "Why such a specific number?"


    "Apparently, it''s the official highest floor reached."


    "But I made it to the 80th floor last year."


    : What!?


    : Stop casually surpassing official records.


    : EXs should report how far they go.


    : There''s no way to verify without proof, so these self-reports mean nothing.


    : Isn''t that why he''s streaming?


    "I don''t care about breaking records, but it''s been years since anyone''s pushed past the 75th floor, so I figured I should."


    "Huh, neat."


    : Show some interest!


    : Maybe EXs are why the official records haven''t been updated.


    : True, that tracks.


    : This stream is hilarious in how out of touch it is.


    The 75th-floor record was set years ago by an S-rank party. I was planning on tackling it solo, but Kamishiro just tagged along. Given the massive viewer turnout, though, maybe it''s not such a bad thing she came along.


    "This desert area is pretty long... let''s move quickly."


    "Why not use Kirin?"


    "No way. What''s the point of a live stream if we just zip through the desert on Kirin?"


    That would be just like every other expedition. There''s nothing entertaining about that for viewers.


    "Huh, okay."


    "It''s that lack of awareness that makes you the ''Dungeon Destroyer.''"


    "How is that even related?"


    : Kisaragi''s being even more sarcastic than usual, lol.


    : Must be really bad.


    : He did say she''s a free spirit.


    : She definitely fits the description.


    "Hey, there''s a Sand Fish!"


    "Yep, it''s coming this way."


    Despite the name, Sand Fish refers to schools of fish that swim through the sand. But each fish is as large as a person, making them a serious threat. What''s worse, Sand Fish always move in large groups, ranging from 50 to over 100 at a time.


    "How many are there?"


    "Let''s see... looks like about 150?"


    "Wow..."


    : Don''t just say ''wow'' like it''s nothing.


    : 150 is insane.


    : That''s a nightmare (angry).


    : It''s the deep floors. What do you expect?


    : Desert zones are terrifying.


    : Isn''t this super dangerous?


    "I''ll just wipe them out, then."


    Original content from M-VL-emp,yr


    With a smile, Kamishiro started drawing a massive magic circle, not bothering to consider her surroundings. She specializes in advanced, high-powered magic that nobody else can handle, and her spells are incomparable to mine.


    The sand dunes, along with the entire school of Sand Fish, were obliterated in a single, reckless strike, sending a huge cloud of sand into the air. With this level of destruction, I doubt there''s anything left alive.


    : Yeah, she''s an EX after all.


    : It''s just the way things are.


    : Honestly, I''m speechless.


    : So this is what an EX is like.


    : I wanted to believe Kisaragi was the weird one.


    : But nope.


    : Monsters really do attract monsters.


    : Birds of a feather flock together.


    Judging from the comments, everyone seems to think I''m just as bad as Kamishiro. My magic is way cuter compared to hers, though. They should realize that after seeing this.

 Chapter 47: Deep Floor Chaos

    "Even though it''s called a dungeon''s deep floors, not every dungeon''s environment changes so frequently. On a global scale, Shibuya Dungeon is quite peculiar, constantly shifting its environments.


    On the other hand, the Greenland Dungeon I mentioned in a previous stream is an example of one where the environment doesn''t change at all, it''s a frozen cave from the top floor all the way down to the deep floors."


    The desert area of Shibuya Dungeon starts at the 68th floor and continues all the way to the 74th floor, just one level below the officially recognized highest floor. There are no obstacles, no artificial structures, just a wide expanse of desert. It''s the kind of place that wears you down simply by walking, and if you''re thinking about the return journey, it''s a pretty unfair dungeon for explorers. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Well, only for normal explorers.


    "Uh... aren''t you going to say anything?"


    "About... walking in the desert?"


    : Explain this, please.


    : Something clearly isn''t right.


    : Typical EX behavior¡­


    : Do your job.


    : You''re out of touch, Kisaragi.


    : Get it together, man.


    "It''s just a silent desert walk stream. Please enjoy the ambient sounds of the desert and the occasional monster fight."


    : That''s not the issue here.


    : That''s technically correct, but still wrong.


    : No. Just no.


    : What is this guy doing?


    : Is this even a valid stream?


    I don''t get what they''re complaining about. Didn''t everyone say they wanted to see the deep floors? So now I''m walking through the desert, showing it off, while Kamishiro casually blows away any monsters that approach us with magic. What''s the problem?


    Kamishiro and I are walking with umbrellas in the desert, so I don''t really understand why the viewers are making such a fuss.


    : Why is it raining in the desert?


    : Why are you guys holding umbrellas?


    : Are these two serious?


    : They''ve lost it.


    : Our "honorary fellow" doesn''t have any common sense.


    : In a way, they truly are honorary members of our club.


    "Rain? I''m making it rain, obviously."


    I glance back at the silver-haired, dark-eyed beauty walking behind me.


    ''Master, you could''ve explained that earlier.''


    "Was it necessary?"


    The beauty behind me is Tenk¨±, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals, a shikigami with the ability to control the weather. Since the desert is hot, I had her summon rain to keep things cool. I didn''t think it needed an explanation.


    "...It was hot, so I made it rain."


    "Yeah, that''s right."


    : That''s not the point here!


    : It shouldn''t be raining in the first place!


    : The fact that you can just summon rain is the issue!


    : Where did those umbrellas even come from?


    : Casually controlling the weather like it''s no big deal.


    : Typical EX behavior. (N-th time)


    "Is this really something to make a big deal about?"


    "I don''t think so. It was hot, so you made it rain. If it''s raining, the desert''s not so bad."


    : The problem is that you can make it rain!


    : This level of absurdity¡­


    : I give up.


    : It''s impossible for monsters to understand human problems.


    I''m not using some over-the-top advanced magic to summon the rain. I''m just having a shikigami do it for me. Can''t they at least accept that much? I mean, if they start complaining about this, wait until they see the real battles with the deep-floor monsters¡ªthat''s where things really get insane.


    "Huh?"


    "Hm?"


    While tilting my head as I read the comments, Kamishiro''s voice caught my attention. I looked up to see a giant scorpion with a shiny metallic sheen crawling toward us.


    : What the!?


    : Gross.


    : Where did that even come from?


    : Isn''t that thing huge?


    : This is way too dangerous!


    "It must''ve been slowly creeping up on us. This scorpion can reflect light and camouflage itself with its surroundings."


    "Really?"


    "...How do you not know that?"


    "I''ve never really cared."


    Ugh, my head hurts.


    Kamishiro has explored deep floors in countless dungeons, yet she''s completely clueless about the monsters. Her approach has always been to just blow up any monsters she encounters with overwhelming magic¡ªno real strategy, just brute force.


    : Show some interest in the monsters.


    : The fact that it can camouflage at that size is terrifying.


    : Why did it stop camouflaging?


    : That scorpion is scary as hell.


    : It looks massive and tough.


    "Maybe the rain made it stop camouflaging? After all, it never rains in the desert, so..."


    : Don''t say that when you''re the one making it rain!


    : It''s literally raining right now!


    : How about putting the umbrella away before making that point?


    : Zero self-awareness, lol.


    : Classic Kisaragi.


    : We''ve come to understand this.


    : Kisaragi is casually reckless.


    "It''s coming."


    Of course, monsters don''t care about our commentary. Whether we''re checking comments or holding umbrellas, once they spot us, they attack.


    This scorpion... I doubt it''s been officially named, considering how few people have encountered it. While it uses its massive size for brute force attacks, it isn''t venomous, so it''s not particularly dangerous.


    As the scorpion charged toward us, Kamishiro fired a fire-based spell at it, like a flamethrower rather than a beam. But the scorpion kept advancing despite the flames, closing the gap.


    : This is insane.


    : This is wild.


    : The chat is too calm, lol.


    : But there''s no way they''ll lose.


    : True, it''s only the 74th floor.


    "...It looks like its joints are pretty tough."


    "Then maybe you should think a little before attacking¡ª"


    "¡ªMore firepower, then!"


    Without listening to a word I said, Kamishiro unleashed one of her signature high-powered spells without hesitation. The magic instantly froze the desert floor, and the rain we''d summoned turned into hail. I manipulated the wind to send the hail crashing into the scorpion''s body.


    With the ground frozen solid, the scorpion seemed to recognize us as a legitimate threat and stopped charging headlong at us. Instead, it maintained a cautious distance, sizing us up.


    "Can you handle it?"


    "You''re just leaving it to me?"


    "Well, I could do it if you want."


    : Do they not feel threatened at all?


    : Ugh, this is frustrating.


    Thank you for reading on m v le_mpyr


    : They''re too relaxed.


    : Isn''t this scorpion pretty strong?


    "If you compress your magic, you should be able to pierce through it."


    "...Compressed magic."


    Asagao had developed a technique for that, but I wonder if Kamishiro can use it too.


    "It''s something they''ve been researching in America. The idea of compressing magic has been around for a long time, but apparently, there haven''t been many people with the talent to actually do it."


    "Asagao can do it."


    "Really? I''d love to meet her sometime."


    With a smile, Kamishiro began compressing her typically overpowering magic. Normally, her spells are strong enough to cause a dungeon collapse with ease, but now she was shrinking it down to an unbelievable size.


    "This is wind magic."


    Kamishiro-san''s wind magic was released from his hand along with a sound that tore through the air, and the invisible blade easily sliced ??through the scorpion''s metallic shell as if it was butter.

 Chapter 48: When Dragons Fly and Rains Fall

    "Even though they''re called dungeon floors, not all dungeons change environments often. Shibuya Dungeon stands out globally for constantly shifting, while something like the Greenland Dungeon stays frozen from top to bottom with no changes.


    The desert area in Shibuya Dungeon starts at the 68th floor and stretches to the 74th. It''s just an endless, open desert with nothing in sight¡ªno structures, no obstacles. The kind of place that saps your stamina just by walking. A nightmare for regular explorers, especially considering the trip back."


    "Uh¡­ aren''t you going to say anything?"


    "About walking through the desert?"


    : Seriously, explain this.


    : Something clearly isn''t right here.


    : This is why EXs are in their own world...


    : Do your job properly.


    : You''ve completely lost touch, Kisaragi.


    : Get a grip, man.


    "This is just a silent desert walk stream. For a while, please enjoy the ambient sounds of the desert and the occasional battle with monsters."


    : No, that''s not what we''re asking for!


    : Technically true but still wrong.


    : Nope. Just nope.


    : What is this guy even doing?


    : How is this a valid stream?


    I don''t get what they''re complaining about. Didn''t everyone say they wanted to see the deep floors? Now that I''m walking through the desert, showing it off while Kamishiro casually blasts monsters with magic, isn''t this exactly what they wanted?


    Kamishiro and I walk through the desert with umbrellas overhead, and I genuinely don''t understand why the viewers are making such a fuss.


    : Why is it raining in the desert?


    : Why are you holding umbrellas?


    : Are these two even serious?


    : Have they completely lost it?


    : "Honorary one of us," yet still lacking common sense.


    : In some twisted way, they really are our honorary members.


    "Rain? I''m making it rain, obviously."


    I glance behind me at the silver-haired, dark-eyed beauty following us.


    ''Master, I think you''re being a bit unclear.''


    "Am I?"


    The beauty behind me is Tenk¨±, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals, a shikigami who controls the weather. Since the desert is hot, I asked her to summon rain to cool things down. I didn''t think it needed much explanation.


    "...It was hot, so I had her make it rain."


    "Yeah, that''s right."


    : That''s not the issue!


    : The fact that you can just summon rain is what''s strange!


    : You guys are casually summoning weather now?


    : Where did you even get those umbrellas?


    : Casually controlling the weather, I see.


    : And this is why EXs are... (n-th time)


    "Is this really something to make a fuss about?"


    "I don''t think so. It was hot, so you made it rain. If it''s raining, the desert''s not so bad."


    : The problem isn''t just the rain!


    : This level of absurdity¡­


    : I give up.


    : Asking these monsters to understand human logic is impossible.


    I''m not using some ridiculously advanced magic to summon the rain, I''m just having a shikigami do it for me. They should just accept that as normal. If they start complaining about this, wait until they see the real battles with the deep-floor monsters, that''s where things get truly insane.


    "Huh?"


    "Hm?"


    While reading the comments and tilting my head, Kamishiro''s voice made me look up. In front of us was a massive scorpion, its metallic body gleaming as it slowly approached.


    : What the!?


    : That''s disgusting.


    : Where did that come from?


    : Isn''t that way too big?


    : That thing is terrifying!


    "It must have been slowly creeping up on us. This scorpion can reflect light to blend in with its surroundings."


    "Really?"


    "...How do you not know this?"


    "I never really cared."


    Sigh... my head hurts.


    This person has explored countless deep floors in various dungeons, yet she''s totally clueless about monsters. She probably just blows everything up with magic as soon as she sees it, without caring about details.


    : Take this seriously!


    : How does something that huge camouflage?


    : Why did it stop camouflaging?


    : This scorpion is terrifying.


    : It looks insanely tough.


    "Maybe it stopped camouflaging because it started raining. After all, it probably didn''t expect rain in a desert, though I''m not entirely sure."


    : You''re the one making it rain, genius!


    : It''s literally raining right now.


    : Take down that umbrella before you start talking about rain.


    : Absolutely no self-awareness, lol.


    : Typical Kisaragi.


    : We''ve come to understand him.


    : Kisaragi is just recklessly casual.


    "It''s coming."


    Naturally, the monster doesn''t care about our commentary. Whether we''re reading comments or holding umbrellas, once it spots us, it attacks.


    This scorpion... it probably hasn''t been officially named yet, given how few people have encountered it. It relies on brute force with its massive body, but it isn''t venomous, so there''s not much to worry about.


    As the scorpion charged, Kamishiro unleashed a fire spell. Instead of a beam, it was more like a flamethrower, but the scorpion pressed on, undeterred, closing the gap between us.


    : That''s amazing.


    : It''s so dangerous, though.


    : The viewers are way too calm, lol.


    : They can''t possibly lose, right?


    : I mean, it''s only the 74th floor.


    "...Its joints seem pretty tough."


    "Then maybe think before attacking¡ª" S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "¡ªMore firepower, got it!"


    Without listening to a word I said, Kamishiro, being herself, unleashed one of her signature high-powered spells. The magic instantly froze the desert floor, and the rain turned into hail. I used wind to direct the hail towards the scorpion, bombarding its body.


    With the ground frozen, the scorpion seemed to recognize us as a legitimate threat. Instead of charging headlong, it stopped and began to assess the situation from a distance.


    "Can you handle this?"


    "You''re just leaving it to me?"


    "Well, I could handle it if you want."


    : Do they not feel any danger at all?


    : Um¡­


    : Where''s the tension?


    : They''re way too relaxed.


    : Is that scorpion really strong, though?


    "If you compress your magic, you can probably pierce through it."


    "...Compressed magic, huh?"


    Asagao had mastered that technique, but I wonder if Kamishiro can do it too.


    "It''s something they''ve been researching in America. Compressing magic has always been thought of, but not many people had the talent to pull it off."


    "Asagao can do it, though."


    "Really? I''d love to meet her."


    With a smile, Kamishiro began compressing her typically overwhelming magic. Normally, her spells are powerful enough to collapse dungeons, but now she was shrinking them down to an incredible degree.


    "This is wind magic."


    The compressed wind magic shot out of her hand with a sound like tearing air. An invisible blade sliced through the scorpion''s metallic exoskeleton with ease.


    "¡­Your magic is just as impressive as always. In terms of sheer power."


    "Why do you sound like there''s something more behind that?"


    "Because there is."


    : I was too stunned to even comment.


    : These EXs aren''t human, are they?


    : Maybe they''re actual gods?


    : My theory is they''re robots developed for dungeon exploration.


    : If they were robots, they wouldn''t be sneaking off to America.


    "That''s rude. To call a stunning beauty like me a robot? Clearly, this audience needs to get outside more often."


    : Forbidden words.


    : Excuse me?


    : Did she just say what I think she did?


    : This means war.


    : You can''t just say that!


    : That crosses a line. Low-rating pressed.


    "Please, don''t say things that are going to get my stream downvoted."


    "Huh? Why?"


    What a carefree person. Telling introverts with social anxiety to "get outside more" is basically the forbidden card. Say that, and all you''ll get is an enraged introvert sobbing into their pillow at night. I doubt someone as naturally extroverted as Kamishiro could ever understand that introverts are delicate creatures.


    : Kisaragi, our hero!


    : The conscience of the EXs.


    : Isn''t the real conscience of the EXs that salaryman?


    : You mean the workaholic.


    : Still, Kisaragi is one of us.


    : Truly, an "honorary one of us."


    : The way he defends introverts is masterful.


    : We see you, Kisaragi.


    "¡­Go outside."


    : Betrayed!


    : Traitor!


    : I''ll downvote this!


    : How could you!


    : Kisaragi''s no longer one of us!


    : We''re stripping you of your "honorary one of us" title.


    I don''t need that disgraceful title, so go ahead and strip it away. While I am an introvert, I''m not a shut-in who never leaves the house, so calling me "honorary one of us" is just insulting.


    "Oh, I can see it now... the stairs leading to the 75th floor."


    : So this is the limit of human exploration.


    : The limit (officially recorded).


    : The limit (but totally a lie).


    : The limit (with questionable claims).


    : Everything''s way too vague.


    : This is hilarious.


    : The viewers are becoming paranoid, lol.


    : Too funny.


    "If the 75th floor is the limit, that means they couldn''t beat ''it,'' right?"


    "Yeah, definitely. That means it''s that thing."


    "There''s no real strategy for beating it, after all."


    : What''s "it" supposed to be?


    : Could you please stop with the vague pronouns?


    : We need details!


    : Classic EXs, speaking in half-finished thoughts.


    : Hurry up already.


    The comment section was getting impatient, but they''ll figure it out once we step inside. There''s no point in explaining something that''ll become obvious soon, and Kamishiro seems to share that sentiment, ignoring the comments as she happily skips down the stairs.


    "Who''s fighting it?" Continue the saga on m-v-l-e-mpyr


    "¡­Which one of us would you prefer?"


    : They''re not fighting together?


    : Are they some kind of battle tribe?


    : Is this some 1v1 ritual? These people are savages.


    : EXs are wild.


    : EXs'' reputation keeps taking hits.


    : Asagao is the only one among them who seems normal.


    : Terrifying.


    "Then you should handle it, Kamishiro."


    "If I just jump into the fight, they''ll say I''m a battle freak! But fine, I''ll do it!"


    "You will, right?"


    : She actually is a battle freak.


    : So it''s true.


    : Terrifying.


    : Dungeon explorers really are just savages.


    : Explorers = brutal people confirmed.


    : Asagao was a breath of fresh air (nostalgic sigh).


    Calling explorers brutal or savages is what the more radical anti-dungeon exploration folks rant about on the internet. These are the same people who spread conspiracy theories, honestly. Kids nowadays learn about dungeons in school, so they''re better informed. High schoolers even get detailed history lessons on them. Even middle schoolers know how deeply dungeons impact the economy.


    While I chatted idly with the comments, we eventually reached the 75th floor.


    "We''re here."


    "And it''s already waiting."


    : It''s... very flat.


    : Looks like the Hachioji Dungeon.


    : It''s not paved, but the ground is completely flat.


    : So, the deep floors have areas like this, too?


    : Maybe this is a rest point?


    : Did the rank S party make it here and then turn back for a break?


    The viewers don''t seem to realize it yet, but we''ve already been spotted. The killing intent is practically palpable, and it won''t be long before it shows itself.


    Just as I was thinking that, the ground trembled, raising clouds of dust. A massive dragon with an impressive mustache emerged from the yellow-brown earth and soared into the sky. I have no idea how it flies, but its four sharp-clawed legs paddle through the air as if swimming through the dungeon''s atmosphere.


    "¡­Still as leisurely as ever."


    "Well, I''ll just sit back and watch."


    : Wait, what?


    : You need to explain things!


    : Who said this was a rest area!?


    : There''s no safety in the deep floors, is there?


    : Seriously, this is deep floor territory!


    : Humans have no business being here.


    Hmm... now that I think about it, even regular dungeon explorers might not be able to comprehend a giant dragon emerging from the ground and flying around. When you dive into the deep floors, this kind of thing becomes routine. The monsters in the deep floors are leagues beyond what you find in the lower levels¡ªthey''re practically otherworldly.


    People often say there''s a stark difference between the middle and lower floors, but in reality, the gap between the lower and deep floors is on a whole different scale. Monsters on the lower floors are still somewhat biological; you can make sense of their movements. But down here, it''s like dealing with creatures straight out of fantasy.


    "That''s a dragon, isn''t it? Like the ones from Chinese mythology."


    : Yeah, no kidding!


    : You don''t need to be a genius to figure that out!


    : That''s some serious small talk.


    : Introvert energy coming in strong.


    : Classic awkward introvert.


    "¡­It''s a monster that swims through the air using its magic. As some of you might''ve guessed from the way it emerged from the ground, it can also manipulate the earth with magic. It''s a pain to deal with because it attacks from a distance, manipulating the ground under your feet. The best strategy is to hit it with overwhelming firepower from afar."


    : He''s upset and talking fast now.


    : Nerdy, rapid-fire explanation incoming.


    : I still don''t get it.


    : Just go with the flow.


    : This is beyond comprehension.


    : Magic that lets you swim through the air? What?


    I''m not mad, okay? I was just a little irritated and thought I''d mess with the viewers a bit.


    And for those who can''t understand what it means to "swim through the air with magic"...


    "Magic is pretty versatile, so you can do almost anything you set your mind to. Like flying through the air, for example."


    "Wait for meee!"


    : Uh, what?


    : Wait, hold on.


    : What is going on?


    : What!?


    : This makes no sense.


    : I''m lost.


    : Absolutely no way.


    Wait, doesn''t every explorer do this?

 Chapter 49: Two EXs Tear Through the Deep Floors!

    Flying using magic isn''t common sense.


    I''ve learned that now.


    : He''s really flying, and it''s funny.


    : Actually, it''s not even funny.


    : LOL


    : What?


    : This is scary.


    The viewers seem to be in disbelief, but Kamishiro and the ochre-colored dragon have already started their free-form aerial battle, paying no mind to the comments.


    The dragon, just as it looks, spits fire from its mouth while fending off Kamishiro, who''s chasing it. However, Kamishiro''s superior magic control allows her to fly faster than the dragon.


    "Got you!"


    Kamishiro jumps onto the dragon''s back and conjures an enormous amount of magic, unleashing it without hesitation. Normally, you''d gather magic slowly, building its power, but she bypasses that entire process with raw talent. Isn''t that kind of unfair?


    : GIANT MONSTER BATTLE!


    : I can only let out a dry laugh.


    : Hmm.


    : Which one''s the real monster here?


    : Kamishiro Rion, obviously.


    Your journey continues on m-vle-mpyr


    : A complete beast.


    : She''s supposed to be a college student, but wow.


    : If you still think she''s a normal college girl, you need to see an eye doctor.


    : Go see a psychiatrist instead.


    "Whoa... She''s going all out."


    Even among EXs, Kamishiro is considered a problem child, but her strength is undeniable. No matter where she is, she fights with explosive, flashy magic. On upper and middle floors, this habit of hers often leads to dungeons collapsing, but down here in the deep floors¡ªwhere each level is massive¡ªit''s not an issue at all.


    "Haha! Can''t catch me!"


    The dragon, having survived the first attack, flies further upward in an attempt to escape, while Kamishiro gleefully gives chase. Normally, it''s the monsters that chase humans, but this... This woman is definitely part of some battle-hungry tribe, just as the viewers are saying.


    "Oh no."


    : What happened?


    : Did something go wrong?


    : Hey, are you alright?


    : Did an emergency just happen?


    : If something goes wrong in the deep floors, aren''t we done for? Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The dragon''s escape to the sky, and the fact that it survived even Kamishiro''s massive magic attack, can only mean one thing: she''s going to hit it with something even stronger. And that means... she might end up bringing down the ceiling of the deep floor.


    "Kamishiro-san?"


    "Take this!"


    "''K¨­chin!''"


    Nope, she has no clue what''s going on.


    I quickly summon K¨­chin and set up a barrier around myself. If anything falls from above, I''ll be fine.


    My worries were justified.


    "Yaaah!"


    The super-compressed, high-powered magic Kamishiro unleashed not only vaporized the dragon mid-flight, but it also punched a hole through the 75th floor ceiling, straight into the 74th floor above. And the 74th floor... is the desert zone.


    "Oh."


    : Hey.


    : They''re buried in sand!


    : Did she just destroy the ceiling?


    : This is what EXs do?


    : If this happened on the 1st floor, Shibuya Station would collapse.


    : Don''t even joke about that.


    : They''re dead, right?


    : No way they''re dead.


    Despite being buried under a massive amount of sand, the viewers aren''t worried at all. Honestly, neither am I¡ªthere''s no way someone like Kamishiro would die from something like this. I''ll just leave her be.


    "Well, I guess we cleared the 75th floor easily. What should we do now?"


    : Hmm.


    : If you''ve got two EXs, sure, why not.


    : You might as well stream all the way to the bottom floor, lol.


    : This is going to be a historic moment¡ªthe highest floor cleared live on stream (lol).


    : What a touching finale.


    : You did it, Honorary One of Us.


    : A long and arduous journey has finally come to an end.


    Hey, come on, that''s harsh. From what I''ve researched, dungeon explorers take pride in reaching their highest floor. Although, I''ve never heard of EXs caring about such things. My grandma, for instance, couldn''t care less.


    "Whew... that was heavy!"


    "Oh, she''s back."


    Kamishiro bursts out from under the sand, scattering it everywhere as she emerges. It''s like something straight out of a movie, but since it''s her own doing, I don''t feel anything.


    "Ugh... why did this have to happen?"


    "Maybe because you keep carelessly blasting magic everywhere? You don''t even consider the power of your own spells, do you?"


    "Yup!"


    Don''t answer that so cheerfully.


    : Is this really okay?


    : Should someone with such poor judgment really have EX status?


    : As long as she doesn''t do this in Japanese dungeons, it''s fine.


    : You realize this is Shibuya Dungeon, right?


    : She''s doing this in a Japanese dungeon, so it''s a problem.


    : Power gets you privileges.


    "But seriously, isn''t it tiring to think about all those little details every time you use magic?"


    "No, it''s not tiring. It''s normal."


    "Hey, viewers, you guys just fire off magic without thinking too, right?"


    : Nope, absolutely not.


    : What if you hit someone?


    : I can''t even cast spells with that kind of power.


    : I have no idea what you''re talking about.


    : I''m not an explorer, so I don''t know.


    : I''m not that reckless.


    "...Traitors!"


    "You''re just stating facts."


    Is this woman an idiot?


    How does someone live so carefreely... yet still manage to dive into the deep floors like it''s nothing?


    "Humph! Let''s head down to the 76th floor!"


    "I thought we were done at the 75th floor?"


    "It''d be boring to stop at the highest recorded floor! Since we''ve got two EXs, let''s just see how far we can go!"


    "...At this rate, we might end up reaching the bottom floor."


    : Do it.


    : Conquer the dungeon.


    : Make this a legendary stream.


    : For once, I agree with Kamishiro.


    : Shock the world by clearing Shibuya Dungeon.


    : You can do it, Honorary One of Us.


    : We believe in you, Honorary One of Us.


    "Can you stop trying to make that nickname stick? I really don''t like it."


    "Haha, that''s hilarious!"


    "I''m about to smack you."


    Ugh, she''s so annoying.


    It''s one thing when the viewers say it, but when Kamishiro says it, it irritates me more. Maybe it''s because she''s such a carefree, lighthearted person who doesn''t seem to think before she speaks.


    : Calm down, Kisaragi.


    : Be cool, Kisaragi.


    : If you hit her, she''ll die.


    : She''s an EX too, so she won''t die.


    : If these two monsters fight, the surface might be affected...


    : LOL.


    "Haah... fine. Let''s go as far as we can. I''ve still got plenty of energy left anyway."


    "Great! Let''s make this a ''Conquering New Floors'' stream!"


    "...Well, I guess there''s no competition."


    : If there were competition, I''d be terrified.


    : Yeah, no one else could pull this off.


    : If someone could rival EXs, they''d just become one themselves.


    : This stream is legendary.


    : Every one of his streams is legendary at this point.


    : That''s the EX standard.


    : You''re probably scaring off other dungeon streamers with your antics.


    If people stop dungeon streaming just because I''m streaming the deep floors, then they weren''t that serious to begin with.


    Besides, I''m just doing my own thing. I don''t owe anyone anything.


    Kamishiro, walking ahead of me, likely cares even less about what other people think.

 Chapter 50: A Slime and Speed Showdown!

    "Which floor are we on now?"


    "...80, I think?"


    : It''s 81.


    : Pay attention.


    : Too careless.


    : What''s with these people?


    : This is terrifying.


    Honestly, after diving this deep, it becomes hard to keep track of what floor you''re on. From floor 76 onward, the strength of the monsters doesn''t change much, and the dungeon turns into this endless, dark cave-like environment.


    The monsters that appear also start getting more grotesque, and there are some truly annoying ones.


    "Another slime, huh?"


    "Sigh..."


    One of the most troublesome creatures is the slime. This gelatinous blob can''t be harmed by slicing, stabbing, or crushing. The only way to deal damage is by striking its core with pure magic. But the real problem? It''s huge. We''re talking a good 10 meters in size, easily blocking the dungeon''s passageways, so ignoring it isn''t an option.


    "Hyaa!"


    "''Kijin.''"


    ''Understood.''


    : Whoa...


    : They''ve been doing this for a while now.


    : Are they seriously going to the bottom floor?


    : It seems possible at this point.


    : I''m exhausted from this endurance stream.


    : How many hours have they been at it?


    : Still going strong, huh?


    "Oh, it exploded and tried to escape!"


    "Chase it."


    ''As you command!''


    After Kamishiro hit it with her magic, the slime seemed to sense imminent death and exploded in all directions to protect its core. But Kijin wasn''t one to let it go. With a burst of magic, the smaller, fleeing slimes were crushed, ending the battle.


    To be honest, we could probably make it to the bottom floor if we kept pushing... but something about that doesn''t sit right with me. I''d rather prepare properly before attempting a full dungeon dive. But, since we''ve come this far, I might as well go a bit deeper.


    "Still... this is getting kind of boring."


    "Please don''t say that."


    "Ehh?"


    This woman really gets bored too easily. I mean, she dropped out of university just because she got bored, after all. It''s like she constantly defies understanding.


    Granted, the dungeon''s environment hasn''t changed in a while, and the monsters haven''t exactly been exciting... but seasoned explorers don''t get bored this easily.


    : Too free-spirited.


    : But her personality matches what we''ve seen on social media, so it checks out.


    : Is this what they call "accurate characterization"?


    : No, that''s probably not it.


    : LOL.


    : Kisaragi, just drag her along and keep going.


    : Maybe it''s time to head back?


    : Either way works for me.


    : If it''s dangerous, you should head back.


    "It''s not dangerous, really... I''m used to exploring unknown floors, so there''s not much of a sense of urgency."


    : You''re insane too.


    : Always keep a sense of danger, man.


    : Don''t counter crazy with more crazy.


    : What''s with these EX people?


    : Y''all are nuts.


    "They''re talking about you, you know?"


    "Ignore them."


    The viewers'' comments can be ignored¡ªnothing bad comes from that. Honestly, it''s best to just ignore most of what they say and only engage when you''re really bored.


    Keep the adventure going with m|vl-em|p-yr


    While bantering with the viewers, we soon discovered the stairs leading to the next floor. If I remember correctly, the 82nd floor is the deepest I''ve ever reached... maybe? I''m not even sure anymore.


    "What''s the final floor, I wonder?"


    "If we''ve come this far, I hope it''s the 100th. That''d be pretty exciting."


    "Right? It''d be like a dream! Anyway, let''s keep going!"


    "Aren''t you the same person who just suggested we head back?"


    : LOL.


    : This free spirit.


    : Stop making decisions on a whim.


    : Is this what deep-floor explorers are like?


    : This is actually terrifying.


    : What do you people even fear at this point?


    : Uh...


    : The viewers are lost.


    : Are all EX people like this? Japan''s top fighters are scary.


    It feels like a bunch of wild misunderstandings are spreading online at light speed. Should I try to set the record straight? ...Nah, forget it. People were already saying whatever they wanted before I even started streaming. No point worrying about it now.


    Kamishiro, of course, couldn''t care less about any of that. She''s already sprinting full-speed down the stairs to the 82nd floor. By the way, she''s using magic-enhanced body strengthening to run at full speed, but I can catch up easily since I''m even faster. The camera, though? It probably won''t keep up, so I''ll have to carry it.


    : This is making me dizzy.


    : Too fast.


    : This isn''t human speed.


    : Ugh.


    : People are passing out in real time.


    : Streaming this kind of speed with your body is insane.


    : This is too much.


    : I can''t even look at the screen.


    : I''m confident I''ll puke if I keep watching.


    "Arrived! The comment section is hilarious¡ªeveryone''s down for the count!"


    "Maybe work on strengthening your inner ear a bit?"


    I don''t plan on moving this fast for stream content very often, but come on, people need to toughen up a bit.


    : Don''t kid around.


    : I can''t even look at my phone in the car without getting sick!


    : I throw up if I just turn around in a car.


    : That was basically the speed of a roller coaster, right? S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : You guys ran faster than some amusement park rides, and you think it''s fine?


    "Ignore it!"


    "Monsters are here."


    ''Leave it to me.''


    Descending the stairs, we encountered a demon-like monster with four arms. Kijin, who had been following behind me, leapt forward and snapped its neck with a single kick.


    : Uh...


    : Too strong, LOL.


    : Do we even need anyone else?


    : This guy is supposedly a support role, right?


    : Kijin can do it all, huh?


    : This guy acts all nerdy, and yet...


    : What''s so special about Kisaragi?


    ''Did I just hear that?''


    : Oh no, you idiot.


    : Uh-oh.


    : You pressed the wrong button.


    ''Master''s greatness surpasses that of the universe itself. His heart is vast and kind, and even when I deliberately mess up, he says it''s fine. He even goes out of his way to tolerate scum like you all.''


    : Who you calling scum?


    : I mean, she''s not wrong.


    : We''re being convicted for stating facts.


    : This is slander.


    : Being accused of factually describing things is a serious crime.


    : You could get executed for that.


    "Kijin, back to your house."


    ''Please, Master! I beg you, anything but that!''


    "Stop clinging to me, geez!"


    She''s incredibly beautiful, but I wish she wouldn''t get so close. I''m starting to feel bad.


    : Hmm... why does the "Honorary One of Us" get all the girls?


    : This is unacceptable.


    : Should we revoke his title?


    : But if we keep him as "one of us," our status rises by association, right?


    : No, it doesn''t.


    : LOL.


    "Haha! Your dynamic with your shikigami is as funny as ever!"


    ''As if you have any room to talk, wanderer. You''re the one causing Master the most stress. Ugh, how irritating.''


    "Huh? This Kijin is still as annoying as ever!"


    ''You''re one to talk.''


    "Isn''t this a case of ''pot calling the kettle black''?"


    : Is this mutual dislike?


    : Stop the catfight.


    : Kisaragi, this is your chance to say, "Don''t fight over me!"


    : In reality, Kamishiro gets punched, and Kijin goes to her "house."


    : LOL.


    Sigh... I don''t think any of my streams have ever gone according to plan. Maybe I should start pre-planning everything in more detail... I found myself staring off into the distance, lost in thought.

 Chapter 51: Starting a Flame War

    Eventually, after continuing through the dungeon with Kijin and Kamishiro-san wreaking havoc, we made it down to the 85th floor. Even though we''re ten floors below the previous highest reached level, nothing too extraordinary has happened so far. I''m starting to wonder if we should keep going.


    : You probably don''t care, but the internet is absolutely blowing up over this.


    : Knew it.


    : Of course it is.


    : Can''t you see the viewer count?


    : Even foreign comments are rolling in.


    : This is the place for the ultimate event.


    : This stream is the event.


    : The dungeon community is in a complete uproar. Discover endless adventures on m-vl-em,py-r


    : The Explorers'' forum is going crazy right now.


    "¡­No monsters around, huh?"


    "Feels kinda boring."


    So apparently, things are going wild on the surface, but down here on the 85th floor, we''re just strolling along. Sure, I''m aware that what we''re doing might be groundbreaking¡ªpotentially pushing for the completion of Shibuya Dungeon¡ªbut as an explorer, I just want to enjoy the exploration. Besides, I doubt Kamishiro-san is thinking about any of this at all.


    : What''s the plan now?


    : The streamer himself doesn''t seem to care, lmao.


    : The disinterest is too real.


    : Translators, keep up the good work.


    : I saw someone say in English, "What''s up with these insane explorers?"


    : True.


    : Pretty much the same in Japanese.


    : Seems right.


    : What exactly are you satisfied with here?


    Calling us "insane explorers" is a bit harsh¡­ But to be fair, I am an officially signed EX-ranked explorer with WDAO. I''m pretty sure the EX explorers in America are just as reckless as we are.


    : He''s actively avoiding the comments, I swear.


    : This guy''s just straight-up ignoring us.


    : Let''s have a Q&A session!


    : Good idea.


    : Yeah, they''re bored. Let''s chat.


    : Even the viewers are losing it now.


    : Always were.


    : Yeah, that''s just how it is.


    "Q&A? Sure, why not."


    At this point, might as well go for it. Bring on the questions.


    : What''s the temperature on the 85th floor?


    : What do you think about Kamishiro Rion?


    : Are you really the strongest?


    : Do you like your Shikigami?


    : How does it feel to be Japan''s top streamer?


    : You''re global, dude.


    : Do you get girls?


    : No way. We''re talking about us here, right? S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Right, no chance. We''re the us.


    "I''ll ignore the slanderous comments, thank you. Who said I''m part of ''us''?"


    "Haha! It''s true, Tsuu-kun''s position, power, and wealth are worlds apart from you guys."


    "I will hit you."


    : Huh?


    : Is this the one time we agree with Tsuu-kun?


    : Can''t believe it, but I''m angry too.


    : Yeah, that''s too far.


    : Don''t provoke us, pretty girl!


    : Okay, but also insult us more, pls.


    Why does she always casually poke at the viewers like this? Take that back to your own channel. If this earns me a flood of downvotes, how will she make it up to me?


    "Anyway, let''s answer something... The temperature here on the 85th floor is about¡­ 25¡ãC. Pretty comfortable if you''re moving around."


    "I could go for something cooler, but that''s probably asking too much, huh?"


    "It''s a dungeon."


    Still, the consistent climate of this dark, monotonous cave is a blessing. It can get way worse in other dungeons, trust me.


    "As for Kamishiro-san¡­ she''s too much of a free spirit. We don''t really get along. She just wanders around aimlessly, never accepts any requests despite being a Japanese EX, and¡­ yeah, I can''t deal with it."


    "What? That''s harsh! What about, like, personally?"


    "I really don''t like her. She''s pushy, constantly butting in like some nosy aunt. She''s almost the worst."


    "This is cruel!"


    Of course, it is. We met because she picked a fight with me out of nowhere, and I beat her to a pulp. That''s how this all started.


    : This sounds like pure dislike, lol.


    : Wow¡­


    : This is straight-up resentment, huh?


    : Yeah, their personalities seem to clash.


    : Makes sense.


    : I''d feel the same.


    : I''d hate her too.


    : Glad we''re only watching her through a screen.


    "Next¡­ strongest? I don''t think so, but whatever. I like my Shikigami, though. I wouldn''t summon them if I didn''t."


    : And once again, Kijin declares herself the ''main wife.''


    "Ah, Kijin doesn''t count."


    : Betrayed again!


    : Same reaction every time, lmao.


    : Shikigami with personalities is the best part of this.


    : You could honestly just stream the Shikigami interacting.


    : A Shikigami-only stream would be fresh.


    "And about getting girls... Frankly speaking, it''s not really about whether I get girls or not. I barely meet any women, to begin with."


    : Oh.


    : Ah, yeah.


    : Forgot. He''s a loner.


    : The dungeon nerd.


    : Yeah, no girls in a dungeon.


    : Dude, you''re not gonna find a girlfriend in there.


    : Go to a mixer.


    : High schoolers don''t do mixers!


    : Also, no drinking at 18!


    : Did someone say ''mixer''? Lol.


    "No, I''m not that desperate... but, honestly, is getting married something I should do?"


    : In this era of low birthrates, absolutely.


    : Fix the declining population, my dude.


    : You''ve got money, man.


    : Marriage isn''t just about money, though.


    : Yeah, women aren''t lining up for cash.


    : The ones who do are only after cash.


    : We are us for a reason.


    That''s harsh... But there''s some truth there. People say if you don''t have any romantic experiences by the time you''re in high school, it gets much harder once you''re an adult. Is that true?


    I feel successful as an explorer, but my life experience is lacking. I bet the viewers are more knowledgeable in this area.


    "¡­But, my viewers are probably shut-ins, so¡­"


    : Ah.


    : He just said it.


    : It''s war now.


    : This is gonna blow up.


    : You''ve committed an unforgivable sin.


    : Fact-checker says: It''s true, though.


    : We''re gonna post this everywhere.


    : Becoming an anti-fan now.


    : Starting a flame war.


    Sure, I know I shouldn''t have said it, but it''s still true. And I''m the type to stir things up a little. Let''s be honest¡ªI''m not here to be some polite streamer. It''s part of the fun.


    Anyway, let''s stop at the 86th floor. I don''t want to go all the way to the bottom with Kamishiro-san pushing us, without proper preparations.

 Chapter 52: Summoning the Sea God!

    "Finally... we''ve arrived at the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon." S§×ar?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "¡­It''s so bright."


    After trudging through a dark cave for so long, I started thinking the whole dungeon would be caves all the way to the bottom. But suddenly, we stepped out onto a beach that looks like the perfect spot for extroverts to hang out. I don''t remember getting this far before, so it feels like we''ve really pushed past the previous highest reached floor.


    A blue ocean, white sandy beach¡­ the bright, beaming sun (or rather, glowing magic stones), and a place that just screams that no introvert would ever come near it. I''m definitely not an extrovert, so this bright summer beach-like place is not my vibe at all.


    "Hmm... doesn''t it look like a popular tourist spot?"


    "Yes, it does. I''ve seen the term ''crystal-clear emerald sea'' before, but this is my first time actually seeing it."


    : Is this paradise?


    : Did we just die and go to heaven?


    : Hell looped around and became heaven?


    : Even if it looped around, that''s still the afterlife.


    : No doubt.


    : Let''s go swimming!


    : Let''s make this a tourist spot for Japan!


    : (It''s the 86th floor of a dungeon¡­)


    : Yeah, we knew that.


    Even with this stunning view that could rival any domestic vacation spot, it''s still the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon. Proof of that lies in the massive creature approaching from beyond the horizon.


    "What''s that?"


    "Isn''t that a slime?"


    "But... we''re at the ocean."


    : It''s gotta be the ocean.


    : The ocean is the enemy now?


    : What the¡­?


    : I don''t get it.


    Yeah, I don''t get it either. Why do I have to look out at this beautiful ocean only to see what is essentially a sea monster the size of a small building? It''s like a slime, but as big as a sea giant, and it''s heading straight for us.


    : Summon a sea monster of your own!


    : Do it!


    : Sea monster showdown!


    : Go for it!


    : The viewers are hyped, lol.


    : Show us EX power!


    "Haa¡­"


    "Can''t you just take it out in one shot?"


    "Are you really going for it?"


    "Watch me!"


    Kamishiro-san is reckless but not overconfident. If she''s charging in, it means she believes she can do it. So, I''ll focus on doing what I can. After all, even I have never seen a monster of that size before.


    "Kijin."


    ''Yes, I already know what you need, Master.''


    "Then, take control."


    ''Leave it to me.''


    The Shikigami I summon are mostly based on traditional folklore or stories that I imagine, creating them from scratch. They exist through my interpretation, and when summoned, they come to life as new beings. In essence, if I imagine it in great detail, I could even create a character from a video game.


    It''s an extremely versatile magic, but it comes with some limitations. I can''t create something greater than myself, and the Shikigami will only act in ways I can imagine them acting. However, that only applies to regular Shikigami.


    "Purify and cleanse, protect under divine will, bless with abundant fortune."


    Reciting a brief prayer isn''t really necessary, but as someone who believes in the existence of gods, it feels wrong not to. The regular Shikigami are bound by my imagination, but the Twelve Heavenly Generals are different. They are divine vessels I create through Shikigami techniques, allowing the spirits of gods to descend into them.


    So, when Kijin refers to me as her ''master,'' it''s because the entity within her decides to do so, not because of my will. That''s why the Twelve Heavenly Generals aren''t truly my Shikigami. It''s more like a summoning technique that brings down divine spirits.


    In short, what I''m trying to say is¡­ Shikigami techniques can be pushed to summon pretty insane things if you know what you''re doing.


    "Owatatsumi-no-Kami."


    I imagined the grand embodiment of the sea itself. A being that sometimes heals life with the nurturing sea and sometimes mercilessly sweeps everything away, a mixture of love and fear. And then, I summon something into it, much like the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    This is the first time I''ve ever summoned a real god. I feel a significant amount of my magical energy being drained, but with Kijin''s help controlling the flow, I manage to keep it from spiraling out of control.


    "Take that!"


    : Wait, Kamishiro''s magic looks like a pea shooter now.


    : Pea shooter (piercing attack).


    : A pea shooter doesn''t cut through a 30-meter tidal wave, guys.


    : Let''s not nitpick.


    : Is it even working?


    : I can''t tell.


    : No idea what''s happening.


    Kamishiro-san''s compressed magic is powerful, but the opponent is too big to know if it''s having any effect. Like normal slimes, this one probably has a core somewhere, and hitting anything else won''t matter much.


    Well, if we can''t see the core, we''ll just keep hitting it until we find it.


    "Ugh!"


    : Uh, what?


    : What''s Tsuu-kun doing?


    : Wait¡­ did he just summon a sea god?


    : I heard him mutter Owatatsumi earlier¡­


    : Did he summon a god?


    : Is this real?


    : Huh?


    ''Master, this won''t hold for long!''


    "I know¡­ it''s my first time."


    ''Does that really matter!?''


    Of course it does. I remember the first time I summoned one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals¡ªKijin, to be specific¡ªand I only managed to maintain it for a few seconds before all my magical energy was drained. The same applies here. Summoning Owatatsumi-no-Kami will take a lot of practice before I can control it properly.


    "This is a primordial god¡­ It''s tougher than the first time with the Heavenly Generals, so brace yourself."


    ''Understood! For you, Master, I will endure until the end!''


    : ¡­


    : You just summoned something way worse than the sea monster.


    : I''m speechless.


    : The chat just went dead silent, lol.


    : First, a 30-meter sea monster shows up, and the EX attacks aren''t doing anything, but then the other EX summons a literal sea god bigger than the monster?


    : I don''t even¡­ what?


    : Is this the deep levels of the dungeon?


    This is the first time I''ve ever gone this far too! Continue the journey on m|vl-em,py-r


    The summoned Owatatsumi-no-Kami isn''t resisting my control, thankfully. Maybe it''s because of the prayer? It seems willing to follow my will until the enemy is defeated. That said, being a god of the sea, it''s better to request than command.


    "This ends now!"


    You don''t need to speak commands aloud to control a Shikigami. As long as I focus on the target in my mind and wish for it, the sea god will move.


    The slime, sensing our presence, begins to swell up, preparing to launch a massive water attack. But with a simple gesture of its left hand, Owatatsumi-no-Kami makes the creature swell and then explode.


    : Wait, it''s over?


    : Did¡­ did it just end?


    : Oh god.


    : Gods are terrifying.


    : EX explorers can summon gods?


    : Does this mean they can destroy the world?


    : Yep, probably.


    : Humanity''s fate is in their hands.


    That''s harsh. Owatatsumi-no-Kami just moved one hand, and I lost a significant amount of magical energy to make that happen. I''m no superhuman. And anyway, I''m not going any further!


    We''re heading back now!


    Stream''s over!

 Chapter 53: Thread 5: Beyond Human Limits

    37: Anonymous Explorer


    The thread''s moving way too fast!


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    It can''t be helped.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ve burned through like 20 threads just for this morning''s stream, right?


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    Reason for ending the exploration: "Just kind of got tired."


    Record: 86th floor.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait¡­ seriously?


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank explorers can do anything, huh?


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s what we learned this time:


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion is a beautiful but disappointing person.


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion and Kisaragi-kun are like a messy older sister and her long-suffering younger brother.


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun can make it rain whenever he feels like it.


    ¨C Magic compression is being researched in America.


    ¨C The boss of the 75th floor is some kind of weird dragon.


    ¨C Explorers can fly (??????)


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun can summon gods (?????????)


    ¨C The 86th floor is a beach.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾43


    Too much information!


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    It doesn''t make any sense.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    Even watching the stream left me confused.


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾43


    ¨C Explorers can fly (??????)


    ?????????


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    No, they can''t.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    But Kamishiro Rion was flying!


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t try to apply logic to EX-ranks. That''s the takeaway from this thread.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    True.


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s happening¡­?


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    I was at work and missed the stream, but I can tell it was chaotic.


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    Trust me, even if you watched it, it still didn''t make sense.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s what viewers learned today:


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun is amazing.


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion is amazing.


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, that''s pretty accurate.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion is an idiot.


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun is a little odd.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    You''d know Kamishiro Rion is an idiot if you''ve followed her on social media.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    Is she really that bad?


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    She mostly just posts pictures, though.


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    So many brain-breaking moments today.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t Asagao-chan just too good for him?


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    No one in the country is on Asagao''s level except for three other people.


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    So, EX Reiman isn''t as ridiculous as I thought?


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    Even Jinguji Kaede managed to solo the Takayama Dungeon to the bottom.


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-ranks are just built differently¡­


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, really?


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t she part of a party? I''m confused.


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede is known as the fastest explorer, right?


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    But how accurate is that claim?


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m gonna suggest on social media that they collab with Jinguji Kaede next!


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, I want to see all the EX explorers.


    Exclusive content at m,v,l,e,mpyr


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    The dungeon world is in chaos after today''s stream.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    No surprise there.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    I expected as much.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    Dungeon researchers on social media are losing their minds.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, it is the deep floors.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s no wonder people are freaking out after so much new information was revealed at once.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Image


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    Lol. S~ea??h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    Stop laughing at them.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    Poor guy¡­


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t see the image right now, bad connection. Can someone explain?


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    That''s just sad.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾83


    The official Explorer Association account posted an update about the new record set in the Shibuya Dungeon, then immediately followed up with a sigh.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-ranks, man¡­


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe we shouldn''t let EX-ranks meet each other.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    We need to keep them separated and under control.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    Can we even control monsters like that?


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    They can fly, remember?


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾90


    Just thinking about it makes me laugh.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    This whole situation is a mess.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    Everything is just chaos now.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    The Dungeon boards, the Kamishiro Rion fan forums, the researchers, the Explorer Association, and the dungeon streaming community¡­


    They''re all losing their minds.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    What have you done, Kisaragi-kun?


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    This is basically a coup.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s practically an overthrow of the government.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    We might get an official press conference from the government at this rate.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    The Dungeon Ministry is definitely going to hold a press conference.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s been years since we had a new record for the highest floor reached¡­ And the exploration ended because "he got tired."


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    I feel like I''m losing my mind.


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s always been insane, so don''t worry.


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    How can anyone be calm after this?


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    The archived stream is blowing up with views.


    105: Anonymous Explorer


    What are we even supposed to do now?


    106: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s Kisaragi-kun''s next stream going to be like?


    107: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no point in predicting it.


    108: Anonymous Explorer


    He could probably get a million views just by rolling a pencil.


    109: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s always a mess, and yet I can''t stop watching.


    110: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun just became my favorite streamer.


    111: Anonymous Explorer


    Does he have a lot of female fans?


    112: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe not?


    113: Anonymous Explorer


    I bet he''s got a lot of female explorer fans, though.


    114: Anonymous Explorer


    Definitely.


    115: Anonymous Explorer


    Most of his viewers are probably explorers in general.


    116: Anonymous Explorer


    His audience seems pretty young.


    117: Anonymous Explorer


    The government should treat Kisaragi-kun with more care.


    118: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s already an anti-thread about Kisaragi-kun.


    [Explorer]UNKNOWN Anti-thread[Kisaragi Tsukasa]


    119: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾118


    Lol.


    120: Anonymous Explorer


    Not surprised.


    121: Anonymous Explorer


    Once you get an anti-thread, you know you''ve made it big.


    122: Anonymous Explorer


    His channel just hit a million subs too.


    123: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, seriously?


    124: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s way too fast, lol.


    125: Anonymous Explorer


    Both the anti-thread and the subs count are exploding, huh?


    126: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m dying of laughter.


    127: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s an EX explorer, streaming, and now he''s got a ton of haters.


    128: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread is moving fast with angry comments, lol.


    129: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s full of jealous posts, and it''s hilarious.


    130: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾129


    Don''t call it jealousy or they''ll get mad.


    131: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve seen the hate comments on social media too. He''s been getting a lot of flak lately.


    132: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s because he''s collabing with Asagao-chan and showing off his absurd strength.


    133: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like he''s one of us, but with insane powers, so people are picking on him.


    134: Anonymous Explorer


    If he were more serious, maybe he wouldn''t get so much hate¡­


    135: Anonymous Explorer


    If he were serious, he wouldn''t be streaming at all.


    136: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread people will never beat him, though.


    137: Anonymous Explorer


    Jealousy is real, huh?


    138: Anonymous Explorer


    All the wrong types of people are gathering in that anti-thread, lol.


    139: Anonymous Explorer


    So much happened in just one day.


    140: Anonymous Explorer


    ¨C 20 threads burned through in a few hours.


    ¨C His stream hit #1 trending worldwide.


    ¨C An anti-thread got created.


    ¨C Jealous trolls invaded.


    ¨C Social media is blowing up with replies.


    141: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾140


    This plus the list from earlier¡­ It''s all insane.


    142: Anonymous Explorer


    This is just too much, lol.


    143: Anonymous Explorer


    I bet we''ll start seeing a ton of "deep floor analysis" videos soon based on Kisaragi-kun''s stream.


    144: Anonymous Explorer


    Fake analysis videos are always fun.


    145: Anonymous Explorer


    I love those deep-dive videos.


    146: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you think Kisaragi-kun will respond to the anti-thread?


    147: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s too busy for that, I bet.


    148: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-threaders are just playing by themselves.


    149: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t that always the case?


    150: Anonymous Explorer


    Ah..


    151: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾149


    True that.


    152: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    153: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably too busy to care about his haters.


    154: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you think he''ll add a donation feature?


    155: Anonymous Explorer


    There aren''t even any ads on his streams.


    156: Anonymous Explorer


    He should at least enable ads, right?


    157: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably already swimming in money, though.


    158: Anonymous Explorer


    So jealous.


    159: Anonymous Explorer


    By the way, his next stream is apparently going to be a "Dungeon Basics" class.


    Image


    160: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾159


    Wait, seriously¡­ you''re doing this now?


    161: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s probably a contract stream for the Association, lol.


    162: Anonymous Explorer


    What even are "dungeon basics"?


    163: Anonymous Explorer


    "Almost dying makes you stronger," or something?


    164: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾163


    Stop with the fake "basics," lol.


    165: Anonymous Explorer


    "Use magic, and your enemies will die."


    166: Anonymous Explorer


    "Don''t rely too much on your Shikigami."


    167: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t sound useful at all, lol.


    168: Anonymous Explorer


    Why is everything so weird in this thread?


    169: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s his fault, honestly.


    170: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾168


    Hasn''t it always been like this?


    171: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, pretty much.


    172: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m going to start checking out the anti-thread as a new hobby, lol.


    173: Anonymous Explorer


    Sounds fun.


    174: Anonymous Explorer


    Both Kisaragi-kun and the people in this thread are having a blast.


    175: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s having such a huge impact on society as an EX-ranked explorer.


    176: Anonymous Explorer


    Amazing (in the simplest terms).


    177: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s completely changed the way people view dungeon streams.


    178: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank is just on a whole other level, huh (brain malfunctioning).


    179: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe upper-floor streams will become more popular now that people are over the deep floors¡­ Nah, probably not.


    180: Anonymous Explorer


    No chance.


    181: Anonymous Explorer


    Upper-floor streamers should switch to gaming streams instead.


    182: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾181


    Someone already quit dungeon streaming because of him, so don''t rub it in.


    183: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, really? Lol.


    184: Anonymous Explorer


    How many dungeon streamers has Kisaragi-kun indirectly forced to retire?


    185: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably crushed the spirits of a lot of explorers too.


    186: Anonymous Explorer


    And he''s just out here streaming with the best of intentions!


    187: Anonymous Explorer


    Monsters like him just don''t understand how humans think, huh?


    188: Anonymous Explorer


    Ugh¡­


    189: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾312: Anonymous Explorer


    "When you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss also gazes into you."


    190: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾189


    Lol.


    191: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t deny it anymore. He really is a monster.


    192: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾189


    We all thought Kisaragi-kun was human back then¡­


    193: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾189


    Ah, the days when we still believed Kisaragi-kun was just a regular human.


    194: Anonymous Explorer


    Well¡­ looks like he''s graduated from being human, lol.


    195: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to want to be an explorer, but I don''t want to stop being human!


    196: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t worry, it''s not that easy to quit being human.


    197: Anonymous Explorer


    Only EX-ranked people stop being human.


    198: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Reiman is suddenly the victim of baseless accusations, lol.


    199: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really baseless, though?


    200: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, I''m starting to believe EX Reiman is also an EX-rank in the truest sense.


    201: Anonymous Explorer


    I won''t believe it until I see it with my own eyes.


    202: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to think EX Reiman was just a corporate drone.


    203: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede and Kamishiro Rion are both monsters, so it''s no use.


    204: Anonymous Explorer


    Is there any way they aren''t monsters?


    205: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re definitely scary people.


    206: Anonymous Explorer


    I fully expect EX Reiman to be just as insane!


    207: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, it''d be scarier if they were normal.


    208: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re EX-ranks. Of course they''re not normal.


    209: Anonymous Explorer


    A few weeks ago, I would''ve denied this, but after seeing Kamishiro Rion and Kisaragi-kun¡­ Yeah, it''s obvious now.


    210: Anonymous Explorer


    I thought they were just slightly above human, but they''re full-blown monsters now. Their only human trait is their appearance.


    211: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾210


    That''s brutal, lol.

 Chapter 54: Thread 6: The High-Stakes World of Dungeon Streamers and Taxesxes

    560: Anonymous Explorer


    What a crazy day it''s been.


    561: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, it''s just unfair.


    562: Anonymous Explorer


    So it''s true that EX-rank explorers are just unfair by nature.


    563: Anonymous Explorer


    No one could''ve predicted it would be this bad.


    564: Anonymous Explorer


    Really? (I don''t fully understand what happened.)


    565: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾564


    EX-rank explorers Kamishiro Rion and Kisaragi Tsukasa (UNKNOWN) just casually streamed themselves clearing past the 75th floor, which was the highest reached floor in Shibuya Dungeon, and made it all the way to the 86th floor.


    They ended the stream because, apparently, they were "just kind of tired."


    566: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾565


    That''s just pure unfairness wrapped in a package.


    567: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, other explorers are risking their lives out there¡­


    568: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, I was underestimating the EX-ranks.


    569: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d lose all my confidence watching that.


    570: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾569


    Just compare yourself to other humans, not monsters. Don''t compete with them.


    571: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, even the magic stones from the upper floors are contributing to infrastructure, so don''t feel too bad.


    572: Anonymous Explorer


    But deep-floor magic stones are way more efficient, so who even needs those upper-floor scraps?


    573: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾572


    Then you go and explore the deep floors yourself.


    574: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾572


    Go on, you try it.


    575: Anonymous Explorer


    Another dungeon newbie who''s never been inside, huh?


    576: Anonymous Explorer


    Dungeon newbies are around all year long.


    577: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just the downside of dungeon streaming being so popular now.


    578: Anonymous Explorer


    But, apparently, more young people are aspiring to be explorers because of dungeon streams.


    579: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably a plus for the country overall.


    580: Anonymous Explorer


    We always get guys like 572 popping up on these boards, though.


    581: Anonymous Explorer


    They''ve been here since the start.


    582: Anonymous Explorer


    Whether it''s dungeon-related or not, trash will always show up.


    583: Anonymous Explorer


    Today''s profits:


    Solo:


    £«20,000


    £­12,000


    Image


    I went to the mid-levels of Shibuya Dungeon, so I made some decent money, but I got injured and had to spend on treatment.


    584: Anonymous Explorer


    Explorers in general are full of dungeon newbies.


    585: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾583


    Nice. You still made a solid profit.


    586: Anonymous Explorer


    Even with some injuries, making +8,000 in a day makes me think pushing into the mid-levels is worth it.


    587: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, if you can make 15,000 without getting hurt in the upper levels, that''s pretty good too.


    588: Anonymous Explorer


    So if you make +8,000 daily, that''s +240,000 a month? After factoring in the tax on magic stones, how much do you actually take home?


    589: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably around 150k after everything.


    590: Anonymous Explorer


    You still have equipment costs to consider, though.


    591: Anonymous Explorer


    Considering all that, I guess I need to work a bit harder.


    592: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s my earnings report:


    Solo:


    £«70,000


    £­20,000


    Image


    593: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾592


    That''s a lot!


    594: Anonymous Explorer


    If you''re making +50,000 a day, that''s 1.5 million a month. You''re basically rich.


    595: Anonymous Explorer


    How did you do it?


    596: Anonymous Explorer


    I followed the advice Asagao-chan gave during Kisaragi-kun''s stream and went to the lower levels.


    597: Anonymous Explorer


    Whoa.


    598: Anonymous Explorer


    (Wait, you can just go to the lower levels like that?)


    599: Anonymous Explorer


    Nice.


    600: Anonymous Explorer


    (That''s honestly really impressive.)


    601: Anonymous Explorer


    So the stuff they were saying in the stream was actually helpful?


    602: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾592


    Are you rank C?


    603: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe I should push myself more.


    604: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾602


    Yeah, I just got promoted to C, but I rewatched Kisaragi-kun''s stream to memorize the monster behaviors and traits to watch out for. It helped a lot, though I still nearly died.


    605: Anonymous Explorer


    Rank C? That''s elite.


    606: Anonymous Explorer


    Straight-up impressive.


    607: Anonymous Explorer


    We need a mid-level exploration guide stream.


    608: Anonymous Explorer


    Give us tips on what to watch out for in the mid-levels.


    609: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun''s popularity is about to skyrocket again.


    610: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m going to subscribe to his channel.


    611: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to be a hater, but I''m a fan now. I need more dungeon info.


    612: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, haters getting won over by money.


    613: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, you need money to survive.


    614: Anonymous Explorer


    I hadn''t gone to the lower levels since almost dying the last time, but after watching that stream, I thought I could do it, so I pushed through. I avoided the super dangerous monsters and just stuck to ones I could handle. Even though I didn''t collect many magic stones, the ones I did get were bought for crazy high prices.


    615: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾614


    Thanks for the info.


    616: Anonymous Explorer


    That much of a difference, huh?


    617: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, the energy efficiency of magic stones from the lower levels is totally different.


    618: Anonymous Explorer


    I think I read something about that in a research paper.


    619: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the Kisaragi-kun craze about to hit?


    620: Anonymous Explorer


    Hasn''t it already?


    621: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s great that EX-rankers are giving out this kind of information.


    622: Anonymous Explorer


    Why don''t the rank S explorers ever come out like this?


    623: Anonymous Explorer


    At the end of the day, it''s all about hoarding resources.


    624: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like hardcore gamers who never share their gear setups. Same idea.


    625: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾624


    That''s such a selfish attitude.


    626: Anonymous Explorer


    Exactly.


    627: Anonymous Explorer


    On the other hand, why does Kisaragi-kun so freely share all this info?


    628: Anonymous Explorer


    Because he doesn''t care.


    629: Anonymous Explorer Stay tuned for updates on m-vl-em,pyr


    He probably doesn''t see the value in keeping it secret.


    630: Anonymous Explorer


    Rank S explorers are so petty.


    631: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s true.


    632: Anonymous Explorer


    Which is why they never make any real progress.


    633: Anonymous Explorer


    But it''s the same in every country, isn''t it?


    634: Anonymous Explorer


    The more skilled someone is, the less they''re interested in helping others. Kisaragi-kun just transcends all of that.


    635: Anonymous Explorer


    Seriously? I''m unfollowing all the rank S explorers on social media and following Kisaragi-kun instead.


    636: Anonymous Explorer


    He doesn''t post much information on social media, though.


    637: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun''s social media is just a daily life diary.


    638: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d still want to see that.


    639: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, he''s trying to imitate Kamishiro Rion''s style.


    640: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾639


    So he really is like her little brother?


    641: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun is going to do a "Dungeon Basics" class soon, so make sure to watch.


    Image


    642: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, are you one of Kisaragi-kun''s followers?


    643: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course (he made me 50k in one day, after all).


    644: Anonymous Explorer


    Can''t argue with that.


    645: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s making real money, there''s nothing to complain about.


    646: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾641


    Is it free? If I watch that, can I start making 50k a day too?


    647: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾646


    That''s not gonna happen.


    648: Anonymous Explorer


    If you don''t have an explorer license yet, you should go get it now.


    649: Anonymous Explorer


    We''re in the Great Explorer Era.


    650: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun mentioned a while back that it''s one of his EX duties to increase the number of explorers.


    651: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾650


    Looks like it''s working, huh?


    652: Anonymous Explorer


    So far, it''s just people who already had licenses pushing deeper into the dungeon.


    653: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s more than enough progress.


    654: Anonymous Explorer S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If the people stuck in the upper floors move to the mid-levels, that''s a big help for the country.


    655: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ll be exporting more magic stones abroad, so it''ll raise everyone''s standard of living here too.


    656: Anonymous Explorer


    If we had 100 Kisaragi-kuns, the country would be swimming in cash, maybe even get tax cuts.


    657: Anonymous Explorer


    If there were 100 of him, we''d be conquered first.


    658: Anonymous Explorer


    Not gonna lie, that seems entirely possible.


    659: Anonymous Explorer


    Too strong, lol.


    660: Anonymous Explorer


    Now I''m curious about what the other EX-rankers are like.


    661: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Reiman and the strongest granny?


    662: Anonymous Explorer


    The name "EX Reiman" alone makes me laugh, stop it.


    663: Anonymous Explorer


    How much did they earn from that stream, I wonder?


    664: Anonymous Explorer


    They obliterated every monster they met.


    665: Anonymous Explorer


    The size of those magic stones was ridiculous too.


    666: Anonymous Explorer


    The tiny pebble-sized magic stones we get just seem pathetic now.


    667: Anonymous Explorer


    Seeing fist-sized magic stones had me laughing.


    668: Anonymous Explorer


    In an hour, I made 70,000 by selectively fighting weaker enemies in the lower floors. Considering how different the deep floors seem compared to the lower floors, I bet they made millions from that stream alone.


    669: Anonymous Explorer


    Whoa.


    670: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s insane.


    671: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, Kisaragi-kun is always buying expensive stuff.


    672: Anonymous Explorer


    Living the luxurious life.


    673: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion also gives off the impression of someone who''s into high-end brands.


    674: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun apparently spends a lot of money just to keep the economy going since he has so much of it.


    675: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, he''s still in high school¡­


    676: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, older men are just hoarding wealth and trying to make more of it.


    677: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s boosting personal consumption rates on his own, lol.


    678: Anonymous Explorer


    The man single-handedly raising Japan''s economic stats.


    679: Anonymous Explorer


    The only reason Japan''s economy is doing well is because of dungeons. We used to rely on imports for food and fuel, but now we''re getting everything from dungeons, and despite being such a small country, we have tons of dungeons and four EX-rankers!


    680: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, Kamishiro Rion''s a slacker, though.


    681: Anonymous Explorer


    She needs to work harder.


    682: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Russia and China don''t have many dungeons and are losing to even Australia, making things really complicated for them.


    683: Anonymous Explorer


    The UN is falling apart too.


    684: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to go swimming at the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon.


    685: Anonymous Explorer


    China couldn''t go to war because they were too scared of Jinguji Kaede. Poor them, really.


    686: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾684


    But the ocean there attacks you.


    687: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop trying to play around in the deep floors.


    688: Anonymous Explorer


    Just go to a normal beach.


    689: Anonymous Explorer


    I just got my explorer''s license! They said I have potential, but I''m pretty sure that''s just flattery!


    690: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Welcome to hell.


    691: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Welcome to heaven.


    692: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾690


    £¾£¾691


    Which is it?


    693: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s both heaven and hell.


    694: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s definitely a place close to the afterlife.


    695: Anonymous Explorer


    You can make money, but you could easily lose your life.


    696: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    If possible, try to join a party. Soloing is only for those confident in their abilities.


    697: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Always prioritize your life over money. You''ll die easily if you don''t.


    698: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Even if you have money, you won''t be able to spend it if you''re dead. Make sure your gear is in top shape and listen to advice from veteran explorers.


    699: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾696


    £¾£¾697


    £¾£¾698


    Thanks for the advice! I''ll watch Kisaragi-kun''s dungeon basics class first before diving in. My goal is to make 10 million a year!


    700: Anonymous Explorer


    There are barely any explorers making 10 million a year, you know? Those earnings reports are just daily profit and loss¡ªequipment costs are a separate thing entirely.


    701: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾699


    It''s good to be motivated, but keep in mind that explorers are considered self-employed, so you''ll have to do your own taxes.


    702: Anonymous Explorer


    Transportation to the dungeon can be written off as a business expense, and as long as your gear isn''t super custom-made, you can deduct that too. If you get injured, you can probably deduct about half of your potion costs.


    That about covers it?


    703: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾702


    You forgot the explorer tax deductions.


    704: Anonymous Explorer


    Ask the Association about that.


    705: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾699


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Image


    Here''s a list of tax accountants Kisaragi-kun recommended. If you start making decent money, just hire one of these guys.


    706: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾705


    Thanks.


    707: Anonymous Explorer


    I wasn''t talking to you, but sure, whatever.


    708: Anonymous Explorer


    Doing taxes is a pain when you''re an explorer with a side job.


    709: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾708


    Don''t evade your taxes, okay?


    710: Anonymous Explorer


    There are actually a lot of explorers who accidentally evade taxes. It''s usually not intentional, they just don''t understand how to do their taxes properly.

 Chapter 55: Dungeon Basics: EX-Class Lecture!

    I''ve received an overwhelming number of interview requests. It''s probably because of yesterday''s deep-floor stream... but dealing with them is a hassle, so I wish Kamishiro-san could handle all of them.


    Both Kamishiro-san and I generally understand what we did, but we had no idea it would cause such a societal stir and become top news. I thought it would just hit some online news and cause a bit of chaos on message boards¡­ but when we got back to the Shibuya Dungeon entrance, the head of the Shibuya Dungeon branch was crouched over, holding his stomach like he was in pain.


    That, at least, made me laugh.


    "So, you''re staying at a different place this time?"


    "Because it was easier."


    The apartment near Shibuya Station that I usually use already had reporters swarming it, so I used magic to create an illusion and slip away. Specifically, I made it look like I was a different resident, so I could walk through the crowd of reporters. I own a few apartments in Tokyo, so I chose one not too far from Shibuya Station to meet with Asakawa-san.


    "I see... Personally, I''d rather ask about your relationship with Kamishiro Rion, though?"


    "...Is there something you want me to say?"


    "Heh¡­ even though you recruited me first."


    "I didn''t recruit Kamishiro-san, though?"


    "That''s not what I meant! Ugh..."


    I really don''t understand women.


    Asakawa-san seems a little sulky, but she''s not seriously angry, so I think it''s okay to leave it alone for now. Not that I know any other way to handle it. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "By the way, Asakawa-san, you''ve gotten a lot stronger."


    Read now on m_vl_em_p_yr


    "...Can you stop watching the archive while I''m right in front of you?"


    "Why? It''s just for record-keeping. There''s nothing to be embarrassed about."


    She''s looking at me like she can''t believe it, but if it''s so embarrassing, why do dungeon streams in the first place?


    "B-But more importantly... are you planning to stick with just dungeon exploration?"


    "No, I''ll be doing a variety of things. For now, the next stream will be a basic dungeon lecture, so I''m aiming to make it easy to understand for anyone watching."


    "I see. After that, let''s do a collab with me next."


    "Wait, what?"


    Did she just casually decide that without asking?


    "I want to announce that I''ll be one of the streamers under the company you''re setting up."


    "Well, that might be necessary... Alright, I understand. After the basics lecture, we''ll do a collab with you."


    Speaking of collabs, I noticed a bunch of collab requests piling up in my SNS messages. Most of the "carry me through" type requests I''ve been ignoring¡­ but there are a few from streamers I''m interested in.


    "..."


    "Something on your mind?"


    "No, it''s nothing."


    Among the collab requests, one was from someone I''ve been particularly interested in. After watching Asakawa-san''s dungeon streams, I''ve been keeping an eye on a few other promising dungeon streamers, and one of them sent me a request. I don''t want to miss this opportunity, so I''ll respond and set up a collab for a date that works.


    "So, what''s the plan for the next collab?"


    "I want to go to the lower floors of Hachioji Dungeon!"


    "...Well, okay."


    Maybe she got curious because I mentioned it earlier. Hachioji Dungeon doesn''t have much to do¡ªit''s a pretty flat dungeon¡ªbut it might be good for training.


    "Anyway, let''s have lunch!"


    "Yeah, sounds good. I have some pretty nice ingredients."


    "Huh?"


    Why is Asakawa-san smiling but frozen in place?


    "How much would those ingredients cost if you bought them?"


    "I don''t know? Depends on how the market auction goes."


    "Ahhhhhh!"


    So loud.


    A few days after the deep-floor stream with Kamishiro-san, I''ve completed a few requests as an EX explorer, and since I had some free time today, I''m at the top floor of Hachioji Dungeon. I wanted to go to Shibuya Dungeon, but since it''s summer vacation, the upper and top floors are way too crowded.


    Since there were too many people to hold the basics lecture there, I decided to do it at Hachioji Dungeon¡­ but I have a feeling this stream might get a little chaotic.


    "As planned, today I''ll be doing a basic dungeon lecture."


    : Been waiting for this.


    : Thanks!


    : I got my explorer license, but I didn''t know what to do next, so this is really helpful.


    : Hopefully, this will help more explorers get to the mid-level floors.


    : Well, that depends on talent.


    : Even just tips for the upper floors would be useful.


    "This stream is mainly for those working in the top or upper floors, or for people aspiring to become explorers. Today, we have a special guest here to help with the lecture."


    : Another guest, huh?


    : This guy barely does solo streams anymore.


    : Can''t be helped.


    : Who?


    : If it''s a dungeon lecture, it''s probably someone from the Association.


    : People were saying this is an Association project.


    "Our guest is EX Reiman, Aizawa Ryosuke."


    "So, is ''EX Reiman'' a popular nickname now? People keep calling me that on my SNS too."


    "I guess so? It''s probably because your social media is all business-related."


    "So you know the reason¡­ Why didn''t you tell me sooner?"


    : !?


    : EX Reiman?!


    : Another EX guest, seriously?


    : This guy''s streams are becoming legendary.


    : He is the legend, lol.


    : Lol, dungeon basics lecture (featuring two EX-rankers).


    : What¡­?


    The comment section is blowing up again. Honestly¡­ I did get the idea from how many viewers we had when Kamishiro-san joined as a surprise guest, but I didn''t expect Aizawa-san would actually come. He''s a really busy guy.


    "Hello, viewers of Kisaragi Tsukasa ch. I''m Aizawa Ryosuke, EX-ranked explorer and the chairman of the Japanese Explorer''s Union. Since this is my first time doing a dungeon basics lecture, I''ll be appearing as a guest today."


    : His introduction really sounds like a salaryman, lol.


    : As expected from the ex-salaryman EX.


    : He quit the company, but they still call him EX Reiman.


    : Poor guy.


    : He''s so cool, though.


    : Such an adult vibe.


    : Please take care of our clueless Kisaragi-kun.


    : Thank goodness.


    : With someone normal here, this lecture might actually be useful.


    Hey. I''ve been preparing all this stuff for today, and yet the viewers think I''m some wild idiot. I''m still better than Kamishiro-san, at least.


    "So, with the help of Aizawa-san, who usually assists explorers going into the lower and deep floors, today''s lecture will focus on the basics for the top and upper floors."


    "Looking forward to it."


    Man¡­ I''m glad Aizawa-san is here for this stream. With him involved, it''s not likely to devolve into a mess, and the lecture will be a lot more coherent than if I were doing it solo. It actually feels like I''m doing my job as an EX explorer. I think I''ll start doing dungeon strategy lectures more regularly.

 Chapter 56: Dungeon Basics: Mastering Magic Control!

    "First, let''s start with what''s essential for dungeon exploration."


    Even though we just say "dungeon," they''re divided into top, upper, middle, lower, and deep floors. Additionally, each dungeon¡ªwhether it''s Shibuya, Hachioji, or Takayama¡ªhas different environments and monsters, so the way to approach them differs. Still, there are things that are universally important in every dungeon.


    "In my opinion, the essential skill for dungeon exploration is¡­ controlling the magic within your body."


    "Hmm. That''s an interesting way to start a basics lecture."


    "Well, it''s also the first thing I learned."


    : So what does that mean?


    : Sure, controlling magic is important, but...


    : Is this about learning to use magic?


    : What happens when you control your magic?


    : Starting with a tough topic, huh?


    "It''s simple. Even if you just get a general sense of the magic flowing through your body and move it freely, as long as you can do that, you won''t suffer major injuries from upper-floor monsters."


    "Well, that''s true. The most important thing in dungeon exploration is surviving."


    : Prioritize survival, huh.


    : How do you circulate magic?


    : That depends on the person.


    : For me, it''s like rising from my stomach.


    : Isn''t that vomiting?


    : I imagine it flowing from my heart.


    : I thought it covered my body like a shield.


    Everyone''s image of magic differs. In my case, I imagine it flowing through my body like blood, and I can store it in specific places or speed up its overall movement.


    "If you send a lot of magic into your arms, you can crush rocks, and even if a monster bites you, it won''t leave a mark. It''s said that many young people born with abundant magic do this unconsciously."


    : Young people are dungeon elites, huh.


    : Damn, I need to become an explorer now since I''m still young.


    : If you''re in your 30s, you''re no longer "young."


    : Lol.


    : Among explorers, you''re practically an old man.


    : That''s rough.


    Stay updated with m-vl-em,py-r


    : So, controlling magic flow is key.


    "As I mentioned in a previous stream, magic is a versatile force... If you get the hang of it, you can even walk in the air."


    I imagine a surface of magic under my feet, solidified like a staircase, and start walking in the air. The extent of this ability depends on the person''s imagination, but at the very least, it''s possible to fly, like Kamishiro-san does.


    "Impressive... I''ve never seen someone handle magic so naturally."


    "Huh? But Aizawa-san can do this too, right?"


    "I can, but not that smoothly."


    : Wait, you can do that too?


    : So, there was a theory behind that floating trick.


    : Floating?


    : That wasn''t floating, that was flying.


    : He wasn''t hovering; he was flying at high speed.


    "That''s just because Kamishiro-san is crazy. I can''t fly that fast."


    : But you can still fly!


    : I tried copying that trick in the dungeon the other day, but it didn''t work.


    : Of course you can''t fly, lol.


    : Dude''s casually talking while walking through the air.


    What are the viewers even thinking while watching this stream?


    Even Aizawa-san is walking in the air as if he''s climbing stairs, so it proves that anyone can do it if they try. My grandma helped me polish my magic control skills early on, and it''s been a huge help. The fact that I can cut through deep-floor monsters with an unnamed sword is all thanks to controlling my magic.


    "For starters, you should at least practice the technique of hardening your body with magic. By the way, magic control training can be done at home. Try it before bed, like meditating for 10 minutes."


    "They say that circulating magic within your body improves health too, so even if you''re not aiming to become an explorer, it''s worth trying."


    : Oh, interesting.


    : If it''s good for your health, I might try it too.


    : You can do it at home?


    : I guess, since it''s all internal.


    : Seems easy.


    : I''ll give it a go since it sounds simple.


    : Is it hard for beginners? S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Is it like muscle training?


    "Even if you''re not used to it, it''s not too hard. You''re just moving magic inside your body, after all."


    Just like how no one gets tired from blood circulating in their veins, moving magic won''t wear out your body. It''s no more exhausting than taking a deep breath.


    "Once you can control your magic, just go beat up some upper-floor monsters, and you''ll be a full-fledged explorer."


    "Wait, hold on!"


    : Lol.


    : That escalated quickly.


    : That was fast, huh.


    : As expected.


    : EX-rankers are all muscle brains.


    : Basic lecture (just a little).


    : Well, to be fair, it''s somewhat helpful.


    : Is that it, though?


    Is that all, they ask?


    Well, yeah¡ªif you have decent magic control, you can take down upper-floor monsters with ease. There''s no need for more strategy beyond that. After that, just keep diving into dungeons, save up some money, and buy a better weapon. The middle floors are a different story, though, so be careful!


    "Sorry, everyone... That''s just how Kisaragi-kun is."


    : We knew it.


    : EX Reiman has it tough.


    : He''s the only sensible EX-ranker.


    : Truly the "Light of the EX."


    : Reiman, we''re counting on you.


    : Don''t base an entire livestream around magic control.


    : This basics lecture is a lie, lol.


    : Saw this coming a mile away.


    Ugh... what else is there to say? Like, "If an alarm goes off, evacuate immediately"?


    "R-Right... so, next, let''s talk about monsters'' traits and weaknesses."


    "For upper-floor monsters, there are no weaknesses worth talking about."


    "Hmm... I think that''s just you, Kisaragi-kun."


    : This guy...


    : "Upper-floor monsters aren''t a threat" (self-centered thinking).


    : Is he okay?


    : Turns out he really is out of touch.


    : People do get injured on the upper floors, you know?


    : Occasionally, someone even dies charging in recklessly.


    : Born to be EX, huh.


    "Were there any monsters on the upper floors of Shibuya Dungeon you were cautious about? Maybe just the hard ants?"


    "People have almost died from being bitten by those Steel Ants, you know?"


    "Wait, really? From the bite that barely leaves a mark, like a bug bite?"


    When I came back from my first dungeon dive and showed my grandma the spot where I got bitten by a Steel Ant, she just told me to put some steroid ointment on it.


    : Lol.


    : Dude, you''re just too tough.


    : Those ants can also spit acid, you know?


    : They''re a pretty significant threat.


    : If you''re not used to it, Steel Ants are a real pain.


    "...I see."


    "T-That''s true... If you can control your magic, they''re not much of a threat."


    "No, it''s fine... You don''t need to sugarcoat it."


    Honestly, I thought it was just internet people exaggerating as usual, but... Now that I think about it, I do remember Shinano-san telling me to be careful of the Steel Ants¡­ I just can''t recall it clearly.


    But now I''ve learned. Steel Ants aren''t just hard¡ªthey''re pretty strong. I''ll make sure to actually look up monster info for the next lecture instead of relying on my impressions.

 Chapter 57: Dungeon Basics: EX Reiman’s Perfect Combat Demonstration

    : How did you think you could do a basics lecture with such a lack of common sense?


    : The only good move you made was bringing in EX Reiman, right?


    : A basics lecture that ends with "control magic, then just punch stuff" is a joke, right?


    : It''s all over.


    : Do people who go to the middle floors really think like that?


    : Wouldn''t it have been better to bring in Asagao-chan instead?


    : Honestly, a lower-floor tutorial might''ve been more useful.


    "...Today is about the basics."


    : He''s determined to continue.


    : Gotta admit, his mental toughness is impressive.


    : Lol.


    : A basics lecture from an EX, surely useful...


    : Yeah, sure.


    : My stomach hurts from laughing.


    : Laughing too hard, man.


    Damn it... I was so determined to show a well-organized stream today, but I messed it up because I lacked just a little bit of common sense.


    "They say your understanding of dungeons changes after your first exploration. Even I didn''t think Steel Ants were tough at first."


    : Oh, come on¡­


    : [Breaking news] EX Reiman was also a natural-born EX.


    : Guess that''s just how it is.


    : When you can handle the middle floors, you start wondering why you struggled with Steel Ants at all.


    : Humans evolve, after all.


    : So, he was out of the norm from the start.


    "On the flip side, monsters I used to find threatening on the middle floors are easy to deal with now. With enough effort, anyone can become a successful dungeon explorer."


    "...But I don''t recommend going solo."


    In the end, dungeon exploration is like a gamble where you risk your life to make money. If you''re lucky, you''ll make a killing. If not¡­ you''ll die.


    That''s where having allies comes in. Even if you have bad luck, teammates can save your life. You might not make money, but if you''re alive¡­ there''s always hope. Humans can bounce back from anything.


    : Says the guy who solos the deep floors?


    : Sure, the rewards are less when you split it among more people, but it also means lower medical bills, so it''s give and take.


    : I recommend going in a party.


    : I want to join a party too¡­ but I have no friends. ^^;


    : Hang in there, friendless brother.


    : Doesn''t the association support stuff like that?


    "They do recommend forming parties, and if you contact the association, you can probably meet explorers looking for members... But since you''re dealing with humans, there''s always the risk of conflicts. So, it''s best to explore with people you know well."


    "And that''s why nobody forms parties?"


    Don''t assume people like me and the viewers, who read books in the corner of the classroom or got bullied, have friends to form a party with.


    Well... I wanted to form a party at first too, but it didn''t happen.


    : People you know?


    : Friends?


    : Oh no, the viewers are malfunctioning.


    : Most of Kisaragi-kun''s viewers are just like him.


    : I go exploring with five friends, though.


    : Having friends? That alone makes you a national treasure.


    : I thought friends were an urban legend. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Who are these "friends"?


    "Ah¡­ For people like that, it might be good to find someone online who shares your interests. Of course, be careful when meeting people from the internet..."


    Well, that''s a compromise, I guess.


    I would''ve tried to make some real friends if my grandma hadn''t forced me to be her disciple and learn shikigami techniques, which quickly led me to become EX-ranked. So, I don''t really know much about that stuff.


    "Maybe I should talk about mindset for dungeon beginners¡­?"


    "Mindset? Like ''retreat before you die''?"


    "In the association, we teach people to retreat before they even start feeling exhausted. If you''re unsure about that line, you can ask the association to send a high-ranked explorer as support, but it might feel too safe."


    : That''s exactly it.


    : Having a support role with you makes it hard to stay on guard.


    : Somewhere in the back of your mind, you start thinking, "I won''t die anyway."


    : Yeah, I totally get that.


    : Quite a few explorers here, huh?


    : Of course.


    : Honestly, having someone carry you is like shaving years off your life.


    : It''s practically suicide.


    "I often get messages asking me to ''carry'' them, but I just ignore those. If you don''t have the will or the determination to survive, you shouldn''t be exploring dungeons."


    : As expected, he gets those kinds of requests.


    : Even C-rank streamers get requests for carries.


    : How''s that even fun?


    : There are people who want to get carried in games, right? It''s the same thing.


    : What''s so fun about that?


    : Real explorers find joy in the challenge.


    "Dungeon exploration is fun. Reaching an unknown floor, discovering new things¡ªit really feels like an adventure."


    : Except, most of us don''t reach unknown floors.


    : He''s talking about deep floors, isn''t he?


    : Yeah, no thanks.


    : I just enjoy wandering around dungeons.


    : Studying monster behavior is fun too.


    : You need that RPG-like sense of adventure to really enjoy it.


    : Exploring the unknown¡­ Wait, didn''t you already reach the highest floor?


    Wait¡­ isn''t that it?


    For me, 80% of the fun of dungeon exploration is reaching unknown floors. I was seriously excited when I reached the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon the other day.


    "It was fun when we reached the 86th floor, right?"


    : Yeah, I guess.


    : It was fun, but¡­


    : So that''s what you''re chasing?


    : I kinda get it now.


    : It definitely felt amazing.


    : Well, aside from the danger.


    : Yeah, there''s a thrill to reaching places no one''s been before.


    : In that sense, that stream was a huge success.


    : Even looking at the numbers, it was a big hit.


    Anyway, I want people who dive into dungeons to find joy beyond just making money. For me, it''s reaching unknown floors, which might be a high bar¡­ but you can also enjoy defeating monsters.


    "Aizawa-san, what did you enjoy about dungeon exploration when you were a beginner?"


    "...I''d hunt monsters while thinking about how much the magic stones would sell for."


    : Lol.


    : I mean, yeah, that''s fun.


    : The mindset of a struggling salaryman.


    : He was still a salaryman back then.


    : In a way, that''s the best motivation.


    : Money is important, after all.


    : Ah, the basics.


    : This really is a basics lecture.


    : Yeah¡­ Everyone dreams of making money when they first dive into dungeons.


    T-True... I think I originally wanted to make money too. Part of it was because explorers looked cool, but another part of me wanted money I could spend freely as a high schooler.


    "Now, I enjoy teaching newer explorers, which is why I don''t go down to the deep floors as much. I don''t even take on many of the association''s requests anymore, despite being EX-ranked."


    "Really? But you''re so strong, Aizawa-san."


    In terms of close combat alone, Aizawa-san is probably the strongest among the EX-rankers.


    Aizawa-san is someone who fights purely by the book, with a solid, reliable approach. Of course, the "basics" he sticks to are on an EX-level scale, though.


    I kinda want to see him fight again¡­ Maybe we should talk about how to deal with weaker monsters. Original content from M-VL-em|p,y

 Chapter 58: Dungeon Basics: A True Explorers Approach

    "So, next is live combat."


    "I''m the one doing it, huh..."


    "Come on, it''s better this way. My fighting style isn''t exactly helpful for anyone to learn from."


    "Well, that''s true."


    : We knew it.


    : Kisaragi''s fighting style is useless as a reference, after all.


    : I still haven''t heard of anyone who''s managed to use shikigami techniques yet.


    : Doesn''t it require a lot of restrictions or something?


    : Shikigami techniques are pointless unless the user is strong themselves.


    : Can EX Reiman''s fighting style even be helpful?


    : Thanks to Kisaragi and Kamishiro Rion, everyone''s skeptical, lol.


    "I''ve heard my moves are fairly easy to follow, though..."


    "Well, we''ll find out by watching."


    There''s no doubt Aizawa-san''s movements serve as a good example for beginners. His fighting style is built on rock-solid fundamentals, so even I find it useful to watch. Hachioji Dungeon''s upper and top floors are perfectly flat, so it''s easy to see everything. I can clearly spot the two dogs coming toward us from a distance.


    "There are a lot of hound dogs that size in Hachioji Dungeon''s upper floors. They''re faster than the goblins in Shibuya Dungeon, but they''re more fragile, so once you get used to them, they''re pretty easy to deal with."


    : Dogs, huh?


    Read amazing stories on m_vl_em_p_yr


    : But beast-type monsters are usually strong.


    : They''re fast, that''s for sure.


    : I''ve been to Hachioji Dungeon, and yeah, it was hard to keep up with their speed at first.


    : They''re not strong, but they''re annoying.


    : Personally, goblins are easier for me.


    As the hound dogs approach, Aizawa-san readies the large silver shield he had been carrying in his left hand and a simple, unadorned double-edged longsword in his right. This is Aizawa-san''s fighting style.


    For dungeon beginners, the recommended style is usually to swap out the longsword for a spear. Since spears have more reach, it generally gives you an advantage.


    The hound dogs charge in, but Aizawa-san calmly blocks the first one with his shield and precisely thrusts his longsword into the throat of the second. Even against monsters, if they have a biological form, you can figure out the vital points. The neck and eyes are usually good targets.


    "Ha!"


    With a swift motion, he withdraws the longsword from the first hound dog''s throat, blocks the second''s bite with his shield, and again pierces the throat with his sword. Just like that, the fight is over.


    "How was that?"


    : Solid and reliable.


    : That''s a side-job explorer for you.


    : Easy to understand.


    : He takes out one enemy at a time carefully, huh.


    : Maybe it''s safer to block and then attack?


    : That was actually more helpful than I thought.


    : A thousand times more useful than Kisaragi.


    Hey.


    Sure, if it were me, I''d have decapitated both hound dogs before they even attacked, but I wasn''t planning to show off that much during this basics lecture.


    "What I just did is possible in Hachioji Dungeon because it''s flat and you can clearly see the two enemies coming. But in Shibuya Dungeon''s upper floors, where it''s more confined, you need to be constantly wary of ambushes. You''ll have to play it twice as carefully to stay safe."


    Being cautious of ambushes is common sense in dungeon exploration. You never know where monsters will come from in a dungeon, and if you don''t stay vigilant, you could die easily. It''s especially dangerous right after winning a fight.


    : Cool.


    : I want to try fighting with a shield and sword now.


    : But get a lighter shield than what Reiman uses¡ªit''s definitely heavy, lol.


    : True.


    : No injuries after getting bitten by a hound dog¡ªhe must have a good shield.


    "This shield? It''s made from the material of a super-hard golem found in the deep floors. The shield itself has magical properties that constantly disperse magic energy around it."


    "Hard golem? The one that appears in the deep floors of the Sapporo Dungeon?"


    "That''s the one. Kisaragi-kun, you really know your dungeons."


    "Only the deep floors, though." S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Only the deep floors?


    : What does that even mean, lol.


    : If you know the deep floors, surely you know the upper floors too, right?


    : This guy just skips the basics.


    : Did he tame a kirin or something?


    : I wouldn''t be surprised.


    "...Anyway, let''s not focus on me."


    I can''t exactly admit I usually use way more underhanded methods. I only go through dungeons properly when it''s a vague request from the association. If I have business in the deep floors, I''ll take shortcuts. Lately, though, I''ve been sticking to more straightforward methods, especially during streams or when accompanying Asakawa-san.


    "Oh, looks like more hound dogs are coming."


    "That''s rare. I thought in Hachioji Dungeon there''d be a few minutes of downtime after each fight."


    "It depends on the day."


    Yeah, dungeons fluctuate in terms of magical energy concentration, which affects monster spawn rates. The association gives rough estimates, but they''re only accurate about 60% of the time, so I wouldn''t rely too much on them.


    : Today''s forecast for Hachioji Dungeon said it''d be a heavy monster day.


    : Looks like they were right!


    : Finally, the forecast was on point.


    : They''re right more often than not, to be fair.


    : What do you think the association''s forecast is, a weather report?


    : Feels like an unreliable weather forecast to me.


    : I almost died because I didn''t believe it once¡ªtrust me, take it seriously.


    : Lol.


    : Can''t believe you survived.


    This time there are four hound dogs. Seems like today really is one of those heavy monster days... I did clear a bunch of them during a recent job, but I guess the numbers are back up.


    "With four of them, I''ll have to change my approach a bit."


    "I''ll be watching from the back."


    "Thanks."


    With four enemies, his previous strategy of just blocking and counterattacking wouldn''t work as well. I barely know anything about using shields, so I''m curious to see how Aizawa-san will handle this more cautiously.


    "Arrow."


    As the four hound dogs close in, Aizawa-san casually shoots a low-power magic arrow from his fingers. It''s a simple spell, just enough to disrupt one of the hound dogs, creating a gap between it and the other three.


    "Hah!"


    As I watched, Aizawa-san blocked the bite of the first hound dog with his shield, then thrust the shield forward, slamming it into the dog''s face and knocking it back. While the hound dog tumbled away, two more charged in, but Aizawa-san deftly cut both of their legs as he retreated.


    The fourth dog, still separated by the arrow, rushed in on its own and was swiftly blocked and countered with a fatal blow.


    : Impressive.


    : Wow.


    : Smooth moves.


    "Arrow!"


    Without missing a beat, Aizawa-san fired another magic arrow at the hound dog that had been knocked back by the shield, then quickly approached the two with cut legs and dispatched them by slashing their throats. The last dog was finished off soon after.


    "How about that? Even weak magic can be used as a distraction, and it''s a basic strategy that works even in the deep floors. I did it all myself this time, but if you were in a party, this approach would be even easier."


    : Super basic, yet super clean.


    : This proves you can become EX just by mastering the fundamentals.


    : A true explorer''s approach.


    : So cool.


    : A more "proper" explorer than Kisaragi-kun.


    : Loving this.


    : I''m officially an EX Reiman fan now.


    : Can Reiman start streaming too?


    : Other EXs should learn from this.


    Why am I getting roasted?


    Aizawa-san does way crazier stuff when he''s fighting in the deep floors!


    I''m going to drag him into the deep floors on stream next time. Then people will start talking about him the same way they talk about me and Kamishiro-san. At least when I first saw Aizawa-san fight as an EX, I thought he was inhuman.

 Chapter 59: The Realities of Being an Explorer: The Struggle for Survival and Pay

    "We still need to collect the magic stones."


    "¡­How much is a hound dog''s magic stone worth?"


    "Let''s see¡­ with this size and purity, it''s about 500 yen, I''d say."


    "Eh?"


    That''s cheap. Are top-floor monsters usually this low? Does that mean you need to kill 20 of them to make 10,000 yen?


    : Sounds about right.


    Discover hidden tales at m vl-em-py-r


    : A bit more than goblins, I guess?


    : That''s pocket money for a kid.


    : For a side job, it''s still a life-threatening one.


    : Not so much on the top floors, though.


    : Even though hound dogs are a hassle, they''re only worth slightly more than goblins?


    "¡­Could it be that the reason we don''t see more explorers is because of these prices?"


    "That''s probably it. The guild''s been asking for higher buyback prices, but not much has changed."


    "It''s a tough world¡­ No wonder there aren''t more mid-floor explorers."


    "Exactly."


    Even though the government paying more would probably be the most effective way to increase the number of explorers, Japan tends to hate the idea of spreading money around domestically. Especially now, when Japan has solidified its position as a dungeon superpower. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The country is making money, and the people are getting a bit wealthier, but the improvement in the economy is just numbers¡ªpeople don''t really feel it, like they said on TV.


    : If the government paid more¡­


    : If they''re exporting magic stones, they should pay more for them.


    : Totally.


    : They''re buying cheap from their own people and selling high abroad, huh?


    : It''s not funny.


    : But if they increase the price too much, more people will die.


    : That''s just the excuse they use to keep prices down.


    : In the end, it''s Japan itself that''s the real enemy, huh?


    : Somebody destroy the National Diet Dungeon already.


    What the heck is the National Diet Dungeon?


    Well, I get it. There''s definitely dissatisfaction with the government lately¡­ Explorers ranked B or higher often get jobs from the guild, but a lot of them refuse. I might feel a sense of duty as an EX, but when you''re underpaid for magic stones for so long, and then suddenly they''re willing to pay once you''ve proven yourself, I understand why people are bitter.


    "Kisaragi, how far did you climb the ranks again?"


    "Me? I went from E to EX."


    : Huh?


    : Did he just slap an X on his E-rank and call it EX?


    : Isn''t EX something you get after S-rank?


    : So EX isn''t just a natural progression from the lower ranks?


    : Seriously?


    : That seems unfair, but¡­ I guess he''s ridiculously strong, so it makes sense.


    "Right, you were recommended by Jinguuji, weren''t you?"


    "Yeah, that''s right."


    : Huh, so EX is a recommendation system.


    : What about Aizawa?


    : I always thought EX was something you achieved by ranking up normally.


    : Didn''t know that.


    I guess not many people know about this¡­ It''s treated like common knowledge among higher-ranked explorers.


    "There are two ways to become an EX-ranked explorer: either the Explorers Guild deems you exceptional, or you''re directly recommended by someone who is EX-rank. Jinguuji-san and I were promoted from S-rank by the guild."


    "I was recommended by my grandma¡­ Jinguuji Kaede-san, when I was still E-rank. Kamishiro-san, I think, was promoted from A by the guild."


    Suddenly being told to become her apprentice, forced into dungeon diving, and then mastering shikigami techniques¡­ When she said, "You''re EX now," with a satisfied look on her face, I had no idea what was going on.


    Now, I use my EX privileges left and right without hesitation, but back then, I didn''t know what to do with this sudden status. Aizawa-san was the one who taught me most of the basics of being an explorer. So, while I''m grateful to my grandma, I really respect Aizawa-san. Kamishiro-san, I trust because we''ve fought side by side, but respect¡­ not so much.


    : I dream of becoming EX, but I''m just not strong enough.


    : Honestly, if you''re thinking about becoming an explorer, you''d be better off getting a part-time job somewhere.


    : Hmm¡­ maybe.


    : If you''re just going to stick to the top floors, a part-time job is probably better.


    : Seriously, normal work is better.


    : Explorers don''t make much money.


    "As long as people say explorers don''t make money, the numbers won''t increase."


    "That''s probably why so many people start streaming or blogging."


    Because just being an explorer isn''t enough to live off of, people are trying to make extra income through ads and other sources.


    "The government does offer explorers special tax breaks and other incentives, but¡­ it''s not enough, is it?"


    "I guess it can''t be helped¡­ Being self-employed is just like that."


    This conversation is turning from a basics lecture into a rant about the struggles of being an explorer. I should get it back on track.


    "To summarize the basics: magic control, working in a party, aiming for one-on-one fights, being cautious of ambushes¡­ and, above all, prioritizing your life, right?"


    "Yeah. If you can do those things, you should be able to manage on the upper floors. As for mid-floor strategies¡­ we can save that for another time."


    "Let''s do this again."


    "That might be a good idea. The guild is concerned about the number of explorers, after all."


    : Nice.


    : That was fun in its own way.


    : Bring EX Reiman back next time.


    : Kisaragi''s streams are always interesting because he gets so many unique guests.


    : I wasn''t sure at first, but there was a lot of useful info.


    : I might actually try becoming an explorer.


    "Alright, let''s wrap up the stream. Everyone, take care of yourselves, and enjoy your dungeon explorations."


    "Good work, everyone."


    After the sign-off, I''ll just post on social media: "Next stream date is undecided, but (semi-forcibly) I''ll be collabing with Asagao-san next time." It probably won''t be long before the next one, though.


    "Thank you for today, Aizawa-san."


    "No problem. I thought it''d be interesting since you invited me. Even Kamishiro-san seemed to enjoy the stream."


    "You think so?"


    "Yeah¡­ but I do have some thoughts about not reporting your latest dungeon record and casually streaming the highest-floor run."


    I get it. Not reporting it was my fault. And casually streaming it¡­ well, that''s probably on both me and Kamishiro-san.


    "But I''m glad to see you''re still going strong as an explorer."


    "¡­Uh, I am EX-ranked, you know."


    "Everyone''s just worried about you because you''re still a high school kid."


    The world might see me as an EX, but Aizawa-san looks at me like I''m his nephew. And Grandma acts like a grandparent even though she says a lot of tough things. I guess in the explorer world, they see me as the youngest kid or something?

 Chapter 60: Thread 7: Dungeons, Dogs, and Underwater Nightmares

    597: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job watching live!


    598: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job!


    599: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job.


    Man, that was fun today too.


    600: Anonymous Explorer


    Was this board always this peaceful?


    601: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s pretty peaceful during the live streams.


    602: Anonymous Explorer


    Why though?


    Isn''t it usually the opposite?


    603: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Reiman was truly an EX.


    604: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾602


    No idea, man.


    605: Anonymous Explorer


    Reiman was really cool.


    606: Anonymous Explorer


    Reiman gave off that traditional vibe, which was quite likeable.


    607: Anonymous Explorer


    Fighting with a sword and shield gave him a knightly vibe, but I don''t think I could fight that smoothly.


    608: Anonymous Explorer


    Reiman''s steady style is probably meant for team-based combat.


    609: Anonymous Explorer


    He kept saying that teams are the way to go.


    610: Anonymous Explorer


    As the guild leader, he probably values the safety of explorers first and foremost.


    You could earn more by taking risks, but¡­


    611: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾610


    Yeah, but if you die, it''s game over.


    612: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it okay if we keep calling him Reiman¡­? We''ve all pretty much agreed on it now.


    613: Anonymous Explorer


    When it gets confusing, just add EX to it, like EX Reiman.


    614: Anonymous Explorer


    Poor Aizawa-san, being called Reiman even though he quit his salaryman job.


    615: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun said it himself, though. It''s because his social media is just work-related updates.


    616: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾615


    That part had me rolling.


    617: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾615


    "It''s because your social media is all work updates."


    "Did you know that was the reason all along? Why didn''t you tell me sooner?"


    That had me in stitches.


    618: Anonymous Explorer


    The dynamic of a nephew who knows but doesn''t tell, and a confused uncle¡ªit''s hilarious.


    619: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾617


    I haven''t even seen the archive yet, but I''m already laughing.


    620: Anonymous Explorer


    Now we know Kisaragi-kun''s relationships with each EX:


    Jinguuji Kaede (Grandmother)


    Kamishiro Rion (Older sister)


    Aizawa Ryousuke (Uncle)


    621: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾620


    It''s like they''re family.


    622: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾620


    They''re pretty close, huh?


    623: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    624: Anonymous Explorer


    No friends, but he''s got family.


    625: Anonymous Explorer


    Even Kisaragi-kun has at least some relatives, huh?


    626: Anonymous Explorer Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Are you guys confusing him with some kind of divine child?


    627: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾624


    Stating the obvious, huh?


    628: Anonymous Explorer


    How exactly do you control mana?


    629: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾628


    That''s basic stuff, man.


    630: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t do it if I can''t do it!


    631: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾628


    You know that feeling when you use magic, and mana flows? That''s it.


    632: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it true that channeling mana makes your body harder? I''m gonna try it.


    633: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾631


    Do you really feel something like that?


    634: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾633


    You must be a dungeon noob.


    635: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾633


    If you''ve been in a dungeon, used magic, and still can''t feel it, then you''re talentless. Quit being an explorer.


    636: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s too harsh, lol.


    637: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾635


    Huh?


    I''ll kill you, you f***ing loser.


    638: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾632


    It''s less about hardness and more like you create a thin layer of mana around your body. That''s how I picture it.


    639: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾638


    How you imagine the flow of mana is up to the individual.


    For me, it feels like sweat oozing out of my body.


    640: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾639


    Doesn''t that feel super gross?


    641: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾640


    Yeah, it does.


    642: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh, so it does, huh?


    643: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    644: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun said it feels like it''s inside his body.


    645: Anonymous Explorer


    Basically, it should be stored inside your body.


    646: Anonymous Explorer


    I looked it up online, and it said to breathe slowly and focus on the inside of your body. I''m gonna give it a try.


    647: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun tried to end the whole basics lecture with just mana control, but if you can master that, you can totally dominate the upper floors.


    648: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾628


    When you''re on the verge of dying in a dungeon, you naturally start doing it.


    Source: Me.


    649: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾648


    Wait¡­ what?


    650: Anonymous Explorer


    How to increase mana: Fight to the death with monsters.


    How to master mana control: Nearly get killed by monsters.


    Explorers are definitely a warrior race, huh?


    651: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾650


    You can''t survive without fighting, so yeah.


    652: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾648


    I had a similar experience. I could already control mana, but when I got cocky and went to the lower floors, I almost died. After that, my mana control got way better. The guild even praised me for it.


    653: Anonymous Explorer


    Aren''t you breaking your human limits?


    654: Anonymous Explorer


    So, conclusion: nearly dying is the solution, right?


    655: Anonymous Explorer


    No, that''s not right.


    656: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop giving life-or-death answers.


    657: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    658: Anonymous Explorer


    When you''re on the verge of death, you get a surge of strength, right? After experiencing that, your mana doesn''t go back to normal. So, it''s like you''re always in that heightened state.


    659: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾658


    How about not getting to the verge of death in the first place?


    660: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve definitely surpassed human limits at that point.


    661: Anonymous Explorer


    Fighting makes you stronger, and almost dying makes you much stronger. We really are a warrior race!


    662: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop it, stop it.


    People will start calling all explorers a warrior race.


    663: Anonymous Explorer


    But hey, we''re all living off the magic stones those warriors bring back, aren''t we?


    664: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s true, but still¡­


    665: Anonymous Explorer


    [Image]


    666: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    667: Anonymous Explorer


    What the heck¡­


    668: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾665


    £¾£¾"Next stream''s date is undecided, but (semi-forced) I''ll be collabing with Asagao-san."


    This guy is always doing collab streams.


    669: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾(semi-forced)


    Why do you let yourself get pushed around?


    670: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though he''s EX¡­ doesn''t he feel ashamed?


    671: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s EX, super strong, and can summon gods, but at his core, he''s just an awkward nerd like the rest of us.


    He''s weak against pushy women.


    672: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾671


    So, EX means he''s one of us?


    673: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    Lol.


    674: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    Lol.


    675: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    That''s great, let''s call him EX "one of us" from now on.


    676: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s graduated from "honorary nerd" to something even better.


    677: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    He''s matching with EX Reiman now, too.


    678: Anonymous Explorer


    So, what about Kamishiro Rion?


    679: Anonymous Explorer


    A menace.


    680: Anonymous Explorer


    A walking disaster.


    681: Anonymous Explorer


    A tyrant.


    682: Anonymous Explorer


    A natural disaster.


    683: Anonymous Explorer


    So far, not a single compliment like "beautiful" or anything.


    684: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    685: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just how it is.


    686: Anonymous Explorer


    Her sunny social media presence and that disaster energy are quite the contrast.


    687: Anonymous Explorer


    Now we all understand why Kisaragi-kun calls her a walking disaster in dungeons.


    688: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao-chan really doesn''t give up, huh?


    689: Anonymous Explorer


    She replied to him on social media right away. I laughed so hard.


    690: Anonymous Explorer


    Read the continuation on m_v_l_e_m_p_y_r


    She''s a hardcore Kisaragi-kun fan, huh?


    691: Anonymous Explorer


    She even claimed to be his top disciple the other day.


    692: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾691


    I saw the anti-thread go wild because of that.


    693: Anonymous Explorer


    Nobody needs an anti-thread about this chaotic place.


    694: Anonymous Explorer


    That anti-thread is so chaotic, I actually like it.


    695: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a mess with unicorns and trolls, so gross.


    696: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s really fun to just watch, though.


    697: Anonymous Explorer


    I thought I''d just check it out casually, but it was so crazy I ended up laughing my head off.


    698: Anonymous Explorer


    I was more focused on how empty the Hachioji Dungeon was than the content of the basics lecture.


    699: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t the Hachioji Dungeon always like that?


    700: Anonymous Explorer


    Have you ever been to the Hachioji Dungeon?


    You should go at least once.


    You won''t meet anyone at all.


    701: Anonymous Explorer


    In a way, it''s a dungeon that''s kind to introverts.


    702: Anonymous Explorer


    Kind to introverts (but you only make about half the money you do in Shibuya Dungeon).


    703: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    No wonder no one goes.


    704: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though the magic stones are cheap, on top of that, there are fewer monsters, so no one wants to go.


    705: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s a theory that no one explores the lower floors because it''s just not profitable.


    706: Anonymous Explorer


    I saw Kisaragi-kun on social media saying, "Since no one''s at the Hachioji Dungeon, maybe I''ll fully conquer it next time."


    Apparently, he''s only gone down to the 45th floor.


    707: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s rare for Kisaragi-kun.


    708: Anonymous Explorer


    He must''ve been really bored.


    709: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, the scenery never changes from the top floor to the bottom, so it''s probably mind-numbing.


    710: Anonymous Explorer


    Seriously, that place can mess with your head. You lose track of which floor you''re on. The only thing that tells you where you are is the sign put up by the Explorer''s Guild at each layer transition¡ªother than that, everything looks the same.


    711: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t that like a never-ending hell?


    712: Anonymous Explorer


    Pretty much.


    713: Anonymous Explorer


    No way I''m going there.


    714: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t want to step on an obvious landmine.


    715: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, unless it''s somewhere like the Shibuya Dungeon or Takayama Dungeon, where you''re guaranteed to make money, the fewer people there are.


    716: Anonymous Explorer


    Have we talked about one of the most deserted dungeons in the country yet¡ªNagoya Dungeon?


    717: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾716


    Go away.


    718: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾716


    Seriously, come back when the Nagoya Dungeon is even remotely explorable.


    719: Anonymous Explorer


    I have no idea about the Nagoya Dungeon at all.


    I''m confused.


    720: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾719


    It''s a super valuable dungeon that produces rare metals and stuff.


    You should go at least once.


    721: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾720


    Stop trying to throw someone into hell so casually.


    722: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh?


    Can someone explain, please?


    723: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾722


    From the 11th floor down, everything''s underwater.


    724: Anonymous Explorer


    £ßÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈË£ß


    £¾ Everything''s underwater from the 11th floor £¼


    £þY^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y£þ


    725: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾723


    Is that for real?


    726: Anonymous Explorer


    Yep, for real.


    727: Anonymous Explorer


    How are you supposed to explore that?


    728: Anonymous Explorer


    You can''t. That''s why it''s a problem.


    729: Anonymous Explorer


    Somebody drain the water already!


    730: Anonymous Explorer


    Not gonna happen!


    731: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s have Kisaragi-kun do something about it.


    He''s EX, so he should be able to handle it, right? (Leaving it to him entirely.)


    732: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s send him a reply on social media and ask him!


    733: Anonymous Explorer


    "Please conquer the Nagoya Dungeon."


    734: Anonymous Explorer


    Has Kisaragi-kun ever even been to the Nagoya Dungeon?


    735: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t the official stance basically that the Nagoya Dungeon might as well not even exist?


    736: Anonymous Explorer


    As someone living in Aichi Prefecture, I can confirm the Nagoya Dungeon is so bad that I just go to Takayama Dungeon instead.


    737: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re just sneaking off to Takayama, huh?


    738: Anonymous Explorer


    What are we going to do if he says, "The depths of the Nagoya Dungeon are hell too"?


    739: Anonymous Explorer


    Considering everything from the 11th floor down is submerged, how would that even work?


    740: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d still want to see it.


    741: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s Kisaragi-kun, so he could probably figure out how to breathe underwater, right? (Random assumption)


    742: Anonymous Explorer


    What do you even think EX explorers are?


    743: Anonymous Explorer


    Monsters.


    744: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, honestly, you''re not wrong.


    745: Anonymous Explorer


    Now that the basics lecture has made it easy for us to handle the upper floors, you all better get to the 20th floor of Nagoya Dungeon.


    746: Anonymous Explorer


    The basics lecture didn''t include underwater breathing¡­ Sorry!


    747: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol. Seaweed jokes for days.

 Chapter 61: Dreaming of Global Dungeons

    "Nagoya Dungeon?"


    For some reason, my social media is flooded with replies like, "Have you been to the Nagoya Dungeon?"... It''s probably something from a forum or discussion where my name came up.


    Nagoya Dungeon, huh? That''s the one that''s submerged from the staircase between the 10th and 11th floors, and it''s said to be impossible for humans to conquer. It''s easy for people to say things like "Go explore it" or "Have you been there?" without knowing the reality.


    "''I''ve only been down to the 34th floor,'' and send."


    Alright, it''s time to head out. I promised to go shopping with Asakawa today, so I should probably leave the house soon. It seems like the media is still hanging around my apartment near Shibuya Station, so I''ll continue commuting to the dungeon from this other place for a while.


    Still, why are we going shopping together when we already planned to do a collab stream at Hachioji Dungeon? Asakawa has tons of friends. She could go shopping with someone who''s more fashion-conscious instead of a guy who''s constantly exploring dungeons. But since I''m going out with a woman, I should at least make sure I''m presentable.


    Normally, I just run errands in my casual wear because I can''t be bothered, but this is different.


    "So, my friends are all busy studying for exams... I can''t make plans with anyone."


    "Well, you are a high school senior in the middle of exam season."


    "Yeah... Somehow, just doing whatever I want every day makes me feel a little guilty."


    "I don''t think you need to feel guilty. You''re putting your life on the line as an explorer, after all."


    We started off just casually chatting while walking, but it''s summer. It''s getting close to the Obon holiday, and with the heatwave, it became impossible to hold a conversation. So we ended up at a caf¨¦ near Shibuya Dungeon, as usual. I noticed a few media people near the dungeon, but we managed to blend in with the crowd and not get noticed.


    It seems the reason Asakawa invited me shopping is because her friends are too busy with exams. Honestly, I''d forgotten about it, but as a high school senior, this summer break is the peak season for exam prep. People going to cram schools are probably studying hard, and many others are switching from club activities to full-time studying.


    "So, I wanted to go shopping today, but... I also want to hear more dungeon stories."


    "Dungeon stories? I can only talk about the deeper levels, though."


    "That''s what''s so valuable! You''re the only person I know who can go that deep."


    "Isn''t it abnormal to know someone like that?"


    I don''t know if I''m the best person to say this, but... even S-rank explorers are rare.


    Now, even though she wants to hear dungeon stories... is there anything worth talking about? I could just tell her to watch my archive of Shibuya Dungeon streams for that. There''s no deep level in Takayama Dungeon, so maybe Sapporo Dungeon?


    "I''m personally curious about that Australian dungeon you mentioned before!"


    "...Oh, you mean the Alice Springs Dungeon?"


    Alice Springs is a town located in Northern Territory, near the center of the Australian continent. It used to have a population of less than 30,000, but thanks to the dungeon, it''s become more populated. The climate is typically Australian, with July being the coldest month and January the hottest. They have clear distinctions between summer and winter.


    "That dungeon has a unique terrain, so it''s pretty famous in the explorer community. It''s also popular with foreign streamers."


    "What''s it like?"


    Oh... Asakawa''s really into exploring dungeons now. Normally, if you start talking about Alice Springs Dungeon, most people would just respond with, "Oh, interesting." But she''s listening with her eyes lit up.


    "The main feature is that the dungeon is structured like a maze."


    "A maze?"


    "Yeah. From the top layer, it''s already set up like a web, with only one path leading down to the next floor. Monsters spawn along that path. And that structure continues all the way to the deeper levels."


    "Wow... There are so many different kinds of dungeons. I''ve only been to the regular ones, so I had no idea."


    She probably thinks of the Shibuya Dungeon as a "regular" dungeon, with its constantly changing terrain. But a dungeon with landscapes as varied as Shibuya''s is pretty rare. At least, that''s true for the deeper floors. The upper and middle levels are standard fare.


    "Wouldn''t it be fun to explore a maze?"


    "The issue is that there are so many corners, so you''re constantly at risk of a monster ambush. It''s considered one of the tougher dungeons."


    "Oh, right. But once you memorize the right path through the maze, it should be easy, right?"


    "That''s the thing¡ªthis dungeon is special. The layout of the maze changes periodically. So each time it does, local explorers have to go back in and solve the maze all over again."


    The constantly changing structure of Alice Springs Dungeon is a unique feature not found in other dungeons. When the maze changes, the Australian Explorers'' Association sends in many explorers to find the correct path to the lower levels. Some explorers even sell maps of the correct path at high prices. It''s impressive they come up with these ideas. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But Australia, huh... I heard the country wasn''t that developed before the dungeon appeared."


    "That''s kind of a misleading way to put it... But yeah, compared to other developed nations at the time, they were a bit behind."


    Previously, Australia''s developed cities were all on the coast. The central areas were plagued by desertification and extreme heat. Now, though, they don''t need massive power plants because magic stones can generate electricity, and places like Alice Springs can survive without needing to transport those stones.


    It''s like a local production and consumption model, which is how Alice Springs has managed to thrive.


    "Man, that sounds so cool... I want to explore dungeons all over the world someday." Stay immersed with m-vl-em-py-r


    "Is that your dream?"


    "Yeah. I''m really getting into dungeon exploration."


    I''m glad to hear that.


    She''s come a long way from when she was stuck at the entrance of the lower floors. Having more explorers who are passionate like this can only be good for Japan.

 Chapter 62: A Guide Through Hachioji Dungeon

    "Yes."


    : Good morning.


    : "Yes?" That''s not a proper greeting.


    : At least greet us properly.


    : Now he''s even slacking on his greetings.


    : You know, people say that if you can''t even greet others... blah blah blah.


    : What''s this "blah blah blah" supposed to mean?


    : Even the viewers are being lazy with their comments.


    "Good morning."


    : Well done.


    : It''s impressive that you can reflect on your behavior.


    : Good job greeting us properly.


    : The comment section sounds like a senior citizen''s club, lol.


    : Is Kisaragi-kun in elementary school?


    : If I don''t greet the old folks in my neighborhood, they nag at me nonstop.


    : That just sounds like a grumpy old person, lol.


    Why are the viewers so strict about greetings? Maybe they''re trying to follow that whole "Always greet others politely" thing we learned in elementary school. If that''s the case, sorry, but I used to rebel against my teachers, so I don''t really get it. Thanks to all the time spent in dungeons, I haven''t had much contact with teachers in a while anyway.


    "As I announced, today''s stream is... half-forced..."


    "I''m collabing with him!"


    : Asagao-chan, good morning.


    : Wow, so energetic!


    : The energy difference between Kisaragi-kun and Asagao-chan, though.


    : Love this odd duo.


    : Long time no see.


    : So, no two-part stream today?


    "Nope, no two-part stream today! I''m just crashing Kisaragi-kun''s stream!"


    "Why are you so hyped up? You''re usually not this energetic."


    "Uh, I''m supposed to be a high-energy streamer, right?"


    Really?


    You just look like someone who''s always diving into dungeons and fighting monsters to me.


    : Asagao-chan normally?


    : She''s always high-energy when fighting monsters.


    : Yeah, she''s definitely energetic.


    : Wait... is Asagao-chan another EX-level fighter?


    : A battle maniac, huh...


    : I already knew that.


    : Lol.


    : I was only focused on Kisaragi-kun, but now I''m curious about Asagao-chan. Gonna subscribe to her channel.


    "Oh, thanks for subscribing!"


    "Today, we''re heading to Hachioji Dungeon." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "That''s fast! No more intro? No greetings or anything?"


    "Do we even do those on this channel?"


    : Nope.


    : I remember once, the stream just started deep in the dungeon without any intro, and then ended suddenly.


    : He always starts so abruptly.


    : I actually like how he jumps straight into the topic.


    "See? That''s how it is."


    "So that''s a ''style'' now?"


    Is having a streaming style really a thing?


    Whatever... Today, I''m here at Hachioji Dungeon with Asakawa. Even though I usually avoid this place, this is my third time here in a short period¡ªfirst because of the guild request, then the basic training stream with Aizawa-san, and now today. Even the receptionist at Hachioji Dungeon looked surprised to see me again.


    "So, summer vacation is almost over, but are you all keeping up with your homework?"


    : I''m not a student, actually.


    : Busy with work!


    : Ah, summer vacation... those were the days.


    : Isn''t this channel''s demographic a bit older?


    : Can''t help it.


    : Asagao-chan''s channel has a lot more students watching, though.


    : Nope, I haven''t done my summer homework.


    "Seems like your viewers are mostly working adults. Mine is more student-heavy... It''s kind of refreshing to see the difference." Experience the best from m|v|l|e|mp|y|r


    "I think it''s not just students, but also a fair number of full-time explorers. That''s my impression from reading the comments."


    : Bingo.


    : How do you even know that?


    : Full-time explorer here, diving into the lower floors.


    : C-rank explorer here.


    : I''ve been exploring the middle floors.


    : Kisaragi-kun''s audience is mostly full-time or part-time explorers, huh?


    I can''t really keep up with the English comments since I can''t read them, but they''re here too, enjoying the stream in their own way. Even my highlight videos get a fair amount of English comments.


    By the way, I have some officially approved clip channels. I don''t really care if people make clips without permission, but having a few official ones makes things easier.


    "So, today''s goal is to reach the lower floors of Hachioji Dungeon! Kisaragi-kun told me the lower floors are just like the middle floors, with good visibility and not too dangerous, so it''s a great place to explore!"


    "Why did you make me come along again...?"


    : You''re her mentor, so step up.


    : More like her chaperone, lol.


    : Lol.


    : People keep calling Kisaragi-kun Asagao-chan''s "chaperone," but I''ve never seen him help her in a stream.


    : Have you ever saved her during training in the lower floors?


    "Nope."


    I mean, I usually just take out any dangerous enemies before they even get close to her. Based on Asakawa''s current skills, I only let monsters she can barely defeat or handle slip through. Sure, she might be on the edge of dying, but you don''t get stronger unless you face tough challenges.


    With that settled, Asakawa said she wanted to fully explore the dungeon, so instead of summoning Kirin to quickly take us to the lower floors, we''re walking from the top, heading straight for the stairs. We''re taking out monsters with magic as we go. Unlike during the basic training stream, there aren''t that many monsters, so it really feels like the usual Hachioji Dungeon.


    "Wow, there really aren''t many monsters here. And the ground is totally flat."


    : Is this Asagao-chan''s first time in Hachioji Dungeon?


    : The first time here really is surprising.


    : It''s super safe, honestly, with the flat terrain and low monster count.


    : Agreed.


    : I sometimes go to Hachioji Dungeon to challenge tougher monsters.


    : It''s safe because you can see everything around you.


    The biggest advantage of Hachioji Dungeon, really. Because you can see so far ahead, it''s a safe place to explore, and that lets you face enemies you''d normally avoid head-on. It''s a great place to test your limits as an explorer. Of course, there''s always the risk of death when fighting stronger enemies, so you still have to be cautious.


    "Kisaragi-kun, you''ve only gone as far as the 45th floor in Hachioji Dungeon, right?"


    "Yeah... pretty much."


    "Why? You''re such a deep-floor junkie."


    Hey, what''s with "deep-floor junkie"? You''re making it sound like I''m obsessed with going to the deepest parts of dungeons and have no interest in anything else.


    I only explore the deeper floors because I have the skill to do so... though, okay, I do like the deep floors.


    : Kisaragi-kun is always diving into the deepest floors.


    : Why didn''t you go all the way to the bottom of Hachioji Dungeon?


    : Was there something weird down there?


    : Like monsters?


    : Or maybe the terrain?


    : If Kisaragi-kun can''t handle a monster, we''ve got a big problem.


    "The reason I didn''t go deeper...? Honestly, I just got bored halfway."


    : You''re no better than Kamishiro Rion, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Seriously...?


    : Do you realize you''re on the same level as Kamishiro Rion now?


    : Kindred spirits, apparently.


    Ugh... I can''t argue with that!

 Chapter 63: Inhuman Abilities on Full Display

    "By the way, I haven''t mentioned this yet, but... After I graduate from high school in March, I''ve decided not to go to college and get a job instead."


    : Is this really the place to announce that, on Kisaragi''s channel?


    : Wouldn''t it be better to say this on social media?


    : Lol.


    Knowing where she''s planning to work, I have a feeling this might stir up some drama... but I wonder.


    "Fufufu... I''m going to work for the company Kisaragi-kun is planning to start! I''ll be both a streamer and part-time office worker!"


    : This is going to make the anti-threads blow up again.


    : Kisaragi''s anti-thread is about to get even more heated.


    : Congrats on the job decision! (lol)


    : Nepotism hire!


    : Well, she''s a skilled streamer, so it makes sense.


    : What about Kamishiro-chan?


    "There''s no way I''d ever let her in."


    Why would I deliberately step on a landmine? Bringing her on as a streamer would only cause endless trouble. Since I''m going to be the CEO, there''s no way I''d recruit someone like her. A few collaborations here and there are more than enough.


    : Yep, makes sense.


    : We all saw that coming.


    : You just know she''d cause drama.


    : I can already picture her messing things up.


    : Even the viewers know how chaotic that would be, lol.


    "So, my career path survey answer is... employment!"


    "And I guess I''ll be the CEO?"


    "Pretty sure it counts as regular employment."


    : Career aspiration: CEO.


    : How dumb do you have to be? Exclusive content from m,v lem|p,yr


    : Don''t write something weird like that and confuse your teachers.


    : Lol.


    : I''ve never seen someone write something so odd on a career survey.


    : It sounds like when kids write "I want to be a bride."


    Well, I guess it counts as regular employment... or maybe self-employment?


    As we continue chatting aimlessly, we walk through the Hachioji Dungeon, eventually reaching the entrance to the lower floors at the 41st level. Since there weren''t many monsters, it didn''t take nearly as long as it would in Shibuya Dungeon. As usual, we didn''t run into any other people.


    "...As always, this dungeon feels so empty."


    "The transportation is decent, but yeah..."


    : You can barely earn enough here to cover train fare and lunch, so yeah...


    : Hachioji Dungeon is basically a punishment.


    : No money, no change in scenery... it''s just dull.


    : The amount of small talk today was longer than usual.


    Well, there''s nothing much to do when heading toward the lower floors, so more chit-chat is inevitable. Today''s stream is probably going to be more of that. There just aren''t enough monsters in the lower floors to keep things action-packed.


    "Since I''ve been spending so much time in the lower floors of Shibuya Dungeon, the lower floors here feel... lonely."


    "But the monsters are still definitely lower-floor strength. They''re just weaker than those in Shibuya Dungeon."


    "Yeah... but it''s so open here."


    Hachioji Dungeon is famous for its barren, overly spacious terrain, which feels more like an open field than a dungeon. It''s so open that you can see everything around you with ease, and even though we''re underground, it''s as bright as if LED lights were illuminating the space. The brightness is probably because of the magical crystals embedded in the walls, glowing white.


    It feels more like a man-made underground experiment space than a natural dungeon.


    : You can see all the monsters in the area.


    : There''s a big Hound Dog over there.


    : Is that even still a Hound Dog? S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : That thing''s way too big.


    : Isn''t "Hound Dog" supposed to mean hunting dog? At that size, it''s more like a hunting beast.


    : But even though it''s bigger, it''s still just a regular Hound Dog.


    : What exactly is it hunting?


    : Humans, obviously.


    "Technically, it''s classified as a Hound Dog. Even if it''s huge."


    I don''t know much about monster classifications. Globally speaking, I doubt any country has fully researched monster biology or structure. It''s mostly because they turn into ash after being killed, leaving only a magic stone behind. With no bodies to examine, the only way to study them is through live capture, and you can only capture monsters up to the middle floors at best.


    "Has it noticed us?"


    "Since the area''s so open, just like we can see it, it can see us too."


    "That makes sense."


    "Well... It''s not a problem if all it does is run at us from that distance."


    Hound Dogs have incredible leg strength, and since their size already exceeds a human''s height, they''re probably running at speeds comparable to a car. But even at that speed, it''s running straight toward us, so as long as we see it, we can deal with it from a distance using magic.


    Asakawa forms her hand into the shape of a gun, concentrating magic at her fingertips. What''s surprising is that instead of compressing the magic after forming it, she compresses it right from the start. I wasn''t sure it was possible, but seeing her do it in front of me proves that it is.


    The beam of compressed lightning magic she fires pierces the Hound Dog''s head in an instant. The initial speed of compressed lightning magic is no joke.


    "Nice shot, huh?"


    "Yes, indeed."


    When it comes to magic, Asakawa is unbelievably precise. The other magic users I know are my grandmother, who relies on brute-force high-power magic, and Kamishiro, who just bulldozes through with sheer speed... so Asakawa seems especially refined by comparison.


    : Wow.


    : Asagao-chan has gotten so strong...


    : The Asagao-chan who used to barely survive the lower floors is gone now.


    : Has she finally crossed into the realm of the inhuman?


    : The first inhuman also used magic...


    "Who''s this ''first inhuman''... Wait, are you talking about me!?"


    : Yeah, of course.


    : What are you surprised about?


    : You''re the original "inhuman" on this channel.


    : So far, two inhuman beings have appeared on your stream, right?


    "What about Aizawa-san?"


    : He hasn''t shown his inhuman side yet, so he''s still safe.


    : Aizawa-san is definitely still human.


    : EX Salaryman is fine.


    Why are they so nice to Aizawa-san?


    Are most of the viewers just salarymen?


    Well, whatever. If the viewers ask for it, as the channel''s host, I guess I have to oblige. I''m not as skilled with magic as Asakawa, and I can''t match Kamishiro''s power, but... I can at least try compressing my magic.


    I''m better with wind magic than lightning, so I''ll compress wind and use it as a sharp blade, just like Kamishiro does.


    Without a sound, I use compressed wind to sever the head of another Hound Dog that was sneaking up behind us. The cut isn''t as clean and elegant as Kamishiro''s, but it''s enough to deal with a lower-floor Hound Dog.


    "How''s that?"


    : Yeah, you''re definitely abnormal.


    : Asagao-chan, the road to EX is long.


    : Seeing that just reminded me how crazy EX-level explorers are.


    : Do you have eyes on the back of your head?


    : Lol.


    : You don''t even need your shikigami to be OP.


    : And you can summon gods, too.


    Huh?


    I used magic because the viewers wanted to see it, and now I''m being called inhuman? EX explorers aren''t inhuman, they''re just considered exceptional among other explorers.


    Besides, shikigami can only use about a tenth of their summoner''s strength, so of course the summoner is stronger. And the gods I summon? That''s just borrowing power from "something else," so it doesn''t count as shikigami anyway.


    "Haha..."


    Asakawa, what''s with that awkward laugh?

 Chapter 64: Unseen Threats

    "The official deepest floor of the Hachioji Dungeon... If I remember right, it''s somewhere around the 60th floor. The progress stops right where it borders the deep layers, and no one bothers to go further because the dungeon isn''t profitable. So, the deepest floor never gets updated, and people just use the excuse that it''s not an important dungeon to avoid further exploration.


    Well, it really isn''t important, to be fair."


    Asakawa probably got interested in Hachioji Dungeon because I''ve been here a few times for streams and missions, so this might be the last time we dive into this place.


    "We''ve made it to the 45th floor... This is your first time here too, right?"


    "Yeah, for the past few floors. But... the monsters are few, and even when they show up, they''re weak, so it''s not fun at all."


    : Complaining about no monsters like a real battle maniac, huh?


    : But it really is boring, though.


    : It''s the truth.


    : Can''t help it.


    : It''s Hachioji Dungeon, after all.


    : Stop using Hachioji Dungeon as a synonym for boring.


    : Don''t talk trash about my local dungeon!


    : You should just take a train to Shibuya Dungeon, bro. Read today on m,v,l,e,mpyr


    Looks like the viewers are treating today''s stream as more of a casual chat session. Seriously, though, there''s nothing here in Hachioji Dungeon. Honestly, I''m a bit impressed someone made it to the 60th floor. They must be someone who lives just for the thrill of updating the deepest floor.


    I enjoy exploring unknown floors, but with a dungeon that stays this bland all the way down, I can''t bring myself to care enough to reach the bottom. Maybe if I run out of stream ideas, I''ll tackle the deepest floor.


    "Huh?"


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Uh... there''s a monster ahead, but..."


    A monster? I can''t see anything at all... What is Asakawa seeing?


    "It''s all hazy and hard to make out... It''s almost like it''s transparent?"


    : Asagao-chan, finally seeing ghosts?


    : Well, it is a dungeon.


    : Dungeons do have a high death count.


    : Haven''t heard of any ghost stories in dungeons, though.


    : People are too busy risking their lives to worry about ghosts in a dungeon.


    : True.


    : Has anyone even died in the lower floors of Hachioji Dungeon?


    : Probably not.


    : Lol.


    : This place is too much of a ghost town.


    "No, I''m serious, I can see it... for real."


    "Hmm."


    Now that I think about it, Asakawa has that unique ability to visually perceive magic. She described my magic as "serene" when we first met, so I have no idea what it looks like to her. But maybe there''s a being made entirely of magic out there.


    "Try attacking it."


    "O-Okay."


    Asakawa nods at my suggestion and conjures a small fireball in her hand, tossing it forward. It should''ve just hit the floor since nothing''s there... But before it could land, it looked like it hit an invisible wall and exploded mid-air.


    "It hit something!"


    Using the remnants of the flames as a guide, I immediately gather my magic and fire it like a flick. The magic projectile, packed with power, obliterates the ground of Hachioji Dungeon and reaches the edge of the floor in the blink of an eye.


    "...What?"


    : Huh?


    : I didn''t see a thing.


    : What just happened?


    : Did you just flick the air?


    : Was that a condensed magic blast?


    : It looked like an energy ball, similar to what EX Salaryman used but way more powerful.


    : The damage is a bit ridiculous, though.


    : Well, he is an EX.


    "So, how was that?"


    "I-It''s gone..."


    "So I guess we defeated it? No problems, then."


    "Only problems! That''s a big problem!"


    If the attack landed, then there''s no issue, right?


    It seems like the fireball hit something, leaving some sparks clinging to it. So, even if it''s a creature made of magic, physical interference is possible. That means it can be attacked¡ªand defeated.


    End of story.


    "This is why people call you an EX, you know?!"


    "Ehh..."


    Sure, an invisible enemy can be a threat, but is it really something to get worked up over?


    Or maybe Asakawa''s freaking out about how casually I fired off that magic blast. It''s just another form of magic manipulation¡ªconcentrating internal magic and launching it. It''s a pretty simple attack, even for people who aren''t great at magic... though it does require decent control of magic flow.


    : Asagao-chan is clearly one of us now. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Thank goodness for Asagao-chan''s common sense.


    : She''s our safety net.


    : Kisaragi, could you show some more concern?


    : An invisible enemy is a big deal!


    "I suppose so. But you wouldn''t die just from having your heart ripped out."


    "You''d die, right?"


    "No, you wouldn''t. You just have to put it back."


    "You... you can''t just put it back."


    "You can, though."


    If you don''t, you''ll die, so you just have to focus and put it back. Once it''s back, heal the wound, and you''ll be fine. I haven''t done it on myself, but I''ve done it for someone else, so it''s no big deal.


    : ???


    : What?


    : Magic really can do anything, huh? (brain shuts down)


    : That''s not human behavior.


    "...Is that what the deep floors are like?"


    "That''s pretty much it. Didn''t it seem like that in my stream?"


    "Well... It just looked like you and Kamishiro-san were steamrolling through everything."


    "Really? Both of us were being extra careful during that stream."


    : That was careful?


    : Wasn''t that basically a casual chat stream?


    : It felt more like a walk in the park.


    : I don''t get it.


    : My brain refuses to comprehend this.


    : Don''t even try to understand... or your brain will go EX on you.


    : Lol.


    : Is EX some kind of virus?


    We were being careful. Usually, Kamishiro doesn''t hold back and tears through dungeons, collapsing them as she goes. The nickname "Dungeon Disaster" wasn''t for nothing.


    "...Anyway, this is the first time you''ve encountered this type of monster, right?"


    "Well, I didn''t see it, but yeah."


    "Don''t give me that."


    "Yeah, yeah... but it''s the first I''ve heard of such a monster."


    : First time hearing about this for me too.


    : How do you even fight something you can''t see?


    : Why could Asagao-chan see it?


    : Weird monster.


    : What did it look like?


    "It looked humanoid... About the size of a child, I guess."


    "Asagao-san can see magic itself, which is a rare trait... So, she can see things that you and I can''t. I''m not sure if it showed up on screen for the viewers, though."


    If a magic blast is enough to obliterate it, it''s not too dangerous, but an invisible enemy is still a pain to deal with. I guess I''ll report this to the association... Aizawa just lectured me the other day, after all.

 Chapter 65: Hachioji’s Last Stand

    "¡­Looks like we''re getting close to the 60th floor."


    "¡­Yeah."


    "¡­There''s really nothing here, huh?"


    "Knew it."


    : Hmm.


    : Not the best dungeon for a stream, huh?


    : Seriously, this dungeon is so boring.


    : No wonder it''s not popular.


    Both the viewers, Asakawa, and I are getting pretty tired of this dungeon. It was her curiosity that got us here in the first place, but we''ve made it close to the 60th floor with no problems. This dungeon is as barren as they say¡ªfew monsters, boring scenery, and little excitement. Even the viewer count is lower than usual. Yeah, maybe streaming in the Hachioji Dungeon wasn''t the best idea.


    "I was hoping for something more exciting, like a dragon... or some huge monster."


    "If you want that, you''ll need to dive into the deeper levels."


    "I don''t have the rank to go that deep!"


    "¡­Have you even applied?"


    "Not yet."


    : Sigh... of course.


    : She''s stalling.


    : Submitting those rank-up forms is such a pain.


    : I get her point, though.


    Sheesh. Exploration ranks don''t increase unless you submit the paperwork to the Association. It''s not automatic. Asakawa is stuck at C-rank because she hasn''t bothered to submit anything. For explorers, ranks don''t just go up without effort, unless you''re someone like me who was bumped straight to EX. But for Asakawa, going from C to B requires submitting forms to document her achievements.


    "But doing paperwork is such a hassle¡­ and then if I rank up to B, they''ll start sending me requests, right?"


    "That''s why many explorers stay at C-rank."


    Like I said before, the Association buys magic stones cheaply and then only starts offering paying requests to explorers once they reach B-rank. As a result, a lot of explorers avoid the hassle of ranking up. They don''t want the pressure or the calls for dangerous deeper-level exploration. If the government doesn''t do something about this issue, it''s not going to change anytime soon.


    "If there were more perks or something, it might be worth it."


    "There aren''t any. And they won''t lower your rank if you turn down government requests."


    A lot of explorers turn down the requests. But even if you repeatedly say no, the Association won''t lower your rank. They can''t afford to lose explorers when the numbers are already tight.


    Explorers think: "We''re risking our lives, pay us more."


    The government thinks: "We need more people, we''ll pay you, just help."


    Looking at the current state of things, it''s easy to tell who''s winning this argument.


    : How does the U.S. handle things?


    : I''ve heard Australia has more strict regulations.


    : Isn''t there international collaboration on this?


    : Seems like a mess between the government and explorers.


    : Being an explorer sounds tough.


    "The U.S.? It depends on the state. Australia, though, pays more for magic stones and has better benefits for explorers. So there''s not as much discontent over there."


    Australia is trying to keep its newfound status as a world power thanks to dungeons, so they''re handling things well. Since the appearance of dungeons, their economy has boomed, and their population has skyrocketed. Meanwhile, China struggled early on when their explorers weren''t strong enough. They pushed too hard, leading to many deaths and mass emigration.


    They''ve stabilized now, though, and are focusing on their economy outside of dungeons.


    "Oh, there''s the stairs. What do you think, Kisaragi? Should we head down to the 60th floor?"


    "¡­Honestly, I doubt there''s anything down there."


    "Yeah."


    : That quick answer tho.


    : Knew it. Find adventures at m v lem|p-yr


    : We could end the stream here, honestly.


    : Or have Asagao fight some deep-level monsters.


    : Isn''t she C-rank? She''s not supposed to go that deep, right? S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Technically, she''s allowed. They just can''t guarantee her survival.


    "Let''s head back!"


    Knew it.


    : Knew it.


    : Called it.


    : No results, lol.


    : Well, it was an experience.


    : Looks like we won''t be seeing the Hachioji Dungeon again in a stream.


    : This stream probably made it even less popular.


    There''s no fixing a boring dungeon. If it''s dull, it''s dull. Even if we made it to the deepest levels, all we''d get is more pointless wandering and uninteresting chit-chat. At this point, I''d rather just end the stream and do a regular Q&A back on the surface.


    "Alright, we''ll ride the kirin back!"


    "¡­Yeah, fine."


    : Thanks for the stream!


    : Good job today!


    : Stream''s over, huh?


    : Can we have a Q&A session before it ends?


    : Question time, please!


    : Thanks for the stream~


    Q&A session? In the Hachioji Dungeon? Is there even anything worth asking about?


    "You can ask anything¡­ but any inappropriate questions and you''re getting blocked."


    Why is Asakawa answering like she''s the channel host? Whatever, I guess.


    : How did Asagao do on her school tests?


    : Did you really make it to the 34th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon?


    : Do you watch anime, Asagao?


    : What''s your favorite game, Asagao?


    : Kisaragi, do you like baseball?


    : What do you think of Kamishiro?


    "My test scores?"


    "She ranked first in the whole grade for the end-of-term exams before summer."


    "How do you even know that?!"


    "You were talking about it loudly in class."


    : First in her grade? Wow.


    : Turns out she''s the smart kind of popular.


    : Popular kids are usually good at everything, huh?


    : I can relate.


    : I think we''ve debunked the idea that quiet kids are smarter, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Did you score 500?


    "489."


    : Excuse me?


    : What''s your brain made of?


    : I''m officially jealous.


    I feel that. I barely cracked the top 100 in my grade¡­ Asagao''s not just smart, she''s top-tier smart.


    "Next question!"


    ": Did you really get to the 34th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon?"


    "Yeah, that''s true."


    That dungeon is such a pain. I bailed at 34.


    : Wait, for real?


    : But the floors are flooded?!


    : Lol.


    : The mystery of the highest Nagoya Dungeon floor is solved.


    "How? I just used my shikigami to handle it, you know?"


    "Okay, next question."


    Uh, sure. I guess my handling of that dungeon isn''t exactly normal, so I''ll keep quiet.


    ": Do you watch anime? What''s your favorite game?"


    "I don''t watch much anime¡­ but I like action games."


    "Huh."


    She plays games? I always thought she''d be one of those high school girls who just hangs out on social media. Guess I''m out of touch with what teens are into these days. Me? I just dive into dungeons and play games. Don''t count me as one of the younger generation, please.


    "Next question."


    ": Kisaragi, do you like baseball?"


    "I do. Personally, I root for the team based in Kanagawa."


    : Ah, that team.


    : Didn''t expect that.


    : I thought you were just into dungeons and games.


    : Isn''t that enough? Lol.


    : Do you talk baseball with Kamishiro?


    "Yeah, we talk about it. She''s pretty into it too."


    "Alright, last one."


    ": What do you think of Kamishiro?"


    "This one''s for me?"


    Why ask me? I''ve already said enough about her on stream.


    "I''d say¡­ she''s my rival? I definitely don''t want to lose to her."


    "Oh? Because you''re close in age?"


    "Yeah. And we seem to like similar things."


    Do they, though? Kamishiro and Asagao seem like total opposites to me.


    : Uh-oh.


    : Territorial showdown incoming.


    : Careful, Kisaragi. Don''t get involved.


    : Let them handle it. You''re not known for your tact, lol.


    : The anti-threads are going to blow up after this.


    Wait, what?

 Chapter 66: Thread 8: Speculations and Streamer Showdowns!

    329: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job.


    330: Anonymous Explorer


    Today''s stream felt pretty empty, didn''t it?


    331: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s all because of that Hachioji Dungeon.


    332: Anonymous Explorer


    True that.


    333: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, it''s a fact, so what can you say?


    334: Anonymous Explorer


    Thanks for the stream. I bailed halfway through.


    335: Anonymous Explorer


    Can''t blame you.


    336: Anonymous Explorer


    The territory fight at the end was the only interesting part.


    337: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾336


    That part made the anti-thread explode. You really shouldn''t bring it up.


    338: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    339: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾336


    I love how all the unicorns collectively lose their minds.


    340: Anonymous Explorer


    That was some blatant teasing.


    341: Anonymous Explorer


    Teasing (and the streamer ended the broadcast still clueless).


    342: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s even funnier because the streamer didn''t even realize it.


    343: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, I''m more surprised that Kisaragi actually made it to the 34th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon.


    344: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, he''s not trying to sell himself as an idol, plus he''s still in high school. Let him do what he wants.


    345: Anonymous Explorer


    Do people actually have a serious crush on Asagao? She''s a high schooler, you know?


    346: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh, you''d be surprised... there are always weirdos like that.


    347: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t underestimate otakus. There are guys out there who seriously think they have a chance with Asagao. Those are the ones sending long creepy super chats.


    She''s not a virtual streamer though, so she doesn''t bother reacting to every super chat.


    348: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾347


    LOL, it''s like she''s rejecting them without saying anything.


    349: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾343


    I seriously don''t get it. How did he even get down there?


    350: Anonymous Explorer


    He just used his shikigami or something (according to him).


    351: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾345


    There are a ton of people with a serious crush on her.


    [Image]


    [Image]


    [Image]


    352: Anonymous Explorer


    Ugh, gross.


    353: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾351


    Put a warning on that. Don''t dump creepy letters from the anti-thread here.


    354: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s disgusting. I can''t even laugh.


    355: Anonymous Explorer


    No joke, that''s just nasty.


    356: Anonymous Explorer


    This is the tragic end of the "weak man."


    357: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾343


    He''s an EX, so he can probably breathe underwater or something (random guess).


    358: Anonymous Explorer


    Does he have gills or something?


    359: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi is secretly an amphibian?


    360: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s send him a reply and tell him to stream from the Nagoya Dungeon.


    361: Anonymous Explorer


    Can he even take a camera down there?


    362: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t seem like it.


    363: Anonymous Explorer


    Do magic stone cameras even have waterproofing?


    364: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾361


    £¾£¾362


    £¾£¾363


    A high-end camera should be fine even if it''s hit with water magic. I''m not sure about taking it underwater, though.


    365: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t sound possible, LOL.


    366: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it impossible to explore down there in the first place?


    367: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone did make it to the 34th floor, though.


    368: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾367


    I checked the official record of deepest floors, and yeah, it says 34th floor. I laughed.


    369: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾368


    So we found the culprit.


    370: Anonymous Explorer


    How the heck did he manage that¡­?


    371: Anonymous Explorer


    This is beyond something you can even understand.


    372: Anonymous Explorer


    Unrelated stuff kept getting hyped up during today''s stream.


    373: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, Hachioji Dungeon was so boring that it basically became a casual chat stream.


    374: Anonymous Explorer


    But come to think of it, Kisaragi has only streamed from Shibuya Dungeon and Hachioji Dungeon, right? Kind of surprising.


    375: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾374


    Our sense of normal is warped from all the crazy deep floors we''ve seen. But yeah, most of the streams have just been from Shibuya Dungeon.


    376: Anonymous Explorer


    Is that so?


    377: Anonymous Explorer


    The lakes, deserts, volcanoes, and seas were all part of Shibuya Dungeon''s deep floors.


    378: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾377


    When you put it like that, Shibuya Dungeon sounds absolutely insane.


    379: Anonymous Explorer


    No wonder it''s still not fully cleared, even with all the people there.


    380: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, but most of those people are just streaming from the upper to middle floors.


    381: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi has really made dungeon streams popular, hasn''t he?


    382: Anonymous Explorer


    More and more high-ranked streamers have started popping up.


    383: Anonymous Explorer


    High-ranked (C-rank).


    384: Anonymous Explorer


    C is already considered pretty high-ranking, you know.


    385: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s an improvement now that there are more streams from the middle floors.


    386: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve noticed more lower floor streams lately too.


    387: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾386


    I think that''s thanks to Asagao.


    388: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion said she might start streaming soon, too.


    389: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾388


    Her streams would probably just be silent as she bulldozes through everything.


    390: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait¡­ I kind of want to see that.


    391: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really okay to let that woman stream without any filters?


    392: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi, when are you going to collab stream with Kaede Jinguji?


    393: Anonymous Explorer


    Collab¡­?


    394: Anonymous Explorer


    That''d be less of a collab and more of just having a guest.


    395: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾392


    Don''t sneak in trying to complete the EX collection!


    396: Anonymous Explorer


    EX collection, LOL. Only Kisaragi could pull that off, so do it.


    397: Anonymous Explorer


    Now I''m genuinely curious.


    398: Anonymous Explorer


    Me too.


    399: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s called the fastest explorer, but we don''t really know what her fighting style is like, do we?


    400: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s fast, right?


    401: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s a pretty vague answer. And we don''t really know about the salaryman''s (Ryou''s) style either. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    402: Anonymous Explorer


    He was pretty solid though, right?


    403: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾402


    There''s no way someone fights like that and goes into the deep floors.


    404: Anonymous Explorer


    He must use a different style when he heads into the deep floors.


    405: Anonymous Explorer


    EX streams are just the best.


    406: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s either a chill stream or a grind-fest.


    407: Anonymous Explorer


    And don''t forget the salaryman and the old guy who doesn''t even use social media.


    408: Anonymous Explorer


    "Salaryman," LOL.


    409: Anonymous Explorer


    I like how Kisaragi quickly announces his next streams.


    [Image]


    410: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾409


    "Next dungeon stream will be a collab with one of the people who sent a lot of collaboration requests."


    Who''s it gonna be?


    411: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s a collab request, it''s gotta be a famous streamer, right?


    412: Anonymous Explorer


    Didn''t he say he rejects carry-type collabs?


    413: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾409


    What if the collab partner is a girl? How will that go?


    414: Anonymous Explorer


    Depends on how famous they are.


    415: Anonymous Explorer


    Either way, the anti-thread''s gonna blow up.


    416: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread always blows up.


    417: Anonymous Explorer


    Even when he''s not streaming, the anti-thread is going wild.


    418: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s make bets on who the next collab partner will be.


    419: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao-chan.


    420: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾419


    She just sent him a direct reply on Twitter instead of a message, though.


    421: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾418


    If it''s a dungeon streamer, could it be Panda?


    422: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾420


    Seriously? No wonder the anti-thread is always on fire.


    423: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾418


    My bet''s on Aikas.


    424: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾423


    No way. Annoying streamer Aikas is a no-go.


    425: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, no chance.


    426: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi''s more of a government-affiliated EX anyway, so there''s no way he''d collab with a troublemaker.


    427: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾418


    Here''s a wild guess: Torimo Sasanami.


    428: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾427


    That''s not even a dungeon streamer! LOL.


    429: Anonymous Explorer


    Please stop bringing up more controversy fodder.


    430: Anonymous Explorer


    Controversy (the anti-thread''s favorite pastime).


    431: Anonymous Explorer


    If the VTuber community joins the anti-thread, it''s going to be a mess.


    432: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾431


    Isn''t it already? Whether more unicorns show up or not, it won''t make a difference.


    433: Anonymous Explorer


    It won''t be a virtual streamer.


    434: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably someone who''s struggling to gain traction, right?


    How about Muscle Glasses?


    435: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾434


    Who the heck is Muscle Glasses? LOL.


    436: Anonymous Explorer


    Who even is Muscle Glasses?


    437: Anonymous Explorer


    Muscle Glasses


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    [Video]


    438: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh, interesting.


    439: Anonymous Explorer


    Definitely struggling (judging by the numbers).


    440: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m betting on Kanacon.


    441: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾440


    Who''s that?


    442: Anonymous Explorer


    I have no idea who these streamers are.


    443: Anonymous Explorer


    To be fair, there aren''t that many famous dungeon streamers.


    444: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s a famous collab, maybe it''s that validation-hungry streamer?


    445: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾444


    Nope, didn''t they have a Twitter meltdown over Kisaragi?


    446: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    447: Anonymous Explorer


    "Validation-hungry streamer" is their official title now, huh?


    448: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾440


    [Retired Salaryman]Konkon ch.


    Kanacon


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    449: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾448


    I think I''ve seen that before.


    450: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, I remember seeing that account trending on social media a bit.


    451: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾448


    Big boobs and a big axe, right? (blunt)


    452: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh yeah, now I remember! That''s the laid-back big sister type (who annihilates goblins with a two-handed axe).


    453: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    454: Anonymous Explorer


    So much for goblin rape fantasies in ero doujinshi, huh? (dead inside)


    455: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, this is it, huh?


    [Video]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    456: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾455


    That''s some true annihilation going on there, LOL.


    457: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾455


    First, I was looking at the boobs, then her axe skills, and then... yeah, it made me wince.


    458: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s on you, LOL.


    459: Anonymous Explorer


    No matter who Kisaragi collabs with, it''s bound to be interesting.


    460: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s interesting enough on his own.


    461: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾460


    Wait, is that a compliment?


    462: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably not.


    463: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    464: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, is the next collab going to be at Nagoya Dungeon?


    465: Anonymous Explorer


    No, it''s not, LOL.


    466: Anonymous Explorer


    If it were, I''d be terrified.


    467: Anonymous Explorer


    That collab would get canceled real quick.


    468: Anonymous Explorer


    I personally want Asagao-chan or Kamishiro-chan to collab with him again.


    469: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s what''s "normal" to you?


    470: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve been brainwashed.


    471: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾421


    I like Panda too. It''d be cool to see a collab.


    472: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda?


    473: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda''s skill level is... lacking.


    474: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda''s a D-rank, right? Kanacon is E, so it''s not too far off.


    475: Anonymous Explorer


    Here are the guest rankings for Kisaragi''s streams so far:


    Asagao "C"


    Kamishiro Rion "EX"


    Aizawa Ryosuke "EX"


    Who''s next?


    476: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾475


    At this point, Asagao-chan is the odd one out.


    477: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    478: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾472


    Dou Dou Ling Ling


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    [Video]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    By the way, people call her "Panda" because her name sounds like it.


    479: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾478


    Thanks.


    Her fan nickname is so random, though.


    480: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s fine, she''s a panda, after all.


    481: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s cute, like a panda.


    482: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda''s a dude, though.


    483: Anonymous Explorer


    Dou Dou Ling Ling sounds a lot like a panda, I get that ¡û Makes sense.


    Let''s just call her Panda ¡û Huh?


    484: Anonymous Explorer


    You don''t get it?


    485: Anonymous Explorer


    Recently, Panda''s been using black-and-white designs too, so it''s fine.


    486: Anonymous Explorer


    Everyone''s just going along with it, LOL.


    487: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care who, I just want to see Kisaragi dive into the deep floors again.


    488: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no way he''d do that in a collab stream.


    489: Anonymous Explorer


    If he did, it''d be a total disaster.


    490: Anonymous Explorer


    If he collabs with someone who can handle the deep floors, it''d be hilarious anyway.


    491: Anonymous Explorer


    What, is this guy invincible?


    492: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s what you call a Kisaragi fanboy.


    493: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it okay to have a fanboy who laughs at everything? Dive into more chapters on m-vlem|p-yr


    494: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course! Kisaragi''s streams are always super chill!

 Chapter 67: A Streamers Dilemma: More Than Just Dungeons

    "Guess it''s about time I start doing things that feel more like a streamer than just an explorer."


    : I don''t care?


    : What''s this guy talking about all of a sudden?


    : Starting a stream out of nowhere and now he''s saying weird stuff.


    I decided to start a casual chat stream from home for the first time in a while. While I am technically a dungeon streamer, I figured constantly streaming dungeon runs might get a little old. So, on a whim, I decided to set up a chill chat stream. There weren''t many viewers, considering it was an unannounced stream with no dungeon action, but a decent number of people still dropped by.


    It felt different from my usual streams; this time, it was just me, the screen, and the chat.


    Honestly, sometimes it feels like I''m not really connecting with the viewers. Sure, we dive into dungeons, and that''s exciting for them, but I never really get the chance to just... talk. It''s almost like people only want to see me fight or explore and not actually engage with me outside of that. But there''s more to streaming, right? Or at least, there should be.


    "I mean, I could do a game stream or something, or maybe even meet up with viewers?"


    : Where would that be?


    : Probably the Shibuya Dungeon.


    : Dungeon meetup LOL.


    : Isn''t that just a dungeon stream?


    : Alright, let''s have a meetup on the 70th floor of Shibuya Dungeon!


    : That''s in the middle of the desert though.


    "No, not in a place like that¡­ I mean just hanging out, you know?"


    : He wants to try new things at his age?


    : He''s a high schooler after all.


    : You could do a study stream, ya know? S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Especially since it sounds like he''s not getting much studying done.


    That''s not it.


    I''m sure the viewers are probably just thinking, "as long as he keeps diving into the deep floors, that''s all we need," but I want to do more... y''know, high school youth stuff! It feels like every day I''m either in a dungeon or prepping to go into one. Is that all there is for me?


    Don''t get me wrong, dungeons are great, and the adrenaline from battling monsters is awesome, but sometimes, I just want to... do something normal.


    : If you want to have a youthful experience, don''t rely on your viewers.


    : Go to school.


    : Join a club or something.


    : Make some friends.


    : Can we even make friends?


    : Nope.


    : Just give up on the whole youth thing.


    : Dungeons are part of youth too, man.


    : They''ve already given up on you LOL.


    : You''re one of us.


    "...I''ll just play some mobile games then."


    : He''s pouting.


    : LOL.


    : Haha, this is hilarious.


    : I''ll play too.


    : Props for logging in every day, at least.


    : As a corporate drone, I''m also just here for my daily login.


    : Use your vacation days to game properly.


    "Feeling annoyed, so I''m going to drop 100k yen on gacha and pull some characters."


    : Whoa.


    : Showing off that wallet power.


    : Don''t go smacking people with your cash.


    : Man, I''m jealous.


    : Must be nice.


    : So, if I dive into a dungeon, I can pull gacha whenever I want?


    : Don''t even think about it, seriously.


    It''s my money, so I can spend it however I want. Besides, I''ve got more than enough, so if I blow it on gacha, I''m just helping stimulate the economy, right? I say that to justify it as I pull until I get full character unlocks. That''s how it is these days ¨C I have more money than I know what to do with, and gacha games are my guilty pleasure. I mean, what else am I supposed to do with it?


    Dungeons have made me pretty well-off.


    "So, what exactly do streamers do?"


    : I dunno.


    : Momo-niku does game streams, mostly.


    : Kisaragi only introduced me to Momo-niku, so I wouldn''t know.


    : What do streamers even do, though?


    : There''s not much besides chatting or playing games, right?


    : Not really.


    "Would game streaming be fine? I''ve got all the latest consoles."


    I do post those achievement badges you get for completing games on social media sometimes, and each time I get a decent amount of reactions. It''s proof I''m becoming more well-known, I guess. Even my random daily tweets get a lot of responses. I guess that''s the upside of having a following.


    But sometimes I wonder, do people follow me for the dungeons, or is it just because they''re hoping I''ll reveal something more personal? It''s a bit unsettling, honestly.


    "People have been telling me to set up a Q&A box for viewer questions, but won''t that just get spammed?"


    : Yeah, it usually gets spammed.


    : Either way works, I think.


    : Just open up donations.


    : Let people donate to get their questions answered.


    : Having a question box is convenient, but it has its downsides.


    "Huh... well, I don''t need donations. I''ve got enough money."


    : LOL.


    : That reason is hilarious.


    : Just streaming for fun, huh?


    : I guess that''s how it is.


    : Makes sense since diving into deep floors is way more profitable.


    : Stop, this is killing me from laughter.


    I mean, at this point, would it even matter if I started taking donations or ad revenue from streams? I''d much rather just take on some quests from the association and dive into dungeons. Getting money from viewers feels a bit... you know? It''s weird to think about people paying me just to talk or answer questions.


    I''m already making more than enough from dungeon quests, and there''s something about accepting money from viewers that just feels... off.


    "Alright, let''s roll some gacha and answer some questions while we''re at it."


    : Been waiting for this.


    : I''ve got a ton of questions ready.


    : Mainly about Nagoya Dungeon.


    : That''s a forbidden topic, dude.


    : LOL.


    : What the heck is going on there?


    "Ah, I knew it. You guys were discussing Nagoya Dungeon on some forum or something, right? I suddenly got flooded with replies about it."


    : We were shocked too!


    : This gave me a headache.


    : I couldn''t sleep because I was thinking about it!


    : Dude, you caused an entire thread dedicated to Nagoya Dungeon to pop up!


    : Surprised it didn''t exist already LOL.


    : There were a few scattered threads, but now it''s official.


    Ugh¡­ I don''t know how to respond to that.


    "Alright, shoot your questions. Ask anything, I''ll just pick out the ones I feel like answering."


    : How did you get to the 34th floor of Nagoya Dungeon?


    : Why did you stop at the 34th floor?


    : What''s Nagoya Dungeon like inside?


    : Are you ever going to reach the bottom of Hachioji Dungeon?


    : What''s your favorite game genre?


    : Kisaragi, do you like girls with big boobs?


    : Do EX explorers gather regularly?


    : Any tips on controlling magic?


    : Recommend any good blacksmiths?


    : Tell us about foreign dungeons.


    : Why don''t you have any friends?


    "That''s a lot."


    : You said anything goes!


    : Now answer!


    "Alright, I''ll try¡­ I got to the 34th floor of Nagoya Dungeon using my shikigami. There''s no way to breathe underwater, and there''s proper water pressure too, so it''s a total nightmare of a dungeon. As for why I turned back at the 34th floor, it just took too long. I do want to challenge deeper floors someday, though."


    : There''s water pressure too?


    : I didn''t even think about going there, so I had no idea LOL.


    : So, it''s just time-consuming?


    : Makes sense why the government hasn''t been able to crack it.


    : There''s rare metals down there though...


    : Yeah, even though magic stones made rare metals less in demand, they''re still valuable.


    "As for Hachioji Dungeon''s bottom floors¡­ I''d probably just get bored, so I''ll leave that to others. My favorite game genres are action and RPGs, I guess? I tend to enjoy the more mainstream stuff."


    : Stop slacking on your responsibilities!


    : Action games are awesome.


    : The graphics in action games have gotten so much better lately.


    : Turn-based RPGs are on the decline.


    : Sad but true.


    : They''re only popular in Japan these days.


    "We don''t have EX gatherings, but there are occasional meetups for B-rank and higher. It''s more like strategy meetings with the association. By the way, I''ve never seen Kamishiro show up to one of those."


    : LOL.


    : Figured as much.


    : Makes total sense.


    : Stop dodging the boob question!


    : What about boobs???????


    : He''s evading!


    Shut up.


    Why would I need to talk about my preferences with viewers? I''m a high school boy, you know? Talking about that kind of stuff is embarrassing.


    "I''ll probably set aside a stream for foreign dungeon stories sometime¡­ maybe. As for magic control, it really depends on the person. And for blacksmiths, I''d say stick with the big-name companies. As for why I don''t have friends¡­ I''d like to know that too." Discover tales on m_vl_em_p_yr


    : That''s so sad.


    : Friends? What are those?


    : Never had friends.


    : Why are you making this so depressing?


    : Set that stream up soon.


    : I wanted to hear more about foreign dungeons.


    "Alright, I got the maxed-out character, so I think it''s time to end the stream."


    : LOL, quietly threw a lot of money at that gacha.


    : He''s just casually dumping so much money into this game, it''s hilarious.


    : This is what a whale looks like.


    : It''s not about skill, just money power.


    : Haha, please don''t ever play PvP games.


    : Seems like he likes busty characters.


    : High school boys will always lose to boobs, huh?


    : That''s just how it is.


    PvP games aren''t my thing anyway, so I don''t care. Besides, it''s my money, and I''ll use it however I want. And stop trying to analyze my preferences, geez.


    "¡­Alright, I''m logging off now."


    : Thanks for the stream!


    : Looking forward to the next collab.


    : Good job!


    : Take care.


    : See you next time!


    Chatting with viewers without any real purpose is surprisingly fun. Maybe next time, I''ll just stream while reading random news online and talking about whatever comes to mind.

 Chapter 68: Kanakons Big Leap

    As summer break was heading into its latter half, and my classmates were busy preparing for their upcoming entrance exams, I was casually chopping off monsters'' heads. Recently, I''d been relying too much on my shikigami for fighting, so today I was wielding a sword myself and taking on the monsters. Well... it''s not for fun this time. I''m here for work.


    Fighting as an explorer has pretty much become my job at this point. It doesn''t feel like something I can do purely for fun or out of curiosity anymore. Still, I think I really do enjoy diving into dungeons. Though there are places like Hachioji Dungeon, which are painfully boring.


    "Phew..." S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Today''s task was to take down a powerful monster that appeared in the lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon. But lately, I''ve been feeling a little weird going into dungeons without streaming. It seems like I''ve gotten pretty addicted to dungeon streaming, whether it''s watching or doing it myself.


    [Thank you for accepting my collaboration invitation.]


    [I''ll do my best not to drag you down, even though I''m still inexperienced.]


    [The date can be adjusted to fit your schedule, so please let me know when you''re available.]


    After getting home from work, I noticed a notification on my phone. It was from the person I''d agreed to collaborate with. Honestly, maybe she''s being too formal, or maybe that''s just how I think because I''m still just a clueless high school student.


    But in reality, I''ve been keeping an eye on her as a dungeon streamer for a while now. If we''re talking pure talent, I think she''s on par with Asakawa-san. Of course, I won''t know for sure until I see her live, but I don''t think she''s someone who should be stuck in the upper floors.


    This isn''t like trying to mimic Aizawa-san, but... as an EX-ranked explorer and someone who''s been running beginner lectures on streaming, it feels like helping raise the level of dungeon explorers is part of my job.


    [Thanks for your message.]


    [I think I can clear my schedule for the day after tomorrow. Would that work for you?]


    "Shibuya Dungeon, right?"


    Since she''s been streaming from Shibuya Dungeon most of the time, the collab will probably be there. Honestly, streaming the upper floors on my channel might feel refreshing.


    [That works for me.]


    [Let''s meet at Shibuya Dungeon at 9 AM, the day after tomorrow. Sound good?]


    [That''s perfect. Looking forward to it.]


    Looks like everything''s set... When I collaborated with Asakawa-san, we made the plans in person. And Kamishiro-san just sort of followed me around. With Aizawa-san, I casually invited him. So this kind of formal scheduling feels a bit tense. It''s not that I dislike it, but...


    I hope it goes well.


    With a bit of nervousness, I went about my day until the agreed-upon date arrived, and I headed over to Shibuya Dungeon.


    "Um... Kisaragi-san?"


    "Oh, good morning, Kanakon-san."


    "Y-Yes!"


    This is my collab partner for today... an E-ranked explorer, Kanakon-san.


    Apparently, much like Aizawa-san, she left her salary job to pursue a full-time career as an explorer, but things didn''t work out. Now, she''s turned to streaming, hoping to boost her income from ads. But it seems like she''s struggling with that as well.


    "My name''s Kanako Miyamoto."


    "I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa... though, I guess you already know that."


    "Y-Yes... I wasn''t sure if you used your real name."


    Kanakon-san¡ªMiyamoto-san¡ªinitially had a solid start as a streamer. And, well, let''s just say her... "generous assets" paired with a soft-spoken, gentle voice and an easygoing personality really helped her stand out. As a dungeon streamer, her image of swinging around a massive two-handed axe made a big impact, and for a while, she was trending on social media. She managed to gain a decent following.


    But it seems like she reached out to me for this collab because, just like with Asakawa-san, she hopes to get stronger rather than just boosting her numbers. In other words, she''s more interested in improving her skills than in a mere collab.


    That''s fine by me. The latter''s more important than the collab anyway.


    "Is it alright if I teach you everything on-stream?"


    "Y-Yes, that''s fine!"


    She''s a bit nervous... but she should be okay. She''s been streaming regularly, after all.


    By the way, she streams under the name "Konkon Channel" because she wears a fox mask to hide her face. The name "Konkon" comes from the fox mask, and her real name Kanako Miyamoto, hence "Kanakon." It''s kinda cute, considering she''s a former salarywoman.


    "Good morning... Quite a crowd today."


    : Well, of course.


    Experience more on m|vl-em,py-r


    : You gave a heads-up this time.


    : This time.


    : Still bitter about how you usually stream out of nowhere LOL.


    : Can''t blame ''em.


    : Only jobless people can keep up with your usual stream times.


    "It''s summer vacation, after all."


    "Whoa... that''s a lot of viewers..."


    : Huh?


    : Is the collab partner already here?


    : I heard a girl''s voice!


    : UNFORGIVABLE...


    : You''ve betrayed us!


    : EX-''us'' has been disgraced!


    "Wait, since when have I been called ''EX-us''?"


    Apparently, my nickname has evolved without me knowing?


    Am I getting trashed on message boards behind my back?


    "Well, anyway, today''s collab is with Kanakon-san."


    "Y-Yes! Pleased to meet you!"


    : Cute.


    : Is this the first legit beauty on Kisaragi''s channel?


    : Finally, a normal person.


    : Good choice.


    : I don''t know her, but I bet she''s adorable.


    : Kanakon-chan, do your best!!


    "Wow, I see some of my viewers here too. Thank you for watching."


    "So... as I said, today''s a collab with Kanakon-san. Just like I did with Asakawa-san, I''ll be teaching her some combat techniques."


    "Y-Yes! I''ll do my best, Sensei!"


    : Ohhh.


    : So you''re in ''mentor mode.''


    : Yeah, teaching suits you better.


    : Not really a regular collab guy.


    : Dungeon streaming is your calling.


    : You were born for this, man.


    : Kanakon-chan''s about to get a serious power boost.


    : I''ve seen her name on social media before.


    With her fox mask and large two-handed axe, "Kanakon" has made quite a name for herself. Some of the viewers seem familiar with her, and I noticed a few comments about spotting her on social media. That''s how I first saw her too¡ªher talent caught my eye immediately.


    "Alright... let''s aim to get you into the middle floors by the end of today."


    "Wait, wh-what?! Really?!"


    : Huh?


    : LOL.


    : Wait, is he planning to take her from E-rank to D-rank in one day?


    : Is that even possible?


    : LOL.


    : This is basically Dungeon Basics 2.0.


    : Hilarious.


    By the way, I''m dead serious.


    I don''t see why someone with her talent is stuck in the upper floors, which is why I accepted her collab request in the first place.

 Chapter 69: Kanakon’s Awakening

    "As a starting point, Kanakon-san, is it safe to say that you''re not good with handling magic?"


    "Y-Yes¡­ I don''t really understand the concept of ''building up magical energy.''"


    : I can relate.


    : That''s why I gave up being an explorer.


    : It''s tough since you can''t physically see magic.


    : It''s like being told to ''build up your blood flow''¡ªmakes no sense.


    : If only there were a simple manual for that.


    : Can''t someone figure that out?


    This is actually a pretty common issue. In the modern era, it''s normal for humans to be born with magical energy circulating within their bodies. Whether consciously or unconsciously, everyone circulates magic in their daily lives. To wield magic, explorers must control this circulating energy at will.


    For dungeon explorers, magic is the only means of fighting monsters without any weapons at hand.


    "It seems like you''re not good at building up magical energy, but you''re quite good at circulating it inside your body, right?"


    "Huh¡­ you can tell just by looking at me?"


    "No, I know that your physical abilities aren''t something that can be explained by just athletic skills."


    To put it bluntly, Miyamoto-san has no talent for using magic. She might be able to solidify some basic magic and fire it off in a straight line, but she won''t be able to transform magic into another element like Asakawa-san or Kamishiro-san. However, that doesn''t mean she can''t handle magic at all.


    While she may not be able to "build" magical energy, she is adept at circulating it within her body. This skill, though not magic in the strict sense, can explosively enhance physical abilities by circulating the magical energy inside her.


    : Wait, is there a difference between magic control and circulation?


    : Aren''t they the same thing?


    "What I taught during the basic course was magical control. That''s about covering your body with magical energy to increase your hardness, but circulating magic inside your body is what enhances your physical abilities." S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Why didn''t you teach both in the basic course?


    : Shouldn''t you include that as well?


    : So, there''s a difference between just getting harder and getting stronger.


    : It''s all about intentionally making yourself stronger, huh?


    : What about the basics?


    "I didn''t teach it because it''s actually a pretty advanced technique."


    : ?? Huh??


    : Wait, they''re different?


    "Controlling magic is like me telling you to ''make yourself sweat intentionally.'' Most people would understand that they need to warm up their bodies through physical activity."


    : Yeah, makes sense.


    : So?


    "Circulating magic is like telling someone to ''increase their blood flow on the spot without moving or using any tools.''"


    : That''s impossible!


    : Yeah, no way.


    : LOL


    "Exactly. This is something you can only manage through innate ability... Although I do know a few people who''ve learned it through sheer effort."


    It''s a bit complicated, but that''s the gist of it. Technically speaking, they''re entirely different, but as long as it''s understood, that''s fine. The focus today is on how to help Miyamoto-san get stronger.


    "Since you seem to have a knack for circulating magic, Kanakon-san, you should be able to handle the lower floors with ease once you''re used to it."


    "I- I can do that?"


    "You totally can."


    Dungeon explorer ranks don''t have strict criteria like "achieve this and you''ll reach C-rank." However, as a general guideline, an explorer ranked E should be able to take on multiple goblins at once without getting hurt. Meanwhile, someone ranked C, like Asakawa-san, should be able to take down a wyvern solo.


    Currently, Kanakon-san is ranked E, so she''s at the level where she can easily wipe out groups of goblins. To move up to D-rank, she''d need to be able to hold her own against the strongest monsters of the middle floors, like wyverns, and have the association acknowledge her abilities.


    With that in mind, we''ve made our way to the 20th floor, right on the boundary between the upper and middle floors of the Shibuya Dungeon.


    Even though this is technically still the upper floors, the monsters here are about as strong as those in the middle floors. Not many people are around... but it''s also a weekday morning.


    "Alright, let''s start by taking down some monsters, just as usual."


    "Y-Yes!"


    : Don''t be too nervous.


    : It''s still the upper floors, so you''ll be fine.


    : Yeah, but having way more viewers than usual is probably nerve-wracking.


    : True, I''d be nervous too with that many people watching. Discover the unknown at m_vl_em_p_yr


    : Same here.


    : How does Kisaragi even stay so calm?


    : He''s pretty laid-back, for better or worse.


    : That''s just who he is.


    Honestly, I don''t even pay attention to how many people are watching. I started streaming just to record my dungeon dives and interact with normal people. These days, I do try to be more mindful of my audience, but at the core, that hasn''t changed.


    As we wander around the 20th floor, two steel ants crawl out from the corridor ahead. Steel ants are large but still exhibit the usual ant-like behavior¡ªwhen threatened, they call for reinforcements. The key strategy is to take them down before they can summon help.


    "Let''s start with the usual approach."


    "Okay¡­ Here I go!"


    With a shout of determination, Miyamoto-san hefts the dark, gleaming two-handed axe she carries and takes a powerful step forward. By circulating her magical energy and enhancing her physical abilities, her footsteps leave visible imprints on the dungeon floor.


    : Fast!


    : Wait, what?


    In no time, she closes the distance, landing a brutal strike before the steel ants even register her as a threat. Her aim is precise, cleaving through the joint between the ant''s head and body, rendering one of the ants immediately incapacitated.


    "Haah!"


    Without missing a beat, she swings her axe again, this time slicing through the hard exoskeleton of the second ant, dismembering it.


    : Terrifying.


    : Yikes.


    : I thought she was just "big in the chest."


    : I''m sorry for underestimating her.


    : She''s way stronger than expected.


    : Yeah, now it really doesn''t make sense why she''s still in the upper floors.


    : This time, I think Kisaragi''s right.


    See?


    When you take a closer look, you can''t help but wonder why someone with her strength is still stuck in the E-rank. She has the power to easily tear through the steel ant''s armor, so why is she still in the upper floors?


    However, it seems like her knowledge about monsters is a bit lacking. She lets out a sigh of relief without realizing that the first ant, whose head she severed, is still moving.


    "That''s dangerous, you know."


    "Huh?"


    Steel ants are, after all, ants. Insects can keep moving even when decapitated, and the steel ant is no exception. Just because its head is severed doesn''t mean it''s dead. As the ant tries to emit a danger signal, I release a burst of magic to blow its head to pieces.


    "It''s standard practice to make sure you crush a steel ant''s head. If you don''t, they''ll keep summoning more indefinitely."


    : Yup, learned that the hard way.


    : Got close to dying because of it.


    : Seriously, those things are a nightmare.


    : Steel ants¡­ yeah, I''ve got trauma from them.


    : Didn''t someone say getting bitten by them only causes redness?


    : Yeah, that someone was the host of this channel.


    That was a long time ago¡ªdon''t remind me.


    For beginner explorers, steel ants are tough opponents. I learned that lesson the hard way too.

 Chapter 70: A-Rank Party with an E-Rank Heart

    "Honestly, I think you''re more than ready for D-rank as you are now."


    "R-Really?"


    : I agree.


    : Hmm.


    : If she can wipe out Steel Ants like that, isn''t that enough?


    : Yeah, seems like it.


    : But you have to file for it, right?


    : You have to write the paperwork and submit it to the association.


    "Of course, you''ll still need to build up your track record. Like, how many magic stones you''ve collected and things like that."


    Well, if she collects about 20 Steel Ant magic stones in a day, I think that would be more than enough to prove her worth. I mean, I went from E-rank straight to EX, so I''m not too familiar with the process of ranking up to D.


    From what I understand, the association''s benchmark for D-rank is being able to take on a wyvern, the strongest monster in the middle floors, and hold your ground. If that''s the case, I think Miyamoto-san already has the skill. It might just come down to perfecting basic movements and refining the efficiency of her magic circulation.


    "Do you think if I just recommended you, you''d easily get bumped to D-rank?"


    : Can you do that?


    : Does EX come with that privilege?


    : How do you not know this?


    : Isn''t that super easy if you can just recommend her?


    "Maybe¡­ but if I had that power, I''d probably get a lot of people asking for recommendations."


    : Fair point.


    : Hey, can you recommend me for D-rank too?


    : LOL


    : Just throw me a recommendation for EX while you''re at it.


    : Don''t push it, dude.


    : Haha, not even funny as a joke.


    I might try asking the association when I get back... It''s kind of ridiculous that she''s still E-rank with that strength. If that doesn''t work, I could ask for help from the guild.


    Honestly, there''s nothing more I can teach her on the upper floors. She needs to move on to the middle floors if she''s going to progress, and I''ll do what I can to help her get there.


    : Why not just form a party?


    : You can file a party application, right?


    : Have you soloed so much you forgot about party ranks? Find more to read at m_v l|-NovelFire


    : LOL S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : B-B-B-Bachelor!


    : Stop attacking us from all directions!


    : You could easily hit D-party rank if you teamed up with EX.


    "Oh, right..."


    : He seriously forgot about it, huh?


    : Wow¡­


    : LMAO


    : You really should team up more often.


    : You''re always diving solo, that''s why.


    Now that I think about it, there is such a thing as party ranking, huh?


    To enter the upper floors, you need at least F-rank, and for the middle floors, you need D-rank. But it doesn''t have to be your individual rank¡ªit can be a party rank, too.


    Party ranks aren''t an average of the members'' ranks; they''re calculated based on the highest-ranking member''s reliability. If an EX like me teamed up with an E-rank like Miyamoto-san... we''d probably get a B or even A-rank. Just because I''m overpowered.


    "Let''s head back to the entrance and file a party application."


    "Y-Yeah, let''s do that."


    Man, I had totally forgotten about party ranks. To be fair, I''ve hardly ever been in a party. The last time I teamed up with someone was probably when my grandmother dragged me through the lower floors despite my low rank.


    "And so, Kanakon-san and I are now in a party. Our party rank is A."


    : LOL


    : A-rank party with an E-rank member? (Confused)


    : Walking tactical nuke over here.


    : One-man army!


    : This stream is comedy gold.


    : I was only here for Kanakon, but this is too funny¡ªsubscribed!


    : This guy is something else. LOL


    "Now we can head to the middle floors... or even the lower floors."


    "Y-Yeah... I guess so..."


    Technically, you need to be A-rank or higher to enter the lower floors. Since our party rank is A, I could technically take Miyamoto-san all the way down there. But, of course, I''m not going to drag her into a place like that¡ªit''s way too unpredictable.


    Still, I wonder if she chose this path because of the current trend of skipping traditional employment. It''s becoming more common for people to make a living through streaming and other unconventional means. Maybe I should ask her directly.


    "So, Kanakon-san, how old are you? You seem really young."


    "Eh? I-I''m... 24 this year."


    "Wow, that''s young."


    : Don''t say that as a high schooler, dude.


    : You sound like an old man.


    : You''re younger than her, come on.


    : Still, 24 is young.


    "Did you graduate college and go straight into streaming? But I thought you said you left a corporate job."


    "Well... I''m not sure if it qualifies as ''leaving a corporate job,'' but... after I graduated college, I got a job at a company... and it turned out to be a black company."


    "Oh..."


    : Oh no.


    : Yikes.


    : I see where this is going.


    : We all know what that means.


    : For once, Kisaragi and the chat are on the same page.


    : It''s a rare moment of understanding.


    "That''s when I remembered how I used to explore dungeons part-time during college to pay for tuition... I realized it was all I had left, so I quit and became a full-time explorer."


    "Wow... that''s pretty bold."


    Despite being too shy to show her face on stream and wearing a fox mask, Miyamoto-san had the guts to quit her job and decide to make a living as an explorer. It takes real nerve to leave a job without knowing where your next paycheck will come from.


    "But even after all this time, I''m still stuck at E-rank, and I started wondering if I just don''t have any talent."


    "No, you''ve definitely got talent. Way more than most of my viewers, that''s for sure."


    : Ouch.


    : He''s not wrong, though.


    : Wait, really?


    : Hey, I''m a proud lifetime E-rank!


    : To be fair, the only thing wrong here is that Kanakon''s still E-rank.


    : Did he just roast us all?


    : Uh, excuse me, I''m a solid C-rank.


    Honestly, with her potential, Miyamoto-san could easily reach B-rank within a year if things go smoothly. She said she''s been doing this since college, but if this is how she''s been fighting the whole time, then she''s got some natural talent.


    "Though... I have trouble socializing, so I''ve never really been part of a team."


    "..."


    Ah, she''s one of us.


    : You definitely thought, "One of us," didn''t you?


    : Don''t lump her in with us.


    : She''s just a little shy.


    : And definitely gorgeous.


    : We''re not the same, man.


    "Why do you only defend her? This is why none of you have friends."


    : Same goes for you, buddy.


    : LOL


    : Hey, no need to bring friends into this!


    : That''s a low blow, man.


    : Like you''ve got friends yourself.


    "What? I have Asagao-san. We talk at school, you know?"


    : Betrayal!


    : You''re telling me Kisaragi has friends!?


    : This ruins my mental image of him.


    : EX-ore-tachi (EX-us) is officially revoked.


    : He''s no longer one of us.


    : This is heresy.


    "Aha... this is a pretty fun stream."


    "...Sorry, I got a bit carried away. This is just the usual dynamic."


    Maybe I went a little too far. This is a collaboration stream, after all. It''s fine when I''m streaming with Asagao, but I should probably dial it down when I''m with someone like Miyamoto-san, especially since it''s our first time streaming together. Though, I''m not sure if I''ll be able to hold back if the viewers keep egging me on.


    : Sorry, Kanakon-chan!


    : Kanakon is adorable.


    : Walking alongside an EX¡ªso impressive.


    : You''re awesome, Kanakon, hanging out with an EX.


    : Are EXs classified as hazardous materials or something?


    : Pretty much.

 Chapter 71: A Test of Strength

    We''ve arrived at the middle floors of the Shibuya Dungeon again, this time in the forested area. Though it''s Miyamoto-san''s first time in the middle floors, so I''ll need to be somewhat cautious while exploring. The monsters on the higher end of the middle floors aren''t drastically stronger than those in the lowest part of the upper floors, so I''m confident Miyamoto-san can handle herself.


    However, the terrain changes significantly in the middle floors, creating more blind spots, and the number of monsters increases, making it a more challenging environment. Still, if you don''t walk the edge of danger, you won''t sharpen your skills, so it should be fine.


    "Manipulating magic, circulating magic power, and refining magic to cast spells. In a dungeon, it''s essential to control your magic freely."


    "Y-Yes!"


    "That means the more magic you have in your body, the better your odds in battle."


    : True.


    : Magic power is king.


    : The more magic you have, the better explorer you are; with less, you''re just weak.


    : Even monsters get stronger based on how much magic they''ve got.


    : In dungeons, it''s all about magic power.


    That''s why I told Asakawa-san it''s better to increase her magic capacity before worrying about boosting her spell potency. Well, in her case, she can see magic, so she didn''t need much teaching to grasp controlling or circulating it. For most people, handling an invisible and ambiguous force like magic is challenging, but she''s dealing with what she can physically see, like it''s no big deal.


    Honestly, Asakawa-san might be a genius¡ªbeing able to see magic is probably a form of synesthesia.


    "It''s really a forest¡­ I''ve seen it in other people''s streams, but it''s still strange to see something like a bright sun and trees underground."


    "Well¡­ that''s for the scholars to figure out."


    : Translation: "I don''t know."


    : Well, explorers don''t really need to worry about that stuff.


    : True, leave it to the scientists.


    : Kisaragi''s definitely the type who only cares about things he''s interested in.


    : Classic nerd behavior¡ªsuper invested in some things, total indifference to others.


    Even if I ponder the mechanics of this place, it wouldn''t change much. I do keep up with the latest research papers, but I don''t delve into the causes behind dungeon phenomena. For me, it''s enough to accept that "it''s just how it is."


    "Hm?"


    I sense a gaze from the bushes. It doesn''t carry any hostility or intent to kill, though, so it''s probably not a monster¡ªit feels more like a human presence. Who''d be people-watching in the middle floors of a dungeon? Pretty rare.


    That aside, I can feel the vibrations of monsters approaching from the front. Judging by the size of the tremors, they aren''t particularly large, but there are quite a few of them.


    "M-Monsters are coming."


    "...You''re handling them all, Miyamoto-san."


    "W-What?"


    : Oh, here we go.


    : Classic sadism.


    : Saw that coming.


    : Yeah, no surprise.


    : Kisaragi''s training methods are always brutal.


    : He''s just passing down what Jinguji Kaede used to do to him.


    : EXs, man, take it easy.


    "You''ll be fine. It''s the middle floors, so it''s not like you''ll die right away¡­ I''ll help before you lose all your limbs."


    "W-Wait, what!?"


    : Wut.


    : LIMBS!?


    : Does he not help until it''s THAT bad?


    : What a sadist.


    : Let''s spread this on social media¡ªdude gets off on sending women into monster fights.


    : That''s some messed-up fetish, man.


    It''s not a fetish¡ªit''s legitimate training. If she can''t handle this, there''s no way she''ll survive the lower floors. At the very least, to make a living as a professional dungeon explorer, you need to be able to reach the lowest levels of the middle floors.


    Stay updated via m-v l|-NovelFire


    Come to think of it, isn''t the real reason there aren''t many explorers because the pay isn''t enough? With so many explorers stuck in the upper floors, why isn''t the government raising the buying price for magic stones or trying to recruit more middle-floor explorers?


    "Eek!? What is that bizarre plant!?"


    "...Who knows?"


    I know most monsters by their traits and how to deal with them when they show up, but I don''t bother memorizing the names of all the creatures in the middle floors.


    : How do you not know, man? LOL S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : That''s an Eggplant.


    : Wait, it''s actually called an Eggplant?


    : So, it''s a literal eggplant, huh?


    : Yep, that''s right.


    : But where''s the eggplant part?


    : I think it camouflages itself as one, right?


    "Apparently, it camouflages itself as a greenish eggplant."


    : Ah, that''s the reason.


    : Still, no one''s worried about Kanakon?


    : You''d think someone would mention her at least once.


    : Surely, someone has.


    : Nope, nothing.


    : LOL


    : Eggplants aren''t strong, so she''s fine.


    As expected, about ten Eggplant monsters, small plant-based creatures, appeared. For a plant, the fact that they walk around on legs makes no sense to me.


    Their heads hang down, resembling eggplants, which they use for camouflage. They''re about 120 cm tall, but they''re still just plants. If Miyamoto-san swings her axe, she''ll be fine¡ªthese things don''t even use any fancy magic or anything.


    "Waaaahhhh!"


    : That was a straight-up scream, LOL.


    : But she took down two with one swing.


    : Isn''t Kanakon kinda strong?


    : Yeah, she''s stronger than I thought.


    Her magic circulation is better than I expected. If she wasn''t skilled at it, there''s no way she''d be able to close several meters in one step and then slice an Eggplant clean in half with a single swing of her axe. Even if these aren''t the strongest middle-floor monsters, they should still be tougher than the Steel Ants. And judging by her performance, she''s not really struggling.


    Her biggest challenge might be dealing with monsters that use magic.


    At this level of the middle floors, we''re not seeing magic-wielding monsters yet, but further down, things like Wyverns will casually start breathing fire. She''ll definitely need a plan to counter that.


    : She screamed and charged, but wiped them all out.


    : That''s terrifying.


    : This girl''s actually strong.


    : She''s way stronger than me.


    : I take back my earlier comments.


    : Is this where the viewers get humbled?


    : Viewers always getting humbled here.


    "...Still, you''re not quite at C-rank yet."


    : Really?


    : Hmm, maybe a little short.


    : I don''t know, something feels lacking.


    : Can''t really tell.


    Her magic circulation is good, but she lacks raw magical power, and that limits her potential for explosive attacks. While this level of magic control is sufficient for the middle floors, to fight the monsters in the lower floors, she''ll need more destructive power.


    Just like Asakawa-san learned to compress her magic to increase the power of her spells, the firepower required in the lower floors is significantly higher. There are also monsters with extremely tough and thick skin down there.


    That being said, with her physical enhancements through magic circulation, if we could just upgrade her axe to something with a crazy edge, Miyamoto-san could probably make it to the lower floors. But that would be relying too much on her equipment.


    "I-I did it¡­ I somehow managed!"


    Now, what should I do from here?

 Chapter 72: Awkward Goodbyes

    I''m the type who doesn''t bring many weapons into the dungeon. Sure, I carry a sword made from deep-floor materials, but I mostly rely on magic. It''s just easier to cast spells, even though I''m more comfortable with physical combat. When I do use my sword, it''s more about the feel and the flow of battle.


    If Miyamoto-san wants to take her skills further, she''d probably benefit from advice from someone like Aizawa-san, who regularly fights with weapons. I''ll have to ask him next time we meet.


    "Do you channel magic through your weapon, Kanakon-san?"


    "Huh¡­ what?"


    : Wait, what?


    : How do you channel magic through a weapon?


    : Are we talking about magical weapons?


    : No, magical weapons have magic embedded in them during their creation.


    : Is it like making the weapon absorb magic energy?


    "Think of it like covering your body with magic, but instead, you do it to your weapon."


    "How do you even¡­ do that?"


    "Well, the fastest way is to convince yourself the weapon is just an extension of your own body."


    At least that''s how I do it. I treat my sword like it''s just another limb, channel magic into it, and increase its hardness. That way, I can draw out more power than the weapon would normally have. Of course, if you push it too far, the weapon itself can break from the strain.


    I guess it''d be easier to show her, so I pull out my katana from my shikigami, Kasha, to demonstrate.


    : He just casually pulls out his sword.


    : For a guy who''s a shikigami user, he sure fights a lot himself.


    : Everyone knows he''s stronger than his shikigami.


    : We all know this.


    : That sword looks awesome.


    : Is that custom-made?


    : The blue blade is really cool.


    I take a deep breath.


    The harder the blade, the more things it can cut through. There''s an advanced technique where you sharpen the magic around the blade to make it even more deadly. I don''t do it often since I''m not that precise during high-speed combat, but Aizawa-san apparently does. Asakawa-san, who uses a spear, is also using a simplified version of this technique, though she''s still working on it.


    I channel magic through the katana, refining the edge. Slowly honing the magic feels a bit like tuning a musical instrument¡ªsomething I enjoy when I have the time. But in real combat, I do it quickly, so it loses that charm.


    With the sword fully honed, I swing it forward. The air tears with a sharp sound, and the forest in front of me is cleanly cut down in a several-meter radius. This is the kind of skill deep-floor explorers need when wielding weapons.


    "How was that?"


    "...Are you even human?"


    "I''m human, yes."


    : No way.


    : Nope, not human.


    : I don''t know what kind of human can do this.


    : At least call it magic!


    : Somehow, magic would make it easier to accept.


    : Yeah, if it''s magic, it''s slightly less insane.


    Even if Miyamoto-san isn''t great at refining magic power, she should still be able to wrap magic around her weapon. It''s just a matter of getting used to magic manipulation. She''s already good at circulating magic, so this should be within her grasp. Though with her current magic reserves, it''ll be more of a temporary fix.


    : Can I do this too?


    : So this is what magic manipulation feels like?


    : Alright, I''m going to seriously practice magic now.


    : Are you serious? sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If you can manipulate magic, you can do it. It''s not guaranteed, but mastering magic manipulation is definitely the quickest route."


    "...M-Magic through my weapon¡­"


    Hmm, it looks like she''s still struggling with consciously controlling magic. She seems to circulate it instinctively, so maybe we need to go back to the basics.


    "Kanakon-san, first, you should focus on sensing your magic flow. Even if it''s just a vague feeling, try to become aware of it. Before bed, take about ten minutes to meditate and consciously circulate your magic."


    "Meditation? Like¡­ yoga?"


    "Well, something like that."


    It feels a bit different from that, but as long as it works for her, that''s fine. The flow of magic is a personal sensation, and my method isn''t going to work for everyone.


    : Yeah, this is tough.


    : Did anyone expect it to be easy?


    : If anyone could do it, we''d all be diving into the middle floors.


    : Man, I wish I could be a full-time explorer.


    : Keep at it.


    : Meditation, huh?


    "For now, let''s keep fighting the monsters in the middle floors."


    "Wait, what?"


    "You''ll be fine. You''ve already got the basics of channeling magic through your weapon, even if it''s a bit rough."


    : "Rough" is a mean way to say it.


    : Give her a break, man.


    : Be gentler with your words!


    : Freaking superhuman.


    : It''s still impressive if she can do it.


    : I''m literally in the Shibuya Dungeon right now, and there are people standing still with their weapons, probably trying to figure this out.


    : Don''t explore the dungeon while watching a stream, people!


    : LOL.


    : Real-time training, huh?


    Wait, there are people exploring while watching the stream? I didn''t expect that¡­ Maybe that''s where that gaze I felt earlier came from¡ªsomeone from the stream.


    "Exploring while watching is dangerous."


    : Facts.


    : Why are you suddenly the voice of reason?


    : You can''t just switch to normal logic like that.


    : Hypocrite.


    : LOL.


    : Yeah, don''t dungeon dive while watching streams (RIP me).


    : Rest in peace.


    Experience new tales on m v|l e-NovelFire


    There''s a clearing up ahead in the forest. I''ll let Miyamoto-san fight there for a while. The best way to increase magic reserves is through steady combat experience.


    "Th-Thank you¡­ for everything."


    "Good job."


    I had Miyamoto-san battle middle-floor monsters for a while before ending the stream. It might have been a bit of a dull stream, but there''s no shortcut to becoming a strong explorer. You need to hone your skills, and then it''s up to your own talent to see how far you can take it.


    "Thank you for today. I learned a lot, and the person at the reception desk said I should be able to apply for D-rank now."


    "Yes, but don''t push yourself too hard. You still need to work on the basics."


    "Y-Yes!"


    The moment you level up and can access new floors, that''s when explorers are most at risk. Specifically, when they reach D-rank and can enter the middle floors or C-rank for the lower floors. Most people don''t dive into the deep floors immediately after reaching A-rank, but that''s because B-rank explorers tend to be more experienced by that point.


    With Miyamoto-san''s current strength, there aren''t many middle-floor monsters that could seriously threaten her, but a dungeon is a place where even extreme caution might not be enough.


    "Um¡­"


    "What''s wrong?"


    What should I do¡­? I''ve helped her this much, so I wouldn''t mind if she contacted me again with questions, but we didn''t exchange contact info¡­ If I ask her for her contact now, would it come off as weird, like I''m just looking for an excuse to hit on her? Miyamoto-san''s pretty and probably sensitive to those things¡­ But if she''s going to become a top-tier explorer, wouldn''t it be better to¡ª


    "Um, could I¡­ get your contact information? I might have more questions."


    "...O-Of course!"


    Thank goodness!


    If she asked first, there''s no way it''ll seem weird. I definitely won''t come off as creepy!


    Later, when I got home and remembered exchanging contact info, I felt a little too excited and died a bit inside from embarrassment.

 Chapter 73: Thread 9: Unveiling Hidden Talents

    73: Anonymous Explorer


    I just subscribed to Kanakon-chan. From now on, I''ll be watching both Kisaragi-kun and Asagao-chan at the same time.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾73 S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Same here. By the way, Kanakon-chan is a full-time streamer, so she streams a lot during the day. As for Asagao-chan and Kisaragi-kun, they have school and requests, so a daytime streaming slot might be perfect for them.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    It couldn''t be helped. She was just too cute.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    And from now on, she''ll be a mid-floor streamer, right? I have to watch.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun should train more explorers. Then I''ll watch those streamers.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like Kisaragi-kun is a talent scout for underdog streamers. But honestly, he has a great eye for finding talented people.


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    He said he''s been keeping an eye on her for a while. He definitely watches streams pretty frequently.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, can you really tell just by watching streams? I can''t spot any differences.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t worry, I can''t tell either.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    All upper-floor streams look the same to me. The only difference I can spot is the weapons.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe explorers can see the differences more easily? If that''s the case, I wish he''d find even more interesting people.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    He doesn''t need to collaborate with them, but I''d like him to at least introduce skilled streamers.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    Like "The next breakout star, as seen by EX"?


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    But didn''t Kanakon-chan gain more viewers because she collaborated with Kisaragi-kun and got advice on becoming a mid-floor streamer?


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    Dude, just focus on doing one deep-floor stream a month and collaborate the rest of the time to train others.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    A training streamer? That''s hilarious.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    Please don''t create a whole new genre of streams.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s no surprise Kisaragi-kun took notice. I didn''t get what was so special about her at first, but by the end of the stream, she was like a different person.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾91


    Well, the training was brutal, though.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    It can''t be helped. To survive the mid-floors, you need to push yourself to that level.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop with the "Kisaragi-kun method."


    95: Anonymous Explorer Enjoy more content from m-v l''e-NovelFire


    I''d rather take it slow... I don''t want to train like I''m about to die.


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    But in the end, Kisaragi-kun didn''t step in to help even once. There were a few close calls, and the comment section was freaking out.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    She didn''t lose any limbs, right? So it''s all good.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s recall what Kisaragi-kun casually muttered during the stream:


    "If you lose a limb or two, you won''t die. And if it happens, can''t you just reattach them?"


    Is this guy insane?


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    You have to be a bit crazy to become EX.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾99


    Stop being so blunt!


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, but still¡­ there has to be something more to it, right!?


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, it''s the mid-floors we''re talking about¡­ maybe it''s just necessary?


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    Y''all are way too conditioned by now.


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, the anti-thread exploded again.


    105: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾104


    Just ignore them.


    106: Anonymous Explorer


    "They should report this if Kanakon gets hurt. This is practically abuse!"


    These are the kind of people we''re dealing with. Don''t expect to have a rational conversation.


    107: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾106


    She agreed to the training herself. Also, while he didn''t step in, Kisaragi-kun did secretly take care of a few extra monsters and dealt with some that snuck up behind her.


    108: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾107


    He does it so casually that you barely notice, but he''s doing insane stuff.


    109: Anonymous Explorer


    It really reminds you he''s EX level.


    110: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d be willing to risk some injuries if it meant getting that strong. I want Kisaragi-kun to train me too.


    111: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾110


    He''s mostly just helping people hone their natural talents. It''s not something anyone can do. I mean, I have no clue how to circulate magic, so it''d be impossible for me.


    112: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, it''s tough.


    113: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾110


    Even if you paid him, you''d still need talent. Kanakon-chan is good at manipulating and circulating magic, which is why she benefited from the training.


    114: Anonymous Explorer


    I heard that EX Salaryman is the best at magic manipulation and circulation. He must be a close-combat monster with insane circulation.


    115: Anonymous Explorer


    He carries a shield too, so I''m betting he uses manipulation to make himself a tank.


    116: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, Kisaragi said Jinguuji Kaede is the most insane when it comes to using magic. Even he doesn''t get how she does it.


    117: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, not Kamishiro Rion?


    118: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾117


    I thought so too.


    119: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the next stream going to be?


    120: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾119


    Probably more of Kanakon-chan''s training, right?


    121: Anonymous Explorer


    Bring out Jinguuji Kaede next time.


    122: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to see him dive into the deep floors with EX Salaryman.


    123: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Salaryman is mostly involved in teaching B rank and higher explorers, so maybe Kisaragi-kun could tag along?


    124: Anonymous Explorer


    Would that even count as teaching?


    125: Anonymous Explorer


    Absolutely not. I guarantee it.


    126: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾125


    The lack of faith is hilarious.


    127: Anonymous Explorer


    Next, he should collaborate with Panda. I bet after this stream, he''s getting flooded with collaboration requests.


    128: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾127


    Of course, he raised Kanakon-chan from E-rank to D-rank in just one day. But I doubt he''ll accept most of the offers.


    129: Anonymous Explorer


    He usually does pretty casual streams, and even though the collaboration with Kanakon-chan seemed a bit reckless, he clearly did his homework. He knew what kind of weapon she uses, her fighting style, and how well she manipulates magic. So the next new talent discovery collaboration will probably take a while.


    130: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾129


    That actually makes a lot of sense.

 Chapter 74: Thread 10: The Next Collaboration?

    131: Anonymous Explorer


    If you think about it, he must''ve been keeping tabs on Kanakon-chan for quite some time before all this.


    132: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾131


    In other words¡­ Asagao-chan has a rival now?


    133: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾132


    Ah¡­


    134: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾132


    True, though. A younger guy who''s been watching over her, helped raise her rank after she was stuck for so long¡­ I mean, yeah¡­


    135: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve done it now, Kisaragi-kun.


    136: Anonymous Explorer


    This guy¡­ I bet he''s secretly popular with girls.


    137: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾136


    But only when he''s doing explorer stuff. In his casual streams, you can see hints that he''s just as much of an introvert as the rest of us.


    138: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, I can''t laugh because I totally get what you mean.


    139: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun (not saying what exactly):


    Asagao-chan


    Kamishiro Rion


    Kanakon-chan


    So far, that''s three.


    140: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder what this is all about...


    141: Anonymous Explorer


    What could it be referring to?


    142: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾139


    The love interests, obviously (straightforward).


    143: Anonymous Explorer


    Ah, you idiot.


    144: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t just say it directly like that!


    145: Anonymous Explorer


    Guess I''ll take this (to the anti-thread)!


    146: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t take it there!


    147: Anonymous Explorer


    Do anti-threads really freak out just because Kisaragi-kun gets attention from girls? If Asagao-chan has unicorn fans, just tell them to ship him with Kamishiro Rion, problem solved.


    148: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾147


    Those guys are monsters who only want to see others suffer. No matter who gives Kisaragi-kun positive attention, they''re going to get mad.


    149: Anonymous Explorer


    (Why don''t they just tell him directly?)


    150: Anonymous Explorer


    (Because no one''s brave enough to talk directly to an EX explorer.)


    151: Anonymous Explorer


    (Internet tough guys, huh?)


    152: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾147


    You''re talking about people who are in love with a high school girl and are jealous of her high school classmate. Obviously, they''re not going to make any sense.


    153: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s so bad, it''s actually funny.


    154: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s harsh, but¡­ honestly, yeah, that''s exactly what''s happening.


    155: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, it''s not even an anti-thread. It''s just a crybaby thread where people whine about Kisaragi-kun.


    156: Anonymous Explorer


    Explore stories at m,v l''e-NovelFire.net


    There''s no real conversation happening, it''s just people crying. You''re better off thinking of them as animals making noise.


    157: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾156


    Don''t even bother reading those threads. You''ll get dragged into their madness. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    158: Anonymous Explorer


    If you try to understand the thought process of crazy people, you''ll end up crazy yourself. Just limit your exposure.


    159: Anonymous Explorer


    Reading the posts there genuinely feels like it''s rotting my brain. It''s seriously dangerous.


    160: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Kisaragi-kun keeps throwing fuel on the fire, as usual.


    [Image]


    161: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾160


    Why are these two flirting on social media?


    162: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾160


    Lol, they''re just casually chatting on Twitter, and it''s hilarious.


    163: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, Kisaragi-kun just responds to any replies he finds interesting. He probably doesn''t even think of himself as a famous person.


    164: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾160


    "Hey, I watched your stream with Kanakon-san! Can you teach me about magic circulation next time?"


    "You''re already good at it, Asagao-san. Just focus on increasing your magic reserves."


    "No way, I couldn''t even pierce the Frost Wyvern''s skin!"


    "No, your spear broke, but you were definitely piercing it."


    "Just teach me next time! Doesn''t have to be during a stream."


    "No thanks. I don''t have anything to teach you."


    "C''mon! You even took me on that date just to chat the other day!"


    He casually revealed that they hang out off-stream, and it''s hilarious.


    165: Anonymous Explorer


    That one word, "date," made the whole Gachi-koi crowd explode, huh?


    166: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t that basically her staking her claim? Like, "This guy''s mine."


    167: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this the battle between women we''ve been waiting for?


    [Image]


    168: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾167


    Lol.


    169: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t you dare get involved.


    170: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion throwing shade is killing me.


    171: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re just saying they''re going to a baseball game today, right? (playing dumb).


    172: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no reason to tell Asagao-chan about that, though.


    173: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Kisaragi-kun is completely ignoring the rivalry and chatting with Kanakon-chan on Twitter.


    [Image]


    174: Anonymous Explorer


    This guy has to be doing it on purpose. If he''s not, he''s just completely oblivious.


    175: Anonymous Explorer


    I honestly think he''s just oblivious. Outside of exploring dungeons, he has insanely low self-esteem. You can tell from some of his casual social media posts.


    176: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾175


    Seriously? That''s actually kind of dark.


    177: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun has casually mentioned it a few times on stream, but he grew up in an orphanage. He doesn''t have parents. That''s probably part of it.


    178: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾177


    Dude, that''s rough¡­ I didn''t expect this conversation to go there. It''s actually impressive he turned out so normal.


    179: Anonymous Explorer


    Is he really normal, though? There are definitely parts of him that seem a little broken. It''s hard to tell if he became EX because of that, or if being EX made him that way.


    180: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾178


    "Normal" isn''t exactly the right word, huh?


    181: Anonymous Explorer


    So, are we getting another collaboration with Kanakon-chan soon? Or is he just chatting with her?


    182: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾181


    From the conversation, it seems like she''s just thanking him for the collaboration. Nothing more than that.


    183: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve been living for Kisaragi-kun''s streams lately, so I hope he keeps them coming.


    184: Anonymous Explorer


    Same here. His streams are always entertaining, even when it''s just casual chat.


    185: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, he can just chat the entire time, and it''d still be fun. But his deep-floor dives are something else.


    186: Anonymous Explorer


    I wouldn''t mind if he goes deeper into lore or mechanics sometime. But I doubt that''s his style.


    187: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾186


    Yeah, Kisaragi-kun''s more about action than talking about theory.


    188: Anonymous Explorer


    I agree. Even though he explains stuff, it''s always in a laid-back, practical way. No unnecessary lecturing.


    189: Anonymous Explorer


    I think that''s what makes him appealing. He''s relatable but still does things we can''t even dream of.


    190: Anonymous Explorer


    Speaking of, when''s the next deep-floor stream?


    191: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾190


    If he sticks to his once-a-month deep-floor plan, we should be getting one soon, right?


    192: Anonymous Explorer


    I hope so! Those streams are wild.


    193: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t wait to see him tackle something insane again.


    194: Anonymous Explorer


    As long as the next stream doesn''t turn into some love-triangle drama, I''m good.


    195: Anonymous Explorer


    Haha, with all the girls around him, it''s starting to feel more like a romance show than a dungeon stream.


    196: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, as long as he keeps diving into the deep floors, we''ll be watching.

 Chapter 75: Showdown with the Queen

    "Come with me for a minute."


    "Huh... what?"


    I thought some crazy thug was picking a fight with me, but it turned out to be grandma. No, she''s always been scarier than any street punk, and even now, she''s still as forceful as ever. I can''t help but think her husband must have been a saint or a Buddha to marry her.


    Kamishiro Kaede¡­ Since the early days of Japan''s dungeons, she has been an unparalleled explorer, the only one in Japan to have conquered the deepest levels of a dungeon. Her skill and her title, "The Fastest Explorer," are renowned both in Japan and abroad, making her the reigning queen of Japan''s dungeon-exploring world.


    "So, what''s this about, all of a sudden?"


    "I want you to spar with my students."


    "Me? Spar with your students?"


    The word "students" might sound a bit mysterious, but Kamishiro Kaede runs a special dojo where she trains dungeon explorers. I''ve never been one of her students, but it''s the biggest training facility in the country, and apparently, there are a lot of trainees. When she says she wants me to spar with them, she probably means something simple, like a practice match.


    Though honestly, I feel like she could just do it herself.


    "Let me be clear, I want you to go all out."


    "...What?"


    I''m not bragging, but if I go all out, most explorers will go down in an instant... or at least that''s how I feel. I was thinking this as I got into the car and was driven to the dojo. Now, I kind of regret agreeing to this.


    "Why are these guys B and C rank...?"


    "Next."


    I was sitting there, fiddling with the wooden sword I had been given, when a deep voice echoed through the dojo, signaling the next opponent. A huge guy stepped forward. He was unarmed, but I guess it''s fine for me to use a wooden sword since grandma didn''t say anything.


    "Pleased to meet you!"


    "Y-yeah, you too."


    Apparently, the people I''m sparring with are high-rank explorers from grandma''s dojo. But there are also a lot of younger explorers, about my age, sitting in the audience watching, so it''s probably a demonstration for their benefit too. Just like I train up people I find talented, grandma''s also training a bunch of newcomers. I guess showing them a match with someone closer to their age makes sense.


    "Begin!"


    As soon as the referee''s voice rang out, the muscular guy closed the distance. The only prohibited moves in this spar are offensive magic. That means the guy in front of me is fully utilizing his magic control and circulation. When he launched a right straight punch, I dodged it with minimal movement, stepping back. Immediately, he followed up with a roundhouse kick.


    I guess that''s one difference between fighting monsters and humans. Though, I caught it with my left hand easily enough.


    "What the...?"


    "You''re full of openings."


    Since she told me to go all out, I won''t hold back, even against an older opponent. He crossed his arms to defend against my warning strike, but I slammed a palm strike into his guard, sending him flying into the dojo wall.


    "That''s enough!"


    "It seems like you usually concentrate magic in your fists for your attacks, but that kick was pretty sloppy."


    "Guh... th-thank you very much!"


    "Thank you very much."


    "Next."


    Is this really okay? Grandma''s just sitting there, watching, and the only words she''s uttering are "Next" whenever an opponent is defeated.


    "Pleased to meet you."


    "Pleased to meet you too."


    "Begin!"


    The next challenger was a slender woman, holding short wooden swords in both hands. She took a stance and moved forward with a deceptive rhythm, a style clearly designed to confuse the senses. It was the kind of movement meant to trick intelligent opponents. But her rapid attacks were no match for grandma''s, so I blocked them all with my left hand, not even bothering to use my sword.


    "!? What...?"


    "Oh."


    Realizing her attacks weren''t landing, she threw one of her wooden swords at me. I casually deflected it with my left hand, and when she used the sword as a distraction to close the distance, I sliced her remaining wooden sword in half using magic-enhanced precision.


    "...Huh?"


    "It''s over."


    "I-I yield..."


    "That''s enough."


    When you cut someone''s sword cleanly in two, they usually freeze for a moment. Taking advantage of that, I tapped my wooden sword against her neck, and she quickly surrendered.


    It seems some of the challengers watching have seen my streams and are sweating a bit, seeing me fight without using my familiars. People often assume that familiar users like me are physically weak, but my mentor is Kamishiro Kaede.


    "...This is boring. I''m going next."


    "...Wait, what!?"


    Why!? Isn''t this supposed to be a show for the new explorers, with some training thrown in for the more experienced ones?


    "What are you surprised about? These young fools were just warm-ups... I haven''t had a good match in a while, so I''m stepping in myself."


    "Uh... but...?"


    Do we really need to do this? I mean, if I don''t use my familiars, she''s just stronger than me. Japan''s strongest explorer isn''t a title she holds for no reason!


    "I''m getting old, you know... It''s about time you stop messing around and take on the title of Japan''s strongest."


    "No, no, no... I''m only 18."


    Read the latest on m_v-l''e|m,p| y- r


    "All the more reason. Youth is an advantage."


    She''s serious. It''s been about a year since I last fought grandma properly, and honestly, I don''t think I can win. It''s not about my current skill level; it''s just that the image of Kamishiro Kaede in my mind is unshakable.


    "Come at me whenever you''re ready."


    "... Please go easy on me."


    "Begin!" S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The moment the referee shouted "begin," I crouched on the spot. At the same time, a kick from grandma, who had somehow moved behind me without me noticing, sailed over where my head had been.


    "Not bad."


    "Do you know how many times I''ve been kicked in the back of the head by you!?"


    After enduring countless harsh training sessions where grandma''s kicks landed on my head, I''d learned. At first, I couldn''t even react, but now I can! I''m going to beat her this time. She started this fight, so I''m not holding back!

 Chapter 76: Grandma’s Unstoppable Force

    She moves at such an incredible speed that even the sound of her movement lags behind. It''s impossible for me to directly counter her attacks. My eyes can barely keep up, but matching her speed and attacking is just out of the question. So, the only strategy left to me is¡­ counter-attacking!


    "You think you can keep up with my movements?"


    "...!"


    The most terrifying thing about grandma isn''t just her speed but the fact that she can stop and accelerate without any warning. Even when she''s moving faster than sound, she doesn''t give off any hints when she stops, and she doesn''t have to decelerate like normal people. If you know how she''s achieving this level of speed, it makes sense in a way, but it''s still unreal.


    Although grandma mostly fights with high-speed hand-to-hand combat, her true specialty is offensive magic. I''m not using my familiar techniques, and she''s not using offensive magic, so we''re both handicapped from our strongest areas. Still, grandma is overwhelmingly stronger than the explorers I just fought at the dojo.


    Her mastery of magic circulation is absurdly good, and her magic control is so precise it''s frightening. The guy I fought earlier mainly used his fists, which meant he wasn''t great at controlling magic through his legs. But grandma? She fights using magic, and her attacks, even without magic, are terrifyingly sharp. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Good... I''m just getting started."


    "Please spare me!"


    I dodged her straight punch and immediately swung my wooden sword for a counterattack, but it cut through nothing but air. I followed my instincts and leaped back, narrowly avoiding the whoosh of her kick as it sliced through the air. As I landed, I swung the wooden sword behind me, only for her to easily deflect it.


    I pushed my magic circulation and control to the max, stepping forward. I swung the wooden sword with all my strength, feeling it graze grandma''s karate uniform. Just as I felt the slight resistance of contact, a shock hit my left hand, which I had raised to guard my temple.


    "Ouch! That''s definitely broken!"


    "It''s not broken."


    My left hand is throbbing in pain! But I''m not completely out of sync. Before she overwhelms me, I have to hit her with a stronger counterattack. Forget about holding back for the dojo; that thought has long vanished!


    "W-whoa!?"


    "She''s a... monster."


    Grandma and I stepped forward simultaneously, and the impact shook the entire dojo, cracking the floor under our feet. Just like how she moves faster than sound, I ran forward at top speed. If I just waited, counterattacking would''ve been easier, but by moving first, I hoped to limit her attack angles.


    In my heightened perception of time, I could see grandma slowly extending her palm toward me. I swung my wooden sword, but halfway through, it snapped. Even so, I thrust the broken hilt toward her solar plexus. Just as I thought I had landed the hit, her palm strike, which had shattered my sword, rammed into my side with unrelenting force. This... is bad.


    "Ugh!"


    That hurt... It was enough to rattle my consciousness, and I could hardly breathe. I''m pretty sure she cracked one of my ribs. I went flying through the wall next to the spectator seats and into the dojo courtyard... But at least this time, it felt like a draw.


    "That''s enough! Are you okay, Kamishiro-san?"


    "Call me Sensei... It''s been a while since I''ve taken a hit like that."


    "Phew... That really hurt."


    "You little brat... Don''t go slamming a wooden sword into an old woman''s solar plexus without mercy."


    What do you mean, old woman? Even though grandma''s a bit wobbly, she still looks like she could keep going. Well... considering how small this dojo is, we probably couldn''t continue at this level anyway.


    "Did they... just crack the dojo floor?"


    "So this is... what EX-level fighting looks like?"


    "Is Tsukasa Kisaragi stronger because he''s younger?"


    "No, Kamishiro Sensei isn''t using any offensive magic..."


    "Well, Tsukasa Kisaragi isn''t using magic either."


    "Enough with the chatter. Let''s continue."


    "I''m taking a break..."


    Man, it''s been a long time since I''ve been in a fight that left me with bone damage. I haven''t had a fight in the dungeon that''s hurt me like this in ages... though I''ve always been uncomfortable with fighting other people.


    "Phew... You''ve already surpassed me."


    "Are we really having this conversation again?"


    "It''s the truth. If this had been a fight without restrictions, you know which one of us would''ve won."


    "I don''t know about that."


    "You''re too young to play dumb... Familiar techniques alone make you that powerful."


    Well... the book about familiar techniques that grandma gave me was labeled "secret," after all. I''m pretty sure most people aren''t supposed to have access to that.


    "I always intended for you to be my successor when I recommended you for EX. It''s time for you to take the mantle of Japan''s strongest... Don''t make an old woman keep doing all the work."


    "C''mon now..."


    If I were to take on the title of Japan''s strongest, I''d have to be the representative in a lot of meetings and speeches, right? That sounds way too high-level for me...


    "I guess it''s about time I retire."


    "What?"


    The association is going to beg her not to retire, I bet. In today''s world, Kamishiro Kaede''s name is one of Japan''s greatest assets. Even if I beat her in a fair fight and took the title of Japan''s strongest, there''s no way I could replace the impact she''s had for so many years.


    "I guess my last task will be conquering the Sapporo Dungeon."


    "If you do that, you''ll never be able to retire."


    That would be like a baseball player hitting a home run in every at-bat during their retirement game. It''d just make everyone ask why she''s retiring. Are you really serious about retiring?


    "That said, EX ranks aren''t increasing much... I guess I''ll stay active a little longer."


    "...It''d be a problem if we started getting too many EX-rank explorers, honestly."


    "We''ve had two new EXs in the past few years. I thought we''d see a few more by now."


    Well, there''s not much I can say to that. But you can''t really compare me and Kamishiro to the others. Even countries as big as the U.S. don''t have more than 10 EXs, so isn''t four EXs in Japan more than enough?


    "Ahh... More weaklings are joining the ranks these days. I guess I''ll have to tighten up the training."


    "...If you make it any tougher, there''ll be deaths, you know?"


    This dojo already pushes people so hard that tons of trainees quit. If she makes it any harder, I''m sure even fewer will stick around. Find exclusive stories on m_v l|e-NovelFire.net

 Chapter 77: A Beach Date, An Aquarium, and Sapporo’s Final Mission

    As the pain from the blows subsided, I returned to the dojo, only to be surrounded by people bombarding me with questions.


    "How did you get so strong?"


    "How can someone so young have this much power?"


    "I watch your streams all the time!"


    The truth is, there isn''t a one-size-fits-all answer for how to become strong. Everyone''s path is different, so honestly, they should be asking the master¡ªmy grandmother, rather than me.


    I was born with an unusually high amount of magic compared to others. My grandmother taught me how to use it effectively, and eventually, I became an EX-level explorer through my mastery of shikigami arts and necromancy. So, most of what I can teach is just what my grandmother taught me. I don''t have as much personal experience as they might think. The path I walked isn''t easily replicated by others.


    What worked for me might not necessarily work for anyone else.


    "There''s no shortcut to getting strong. This kid was just born strong."


    "No, that''s not true¡ª"


    "Shut up... This one just didn''t know how to use the talent he was born with. As for you lot, you''re lacking in talent to begin with, so you better make up for it through hard work."


    Apparently, in my grandmother''s eyes, I''m just some wild child with great physical abilities who learned modern combat techniques. It seems like the older folks around us accepted that reasoning, but the younger generation looked less convinced. My grandmother didn''t say anything else, though, as she continued to sit there, overseeing the entire dojo with an air of authority. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I still wasn''t sure why I was invited to the dojo today, but since my match with my grandmother was over, I might as well offer to spar with anyone who wants to test themselves. After all, it''s part of the training for them to experience sparring against a high-level opponent.


    In the end, I spent the entire day sparring with those who volunteered. Halfway through, I ditched the wooden sword and just sparred barehanded. But honestly, there wasn''t anyone who made me feel like I needed to put in much effort. That''s probably for the best¡ªif there had been, it would''ve been a whole different story.


    Still, there were a few people whose movements noticeably improved while sparring with me. Those explorers might eventually become top-tier if they continue training. They''ve got potential, that much is clear.


    "Hmm?"


    As I was being driven home from the dojo, I noticed a message on my phone. I had a few, but the only person who sends me proper messages is Asagawa.


    [Summer break is almost over, huh?]


    [I realized I haven''t been to the beach this year.]


    [You''ve been in dungeons the whole time, right?]


    Ugh¡­ how do I respond to this? I know what she''s getting at. She''s inviting me to go to the beach with her, right? It''s still incredibly hot, even at the end of August, so there''s nothing wrong with going to the beach. The real issue is... can I actually go to the beach with Asagawa?


    I mean, can I really pull off that kind of extroverted activity? Me... going to the beach with Asagawa?


    [Just the two of us, by the way.]


    That''s unnecessary information. But then again, it would be even worse if she invited a bunch of classmates. I''d end up being the odd one out, awkwardly standing around while they chatted away. I''ve never had friends, but I imagine that''s how it would go.


    "How should I reply..."


    Maybe I should just decline from the start? If I''m going to regret it afterward, I might as well explain why I can''t go and politely decline. That way, I wouldn''t make her feel uncomfortable.


    [If you''re not into the beach, we can go somewhere else, like the aquarium?]


    [Let''s go to the aquarium then.]


    [You really don''t like it, huh? That made me laugh.]


    Phew... I managed to downgrade this to a normal outing. Did I, though? Isn''t the aquarium a classic date spot? Did she set me up?


    No, I''m overthinking it. Jumping to conclusions and letting my thoughts spiral like this is one of those bad habits introverts have.


    [So, an aquarium date it is.]


    Wait... maybe I''ve been played.


    Ah, well. An aquarium, huh? The last time I went was on a school trip back in elementary school. It''s not exactly a place I''d visit on my own. It''s not that I dislike aquariums, but who goes there alone just to look at fish?


    After replying to Asagawa, thinking I was done, I received another message. Did she forget to mention something?


    [Heyyy, Tsukkun!]


    [Please be brief.]


    [If it''s something trivial, I''m going to ignore it.]


    I like to get ahead of things.


    I really don''t enjoy messaging with this person. She tends to go on and on without any real substance.


    [What do you even think of me?]


    [This is about the next mission.]


    The next mission?


    I haven''t heard about any upcoming missions, though... What''s this about?


    [I''m not aware of any mission.]


    [Really? There''s talk of making a final push to conquer the Sapporo Dungeon.]


    [And apparently, they''re planning to mobilize all EX-ranked explorers.]


    Huh? Are they serious?


    Japan, despite being a dungeon superpower, has never conquered another dungeon since Jinguji Kaede cleared the Takayama Dungeon. Compared to other dungeon superpowers, Japan hasn''t been very aggressive about dungeon conquests, partly due to a lack of manpower.


    It seems like the government wants to finally conquer one to show they''re making progress. And it makes sense they''d choose Sapporo Dungeon since it''s one of the more advanced ones in terms of exploration.


    Experience more content on m v|l e''-NovelFire.net


    [Got it.]


    [I''ll check with Shinanome for the details.]


    [Not me?]


    [I''d rather ask Aizawa than you.]


    [That''s so mean! Tsukkun? Tsukkun??]


    Alright, that''s enough. She may remember important things, but she never remembers the details. I''ll ask someone else.


    But if this Sapporo Dungeon thing is real, it could be a huge deal. Conquering the Sapporo Dungeon would be humanity''s first successful conquest of a dungeon with deep layers in a long time. This could be Jinguji Kaede''s last mission as an active explorer.


    Guess I''d better prepare.

 Chapter 78: Sapporo Dungeon Conquest

    "The deepest floor humanity has reached in the Sapporo Dungeon is the 76th. The deepest dungeon ever recorded by humans is the Berlin Dungeon in Germany, which goes down to the 97th floor," said Shishijima-san.


    "The recent achievement by Kisaragi and Kamishiro in Shibuya Dungeon¡ªreaching the 86th floor¡ªset the record for Japan''s deepest level observed. But the Sapporo Dungeon is expected to go even deeper."


    "So, what''s your point?" Kamishiro asked, raising her hand lazily while munching on a doughnut.


    Both Shishijima-san and Aizawa sighed simultaneously at her reaction, while my grandmother, as usual, remained uninterested. The high-ranking explorers surrounding us, many of whom were A or S rank, also seemed exasperated.


    "What I''m saying is that this will be a challenge that will go down in Japan''s history," Shishijima explained patiently.


    "Oh, okay¡­ but why now all of a sudden?" Kamishiro asked.


    "Because I''m about to retire," Grandma chimed in casually.


    "What!? You''re retiring!?" Kamishiro suddenly turned serious, visibly shocked by the news.


    Despite her usual laid-back attitude, Kamishiro held genuine respect for my grandmother. After all, the reason we met was because, back when Kamishiro was still A-rank, she picked a fight with me when Grandma declared me her successor. The fight escalated into an actual fistfight because Kamishiro couldn''t accept that her idol, Grandma, had chosen me to be her heir.


    "But you''re so much stronger than me! How can you retire?" Kamishiro stammered.


    "That''s right," Grandma replied without hesitation.


    "You don''t have to rub it in!" Kamishiro whined. "Can''t you at least believe in my abilities a little?"


    Honestly, though, having sparred with Grandma recently, I can confidently say she''s not slowing down at all. She''s just as fast and powerful as ever. Even though Kamishiro and Grandma have somewhat similar fighting styles, Grandma''s unique ability for high-speed movement makes her practically unbeatable.


    "Let''s continue the meeting," Aizawa interjected. "The Sapporo Dungeon is an icy cave where most monsters resemble inorganic materials. The Association classifies these creatures as ''Golem-types.''"


    "Like the Crystal Golem, which is where I get the material for the shield I use to scatter magic energy," Aizawa explained.


    "Ugh, I hate golems," Kamishiro grumbled. "Magic doesn''t work well against them."


    Honestly, the fact that magic even works at all on those monsters is baffling enough, considering their natural resistance. But speaking of important matters...


    "Shishijima-san, would it be possible to stream the dungeon conquest?" I asked.


    "...EXs, I swear," Shishijima-san muttered under his breath, as if he had just labeled me a troublemaker.


    Did he just throw shade at me?


    "Technically, there''s no rule against it," Shishijima-san said after a pause. "But really, you should consider being more... cooperative."


    "It could serve as a perfect video record," I offered, hoping to justify the idea.


    "Could you not suggest things no one has even thought of?" Aizawa sighed.


    "Whose side are you on, Tsukkun!?" Kamishiro protested.


    "I''m on the side of common sense," I replied. Which meant I was usually on Aizawa''s side in these situations.


    "I think it''s a good idea," Aizawa said. "Considering Japan wants to demonstrate that it''s actively tackling dungeon challenges, Kisaragi''s streaming channel could be a powerful tool."


    "I''m not familiar with the internet, but the more eyes there are on the situation, the harder it is to hide any shady dealings," Grandma added in her usual nonchalant way.


    "Personally, I''d like to allow it," Shishijima-san said, still hesitant. "But as head of the Association, I''ll need to consult the government before making any decisions. I''ll do my best to convince them."


    Yes! Finally, I''d get to showcase more than just the Shibuya and Hachioji Dungeons. I was already excited at the thought of showing my viewers what it''s like to explore uncharted dungeon floors. The thrill of venturing into unknown territories was something I lived for, and now I could share it with my audience again.


    "On the day of the conquest, we''ll send a team of A- and S-rank explorers to follow after you for support. The four EXs will lead the charge into the unexplored depths. It will be dangerous, so exercise caution," Shishijima-san advised.


    "I''ve gotten used to exploring dangerous deep floors. The government''s had me doing solo reconnaissance for years," Grandma said with a shrug.


    "Heh, Kisaragi, just don''t rush ahead recklessly. And Kamishiro, please don''t blow up the dungeon with your magic," Aizawa warned, half-serious.


    Wait, am I really being lumped in with Kamishiro as someone who needs to be cautioned? Then again, I''ve never actually explored deep floors in a party before, so coordinating with others could be tricky. Still, as long as I follow Aizawa and Grandma''s lead, it should work out.


    With the four of us, Aizawa will likely take the frontlines, Grandma and I will cover the mid-range, and Kamishiro will be providing magical support from the rear. But honestly... having Kamishiro in the back feels a bit concerning.


    "I wonder how many viewers I''d get if I stream the conquest?" Kamishiro mused, her eyes lighting up.


    "Kamishiro, were you even paying attention to what Aizawa just said?" I asked, skeptical.


    "I was listening! I just need to blast everything from the back, right?"


    "You weren''t listening at all!"


    Kamishiro grinned, clearly unconcerned about the logistics. Sure, firing off spells from a distance is probably the right strategy, but if she destroys half the dungeon in the process, we''ll have bigger problems.


    "The conquest will take place a week from now, on August 31st," Shishijima-san announced, wrapping up the meeting.


    "Isn''t that the last day of summer break?" Kamishiro asked, tilting her head.


    "We still have another week after that," Aizawa corrected. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Oh, right. Well, I dropped out of college, so I''m free anyway!"


    Of course she dropped out¡­ Why am I not surprised? I bet if I asked why, I''d get a ridiculous answer, so I won''t even bother.


    Still, the Sapporo Dungeon, huh? It''s been about a year since I last went there. This is my first dungeon conquest mission as an EX explorer, but honestly, it doesn''t feel much different from the usual deep-floor requests I''ve handled. The only thing that excites me is the chance to explore new, uncharted floors.


    "...Just don''t slow us down, kid," Grandma warned Kamishiro.


    "I''ll be fine! I''ve got Aizawa and Tsukkun with me, so we''ve got this!" Kamishiro declared confidently.


    "I don''t know what you think you''re so confident about, but I''ll do my best to keep things under control, Jinguji-san," Aizawa reassured.


    "Don''t get me wrong, Aizawa, I''m not worried about you," Grandma said, crossing her arms. "It''s the kid I''m concerned about."


    Kamishiro groaned in frustration, but knowing the team I had with me, I wasn''t too worried either. Whatever the depths of the Sapporo Dungeon held, we''d handle it¡ªhopefully in time to make it back by the end of the day. Your next read awaits at m v|l-e''-NovelFire.net

 Chapter 79: The Calm Before the Deep Dive!

    "Alright, hey there¡­ This is kind of a sudden stream, but today, we''ll be diving into the Sapporo Dungeon. It''s a city dungeon, so there might be other streamers usually covering it, but I think I can give you a fresh experience today. I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa, thanks for tuning in!"


    : LOL


    : Sudden stream (lmao), stop it


    : Dude, you''re acting like this is a regular day, but it''s on the news right now?


    : I''m laughing


    : It''s on TV, too


    : "We''re going to dive into the Sapporo Dungeon" (serious dungeon conquest)


    Honestly, I thought it would be a long shot, but I didn''t expect to actually get permission to stream. Right now, I''m standing in front of the Sapporo Dungeon, just waiting for the start time. There are a ton of TV cameras here, and they''re scrambling to get shots of all the EX-ranked explorers in one frame.


    Aizawa-san is walking around busily, Grandma is casually sipping coffee, and¡ªpredictably¡ªKamishiro-san is nowhere to be seen.


    "Hey, Aizawa-san, where''s Kamishiro?"


    "Huh? Oh¡­ She said she forgot something and went to a convenience store."


    "Does she have zero sense of cooperation?"


    "Yeah, pretty much."


    : "Yeah, pretty much," LOL


    : Why is this so normal?


    : What did she forget?


    : Probably a neck warmer or something


    : For going into a dungeon''s deep floors?


    : Sounds about right


    : EX problems


    : This is too much, I''m dying


    Looking at the comments, it seems like a lot of new viewers are here because of the news coverage. In other words, there are a lot of first-timers who usually don''t watch my streams. I''d love to try and grab their attention, but I don''t really have any tricks up my sleeve for that.


    By the way, the Sapporo Dungeon conquest has been widely covered by the media, and apparently, viewers are tuning in from all over the world. It''s becoming harder to pick out the Japanese comments among the flood of foreign ones.


    "Comments are coming in fast today, so I''ll only be picking out the ones I can catch."


    : Why do you sound so chill?


    : Is it though?


    : This seems like the usual for him.


    : I''m new here


    : First-timer


    : New viewers probably don''t get it Sear?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Came here from watching Asagao-chan''s stream


    : Asagao-chan''s mirroring this, LOL


    "Wait, is Asagao-san really mirroring my stream?"


    I don''t think it would be fun for anyone to watch a simultaneous viewing stream, but¡­ maybe it''s like when I watch Torimomo Sasami''s stream and chat while doing so?


    : No, a bunch of people are mirroring you


    : Torimomo is also doing a chat stream while watching, no video though


    : This is huge news, that''s why


    : There''s a lot of mirrors overseas too


    : You''re famous now


    : Duh, of course


    "Sorry for the wait! I bought some hand warmers and drinks!"


    "..."


    : Hand warmers and drinks, really?


    : She''s something else


    : Kamishiro-san, classic


    : She''s always doing this kind of stuff


    : I can''t handle her


    This person really can''t read the room. Hand warmers, sure, maybe you''ll need them. But drinks? The Association provided plenty. Then again, knowing her, she probably only cares about having her favorite drink, so whatever.


    I didn''t have much to prep, so I finished early and just started chatting with the viewers. Then, a swarm of TV reporters started closing in on me.


    "Are you Kisaragi Tsukasa, the EX-ranked explorer known as UNKNOWN? Could we ask you a few questions?"


    "Uh, is there anything I can really talk about?"


    "Why did you suddenly start revealing your personal information recently? What made you begin streaming?"


    "Could you comment on the other EXs?"


    "Do you have any thoughts on the Sapporo Dungeon conquest?"


    "What about your record-setting dive in the Shibuya Dungeon?"


    "You''re streaming during a serious dungeon conquest¡ªisn''t that a bit irresponsible?"


    Ugh¡­ I''m about to dive into the Sapporo Dungeon, and I''m being bombarded with questions. This is exactly the kind of thing I was trying to avoid by moving around all the time. Why do I have to deal with this even after coming all the way to Sapporo?


    : He looks super annoyed, LOL


    : Them saying it''s irresponsible is really annoying


    : They''re probably trying to rile you up


    : They think they can push him around because he''s 18


    : They don''t realize he''s one of the strongest humans alive


    : C''mon, reporters, have some tact


    : Ask him after the dungeon, geez


    : Gotta love that "freedom of the press," huh?


    "Pipe down, will ya? Quit your chirping."


    Whoa.


    Grandma''s mad because they were being too noisy. It seems like even the reporters understood that they''d crossed a line because the tone of the questions immediately softened, and the number of questions dropped significantly. Well, it''s no surprise. Even they know how scary Grandma can be.


    "We''re about to head out, Kisaragi."


    "Oh, got it."


    : Grandma, mad grandma is mad


    : Run, reporters, run


    : She''s terrifying


    : Honestly, understandable


    Sorry, media folks, but I''m really not a fan of interviews. If you want to send me a question via SNS, maybe I''ll respond. But barging into my space and demanding answers is a no-go.


    Even as we prepared to leave, some reporters were still pushing forward for more questions. But the moment I summoned my flaming chariot, Kasha, to draw my sword, they all scattered like cockroaches.


    : Scattered like bugs, LOL


    : They ran off, LOL


    : That flaming chariot will drag you to the underworld, man


    : I''d run too


    : If a burning car appeared out of nowhere, anyone would bolt


    "I''m so jealous¡­ I want an expanded bag too," Kamishiro pouted.


    "Please don''t call my shikigami an ''expanded bag.''"


    "Haha¡­ Well, it doesn''t look like we''ll have much trouble getting to the deep floors, so this should be easy."


    "These brats are gonna go all the way to the deep floors with this laid-back attitude? Did I raise them wrong?"


    No, you didn''t "raise" me at all, Grandma. You just dragged me through the lower and deep floors of dungeons while I screamed the whole way.


    "August 31st, 10:00 AM sharp¡­ We now begin the Sapporo Dungeon conquest."


    "Alright, let''s do this! Woo!"


    "...Let''s go."


    "Jeez, nobody''s joining in!?"


    : LOL


    : Is anyone here even motivated?


    : No tension at all


    : Is this really okay?


    : This could end up in history books, but¡­ Enjoy new adventures from m-v l''e|-NovelFire.net


    : Wait, what if Kisaragi''s stream ends up in history books?


    : LOL imagine the comments section getting written up too


    : Hey, future people reading this, what''s up?


    : Stop


    : I don''t want that in my history books


    : They''d probably censor it all anyway


    The comments section seems to be having fun on its own, so that''s fine.


    Still, an EX team tackling the Sapporo Dungeon¡­ Will we be over-prepared, or will we need every bit of strength we''ve got? I''m really looking forward to it. It''s the first time I''ll be heading into an unexplored deep floor¡ªthis is going to be exciting.

 Chapter 80: Silent Strikes in the Depths

    [...]


    [Say something already.]


    [...What floor are we on right now?] Read exclusive chapters at m_v-l''-NovelFire.net


    [40.]


    : Delivering the silent stream experience


    : Can''t be helped


    : This run is mainly about going beyond the 76th floor, right?


    : I heard the elite A and S ranks are handling it up to around the 60th floor


    : They''re saving their energy


    : They''re seriously here to clear this, huh


    Well, the country really is aiming to clear this dungeon for real, and they''ve brought a big group to make sure the EXs don''t get too worn out before we hit the deeper floors. But honestly, just standing around and watching the fights is starting to get boring.


    : The chat''s calming down a bit too


    : The media''s still saying a lot


    : But the media isn''t actually in the dungeon, right?


    : Are they watching Kisaragi''s stream?


    : Dunno


    : Maybe there''s someone with a camera in the A and S ranks?


    The media''s definitely trying to get their scoop on this large-scale dungeon clearance, pulling all sorts of strings. But no matter what, there''s no way reporters can get into the deeper layers. I thought it''d be fine if they used my stream footage for their broadcasts, but¡­ there are a few issues with that. Mostly, me and the chat bickering during the stream.


    Honestly, it''s not like my stream is the most proper or well-behaved. Broadcasting that live on TV would probably be a bit much.


    [So, I guess we''ll just keep going like this¡­ How about we kill time with some chat?]


    : Ah, it''s the usual


    : He''s starting again


    : Wait, isn''t this supposed to be a dungeon run?


    : Don''t worry, this is normal


    : We''re already in the lower floors though¡­


    : New viewers are probably confused as hell


    : Kisaragi, come on...


    [Wait, so no chat? I can just walk in silence while ignoring the camera, if that''s what you all want.]


    : Sorry, chat time, please


    : I''d actually like some dungeon explanation


    : Summer vacation''s ending soon, did you finish your homework?


    : Feels like the usual banter, haha


    : He''s still the same Kisaragi even with more viewers


    : Lol


    : Is that a compliment?


    : It''s definitely not


    I''m not exactly trying to be some highbrow dungeon streamer. My goal is to provide a stream that doesn''t bother anyone and is fun for everyone. So if I want to kill time with random chat while we walk, it''s not hurting anyone¡­ well, maybe the A and S rank fighters up ahead might not love it, but hey, I''m bored.


    [So, about the Sapporo Dungeon¡­ Where should I start explaining?]


    [It''s cold, and there''s a lot of golem-like enemies.]


    [Compared to Shibuya Dungeon, each floor isn''t that wide, I guess?]


    [Hey¡­ Kanna, Aizawa, don''t just randomly jump into the chat. You startled me.]


    : Surprised


    : Three EXs casually showing up on screen, lol


    : There''s no way other streamers can compete with this


    : The sheer power is overwhelming


    : Power card: "EX friends"


    : Ban this broken card


    : More EX collabs, please!


    : Make up your mind!


    : Lol


    : Even the chat''s divided on this, haha


    : Don''t worry about it, Kisaragi


    Even the chat''s freaking out with the sudden appearance of two EXs. Well, at least the regulars seem to be enjoying it, so that''s fine.


    While we kept up the random chat and walked around for a bit longer, we finally reached the 60th floor. The elite fighters leading us weren''t showing much fatigue and were keeping an eye on our surroundings. The Sapporo Dungeon, unlike the Shibuya Dungeon, doesn''t have floors with dramatically different environments.


    From the 1st floor to the deepest observed, the 76th floor, all of the floors are dimly lit ice caverns.


    The floors are smaller than those in the Shibuya Dungeon, but they''re much more maze-like and visibility is always poor. Plus, the enemies here are golem-like non-organic creatures, making them harder to detect, so ambushes are a lot more common.


    [So, from here on out, it''s our turn to take over, right?]


    [No, not yet. We''ll take over after we hit the floors past 77.]


    [Man¡­ honestly, I''m getting kinda bored.]


    [Don''t whine about it. You can handle this bit of walking.]


    [But, c''mon, it''s been all walking and no fighting up to the 60th floor¡­]


    : True, though


    : You''ve been chatting the whole time


    : Not a single fight so far


    : I wanna see an EX fight


    : I''m new here; can we get some flashy combat?


    : Didn''t the S ranks up ahead already have a pretty intense fight?


    : Yeah, they did


    : People here are getting too used to this


    : The new folks just said they''re first-timers


    [Well¡­ if it''s for the sake of the mission, I guess I can suck it up a bit.]


    [You''re so serious, Tsu-kun.]


    [Don''t call me Tsu-kun.]


    : Lol


    : Honestly, just keep going, we''re good


    : You never know what might happen


    : Weren''t you surprised by that unexpected fight in Shibuya Dungeon?


    [Oh, you mean that slime?]


    [Was that really a slime? It was basically an ocean.]


    : The ocean slime, right?


    : More like a sea monster


    : Kisaragi, summon a sea monster instead


    : Same difference


    : Lol


    : Nobody''s seen it, so nobody knows sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Exactly. Since I was the first one to discover it in the deepest part of Shibuya Dungeon, I get to name it. So it''s a slime. It had a core, and nothing worked on it except hitting the core. That''s a slime, period.


    : Looks like they''re fighting some golems


    : They''re taking their time with just three golems, huh


    : Well, it is three golems


    : Aren''t they supposed to disperse magic?


    : The bane of mages, lol


    [Hm?]


    Just as I stepped into the 60th floor while glancing at the comments, five giant golems appeared from a side passage. The elite fighters up ahead didn''t notice since they were a bit further ahead and busy fighting their own group of golems.


    The moment I noticed them, Aizawa, Kanna, and Grandma (Jinguji) did too.


    [Too slow.]


    As usual, Grandma moved first, obliterating the head of the golem in front with a single kick. Normally, these golems are a mage''s worst enemy since they can disperse magic. But Grandma''s on a different level.


    Before the remaining golems could react, Aizawa and I both moved. Aizawa sliced one in half with a sword infused with so much magic it had changed color, and I stepped over its body, cutting another one cleanly in two.


    [Take this!]


    Kanna followed up by firing a compressed beam of flame that vaporized the two unscathed golems along with the three damaged ones.


    [I see¡­ even a golem that disperses magic can''t withstand magic that''s been compressed to that degree. So that shield isn''t all-powerful after all.]


    [Well, if Aizawa reinforced it with her own magic, it probably would have deflected it.]


    [Pick up the magic stones, idiot daughter. Don''t just throw magic around and skip the cleanup.]


    [Okaaay.]


    : Are we the ones who are wrong here?


    : I blinked, and the five golems were gone


    : The elite fighters were struggling with just three


    : This is EX, huh¡­


    : This game has become too overpowered


    : I''m not laughing


    : Well, at least the new viewers are satisfied now, right? (nervous laughter)


    : They''d better be, lol


    : I can''t even laugh at this


    Don''t worry. When it comes to golems like that, we can take them down no problem.

 Chapter 81: Breaking Through the Ice

    [Should we take over soon? Fighting any deeper could result in injuries that would interfere with the exploration.]


    Once we passed the 70th floor, the elite team ahead of us began stopping more frequently. They were clearly starting to struggle with the monsters, and more and more of them were getting injured.


    Aizawa-san, noticing this, probably decided it was time to switch. Some of the elite fighters, despite being called the best, were hanging their heads in frustration, unable to push past the deepest known floors. But if a group of A and S ranks could easily clear dungeons, all the dungeons in the world would''ve been cleared to their last floor by now. Explore more adventures at m,v l''-NovelFire.net


    [Good work, everyone.]


    [Finally our turn?]


    [¡­Please take this seriously, okay?]


    : Says the guy who should talk


    : Lol


    : Is this how the viewers treat him?


    : In a way, they trust him


    : From serious elite strategy to the shenanigans of 4 EXs


    : Shenanigans, lol


    : The mood sure changed fast


    [We''ll aim for the 76th floor for now. But considering how tough the monster encounters have been, the backup team should stay at the 59th floor.]


    [That''s reasonable. If you''re not strong enough, there''s no point in recklessly heading into the deeper levels.]


    : Harsh but fair


    : True


    : As long as no one dies, it''s fine


    : Deep floors are scary, man


    : This is my first time watching a deep floor stream


    : Even TV''s been covering the deep floor expedition


    Oh, they''re still broadcasting it live on TV. I guess the Sapporo Dungeon clearance is that important to the public. Or maybe it''s more about showing off the results to other countries. Either way, doesn''t really matter to me.


    [I''ll take over the camera from here on.]


    [Huh?]


    Aizawa-san? Is she planning to shoot proper footage for the live broadcast? Or maybe it''s for keeping official records for the Explorer''s Guild or something like that?


    [It''s from the association and the government. Apparently, the TV networks will be using this footage for the live broadcast. Well¡­ if Kisaragi-kun hadn''t asked if he could stream, maybe this wouldn''t have happened.]


    : Oh, I see


    : Nice one, Kisaragi


    : But I''m more interested in the laid-back deep floor exploration than some serious TV broadcast


    : Laid-back (in a dangerous zone)


    : It''s not just dangerous, it''s unexplored territory


    : At this point, it''s basically space exploration


    : This is too dangerous, lol


    "Space exploration" is pushing it. Dungeons have been cleared around the world, so it''s not that extreme.


    [Whatever, let''s hurry up! I''m starting to have fun!]


    [Don''t rush ahead, you idiot.]


    [Aww¡­]


    While I was helping Aizawa-san set up the camera, Kanna-san had already started walking off, and Grandma (Jinguji) was casually following behind her. And despite Aizawa-san warning against rushing earlier, she didn''t seem too concerned either.


    : This is the floor the elites struggled with, huh?


    : EX, man¡­


    : This is why EXs are just different


    : How many times have we seen this line?


    : Even past the 70th floor, they''re still so relaxed?


    : If this was my first Kisaragi stream, I''d have no idea what was going on


    : Do you even know what''s going on now?


    : Not at all, lol


    The path to the 76th floor has already been mapped out, and this is a non-shifting dungeon, so we''ll get there without much trouble. Beyond that, though, we''ll be exploring on the fly, looking for the stairs.


    [Oh, a monster!]


    When Kanna-san shouted, Aizawa-san and I looked over, only to see a black crystal golem being shattered by Grandma''s lightning-fast attack.


    : The golem''s head shattered before I even saw it


    : Kisaragi didn''t even notice lol


    : I was watching, but I didn''t see anything either


    : It looked like the golem just exploded on its own


    : So Jinguji Kaede really is the strongest, huh


    : Even at her age, still the strongest (confused)


    If it''s just one golem, it''s over before Aizawa-san and I even turn our heads. No problem with that, so I go back to helping Aizawa-san set up the camera.


    : Just completely ignoring it, lol


    : He barely looked, haha


    : This is probably just another day for an EX


    : Lol


    : It''s not funny that this is normal


    Well, one or two golems aren''t dangerous enough to be a big deal for someone at our level. If we weren''t capable of crushing deep floor monsters like that, we wouldn''t be EXs. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Alright, this should be working now.]


    [Looks good. Shall we move on?]


    [Sure¡­ although two people seem to be moving on ahead.]


    [Don''t worry about it. That''s just how Grandma and Kanna are.]


    Grandma''s always been one to go her own way. She''s famous for just showing up in dungeons whenever she feels like it and bulldozing through the monsters. Despite that, she''s made such a huge impact as Japan''s strongest explorer that her reputation overseas is overwhelming.


    : The international viewers are going nuts about Jinguji Kaede


    : Obsessed fans, lol


    : She''s basically like those crazy otaku


    : Apparently, the Chinese are terrified of her


    : Can''t blame them


    : She''s basically a turbo granny, lol


    : Turbo granny but faster


    Well, Turbo Granny probably couldn''t break the sound barrier. But if there really was a monster like that, it''d be terrifying.


    : If Kisaragi''s shikigami are based on his imagination, does that mean if he imagines Turbo Granny¡­ he summons Jinguji Kaede?


    : Don''t summon people, that''s not allowed


    : Don''t try to make another EX


    : What if he actually summoned Jinguji Kaede instead of Turbo Granny?


    It''s really hard to recreate living humans using shikigami techniques. The Twelve Heavenly Generals are special because they''re tied to something else, but creating people with ordinary shikigami techniques is practically impossible.


    In short, no, it''s not happening.


    [Alright, the stream''s set up. Let''s get serious about exploring the dungeon now.]


    [Wait, so you weren''t being serious before?]


    [That''s not it. I was just letting others handle things up till now.]


    Ah¡­ for a second, I thought she was admitting that EXs never take dungeons seriously. Well, we''re not exactly going in with maximum tension either, but we''re not slacking off.


    In any case, now that it''s our turn, we''ve got to get serious. Whatever the government''s goals might be, my personal desire to explore deeper is what drives me forward.

 Chapter 82: The 77th Floor Challenge

    [We''ve arrived!]


    [So, this is the staircase that leads to the 77th floor.]


    I don''t know who it was that mapped out Sapporo Dungeon up to the 76th floor, but apparently, they reached this staircase leading to the 77th floor and then turned back. Maybe they ran out of supplies or their magic reserves were low¡ªthere could be a lot of reasons.


    In any case, everything beyond the 77th floor is truly unexplored. From the deeper levels up until this 76th floor, the number of monsters we''ve encountered has increased, but I didn''t notice much difference in the strength of the golems.


    When there are fewer of them, Grandma finishes them off instantly with a kick, and when there are more, Kanna fires magic that pierces through even the armor that scatters magic energy.


    The dungeon environment hasn''t changed significantly either. It''s still the same dimly lit cave with glowing crystals jutting out of the walls. I expected this to feel like a cold, northern dungeon in Hokkaido, but it hasn''t gotten anywhere near that feeling. The temperature is around 20¡ãC.


    [It''s been a while since we did a full deep-dive exploration.]


    [Aizawa, you sound like you''re having fun.]


    [Of course! I became an explorer because I actually enjoy dungeon crawling.]


    : That''s cute


    : Would be cuter if it wasn''t the deep floors


    : This cute banter is airing on live TV, you know


    Stay tuned to m-v l|-NovelFire.net


    : LOL


    : Well, it''s the usual


    : Not like they care much


    [Grandma''s more fired up than usual, and Kanna hasn''t gotten bored and wandered off yet, so I guess bringing four EXs together was the right move.]


    Honestly, more than just the firepower, it''s exciting to explore a dungeon with so many EXs. Sure, I''m looking forward to exploring the unknown floors, but more than that, it''s fun to mess around with everyone.


    : So Kisaragi has comrades, even if he doesn''t have friends


    : No friends though, LOL


    : They just casually pointed out he has no friends, lmao


    : It''s true though


    : Yeah, but still


    : Poor guy, lol


    The "no friends" teasing doesn''t bother me. I have an actual friend, Asakawa, so I''m different from you guys.


    When we reached the bottom of the stairs, the scenery didn''t change¡ªit was still just the cave. But from here on, we''re in completely unmapped territory. We''ll have to figure out which path to take as we go.


    [I''ll handle the mapping.]


    [Thanks for that.]


    [I''m charging ahead!]


    [Uh, Kanna, don''t just rush ahead when we don''t know where we''re going, okay?]


    Does she even know what "mapping" means? I''m not trying to map out the whole floor; I just want to find the proper path to the lower levels. Sure, mapping the entire area could eventually lead us to the shortest route, but Kanna''s "rush ahead" approach is pure intuition. Completely unreliable.


    [Alright, let''s go! First, straight ahead!]


    [Well, fine... ''Taijo'']


    : Oh?


    : New shikigami!


    : Hot guy alert!


    : Kisaragi just summoned a hot guy


    : Explode, you hot guy! (triggered)


    [...More paperwork, Master?]


    [Nope, I need you to map this out.]


    [Sigh¡­ understood.]


    Taijo, a tall, silver-haired hottie, is a benevolent god and a civil official serving the Emperor of Heaven. His appearance is mostly a product of my imagination, so he''s a tall, refined guy with narrow eyes¡ªa perfect, competent official. Even though I designed him, I''m kind of envious, so I secretly want him to explode.


    As a shikigami, Taijo is good at support-type magic, unlike Kijin. I mostly summon him for annoying paperwork, so summoning him in a dungeon is rare. This time, I called him to help with mapping.


    : Poor guy gets all the boring tasks


    : Kisaragi is such a terrible boss, lol


    : Using your shikigami like that, lol


    : Wait, I want a shikigami to do my taxes too


    : Does Kisaragi have his taxes done by Taijo?


    : He probably does, right?


    [...Another fork in the road?]


    [Lots of them¡­ Well, even with a map, there have been this many splits along the way.]


    It''s annoying because it''ll take forever if we check every path, but I guess that''s just how this complex dungeon is designed. At least it''s not a maze like the Alice Springs Dungeon.


    I thought we''d go with a standard formation¡ªAizawa in the front, Kanna in the back, and me and Grandma in the middle. But in reality, Kanna and Grandma are just rushing ahead, and Aizawa and I are left trailing behind, marking the map. Those two clearly have no sense of their preferred fighting distance.


    Any golems that pop up in front are swiftly dealt with by Grandma, and Aizawa handles anything sneaking up from behind. Meanwhile, I''m just walking along, looking at Taijo''s map and thinking.


    [We''re back in the same spot.]


    [Yeah, we are.]


    We''ve been leaving markers on the ground to differentiate paths, but somehow we looped back around.


    : So if you go straight, turn right, you end up back here?


    : What if you go left?


    : Probably straight and left from the start


    : Watch, we took the wrong route from the beginning


    [Until we find the right path, we''ll just have to keep moving forward.]


    [Why don''t we just destroy the floor or something?] S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [If we do that, we won''t know how to get through next time.]


    [Also, no, we''re not breaking the dungeon, okay? It''s not about getting lost¡ªit''s just not a good idea.]


    Well, dungeons do repair themselves, so it''s faster to break through if we get lost, but¡­ it''s probably not a great idea.


    : He''s definitely considering it, though


    : Don''t make that face, Kisaragi, lol


    : Breaking the dungeon is definitely not okay


    : Who knows what would happen if you destroyed a dungeon floor?


    : What if the Sapporo Dungeon collapses because of it?


    Right¡­ The Sapporo Dungeon is under the city. If we recklessly destroy parts of it and affect the surface, it could be a disaster. Dungeons are powered by magic or something, so even though they go deep, we''re not necessarily near the Earth''s core. But who''s to say there won''t be consequences for the surface? Better not take that risk.

 Chapter 83: The Crystal Knights Test

    [What... is this place?]


    While I had Taijo record the map, we continued walking through the dungeon, and after descending the staircase from the 79th to the 80th floor, we arrived at a vast, open space. The ceiling was quite high, and it was a huge contrast to the narrow caves we had been walking through so far.


    [Can you see the stairs on the other side?]


    [...Yeah, they''re there.]


    [If there are stairs, then this probably isn''t the final floor.]


    : That surprised me.


    : Imagine if it was the final floor after just four more levels from 76.


    : It''s not impossible, though.


    : Didn''t something like that happen overseas?


    : Yeah, there was a story where the floor right below the highest reached floor turned out to be the final one.


    You can''t know where the final floor of a dungeon is until you reach it. So even if the final floor is just one level down, you won''t know unless you go and check. Though, in the deeper floors, going down even one level can be a life-or-death situation, so it''s not something to take lightly.


    Still, the glowing minerals sticking out of the ground remain the same. The vastness of the space reminds me of the 75th floor of the Shibuya Dungeon. That area also had a huge open space¡­ and a powerful monster.


    [Oh.]


    [Huh?]


    Responding to Kanna''s exclamation, I looked ahead and saw what appeared to be a knight statue, its entire body made of crystal. No, it wasn''t a statue¡ªit was a monster. Most likely a golem-type creature, similar to the others that scatter magic. It wasn''t that big, standing about three meters tall, but in the deep floors, the smaller monsters are often the more troublesome ones.


    : That''s cool!


    : It''s got a lot of style.


    : A crystal knight? That''s super badass.


    : Looks strong.


    : Wonder if it moves.


    [It''s our first time seeing this type of monster, so maybe we should observe¡ª]


    [Strike first!]


    [Of course.]


    Yeah... it was probably a waste of time expecting Kanna and Grandma to be rational. Kanna will attack anything that makes eye contact, and Grandma always goes all out from the start once she identifies something as an enemy.


    Despite Kanna starting her attack first, Grandma reached the knight first and delivered a kick to its face as usual. But unlike the other golems, this one didn''t even flinch from Grandma''s kick. Kanna followed up with a beam of compressed flames, but the knight casually blocked it with its shield.


    [Finally, something that''s worth fighting.]


    [Hmm¡­ should I turn up the heat a bit more?]


    [I''ll take the front lines. Kisaragi, back me up.]


    [Got it.]


    : Is this the first real challenge for the EXs?


    : Finally, some serious action.


    : I''m getting nervous, too.


    : If these four can''t clear this dungeon, it''s never getting done.


    : That''s a bit much, lol.


    : Maybe for a few hundred years, though.


    : Fair point.


    Since the knight scatters magic, Kanna''s spells likely won''t be enough to break through. That leaves us with physical attacks... but if Grandma''s kick didn''t work, we''re in trouble.


    [Taijo, support Aizawa.]


    [Understood.]


    [Kijin!]


    [Finally, my turn!]


    You''re too loud.


    : Oh no, here we go


    : Lol


    : At first, viewers thought she was just a pretty girl, but now¡­ Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : She brought this on herself.


    : This shikigami has way too much personality, lol.


    : As a first-time viewer, she still just looks like a beautiful woman to me, though?


    : Give it time. You''ll see.


    The crystal knight began swinging its sword at Aizawa, who had closed in. It wasn''t particularly fast, but judging by the cracks it left in the ground with each strike, it packed a punch. Still, I wasn''t too worried since Aizawa excels at close combat with a sword and shield, so I stayed focused on providing backup from behind.


    Meanwhile, Grandma kept darting in, landing quick kicks on the knight. Even though it didn''t look like her strikes were doing much, she wouldn''t keep doing it if she didn''t sense something.


    [Uh, what are you doing?]


    [Oh? I''m prepping a spell.]


    : What the heck?


    : What is that?


    : Is she making a mini sun?


    : Why is she conjuring the sun in her hands?!


    : This woman is terrifying.


    I felt the temperature rising and turned around to see Kanna raising her hands, and in them, a large ball of fire, roughly the size of a basketball. When I asked what she was doing, she casually said she was casting a spell, but even as we spoke, the fireball kept growing larger.


    [Yeah, I thought the last attack didn''t pack enough punch, so I''m boosting it.]


    [...Kijin, help control that fire.]


    [Once again with this woman... How many times will she burden you, Master?]


    You''re not one to talk, Kijin.


    : What''s he even saying?


    : You too, Kijin!


    : Gotta love the Twelve Heavenly Generals¡­ even their boomerangs hit perfectly.


    [Aizawa, you might want to watch your back. Kanna''s about to go wild with another reckless spell.]


    [Uh¡­ why do I need to watch out for my allies while exploring the deep floors?]


    [It can''t be helped. Both Kanna and Master are terribly carefree.]


    [True, but still¡­]


    Oi, Taijo. You''re my shikigami, so I can hear your thoughts no matter where you are. Don''t badmouth me in front of the viewers, or they''ll start giving me grief too.


    [Here we go!]


    Kanna''s fireball, which had grown to several meters in diameter, was suddenly compressed down to the size of a baseball. It was so condensed that it seemed to tremble, with white light leaking from it. Can you even throw something like that safely? Unfazed by my concerns, Kanna launched the compressed fireball at the crystal knight with Kijin''s help.


    [Whoa!] Find more chapters on m_v l|e-NovelFire.net


    [Gouchen!]


    Realizing it was about to cause massive destruction, I quickly summoned Gouchen to protect everyone with a barrier. At the same time, Kanna''s fireball slammed into the knight''s shield and exploded.


    As a result, Kanna''s compressed flame magic scorched the entire 80th floor of Sapporo Dungeon in an instant.

 Chapter 84: The Awakening of the Lizard King

    [...What a Natural disaster.]


    The words just slipped out of my mouth as a bit of an insult. But honestly, can you blame me this time? Kanna had really outdone herself with that attack.


    : Brutal


    : Not human


    : Can people even cast magic like this?


    : This isn''t the kind of magic I know.


    : Wait, if one person can do this, that''s insane.


    : And there are three more like her here¡­


    I have a lot to say about Kanna''s reckless behavior¡ªlike how she almost hit her own allies¡ªbut for now, I need to deal with the crystal knight that''s still coming toward us, albeit barely. After taking the full brunt of Kanna''s compressed fire spell, the knight''s left arm had completely melted, and its body was deformed, but somehow, it was still walking.


    Though it was just barely standing, it clearly had no fight left.


    : How is it still alive after that?


    : This is what makes the uncharted depths so terrifying.


    : The deep floors really are something else.


    : It''s exciting to watch, but if I ran into something like that, I''d get chills.


    : No wonder dungeon exploration hasn''t progressed much.


    Aizawa took a step forward and finished off the battered crystal knight with a swift slash. That''s it for the 80th floor. I''m not sure how often monsters like this respawn, but floors with big, open spaces and strong monsters usually don''t have others spawning. If the interval is long enough, this might even be a good resting spot... though that''s still uncertain.


    [Alright, that''s done.]


    [That was quick!]


    [You should at least show some remorse for your actions.]


    [S-Sorry...]


    : Kisaragi always gets her to back down, lol.


    : At least she knows she went overboard.


    : She''s aware, huh?


    : If she wasn''t, I''d question her humanity.


    : Isn''t she already pushing it as a human?


    : She almost collapsed the dungeon, after all.


    : Her power is already beyond human anyway.


    : True, none of them are exactly "normal."


    [So, should we keep going, or take a break? I don''t know the respawn intervals for monsters like that.]


    [Let''s keep moving. Running into that thing again on the way back would be a pain.]


    [Agreed. We can figure out the spawn intervals when we need to.]


    Well, the goal this time is to reach the bottom floor of the Sapporo Dungeon, not to explore every nook and cranny. So, the sooner we reach the bottom, the better. With three votes in favor of moving forward, it''s decided. Kanna''s vote doesn''t count right now, so it''s unanimous.


    We proceed down the staircase to the 81st floor, which opened into yet another vast, open space.


    [Ah...]


    [...Yeah.]


    : Someone say something.


    : Didn''t we just see this? S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Are we stuck in a loop?


    : We definitely went down the stairs, right?


    : It''s not exactly the same, but it''s close.


    The main difference on the 81st floor was that it was brightly lit. In the distance, a large crystal, glowing as brightly as an LED light, was embedded in the ground, illuminating the entire space. The room was larger than the last one, with a much higher ceiling. The top of the chamber was so far away it seemed to blur into the darkness.


    [I don''t see any stairs.]


    [Is this the final floor?]


    [Maybe¡­ but we won''t know until we check behind that big crystal.]


    [Be careful. I can feel a killing intent.]


    I could sense it too. The moment we stepped into the 81st floor, a heavy aura of hostility washed over us. There were no monsters in sight yet, but something out there had definitely locked onto us.


    I summoned Gouchen and set up a barrier around the party as we moved forward. In a place like this, we could get attacked from anywhere at any time. As I was thinking that, the massive crystal in front of us started to move. It wasn''t a huge surprise¡ªthese kinds of things happen in dungeon exploration games¡ªbut I wasn''t expecting the crystal itself to be a monster.


    [...Is that a dragon?]


    [Looks more like a lizard.]


    [Is there really a difference?]


    The massive crystal had legs and a tail, looking more like a lizard than a dragon. It was at least ten meters long from head to tail, and the crystal on its back was blindingly bright.


    : Is it a lizard?


    : I don''t know if I''d call that a dragon¡­


    : It doesn''t have horns, so it''s just a lizard.


    : Yeah.


    : Way too big, though.


    It slowly exhaled, walking toward us with clear malice, clearly contemplating how to attack.


    [Quit dragging your feet!]


    Grandma, as usual, wasn''t going to wait for it to make the first move. She shot forward at lightning speed, aiming a ball of compressed magic at the lizard''s jaw, likely remembering how hard the crystal knight had been.


    [''Great Centipede.'']


    Taking that as a cue, I summoned my Great Centipede to charge at the lizard. At the same time, Aizawa rushed in with her shield raised, and Kanna sent a bolt of lightning from her fingertips.


    The lizard shrugged off Grandma''s magic blast, pinned the Great Centipede with its front legs, biting off its head, and spat shards of crystal at Aizawa to keep her at bay. It didn''t even bother defending against Kanna''s lightning attack. Read exclusive adventures at m_v-l''-NovelFire.net


    As expected of a monster from the deepest floors, this one wasn''t going down easily. Looks like I''ll need to get serious too. No time to glance at the stream comments now. I turned off my watch and focused on the fight.


    [It''s too tough¡­ Should I use another big spell?]


    [I don''t think that''s enough to kill this thing.]


    While Kanna and I debated what to do, Aizawa reinforced her sword with magic and slashed at the lizard''s crystalline body, but it barely left a scratch.


    [What an annoying lizard.]


    While I was thinking about our next move, Grandma thrust her arms forward. I wasn''t sure what she was planning, but the crystals growing from the cave walls began breaking off, gathering in front of her to form a large cluster.


    [You''d better dodge!]


    [I''m on it!]


    Grandma strengthened the cluster of crystals with her own magic and then hurled it at the crystal lizard. As the barrage of crystal shards rained down, each one hitting with enough force to crater the ground, Aizawa didn''t back off. She closed the distance, thrusting her sword forward.


    Even a simple thrust wouldn''t damage the lizard, but the compressed magical blade at the tip of her sword pierced through the lizard''s crystal armor and into its side.


    Man¡­ the two of them are really pulling off some crazy moves.

 Chapter 85: Final Blow

    With Aizawa''s strike, the battle was pretty much over. Gouchen wasn''t needed anymore, and now it was just a matter of delivering the final blow.


    [It''s bleeding from inside the crystal?]


    [So it''s not a crystal lizard; it''s a lizard covered in crystal.]


    [That means we just need to aim for that weak spot in the side!]


    The lizard, now with a hole in its armor, would obviously try to protect its weak point. But with four of us attacking, it was only a matter of time before we won.


    [White Tiger.]


    My fastest shikigami, Byakko, wouldn''t get in Grandma or Kanna''s way. As soon as it was summoned, it used its magic to coat its body in steel. Byakko''s sharp claws were covered with new, reinforced steel, and its entire body was encased in armor, giving it the appearance of some kind of mechanical beast. It reminds me of the robotic animals you see in anime.


    Grandma dashed forward at blinding speed, breaking the ground as she moved, and Byakko matched her, charging toward the same target: the lizard''s exposed side.


    [What!? My magic bounced off!]


    [Seiryu.]


    Sensing danger, the lizard curled up to protect its vulnerable side and began rolling, trying to crush Aizawa. It was already massive, and the crystal it was covered in deflected magic, making it even more of a hassle. It easily shrugged off Kanna''s wind spell. Breaking through that kind of armor meant relying on Aizawa to handle the job. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Well, my role here is support. As long as the other three handle the firepower, I can just focus on making things easier for them.


    Seiryu, like Byakko, is one of the Four Guardian Beasts. Seiryu, the Azure Dragon, is a green dragon that guards the east and controls wood in the Five Elements theory. Its magic, as you''d expect, involves manipulating trees.


    [Watch your feet. I''m going to grow some trees.]


    The best way I could think of to stop the rolling lizard was to create massive trees using Seiryu''s power. As the lizard crashed into them, the trees, strengthened by Seiryu''s magic, began to slow its rotation, roots extending in all directions to bind its limbs and pull it to a stop.


    [The side is exposed!]


    [Byakko!]


    [Now it''s an easier target.]


    Grandma was the first to react, firing an explosive magic shot directly into the exposed side. I have no idea how she manages to get that much power out of a magic shot with no elemental attributes, but pieces of the lizard''s flesh flew everywhere.


    As Grandma pulled back, Byakko leaped forward, driving its claws into the lizard''s body. For good measure, Aizawa sent another magical blade that shattered the lizard''s head, and Kanna''s incomprehensible lightning spell burned its flesh through the gaps in the shattered crystal.


    : That''s overkill.


    : Poor thing.


    : It put up a decent fight, though.


    : Is this seriously the final boss of the dungeon?


    : Shouldn''t Japan be clearing dungeons nationwide already?


    : Agreed.


    : Are there any obstacles to that?


    : It''s probably all about politics and vested interests.


    Checking the comments again after switching my watch back on, I saw a flood of foreign language messages zooming by, but the regulars were taking things much more casually.


    [Aah! Tsu-kun is getting distracted!]


    [Well, it''s over, isn''t it?]


    [Just because it''s over doesn''t mean you should be glued to your phone, kid. You''re just like those young people addicted to their phones.]


    Shut up, Grandma. Sure, modern people check their phones at every chance they get, but people were complaining about "youth and their phones" back in your day too. Clearly, it''s a problem that''s never going away.


    Besides, my role in this fight was purely support. I should be allowed to check my phone for a bit, right?


    : Are you reading the chat, Kisaragi?


    : Yaaay!


    : He looks so annoyed, lol.


    : Who''s the extrovert that said "yaaay" like that?


    : Are there even any extroverts here?


    : If there are, kick them out! This is an introvert community!


    : So toxic it hurts, lol.


    [What do you think the media is doing up there right now?]


    [They''re probably having a field day. I thought this dungeon would have 100 floors, though... it ended at the 81st floor. Kinda disappointing!]


    [It was just an estimate, after all.]


    [Quit fooling around and figure out what to do with this corpse!]


    Oh, right. I''ve only seen one other final boss monster¡ªlike the crab in Takayama Dungeon¡ªand even though this crystal lizard is definitely dead, its body isn''t disappearing. Not all final boss monsters leave behind a corpse, as I''ve heard that some disappear even in overseas dungeons.


    [Wow... the purity of this crystal is amazing. I could probably make a new shield out of it.]


    [Another shield? Aizawa, you really like shields, huh?]


    [Do I? But it''s the most reliable form of defense in dungeon exploration, you know?]


    [I''ll just stick with magic barriers for defense.]


    [Uh... we''re not going to be able to take all of this crystal, are we?]


    [Don''t be ridiculous... though, yeah, we can''t carry it all.]


    [I think we should just take the crystal and leave the rest.]


    : Ah, the Sapporo Dungeon''s been fully cleared.


    Stay tuned with m-v l|-NovelFire.net


    : EXs are terrifying.


    : Can''t we get some new EXs soon?


    : If anyone thinks they can become an EX after seeing this, I question their sanity.


    : Even if more EXs popped up, wouldn''t that be a problem?


    : Honestly, EXs seem like bugs in the system.


    : Aizawa''s attacks were the most "normal" ones.


    : "Normal" (piercing super-hard crystal).


    : What does "normal" even mean anymore?


    : Someone who does shockwave thrusts isn''t "normal."


    : It''s already all over the news, lol.


    : Breaking news everywhere.


    : They''re making such a big deal about it overseas. Tomorrow will be wall-to-wall coverage of the Sapporo Dungeon clearance.


    : There''s so much footage too.


    It seems things are getting pretty wild outside. With my and Aizawa''s stream, the Guild should already know the dungeon''s been cleared. But even if they do, none of the elite forces can meet us here on the 80th floor, so we''ll have to gather up the crystals and make our way out on our own.


    What a hassle... I wish there was some kind of elevator that went straight down to the bottom. But since the dungeon repairs itself, that''s impossible. Heading back up is always the most annoying part of dungeon exploration.

 Chapter 86: Thread 11: Kisaragi Tsukasas Triumph

    1: Anonymous Explorer


    Thread to discuss UNKNOWN (Real name: Kisaragi Tsukasa), an EX-rank explorer.


    Feel free to talk about both his dungeon explorations and the streams on Kisaragi Tsukasa''s channel.


    Previous thread:


    [EX-rank Explorer] UNKNOWN Part 144 [Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Social media accounts


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Next thread should be created by whoever hits post 950.


    If you can''t manage it, let someone else know early.


    The previous thread filled up fast, so I made this one.


    With how fast these threads are moving, maybe the person at 900 should start the new thread.


    2: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks.


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Appreciate it.


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks. Things have calmed down a bit after the stream, so 950 should be fine.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe switch to 900 during streams?


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really necessary? The thread only blew up because all the EXs were gathered to clear the Sapporo Dungeon''s final floor, right?


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    Who knows? This thread can speed up at random times.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    950 seems fine for now.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it because the media acts like trash that they''re treated as such?


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s how it always is.


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    Felt worse than usual this time. Who bombards explorers with questions right after they finish exploring the deep layers?


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    They watched the same stream we did, right? The one where these guys showed inhuman strength. Honestly, I kind of respect the nerve of people who can still be that rude.


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾9


    They''re trash for a reason. It''d be great if they went extinct already.


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread''s blowing up too. Kisaragi''s completely taken over as the top dungeon streamer. With this stream, his subscribers easily passed one million, and they''re still skyrocketing.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾14


    He''s getting a lot of international subscribers. He''ll probably hit ten million in no time, especially since he doesn''t cater just to a Japanese audience.


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    Not catering just to Japan (but only speaks Japanese).


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, even we don''t always understand what Kisaragi is saying, so it''s fine.


    18: Anonymous Explorer


    People are hyping him up, but didn''t he just watch from the sidelines this time? Wasn''t he pretty useless? We didn''t need the weakest EX for this.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m satisfied just watching deep-floor streams. Sometimes I watch international ones too. I can''t understand the language, so I''m never sure if it''s upper or mid-floor, but it''s fun.


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾18


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel Anti-Thread Part 53


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t the Sapporo Dungeon really dark and creepy? The EXs looked fine, though.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m just happy I got to watch Jinguji Kaede fight live. Thanks, Kisaragi.


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    This might be the first time we''ve seen Jinguji Kaede''s battles in a stream. She''s never cared about that kind of stuff before.


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    Who said EX Salaryman was the "normal" one of the group? That was a lie. He''s a monster just like the others.


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾24


    He''s an EX, of course he''s not normal.


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    The Sapporo Dungeon thread is in chaos right now.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾26


    Well, it just got cleared.


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi didn''t do anything useful. Useless trash. LOL. Just quit being an EX and stop streaming. LOL.


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾28


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel Anti-Thread Part 53


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾28


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel Anti-Thread Part 53


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾29


    £¾£¾30


    Lol, you two are like best friends.


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like we''ve got some weirdos here.


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾32 S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yeah, they''re a fusion of trolls, EX haters, and weirdos. Just ignore them. They can''t even type properly.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾33


    Best not to poke the trolls.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe just ban them?


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi summoning dragons was seriously cool.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    That was Seiryu, not a dragon.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾37


    Whatever, same thing lol.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, I get that it''s not the same, but it''s not really a big deal either.


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    It was hilarious when he summoned that handsome guy. Guess he can imagine someone better-looking than himself.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Give him a break, lol.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    Come on, even otakus can imagine beautiful 2D girls, so of course he can. You all fantasize about cute girls even though your own faces are wrecked.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Wow, way to start a fight.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾42


    You''re no different, lol.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    Why are missiles flying around this thread?


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s because Kisaragi''s like a tactical nuke himself. (Random)


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    Since he cleared the Sapporo Dungeon, I guess he''ll take a break from streaming for a bit. EX explorers probably have a lot of other work to do.


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    After seeing this, it feels like EXs should be used more for dungeon clearances rather than other jobs.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    Why don''t they have them clear more dungeons?


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no real benefit to clearing them. It''s a pain because of all the politics involved.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, even if they clear the bottom floors, the only thing they gain is fame. The money from magic stones ends up in politicians'' pockets whether or not the dungeon is cleared. So the government-affiliated Explorers Association has no real reason to clear dungeons.


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    Corruption at its finest.


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾52


    This has been going on for a while though, hasn''t it?


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    They probably see EX explorers as just pawns in their game. They assign them to various problems while they sit back and rake in the money.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, they think they can control something as dangerous as an EX like it''s just a tool? Are they idiots?


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    If an EX bites back, it''s not just a simple problem. The whole country could disappear with that level of power.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    If the politicians had any brains, they wouldn''t be the symbol of incompetence that they are.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi is the real incompetent one. LOL. He relies on his shikigami for everything, a total fraud. Just quit streaming already. LOL.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    Ban: £¾£¾58


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾59


    Thanks, mod.


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, that was getting annoying.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾59


    Nice job, mod.


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    How many of the Twelve Heavenly Generals has Kisaragi summoned? I only remember Kijin and Byakko.


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t even know much about the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    Who understands all that Buddhist stuff? I''m just watching Kisaragi''s streams for the vibes.


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾65


    If you''ve watched his streams, you should at least know which shikigami he''s summoning, right?


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾63


    Kijin: Black-haired, beautiful but slightly unfortunate woman, Kisaragi''s annoying fan, seems to be a versatile support-type shikigami.


    Byakko: White tiger that uses iron-manipulating magic, very fast.


    Kouchin: Can''t see it, but it''s supposedly there. Specializes in barriers.


    Seiryu: Green dragon, uses wood-based magic.


    Taijou: White-haired, narrow-eyed handsome guy, support role.


    Tenkuu: Silver-haired beauty, uses weather-control magic.


    That''s what I remember so far. I missed a few streams though, so if I forgot any, feel free to add them.


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾67


    Thanks for the detailed summary!


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Wow, didn''t realize he''d summoned that many already.


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    I might not remember who''s who, but I do recall that Kijin and Tenkuu are both beautiful.


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m jealous of Taijou. He''s too handsome. But having him do your paperwork sounds pretty great. Continue your adventure with m|v-l''e -NovelFire.net


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish Taijou would handle my taxes too.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop trying to shove all your paperwork onto a shikigami.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    I should learn shikigami magic too, then summon one to do my taxes. Honestly, tax documents are the real enemy for dungeon explorers.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾74


    I feel that on a spiritual level.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to pet Byakko. Can it talk? I''d love if it spoke human language.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    It''d be terrifying if a tiger suddenly started talking. Though if Kisaragi imagines it, maybe it could happen.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾77


    What? Talking animals are the dream. If that fluffy, handsome Byakko started talking, I''d lose my mind.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this person a serious furry?


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    This thread is getting wild with strange fetishes. LOL.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    So the ones left are Touda, Suzaku, Rokkoku, Tenko, Taiin, and Genbu, right?


    We''ve seen half of them now. Should we say Kisaragi''s revealed half his cards, or does he still have plenty left up his sleeve?


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    He can summon gods, so his hand is basically limitless. He''s strong enough to instantly kill anything from Shibuya Dungeon''s 80th floor and beyond.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    If he didn''t care about collateral damage, he could''ve probably one-shot the final boss of the Sapporo Dungeon by summoning a god.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    He might be avoiding that because summoning gods has some unknown consequences. Didn''t he say he was totally exhausted the last time he summoned one?


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    Only people who know shikigami magic would understand that.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    Has anyone besides Kisaragi actually used shikigami magic?


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    Nope, never seen anyone else.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    If anyone else knew how, we''d definitely be talking about them.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    I know someone who can use it.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    Shikigami magic users are just urban legends, right?


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾89


    £¾£¾90


    Wait, they exist!?


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾89


    Are you serious?


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    For real. They''re not as strong as Kisaragi, but they can use shikigami magic.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    No way. I thought Kisaragi just made that up. Guess it''s real.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ll expel you from the academic community for spreading nonsense.


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, shikigami magic is actually a secret technique passed down through a single lineage. No idea how Kisaragi got his hands on it though.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    Didn''t Kisaragi say he found it in a book given to him by Jinguji Kaede?


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾97


    LOL


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾97


    Seriously?


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾97


    That''s such a careless way to pass down a secret technique.


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    Is that really okay for a secret art passed down through generations?


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    So Kisaragi is now a rare case of passing down a one-person technique through a completely different method. Kisaragi, please take good care of that book from Jinguji Kaede. Don''t accidentally recycle it or sell it to a secondhand store.


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾102


    I can totally imagine him accidentally throwing it away. He better not, right? Right?


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    Is he really going to be okay? LOL.


    105: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to believe he''ll be fine, but it''s Kisaragi, so I''m not sure...


    106: Anonymous Explorer


    [Image]


    107: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, what''s this?


    108: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this some kind of hunter''s trophy or something?


    109: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾108


    LOL


    110: Anonymous Explorer


    "We successfully cleared the Sapporo Dungeon by defeating the Giant Crystal Lizard. Here''s the loot we got: crystal from the lizard. Apparently, its purity is way higher than the golems we''ve seen in this dungeon, so Aizawa-san was really happy. Seems like she''s planning to upgrade her shield again."


    111: Anonymous Explorer


    Salaryman LOL.


    112: Anonymous Explorer


    Salaryman''s loving it.


    113: Anonymous Explorer


    Since I''ve been watching Kisaragi''s streams from the start, it''s hilarious seeing the general public lose their minds now. Makes me feel like an OG.


    114: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾113


    Classic forum behavior, always flexing on the mainstream.


    115: Anonymous Explorer


    Us NEETs, watching from the sidelines as usual.

 Chapter 87: Thread 12: he Aftermath and Reactions

    320: Anonymous Explorer


    The End


    321: Anonymous Explorer


    That was quick.


    322: Anonymous Explorer


    Did it really end in a single day? LOL.


    323: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t there a dungeon streamer from Sapporo who was all like, "I''m going to conquer the Sapporo Dungeon someday!" How did that turn out?


    324: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾323


    Yeah, they got completely steamrolled by a random group of four sent by the government.


    325: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL. Is this the modern-day Ezo Conquest?


    326: Anonymous Explorer


    A group dispatched from the Imperial Court (the government) to subdue the Ezo (the unexplored dungeon). It really is the Ezo Conquest. So that makes Kisaragi the Shogun of the expedition.


    327: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s like Sakanoue no Tamuramaro.


    328: Anonymous Explorer


    Are we having a history lesson now?


    329: Anonymous Explorer


    But isn''t the salaryman more like the Shogun? He was the one leading the party.


    330: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾329


    Nah, the salaryman was just organizing things because he''s the only sane one. Jinguji Kaede was really the one at the center of it all.


    331: Anonymous Explorer


    At the center? More like she was the berserker charging ahead into battle.


    332: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion was also charging ahead, so it''s fine. EX ranks are just a bunch of savages.


    333: Anonymous Explorer


    Now that the Sapporo Dungeon has been conquered, the number of visitors won''t really change. Just look at the Takayama Dungeon. It was fully conquered, but nothing changed there either.


    334: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, even if the deep floors are cleared, it doesn''t affect the explorers in the upper and middle floors at all. The only ones making a fuss about this are regular people who don''t even go into dungeons.


    335: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve heard more tourists will start coming, though, including some explorers from abroad for sightseeing.


    336: Anonymous Explorer


    Just being known as a dungeon with cleared deep floors makes it a hot topic.


    337: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾335


    I remember hearing something similar when a dungeon in another country was cleared. Non-explorers would visit the entrance for sightseeing, and WDAO-member countries allow explorers some freedom to explore, so it attracted a lot of people.


    338: Anonymous Explorer


    Find adventures at m_v l|e-NovelFire.net


    £¾£¾334


    The media''s going crazy too. They tried asking the EX group a bunch of questions without any regard, and Jinguji Kaede just glared at them.


    339: Anonymous Explorer


    I was at the entrance of the Sapporo Dungeon when the EX explorers came back, and the place was swarming with reporters. Why are there so many media outlets?


    340: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾339


    Apparently, it''s so they can "keep each other in check" and ensure neutral reporting¡­ But in reality, it''s all biased reporting and privacy invasions.


    341: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m a small-time explorer mainly working in the Sapporo Dungeon. Watching the deep-floor streams doesn''t help me understand anything.


    342: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s expected.


    343: Anonymous Explorer


    To the regulars who can reach the deep floors, this might just feel like another instance of EX explorers stealing all the glory. But for those of us stuck on the upper floors, nothing changes.


    344: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not that we''re stuck. The upper floors of Sapporo Dungeon are popular because the monsters are predictable and easy to handle. The people there don''t have any ambition to move up to the middle floors.


    345: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, the upper floors of Sapporo Dungeon only have specific types of monsters, and there''s never been any exceptions. It''s basically an unchanging dungeon.


    346: Anonymous Explorer


    You mean those small, glass-like golem things?


    347: Anonymous Explorer


    Small (1 meter).


    348: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s still pretty small.


    349: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re made of glass, so they''re incredibly fragile. You can just take a basic iron club, smash them, and get magic stones. It''s probably the easiest place in Japan to make money from the upper floors.


    350: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Shibuya Dungeon''s upper floors have those ridiculously hard Steel Ants. That''s just unfair.


    351: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾349


    In the upper floors of Takayama Dungeon, you can hunt big, but relatively weak, chickens and sell their meat for more than magic stones. Though there aren''t that many of them.


    352: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s pointless if you can''t find them. Sapporo''s glass golems are everywhere.


    353: Anonymous Explorer


    Just go to the middle floors.


    354: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors start introducing all sorts of weird monsters. No thanks.


    355: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors of Sapporo Dungeon are seriously tougher than those in Shibuya.


    356: Anonymous Explorer


    The upper floors of Shibuya are harder, but once you hit the middle floors, Sapporo''s dungeon gets way tougher. No idea about the lower floors, though.


    357: Anonymous Explorer


    But from what I''ve seen, the deep floors of Shibuya Dungeon are way worse. Just watch Kisaragi''s streams.


    [Clip] Shocking! Deep Floors of Shibuya Dungeon


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    358: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, after a dungeon''s been conquered, I kinda lose interest in going there. Are there any other good dungeons?


    359: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ve got dungeon "purity fanboys" now?


    360: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾359


    LOL.


    361: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾359


    Dungeon purity fanboys. LOL. That''s hilarious.


    362: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾359


    I hate myself for laughing at something so dumb.


    363: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾358


    That attitude is why you''re stuck on the upper floors.


    364: Anonymous Explorer


    So, you''re saying, "I''m not going to the conquered Sapporo Dungeon because it''s used goods. I''ll go to an unconquered dungeon instead"? You''ve gotta be joking. Do you even realize how far apart dungeons are?


    365: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the nearest dungeon to Sapporo?


    366: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably Wakkanai''s?


    367: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t Aomori''s dungeon closer in a straight line?


    368: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾366


    £¾£¾367


    This is what I''m talking about. If you want to make a living off dungeons, you have to live near one.


    369: Anonymous Explorer


    So, the people living near Nagoya Dungeon, which no one can conquer, are the weakest?


    370: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾369


    Can''t argue with that¡­ Aichi is pretty much screwed.


    371: Anonymous Explorer


    But the Takayama and Ise dungeons are nearby. (whispers)


    372: Anonymous Explorer


    Ise isn''t that close.


    373: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s still a million times better than the distance between Sapporo and Wakkanai.


    374: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL. People always underestimate how huge Hokkaido is.


    375: Anonymous Explorer


    I live in Sapporo, but I''ve never been to a dungeon. I don''t even know much about magic. I''ve never taken a magic aptitude test¡ªjust a NEET.


    376: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾375


    As a NEET, it''s probably too physically demanding for you, so just don''t bother.


    377: Anonymous Explorer


    You might think you''ve got some hidden power that''ll make you rich, but in reality, only people willing to risk their lives make money from this. It''s not something a NEET sitting around on a forum could handle.


    378: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re better off getting a regular part-time job.


    379: Anonymous Explorer


    You can''t even do that, which is why you''re a NEET.


    380: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    381: Anonymous Explorer


    People might think being an explorer is an easy job, but the top explorers make an absurd amount of money.


    382: Anonymous Explorer


    Only the top guys get rich, though. Same as in any company. The execs get paid several times more than your annual salary¡ªjust from bonuses.


    But I wouldn''t know.


    383: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, Sapporo Dungeon isn''t that great for making money. It''s pretty much the same as Shibuya. I tried going to the middle floors last month and ended up in the hospital.


    384: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re lucky to be alive.


    385: Anonymous Explorer S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    £¾£¾383


    Almost died. LOL.


    386: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re lucky it was just a hospital stay. Plenty of people get greedy and end up dead in the deeper floors.


    387: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle and lower floors of Sapporo Dungeon all look the same. It''s hard to even tell where you are.


    388: Anonymous Explorer


    You should take notes every time you go down a staircase. Makes it easier to track where you are.


    389: Anonymous Explorer


    Is there an age limit for becoming an explorer?


    390: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like getting a driver''s license. You can do it even if you''re 60 or 80. Whether you can actually explore dungeons is another question, though.


    391: Anonymous Explorer


    I quit my job because my company was terrible. Thinking of trying my hand at being an explorer.


    392: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t do it.


    393: Anonymous Explorer


    Here it is¡ªthe classic explorer failure story. "I quit my job because it was awful, so now I''m going to become an explorer." I''ve never seen a real one until now. LOL.


    394: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾391


    Make sure you take a magic aptitude test first. To qualify as an explorer, you need a magic level of about 20. But to get to the middle floors, you''ll need at least 50.


    395: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the magic level even based on?


    396: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s calculated in some complicated way that I don''t understand. I''ve never had to use my magic level since becoming an explorer, so I don''t even know my own.


    397: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not like height, where you can easily measure it.


    398: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾394


    I took a magic aptitude test the other day, and I got a 53. Is that high? I don''t really know much about being an explorer, so can someone explain it to me?


    399: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾398


    Go become an explorer right now.


    400: Anonymous Explorer


    Dude, you should totally become an explorer. You''ll make way more than at a black company.


    401: Anonymous Explorer


    The sudden change of opinion. LOL.


    402: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, if someone seems promising, of course we''ll recommend it. He has a magic level of 50! He could easily become a middle-floor explorer.


    403: Anonymous Explorer


    If you can consistently explore the middle floors, you''ll make more than the average salaryman. You should get your explorer''s license and start hitting the dungeons.


    404: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾391


    Here are some links to basic dungeon knowledge:


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Check these out, and then take the Explorer Association''s training. With your magic level, the upper floors should be a breeze.


    405: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾391


    Here''s a basic dungeon course:


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    It''s Kisaragi''s, and I highly recommend it. The practical stuff is a bit tough, but if you can manage, you''ll be able to handle the middle floors. You definitely need to learn how to control your magic, though. That''s what makes the difference between minor injuries and major ones.


    406: Anonymous Explorer


    The sudden kindness. LOL.


    407: Anonymous Explorer


    Classic forum behavior¡ªswitching from tough love to being helpful in an instant.


    408: Anonymous Explorer


    Thanks for all the advice. I''ve already scheduled my exam for the explorer''s license. I''m going to try being a freelance explorer.


    409: Anonymous Explorer


    Magic aptitude tests should be mandatory at company health check-ups.


    410: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾409


    But then the companies would lose workers, and Keidanren (the business federation) wouldn''t be happy about that.


    411: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop being a lapdog for the Ministry of Finance.


    412: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder if the Sapporo Dungeon golem keychains will suddenly start selling like crazy. I''ve been making them.


    413: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾412


    What the hell is that¡­


    414: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾412


    What made you think that would sell? I''m curious.


    415: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve got no business sense, man. Give it up.


    416: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh? I actually bought one as a souvenir from my trip to Sapporo.


    417: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, there''s a fan.


    418: Anonymous Explorer


    Really? I don''t think, "Hey, I should start making Sapporo Dungeon keychains," is going to catch on.


    419: Anonymous Explorer


    I just got here, but did the Sapporo Dungeon really get cleared while I was away? I was planning to conquer it someday in my hometown. How did they clear it so fast? I wanted to study and prepare for it properly first.


    420: Anonymous Explorer


    Have you been living under a rock? This has been all over the news. How could you not know? You must be a total NEET.


    421: Anonymous Explorer


    Why do NEETs who have no idea about dungeons always pop up on these forums?

 Chapter 88: Defining Strengths

    It''s September.


    After clearing the Sapporo Dungeon on August 31st, it''s obvious that time has moved on, and here we are in the second week of September. It''s the season when students return to school after summer vacation. This period is notorious for the spike in student suicides, which I get, honestly.


    I always hated the end of summer vacation when I was a kid¡­ Now, with all my explorer activities, I barely even feel like a student anymore, so it doesn''t bother me as much.


    These days, though, even in September, it''s still hot. It doesn''t feel like autumn at all. Why is it 30 degrees in September? That''s a midsummer temperature. When did September start feeling like midsummer?


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun."


    "¡­Good morning."


    "Whoa, you seem down... Are you tired?"


    "Not really, no."


    Asakawa-san greeted me with her usual high energy. I guess for someone like her, even the first day back at school after summer vacation is fun. Personally, I feel like I could leave right now. I still don''t get why I had to come to school just for the opening ceremony. Maybe she finds something enjoyable about it that I don''t understand. sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Nanami... good morning..."


    "O-oh, morning... Akari? What happened?"


    "E-exam prep, you know..."


    Ah¡­ So that''s why so many people here look like they''re on the brink of death. We''re in the third year of high school, so most of them have probably been cramming for exams all summer, attending prep schools and studying hard.


    "What about you, Nanami?"


    "Me? I''m planning to join Tsukasa-kun''s company."


    "I''m starting my own business. I''ve been consulting with people I trust, and I''m in the process of getting it off the ground."


    Mainly with Aizawa-san and Shinano-san. As an explorer, I won''t lose to the adults in this field, but as a working adult, I''m still just a kid. I need guidance before making big decisions. I''m learning as I go, bit by bit.


    "A job straight out of high school, huh... That''s not bad either... But I want to go to university. There''s something I want to do."


    "If you have a clear goal, like something you want to achieve, then going to university is definitely a good idea."


    To me, university isn''t a place to just continue being a student out of inertia. Sure, these days many companies won''t even look at you unless you''re a college graduate, especially if you''re a fresh graduate. But when I see tuition fees skyrocketing, I wonder if it''s really worth taking out student loans. Well, it''s not like I can talk much, since I''m starting my own business.


    "There''s also the academic test right after summer vacation, right? If I don''t score well, my allowance gets cut... So I''m really desperate."


    "That sounds tough."


    "...Wait, what?"


    "Uh, Tsukasa-kun?"


    "What''s wrong? Don''t tell me you''re worried about the academic test?"


    "..."


    Oh no¡­ I haven''t even looked at the handouts we got from school lately. I''ve been completely out of the loop. This is my fault entirely, but¡­ maybe I can get out of it¡­ No, I can''t. I need to accept my fate.


    "Whoa, you look like you''ve reached enlightenment or something."


    "...Tsukasa-kun, you forgot about the academic test, didn''t you?"


    Hmph... Why is it that Asakawa-san always figures me out so easily?


    "Hmm¡­ I feel like I''ve hit a bit of a wall lately."


    "...Really?"


    I was starting to feel more confident as an explorer, but it seems like Asakawa-san has been feeling a bit stuck.


    "Ah, I''ll just have iced tea."


    "I''ll have black coffee, like usual."


    As usual, we''re sitting in a caf¨¦ near the Shibuya Dungeon, ordering drinks while chatting. I thought we could have done this at home, but Asakawa-san seems to enjoy the atmosphere of these outdoor caf¨¦s. Well, even though this place is technically underground, it''s probably best not to bring that up.


    "Before, I could barely survive near the lower levels'' entrance. But now, I can handle myself in the lower layers. I thought I''d keep getting stronger and stronger, but... the deep layers seem so far away, like they''re out of reach."


    "Your goal is...?"


    "...Let''s not talk about that. For now, I''m just feeling a bit stuck, I guess?"


    Her goal... I don''t know the details of what Asakawa-san is aiming for, but it seems like she''s set her sights on diving into the deep layers. But the deep layers aren''t the kind of place you can easily reach. That''s the reality.


    "...I was watching a stream the other day, and it made me lose some confidence."


    "A stream?"


    "The Sapporo Dungeon one."


    "Ah, that..."


    So, that''s why she was feeling like the deep layers were so out of reach. Find exclusive content at m|v-l-NovelFire.net


    "If you''re comparing yourself to Kamishiro-san, you should stop."


    "...Why?"


    "She''s a monster, born with her abilities. You and Kamishiro-san are completely different types."


    "Is that so?"


    Kamishiro-san is a natural-born genius, able to control her immense magical power with instinct alone, wielding devastating magic without much effort. I doubt she''s ever had to practice her magic control.


    "But you have your own strengths, Asakawa-san. Your unique ability to see mana is something Kamishiro-san doesn''t have."


    "Do you think so?"


    "Absolutely. The precision with which you control mana because you can see it is unmatched. I''ve never seen anyone handle mana as meticulously as you do."


    Being able to control mana precisely means you can minimize waste when casting spells. This translates directly into more sustained firepower. In the unpredictable environment of the deep layers, having high endurance and sustainability in battle is a major advantage.


    "Are you trying to encourage me?"


    "I''m just stating facts. That''s just the premise... now, here''s the main point."


    That''s right¡ªwhat I''ve said is just the groundwork. Asakawa-san has talents I''ve never seen before, and I don''t know how those talents will develop. But if she nurtures them, she''ll surpass many other explorers.


    "Your talent is one of a kind. You have your own unique strength."


    "So, what are you saying?"


    "I''m saying you need to define that strength more clearly. The deep layers aren''t easy, but I believe you can adapt."


    This is my honest belief. I have no doubt that she will eventually become someone who thrives in the deep layers. In fact, I wouldn''t be surprised if she becomes the next EX-rank explorer.

 Chapter 89: A New Request

    I''ve been getting a lot of collaboration requests lately. Actually, it''s been happening every day. But I''ve ignored all of them. Most of these requests are probably from people hoping to ride the wave after my collaboration with Miyamoto-san. I mean, I did say that I collaborated with her because of a message I received on social media.


    But the reason I collaborated with Miyamoto-san was that I had been paying attention to her for a while. I have no intention of collaborating with people I don''t know well.


    Speaking of Miyamoto-san, she''s been doing well since her rank rose to D, and she''s been diving into the mid-level floors of dungeons as a member of Kanacon. Thanks to her, my subscriber count has soared well past a million, and many of those new viewers seem to have checked out her channel as well.


    I watched her recent mid-level adventures through archived streams, and it''s clear she''s handling the increased attention gracefully.


    With Asakawa-san and now Miyamoto-san, that makes two people I''ve directly mentored in a way. I''d like to help more people, but I''m not that versatile, so I hope to leave that to people like Aizawa-san or Grandma.


    Now that I''ve cleared my big goal of conquering the Sapporo Dungeon, the Association''s requests for me have dramatically decreased, probably because I''m still a student. Not that I mind, but apparently Shinano-san talked directly with Shishijima-san to free up some time for me. She''s starting to feel more like an idol manager than a dungeon explorer.


    Grandma, who had been talking about retiring, seems to have been roped back in by the Association after all. Her husband gently convinced her to reconsider and stay active. Honestly, I think her husband''s incredible for managing to maintain such a good relationship with someone as intense as Grandma.


    Stay connected with m-v l|e''-NovelFire.net


    But what I really wanted to say is¡­ I''ve got too much free time on my hands. In other words, I''m bored.


    Dungeons are a part of my life, but even I don''t feel like heading straight into one right after returning from the Sapporo Dungeon. So I''ve spent my remaining summer vacation lazing around, watching baseball or other people''s streams, and before I knew it, summer was over.


    I''m excused from a lot of things due to my explorer activities, so my test scores aren''t terrible, but I''m not exactly motivated to study. I even bought some economics books to prep for becoming a CEO, but most of them feel like scammy self-help books. It''s like when people buy self-help books, feel satisfied just by owning them, and then sell them for peanuts without reading them.


    "Hm?"


    My phone buzzed with a notification sound. Someone messaged me¡­ but who?


    "...Miyamoto-san?"


    The name "Miyamoto Kana" was displayed on my phone screen. We exchanged contact information after our collaboration, but I didn''t expect her to actually reach out. I tossed aside my politics textbook and opened the message.


    "Thank you for your hard work. This is Miyamoto Kana. I''m messaging you today because I''d like your advice on something. Please reply whenever you have time. I''ll be waiting."


    "What''s going on?"


    Since I had nothing better to do, I responded right away. Unlike Asakawa-san, Miyamoto-san''s concerns are likely dungeon-related, which makes it easier to reply. Even though she''s older than me, as an explorer, I''m the senior here.


    "I''m a bit surprised by your quick response. It''s about my weapon. The blacksmith I work with told me it''s time to upgrade my axe. Do you know of any good materials for a battleaxe that could still be effective in the lower layers of dungeons?"


    Hmm¡­ I see. For someone like Miyamoto-san, who relies on her weapon for combat, the performance of her gear is a matter of life and death. For me, I can get by with somewhat average materials since I mainly use shikigami and magic in battle. But for Miyamoto-san, who can''t use magic, that won''t work.


    That said, I''m not particularly knowledgeable about weapons since I mainly rely on shikigami and only use my sword for enemies where it''s particularly effective. I should probably ask someone who knows more about this, like Aizawa-san.


    "I''ll ask someone I know who might have an idea. For materials suitable for the lower layers, it may require materials from monsters down there."


    "Understood. I''ll keep trying on my end as well."


    "I''ll let you know if I find anything useful."


    I honestly don''t know much about materials for battleaxes. I''ll just ask Aizawa-san¡ªhe''s bound to know. He''s always busy, though, even when he''s not exploring, so I''ll just send a simple message for now.


    Speaking of which, Miyamoto-san''s message reminded me that it might be time for me to upgrade my sword, too. The one I''m using now is a simple blade that I had made shortly after I became an EX-rank explorer. Though it''s crafted from materials from the deep layers, it''s not exactly custom-made.


    I did get that crystal lizard material from the Sapporo Dungeon, so maybe I''ll use it to commission something better.


    "For a battleaxe, something a bit heavier might actually work best. Materials from inorganic monsters like golems could be ideal, rather than something like teeth or claws from beasts."


    While I was thinking about it, surprisingly, Aizawa-san responded immediately. Maybe he''s also staying out of dungeons for a bit, recovering after the Sapporo Dungeon.


    As for Miyamoto-san''s combat style... she''s definitely a weapon-focused fighter who relies on enhancing her gear with magic.


    "She primarily relies on magic to enhance her weapon for close combat. She''s not very adept with magic itself." S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "If that''s the case, she should focus on materials that can conduct magic efficiently. As long as the material channels magic well, even something a bit fragile can work as a weapon. Still, it needs to be durable enough to function without magic."


    "Thanks a lot."


    "It''s best to get detailed advice on materials directly from the blacksmith. They know much more about materials than explorers do."


    Well, it''s true. Most explorers aren''t that interested in monster materials¡­ myself included. Serious explorers like Aizawa-san pay attention to that kind of thing, but most others are just interested in whether they can sell the materials for a good price or not.

 Chapter 90: Handling the Heat

    My SNS account is having a minor flame war. I''m watching it like it''s someone else''s problem, but since I''ve turned off all notifications, it doesn''t really affect me. I can still see updates from the official account of the game I''m playing, so there''s no issue at all.


    The reason for the flame war¡­ is my relationship with the person I''m collaborating with next.


    **[Recently, I haven''t gone a day without seeing their name on the internet. I''ll be collaborating with "Tsukasa Kisaragi"! The stream will mainly focus on answering questions from the perspective of someone who doesn''t usually delve into dungeons. I''m really looking forward to it!] S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [The date will be announced later. Since they''re an EX-level explorer, it seems it will take some time to adjust the schedule!]**


    This is the reason I''m being flamed. The person who posted this online was the popular virtual streamer Sasami Torimomo. In other words, it''s blowing up because fans are saying, "How dare my favorite streamer collaborate with a guy!" They''re flaming me instead of Sasami Torimomo, so that''s at least a relief. But I wonder if virtual streamers always get flamed like this¡­ must be tough.


    I''m not familiar with the dungeon streaming community, but are there really hardcore fans who are in love with people over the internet? I don''t get it at all¡­ what kind of emotions are these people feeling while watching streams?


    "I''m so sorry¡­!"


    "No, honestly, we underestimated this situation."


    Sasami Torimomo herself called to apologize about my account being flamed. It seems even her manager found the situation bizarre, and they felt bad about it. When they suggested apologizing over the phone, Sasami Torimomo insisted on making the call herself.


    "I knew I was disliked in certain parts of the internet, but I didn''t expect it to be this bad."


    "Ugh¡­ I really respect you, Kisaragi-san!"


    "Thank you. Well, I think it''s better to take advantage of the buzz and do the collab now while it''s a hot topic, whether it''s good or bad."


    "Wow, you''re mentally strong."


    The flame war is just starting, and it''s not that big yet. If we go ahead and do the collab while it''s still a topic of interest, more people will tune in. And once the collab is over, the connection between us will fade, and the flame will naturally die down. I think we should take the risk and go for the attention now.


    "But what about your schedule¡­?"


    "It''s fine. Until the end of September, I''m on break after conquering the Sapporo Dungeon."


    "Oh, I see¡­"


    "So, please just schedule it at your convenience, Sasami Torimomo-san."


    The collab is just me appearing via video call on Sasami Torimomo''s channel, not meeting in person, so it''s easy to arrange the time. The only problem might be stepping into enemy territory. I''m sure the comment section will be brutal. I''ll leave that to Sasami Torimomo and just avoid looking at the comments.


    "Then, how about this Saturday?"


    "That''s fine. My academic test will be over by then."


    "A test¡­? That''s nostalgic. I sometimes forget you''re still a student, Kisaragi-san."


    "Haha¡­ I''m glad it''ll be something we can talk about."


    I don''t have many universally relatable topics like academic tests. I might want to consult with Asakawa about that.


    "Well, again¡­ I''m really sorry."


    "No need to worry about it."


    I ended the call there. Even if there''s a flame war online, it doesn''t really concern me since I barely check the internet anyway. My daily posts are inconsistent, and I''m generally pretty laid-back. Still, there''s no need to add fuel to the fire, so I''ll stop posting for a while.


    "What should I prepare for casual conversation topics?"


    : Don''t ask us.


    : Why do you think we have the answer?


    : You should be able to figure that out, being one of us.


    : Just talk about the weather.


    Stay updated via m-v l|-NovelFire.net


    : The weather deck is too weak, though.


    : Once you use the weather deck, you can''t use it again, so it''s a big disadvantage.


    : Stop treating conversation like a card game.


    The only people I can rely on are my viewers. When I set up a chat stream, more people showed up than I expected. I even saw a few comments in foreign languages, but since this is a chat stream and not a dungeon exploration stream, I probably won''t meet their expectations¡­ sorry about that.


    Still, there are some offensive comments coming through¡­ should I delete them?


    : Get a moderator.


    : But mods have their pros and cons.


    : It''s annoying when mods get too full of themselves.


    : But leaving the comments alone isn''t great either.


    : You''re famous enough to have a flame war, huh?


    : I wonder.


    : If the weather deck''s no good, use the health deck.


    : Seems like it all depends on what Kisaragi thinks.


    : Ultimately, it''s Kisaragi''s stream, so do whatever you want.


    : Congrats on your first flame war.


    : What, are you gonna show your health check results for the health deck?


    : Just stir things up with a gacha tease.


    "If I stir things up with gacha talk, I''ll get flamed immediately."


    : Lol


    : Don''t just respond to that.


    : I was worried you''d be hurt by all the comments. Give me my concern back.


    : Mentally strong, huh?


    : Well, he''s an explorer.


    : Don''t assume an explorer can handle anything.


    "Well, it doesn''t really bother me, but it''s amusing¡­ Oh, maybe I just added fuel to the fire."


    People really can come up with insults so easily. I''m curious about where all that negative energy comes from. I mean, logically speaking, why would you insult someone that much?


    : Keep fanning the flames.


    : This guy really doesn''t care, huh?


    : He usually ignores 90% of the comments anyway.


    : You''re not really interested in what others think of you, are you?


    : You''ve spent too much time in the wilds of the dungeon.


    : Does mental harassment even matter to someone who risks their life in a dungeon?


    "It doesn''t bother me, but other people might be affected, so please stop. That is, if you have enough common sense to understand."


    : Are you provoking them?


    : Stop with the natural jerk moves.


    : Lol


    : Are we starting a comment battle?


    : A comment war with an EX-level explorer?


    : I won''t lose a comment war!


    : Na-na-na-na boo-boo!


    : Are you a child?


    It''s not that I''m immune because I''m an adult or anything. It''s just that insults from people I don''t know don''t feel real. It''s like seeing graffiti in a bathroom; who''d actually believe it''s about them?

 Chapter 92: A Joyful Excursion

    "Alright, next is a basic question¡­ Could you tell us your magic power value, Kisaragi-san?"


    "...What?"


    "Wait, do you not know your own magic power value?"


    What''s a magic power value again?


    : Lol, his face is genuinely confused.


    : Explorers don''t really measure their magic power value.


    : Yeah, I''ve never seen explorers actually use magic power values.


    : Isn''t it only used when you qualify to become an explorer?


    : You probably only use it that one time in your life.


    : Regular people ask about it like it''s their height, but explorers don''t know their magic power values.


    : Don''t explorers have health check-ups or something?


    : They do, but magic power isn''t measured during them.


    : What''s the point of having that value, anyway¡­?


    Crap. I seriously don''t know. I vaguely remember hearing something about it during some kind of school test¡­ or maybe I didn''t? I''m not sure. I feel like I''ve heard people talk about measuring it back in the academy, but I''ve never really thought it was important enough to remember. Maybe it was just something mentioned in passing during the qualification process.


    "The magic power value is a number that indicates how much latent magic energy is present in your body. You need at least 20 to qualify as an explorer."


    "Oh¡­ Sorry, I honestly have no idea what my value is. And I think there''s probably no point in explorers knowing their magic power value after becoming one."


    "Why''s that?"


    "Well, for one thing, I''m not even sure how it''s measured. But more importantly, for someone like me who''s already a trained explorer, I can freely control the magic energy in my body. So, measuring how much is latent or dormant doesn''t really mean anything. It''s like asking how much water you have in a bottle when you can refill it as much as you need."


    : That''s it.


    : Seriously?


    : So Kisaragi could make his magic power value 0 or 100 if he wanted?


    : What''s the point of even having that value then¡­?


    : Makes no sense, lol.


    : Why bother creating a value that''s useless?


    This seems like one of those things that show the gap between the explorers who are out in the field and the people who work in the Association office, managing things from behind a desk. For us, manipulating our magic power is second nature; it''s a skill we practice and refine over time. It''s not something static like height or weight.


    So, naturally, the magic power value we might have had measured once in the academy is irrelevant in real life. I doubt any professional explorer even knows their magic power value, and even if they did, it wouldn''t matter. Magic fluctuates, after all. It''s not something that stays constant.


    "You might need at least 20 to qualify as an explorer, but honestly, I think if you train properly, anyone can reach 30 or more. To be frank, it''s a pretty useless metric once you''re actively using magic."


    "I see¡­ Maybe I should try a bit harder then."


    "Of course, if you have a high magic power value, that does mean you have talent, and it could give you an edge early on. But after a certain point, it''s just not a useful indicator anymore."


    : So if I was disqualified for low magic power, do I still have a chance?


    : You could make up for it with effort, but if you can only make it to the upper layers, what''s the point?


    : It''s all about talent in the end.


    : Just curse your lack of talent.


    : You might be able to become an explorer, at least.


    The more I think about it, the less sense it makes. Why does the system even exist? If they could measure it more accurately, maybe it would serve a purpose. But as it is now, it''s more of a formality¡ªsomething to check off on your way to becoming an explorer. I can''t remember a single time when knowing someone''s magic power value actually mattered in the field.


    Once you''re in the dungeon, your survival doesn''t depend on how much magic you have; it''s about how well you can use what you have.


    "Okay, next question¡­ How did you learn Shikigami magic? I''ve never seen anyone else use it. Is it just that no one streams it?"


    "Hmm? I''ve never seen anyone else use Shikigami magic either, to be honest. Probably because it''s not very practical. It''s a bit of a niche magic, I suppose."


    : What¡­?


    : Don''t say that yourself.


    : But you use it so effectively!


    : Not practical (but not weak either).


    "You see, Shikigami magic requires a lot of preparation. You have to create the Shikigami in advance, and that process is pretty time-consuming. Also, Shikigami aren''t inherently that powerful. You have to pour a lot of magic into them, but even then, their output is limited."


    "Is that so?"


    "Yeah, when I create a Shikigami, I pour a ton of magic into it, but when I summon it, I''m lucky if it outputs even a tenth of that power. It might be cost-effective in terms of summoning magic, but it''s a long process. It takes patience and careful planning, which isn''t always ideal in high-pressure situations."


    Since I prepare the Shikigami while I''m above ground and then summon them in the dungeon, it feels cost-effective in terms of conserving magic during an expedition. But it''s undeniably a hassle. You need a clear mental image of the Shikigami before you can even summon it. If your image isn''t precise enough, the summoning could fail altogether.


    : I see.


    : Didn''t they say using Shikigami magic requires natural talent?


    : Yeah, I think they said you need to be born with a gift for it.


    : Sounds tough.


    : There''s no easy way to win in a dungeon, huh?


    : Kisaragi is working hard, too.


    : Of course he is.


    "And as for how I learned Shikigami magic¡­ I don''t know if I should be saying this, but I learned it from an ancient secret text passed down in Kaede Jinguji''s family."


    "...Wait, are you even allowed to read that?"


    "I don''t know. But one day, Kaede handed it to me and said, ''You can learn to use this.'' The cover said ''Secret Text,'' so I''m pretty sure it''s supposed to be a one-person-only kind of magic."


    : What the heck?


    : Lol, that''s hilarious.


    : What''s going on with Jinguji¡­?


    : Isn''t that a little too careless?


    : One-person-only (lol).


    : I''m pretty sure that''s the kind of book you''re not supposed to share with others.


    : This would throw off the power balance.


    : Make copies and distribute them nationwide.


    : Let me read it too.


    I have no idea either. To this day, I''m not sure if it was really okay for me to read that book. I''ve never asked about it because, honestly, I''m a little afraid of the answer. But my grandma once told me that she couldn''t use Shikigami magic, and neither could her children or grandchildren, so maybe that''s why Kaede decided to pass it on to me.


    Still, my grandma''s idea of "not enough magic power" could apply to someone who''s still a mid-layer explorer. So, I''m not sure how seriously to take her words. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So yeah, I got stronger through some unique methods. But if anyone''s thinking of becoming a dungeon explorer now, I''d recommend you follow Aizawa''s example and take a steady, disciplined approach to getting stronger. Definitely don''t try to do it the way Kamishiro does."


    : Lol, good advice.


    : Yeah, if more people like Kamishiro showed up, the dungeons would collapse.


    : If more people like Kamishiro Rion showed up, I think the Explorer Association would fall apart before the dungeons.


    : Isn''t it crazy that someone as chaotic as Kamishiro is an EX explorer?


    : Maybe being chaotic is what makes them EX-level?


    : So true, lol.


    Continue your journey on m|v-l''e -NovelFire.net


    : They''re EX because they''re that insane.


    "Hearing your stories, Kisaragi-san, makes me want to be an explorer, but it also sounds kind of scary¡­"


    "You only live once, so I think you should go for it. If you stay in the upper layers, the monsters aren''t that strong, so you probably won''t die. Plus, the upper layers are usually small, and there are lots of people around, so if anything goes wrong, someone will help you."


    Well, there are some upper-layer dungeons that are insane from the very first floor, but at least there''s none of that in Japan, so you should be fine here. In fact, most upper-layer dungeons in Japan are so well-explored and mapped that they''re considered relatively safe.


    "The most important thing for dungeon exploration isn''t strength but knowledge. As long as you study up on dungeons like Sasami Torimomo-san does, I think you''ll be fine reaching the upper layers. Knowing what you''re up against is half the battle."


    That being said, I can''t guarantee anything beyond the middle layers. Once you get past the upper layers, it''s like stepping into a completely different world. The difference between the upper and middle layers is like night and day, so it''s not a place for the unprepared. But if you''re just looking to explore the upper layers and make some money, it can be a good side gig.


    At the very least, it''s a safer bet than most of the scams out there.


    "By the way, even if it''s just a side gig, if you make over 300,000 yen from dungeon exploration in a year, you''ll get a tax deduction on your overall income. So if you''re going to do it, try to make at least 300,000 yen."


    "Money is important, after all!"


    : Just make sure to file your taxes.


    : Is it worth going through the hassle of filing taxes just for the deduction?


    : The deduction is pretty significant, so if you can, make sure to earn 300,000 yen in a year from dungeon exploration.


    : I think you can manage it if you dive into the upper layers around 50 times a year.


    : Can you, though?


    : No way.


    : Yeah, you probably can.

 Chapter 93: A Virtual Streamers Perspective on Dungeons

    "Phew¡­ I feel like I asked too many questions¡­"


    "No, it''s totally fine. That''s what this stream is for."


    "Well, I guess you''re right, but still¡­"


    Honestly, the questions I had prepared answers for beforehand didn''t come up as much as I had anticipated. I suppose this is the difference between someone who actually dives into dungeons and someone who only knows about them from bits of information they pick up here and there. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    It''s something I hadn''t really considered until now, but it''s a gap worth thinking about. I had expected more questions about technicalities, tactics, and the day-to-day grind of dungeon exploring, but I ended up fielding more fundamental questions. I guess that makes sense, given the audience, but it''s an interesting shift from what I''m used to.


    "Anyway, it''s been about an hour, so I think it''s time to wrap things up. Thank you so much for today!"


    "Likewise, I learned a lot myself."


    "Wait, but I was the one asking the questions, wasn''t I?"


    "Well¡­ I still learned a lot, in various ways."


    : Sounds suspicious.


    : Even I don''t usually watch virtual streamers, but this was more fun than I thought.


    : So, collabing with a virtual streamer leads to getting flamed, lesson learned.


    : Virtual streamers need to train their audiences better.


    : That''s pointless. Half of them can''t even read the chat properly.


    : They can''t read, but they still donate tons of money? Lol.


    : Some people go into debt just to send donations.


    : Seriously¡­?


    : That''s wild. Your journey continues on m v|l--NovelFire.net


    : How do people like that even survive in society?


    : Is this a cabaret club or something?


    After the usual closing remarks that seem unique to virtual streamers, I ended the stream. This was my first time collaborating with someone who isn''t a dungeon streamer, and it was quite an interesting experience. Talking to someone who doesn''t come from the dungeon exploration world made me realize how different it feels to explain concepts and experiences that, to me, are second nature.


    It was more difficult than I expected, but it was also enlightening. I''ve gained some new knowledge, and in that sense, I''d say it was a success. Although, to be honest, the whole flame war part makes me hesitant to ever do something like this again.


    "So, that concludes the session, time for the ''post-match analysis.''"


    : Are we playing chess now?


    : Lol.


    : What kind of analysis are you going to do?


    : Maybe you shouldn''t interact with virtual streamers anymore.


    : No, you should definitely do more collabs with virtual streamers!


    : Make up your minds, guys.


    : Honestly, I only ever hear about virtual streamers when they''re involved in some controversy or lawsuit with their audience, so maybe steer clear.


    : You''ll just keep adding fuel to the fire.


    : It''s already burning down, though.


    Hmm¡­ Seems like the viewers share that image of virtual streamers too. When it comes to virtual streamer-related news on social media, it''s usually about some flame war or legal issues due to defamation and harassment.


    It''s true that virtual streamers don''t exactly have the best reputation online. Even though Sasami Torimomo seems to run a pretty clean and transparent operation, I guess the fact that she''s collaborating with a male like me was enough to cause this whole mess.


    "Well, this post-match analysis includes evaluating my communication skills, or rather, my lack of them."


    : It was a total loss, wasn''t it?


    : Maybe we should stop talking about your communication skills, it''s too painful.


    : Is there even a point to this analysis?


    : Didn''t you just make a series of bad moves?


    : Looks like Kisaragi is receiving a brutal evaluation.


    : Well, what did you expect? Lol.


    : You do seem to struggle with communication a bit, huh?


    : Don''t sugarcoat it.


    : He might have some new viewers from the Sapporo Dungeon broadcast, you know?


    "¡­Okay, I see. I think I understand now how you all felt about the stream."


    I mean, it''s not like I''m unaware that my communication skills are severely lacking. But, the thing is, when it comes to dungeons, I tend to just jump straight to the conclusion. That''s kind of a habit I''ve developed over the years. After all, most of the people I usually talk to about dungeons are either high-ranking Association officials or people like Aizawa.


    There''s no point in going over all the small details with them. They want the facts, the results, and the big picture. So, I''ve gotten used to skipping the fluff and getting straight to the point.


    "As far as takeaways from today go, I think I learned a lot about how people who don''t dive into dungeons view dungeon-related content. Obviously, most of my viewers probably don''t go into dungeons themselves."


    : Yeah, I''ve never been into a dungeon.


    : Same here, I just watch the streams.


    : I do some light dungeon diving down in Okinawa, but nothing serious.


    : I''m actually an explorer, too.


    : I started exploring after watching Kisaragi''s streams.


    : I wish I could do it as a side gig, but I''m too busy.


    : I''ve got the qualifications, but no time.


    I figure most of the active commenters are probably explorers, given the nature of the conversations we usually have. But I suspect the majority of viewers who don''t comment, especially those watching from overseas, are people who have never set foot in a dungeon.


    Even within Japan, it''s said that there aren''t enough people interested in becoming dungeon explorers, so if the majority of my viewers were explorers, that would be a bit alarming.


    I''ve always known that non-explorers are watching my streams, but I never had a clear picture of how much they actually understand about dungeons. That''s why I''m grateful to Sasami Torimomo for asking all the right questions. She was able to ask the things that I never thought to explain.


    "It''s a bit like being out of touch with reality, but doesn''t it feel like your common sense starts to erode when you spend too much time in dungeons?"


    : I kind of get what you mean.


    : When you''re in a dungeon, it does start to feel like you''re the main character in a game.


    : Yeah, it''s like you start to feel a bit disconnected from real life.


    : Sometimes I catch myself wanting to move like a protagonist from a novel.


    : I almost died once, so I''ve stopped doing stuff like that.


    : Is that really how it feels?


    : Every guy dreams of adventure from a young age, don''t they?


    : It''s like how every time you pick up a stick, you want to swing it around like a sword.


    "Exactly! It''s the same feeling of excitement you get from holding a sword. When you''re in a dungeon, it''s easy to get caught up in that thrill."


    Maybe that''s why so many dungeon explorers are men. It''s not just about the reality of dungeon exploration; it''s about the dream, the adventure. It''s not something you just accept as part of life¡ªyou find yourself seeing it as something magical, something beyond the ordinary. That sense of wonder is hard to shake.


    "Of course, during our training, they always tell us not to think like that. It''s dangerous."


    : Lol, no one listens to that advice, though.


    : I can''t blame them.


    : Training is so boring, it''s hard to stay awake.


    : It''s like those videos you watch when renewing your driver''s license. Does anyone actually pay attention to those?


    : You mean that ridiculous one about motorcycles weaving between cars? Isn''t it the biker''s fault for doing that?


    : Who even cares?


    : Stop with the random stories, lol.


    Well, I wouldn''t know much about that. I''ve never gotten a driver''s license, after all. Maybe I should think about getting one, but lately, the Association has been sending people to drive me everywhere, so I''m starting to feel like I don''t really need it.


    Still, there''s something liberating about being able to go wherever you want on your own. I imagine having a car would give me that sense of independence. But with how busy dungeon exploration keeps me, I doubt I''d ever have the time to actually drive anywhere myself. Maybe it''s something I''ll think about in the future when things settle down.


    "Anyway, I''ve learned a lot from today''s experience. It might not feel like a proper ''post-match analysis,'' but that''s where I''ll end it."


    : Post-match analysis (lol).


    : Good job.


    : Keep it up!


    : Dungeon streamers should just stick to diving into dungeons.


    : I''ll be watching again.


    : Do a collab with Asagao-chan next!


    : Please don''t leave Asagao-chan hanging.


    Asakawa? Wait, why is everyone assuming it''s my responsibility to take care of Asakawa? I mean, sure, I''ll look after her, but it''s not like it''s my job!


    Well¡­ I guess I''ll do it anyway.


    Looking back at the stream, it was an interesting experience. Talking to someone who doesn''t normally dive into dungeons, especially someone as different as a virtual streamer, gave me some new insights. While I''m not sure if I''d ever want to repeat the experience (especially given the flame war that ensued), I can''t say I regret doing it.


    It was a valuable learning opportunity, and I hope my audience gained something from it too. But from now on, I think I''ll stick to what I know best¡ªdungeon exploration and sharing those experiences with people who are truly interested in that world.

 Chapter 94: Thread 13: The Virtual Streamer Fallout and Dungeon Addictions

    1: Anonymous Explorer


    Thread to discuss EX-ranked explorer UNKNOWN (real name: Tsukasa Kisaragi)


    Feel free to talk about either the explorer or Tsukasa Kisaragi''s dungeon streaming channel.


    Previous thread


    [EX Rank Explorer]UNKNOWN¡¡Part155[Tsukasa Kisaragi ch]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Tsukasa Kisaragi ch


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS Account


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    The person who gets post 950, please start the next thread.


    If you can''t, ask someone else early.


    ¡ùIt is recommended to completely ignore trolls.


    ¡ùThere are currently trolls residing in this thread.


    2: Anonymous Explorer S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks for the thread.


    Yep, the place is still a mess.


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks for starting the thread.


    £¾£¾2


    Yeah, it was obvious this was going to blow up, but the chaos is really something.


    The fact that Kisaragi is completely ignoring it makes me laugh so hard.


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    If he started worrying about every single obsessive troll, he couldn''t keep exploring the deep layers. So in a way, it''s the obvious mindset for someone at his level.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa is a creeper lolololololololol


    Quit streaming right now lololololololol


    You''re scared of the backlash and too chicken to say anything lolololol


    Quit streaming already lololololol


    Just trying to hit on virtual streamers lolololol


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    Banned: £¾£¾5


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s the right move.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    Caught a troll immediately, lol.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    I really wish the trolls would go back to their anti-thread¡­ It''s getting annoying.


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    The unicorns are going insane, but wasn''t it Momo-meat who suggested the collab?


    Are they saying Kisaragi should have read the room and turned it down just because it was a girl inviting him?


    This is gross.


    No wonder these people can''t get a girlfriend and just whine online.


    Aren''t you guys embarrassed when people call it "Virtual Cabaret"?


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾10


    Don''t solve the entire situation on your own.


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾10


    You don''t have to write everything, lol.


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾10


    Stop bombing all virtual streamer fans at once!


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to be a fan of virtual streamers, but after this fiasco, I''m taking a step back from the scene and watching Kisaragi''s stuff instead¡­ It''s just gotten way too crazy.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    People have been saying the virtual streaming world is nuts, but I didn''t think it was this bad. It''s like a sewer with no self-cleansing mechanism.


    Why is the dungeon streaming community more civilized?


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    The dungeon streaming community used to be a cesspool of people flexing and faking knowledge, and it had a pretty bad rep. But things cooled down when someone (you know who) started streaming deep-layer explorations¡ªbecause it''s a level where the flexers and fakers can''t even talk about it.


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾16


    EX rank is the best, huh?


    18: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾14


    Smart choice. Honestly, that community is just full of unstable people¡­ it''s kinda scary.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though the direction is kinda messed up, I still think virtual streaming is a super fun and groundbreaking format¡­ How did it end up turning into a virtual cabaret?


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    But the funniest thing is that Kisaragi doesn''t seem to care at all.


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, judging by his post-collab reflection stream, it looks like he''s never gonna collaborate with a virtual streamer again.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾21


    No doubt he found the whole thing too troublesome.


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    For the unicorn virtual streamer fans, this is probably a huge win.


    He''s never going to get involved with them again, after all.


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    Whatever company Kisaragi starts next, I bet he''ll completely ban virtual streamer collaborations. It''s just too much of a hassle.


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾24


    But didn''t Kisaragi mention that his company might even recruit virtual streamers?


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, running things in-house would be a lot easier.


    He wouldn''t make them into idols, after all.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    That would mean a purely merit-based competition¡­ But with Kisaragi''s name value, that should be enough to draw attention.


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a fact that Kisaragi is a creep. There''s no other reason for him to collab with virtual streamers.


    He was obviously targeting Sasami for the collab.


    Dungeon explorers are all scumbags.


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    Banned: £¾£¾28


    Even if it''s not a blatant troll comment, if you''re from the anti-thread, you''re still not welcome here.


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾29


    Fast work from the OP.


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the OP a genius?


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    For a second, I was like, "Who''s Sasami?"


    If you don''t say Torimomo Sasami, I don''t know who you mean.


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    Just call her Sasamin.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾33


    I''ve never heard anyone call her that, though.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s fine, right?


    I just made it up a second ago.


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾35


    Come on, I''ll ban you for that.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa, the trash streamer who only collaborates with girls, lolololol


    His skills as an explorer are trash too¡ªhe relies entirely on his team, scammer lololol


    Creepy creeper lolololololol


    Quit streaming lololololol


    We''re gonna harass you until you delete your account lolololol


    We''ll never forgive you, just die lololololololol


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾38


    Yikes¡­


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    Banned: £¾£¾38


    There''s a lot of them, huh?


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Just take it as proof of how popular Torimomo Sasami is and try to stay positive.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish Kisaragi would come and clear the dungeon near my hometown. I''d love to know how to beat it.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Same. I think it''d be a huge hit if he went around exploring different dungeons and giving mid-layer and lower-layer strategies.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾43


    Yeah, a lot of his viewers now seem to be high-level explorers, but most of the audience is probably still stuck in the upper layers. It''d be great if he did more educational streams, like that beginner''s guide the other day.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve pretty much got the Shibuya Dungeon figured out, right?


    Asagao-chan and Kanakon-chan have already put it into practice.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾45


    Do we really, though?


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    Nah, those two are just strong. We still don''t have any clear strategy for Shibuya Dungeon. The only dungeon that''s easy to understand is Hachioji, but going there is basically a waste of time.


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe I''ll send a request in the suggestion box.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably buried under troll comments, so I doubt it''ll get through.


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    Then I''ll just tweet him directly.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s still so much I want him to do. Like, how about a stream where he explores the Nagoya Dungeon?


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re casually asking for the impossible, lol.


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    But he''s gone underwater in dungeons before, hasn''t he?


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s EX rank, so he can do it (I''m just assuming).


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi was just starting to show interest in virtual streamers, but after all this, he probably hates them now.


    After all that''s happened, I wouldn''t understand why he wouldn''t.


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    All I can say is, what a disaster. I hope that community just stays confined to the internet and never comes out in public again.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    If you want to bash virtual streamers, do it in their anti-thread.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, I get why this thread is turning into a virtual streamer anti-thread. Honestly, Kisaragi was just unlucky here. It''s pretty unfair, considering they approached him for the collab.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    Train your fanbase properly.


    Otherwise, they''ll just cause trouble, and it''s the streamer who gets blamed for it.


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi mostly operates around Shibuya Dungeon, but he doesn''t stream much about other dungeons, does he? I wish he''d show more¡­ Didn''t he stop streaming the requests from the government entirely?


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾60


    Right now, he''s finished the Sapporo Dungeon, and the government''s stopped giving him requests, so he''s not taking any jobs at the moment.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, September''s almost over, so that downtime is about to end.


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really October already?


    It feels like it was just January a little while ago¡­


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, as you age, your sense of time speeds up.


    So £¾£¾63 must be¡­ Oh.


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾63


    Hey, old man, is time slipping away along with your hairline?


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh? I''m fully haired, thanks.


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    Are we really about to start a flame war over hair again? (sigh)


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    No one wins in a hair-related flame war, just stop it.


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, in terms of perceived time, you''ve already lived half your life by the age of 19.


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾69


    No way, that''s ridiculous.


    Is human perception of time broken?


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    So Kisaragi hasn''t even lived half his life yet.


    Man, I''m jealous¡­ youth.


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe Kisaragi''s haters are just jealous of a young guy with a bright future.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾72


    They just hate the fact that a kid is making more money than they are.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    The people in this thread are super tough on successful people. They''re convinced anyone making money must be cheating somehow¡­ all while being NEETs.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾74


    Was that last part really necessary?


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾75


    Of course it was.


    Are you feeling attacked, NEET?


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ll kill you.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, that short temper.


    Are you an old man?


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Discover stories at m,v l''-NovelFire.net


    Kisaragi just started streaming.


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    What the heck?


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    He''s streaming again, even after all that happened yesterday? Lol.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    How much does this guy love streaming?


    Didn''t he say something about enjoying the back-and-forth with the chat?


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    He probably just enjoys it because he never had friends to chat with before.


    The guy has no friends.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Oof, the painful truth.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    Most of the people in this thread are the same, that''s why we''re here arguing, lol.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t there an interview with an old man in a previous thread? He said arguing on the internet helped him cope with his loneliness.


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    [Shibuya Dungeon]Today, I''m soloing some runs


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Here you go.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾88


    Nice one.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    Thanks for the link.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m gonna go watch the stream, so I''m not coming back to this thread.


    Later, guys.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾91


    Wait, you should be watching the stream and posting here at the same time. That''s how you do it.


    You''re too soft. Commit yourself more to Kisaragi''s stream.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    Anyone who''s double-watching Kisaragi''s stream on a weekday afternoon has to be a NEET, right?


    This is kind of depressing¡­ Well, I''m gonna watch on two screens too.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    A NEET being sad about being a NEET, lol.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    So it''s a solo stream today, no collab?


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, he does a lot of collabs, so I wonder what he''s up to this time.


    Personally, I''d love to hear more about strategies for mid- and lower-layer dungeons.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾96


    Why not leave a comment and ask?


    It doesn''t seem like he has any particular goals for this stream, just exploring for the sake of it.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    What? He''s diving into a dungeon without any objective? That sounds like total dependency behavior.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, it''s like he lives in the dungeon.


    He''s always streaming from inside one.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    A complete dungeon streaming addict, lol.


    Why does he stream this often? It''s like he''s addicted to dungeon life¡­ He''s even surpassing Asagao-chan, who used to be called the dungeon addict.


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, Asagao''s his apprentice.


    The master is always supposed to outshine the student.


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    The student is supposed to surpass the master¡­ So this is foreshadowing that Asagao-chan is going to turn into an even bigger monster than Kisaragi?


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    Please, we don''t need explorers more monstrous than him. The dungeons would be destroyed at that rate.


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    Is Kisaragi a kaiju or something?

 Chapter 95: Uninvited Meet-Up and Troublemakers

    "Shibuya Dungeon, for better or worse, is pretty much the same every time, isn''t it?"


    : Don''t know about that?


    I didn''t have anything to do today, and planning a collab right now seemed like too much hassle, so I just headed to Shibuya Dungeon after school and started streaming. Right now, I''m in the middle layer, sitting on a large tree branch in the forest zone, casually chatting while watching other explorers working hard down below.


    : You''re saying "solo today" but you don''t ever go into dungeons with anyone else, do you?


    : You team up for collabs, right?


    : That''s too savage, lol.


    : Stop with the brutal honesty punches.


    : Lol.


    : It''s true, you''re always by yourself.


    : It''s like someone who never has friends saying, "I''m friendless today," and everyone''s like, "Isn''t that always the case?"


    "¡­Friendless mockery, barrier activated." S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : You okay?


    : You''re really lacking motivation today.


    : You''re talking like a kid, lol.


    : Are you burned out?


    : Way too early for that.


    : A high schooler with burnout, lol.


    : Go to the deep layers.


    : Going to the deep layers after school would be insane, stop it.


    "Still, there are a lot of people in Shibuya Dungeon today... maybe because it''s a weekday afternoon. It''s the middle layer, but there sure are a lot of people."


    Explore hidden tales at m,v l''-NovelFire.net


    I notice a few people glancing my way, probably some viewers. I mean, no one in their right mind would be looking my way while exploring a dungeon unless they knew I was going to be here. They must have found out in advance.


    : I spotted Kisaragi and waved, but he''s completely ignoring me.


    : Is it true that you can meet Kisaragi in the middle layers?


    : The guy waving is on screen, lol.


    : He''s actually on screen, I''m dying, lol.


    : This looks fun.


    : It''s turning into a Shibuya Dungeon off-line meet-up.


    : No way, I''m heading to the middle layers now!


    : What floor is this?


    : Floor 34.


    : He''s three floors above right now.


    It''s like an impromptu off-line meet-up has started. I didn''t plan this or anything, but if the viewers are having fun, I guess it''s fine. I''m just streaming because I don''t really have anything else to do, not because I had any particular intention. If I had to say, it''s just to pass the time.


    : I can''t even go to the middle layers!


    : Are there a lot of elite explorers in this stream who can make it to the middle layers?


    : Is the middle layer considered elite?


    : I guess it''s elite enough.


    : The number of people gathering around the guy waving is growing, lol.


    : Isn''t there too many viewers here?


    : Kisaragi''s pretty popular as a streamer, huh?


    I thought ignoring them would be the best strategy, but now more people are waving at me. What is this? At first, it was just one person waving like crazy, and I thought they''d lost their mind, but now it''s turned into a group of about ten people. It''s gotten so big it looks like a strange little crowd, and the other explorers seem confused by it.


    : Looks fun, lol.


    : Kisaragi''s having an off-line meet-up with his viewers, lol.


    : Kisaragi''s off-line meet-up (without him participating).


    : He''s right there, though.


    : Calling that "being there" is a bit of a stretch, don''t you think?


    : Lol.


    : This stream is too funny.


    : I kinda want to head to Shibuya Dungeon myself.


    : Everyone, gather around!


    : What a bothersome group, lol.


    "Please make sure you''re not bothering the people around you. If you cause trouble, I''ll be the one held responsible."


    : Got it.


    : Don''t worry about it.


    : It looks like a peaceful scene, but since it''s the middle layer, no one''s going to do anything too stupid, right?


    Well, as long as the viewers are having fun, that''s good¡­ but still, the number of monsters in the middle layer seems unusually low today. Maybe someone strong is around. Someone capable of going down to the lower layers, maybe?


    As I absentmindedly looked around the dungeon, I noticed a group of explorers starting to argue in the area where the off-line meet-up had been happening. I literally just asked everyone not to cause trouble...


    : What''s happening?


    : Don''t cause problems now.


    : This is why the dungeon streaming community''s reputation is bad.


    : You can''t even talk about virtual streamers after this, lol.


    : Oh no.


    : Looks like they got into a fight.


    : It''s some other streamer causing trouble¡ªAikasu is involved.


    "Aikasu? What''s that¡­ some kind of new monster?"


    : Lol, no way.


    : A new monster, lol.


    : Aikasu Renmei is a group of annoying dungeon streamers.


    : So it''s still in the dungeon streaming community, huh.


    : They''re flame-baiting dungeon streamers who cause trouble.


    : They''re actually skilled, but their attitude is awful.


    Huh¡­ I didn''t know there were annoying people like that. I''ve mostly only interacted with decent folks, so I have no idea about these troublemakers, but if my viewers are getting into trouble, I guess I should step in.


    "You guys are the ones blocking the path with your little crowd. Look, everyone! This is what Kisaragi-kun''s viewers are like¡ªjust a bunch of rude nerds who look like they can''t get a girlfriend."


    "¡­You really shouldn''t cause trouble for others. It''s not a good look."


    The guy shouting into his camera must be part of the "Aikasu Renmei" crew. Honestly, I couldn''t care less about him, but I can''t just ignore it if they''re being loud right next to me.


    "Oh look, Tsukasa Kisaragi himself shows up! You gathered all these people here and started an off-line meet-up in the dungeon, didn''t you? You''re blocking the path and it''s causing problems. You''re the one in charge of this meet-up, so deal with it!"


    "You say that, but I didn''t organize any off-line meet-up¡­ wait, it''s pointless trying to explain this, huh?"


    "You admitted it! He admitted it!"


    The blond guy who looks like he''s just messing around, and the brown-haired guy smoking a cigarette in the dungeon, they must be the Aikasu Renmei guys. But seriously, isn''t it dangerous to smoke in a dungeon?


    : Don''t engage with them.


    : They''ll just twist everything and use it against you, leave it be.


    : The meet-up is over, let''s call it a day.


    : That''s it, meet-up''s done.


    : They ruined it, but we''ll do another meet-up sometime.


    "I got to meet Kisaragi in real life!"


    "Seeing his face, I really thought, ''Wow, he''s actually a high schooler.''"


    "Bye, Kisaragi!"


    "...Wait, the meet-up''s over? You guys are leaving Kisaragi himself behind?"


    "Hey, the meet-up is over, so can we be done here?"


    Watching the viewers quickly disband after the off-line meet-up, the blond guy looks confused, but since I didn''t organize the meet-up in the first place, that''s how it goes. I was planning on wandering around the dungeon a bit more and heading home anyway.


    "Hold on a sec! You think I''m just going to let you off after causing trouble with your disruptive stream?"


    "¡­I don''t even know who you guys are, to be honest."


    : Lol.


    : Aikasu losing to Kisaragi in name recognition, lol.


    : Isn''t it embarrassing to lose even in flame-baiting notoriety?


    : Of course Kisaragi wouldn''t know them. He''s genuinely uninterested in people who just play around causing trouble.


    : He has no reason to know some streamer who thrives on causing drama.


    "I''m Aikichi!"


    "And I''m Kasumin!"


    "Oh¡­ So, you two together are ''Aikasu''¡­ that''s pretty clever."


    "What''s clever about that? We''re not comedians!"


    : They''re just a pair of idiots.


    : "Kichi" (crazy) and "Kas" (scum), lol.


    : That''s just an insult, lol.


    : Why are they acting so tough in front of an EX ranker?


    : Are they really that tough? Normally, Aikasu would be acting way more arrogant. If this were their usual, they''d be throwing punches by now.


    : They''re scared, lol.


    : Can''t they just get arrested already?


    The viewers are all saying things, but why are these guys even allowed to roam around freely like this? The Explorer Association really needs to crack down on people like them.

 Chapter 96: A Day in Shibuya Dungeon

    "So, what exactly are you trying to say?"


    "Huh!? I''m saying you caused trouble for others, so you need to apologize right here. Bow your head, Mr. EX rank."


    "Sure. I''m sorry."


    : Lol. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Head bowed too easily!


    : Well, Kisaragi doesn''t really care about that stuff.


    : Doesn''t he have any pride?


    : Pride doesn''t help you in dungeon exploration.


    : He just doesn''t have useless pride.


    : He does have pride as an explorer, though.


    Well, it''s not like anything changes just because I bowed my head¡­ It''s not like the world will end if I do. Now, if bowing my head would bring about the end of the world, I''d refuse no matter what. But since these people are just making a fuss on their own, they can keep doing that if they want.


    "¡­"


    "Um, are we done here? I''d like to go home now."


    "Do you think bowing your head will solve everything?"


    "But you''re the one who told me to apologize and bow my head, right?"


    : Ah, I see.


    : It''s probably his first time dealing with this kind of person.


    : These guys are such losers, huh.


    : Getting annoying now.


    : You can go home, Kisaragi.


    : I''ve reported Aikasu''s stream already.


    I just stopped by after school, so I''d really like to head home¡­ If there was a specific purpose to this, I might have been a bit more engaged, but I''m seriously not in the mood today.


    "So you''re just trying to dodge responsibility and run away, huh? That weak apology won''t cut it¡ªmake a proper one!"


    "Hm?"


    Suddenly, monsters appeared around us. There hadn''t been any signs of them before, so I wonder¡­ I thought other explorers had wiped them out today, but maybe something unusual is going on. Should''ve been more alert instead of zoning out. Well, since the Explorer Association hasn''t detected anything, it''s probably not a major threat.


    As I thought about that, both my device and Aikasu''s phones began blaring with loud alarms.


    : That startled me.


    : My alarm just went off too.


    : What''s going on?


    : Anyone else in Shibuya Dungeon''s middle layers get the alarm?


    "Hello?"


    "Kisaragi, you''re in the middle layers of Shibuya Dungeon right now, right?"


    "Yeah, I''m here."


    "I''m guessing you just noticed some magical anomalies, right?"


    "Yeah¡­ I''d say that''s accurate."


    Another magical anomaly, huh¡­ Though I think the frequency is lower this year compared to usual? I don''t really keep track of those specifics¡ªit''s the Association''s job¡ªbut I think I heard something about it on the news.


    "The magical anomaly is at a +3 level."


    "Just enough to trigger the alarm, huh?"


    "Yeah, even though it''s a low-level alert, we still need to address it¡­ Since you''re the closest, I''d like you to handle it."


    "Sure. I can already see it."


    While Shino''s explaining, I spot what looks like a bird flying above us. It''s probably at a lower layer''s difficulty level, way weaker than the Frost Wyvern Asakawa used to fight back when she was still inexperienced. Honestly, it''s not a monster I should even need to deal with, but since it''s right here, I might as well.


    : Oh boy.


    : Bad place to spawn, lol.


    : It''s over for that bird.


    : Its lifespan was only a few minutes.


    : Not even minutes, more like a few seconds, lol.


    : Rip, bird.


    "H-Hey, we''re not done with our conversation¡ª"


    Something like that doesn''t even require me to summon a Shikigami. I can just shoot some magic and finish it off.


    I imagine an ice spear, materializing it above me, and launch it. I don''t need to be too precise with my aim¡­ If I''m faster than it can react, there''s no way it''ll dodge. And if I miss, I''ll just shoot fifty more at once next time.


    : Goodbye, bird.


    : Sad to see it go.


    : Anomaly neutralized, lol.


    : Is that really enough to solve it?


    : The monster''s at fault for showing up in front of an EX ranker.


    "W-We weren''t done talking¡ª"


    "It''s done."


    "Can you at least finish the call before you do that?"


    "It''s just more convenient to do it during the call rather than ending it and then starting again a few seconds later."


    "¡­I''ll post that the situation has been resolved on the website. Thanks."


    Crisis averted. And just like that, the magical anomaly in Shibuya Dungeon is resolved.


    "Oh, you''re still here?"


    Some of the guys who were glaring at me earlier are still standing around. They should really just stop being annoying streamers and head home already. I''m done with my work, so I''m seriously going home¡­ I wasn''t planning on working today anyway.


    : Can''t say anything now, huh, lol.


    : So what''s the plan for Aikasu now? No matter what they do, they''ll forever be remembered as the ones who got scared of Kisaragi.


    : They brought it on themselves, lol.


    : I would''ve already lost my temper, so Kisaragi''s mental strength is impressive.


    : Kisaragi has the strongest mentality, no doubt.


    : Aikasu should just delete their channel and disappear.


    Sigh¡­ What should I do tomorrow? I''m getting bored of only Shibuya and Hachioji Dungeons. Maybe it''s time to ignore the viewers for once and do a stream where I explore dungeons purely for fun. Since I started streaming, I haven''t been able to visit many dungeons across the country, and it''s really starting to frustrate me.


    After I got home and booted up my computer to do a casual chat stream, I saw a big headline featuring me and those annoying Aikasu guys. The title was something like, "EX Explorer Tsukasa Kisaragi and Troublemaker Streamers Get Into an Argument!?" Uh, we didn''t argue, though.


    Looking at SNS, I see a lot of people commenting on it, but honestly, I couldn''t care less about the kind of mindless graffiti people post online. I''ll just do a chat stream as usual.


    "Huh¡­ Are you all doing okay?"


    : The usual.


    Experience tales at m v|l e''-NovelFire.net


    : Why do you always suddenly start a chat stream out of nowhere?


    : He doesn''t have anyone to talk to, that''s why.


    : I don''t have anyone to talk to either, so this helps.


    : Oh look, it''s the internet celebrity himself.


    : Here''s the guy who''s trending again.


    : You''re on the news every day now, lol.


    : He stands out, for better or worse.


    "What''s this ''for better or worse''? I''m a streamer, so standing out is part of the job."


    : Nah, you stand out way more than most streamers.


    : All you do is stream, yet you get so much attention.


    : You don''t even appear on TV, but you''re everywhere.


    : Rough day today, huh?


    : Aikasu''s channel got suspended, lol.


    Oh, their account got suspended. Maybe it was because of their nuisance streaming¡­ or maybe it was because I sent a complaint to Shishijima-san. Yeah, probably the latter. Shishijima-san must''ve taken action. Letting dungeon explorers like that roam free would only cause more problems, so it''s no surprise.


    : Why are you always in the middle of some kind of trouble?


    I''d like to know that too.

 Chapter 97: School Days and Dungeon Ways

    "I have no idea how to start a business."


    "Well, that''s understandable."


    I was having lunch with Aizawa-san, talking about my future.


    After graduating high school, I planned to continue working as a dungeon streamer. Eventually, I wanted to establish an agency that would make it easier for dungeon streamers to operate, where I could also train newcomers and gradually expand. By doing so, I hoped to increase the population of dungeon explorers over the long term. I shared everything I was thinking with her.


    "I see. As someone who''s on the path to becoming the next top explorer, it might make sense for you to think about training newcomers. But that''s still something for the future, right? After all, I''m still here for now."


    "Well, yeah, but as an EX ranker, I can''t just ignore the current shortage of explorers."


    "Honestly, I''d hoped you''d be the next head of the Dungeon Explorers Association, but if you have something else you want to pursue, that''s probably better for you." Explore more adventures at m,v l''-NovelFire.net


    I feel bad for Aizawa-san, but after seeing her overworked like a salaryman in a black company, I have no desire to become the head of the association. If that''s my alternative, I''d rather start a business from scratch without any know-how and do something I actually want to do.


    "So, why did you go out of your way to meet me? You didn''t just come for career advice, right?"


    "Huh? No, I just came to visit and figured I''d get some advice while I was at it."


    "¡­Really? I didn''t think I was someone you admired so much."


    "No, you''re the most respectable explorer I know."


    I mean, my grandma is my grandma, and Kamishiro is¡­ well, you know. It might sound a bit rude, but by process of elimination, Aizawa-san is the only person I can really rely on.


    "I see¡­ Well, I guess I''ll have to act like a respectable adult then."


    "Ah, no need for that."


    "Isn''t that a bit cold?"


    What I expect from Aizawa-san is mentorship as an experienced explorer, not anything like family affection. Just keep things the way they are¡ªno need to change anything.


    The next day, I went to school as usual and sat in my usual seat at the corner of the classroom, reading a book. I hadn''t taken any job requests in September, so I''d been attending school regularly, but that wouldn''t last much longer. In fact, it was already October, so it was inevitable that I''d soon be flooded with requests.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa¡­ Reading again?"


    "Good morning. Isn''t reading something you should do all the time?"


    Asakawa greeted me, now wearing her long-sleeved uniform after the October wardrobe change. The short-sleeved season had felt particularly long this year, but maybe that was just my perception. The school uniform changes to short sleeves in June and back to long sleeves in October, and with August being summer vacation, the short-sleeve period is technically only three months.


    "It''s become normal to see you in class now, but you''re going to get busy again soon, right? That''s kind of sad."


    When I first started attending regularly, my classmates were pretty surprised, and no one was more shocked than the homeroom teacher. But after a week, it became normal for me to be there, and I went back to being just another background character. Even though I''m an EX-ranked explorer, I''m still an introverted loner, so no one really approaches me¡­ Sad, isn''t it?


    Well, Asakawa and Nonohara still come up and talk to me without caring about that stuff.


    The saying "Rumors last only seventy-five days" is true. Before summer break, when my status as an EX explorer was exposed, things got noisy at school, but now, apart from Asakawa and Nonohara, I''m back to being the typical quiet, isolated student.


    "The sports festival is coming up soon¡­ Are you going to participate, Tsukasa?"


    "Well¡­ Since I never know when work will come up, I probably won''t."


    "I see¡­ What about the school festival?"


    "It feels wrong to only participate in the festival without helping with the preparations, so I''d feel bad."


    "Ugh¡­ That''s disappointing."


    "Honestly, I''d love to enjoy the school events as a student, but¡­ it''s not that simple."


    Actually, I don''t want to participate in school events because I''m an introverted loner. Back in middle school, I had a terrible experience, just because I didn''t have any friends. It was so bad that I remember crying myself to sleep, wondering if life could get any harder.


    When I think about it now, before becoming an explorer, I was just a friendless, introverted misfit. My situation was really dire. If I didn''t have the talent for being an explorer, my life probably would''ve been over.


    "Hmm¡­ Well, in that case, why don''t we make some memories together while we can!"


    "Wait, what do you mean by making memories?"


    "Like the school trip! Isn''t there one coming up?"


    "Wait, you want me to participate in that?"


    School festivals and sports events at least give introverts like me some space to do their own thing. But a school trip? That''s a death sentence. Back in middle school, I was so miserable that I skipped the school trip entirely.


    "By the way, where does this school go for trips? Kyoto?"


    "Hawaii!"


    I vaguely remember hearing that¡­ or maybe I didn''t. I probably forgot because I was already planning on skipping it.


    "See? Doesn''t Hawaii sound fun? Everyone''s looking forward to it!"


    "Hawaii isn''t fun at all."


    "What!? Are you some kind of Hawaii hater!?"


    "¡­Nonohara, please don''t randomly create weird terms like ''Hawaii hater.''"


    What even is a "Hawaii hater?" I''m just stating a simple fact based on my experience.


    "Wait, so you''ve been to Hawaii before?"


    "Yeah, I''ve been. It was super boring."


    "Is that because you didn''t have many friends?"


    "Huh? How is that related?"


    It''s just boring, plain and simple. I don''t see why people think it''s so exciting. It''s actually surprising to me that there are people who want to go.


    "Wow, you really dislike Hawaii that much?"


    "I don''t hate it, it''s just not fun. All it is is a massive dungeon where big monsters appear in wide-open areas."


    "I''m talking about a normal trip to Hawaii! Not dungeon stuff!"


    "Oh¡­ Kisaragi, your head really is filled with nothing but dungeons."


    "Oh, I see¡­ you meant above ground." S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    So, they were talking about the regular Hawaii? I thought they meant the dungeon there, which is just a giant boss rush¡­ I was starting to feel like my sense of reality was completely out of sync with everyone else.


    Let me know if you need any more translations or further help!

 Chapter 98: The Submerged Depths of Nagoya

    "So, it''s Saturday... how''s everyone doing?"


    : Commuting to work.


    : On the train.


    : Cleaning my house.


    : Just lounging around.


    : Every day''s summer break for me, I''m invincible.


    : Days of the week don''t matter to a NEET.


    "For those commuting, good job. If you''re cleaning, make sure to finish before watching. If you''re lounging around, it''s the weekend, so relax and enjoy. For the NEETs, please head to the employment office on Monday."


    : Lol.


    : No way I''m going.


    : I''ll live off my parents forever!


    : Your parents'' money won''t last forever, you know.


    : Why are you streaming this early?


    : Is it a collab today?


    : It''s rare to see an unannounced stream.


    : Dude, it''s only 7 AM.


    As usual, I''m streaming a dungeon dive. Lately, it feels like all I do is work, go to school, or stream dungeon content. But, well, I enjoy it, so I guess it''s fine... it''s fun doing what you love.


    "Didn''t I announce it beforehand? I thought I did... Anyway, I''ll post something on social media real quick."


    : Forgetting things at that age already?


    : Are you talking about me?


    : Hey, old viewers, make sure to take care of your dementia.


    : Don''t underestimate dementia; you even forget that you forgot.


    : It doesn''t work like that, lol. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Alright, I posted it on SNS, so that''s handled. Still, it''s pretty quiet this early on a Saturday morning¡­ I''ve had more viewers when I stream late at night. Maybe everyone in Japan is turning into a night owl? I''m a bit of a night owl myself, but I can wake up early without any issues, so it''s no problem for me.


    "The reason I''m streaming so early today is¡­ I''m going to tackle a tricky dungeon, so I got myself ready."


    : Tricky dungeon?


    : There''s nothing tricky about Shibuya Dungeon.


    : Haven''t you basically already conquered it?


    As expected¡­ there are very few people here. Maybe word has spread that after a certain point, it''s impossible to explore further, which keeps even the locals away. Well, it''s not like this is my favorite dungeon, but still.


    "Ah, this is EX-ranker Tsukasa Kisaragi¡­ Mind if I enter?"


    "¡­EX!? Why on earth are you here!?"


    "I thought it''d be fun to stream this dungeon."


    "This dungeon!?"


    They''re really surprised... well, this is a dungeon where a few people visit each day at most, so I guess it''s understandable. Even so, they''ve got work at the entrance to the dungeon, so they should hang in there. Maybe they''re on the night shift, though.


    After getting permission to stream inside the dungeon, I made my way to the entrance. Already, I could feel the dampness in the air.


    "So, today, I''ll be exploring the Nagoya Dungeon."


    : What?


    : Huh?


    : Are you insane?


    : Why would you go to that dungeon, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Isn''t this what the viewers wanted?


    : Weren''t they always asking you to go deeper into the Nagoya Dungeon? You''re so kind, Kisaragi!


    : No, that''s not how it works. Your journey continues at m v|l-e''-NovelFire.net


    : Wait a minute!


    : My brain can''t keep up.


    : Why would you willingly dive into such a ridiculous dungeon this early in the morning?


    "Seems like it''s a popular choice."


    : Get your eyes checked.


    : You need to get your head checked, not your eyes.


    : See a psychiatrist, man.


    The Nagoya Dungeon is absolutely deserted. The main reason is the structure past the 11th floor¡ªstarting from the upper levels, everything is submerged. I''ll say it outright: no matter how strong a human becomes, we can''t breathe underwater. Magic can do a lot, but it can''t reconfigure human anatomy. So, as long as humans remain human, we can''t fully conquer the Nagoya Dungeon.


    "I usually avoid the Nagoya Dungeon because it''s a solo dungeon by nature. But, when you want to explore alone after a string of collabs, it''s perfect."


    : I can''t even get in there!


    : This is a sign of mental breakdown.


    : Why do you think you can conquer a flooded dungeon?


    : Please become a legend by conquering the Nagoya Dungeon.


    : Are you generating oxygen as you go?


    Even though everyone''s saying it''s impossible, they seem curious about how I''ll tackle the Nagoya Dungeon. Well, that''s probably why they''re watching¡ªit''s all about finding out how to beat the dungeon, right?


    The Nagoya Dungeon''s top levels aren''t flooded, so you''d think more explorers would give it a try¡­ but that doesn''t seem to be the case. I guess the fact that you can''t go past the upper levels because of the water puts people off.


    The Nagoya Dungeon is near Nagoya Port, so it''s easily accessible via the Nagoya City Subway. But despite the convenience, it''s still not popular. I''d say it''s better than some remote places, like Wakkanai, at least.


    "Here we are, at the stairs leading to the 11th floor."


    : I can already see water, though.


    : The stairs are submerged halfway down.


    : Wow, that''s a beautiful water surface.


    : Hurry and dive in, Kisaragi!


    "Alright, let''s go."


    Today, I plan to reach at least the 35th floor¡­ According to the viewers, I apparently hold the current record for the deepest dive in the Nagoya Dungeon at 34 floors. However, no one really believes that, so the 10th floor is generally considered the farthest anyone''s gone. That''s why I''m going to record my dive today and prove I''ve reached the real deepest level.


    "Tenko, come forth."


    I summoned Tenko, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. She''s a stunning beauty with pastel blue hair and deep, ocean-like blue eyes. She''s essential for conquering the Nagoya Dungeon.


    : Wow.


    : Another beautiful summon.


    : He always summons beautiful women, huh?


    : Is this a harem?


    : Damn¡­ I think I''ll start learning Shikigami magic for my own harem.


    : Good luck with that, lol.


    "Do you seek my power?"


    "Yes¡­ Today''s going to be a long dive."


    "As you wish."


    Tenko is based on the Taoist goddess Mazu, worshipped along the Chinese coast. She''s prayed to for safe voyages and successful fishing. In Japan, her role is similar to the deity Ototachibana-hime. As the Shikigami I''ve created, Tenko''s ability is to protect me from water. In other words, the submerged Nagoya Dungeon is no exception to her power.


    With Tenko''s magic supporting me, I step into the water that has flooded the stairs. My body sinks into the water, but I can still breathe, and the water doesn''t hinder me.


    : What''s happening?


    : Stop using methods only Kisaragi can use!


    : He''s unstoppable, lol.


    : No wonder he can conquer it.


    : At this point, water is meaningless.


    : Now I don''t get why he stopped at the 34th floor.


    : How are you breathing?


    I don''t know either¡­ Thanks to Tenko, the water isn''t affecting me at all, but there shouldn''t be any oxygen down here. Yet, I can still breathe¡­ When I asked Tenko how it works, she just smiled, so I haven''t given it much thought, but I''m starting to wonder how this is even possible. Maybe it''s some mysterious power at work because I''ve summoned something divine into my body.

 Chapter 99: Into the Abyss

    "¡­Can you hear me?"


    : We can hear you.


    : A little distant, but we can hear you.


    : What''s going on?


    : I''m not sure, but it seems cool, so I''ll take it.


    : Can''t wait, just move ahead already!


    Thinking about it calmly, I realize that I''m probably the only person who has ever had the chance to carefully observe the underwater scenery of the Nagoya Dungeon beyond the 11th floor. I''m starting to feel a little excited.


    "I''m not sure if it''s because we''re underwater or because we''re still in the upper levels¡­ Either way, there aren''t many monsters here. The only ones I see are small fish."


    : Small fish?


    : Those fish look like they''re tens of centimeters long¡­ Are they still considered small fish?


    : How does the lighting work in a submerged dungeon?


    : Won''t the deeper levels have issues with water pressure and lack of light?


    : You mentioned water pressure, but is that not a problem for you?


    : Well, he''s been down to the 34th floor before, so it should be fine, right?


    Yeah¡­ with the water pressure, it''s absolutely impossible for normal people to dive this deep. In my case, Tenko cuts off any effects related to water, so it''s not an issue. If I had to face the water pressure, I''d be crushed to death.


    "But, surprisingly, the human body is quite resilient. If the pressure increases slowly enough for the body to adjust, humans can withstand up to about 30,000 hectopascals. That''s 30 atmospheres."


    : No way!


    : Are you serious?


    : 30 atmospheres¡­ that''s equivalent to about 290 meters deep in the ocean, right?


    : Even with the slow adjustment condition, I didn''t know humans could handle that.


    : I had no idea.


    : Is my body really that strong? No way.


    : People with low confidence in their bodies, take note!


    Well, the condition about the pressure increasing slowly enough is pretty unrealistic, but it does make you realize that the human body isn''t as fragile as you''d think.


    I''m not sure where the light is coming from, but at the 11th floor, it''s bright enough to see everything around. I can see seaweed swaying gently, and there are some monsters visible in the distance.


    Suddenly, a question pops into my head¡­ If I were to sprint full-speed in this state, how fast would I go? Since I''m unaffected by the water, would I still move at full speed? And what about my magic¡ªhow does it work underwater? I''m curious to find out.


    : Whoa, you''re fast!


    : Stop accelerating without warning!


    : I''m getting dizzy.


    : That''s terrifying!


    : Please stop speeding up so suddenly!


    : Don''t brake so hard!


    : Even roller coasters don''t ignore inertia like that!


    : What''s up with your body, man? S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "¡­I can run just fine underwater. Now, let''s try magic."


    : Shooting beams underwater? You''re insane.


    : Poor fish¡­ This makes me sad.


    : Let''s have a moment of silence for the fish that died for the sake of science.


    : They''re just monsters, you know.


    : So, can you really operate underwater as normal?


    : This is OP¡­ Just head straight to the lowest floor!


    : You''re the only one who can do this, so might as well reach the bottom.


    : Yeah, I don''t think anyone else could conquer this dungeon, so you should go as deep as possible.


    Looks like magic works fine, too.


    However, I won''t be able to set the floor on fire with my usual fire spells, and I probably can''t just shoot electric currents everywhere to carpet-bomb the place. So, my combat options will be limited to physical sword attacks and beam-type spells focusing on speed¡­ I''ll probably have to rely on my Shikigami, too.


    "Well, I''m not interested in the upper levels, so let''s move ahead quickly."


    : Didn''t you already sprint once?


    : I''ll go get some motion sickness medicine.


    : I''ll just look away from the screen.


    : I''m taking a quick break.


    : I''m running away because I don''t want to puke.


    : I''ll keep watching intently, though.


    : Why would you willingly walk into such a nightmare? Is this curiosity or fearlessness?


    This happens a lot on my streams. Dungeons are just too big, so you have to move fast to get through them. Well, we''re still in the upper levels, so it''s not that vast yet, but once we get to the lower levels, it''s a different story.


    Even with the best camera setup, it can''t keep up with me when I''m moving at full speed, so I''ll probably have to let Tenko handle it. Shikigami can move with me without falling behind, so it shouldn''t be a problem¡­ hopefully.


    "Hehe¡­ Everyone, please bear with me, alright?"


    : Is she the camera operator now?


    : If my cameraman looked this good, I''d die of joy.


    : She''s too beautiful.


    : Wait, Kisaragi conjured up this beauty just from his imagination? His fantasy powers are so strong, I don''t think I can compete.


    : Fantasy powers, lol.


    : I mean, yeah, Shikigami are basically projections of his imagination, but wow, the way that''s phrased¡­


    You''re not wrong, so I won''t deny it. When I was creating the Twelve Heavenly Generals, I imagined them all as beautiful goddesses, especially Tenko, Tenkuu, and Kijin. It''s not my fault! I mean, when you''re creating a goddess, wouldn''t you want her to be stunning? The inner being that possesses the body is separate, but the outer appearance is totally my personal preference.


    That''s why all the female members of the Twelve Heavenly Generals are well-endowed¡­ I won''t go into details, but let''s just say that''s my taste. Or rather, it''s a biological instinct I can''t fight. Okay, I tried to make it sound cool, but yeah, I like girls with big chests.


    : When you''re zooming around underwater, it looks so surreal on camera.


    : Honestly, it just looks like Kisaragi is swimming really fast.


    : Is he a killer whale?


    : Seaweed.


    : Just because you''re in Nagoya Dungeon doesn''t mean you should spam seaweed jokes.


    : Seaweed multiplies like crazy, huh? I put one in my goldfish tank, and suddenly I had ten.


    : Who asked?


    : Why are we even talking about seaweed?


    Step by step, I find the stairs leading to the 12th and then the 13th floors. The further down I go, the darker it gets. By the time I reached the 34th floor last time, I could barely see a meter ahead of me¡­ I hope the camera can capture this properly.


    I don''t have any spells that can light up the dark, but I should be able to manipulate my magic to help with visibility. I should also prepare a few water-adapted mythical creatures or spirits as backup options. Honestly, it might be fun to break my usual style and summon mythological beings from other cultures, like legendary beasts or fairies from overseas.


    : Kisaragi''s the only one who can conquer this dungeon, but if he does, it''ll mean he single-handedly completed it, right?


    : Dude, isn''t that obvious?


    : Are we just repeating the same point over and over?


    : Just setting foot beyond the 11th floor of Nagoya Dungeon makes you a monster.


    : At this point, it feels like we''re dealing with something beyond an explorer. Enjoy exclusive content from m-v l''-NovelFire.net


    : This is a case where no one else can even try. It''s only Kisaragi who can do it.


    : What a broken dungeon.


    : I live near Nagoya Dungeon, and honestly, I''m hoping that once Kisaragi conquers it, the water will drain out or something.


    : Do you think this is a video game?


    I''d be thrilled if that happened too.


    After all, it''s kind of a waste that I''m the only one who gets to see this dungeon. Maybe there''s some kind of hidden mechanism to drain the water. I''ll have to keep an eye out for it.

 Chapter 100: Journey with a Glow Stick

    As I continue walking underwater, I start to feel like I''m in an open-world fantasy game. Well, rather than a beautiful, sunlit sea with glittering rays, it feels like I''m descending into a world that''s getting darker and colder, with a more brutal atmosphere. It reminds me of that deep-sea exploration game, the one that was said to be scarier than most horror games.


    And, seeing this for myself now, even with some light still left, this sight definitely stirs up a primal sense of fear.


    : I''m getting chills.


    : It feels like we''re just sinking deeper and deeper into the ocean¡­ it''s terrifying.


    : This is too scary. Please talk more, Kisaragi-kun!


    : No way. I can''t handle this kind of stuff.


    : I''d rather deal with ghosts or zombies. This is raw, primal fear.


    "¡­This is kind of funny, so can I just stay quiet for a while?"


    : No!


    : Don''t enjoy this!


    : Is this payback for all the times we teased you?


    : This is unforgivable!


    : Please, keep talking, I''m begging you! This is terrifying.


    : The sea looks mystical, but it''s all an illusion¡­ This is seriously scary.


    It''s amusing to see viewers who are usually so tough and lively in the comments actually getting scared this time, so I think I''ll keep quiet for a bit and enjoy this.


    I''m currently running through the 25th floor. The light is starting to dim, and my visibility is becoming seriously limited. The camera is still being carried by Tenko, following me as I move, but it''s getting to the point where ignoring the monsters along the way is becoming tedious due to their increasing numbers.


    "Sagojo."


    I needed something that could move freely underwater¡­ Initially, I thought of a kappa, but that didn''t seem impactful enough, and honestly, summoning just a kappa wouldn''t be very useful in combat, so I decided to borrow the name instead.


    : Sagojo!?


    : Isn''t that a kappa?


    : This doesn''t look like the Sagojo I know.


    : Where''s the kappa!?


    : The appearance is completely different, lol.


    : Kisaragi-kun, do you even know who Sagojo is? Did you just make this up on the spot?


    : No, this is actually a pretty accurate version of Sagojo.


    : How!? This isn''t a kappa at all!


    The Sagojo I summoned is a reptilian humanoid, wearing a skull necklace and wielding a trident. Its face resembles a crocodile''s, with sharp fangs visible as it swims effortlessly through the water.


    The people commenting that it''s inaccurate are probably thinking of the version of Sagojo from Journey to the West, while those saying it''s accurate might be more familiar with the original depiction in Xuanzang''s Great Tang Records on the Western Regions. Yeah, I admit that using the name Sagojo is a bit confusing. Experience new stories on m v|l e''-NovelFire.net


    What I actually summoned is closer to Jinsha Taisho (the Deep Sand General), but if I summoned the actual Deep Sand General, something as overwhelming as when I summoned the Great Owatatsumi God would probably appear, so I deliberately lowered the power level by naming it Sagojo. Though its appearance was my creation, the entity inside is still something I''ve summoned.


    It''s not as stable as the Twelve Heavenly Generals, but I think I''ve gotten pretty good at pulling this off.


    : This is terrifying.


    : Kisaragi-kun''s summoned Sagojo is scary, and the monsters coming out of the sea are scary, too.


    : What is even happening in this stream?


    : Isn''t this always how it is?


    : Yeah, this is typical Kisaragi-kun madness, lol. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Kisaragi really can do anything.


    : Can you just push all the way to the bottom of Nagoya Dungeon now?


    : How many floors does the bottom of Nagoya Dungeon have?


    : How many did Sapporo have again?


    : About 80.


    : Where are we now?


    : 26.


    : Isn''t that way too far?


    As I continue running at a decent pace through the 26th floor, a shark about two meters long suddenly appears and charges at me. Sagojo immediately reacts, overtaking me and slicing the shark in two with his trident. I mean, how do you "slice" with a trident? That doesn''t make any sense¡­ or maybe I shouldn''t think too hard about it?


    Unlike the Shikigami I fully create myself, the ones I summon sometimes act beyond my expectations. In this case, I didn''t think Sagojo could swim faster than me, even in water. With this kind of speed, reaching the 34th floor will be a breeze.


    "And here we are¡ªthe highest floor reached so far in Nagoya Dungeon."


    : You mean your highest floor, right?


    : It''s so dark.


    : You can''t see anything beyond this point.


    : Can you even move forward in this?


    : No way.


    : This isn''t a dungeon that humans can conquer.


    : Wait, does this mean that with Tenko''s power, Kisaragi-kun could dive into the Earth''s deepest oceans too?


    : No way¡­ We''re entering a new age for humanity.


    : For real?


    "¡­Can I just move on now?"


    Why would I be sent to explore the deep sea? I prefer dungeon exploration, thank you very much. People talk about the deep sea as a mystery, but dungeons are just as much a mystery to humanity.


    As some comments mentioned, now that we''re at the 34th floor, it''s so dark that I can barely see ahead. It''s still somewhat manageable, but at this rate, by the time I reach the 40th floor, it''ll be pitch black.


    "I''ll try lighting up my sword with magic as we move ahead."


    : Kisaragi-kun with a glowing sword¡ªit''s basically a lightsaber!


    : It''s less a lightsaber and more like those lights at construction sites, lol.


    : Lol.


    : That''s just a glow stick, man.


    : Don''t call it a glow stick, haha!


    : Now that you mention it, it does look like one of those guiding lights.


    "¡­How''s this?"


    : Why can you change the color!?


    : Don''t make it red, lol.


    : That''s literally a guiding stick!


    : How is this even possible?


    : Turn it into a rainbow-colored glow!


    : Make it a gaming sword!


    You guys sure ask for a lot¡­ If I made it rainbow-colored, it''d look more like a glow stick from a concert than a "gaming sword," you know?


    "How about this?"


    : Stop making it orange like a UO glow stick!


    : It''s way too bright!


    : He can really do anything, lol.


    : The fact that his first thought was a UO glow stick shows just how much of an otaku Kisaragi is.


    : He''s doing this on purpose, right?


    Of course, I''m doing it on purpose. The viewers seemed to enjoy it more than I expected, so I''m just having fun. If I were serious about visibility, white would be enough. But when you mention guiding sticks, gaming lights, and glow sticks, the otaku in me just has to go along with it, right?


    Anyway, enough playing around¡­ I''ll stick with white for proper visibility.


    : Oh, we''re back to the glow stick.


    : Stop calling it a glow stick, lol.


    : Yeah, for visibility, white is the best choice.


    : So, you''re finally moving forward, huh?


    : After all that playing around, how can you be serious now, haha?


    : But the deep sea is terrifying.


    : We''re not in the deep sea yet, though.


    : There''s still a little light left.


    "Based on my prediction, by the time we hit the 40th floor, there will be no more light left. That''s why I need to have this glow stick ready."


    : We''re really calling it a glow stick now¡­


    : Why does he sound so happy about this?


    : The fact that Kisaragi-kun is having fun with glow stick jokes is hilarious.


    : You''re having a blast at the highest floor, lol.


    : Let''s go even deeper!


    Since the viewers are so eager, I''ll keep descending into this deep, dark world¡­ into an unknown realm where no one knows what awaits.

 Chapter 101: Descent into Darkness: Unearthing the Legends

    As I continued walking through the depths, it grew darker with each passing step. As expected, by the time I reached the 40th floor, the surrounding area was completely shrouded in darkness, and without any source of light, I wouldn''t have been able to see anything. Though I''m unaffected, the way sound travels underwater is different from on land, which feels a little unsettling.


    That said, the speed of sound in water is about five times faster than in air, so it''s not like I can''t hear anything.


    One small comfort is that, unlike the real deep sea, the dungeon''s floor is solid beneath my feet. I don''t have the sensation of sinking into a bottomless abyss¡ªjust walking through darkness.


    : If you''re thalassophobic, just looking at this screen would make you lose it.


    : Even without thalassophobia, this is terrifying.


    : Don''t underestimate thalassophobia!


    : Those with actual thalassophobia have probably already quit watching this stream.


    : Isn''t everyone a little bit thalassophobic?


    : The difference between mild and severe cases is the real issue here.


    : I''ve played deep-sea exploration games before, and this feels just as terrifying.


    : Tenko''s holding the camera, so this really does feel like a third-person game.


    : But the fact that you''re walking underwater with a glowing rod is a bit funny, lol.


    Just like how some people have rare allergies, there are also those with rare phobias. Thalassophobia is one of those things that ordinary people might not understand, but those afflicted claim it can trigger fear without even being near the ocean. People are fascinating.


    Not that I''m completely fearless myself. Walking through a pitch-black sea like this does stir some primal fear. But with the chat and Tenko occasionally talking to me, it doesn''t feel that lonely. The fear of the unknown, not knowing what might emerge from the darkness¡ªthat''s just part of a regular day in a dungeon, so I''m not too bothered.


    : How does Sagojo''s vision even work?


    : I have no idea.


    : He suddenly dashed off into the dark and came back holding a magic stone, lol.


    : How does he even detect things in this deep-sea environment?


    : Probably by instinct, lol.


    : Stop making things up.


    : Isn''t he sensing it through magic?


    Even I don''t know. It''s probably something to do with the water currents or something?


    I may have created the basic structure of Sagojo, but I have no idea what the being I summoned is actually doing.


    "Huh... a shell?"


    After walking around with Sagojo for a while, a giant shell appeared at the edge of my vision. Well, technically, I''m the one who approached it since it wasn''t moving.


    : That shell looks empty.


    : Looks like something already ate it.


    : Why would something get eaten underwater, lol?


    : RIP shell, even in a dungeon it''s just a snack.


    "No, maybe it didn''t have anything inside to begin with? There''s no sign of it being eaten, and monsters in the mid-levels aren''t supposed to attack each other..."


    Just as I was saying that, the shell suddenly moved. What? There''s nothing inside, so why is it moving? As I leaned in to check, the upper part of the shell clamped down, trying to crush me, but Sagojo stepped in and stopped it with one hand.


    : A shell monster with no body, seriously?


    : That''s not even a living creature anymore.


    : Dude, this is a world where golems exist, why are you surprised?


    : Fair point.


    : It''s a dungeon¡ªof course non-living things can move.


    : Why is it covering itself with a shell when there''s nothing inside?


    : No idea, lol.


    The shell tried its hardest to close, but Sagojo was far stronger and it couldn''t budge. When it finally gave up and swung open wide, Sagojo slammed his trident into the lower shell, cracking it. He then smashed it completely, shattering the shell into pieces.


    After twitching once, the shattered shell crumbled away like sand, disappearing into the water.


    "¡­Well, that turned out more brutish than I intended."


    : Isn''t that your creation, though?


    : Isn''t that your Shikigami?


    : Really¡­?


    : RIP shell, complete defeat.


    : Guys, remember this is only the mid-levels. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Kisaragi-kun struggling in the mid-levels? That''s never going to happen.


    That''s true. Still, this mid-level area is uncharted territory, and I''d prefer to take my time exploring it. I''m genuinely interested in all the monsters that show up and want to explore more leisurely.


    "Well, let''s keep moving."


    : There''s something on the ground.


    : A magic stone?


    : No, Sagojo is holding the magic stone.


    : Just a rock, probably.


    "¡­This looks like an ore, actually. It''s really small, though, so even if we extracted it, there wouldn''t be much of it."


    On the edge of the small stone I picked up, I could see a faint metallic sheen.


    Now that I think about it, there were rumors that the interior of Nagoya Dungeon contained vast quantities of rare metals. I don''t know if that''s based on actual explorers or if they found something similar in the upper levels, but it''s a known rumor. This means there''s a chance I might discover some rare metal down here.


    : So the rare metals in Nagoya Dungeon were real?


    : Wait, I thought that was just an urban legend, like the Tokugawa hidden treasure!


    : I seriously thought it was a myth.


    : How did that turn into an urban legend so fast?


    : A few decades is enough for it to become one.


    : If you find a huge stash of it, wouldn''t it be more valuable than magic stones?


    : Deep-level magic stones are worth more, though.


    : Then there''s no need to carry the rare metals back, right?


    : There totally is!


    Well, rare metals are incredibly valuable since they''re used in everything from cars and computers to smartphones and more. It''s definitely worth bringing some back, but there are many different types of rare metals. I''m no expert, so I can''t tell what type of ore this is just by looking at it.


    "If I find a larger piece, I''ll consider bringing it back. For now, let''s focus on clearing the dungeon."


    : The Dungeon Association must be freaking out right now.


    : Freaking out, but only Kisaragi-kun can get in here, lol.


    : Haha, true.


    : Can''t they just dive in with proper equipment?


    : Dude, this is a dungeon. How are they going to handle the monsters?


    : Also, how would diving equipment even deal with the water pressure?


    : Nope, guess not.


    : That''s why Nagoya Dungeon isn''t a place for normal humans to explore.


    Experience tales with m v|l -NovelFire.net


    : What about Kisaragi-kun?


    : He''s not human, obviously.


    : Everyone treating Kisaragi-kun like he''s not human is hilarious, lol.


    : Yeah, clearly a superhuman at this point.

 Chapter 102: In the Depths of Darkness

    "Can you see this...?"


    : Kind of.


    : I can see Kisaragi-kun clearly, but the dungeon is pitch black.


    : Nope, this is way too much for me.


    : This must be a nightmare for anyone with a fear of darkness.


    : It''s not easy even if you don''t have a phobia.


    : If you have a fear of darkness or claustrophobia, you probably shouldn''t be a dungeon explorer.


    : But this isn''t just any dungeon¡ªit''s a live stream!


    I''ve made it to the 45th floor, and the only light I can see now comes from the sword I''m holding. At this point, no ordinary human could see more than a few centimeters ahead. My sword is glowing like a fluorescent light, but even that''s starting to feel insufficient.


    Thanks to Tenko''s ability, I''m unaffected by the water pressure. Still, I can''t even begin to imagine how intense the pressure is at this depth. It''s said that at depths of over 200 meters, sunlight only accounts for 0.1% of what reaches the surface. That means here, at the 45th floor, the pressure must be at least 20 atmospheres¡ªroughly 20,000 hectopascals. Hard to really grasp those numbers.


    Then again, considering some humans can free-dive over 100 meters, maybe it''s not entirely impossible¡ªat least for a few exceptional people.


    "Is this still broadcasting...?" Your journey continues with m v|l--NovelFire.net


    : Whoa, Tenko-san just popped up, and I got startled.


    : Her beautiful face in close-up is going to give me a heart attack.


    : The camera''s showing a bit too much beauty, lol.


    : Camera-san (cause of underwater mobility).


    : Yep, we can see you.


    : It''s a little dark, but Tenko-san is definitely visible.


    "Could you guys stop drooling over someone else''s Shikigami in the comments?"


    : You''re the one who made her beautiful.


    : Come on, we''re just guys.


    : In such a dark and scary place, we''re allowed a little bit of comfort, aren''t we?


    : Exactly!


    : More screen time for the beauty, please!


    : Kisaragi-kun should take over the camera and focus on Tenko-san.


    Sure, I made her beautiful, but who wouldn''t want to make something aesthetically pleasing when creating a vessel for a divine being? I mean, I would''ve been fine with a monstrous form, but since I was summoning something, it felt right to give it a nice appearance... Also, yeah, I admit, as a guy, I thought a beautiful form would be better. Sorry, I''ll own up to that.


    While I was checking the camera and reading the comments, Sagojo was off doing his thing, swimming around and hunting monsters. I can''t see much in this deep-sea environment anymore, so I''m relying on him. It''d be nice if I could somehow share his vision.


    "Isn''t it possible?"


    "Wait, it is?"


    "Well... It depends on how you use your powers, doesn''t it?"


    Maybe I''ll give it a shot. Given that I can''t see anything down here, it''d be great if sharing Sagojo''s vision let me see what he sees. It might be a bit awkward, though, since it''s not my own viewpoint.


    Since I can communicate with my Shikigami mentally, maybe I can extend that to sharing vision... Can I? S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : What''s he doing?


    : Just move forward already!


    : When you go quiet, it''s scarier, so say something.


    : Don''t go silent in the deep sea, please.


    : Moving forward might be even scarier, though.


    "Oh, I did it."


    Not quite, though. Instead of sharing Sagojo''s vision, it feels more like I''m sharing his perception. In short, I can now see the world the way Sagojo does.


    It feels like an incredibly overpowered ability, but having all this information flooding into my head is nauseating, like wearing glasses with the wrong prescription. I won''t be able to maintain this for long. However, it does allow me to quickly get a sense of my surroundings, even if I''m not seeing the bright world I had imagined.


    Instead, I''m perceiving things like heat sources or magic signatures¡ªsomething along those lines.


    "This isn''t going to work for long, so I''ll keep moving by touch. The screen might stay dark, but I''m progressing."


    : Aren''t you going to map the place out?


    "Why would I bother mapping a place no one else can enter? Even if I tried, it''s way too dark to make an accurate map."


    Mapping out a dungeon sounds nice, but it''s not like in games where the layout is neat and organized. I''d have to estimate everything, and in this darkness, it''s impossible.


    I can sense where Sagojo is since we''re connected through magic, so I know roughly where the monsters are. That''s good enough.


    "''Kijin''."


    "Did you call for me, master?"


    "Uh... yeah."


    It throws me off when she answers so casually like that.


    : Oh, she''s here again.


    : Is this going to be a regular thing?


    : Her low energy is kind of unusual.


    : Is it because we''re underwater?


    : Wait, how is Kijin fine underwater?


    : She''s a Shikigami, duh (probably).


    : If Kisaragi-kun''s fine, then the Shikigami are fine too.


    : Kisaragi-kun is only fine because of his Shikigami, so maybe they''re using their powers to survive underwater?


    "Still, this is quite the strange dungeon you''ve entered."


    "Could you not call it strange...? Wait, can you see around us?"


    "Hmm? The surroundings? Yes, of course."


    What? How can she see? Even Sagojo is just following magic traces, yet Kijin can see clearly? But I don''t want to borrow her vision again¡ªit makes me feel queasy.


    "Support Sagojo, would you?"


    "That crocodile with the trident, swimming around wildly?"


    "Yeah."


    "Tenko, I''ll take over guarding our master, so go help that maniac."


    "Oh dear... Master, must you summon such a reckless creature?"


    : Lol.


    : Kijin dishing out insults like it''s nothing.


    : Isn''t Kijin supposed to be the leader of the Twelve Heavenly Generals? Why is she getting roasted?


    : Maybe Byakko and Seiryu were also roasting her behind the scenes...


    Guys, seriously, get along. You''re both my Shikigami, after all.


    Kijin, stop complaining and just go help Sagojo. I''ve got Tenko with me, so I''m good here. Honestly, if I''m going to get support underwater, I''d prefer Tenko anyway, so Kijin, get going.

 Chapter 103: Chasing the Dream of an Underwater City

    "As we keep going deeper from the 34th floor, it''s getting darker and darker. Just as I expected, by the time I reached the 40th floor, everything around me was shrouded in darkness. Without any light, it would be impossible to see anything. The only light left is coming from the sword I''m holding, which I''ve turned into a sort of fluorescent light.


    Although I don''t personally feel the effects, the way sound travels underwater is different from on land, so it''s a bit disorienting. Water transmits sound about five times faster than air, so you can still hear things, but it feels different. Fortunately, because this is a dungeon, the ground beneath me is stable.


    Unlike the real deep sea, I don''t feel like I''m falling endlessly into a bottomless abyss, but just walking through complete darkness."


    : This would give anyone with thalassophobia a heart attack.


    : Even without a fear of the ocean, this is terrifying.


    : Thalassophobia is no joke, man.


    : People with that fear probably already noped out of this stream.


    : Honestly, I feel like everyone has a mild fear of the ocean, at least.


    : It''s the extreme cases that are really intense.


    : I''ve played games where you explore the deep sea, and yeah, they''re terrifying, just like this.


    : With Tenko-san holding the camera, it really feels like watching a third-person game.


    : But seeing you walking around underwater with a glowing sword is kind of funny.


    There are all sorts of phobias out there, just like there are strange allergies people have. Thalassophobia¡ªfear of the ocean¡ªis hard for the average person to understand, but I''ve heard that even looking at the ocean can freak people out. Humanity''s diversity is amazing.


    That said, it''s not like I''m entirely immune to fear. As I walk through this pitch-black underwater world, I can feel a natural sense of unease. However, the comment section and Tenko occasionally talking to me keeps the loneliness at bay. The fear of something lurking in the darkness? Well, that''s just a typical day in the dungeon for me.


    : Hey, how''s Sagojo able to see?


    : No clue, lol.


    : He just swims off into the dark and brings back magic stones.


    : How does he even sense anything in this deep sea?


    : Vibes?


    : Stop making things up, lol.


    : Maybe he senses magic or something.


    Even I don''t know. Maybe he''s detecting changes in the water flow?


    I mean, I did create the basic form of Sagojo, but whatever the entity I summoned is doing, I don''t fully understand it either. Find exclusive stories on m_v l|e-NovelFire.net S~ea??h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Huh... is that a shell?"


    : That shell''s empty, isn''t it?


    : Looks like it''s been eaten.


    : How does something get eaten underwater, lol?


    : RIP shell dude, even in the dungeon, you''re just food.


    "No, maybe it never had anything inside to begin with? There''s no sign it was eaten, and the monsters here shouldn''t prey on each other..."


    Just as I said that, the shell suddenly started moving. Wait, why is it moving if there''s nothing inside? As I peered into the shell, it tried to slam shut on me, but Sagojo darted in and caught it with one hand.


    : A shell monster that moves on its own? For real?


    : It''s not even alive, lol.


    : It''s a dungeon; golems exist, so why not?


    : That''s fair.


    : I still don''t get why it''s moving with no insides.


    : Who knows? lol


    The shell tried its best to close, but Sagojo''s strength was too much for it. After a moment, it gave up and opened wide. Sagojo then smashed his trident into the lower half of the shell, cracking it before pulverizing it into pieces. The shattered shell twitched once before dissolving into dust.


    "...That was way more brute force than I expected."


    : Dude, you made him, remember?


    : He''s your Shikigami, lol.


    : RIP shell monster.


    : Let''s not forget, this is still only the mid-levels.


    : There''s no way Kisaragi-kun is going to struggle in the mid-levels.


    Well, that''s true. But since these mid-level floors are unexplored, I want to take my time and examine everything. Every monster I encounter is interesting, and I''d love to explore them all thoroughly.


    "Anyway, let''s keep moving forward."


    : Something''s on the ground.


    : Is that a magic stone?


    : Nah, Sagojo''s already carrying the magic stone.


    : Looks like just a rock.


    "This... looks like an ore. It''s tiny, so even if I extracted it, there wouldn''t be much, but there''s definitely some metallic sheen to it."


    There were rumors that the Nagoya Dungeon was full of rare metals. I don''t know if someone who''s actually explored here started that rumor, or if they found traces of it in the upper levels. Either way, it seems like there''s some truth to it. So I might just come across some rare metals deeper down.


    : So the rare metals in the Nagoya Dungeon are real, huh?


    : Wait, I thought that was just a myth, like Tokugawa''s buried treasure?


    : I honestly thought it was just an urban legend.


    : It''s a little early for it to be an urban legend, don''t you think?


    : Give it a few decades, and anything can turn into one.


    : If you find a big enough chunk, you could sell it for more than a magic stone.


    : A deep-level magic stone would still sell for more.


    : Then why even bother with rare metals, lol.


    Well, rare metals are valuable since they''re used in everything from cars to computers and smartphones. Still, I don''t know enough to identify what kind of ore this is just by looking at it.


    "If I find something bigger, I''ll consider bringing it back. For now, the focus is on clearing the dungeon."


    : The dungeon association must be freaking out, lol.


    : Freak out all they want, Kisaragi-kun''s the only one who can explore this place.


    : LMAO.


    : What if someone in full diver gear tries?


    : This is a dungeon, bro. What about the monsters?


    : Not to mention, how would they deal with the water pressure?


    : Yeah, that''s not happening.


    : That''s why Nagoya Dungeon isn''t meant for regular humans.


    : What about Kisaragi-kun?


    : He''s not human, clearly.


    : Lol, at this point, he''s just a superhuman.


    "Anyway, I haven''t bumped into anything, so it seems like finding these rare metals is a bit out of my reach right now."


    Even so, it''s funny how this place still feels like a proper dungeon despite being in complete darkness. The ground is stable, almost like concrete. If I somehow lit up this entire area, I wonder if it''d look like an ancient city. That''d be a cool discovery. I love stuff like that.


    "Let''s keep moving forward and chase after the dream of an underwater city, shall we?"


    : What''s that supposed to mean, lol?


    : Stop making up random settings.


    : Your thought process is all over the place, man.

 Chapter 104: The Sky Below, The Sea Above

    "Ha?": Huh?


    : ???


    : What the hell is this?


    : ????????


    : What''s going on?


    : This makes no sense.


    As I descended the stairs from the 59th to the 60th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon, the water suddenly vanished. Completely baffled, I turned around to see that, as if the world had flipped upside down, the water surface was now rippling above me, defying gravity.


    I''ve explored countless dungeons, but I''ve never experienced anything like this. My mind went blank. The comment section is filled with question marks, and I''m pretty sure everyone watching stopped thinking at the same time.


    "...What the heck is going on here?"


    : I seriously have no idea.


    : This is the first time I''ve seen Kisaragi-kun this confused.


    : Well, yeah, if the water''s floating above you¡­


    : Is there no gravity?


    "There is gravity¡­ Tenko?"


    ''...There''s no water pressure, and air is present. It seems we''ve left the ocean behind.''


    "No, that''s not what I meant."


    It doesn''t look like staying on the stairs will answer any questions, so I guess I''ll keep moving forward. Even though we''ve exited the water, it''s still dark around here, and I don''t like it.


    Proceeding cautiously down the stairs, I eventually reached what appeared to be a door at the entrance to the 60th floor. A door in a dungeon? I''ve never seen anything like this before. But I won''t know anything unless I open it, so here goes.


    "...It''s so bright."


    : What''s going on?


    : Is this a tropical island or something?


    : So this is the 60th floor?


    : What happened to the water?


    : Look closer, it''s still there.


    When I opened the door, the blazing sun was shining down on me. Having just come from the pitch-black depths of the sea, my eyes couldn''t handle the sudden brightness, and I had to shut them. It might take a few minutes for my eyes to adjust.


    As I tried to get used to the light, I could hear the sound of gentle waves in the distance. Slowly, I opened my eyes, looking up to see a shining sun... and the ocean floating upside down in the sky.


    "What the heck is up with this ridiculous dungeon?"


    : I have no idea.


    : The ocean is... floating above you?


    : What even is this?


    : I can''t process this information.


    : I can only laugh at this point.


    : I''ve stopped thinking.


    : Time to leave this to the theorists.


    : Are there even theorists watching this stream?


    No matter how many times I blinked, the sea floating above me didn''t disappear. It wasn''t like a mirage or something faintly visible; it was definitely there, solid, but no water droplets were falling. The sound of the waves was coming from above, which means... maybe there''s a beach somewhere up there... in the sky.


    And even though there''s a massive body of water hanging over me, there''s also a sun shining directly above. The sunlight is somehow penetrating the water, but it''s lighting up this entire place¡­ though I doubt that''s a real sun, considering this is a dungeon.


    "So you''re telling me I have to walk through this empty space?"


    : No, isn''t it just that the ocean floor dried up or something?


    : Look at all the limp seaweed, lol.


    : Why is the seabed at your feet, but the ocean is overhead?


    : This dungeon has so many mysteries.


    : I knew the Nagoya Dungeon was weird, but this is on another level. I didn''t expect it to be this insane.


    : Come on, laugh, viewers! No one''s seen a dungeon like this before.


    Yeah, I bet no one has ever seen anything like this. Sure, there have been some crazy dungeons before, but I''ve never seen one this absurdly otherworldly.


    "But you know, I think dungeons are supposed to be confusing and nonsensical like this¡­ oh, I''m talking about in games."


    : Really?


    : In roguelikes, it''s not that strange.


    : Some games do have weird dungeons, though.


    : Recently, dungeon crawling has just been regular underground stuff.


    : Is there a game with a setting this bizarre?


    : Someone should make a game based on this Nagoya Dungeon.


    : Any game developers watching, please make this happen.


    "Yeah, a game where you make real dungeons even more fun could be interesting. If you need help with location research, just hit me up."


    What games or novels need is just enough realism to keep things exciting. If you try to make everything too realistic, it gets boring. I think a game just needs a little bit of realism¡ªjust enough to keep you excited.


    These days, game companies focus on making even magic feel realistic and theoretical, but who needs that? I''d be happy with some over-the-top magic like summoning meteors.


    "Hm?"


    I heard the sound of water being stirred above me and looked up¡­ only to see a multi-headed monster diving out of the sea above, heading straight for me.


    Before I could react, Sagojo and Kichijin leaped upward to intercept it.


    : Is that a Leviathan?


    : Why do people always call any giant sea snake a Leviathan?


    : There''s that game where you explore the sea and fight Leviathans.


    : That game wasn''t even made by a Japanese developer, though.


    : It''s funny how we''re all freaking out about the environment, but no one''s surprised by the monster.


    "Tenko, you don''t need to hold the camera anymore."


    ''Understood.''


    Tenko let go of the camera, and it floated above my shoulder as usual, freeing her hands. Now she could focus on dealing with that snake.


    There are five heads visible. If there were eight, I could''ve called it Yamata no Orochi, and if there were nine, it''d be a Hydra, but with just five... well, it''s not really worth giving it a fancy name.


    Sagojo and Kichijin each took on one head, while Tenko used water magic to attack another. That leaves me with the remaining two.


    "I''m out of the water now, so I can finally use magic properly¡­ alright!"


    : Electricity crackling.


    : You really like lightning magic, don''t you?


    What can I say? As a guy, shooting lightning is just cool. Between fire, wind, lightning, and ice, guys are more likely to be drawn to lightning or ice. At least, that''s how I grew up.


    When I fired lightning at the two heads coming toward me, they thrashed about in shock before crashing to the ground. The heads the shikigami were fighting were also slammed into the ground alongside them.


    ''It''s fully descended now.'' S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The multi-headed snake that had lunged out of the sea above us had a thick body that split into five heads midway down. Judging by the way it came straight for us, this thing might be the boss of this floor.


    Since there''s no information about this dungeon, I''m figuring everything out as I go.


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    : That boss looks weak.


    : It at least looks intimidating, though.


    : But it got knocked down in the first attack.


    : A boss that gets instantly wrecked isn''t exactly strong, huh?


    : Kisaragi-kun seems stronger than the boss itself.


    Well, I guess I''ll just keep testing it out.

 Chapter 105: The Ancient City Bathed in Moonlight

    "Whoa."Even though the five heads had been slammed into the ground and looked like they were finished, they all got up much more energetically than I expected. Now, all ten eyes were glaring straight at me. I wonder if dungeon monsters instinctively or through some magical connection realize that I''m the one controlling the shikigami.


    Then, all five heads suddenly opened their mouths and shot beams of heat. I mean, you''d think a dragon that just jumped out of the water would shoot water, right? But no, it''s heat rays for some reason.


    ''Water Dragon.''


    As the five heat beams aimed to incinerate me, Tenko summoned a massive amount of water from the ocean above, shaping it into a gigantic dragon that swallowed both the beams and the dragon.


    : Isn''t Tenko-san way too strong?


    : Yeah, her abilities are crazy, but she only works well in water environments, right?


    : I don''t think Kisaragi-kun would use a shikigami with such limited abilities.


    : Is water really that limiting, though?


    : Considering how few dungeons have water, it''s pretty restricted.


    The dragon, completely enveloped by Tenko''s water magic, probably wouldn''t take much damage since it was originally swimming in the ocean. But if I freeze the water, that could be a different story. Instead of summoning a shikigami that controls ice, I decided to use ice magic myself to freeze Tenko''s water dragon solid.


    The dragon, now encased in ice, was quickly targeted by Sagojo, who unleashed some kind of strange water wave from his trident.


    "What''s that?"


    : Wait, you don''t know?


    : Kisaragi-kun, seriously¡­


    : At least know all your shikigami''s abilities, smh.


    : Another unknown ability from your own shikigami, lol.


    Well, I can''t help it if I don''t know. Still, whatever that water wave from Sagojo''s trident was, it had the power to shatter the massive block of ice that contained the dragon. It looked like nothing more than a wave of water, but somehow it turned into an incredible force. I''m really curious about how that works.


    ''...No chance to shine.''


    Kichijin, who hadn''t really done anything in the fight, sulked while picking up the magic stone that had fallen. Well, Kichijin is versatile, but not as specialized in certain areas as other shikigami.


    "So, the water''s all gone and the sea floor is just... left here?" Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Pretty much, yeah.


    : What about it?


    : Isn''t this a gold mine for rare metals?


    : Is it really that easy?


    I had the same thought. Up until now, I''d ignored the possibility of finding rare metals because I didn''t know how to extract them, and it was too dark to see anything anyway. But now that it''s so clearly visible, it feels wrong to leave it behind.


    : But the lower levels might have the same layout.


    : Why not check them out first?


    : You can gather rare metals on your way back.


    : Dungeon exploration should take priority over the rare metals, right?


    : Just do what you want, Kisaragi-kun.


    : Yeah, go with what feels right.


    "Yeah, you''re probably right about leaving it for the way back."


    I decided to summon Kasha now to carry all the magic stones we''d collected along the way. I felt a bit weird about summoning Kasha while we were underwater earlier, but now that it''s getting heavy, I need the help.


    The one thing that would really annoy me now is if the next floor was flooded again. Just when I thought I was done with water, having to go back into it would be a pain. Once humans experience comfort, it''s hard to let go of it¡ªkind of like how you can bear summer heat without air conditioning until you''ve used it, and then you can''t stand even 30-degree weather without turning it on.


    As I approached the stairs to the 61st floor, there was another door, so I opened it cautiously. Peeking down, it didn''t look like there was any water. Maybe the floors below aren''t submerged?


    "Alright, let''s head down."


    : Looking forward to seeing the deep floors of Nagoya Dungeon.


    : If there''s no water, anyone can explore it!


    : Yeah, except for the journey down to the 60th floor, lol.


    : Kisaragi-kun, make sure to drain the water from floors 11 to 59 for us.


    : How exactly is he supposed to do that?


    : Just drain it like it''s leftover bathwater or something, lol.


    When I finished descending the stairs, there was another door at the bottom. A little annoyed, I pushed open the heavy steel door¡­ and soft, moonlit light poured in.


    "¡­There''s seriously an ancient city down here."


    : That''s so cool.


    : The atmosphere is full of mystery.


    : So wait, is this dungeon some ancient civilization''s relic that just surfaced a few decades ago?


    : Stop spouting random conspiracy theories in the comment section.


    : If you''ve got crazy ideas, post them on social media, lol.


    Can I really call it an ancient city? Walking along a stone-paved path lined with columns, I could see ruins of what were clearly once buildings, and in the distance, there was a massive stone castle-like structure. Also, this 61st floor is absurdly large.


    "It might be faster to survey this from above."


    Looking up, I saw what looked like a moon hovering over the water''s surface. So the ocean is floating above again... What is with this dungeon? Unlike the 60th floor, though, there are clearly many man-made structures here, with huge stone pillars rising from the water.


    Using magic, I created footholds in the air, ascending higher like I was climbing stairs. From up here, I could see the vastness of the 61st floor.


    : Isn''t this way too big?


    : Yeah, it''s insanely large.


    : Totally gives off ancient ruins vibes.


    : There''s something incredibly romantic about submerged ancient ruins.


    : The idea of a dungeon filled with submerged ruins isn''t just an archaeological discovery¡ªit''s world-changing.


    I''m no historian, so I have no idea how old these ruins are or how much they might be worth. Still, I can''t help but feel excited at the thought of exploring these ancient remnants.


    "Hm?"


    As I was climbing the transparent steps and surveying the area, my phone suddenly rang. The caller ID said it was Ryuusuke Aizawa.


    "Hello?"


    ''Hey¡­ I just got a report from the Union that your stream has become quite a big deal. Just to double-check, where exactly are you right now?''


    "I''m on the 61st floor of the Nagoya Dungeon."


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    He let out a deep, exhausted sigh.


    ''I''m not saying you need to come back to the surface right now, but could you collect some of the stone materials from that ruin you''re exploring? Even just some loose pieces would do.''


    "Sure. I''ll also take some pictures of the area."


    : It''s hilarious how we can hear the whole conversation.


    : The Union''s not the only one going crazy¡ªsocial media and the Dungeon Association are in an uproar too, lol.


    : I bet historians and researchers studying dungeons are probably losing their minds over this.


    : I''m in a dungeon history class at college, and let me tell you, the professors were already losing it when they saw the footage from the Shibuya Dungeon''s deep floors.


    : Lol.


    : Those professors are probably long gone by now.

 Chapter 106: Showdown with the Fortress City

    "Still, I wonder... was this civilization built after the dungeon formed, or did the civilization exist first and then get swallowed by the dungeon?"The third possibility could be that the dungeon was simply designed to look like a collapsed civilization, and no humans ever actually lived here. It would be a huge headache for historians, but it''s not entirely impossible.


    After all, the Shibuya Dungeon had a whole sea inside it, so it''s not that far-fetched for the Nagoya Dungeon to have buildings that look like they belong to some lost civilization... No, actually, that is pretty strange when I think about it.


    : Can you see the edge?


    : Nope.


    : This floor is insanely huge. Are you seriously going to explore all of it by yourself?


    : Come on, if Kisaragi-kun managed to explore the deep sea, this should be nothing for him.


    "Well, I guess the first thing to do is find the stairs... If there are no stairs, then I guess this 61st floor is the final level of the Nagoya Dungeon."


    : That''d be awesome if this is the final floor.


    : Why?


    : Gets me right in the feels.


    : Why are you getting emotional for no reason?


    : In the end, the Nagoya Dungeon is still an impossible mess that only Kisaragi can conquer. Can someone save us poor Nagoya locals?


    : Wait, Nagoya Prefecture?


    : You can''t say that! It''s Aichi Prefecture! "Nagoya Prefecture" is a forbidden term that will enrage Aichi citizens!


    : Is this a trading card game or something?


    : A card battle of angry internet comments!


    Hmm... I''m flying around, surveying the dungeon, but I can''t find any sign of stairs.


    It might be unrelated, but the ceiling on this 61st floor is insanely high. I can fly up and look down at the entire floor from above. As long as I don''t accidentally dive into the sea floating overhead, I can explore the dungeon in relative comfort.


    : Why are you just casually flying?


    : Well, it''s Kisaragi, after all.


    : If Kamishiro can fly, of course Kisaragi can do it too. No one''s even questioning it anymore.


    : Didn''t he mention being able to fly before?


    : Pretty sure he was flying in a previous stream.


    : Is everyone''s memory this bad?


    Now I''m curious about what''s inside that floating sea. That pale glowing object is just some crystal, but... maybe I''ll ask Tenko to help me dive into the sea and check it out.


    "Something''s below us, my lord."


    "Huh?"


    Below?


    Tenko, who had been quietly flying alongside me, pointed down at something glinting in the light.


    "Is that... metal?"


    : It''s probably a rare metal or something. (Totally guessing)


    : Maybe it''s a giant raw ore?


    : Aren''t rare metals usually buried deep underground?


    : Well, it is a dungeon...


    : Stop using "because it''s a dungeon" as a catch-all explanation for everything! Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : That''s just lazy reasoning.


    I was about to take a closer look when suddenly, the metallic object started whirring and fired a barrage of magic bullets at me like a gatling gun.


    "Whoa!"


    : What the heck is that?


    : Probably an anti-aircraft gun. (Mentally checked out)


    : Wow, ancient civilizations were really advanced, huh?


    : No one can keep up with this anymore. Lol.


    : Seriously, how are we supposed to process ancient buildings in a dungeon with anti-aircraft guns?


    Magic bullets, solidified into projectiles, came at me in a rapid barrage, just like a real anti-aircraft cannon. This is bad. Unlike Kamishiro, I can''t fly at absurd speeds, so my ability to dodge is pretty limited.


    "Kochin!"


    Realizing I couldn''t avoid it, I quickly deployed a barrier using Kochin. Even though they''re firing a lot of magic bullets, my barrier is made of denser magic, so it should be able to hold them off.


    As soon as the shooting started, Sagojo and Kijin were already on the move from below. If everything goes well, they''ll destroy the anti-aircraft gun, but... summoning four of the Twelve Heavenly Generals at once is starting to drain me a bit. If they were regular familiars, I could summon as many as I wanted without an issue, but...


    : This feels like a game I''ve played before.


    : Yeah, but instead of Kisaragi, your character was probably a fighter jet or something.


    : Kisaragi is a fighter jet...?


    : Can fly, summon an army of familiars, is super strong, can put up barriers... Yep, definitely overpowered.


    : Nerf him.


    : Do we even need anyone else at this point?


    : Instead of nerfing Kisaragi, maybe buff all the other explorers?


    : That''s not gonna happen.


    They''re still firing wildly even though it''s clearly not working, so I fired back a concentrated lightning beam, and for some reason, three more anti-aircraft guns popped up from different directions.


    "Kijin, can you check it out?"


    "Check it out? It''s literally just a gatling gun sticking out of the stone floor."


    Apparently, according to Kijin, the anti-aircraft guns are just sprouting out of the stone pavement. Sagojo and Kijin split up and destroyed them, while Tenko pulled water from the overhead sea to take care of the remaining ones. But... this probably isn''t the end.


    "I''ll keep watching the area... Wait."


    Just as I was about to suggest keeping an eye on the surroundings, the top part of the castle-like building in the center of the ancient city opened up, revealing a gigantic railgun-like weapon. And of course, it was pointed at... me.


    Reflexively, I had Kochin put up a maximum-strength barrier, just as a massive magic projectile slammed into it. Sparks of magic flew as the barrier and the magic shell clashed. I could feel cold sweat running down my back. If that had hit me directly, I''d definitely be dead.


    : Holy crap.


    : Kisaragi might actually die here.


    : This dungeon is no joke.


    : This isn''t something we can laugh about.


    This 61st floor is definitely the final level. And judging by how the ancient city''s weapons are reacting, whatever controls them is the boss of this dungeon. I haven''t seen them yet, but if they''re this aggressive, they''re just asking to be hunted down and eliminated. I''ll find them, and I''ll destroy them.


    "Nagoya Dungeon... the complete conquest is just within reach."


    : Why do you sound like you''re having fun?


    : Because he''s a battle maniac.


    : Can''t deny that.


    : You were just about to die, weren''t you?


    : Was he, though?


    : Honestly, it didn''t even feel like he was in real danger.


    : I mean, if that had hit him, he''d definitely be dead.


    : Hmm... hard to say.


    : It didn''t hit, so no problem, right?


    : Honestly, I feel like that was probably the first and last chance this dungeon had to kill Kisaragi. Now it''s over for the boss.


    Looking at how this fight''s been going, it''s clear now: this city itself is the real enemy. That''s fine with me. I''ll take this entire ancient city down.

 Chapter 107: When in Doubt, Blow It Up

    "Kijin-san, hey."¡ºWhat is it?¡»


    "See anything? Like, the presence controlling this ruin or something?"


    If there''s no such presence... that would mean the ruin itself decided to attack me, which is just absurd, but it''s starting to feel like the only explanation.


    ¡ºNothing out of the ordinary caught my eye... It really does seem like this ruin itself developed some kind of will and chose to attack you.¡»


    "Alright then, let''s just smash the whole thing."


    If the ruins are acting like a monster, then there''s no reason not to destroy it. And even if the attack was actually caused by some hidden enemy using the ruins, the dungeon''s structure usually regenerates. As long as it''s part of the dungeon, it''ll probably rebuild itself... probably. No need to worry too much.


    : Aren''t these ruins super valuable or something?


    : Can''t prioritize treasure over staying alive, dude.


    : Yeah, if the ruins themselves are hostile, it''s fair game to wreck them.


    : So, wait... does that make the enemies here, like, inorganic monsters?


    : I don''t even know anymore.


    : This whole ancient-city-themed dungeon is beyond comprehension.


    : I still can''t get over how the Nagoya Dungeon was flooded up to floor 59, but then, from 60 onwards, it''s just... dry? How does that even work?


    : Don''t worry, no one understands it. We''ve all stopped trying.


    : What''s comforting about that exactly...?


    "Kijin, I''m relying on you for this one. No one''s stronger than you among the Twelve Heavenly Generals."


    ¡ºH-hey! You can count on me!¡»


    Despite her eccentric personality, Kijin is one of the familiars I trust the most. Actually, she''s probably the closest to my ideal among all the ones I''ve summoned. Though I''ll admit... I sometimes wish her personality was less, well, weird. Still, she''s powerful and reliable when it counts, and even with her quirks, I don''t dislike her at all.


    Meanwhile, Sagojo has already finished smashing the last gatling gun. I''m not sure what''s coming next, but staying in the air makes me a sitting duck. Better to land on solid ground.


    ¡ºYou''re surrounded.¡»


    "Wait, what? Already?"


    ¡ºYes. I''m not sure how they got into position without being detected, though.¡»


    Tenko says she senses their presence through the movement of moisture in the air. That makes no sense to me¡ªwhat does "moisture movement" even mean? Maybe she can detect subtle disturbances in the air like ripples on water? I don''t really get the science behind it, but since her danger sense has never been wrong, I''ll trust her.


    "...Golems?"


    : They look kinda small for golems, though.


    : They look more like magical soldiers¡ªmechanical, maybe?


    : Another weird piece of ancient tech in this dungeon...


    : This dungeon feels like it''s just throwing in random stuff at this point.


    The creatures surrounding us emerge from the ruins¡ªhumanoid figures, roughly my height, made entirely of stone. Each one holds a weapon¡ªswords, spears, bows¡ªand they stand in formation, ready for battle. Maybe these guys were the ones controlling the weapon systems earlier? But how did they manage to hide until now? There are at least fifty of them.


    The soldiers are eerily still, each watching me from the shadows, keeping their distance.


    "Tenko."


    ¡ºWaterfall.¡»


    They''re keeping their distance for now, but I''m not interested in playing their game. Tenko summons a massive surge of water from the sea above, crashing it down on the soldiers like a waterfall. The sheer force obliterates the stone warriors and washes away sections of the ancient city. The best part? Thanks to Tenko''s magic, I remain unaffected by the water, as usual.


    : Wow, water is OP, huh.


    : I mean, yeah, water pressure alone is enough to kill people.


    : How many tons of water was that, anyway?


    : I swear, people always throw around numbers like "trillions of tons" when it comes to water.


    : If it were really trillions of tons, this dungeon would be a pile of rubble.


    The flood sweeps away most of the enemies, but I notice one soldier gliding through the air, heading straight for me. Is that... a jetpack? No, wait¡ªit''s using magic to fly.


    This whole situation feels like I''m stuck in some kind of fantasy-mecha anime. If only their weapons weren''t so primitive...


    ¡ºHah!¡» S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The flying soldier comes hurtling toward me, showing no signs of stopping. Maybe it''s planning to blow itself up? Before it can reach me, Kijin opens fire with a volley of magic bullets, shredding the flying enemy mid-air.


    "Seriously... What even is this dungeon?"


    : Beats me.


    : First it gives us ancient railguns, now we''re fighting stone-age magical warriors. Make it make sense.


    : I''ve officially reached the conclusion that I understand nothing.


    : Welcome to the enlightenment club¡ªignorance is bliss.


    : One thing''s for sure¡ªthis dungeon is ridiculously hard.


    The area is now soaked, thanks to Tenko''s magic, and for the moment, there are no signs of more enemies. But with how unpredictable things have been, it feels like trouble could strike at any moment. I can''t shake the sense that the entire city itself is alive... and hostile.


    "...Would blowing up the city fix this?"


    : Did... Did he just say that?


    : Please tell me I misheard that.


    : Nagoya Dungeon about to go boom.


    : "Wait, is there insurance for this?"


    : No. No, there''s not.


    Honestly, if blowing everything up solves the problem, then that''s the easiest option. I could summon a god to help, but unleashing a massive explosion sounds like a much simpler solution. If the association complains, I''ll just tell them it was an emergency. They won''t argue with that. Flawless logic. Perfect.


    With that settled, my next target is that weird castle-looking building in the center of the ruins. I haven''t checked inside yet, but if something is controlling the dungeon, it''s probably in there. Time to proceed with caution.


    : Is he seriously gonna blow up the entire place?


    : 100%. No doubt about it.


    : I respect the commitment to chaos.


    : "If in doubt, blow it all up"¡ªa timeless strategy.


    : Let''s goooo! Explosion gang, rise up!


    Magic works like anything else: compress it too much, and it''ll explode. A big enough magical blast could take out this whole city. Kamishiro managed to wipe out an entire floor in the Sapporo Dungeon, so the same principle applies here.


    : Honestly, I don''t see anything wrong with this plan.


    : Yeah, if the dungeon''s giving you trouble, just nuke it.


    : Why fight fair when you can fight with explosions?


    "Alright then. Time to finish this."


    As I fix my eyes on the castle in the distance, my hands tingle with compressed magic. This city has thrown everything it could at me... but I''m done playing by its rules. If this ancient ruin wants to act like an enemy, then I''ll give it the end it deserves.

 Chapter 108: A Dungeon Core and a Job Well Done

    As I get closer to the center, soldiers that were nowhere to be seen before start emerging from all directions. I get the feeling that they''re trying to stop me from reaching the center. I don''t know what''s waiting for me there, but I can''t help but feel a bit excited.While I keep the Guchin barrier up, I ignore the soldiers as much as possible and leave them to Sagojo, Kijin, and Tenko.


    Sagojo, likely because of his divine rank, outshines the other two when it comes to sheer offensive power. The torrents of water from his trident roar as they tear through both the soldiers and the ancient city. I guess being near water makes him even stronger?


    ¡ºI can''t believe that this brute of a crocodile is being the most useful...! Me too!¡»


    ¡ºWater Dragon!¡»


    I ignore Kijin''s rant, and Tenko summons three massive water dragons from the ocean above. These ones are even bigger than before.


    Whether it''s because the dragons appeared or because I''m closing in on the center, I don''t know¡ªbut a massive robot, around 10 meters tall, emerges from the side of the central area. Though it looks robotic, it also seems like an enlarged version of the stone soldiers we''ve been fighting, just with more advanced weaponry.


    : Is this some kind of monster showdown?


    : Lol


    : It''s literally a kaiju battle now.


    : How is this even a dungeon livestream? This feels like a movie.


    : If it''s human-sized, I''d call it a soldier, but at this size, it''s definitely a golem.


    : What does that even mean?


    : If it''s made of stone, it''s a golem¡ªend of story.


    One of the water dragons flies straight at the giant golem, but the "eye" on its face fires a red beam, vaporizing the dragon instantly. The beam hits the ruins below, triggering an explosion... Should a guardian really be blowing up the city it''s supposed to protect?


    The golem turns toward us, raising a massive fist to slam down. But before it can, Sagojo charges forward¡ªwater bursts from his trident, forming a spear that pierces the golem''s approaching fist.


    : Too strong, lol.


    : What the hell are you even making?


    : Kisaragi-kun, seriously, what are you doing?


    : How are you able to create monsters so easily?


    "Uh... I don''t really know."


    Honestly, my idea of Jinsha was just that he''d swim effortlessly and take down enemies with his trident. I never imagined he''d control water like Tenko and obliterate a giant golem in one hit. I guess the entity I summoned ended up being a lot stronger than I expected. Godly summons have a lot of unknowns, after all.


    With the golem defeated, I reach what looks like the central castle. I leave the entrance to Sagojo and enter with Tenko and Kijin, just as I expected¡ªanother swarm of soldiers.


    "Wipe them out!"


    I fire lightning bolts, Kijin uses fire, and Tenko unleashes waves of water, mowing down the soldiers as we charge forward. After running through the building and clearing out enemies, we come to an open space. At the center, I spot what looks like a throne. Floating above it, in defiance of gravity, is a purple crystal I''ve never seen before.


    : Is that a dungeon core, like the ones in novels?


    : Really? If we destroy it, will the dungeon collapse?


    : Wait, are dungeon cores actually real?


    : It''s just a guess, though.


    : We don''t even know if it''s really a core.


    "Let''s just attack it for now."


    : Wut?


    : LOL


    : Muscle-brain logic at its finest.


    In games, the standard approach is to attack anything you don''t understand. I point my finger at the crystal¡ªlet''s call it the "dungeon core"¡ªand fire a lightning beam at it. But instead of shattering or reflecting the attack, the lightning is absorbed into the crystal, vanishing without a trace.


    "Hmm... Did it just absorb my magic?"


    ¡ºThat''s what it looked like. But if it can absorb all your magic so easily... wouldn''t destroying it be impossible?¡»


    : Why is destruction always your first solution? Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : What if destroying it makes the dungeon collapse?


    : Imagine if it all came crashing down, lol.


    : That crystal definitely looks shady.


    "Guess I''ll try touching it next."


    If I can''t destroy it, the logical next step is to touch it.


    When I reach out, the crystal feels slightly warm to the touch. But what''s really strange is that, even though we''ve been swarmed by soldiers until now, not a single one has appeared since we entered this room. Is the crystal the key to all of this?


    "I have no idea what''s going on, so let''s take this crystal home as a trophy."


    : Can you even do that?


    : Eh, why not?


    : And just like that, Nagoya Dungeon is over!


    : That was anticlimactic for a final floor.


    : "Anticlimactic" (after fighting soldiers, robots, and ancient weapons).


    : Yeah, sure, lol.


    The crystal isn''t as heavy as I expected. Maybe it''s because it was floating? It''s about two meters tall¡ªdefinitely bigger than me. Hopefully, moving it won''t trigger an alarm or cause a bunch of enemies to show up...


    "Huh?"


    The moment I shift the crystal, the surrounding noise vanishes.


    ¡ºThe enemies... they''ve stopped moving.¡»


    Tenko peeks into the room and confirms that all enemy movement has ceased. So, everything we fought earlier was controlled by this crystal? That''s... surprisingly straightforward. Is it really okay to end like this?


    : That was too easy.


    : Not every dungeon raid needs a dramatic ending, you know.


    : Who even are you?


    : Some dungeons just end abruptly.


    : "Abruptly" (with floods and giant robots).


    : Reminder: No one but Kisaragi-kun could even reach this place.


    Even so... a crystal that absorbs magic power¡ªcould it have practical uses? Like storing magic to function as a massive generator?


    These days, we generate electricity using disposable magic stones, which means we need a constant supply of them. But with this crystal, we could store magic power instead. I just don''t know how we''d extract it, though...


    Well, anyway, this is how we conquered a dungeon that was supposedly impossible for humanity to clear. Problem solved. If the enemies had kept spawning endlessly, I''d have just blown up the entire city¡ªbut luckily, that wasn''t necessary.


    No problem. Momantai!

 Chapter 109: Thread 14: Kisaragis Conquest

    1: Anonymous Explorer sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.This is wild, isn''t it?


    Here''s the news article:


    ¡º[BREAKING] Nagoya Dungeon Reportedly Cleared to the Final Floor¡»


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Here''s the actual stream:


    ¡ºClearing the Dungeon¡»


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    2: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    This is not something you can just brush off with a "wild, isn''t it?"


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    OP is really good at sharing links, huh?


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾3


    Just posting URLs makes you "good"? Standards seem a bit too loose here.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    ÈçÔ¾ý¤Ã¤ÆUNKNOWN¤Ç¤·¤ç?


    ŒgëH�Š¤¤¤Î?


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾5


    Just watch for yourself. He''s absurdly strong. Other EX-rank explorers are also ridiculously overpowered, but Kisaragi stands out¡ªlike he''s on a different level. Of course, who''s the "strongest" depends on the situation and conditions.


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾5


    He''s EX-rank. Weakness isn''t even an option.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, we only started getting a sense of how powerful the EX-rank is because Kisaragi started streaming. Before that, we didn''t even really know how strong the S-ranks were.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    ÑÔ¤¦¤ÆÉñŒmË—÷¤ÏÎô¤«¤éÈÕ±¾×î�Š¤È¤Ïºô¤Ð¤ì¤Æ¤¿¤À¤í


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾9


    Yeah, but now people can visualize what "strongest" means. Anyone can call someone the strongest without proof, but showing it is another story.


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    Ãû¹ÅÎÝ¥À¥ó¥¸¥ç¥ó¹¥ÂÔ¤·¤¿¤Ã¤Æ¥Þ¥¸?


    Ë®’i¤¤¤¿?


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    ¡ùˮû¤·¤¿¤Þ¤Þ¤Ç¤¹


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    Clearing a fully submerged dungeon is some next-level madness.


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s still underwater, only Kisaragi can do it. That''s so unfair.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾15


    I watched the stream¡ªit was clear that only Kisaragi could pull off this kind of run. So, even though it feels like a weird kind of victory, a clear is a clear.


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾15


    It''s the same with the Takayama and Sapporo Dungeons. Even after someone clears them, not everyone can reach the lower levels.


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    Just because it''s been cleared doesn''t mean everyone can instantly reach the final floor.


    18: Anonymous Explorer


    The only question is whether only Kisaragi can do it, or if other elites can handle it too.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    What if another explorer who can dive underwater shows up? Could they make it?


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾19


    No chance. There''s no way anyone else can navigate that kind of darkness.


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    With Nagoya cleared, that makes three cleared dungeons in Japan, including the recent Sapporo Dungeon.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    How many dungeons are there in Japan?


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    Around 40, wasn''t it?


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s barely any progress, lol.


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, it''s wild that two dungeons were cleared back-to-back. I think there are only about 30 cleared dungeons worldwide, right?


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    This is crazy.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾27


    Could this be Japan''s golden age?


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾27


    Nah, it''s just the top-tier explorers carrying everything. The rest aren''t that great.


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, I hear our government isn''t even properly funding mid-tier explorers.


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾29


    They really should invest more.


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    This is such a typical problem in Japan.


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    Do explorers often move abroad for better opportunities?


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably not as much as you''d think. With over 30 dungeons on a small island, the economy here isn''t that bad, even if magic stone prices are a bit lower.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    Even if they wanted to work abroad, the conditions differ between dungeons, so it''s not that simple.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    Since Kisaragi cleared Nagoya, I hope he starts clearing other dungeons too¡ªfor humanity''s sake.


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Please stop placing the future of humanity on the shoulders of an 18-year-old.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾37


    He''s EX-rank, though. In this field, age is just a number.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m thinking about diving into Nagoya Dungeon myself.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾38


    What''s the point? You can barely make it past the 10th floor, and it''s not even worth it with so few monsters around.


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾39


    That''s a hilariously awful dungeon when you put it like that, lol.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Seriously, no one even considered trying to clear Nagoya Dungeon. This is a quiet but impressive achievement.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    "Quiet"? This is insanely impressive. If this isn''t flashy, nothing is.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s not forget¡ªthis dungeon was deemed impossible for humanity to clear. And now one guy did it solo. That''s the stuff of legends.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe not a hero, but Kisaragi will go down in history as a great figure.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    Finally, now that Nagoya Dungeon is cleared, people will stop making fun of us locals.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾45


    Wait, you live near Nagoya Dungeon? Lol, the property values must be rock-bottom.


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾45


    Still, since only Kisaragi can clear it, the area''s value won''t improve much, lol.


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just brutal, lol.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, the land around Nagoya Dungeon is cheap. No one wants to be near an uncleared dungeon. Imagine if monsters started spilling out one day¡ªwhat would they do?


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    Monsters spilling out of a dungeon? Nah, that won''t happen.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾50


    Oh, sure (looks away).


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    They said the same thing during the early days of dungeon exploration... and look what happened.


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamakura... (whispered)


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s not bring up the Kamakura Dungeon Incident¡ªit''s Japan''s most shameful moment.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾54


    Why are you explaining it in detail, though?


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    lol


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s been 50 years since then¡­ maybe we can move on by now.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    Nope. It''s still relevant¡ªthey only finished wiping out the escaped monsters about 10 years ago.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    I heard property values around dungeons tanked after that. What''s the situation now?


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    It depends on the dungeon. Since Nagoya Dungeon was cleared, you''d think the value would go up, but¡­ nope. Not yet.


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    It makes sense. It''s still a dungeon that only Kisaragi can handle.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    Shouldn''t we just put Kisaragi in the Guinness Book of World Records for clearing the most dungeons?


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    Let him clear more first before doing that.


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    Just because it''s cleared doesn''t mean anything will change right away. People are making way too big a deal about this. Does Kisaragi Tsukasa really deserve this much hype?


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾64


    If it''s being discussed on an anti-fan thread, that already says a lot, doesn''t it?


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾64


    What part of his performance makes you think he''s weak?


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, someone from the anti-thread went on social media to argue that Nagoya Dungeon wasn''t a big deal¡­ and they got absolutely roasted. Deleted their account, too.


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾67


    Why do anti-fans always think going public will end well? They should''ve just stayed in their little echo chamber.


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾68


    It''s classic behavior. They get hyped by people agreeing with them in the anti-thread and think, "Everyone must feel the same way!" Then they post it publicly and get dunked on.


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    Why are you guys so mean, though?


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    Because it''s the truth.


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    Look, if they just stayed in their anti-thread, no one would care. But the moment they go public, it''s over.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    Talking down on Nagoya Dungeon''s clear would piss off Aichi locals, for sure.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾64


    Maybe learn more about dungeons before posting next time. Otherwise, you''ll end up like that anti-fan who got roasted on social media.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    At the end of the day, less than 40 dungeons have ever been fully cleared worldwide. That should tell you everything.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    Just reaching the final floor is an incredible feat. If you understand that, you''d never say Kisaragi''s achievement isn''t impressive.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    You''d think people would know by now. The media covers dungeons all the time, and there are tons of YouTube videos explaining this stuff.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    Even elementary school kids know about this stuff nowadays.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, with all the explainer videos and highlights out there, it makes sense that kids are so well-informed. But how are NEETs still so clueless?


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    NEETs are too busy arguing online to learn anything useful.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    Honestly, if they were the type to work hard and learn, they wouldn''t be NEETs in the first place.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    I watched the archive of the stream from £¾£¾1, and the first 20 floors were super beautiful and peaceful¡­ but from the 40th floor onward, it just got terrifying. Couldn''t keep watching.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾82


    I saw some folks with thalassophobia freaking out on social media.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, that dungeon must''ve been a nightmare for anyone with thalassophobia. Even the deeper layers of the Shibuya Dungeon had oceans, though.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    You have to be pretty tough to handle these kinds of explorations, huh?


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    So¡­ does that mean all explorers are basically the kings of online arguments too?


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾86


    Well, online arguments are won by not giving in. If your mental strength is top-tier, you''ll dominate arguments too.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    A dungeon deemed impossible for humans to clear. And Kisaragi cleared it.


    But wait¡­ has anyone said he''s actually human?


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    The logic goes:


    Nagoya Dungeon is impossible for humans.Kisaragi cleared it.Therefore, Kisaragi isn''t human.


    Q.E.D.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾89


    That''s the dumbest logic I''ve ever heard.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s more like three-layered nonsense than proper logic, tbh.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    But Kisaragi not being human feels kinda accurate.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    Sorry, but the "Kisaragi is not human" theory was already debunked. That''s an old one.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, it got debunked?


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    The reasoning was weak, though. They said, "He eats food on stream, so he must be human." That''s hardly convincing.


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    lol No way that counts as proof.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    Why are we even seriously debating whether Kisaragi is human?


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    Because clearing Nagoya Dungeon makes no sense otherwise. Even I can''t wrap my head around it.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾98


    I get that it''s hard to believe, but the fact is that he cleared it. Time to accept reality.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    Discover more stories at mvl


    Kisaragi Tsukasa¡ªa glitch in the matrix created by the gods.


    How many more dungeons will fall to him next?

 Chapter 110: A New Mission Awaits

    When I returned to the surface, there was chaos everywhere. Well, it makes sense¡ªafter all, I entered a dungeon that no one had ever set foot in and cleared it all the way to the final floor¡­ People freaking out is kind of understandable. Still, even though a part of the internet and the involved organizations are in a frenzy, society at large barely seems to care. That''s kind of sad.Magic stones are essential for modern life, which means dungeons are indispensable, right? But for the general public, dungeons feel like something far removed from their daily lives, so they just don''t care. It sounds arrogant when you put it that way, but I guess it''s like how nobody thinks about the people maintaining infrastructure¡ªthey just use electricity without a second thought.


    When I showed up at the entrance to the Nagoya Dungeon, the staff from the Explorers'' Guild were scrambling. I guess working at a dungeon that usually gets no visitors doesn''t prepare you for sudden excitement.


    Explore hidden tales at mvl


    I was thinking how laid-back they were compared to the people at the Shibuya Dungeon¡­ but now that I think about it, they were also freaking out when I reached the deeper layers over there, so maybe it''s just the same everywhere.


    "So, Kisaragi-kun, what are you going to do now that you''ve casually cleared the Nagoya Dungeon?"


    "Nothing in particular..."


    Waiting for me back in Tokyo was a corporate slave holding an energy drink and giving me a tired smile¡ªAizawa-san. Apparently, the guild needed to get some details about the Nagoya Dungeon, so he came to see me. Though honestly, I''ve already told them everything there was to say during that phone call in the dungeon.


    "It''s not like I wanted to question you about it personally. That''s just the official reason. Truthfully, I wanted to ask what your plans are after you graduate from high school. I heard you plan to start a company?"


    "Yeah, but nothing will really change. I''ll keep working as an EX-rank explorer and as a dungeon streamer. Though, mentoring younger explorers like you do could be nice too."


    "Is that so? Well, your two apprentices seem to be doing quite well."


    While I''ve been busy having fun and casually clearing dungeons, Asakawa and Miyamoto have been growing tremendously as explorers. To be fair, I always thought they were geniuses¡ªthey just didn''t know how to use their talents. Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Aizawa is focused on guiding the top-tier explorers, while my grandmother handles beginner-level training (I think?). Both of them care about the future of Japanese explorers, considering how few of us there are. I guess it''s important for me to think about the same things now that I''m an EX-rank explorer, too¡­ though I''ll leave Kamishiro-san to his own devices.


    "You''re young, so you should do whatever you want."


    "Aizawa-san, you''re only 32, right?"


    "Thirty-two is already old¡ªespecially in a field like dungeon exploration, where most people are younger."


    You say that, but the top explorer in this field is over 60.


    As far as "freedom" goes, I think I''m already pretty free. If I take any more liberties, Aizawa-san''s dark circles are going to get worse from worrying about me.


    On my way home, I was riding the train, leaning against the doors while playing on my phone. Suddenly, through the flow of people, a woman was pushed right in front of me.


    "Ugh¡­ City trains are the worst."


    "...Miyamoto-san?"


    "Huh?"


    I had a feeling something was off, and when I looked, I saw a familiar face. It was a bit surprising to run into her here. Miyamoto looked startled when I called her name, glancing around to see who was speaking to her. Oh, right¡ªsince I''m wearing a hat and glasses, she probably didn''t recognize me at first.


    "K-Kisaragi¡­-san?"


    "It''s been a while since we last met in person."


    "Y-Yeah¡­ For a second, I thought someone from my old job had found me."


    Oh, right. She used to work at a black company, didn''t she? If you''re riding the train late at night and someone suddenly calls out to you, it''s natural to assume it''s someone from your old job.


    "Weren''t you supposed to be in Nagoya?"


    "I just took the bullet train home. I only cleared the dungeon, after all."


    "You say that so casually¡­ but the scale of what you did is kind of mind-blowing."


    Is it? I guess it might be. I honestly have no clue what a "normal" explorer''s workload is like.


    "What about you, Miyamoto-san?"


    "I''ve been working on the weapon issue I mentioned before."


    "Ah, I see."


    It seems like she''s still undecided about her weapon. It makes sense to be cautious¡ªafter all, she fights in a way that heavily relies on her weapons. Unlike me, who can just make do with whatever, she has to be extra careful about her gear.


    "I''m glad to see you doing well as a streamer too. It''s reassuring, since I''m sort of your mentor."


    "M-Mentor¡­ That''s right. You''ve been a lifesaver for me."


    "L-Lifesaver?"


    Isn''t that a bit much?


    From her perspective, I guess I did help her when she felt stuck. But honestly, the fact that she was struggling as an explorer in the first place was because the government didn''t provide proper foundational support. I just filled in those gaps.


    "We should collaborate again sometime. I''d like you to see how much I''ve grown."


    "S-Sure."


    It''s stuff like this¡ªcollaborating with women all the time¡ªthat makes people think I''m some kind of playboy. But with her looking at me like that, it''s hard to say no. Maybe I should try reaching out to a male streamer next time¡­ though I might have to make the first move myself.


    Ignoring public opinion altogether would be the easiest route, but I also think it''s important to listen to feedback. Whether I act on it or ignore it is up to me, though.


    After chatting with Miyamoto on the train, I finally made it home. Exploring underwater for so long was exhausting. Summoning four Twelve Heavenly Generals at once probably didn''t help either.


    I''ll have a lot to do starting tomorrow, but for now, I''ll keep up with my streaming and work on my business plans little by little.


    Besides, I''ve got one more person I''d like to recruit for my team.

 Chapter 111: A New Company Takes Shape

    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun... It''s cold, huh?""...Well, it is snowing."


    Asakawa-san greeted me while fiddling with her scarf, looking a bit cold. Well, it makes sense¡ªit''s snowing, after all.


    It''s early February, and starting today, school is on flexible attendance. I''ll drop by the school today to sort out some things, but I don''t plan to come back until graduation. I haven''t been able to attend school properly ever since I became an EX-rank explorer in my first year, but I do have some attachment to it.


    After all, it''s where I met people important to me, like Asakawa-san, my first real friend.


    "So, I heard you already started the company. Is that true?"


    "Well... It''s only a formality for now."


    I''ve handled most of the paperwork, so all that''s left is for me to graduate and start hiring people. One of the reasons I came to see Asakawa at school today was to talk about that.


    We walked to the classroom together, but as expected, there weren''t many people inside. It''s the first day of flexible attendance, so this is probably as crowded as it gets. Even so, more than half the students weren''t there¡ªsome are busy with exams, while others got accepted through early admission and don''t need to attend anymore.


    "So, interviews are next?"


    "Yeah, especially since I need to find streamers to join the company."


    So far, I''ve got three people lined up to join. The first is, of course, me. The second is Asakawa Nanami¡ªbetter known as Asagao¡ªwho''s standing right in front of me. And the third is... Miyamoto Kana, also known as Kanakon.


    "By the way, how did Kanakon-san agree to join?"


    "Well, she used to be an office worker, and when I told her that the job wouldn''t be much different from what she''s doing now, she just said okay."


    "I see... But we''ll need to sort out some of the finer details."


    "Yeah... Like dealing with income from donations and all that."


    Since we''re setting this up as a proper company, we''ll need to collect a portion of the revenue our streamers generate. Up until now, I''ve never enabled donation functions because I wasn''t interested in the money, but now that we''re going professional, I''ll have to set it up. We''re also planning to hire office staff, so we''ll need a stable income stream.


    "Considering corporate taxes and everything, it might be a good idea to hire an accountant. I guess I could just cover the expenses out of my own pocket, but..."


    "Is that really a good idea?"


    "You''re right... I guess I was thinking about it too much like a game."


    I recently came into some money, so I''ve been a bit careless with it. You see, a few months ago, I found a crystal deep inside the Nagoya Dungeon that can absorb magic. It turned out to be so complex that researchers have been stuck on it ever since.


    In fact, it was so puzzling that Japanese researchers gave up on it and passed it along to international organizations. So now, researchers worldwide are frantically studying it.


    Here''s the kicker, though: I still technically own that crystal. I don''t need it back, but since I''m only loaning it to them, I receive compensation over time. Which means... Yeah, I''m earning passive income without doing anything. Wonder when that research will wrap up.


    "So, how many people do you plan to hire?"


    "For streamers? Ideally, I''d like to grow it into a large company with around 50 people someday. But at the start, I think we''ll aim for five or six. Plus, I''d like to hire non-dungeon-related streamers too."


    For example, virtual streamers.


    Virtual streamers have become incredibly popular recently, so if we can secure some talent, it''ll generate good revenue. That said, since I want the focus to remain on dungeon streaming, I don''t plan to hire too many.


    "We could try scouting promising talents, but it might be better to advertise and hold open interviews. That way, we can attract people who are just starting out too."


    "Yeah... If we only scout people, we''d end up limited to those already doing dungeon streams."


    "Exactly. I''ll announce the recruitment on my channel to attract applicants."


    This is where having a large subscriber base really comes in handy. I doubt we''ll end up with zero applicants.


    "So, here''s the plan: We''ll conduct a document screening at the end of February, and the interviews will take place in early March. We''re recruiting dungeon streamers¡ªand two or three virtual streamers as well."


    : You''re doing virtual streams too?


    : Maybe focus on dungeon streams first?


    : Are you seriously branching out into virtual streaming?


    : I guess dungeon streaming alone isn''t enough, huh.


    "We''ll give streamers the freedom to stream from anywhere, so they don''t need to live near Tokyo. Though it''d be nice if they were based in Japan."


    We can always cover travel expenses if needed, so I''ll hire talented people even if they live in Okinawa or Hokkaido.


    : For real? I''ll apply if you do remote interviews.


    : Can''t you just do remote interviews?


    : Will travel expenses be covered?


    : I might apply for this.


    : Why not give it a shot? S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Honestly, as long as Kisaragi-kun keeps streaming, I''m happy.


    "Remote interviews, huh... Yeah, that sounds good."


    There''s no reason interviews can''t be fully remote. I''m planning to rent office space near Shibuya Station since it''s close to the Shibuya Dungeon, but we probably won''t need streamers to gather in person that often.


    "Alright, we''re switching to fully remote interviews. For the document screening, just send your resume, the URL to your streaming channel if you have one, and a copy of your explorer license online. I figure mailing documents would be a hassle, so we''ll handle everything digitally."


    : Lol


    : That''s smart.


    : I like this approach.


    : Yeah, writing stuff by hand is such a pain.


    : Paper is better for privacy, though.


    : You can always burn paper, after all.


    I''ll also post job listings for office staff while I''m at it. As for the accountant, I''ll ask the one I usually rely on to introduce me to someone freelance.


    "Anyway, the company will officially launch in April, so if you''re interested in dungeon streaming, apply! Oh, and the current members are me, Asagao-san, and Kanakon-san."


    Experience more content on mvl


    : Seriously? I''m applying.


    : Wait, I get to meet Kanakon in real life? I''m applying for sure.


    : Here come the creeps.


    : So many people about to get rejected in the document screening.


    : Sending thoughts and prayers.


    : Stop it, or I''ll kill you.


    : Get a job, dude.


    And just like that, the journey toward building a new company begins.

 Chapter 112: Early Bird Interview

    "So, why did you come here for just a simple interview?""Well, I wanted to see the people who might become my coworkers, right?"


    It''s the end of February, and while my classmates were still stressed out with their entrance exams, most of them had calmed down after the early admissions ended and were now preparing for graduation with a relaxed attitude. Of course, a few looked like they''d already lost hope, probably because things didn''t go as planned for them.


    While my peers were busy with their studies, I was here in Shibuya, organizing the office space I had leased near the station. I had to move in a bunch of furniture and shelves, as well as some office equipment to make sure the place was functional. Oddly enough, Asakawa-san was helping me out with it all, even though she didn''t have to.


    She always said she wanted to see the business take off and was always willing to lend a hand.


    After all, this was a big step for me¡ªthis office would be the base for the new company I''d just started. The interviews today would be for dungeon streamers and staff, and I had a lot riding on this. Honestly, I was a little nervous, but I trusted my gut when it came to reading people. Besides, I wasn''t interested in grilling the candidates with boring, formal questions.


    I just needed a feel for whether they''d fit in or not.


    At the scheduled time, I sat down in front of the computer, turned on the camera, and connected to the first candidate. The screen blinked to life, revealing a young man in his late twenties, dressed in a suit and looking extremely nervous. I had specifically mentioned in the email that casual attire was fine, but I guess wearing a suit for interviews is ingrained in Japanese culture.


    "Hello, this is Tsukasa Kisaragi."


    "H-hello... the real deal!"


    "Yep, it''s really me."


    I mean, if a fake showed up, that''d be a different kind of interview, wouldn''t it? I chuckled to myself.


    "Can you introduce yourself briefly? I''ve got your resume here, so no need for the details." Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Ah, yes! My name is R-Rintaro Dobayashi!"


    "...Panda?"


    "P-Panda?! H-how did you know that...?"


    I glanced down at his resume again. Rintaro Dobayashi was a 29-year-old dungeon explorer with a D-rank, which was pretty decent. His voice, though, sounded strangely familiar. I took a wild guess¡ªbased on the nickname I remembered hearing in dungeon streaming circles¡ªand, lo and behold, I was right.


    "So, Panda means you''re the streamer Dodo Rinrin, right? I didn''t expect an active dungeon streamer for the first interview!"


    "Wait, I''m the first one!?"


    "Yep. Honestly, I had a lot of applicants, so I cut a bunch of people based on their documents. I didn''t want to waste time interviewing every single one."


    To be honest, the sheer number of applications I received caught me off guard. I hadn''t expected so many people to be interested in joining a small startup like mine. But by reviewing resumes and dungeon explorer licenses, I could get a rough idea of each candidate. If I ended up missing out on a great talent, well, that''d just be my responsibility.


    Dodo Rinrin, also known as Panda, had been a dungeon streamer for a while now. He''d always joked on his streams about wanting to join a company, but I didn''t think he''d actually apply. His real name was Rintaro Dobayashi, but viewers started calling him Panda because his streamer name, Dodo Rinrin, apparently sounded cute and cuddly like a panda.


    The nickname had stuck, and now it seemed like part of his brand.


    "Shall we continue with the interview?"


    "Y-yes, please!"


    "Are you okay with being called Panda by your viewers?"


    "W-well, if it makes it easier for them, I guess it''s fine..."


    "Good to know. You''re hired."


    "Wait, isn''t that a bit too fast?"


    "Whoa!? Asagao-san is here too...?" Panda exclaimed, noticing Asakawa in the background for the first time.


    I might seem hasty, but when it comes to someone with Panda''s popularity and talent, there''s no reason to delay things. His personality, willingness to adapt, and his established audience made him a perfect fit. Plus, he''d always been clear about wanting to join a company, so why not give him that opportunity?


    "Dobayashi-san, I''d like you to continue working as Dodo Rinrin. Your current audience knows you as Panda, and you''ve always expressed a desire to go corporate, so there won''t be any disconnect with your viewers."


    "W-wow, you''re really informed!"


    "Well, I''ve done my homework on promising dungeon streamers."


    Dungeon streaming is a competitive field. Many of the popular streamers focus on exploring the middle levels of dungeons, playing it relatively safe to build up their audience. But Panda was different. He liked to explore various dungeons, and he wasn''t afraid to push the boundaries a bit. That, combined with his potential as a dungeon explorer, made him a strong candidate.


    "Alright, we''ll wrap things up here. I''ll send you the paperwork. Do you prefer physical copies or digital?"


    "P-physical, please..."


    "Got it."


    "Is it really okay for this to be so casual?" Panda asked, sounding unsure.


    "For small offices like ours, it''s usually like this. I don''t see the need to drag things out longer than necessary."


    "So this is what the new generation''s like... you guys are too bright for an old man like me."


    Panda was a genuinely fun person. He had a vibe that was different from anyone else I''d met so far, but I could see similarities to people like Aizawa-san, who I respected a lot.


    After wrapping up the call, I felt good. Landing someone like Panda right off the bat was a big win, and it gave me a little confidence boost for the rest of the interviews.


    "Is this how you normally handle interviews?" Asakawa asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "Why not? I trust my instincts. Besides, I don''t think my judgment is that bad."


    "Your judgment isn''t bad, but sometimes your perspective goes in unexpected directions."


    "My thinking?"


    "No, your viewpoint."


    Maybe she was right. But I didn''t see it as a flaw, so I shrugged it off.


    "Alright, let''s get to the next interview. Looks like the others are waiting."


    "Do you always tell people immediately if they''re hired?"


    "No, I only did that with Panda because he''s already established and I''m confident he''ll be a great fit. For the other candidates, I''ll send them an email later with the results."


    With Panda on board, I now had four confirmed streamers. Ideally, I''d like to recruit another two or three people, preferably beginners who hadn''t started exploring dungeons yet. While experienced streamers have their advantages, there''s also value in nurturing new talent. It would be great if people started seeing our company as a place where they could grow into skilled explorers.


    "By the way, what''s with the company name?" Asakawa asked suddenly.


    "What about it?"


    "early bird? What''s that supposed to mean?"


    "It means ''early riser.'' You know, like the saying: ''The early bird gets the worm.'' It''s a phrase I like."


    It was a simple name, but I figured something easy to remember would help. Besides, I genuinely believed in the benefits of waking up early and getting a head start on things. Maybe I''d even make it the company''s motto¡ª"The early bird gets the worm."


    It wasn''t just a name; it was an approach to life and business.


    By the end of the day, we had gone through multiple interviews. Each one had its own unique energy, but none quite like Panda''s. I felt good about where things were heading, and despite the challenges that lay ahead, I knew we were building something special.


    It wasn''t just about me anymore¡ªthis company would soon be a place where dungeon explorers could thrive and share their adventures with the world. Read latest stories on mvl


    With that thought, I closed my laptop and glanced around the half-furnished office. There was still a lot to do, but I felt a sense of accomplishment. This was the start of something big, and I was ready for it.

 Chapter 113: Early Bird Takes Flight

    "Hello, this is Tsukasa Kisaragi. Today, I''ll just be chatting about various things from our new office location.": Good morning


    : I got rejected in the document screening (angry)


    : I got rejected too


    : I didn''t even have an explorer license


    : Congrats on starting your company, Kisaragi-kun


    : I thought about applying for the office position, but it seemed like a hassle, so I gave up


    "To those saying they got rejected, I offer my prayers. To be honest, I rejected over 90% of applicants based on their documents alone, so I didn''t even interview most of them."


    : Seriously?


    : No wonder everyone''s talking about being rejected


    : So you actually did interviews?


    : Can you really tell just from documents?


    : Sounds like you had set criteria for selection


    : Well, it''s your company, so you can run it however you want, right?


    Yep... I was looking at their magic levels and backgrounds, and there just weren''t that many who cleared the cut-off point I set. I did do remote interviews for a few who made it past, but some got rejected even there.


    "In the end, only three people passed the interview and got hired. The number of available slots was limited to begin with."


    : Only three!?


    : That''s so few


    : You mean for dungeon streamers, right?


    : Yeah, they''re still recruiting for office staff, aren''t they?


    : I kinda wanted to be a dungeon streamer too


    : Becoming one is easy. Just get your explorer license, buy a camera, and start streaming in a dungeon


    : True


    : Well, becoming one is easy, but...


    Looking at the flood of resumes we received, I realized that while many people had an explorer license, a lot of them had never actually gone into a dungeon. We sent out a questionnaire to the applicants, and about 80% of them responded that they got the license just to have it on their resume but had no actual dungeon experience.


    That explains the huge number of G-rank explorers. They''re not even sticking to the upper floors¡ªthey''ve never even set foot inside a dungeon.


    "I''ll introduce the people who passed next month... or, actually, in two weeks."


    : Oh, nice


    : Looking forward to it


    : So Kisaragi-kun''s finally a corporate-affiliated streamer...


    : More like, he''s an entrepreneur streamer, right?


    : Lol


    : It''s funny because he literally started his own company


    : Yeah, that cracked me up too


    "As for virtual streamers, we haven''t started recruiting yet, but we''re planning to do so around June... so if anyone''s interested, polish your skills until then."


    : What skills?


    : Streaming skills, duh


    : Uh, right...


    : Polish your skills¡ªor your voice, I guess


    : Can you even polish your voice?


    "Anyway, the real dilemma I''m facing is figuring out how to drag the new streamers into the depths of hell."


    : Huh?


    : Suddenly glad I didn''t make it (changed stance)


    : Why is it a given that you''ll be dragging them around?


    : So that''s the kind of stream this is...


    : RIP to those who passed


    Once someone becomes a member of the company, it''s like they''re under my wing. That means it''s my responsibility to make sure they can survive as explorers. And the best way to get stronger is to take them through hell. At least, that''s how my grandma raised me. I''m not saying they need to reach the deepest layers, but I''d like them to at least be able to handle the lower layers consistently.


    It might sound extreme, but being able to handle the lower layers is essential if they want to stand out and survive in the current streaming landscape. Just streaming from the mid-layers isn''t going to cut it anymore. I''ve heard that a lot of people are trying out the mid-layers after watching my streams, but there are still only a few who can manage the lower layers.


    If you want to build a stable, popular career as a dungeon streamer, being able to handle the lower layers is a must.


    "I need to see them face-to-face, observe how they handle themselves in a dungeon, and give advice... but we''ll take it slow. As for ''Early Bird,'' I plan to turn everyone into lower-layer explorers, so if you''re planning to apply for the second round of recruitment, be ready."


    : Is it that easy to become a lower-layer explorer?


    : Well... with Kisaragi-kun and Asagao-chan as examples, yeah


    : But Kanacon-chan can''t go to the lower layers yet, right?


    : Kanacon is still in the mid-layers, but given her talent, she''ll probably be ready for the lower layers soon


    : Hopefully, she won''t face the same power issues as Asagao-chan


    "Regarding Kanacon-san''s power, I''ve already figured out how to handle that, so I expect she''ll be able to start exploring the lower layers soon."


    Miyamoto-san, who struggles to turn her magic into usable forms like spells, has been putting all her magic into her weapon and physical abilities. She''s currently looking for a new weapon. After asking me for advice a few months ago, she''s been doing a lot of research but hasn''t decided on anything yet.


    When she joined ''Early Bird,'' I told her we''d provide a weapon for her, but that means I need to gather some materials. I''ll probably do that on one of my streams soon, once things settle down.


    "As for Asagao-san, she''s been making her own spears from materials, but she hardly ever fights with them anymore... her style is starting to resemble Kamishiro-san''s."


    : Totally get that sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : She used to use spears to make up for her lack of magic power, but now that her magic has improved, she doesn''t need them as much Experience tales at mvl


    : She''s becoming a magic gorilla


    : At this point, does she even need the spear?


    Yeah... The spear is still great as a secondary weapon, but with Asagao-san''s unique vision that lets her see magic, her control of magic flow is so good that she almost doesn''t need it anymore.


    "Anyway, we''ll be supporting the streamers who join us, so I want them to dive into dungeons and push themselves. We''ll also have donation functions enabled for their streams, so if you like what you see, feel free to donate to them."


    : What about you?


    : Kisaragi-kun''s donation function when?


    : Let us throw money at you


    : I want to support Kisaragi-kun, so let us donate


    : So many people want to throw money at him lol


    : The guy''s already rich; throwing money at him won''t be as fun


    : Doesn''t matter, I still want to throw money at him


    "I was thinking of keeping donations off for my own streams... but do you think I should enable it? I do plan to have a paid subscription model with members-only content, but I''m not planning on doing many exclusive streams."


    : Just do it


    : Doesn''t matter, just set it up


    : No need for exclusive streams, it''s fine


    : You can use all the donation money for the company, so just set it up


    : Implement donations to fund the office


    : With your viewer count, you''ll easily raise money if you set it up


    Hmm... I thought people would hate it if I enabled donations, but I guess not? Alright, maybe I''ll enable it starting in April. It would make things feel more official for the company''s streamers anyway.

 Chapter 114: A New Dawn for Early Bird

    "Graduation ceremony... Once this is over, I won''t be a high school student anymore. Many of my classmates seem to be feeling the weight of it, with some saying tearful goodbyes and others crying out of sadness.Recently, due to global warming, there have been times when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom before the graduation ceremony, or conversely, the ceremony happens before the blossoms bloom. This year, though, the flowers have bloomed perfectly in time for graduation season."


    "Ah, there you are."


    "Hm?"


    While I was standing by the school gate, staring blankly at the cherry blossoms, Asakawa-san and her friend, Nonohara-san, came over. The only people I really got close to during high school were Asakawa-san and Nonohara-san.


    "I''m gonna miss graduation so much... Nanami and Kisaragi-kun aren''t even going to university."


    "Is it really that bad?"


    "To be honest, graduation hasn''t really hit me that hard."


    "But you had so much fun during the school trip!"


    Well... true. It was the first time I ever enjoyed a school trip. It served as a nice break from studying for exams, and everyone seemed to have fun. I guess it''s a good thing that our school trip happened in our third year. Lately, more schools have been doing it in the second year instead.


    "I''ll definitely watch all your streams... I''ll send a message after every one with my thoughts."


    "You don''t have to go that far..."


    "Why not just let Nonohara-san do as she likes?"


    It seems like a lot of people are choosing to go to university these days. Many even take out student loans to afford it because it''s tough to get a job without a degree in today''s world. There are so many companies that only hire fresh graduates now.


    "Even after we graduate, we''ll definitely meet again, right?! Even if you and Nanami become super famous!"


    "Hmm... I think Kisaragi-kun is already famous."


    "Is that the point?"


    People who say, "Let''s definitely meet again someday!" usually never do. Introverts remember those promises and get excited about them, but in reality, no one else remembers. Well, a lot happened, but... with this, my high school life has come to an end. I didn''t really do anything "youthful" until my third year, but at least I met Asakawa-san and became friends. That was good...


    though we''ll be working together starting in April.


    A few weeks after graduation, April came quickly. There''s a saying that humans experience half of their life''s perceived time by the age of 19, but I guess you can''t truly understand that until you''re over 19. At least for me, the time from the graduation ceremony to this first week of April passed incredibly fast.


    "Well... good morning."


    "Good morning!"


    "Uh, good morning?"


    We were in the completed office, greeting the employees who would be working with us. In the end, the employees I quickly hired for ''early bird'' totaled 12 people: 5 streamers, 2 young tax accountants who were introduced to me, and 5 office workers who would also serve as managers. As the CEO, I''m not counted among them.


    "Well... I''ll just say this upfront, I''m hoping we can take things pretty easy for now. We''ll start thinking more seriously when the company grows, but for now, we''re still pretty small."


    To grow the company, the first thing we need to do is boost the popularity of the streamers we have. That said, we already have quite an impressive lineup: Asakawa-san, who has hundreds of thousands of subscribers; Miyamoto-san, who is approaching 100,000; and Douba Rin, who has tens of thousands of followers.


    "Do we need to do introductions?"


    "That can wait, don''t you think? I doubt anyone here applied without knowing who you are, Tsukasa-kun."


    Everyone nodded in agreement at Asakawa''s words. Hmm... it''s true, I''ve already met all of these people in person or interviewed them, so I know all their faces and names as well as their profiles. I guess it''s fine to let the employees introduce themselves to each other on their own, without forcing it. As an introvert, the idea of mandatory introductions sounds pretty rough to me. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright, streamers, let''s get started with a quick introduction stream now. Thanks!"


    "Got it!"


    We already announced it on social media, so I expect a lot of viewers, even though it''s a weekday afternoon.


    By the way, the streamers will be streaming as often as possible, while the office workers get weekends off. If anything goes wrong, I''ll handle it.


    Renting office space near Shibuya Station isn''t cheap, but cutting corners there would be a mistake, so I made sure to rent two floors. One is for the office staff and tax accountants to work, and the other is a larger space that we can use for various streams.


    We''ll be working with two full floors¡ªone for streaming and one for everything else.


    "Alright, hello... The company equipment is still being set up, so I''m greeting you from my personal camera."


    : Hello?


    : Is this the streamer intro?


    : Finally, moving into the startup phase


    : It''s not corporate; it''s a startup phase, right?


    : You started your own company, so yeah, it''s a startup


    : I''ve been waiting for this!


    "The first introduction is from Kisaragi Tsukasa of [Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel]... That''s me."


    : A model CEO, leading by example


    : Also happens to be Japan''s strongest


    : We know who you are


    : Isn''t this already your channel, Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel?


    : Aren''t you going to make a dedicated ''early bird'' channel?


    "Do we need that? I think everyone can just keep using their own channels, don''t you?"


    : Of course you need it


    : So laid back


    : That''s the Kisaragi we know


    : Classic Kisaragi move


    Can you stop making me sound like I have no plan?


    "Alright, next up."


    "Me! I''m Asagao!"


    : Asagao-chan! ^^


    : Still the healing presence, as always


    : Though she''s starting to seem more and more non-human


    : Curse you, Kisaragi, for turning the healing presence into a monster


    : So much resentment, lol


    "I have nothing to do with that. Asagao is pursuing power on her own; I am not responsible. I declare myself innocent."


    Explorers are people who seek power, after all.


    "I''m... Kanacon. I''ve taken off the mask."


    : Did we just see her face!? Stay updated with §Þ??


    : Kanacon is way more beautiful than I imagined


    : She''s finally showing her face


    : No mask?


    : Is she showing her face now because she''s a corporate streamer?


    : She''s unbelievably gorgeous


    : I didn''t expect her to be this beautiful¡ªI''m speechless


    : I think I might switch from being an Asagao fan to a Kanacon fan


    "Uh, thank you?"


    "For the person who said they''re switching, I''ve memorized your name, okay?"


    : Yikes


    : You better apologize


    : You''re about to get obliterated


    So far, these are people I''ve collaborated with before, so the audience is familiar with them. From here on, the new members will be introduced. I hope the viewers welcome them warmly, even if it''s a bit rough around the edges. Honestly, I trust the audience enough not to be too worried about it.

 Chapter 115: Meet the New Dungeon Streaming Crew

    "Me, Asakawa-san, and Miyamoto-san... the viewers were used to seeing the three of us, so there wasn''t much of a reaction. Well, there was quite a big reaction when Miyamoto-san showed her face for the first time, though.": The real show starts now


    : These are the top 1% of applicants


    : The warriors who made it past the document screening and weren''t eliminated in the interviews


    : Insane odds, lol


    : Can''t be helped


    "Hello to everyone who''s seeing me for the first time! And to those who always watch me, thank you! It''s Doudou Rinrin here!"


    : Huh?


    : Isn''t that Panda?!


    : Oh, it''s just Panda


    : Hey Panda, it''s time to send you back to China


    : Still in Japan, huh? We told you already, the rental fees are too high¡ªsend the Panda back!


    "Wait, really?! I was told by Kisaragi-san that if I greeted everyone with high energy, it would get everyone hyped!"


    Of course, that was a lie. I had already checked out how Douba Rin (aka Panda) was treated during his streams, so I figured that if he started with a high-energy greeting, those who knew him from my audience would react exactly like this. I also knew that getting this kind of response would allow him to show off his strengths. Simply put, he''s the type of person who gets teased a lot.


    : Totally getting treated like a Panda, lol


    : Congrats on joining the company


    : So that''s why you were so energetic recently


    : Now you''re a company Panda


    : Not a corporate streamer, but a corporate Panda


    : Well, you are a Panda


    "I''m not a Panda! I''m a dungeon streamer, not a Panda! ''Panda'' is just a nickname!"


    : But you''re still a Panda


    : A Panda is still a Panda


    : First time seeing him, but this guy''s hilarious


    : Panda, you''re the best comedian ever


    : He''s basically a comedian, lol


    : Wait, isn''t he a dungeon streamer?


    : He''s a trained Panda, right?


    "Kisaragi-san?!"


    "It''s going as planned."


    : Lmao


    : Classic us


    : We knew it


    : You got tricked, man


    It looks like the viewers caught on quickly. They realized right away that I''d deliberately told him to greet them that way. It irks me a bit to be lumped in with the audience like that, but I''ll admit that we have similar sensibilities.


    "Alright, let''s have Panda step back, and move on to the next introduction."


    "Panda?!?"


    I''m planning to let Douba Rin (Panda) handle the playful banter with the viewers that I can''t do myself. Well, even if it''s supposed to be playful, it often ends up with him getting roasted, but I''ll overlook that for now. Still, I''m confident in his ability to succeed as a dungeon explorer. Just like Miyamoto-san, he''s got the talent.


    "Next up, it''s me!"


    "Okay, go ahead."


    "Hello, I''m Mimika! I dropped out of university and decided to become a streamer with early bird! I just turned 20!"


    "Hmm, you didn''t need to introduce your age."


    "What? Really?"


    : Did we just get a cute but kinda dumb girl?


    : Lol


    : Is that an insult or a compliment?


    : What part of that was a compliment?


    Mimika''s real name is Tennouji Ayase. During her interview, she showed such intense passion that I decided to hire her. Apparently, she had drifted into university without really knowing what she wanted to do and was on the verge of failing out. That''s when she decided to try becoming a dungeon explorer instead of getting a part-time job.


    However, with no one knowledgeable about dungeon exploration at her university, she couldn''t get any proper guidance... until she saw the recruitment announcement in one of my streams and thought, "This is it!"


    "I''m a complete beginner when it comes to dungeons! This is also my first time streaming! I''m totally new, so please take care of me!"


    : Hmm, she''s cute


    : She''s got a real sunshine vibe


    : Is she a gyaru?


    : She sounds a bit dumb, but I think she''s smart underneath


    : She feels a bit like an airhead


    : Which is it?


    I didn''t hire her just because of her passion, though. The university she dropped out of was a prestigious public university. She said she just "drifted into" college admissions, but honestly, I can''t even comprehend that level of intelligence. She''s probably on par with Asakawa, who always ranked first in her grade. I was honestly shocked when I saw her r¨¦sum¨¦. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Though she speaks casually, during the interview, she showed glimpses of real intelligence, which is why I hired her. I also believe she has enough talent to become a successful dungeon explorer.


    "Alright, last up."


    "Yes! My name is Kishiya Douman, and I''ll be joining early bird. Please take care of me!"


    : Ah, another newbie


    : So, three existing streamers and two new ones, huh?


    : Don''t forget Kisaragi, that makes four streamers


    : A CEO-streamer combo


    : What a cute kid


    : It''s a guy, though


    : That''s what makes it good


    : ¡á!?!?


    The last member is Kishiya Douman. His real name is Ashiya Shunta. At 23, he''s close in age to Miyamoto-san. He originally aimed to be a full-time dungeon explorer, but ended up working part-time jobs to support himself while barely exploring dungeons. Honestly, it seemed like he was so weak that his time would be better spent just working instead of dungeon crawling.


    But his combat style makes solo exploration difficult, so it couldn''t be helped. Ideally, he should always be exploring with at least one or two other people.


    I hired him simply because he''s a good, earnest person with a unique and fascinating fighting style. Above all, his desperation to succeed as a low-level explorer showed real passion. He definitely has the potential to grow into a great dungeon explorer. Explore new worlds at §Þ??


    "So, from now on, I, Asagao-san, Kanacon-san, Douba Rin (Panda), Mimika-san, and Kishiya Douman-san will be the initial early bird dungeon streamers."


    : Initial?


    : Are you planning a second wave?


    : He mentioned it before


    : He said those who apply for the second wave better be ready to be dragged through hell


    "Wait! Are we really going to be dragged through hell?"


    "Come on, I told you I''d train you until you''re able to solo the lower floors. Exploring the lower floors is much tougher than you''d imagine."


    "That''s true."


    : Asagao agrees


    : The voice of experience


    : Asagao nodding hard, lol


    : She''s a beast in the lower floors now, but she almost died there a lot in the beginning


    : Are the new recruits going to face the same fate?


    : RIP newbies


    "Yikes!"


    "Bring it on!"


    "I''ll do my best, Kishiya Douman won''t give up!"


    "Why is Panda the only one acting hesitant? You''re a senior, so show some confidence!"


    Honestly, I''m not too worried about Douba Rin (Panda).


    Now that we''ve finished introducing the streamers... my next stream will be as Kisaragi Tsukasa, representing early bird.

 Chapter 116: Thread 15: Early Bird Takes Flight

    1: Anonymous Explorerearly bird official website ¡ý


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    SNS account ¡ý


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    There''s talk about whether or not they''ll create a group streaming account, too.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ¨C CEO and affiliated streamer, Rank EX


    In one word: a monster


    Channel ¡ý


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    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Asagao ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank C


    Strong enough to dominate the lower levels and could easily become Rank A


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Kanacon ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank D


    A gorilla swinging a two-handed axe, which you wouldn''t expect from her appearance


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    2: Anonymous Explorer


    Doudou Rinrin ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank D


    A shield-wielding, poking, cowardly Panda


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Mimika ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank G


    A complete beginner in streaming, so no information yet


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Kishiya Douman ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank G


    Also a complete beginner in streaming, so no information yet


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    Experience more on §Þ??


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks for starting the thread.


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thread OP, good job.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    You''re quick on the draw with this thread.


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    You''re good at making templates. It''s a bit long, but it''s easy to understand, so it''s fine.


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m surprised Kisaragi took on two complete beginners¡­ He must really be confident in his ability to train people.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    I was almost in tears when someone picked up Panda... Good for him.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾8


    Are you his grandma? LOL


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    To be fair, Panda''s been saying for a while that he wanted to become a corporate-affiliated virtual streamer. He even said he''d quit being a dungeon explorer if it meant becoming a corporate-affiliated streamer.


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, now he''s hit the jackpot, becoming a corporate streamer while still being a dungeon explorer.


    Though he''s still a Panda.


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi calling him "Panda" too is just too funny.


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi actually does a lot more research on dungeon streamers than I thought. He even properly evaluated Kanacon, who wasn''t all that famous. And he understood exactly how Panda''s streams worked before teasing him.


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾13


    It''s not just that he''s good at research¡ªhe''s great at focusing on the important parts and cutting out the fluff. He understands what''s necessary and doesn''t waste time.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m surprised it''s half men and half women. Usually, these kinds of things lean more towards female streamers since they''re more popular.


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a bit unexpected that Kisaragi chose people purely based on their ability as dungeon explorers, leading to a pretty even gender split.


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾15


    I think Kisaragi probably didn''t think about it that much. He just scouted and interviewed the people he thought were good. It''s more like "the fans will follow whoever I pick."


    18: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾17


    That''s the ideal approach, but reality often makes it tricky.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    £¾£¾2


    So... is this the list of people who''ll be dragged through dungeons?


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾19


    Lol.


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾19


    The main culprit is at the top of the list.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    "Culprit," LOL.


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    He is definitely on the culprit side.


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    Their first stream is tomorrow. It seems like it''ll just be a low-key beginner stream, so they''re doing it on a weekday afternoon.


    [Image]


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾24


    Yeah, it''s probably a "watch the archives if you want" kind of thing during the training period.


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Asagao and Kanacon get to mess around as they like during this training period.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    I was thinking Kanacon is still just Rank D, but Kisaragi did say that with the right weapon, she could fight in the lower levels right away.


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾27


    Kisaragi mentioned bringing back some material for her weapon that has great mana flow¡­ but will lower-level materials be enough for that?


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    He''ll definitely bring back some materials from the deep levels and be like, "Here, now you can fight in the lower levels too." That guy is ruthless.


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    But honestly, Kanacon''s kind of a battle-hungry gorilla, isn''t she? I always picture her swinging her axe around enthusiastically.


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    Breaking news: Antis, Unicorns, and haters of Kisaragi are losing their minds.


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi had been quiet for a while, so the anti-threads had calmed down, but they''re back in full force now.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾33


    Negative emotions are an infinite source of energy for humans. They can keep going endlessly when they''re driven by hate.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾31


    The antis are raging because Kisaragi implemented a donation feature for the company. Unicorns are losing it because Asagao and Kanacon are affiliated with him. And, well, the usual Kisaragi antis are just always mad.


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi ignores any slander against himself, but he already said that if it involves his company or affiliated streamers, he''ll take legal action. So, I doubt anyone will dare say anything directly.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾36


    Are you sure about that? Since Kisaragi has been ignoring slander against himself, it might escalate, and they could end up attacking the company and the streamers, leading to lawsuits.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾37


    Ah, I can see that happening. People feel emboldened because Kisaragi usually ignores everything.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, maybe they should get a reality check?


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    If that were enough to stop them, we wouldn''t have problems on the internet.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Suing for slander is just something that comes with being a famous streamer.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi might eventually hire an in-house lawyer just to deal with it, and honestly, I wouldn''t be surprised.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾42


    He''s got the money for it.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not a far-fetched idea. I mean, he''s already got two accountants at the company right after starting it.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    For real? LOL.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, what?


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    This guy is on a whole different level...


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, with corporate taxes and the streamers'' tax filings, plus the tax breaks for dungeon explorers, it makes sense to hire accountants. Given it''s a company focused on dungeon streaming, it''s only logical.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder how big early bird will become as a streaming company.


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾49


    Uh, the CEO already has over a million subscribers, you know?


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s beside the point. He''s the apprentice of the famous Jinguji Kaede, Japan''s strongest explorer, and he''s widely considered the next domestic champion. He''s popular with the otaku crowd for his streams, and he''s got a massive international following due to his dungeon prowess. There''s no way he wouldn''t hit a million.


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    But didn''t he open his channel less than a year ago?


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    When did he start the channel?


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    It was at the end of July.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s been nine months, so close enough to a year. Good enough!


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s way too laid-back, lol.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    Will early bird become a famous company? The CEO has a million subscribers, and Asagao has hundreds of thousands¡­


    It''s already famous, right?


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    LMAO.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re already famous enough, if you ask me...


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    Aren''t Kisaragi and Asagao basically the two biggest names in dungeon streaming now? If they suddenly team up and start a company, of course, it''ll get huge.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾61


    It''s like Square and Enix merging, right?


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾62


    Yeah, something like that?


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, there''s no one else in Japan who can really compete with them in dungeon streaming. Though, lately, more Rank A streamers have started showing up, probably because Kisaragi is openly sharing info from the deeper levels.


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a bit late, though. For a long time, they monopolized the information. Then, when someone way more skilled came along, they just followed along like copycats. Kinda lame, honestly.


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾65


    There was that one guy who got mad, saying Kisaragi was ruining the value of deep-level information by making it public.


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾66


    Come on, it''s clearly the ones monopolizing the info that are in the wrong. That''s why Japan''s dungeon progress has been so slow.


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾67


    (Other countries are pretty much the same, though.)


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Really?


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    The dungeon explorer community is at the point where you get people trying to cling to their privileges. Then along comes Kisaragi, who doesn''t care about any of that, and just shakes things up. Of course, a monster like him doesn''t care about human petty interests.


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, a monster.


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s beyond the concerns of mere human wealth.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    I like Mimika the best. (Sudden confession)


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾73


    You sound dumb.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    Sudden confession and immediate insult, lol.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve been a fan from the beginning, so I''ll keep rooting for Panda.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾76


    Panda is great.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾77


    Totally agree. Panda''s streams are really fun to watch.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda probably gets a lot of attention from girls. He''s got a handsome face, he''s funny, considerate, and strong.


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    True.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m still a fan of Asagao-chan.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    In the end, I think I''m a fan of the whole group... Kisaragi has said that the plan is for everyone to work hard together, so it sounds like they''ll collaborate more often rather than exploring solo.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾82 S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yeah, the main plan seems to be having them collaborate in dungeon dives, though compatibility between fighting styles is key with explorers.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, the CEO can do anything¡ªclose combat, long-range, support, full-on attack¡ªso he can pair up with anyone.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    The CEO is just too strong!


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish my company''s CEO was as capable¡­ I''ll just apply to work at early bird.


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾86


    You''ll probably fail the application, lol.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾87


    Wow, really?


    Is that a dig at me for failing the application?


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾88


    LOL, someone here actually failed.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾88


    Sending you my best wishes.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾90


    Man, that''s harsh. Time to become a Kisaragi anti.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    I bet there are people who become antis just because they failed the application. There are crazies everywhere.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    So, is Kisaragi focusing on training new talent now?


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s more like he''s going to focus on developing his inner circle, but won''t be doing much collaborating with outside streamers.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾94


    What do you mean by "outside streamers"?


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    Like other dungeon streamers. He''ll probably still work with the EX ranks, though.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    EX ranks don''t really "collaborate"; they''re more like special guests.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like a family guest appearance, lol.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, family. Kisaragi is definitely the youngest of the bunch.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m excited about a company focused on dungeon streaming. It may not be in high demand, but I wish Kisaragi would stream something other than dungeon exploring¡­ Maybe some regular gaming streams?


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾100


    That dungeon addict? No way.

 Chapter 117: Training the Next Generation

    "Hi everyone, it''s Asagao! Since I finally joined a company, today I''ll be collaborating with my fellow members! So, I''m here with Kanacon today!""Uh... Hello, this is Kanacon, and I''ve started showing my face now. Nice to meet you!"


    :I love Asagao-chan


    :I love Kanacon-chan


    :Which one, lol


    :Asagao-chan has gone corporate now


    :Today''s guest is a beauty


    I was watching the archive of Asakawa-san and Miyamoto-san''s stream from yesterday, and I couldn''t help but notice something different about the comments section. I don''t mean to be rude, but it seems like the hardcore fans who were obsessed with them are gone... or something like that?


    I''m just speculating, but maybe it''s because they joined a company where there are men involved? I don''t really understand that kind of mentality, but recently, even my anti-threads have been getting pretty active.


    "What are you watching?"


    "...Yesterday''s archive."


    "Oh, Asagao-san and Kanacon-san''s stream."


    Panda¡ªDoubayashi-san¡ªpeeked at my phone screen from behind.


    It''s just before 7 AM on a weekday, and both Panda and I were sitting on a bench near Shibuya Dungeon, waiting for Ashiya and Tennoji to arrive. The goal today is, of course, to help the three of them level up. Specifically, we aim to raise Ashiya and Tennoji''s explorer rank from G to E.


    "Oh, sorry to keep you waiting!"


    "Good morning, boss!"


    "...Just call me Kisaragi."


    "Eh? But you''re the boss now, so let me call you that!"


    Hmm... Tennoji-san exudes this obvious "popular kid" aura. Ashiya-san chuckles, but Panda and I share a bit of an awkward response. So, it seems like Panda leans more towards being an introvert, while Ashiya is more of an extrovert.


    Since everyone''s gathered, I send out the party request. The party rank is treated as E since I''m here. Having two G-rank members means we probably shouldn''t go to the middle levels... but honestly, even with two or three G-rank members, I think we''d be fine in the middle levels. However, today''s focus is on basic training in the upper levels, so Panda''s just along for the ride.


    "Hey everyone, it''s Kisaragi Tsukasa, and I still don''t think we need a separate channel for the company."


    :We need it


    :But even if we create one¡­


    :How about naming your channel "[early bird]Kisaragi Tsukasa ch"?


    :Well, Kisaragi will probably handle the group streams anyway, so just using his channel is fine, right?


    "...It''s surprisingly crowded for a weekday morning."


    "That''s the brilliance of a million followers... Truly a boss."


    "Boss, you''re amazing!"


    "Oh, um... yes, you''re amazing, boss."


    "You don''t have to force yourself to join in, Ashiya. As for you, Panda, you''re getting a scolding later."


    "Why!?"


    :Lol


    :Panda started it, after all


    :Panda, come on¡­


    :Poor Panda, getting treated like the company pet


    :Love the pet slot for Panda in early bird


    Even so, it''s really crowded this morning. Maybe it''s because people are commuting, or there are students who haven''t started classes yet. Also, since it''s Monday, there might be some people who are off work today.


    "As stated in the stream title and announcement, today''s goal is to train the beginners, Ashiya Douman and Mimika, to be able to dominate the upper levels and reach Rank E by the end of the day."


    "...That''s weird. It took me about a year to go from F to E, didn''t it?"


    :Panda is just normal


    :Kisaragi''s the one who''s crazy. Don''t worry about it


    :Panda is actually talented, too


    :But Panda must have been evaluated as talented by Kisaragi to be accepted, right?


    "I asked everyone to bring a weapon that matches their preferred combat style today..."


    "Yep, I''ve got my usual."


    "Me too!"


    "I... I brought mine as well."


    Since Panda has been streaming for a while, I already know his fighting style. His self-enhancement through magic is ridiculously strong, and he fights using a large shield and spear, attacking cautiously when there''s an opening. It''s a solid, if somewhat overly cautious, style. Online, he''s often called "The Shield-Stabbing Chicken Panda."


    Tennoji, as usual, has only a small dagger. And Ashiya is holding a bow. This matches what I knew about them from their interviews.


    :Mimika-chan with just a dagger? S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    :That''s a bit reckless¡­


    :Ashiya-kun has a bow but no arrows, lol


    :They''re still rookies after all


    :That''s quite the unusual setup


    :Meanwhile, Kisaragi just has one sword


    :But Kisaragi is basically a walking weapon, so it''s fine


    "Okay, let''s start by testing your skills on the upper-level enemies. Panda, you''ll just defend, no attacking."


    "Got it!"


    Apparently, Tennoji-san has been in the Shibuya Dungeon before, but Ashiya just moved to Tokyo from the Tohoku region after joining early bird, so this will be his first time in the Shibuya Dungeon.


    "Looks like we''ve got a few goblins coming our way."


    "Let''s go!"


    Oh, she''s charging in without waiting for instructions.


    Against five goblins, Tennoji-san made a stabbing motion with her dagger from a distance. In the next moment, one goblin''s head burst like a crushed fruit.


    :Whoa


    :Gross


    :That''s unsettling¡­


    :What just happened?


    :No idea¡­


    :This is way too brutal


    :I apologize for underestimating her earlier


    What she did was essentially shoot magic from her dagger without solidifying it or shaping it into a proper spell. It''s not very powerful, and normally it''d be hard to hit a specific target, but Tennoji-san seems to have the knack for it.


    "Should I... go as well?"


    "It''d help."


    Tennoji had already darted off, so Ashiya slowly readied his bow. I already knew how he fought since he explained it during the interview.


    The moment he released the bowstring, a blade of wind shot out from his bow and sliced a goblin clean in half. He doesn''t use arrows but instead fires magical arrows using his bowstring.


    "...They''re much stronger than I was at G-rank."


    "Don''t worry, you''re still stronger than them now."


    "Really?"


    :Lol Explore more at §Þ??


    :Panda, you''re fine


    :Kisaragi''s analysis is always accurate¡­ probably


    :Mostly sure


    :That''s debatable, lol


    :As long as Panda blocks, he''ll be fine

 Chapter 118: The Rookie Evaluation

    "With this, I think the viewers have a pretty good understanding of how Kishitani and Mimika fight.": About 30% maybe?


    : Not really getting it, lol


    : So...one''s just shooting weird stuff from a dagger and the other uses some strange magical arrow?


    : Brutal yet accurate, lol


    : Just based on their abilities, they could totally pass as mid-layer explorers, though


    : Why are they still G-rank, then?


    : Probably because they''re beginners? Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Now, let''s go over the weaknesses we saw, shall we?"


    Just from watching that last fight, I could tell why these two are still stuck at G-rank. Well, in Kishitani''s case, it''s partly something he just can''t overcome on his own.


    "First, Mimika."


    "Yes!"


    "Hmm¡­ So, you can''t use magic, right?"


    "Eh!? How did you know that!?"


    I figured as much.


    : What''s that supposed to mean?


    : I have no idea what Kisaragi''s seeing here, lol


    : What does Kisaragi even notice that we can''t?


    "It''s similar to Kanakon¡­ you''re good at releasing raw magic, but you''re really bad at shaping it. I''d say you lack the imagination that''s crucial for using magic."


    Magic is a way to create miracles using one''s own magic power. But it requires a certain level of visualization to direct it effectively. People who have trouble multitasking are generally bad at handling magic. As for Mimika and Kanakon, though, it seems to be an innate limitation rather than just lack of experience.


    "In other words, right now, Mimika''s just shooting magic as raw power... like tossing a bullet with her bare hands instead of using a gun. Still, managing to smash a goblin''s head with just that is pretty impressive."


    : Isn''t she just a gorilla at this point?


    : Lol


    : Another magic-impaired gorilla, here we go


    : Whoever called Kanakon the "gorilla with a two-handed axe"¡ªthat''s on you


    : That''d be you


    : Isn''t it impossible to become a dungeon explorer if you can''t use magic? So, is it just raw gorilla power that gets you through?


    : In the end, physical strength is what counts


    : Yep, she''s totally a gorilla


    "So, for improvements¡­ like Kanakon, you''ll need a weapon that conducts magic more easily. Also, instead of trying to launch magic at a distance, get up close and hit them with everything you''ve got."


    "Basically?"


    "Get closer and punch harder."


    "Got it!"


    : LOL


    : Instant understanding


    : The way he explains it is hilarious


    : Is that okay, though?


    : Yep, still a gorilla


    : Love me some gorilla logic


    Yep...there''s not much else to add. There''s also the issue of her poor magic flow, but she''s still a beginner, so that''s fine. That''s why I''m diving in with her today¡ªto work on that.


    "Alright, next is Kishitani."


    "Y-yes!"


    "...Close-range weapons are absolutely not your thing, are they?"


    "You can tell?"


    From his footwork to his gaze...it''s pretty obvious. He genuinely struggles with close-range weapons, which is why he relies on a bow.


    "And, I''m guessing that if an enemy gets too close, you''re at a total loss?"


    "Yeah¡­ I just can''t seem to aim properly when they''re right in front of me."


    : Isn''t that the opposite of what you''d expect?


    : But it''s a magic bow, after all Enjoy new tales from M V L


    : I don''t understand what it''s like to shoot arrows without actual arrows


    : Is that just how it works?


    When he says "magic arrows," he''s really just shooting a magical form through his bow. He''s not actually drawing an arrow¡ªhe''s casting magic with a unique routine by pulling the bowstring. I can make a wind blade that can slice a goblin in half with my bare hands too, after all. Basically, his fighting style is like Kamishiro''s, who mainly uses magic.


    Mimika can''t use magic because she lacks the imagery to release it, whereas Kishitani uses his bow to visualize and release magic. It''s an unusual approach, making it tricky to give advice, but there is something I can suggest.


    "First, don''t even think about what to do when enemies get close."


    "What!?"


    "Your combat style was never designed for solo combat. It''s not possible."


    : LOL, "Not possible"


    : True, firing a magic arrow means he''d need someone covering him


    : Couldn''t he just boost his body and move quickly?


    : If he could do that, he''d be fine with close combat


    : So, he''s just giving it up?


    "Make sure you''re in at least a two-person team when you''re in the dungeon. That''s why you''re part of the group."


    "...Doudou, could I count on you?"


    "Me? Not the boss?"


    "Well, the boss¡­ can handle everything on his own, can''t he?"


    Yeah¡­ I guess that''s true.


    : Yep


    : Lol


    : Fair point


    : I mean, it''s not like Kisaragi needs anyone to cover him with a bow


    : If he really needed it, he''d just create a shikigami


    : One-man army


    : Kisaragi might be fine alone, honestly


    : Why is Kamishiro still exploring solo, anyway?


    : EX status


    : That label solves everything


    If Kishitani''s made his choice, I won''t say anything, but¡­ I''ll admit, I''m a little disappointed.


    "Beyond that, you two mostly need to focus on the basics. There''s also the magic flow, but¡­ that requires feeling the magic circulate internally first, which might be tricky. You can ask Asagao to help with that."


    "Wait, Asagao instead of you?"


    "Yes. She''s got this unique ability to actually see magic, so she can explain it verbally, unlike me, who just goes by feeling."


    Most explorers rely on intuition to circulate magic, but Asakawa can actually see and consciously control it. She''s far better suited for teaching this than I am.


    : Isn''t being able to see magic totally OP?


    : Yeah, that''s one of Asagao''s insane abilities


    : And it''s so powerful that even Kisaragi can''t see it, right?


    : Asagao''s secretly amazing, huh?


    : She''s obviously a hardcore explorer


    : Going straight into full-time exploring after high school is pretty intense


    "Alright, next is Doudou."


    "Oh¡­ me too?"


    "Yes. We''re not going to push you too hard, so don''t worry."


    "Alright then."


    : "Yet"


    : He''s totally being tricked


    : C''mon, Panda, are you that clueless?


    : LOL


    : When the viewers are more aware than the guy himself


    To be honest, Doudou''s fighting style could handle a bit more strain than Asagao''s. His defense is exceptional. Well¡­ I sometimes wonder if he''s too focused on shielding and doesn''t move enough, though. He also doesn''t have a solo-oriented fighting style. In that sense, he''s likely a good match for Kishitani.

 Chapter 119: Forging Bonds in the Dungeon Depths

    "Uwooooo! I can totally wreck these goblins!""You seem to be having fun."


    : Ugh, this¡­


    : I love how he''s acting all tough against weak enemies, typical cannon fodder move


    : Panda¡­ you''re just the best, man


    : Whether he''s acting cocky against weaklings or freaking out against stronger foes, I love both sides of Panda


    Despite his loud battle cry, Doumoto''s approach to fighting is simply to hide behind his massive shield and poke the goblins with his spear. This is just how he fights. Even against goblins, he never fails to raise his shield, almost like it''s an obsession. That level of defense, however, can''t be dismissed with a simple compliment¡ªit''s incredibly solid.


    I''ve met a lot of EX-rank explorers, but I don''t have much interaction with S-rankers or others below that, so I can''t really compare Doumoto''s ability. I know that Aizawa-san, who also plays the tank role, has a completely different approach¡ªmore of a dodge tank style¡ªso it''s not really comparable.


    "How''s that!"


    "Kinda¡­ dull."


    I mean, his defense is impressive, but honestly, it''s pretty dull. Taking that much time to deal with just a handful of goblins? And he''s already D-rank, too.


    : That''s the most "bland" attack I''ve seen


    : Brutal, but fair lol


    : The banter between Kisaragi and Panda is actually great


    : I love how he calls out the most boring tactics


    Discover stories at M V L


    : Accurate and savage


    "''Dull''¡­ okay, sure, but my fighting style is all about not getting hurt! This is how I do it!"


    "Yeah, I''m not saying you should change your style, dull as it may be. I''ve never seen anyone so dedicated to defense like you, so I can''t really judge. Your defense is solid, and your quick decision-making isn''t bad either. But yeah¡­ it''s dull."


    "Did you really need to say ''dull'' twice!?"


    Well, it was dull. Sure, I praised his skills, but all he did was hide behind his shield and poke at goblins one by one, unlike Tennoji-san or Ashiya-san, who have much flashier techniques.


    "Then how about you try it, boss!"


    : Uh-oh


    : Here we go¡­


    : Do not, I repeat, DO NOT unleash the monster that is Kisaragi in the upper levels


    : Someone stop him from going wild


    : It''s gonna get messy


    I saw three goblins in the distance and fired a beam¡ªwell, technically a spell¡ªfrom my hand, instantly vaporizing them.


    "There."


    "S-Sorry for talking back, sir."


    : Panda folded immediately lol


    : Go munch some bamboo and take a nap


    : That was quick, lmao


    : Why did Panda even think he could compete with an EX-rank?


    : Kisaragi is on a whole different level


    Honestly, it''s weirder to be tiptoeing around goblins. They''re not exactly tough opponents.


    "Well, I''ve now seen everyone''s basic fighting styles and the issues you need to work on. The next step will be some off-stream training¡­ maybe I''ll borrow my grandma''s dojo for a bit."


    "Your grandma¡­ as in Jinguji Kaede!? I''d love to meet her!"


    Ah, as expected. Female explorers tend to look up to my grandma. Asagao-san also admires her a lot, and now I see Tennoji-san is no different.


    "For now, that''s all for the basics¡­ let''s head to the upper layers and hunt monsters until you both hit E-rank. I''m sure you can easily reach E-rank today."


    "Yeah, considering their skill, E-rank should be a breeze. Honestly, even D-rank isn''t out of the question."


    "Well, the Association has its reasons for holding back on promotions."


    Even if someone manages to slay a bunch of monsters, promoting them too quickly could result in them getting killed in the mid-layers. We have to be cautious.


    Moving from the lowest to the upper layers, the goblins do get a bit stronger¡ªor so they say. Personally, I can''t tell the difference. Still, both Tennoji-san and Ashiya-san are handling the upper-layer goblins with ease, even taking down Steel Ants without any issues. Watching them fight, Doumoto starts muttering about how he used to run away from goblins back when he was G-rank.


    Honestly, with his overly cautious "don''t get hurt" mentality, I''m not surprised.


    : These rookies are showing a lot of promise


    : Seriously, they''re already taking down Steel Ants without any real help from Kisaragi


    : Kisaragi hasn''t even started training them yet, and they''re already this strong


    : Imagine having an EX-rank like Kisaragi training people who might go on to be S-rank someday Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Isn''t training explorers the government''s job?


    : If the government had to handle dungeon explorer training, the country would fall apart, lol


    I don''t know how far these two will go, but they''ll definitely make it through the lower layers. Whether they cap out at A-rank or push to S¡­ maybe even reach EX¡­ that''s something only time will tell.


    Honestly, becoming EX isn''t something you can achieve just by being strong. You have to be exceptional in some specific way, something that sets you apart from everyone else. A strong personality or unique skill is essential. Both Tennoji-san and Ashiya-san have distinctive traits¡ªTennoji''s raw magic release and Ashiya''s magic arrows shot exclusively through his bow. They''ve got that individuality.


    And for streaming? They''ve got potential for good content.


    "Boss."


    "It''s Kisaragi. Please, anything but ''Boss.'' How many times do I have to say this?"


    "Sure, sure¡­ so, why''d you start this company?"


    Doumoto, watching the two rookies fight from the back, started chatting with me.


    Why did I start the company¡­ well, there are a few reasons.


    "Honestly, the rise in dungeon streaming was a big factor. But I''d also heard that many explorers couldn''t make a living just from exploring and had to rely on side gigs like streaming or blogging for extra income. I thought maybe I could help stabilize that.


    Though, in the end, it feels like I''m just supporting streamers and not really doing much for explorers¡­ And yeah, I guess part of it''s just because it''s fun for me."


    "That last reason''s probably the main one, isn''t it?"


    "Yup."


    What can I say, he''s not wrong.


    , building a company just for fun


    , it''s working, so who cares


    a fanbase of over a million, Kisaragi''s company was never going to fail


    , the streams are entertaining to watch


    , honestly, just watching these makes for great content


    is doing a lot by nurturing new talent


    with Kanacon, right?


    , exactly


    It''s true that having my own company makes it easier to train explorers. And I guess, in the end, I also just wanted some companions to dive into dungeons with. Maybe that''s the real reason.

 Chapter 120: The Path to Shikigami Mastery

    After spending a few days training the newcomers, I''ve started to notice a few things. Right now, we''re borrowing my grandma''s dojo, and Asagao-san is teaching the others how to circulate their magic properly... and I''m streaming the whole thing from behind them."Hm¡­ it seems like only Kishiya-kun is having trouble with the flow."


    "I-I''m sorry."


    : Yeah, I don''t get it either, so don''t worry


    : Not sure how that''s comforting though


    : Honestly, I can''t even move my magic at all, so it''s probably a talent thing


    : I tried it for health benefits, but I''ve gotten nowhere


    : I guess moving magic around really is a talent you''re born with


    "Kishiya-san, could I talk to you for a second?"


    "M-me?"


    This guy''s special. I''ll have to be the one to teach him¡­ I guess it''s time to get grandma involved for real.


    "Asagao-san, please continue with Mimika-san and Doumoto-san. Kishiya-san, you''re coming with me. Let''s do something fun."


    It''s my first time seeing someone like him with my own eyes... someone who has the potential for shikigami magic.


    We leave the dojo and head over to the porch where grandma always drinks her tea. As expected, she''s downing a cup of green tea like it''s water. She should really savor it more.


    "Grandma."


    "Hm? Oh, it''s you."


    "He might have a talent for shikigami magic."


    "M-me? Really!?"


    "Oh?"


    Curious, grandma set her tea down and studied Ashiya-san closely.


    "Now, where did I put that book¡­"


    "Uh, that''s supposed to be a forbidden text passed down in our family..."


    "Bah, it''s defective magic. Only a select few can use it anyway. It''s not really forbidden."


    Ouch¡­ I rely on that "defective" magic for most of my battles.


    "Besides, you were the last one to read it, so why don''t you just teach him yourself?"


    "Ugh, are you going senile?"


    "I''ll smack you."


    Yeah, yeah¡­ I guess I should teach it myself. But this is all on stream¡­ should I really reveal family secrets online? Even if it''s not perfect, it''s still a big deal.


    "Not sure what you''re worried about, but you''re the one who inherited it, so do as you like. I don''t care if the world knows about that ''defective'' magic." Sear?h the ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You know, our ancestors are probably going to be pissed if they hear that..."


    Well, if grandma says it''s fine, I guess it''s fine. If Ashiya-san masters shikigami magic, he''ll be a huge asset.


    "Ahhhhh!"


    "Oh, sorry about that¡­"


    : LOL


    : Panda''s getting wrecked


    : Dude, are you even a man?


    : Poor Panda, getting tossed around by three women


    : Panda always ends up with the ladies, though


    : Hey, I''m a guy, and I like Panda too


    : That''s great, but nobody asked


    When I return to the dojo, I see Doumoto-san being casually thrown into the air by Miyamoto-san. Looks like they''ve moved on from basic circulation practice to sparring. Given Miyamoto-san''s natural sense for magic flow, Doumoto doesn''t stand a chance.


    "Good work, everyone."


    "S-sir... I just got beaten by a younger girl¡­"


    "Ahaha, don''t worry. Asagao-san''s even younger, so it''s no big deal."


    "Of course it''s a big deal!"


    Well, Miyamoto-san''s circulation is driven purely by raw talent, and Asagao-san''s ability to visually perceive magic flow is like solving a test with the answer sheet in hand. There''s no beating them in that department unless you have sheer magical output.


    If Miyamoto-san gets 100 points on a test because she''s a genius and Asagao-san gets 100 because she has all the answers, your only option is to force the grading scale to 1,000 and somehow score 1,001. It sounds dumb, but when it comes to magic, raw power and output win the day.


    "Alright, Kishiya-san, it''s time for your shikigami magic lesson."


    : Shikigami magic!?


    : Is Kishiya gonna learn how to summon spirits now!?


    : If I watch this stream, maybe I''ll learn too?


    : Hell yeah, time to become the strongest explorer!


    : Finally, my dream of controlling shikigami is within reach!


    Shikigami magic requires a certain innate talent, but mastering it isn''t too hard. The key is imagination. The amount or quality of magic only affects the strength of the shikigami, not the summoning itself.


    "First, think of a living creature. You want to build a vessel for it. The textbook says to create a physical form for the shikigami, but honestly, you can just mold it out of your magic."


    "R-really?"


    "Give it a try."


    The easiest thing to summon on the fly would be a small fairy-like creature. Picture a tiny fairy a few centimeters tall. What''s its gender? Hair style? Personality? What kind of magic is it good at?


    What do its wings look like? Its eye color? Think of everything, and let the image form.


    "''Pixie.''"


    With that, a small fairy materialized in the air.


    "Like this."


    "Mmmmm... hnnnng¡­"


    "You''re trying too hard."


    : I don''t get it either


    : Looks impossible


    : Even with talent, it''s still not happening lol


    : Kisaragi is just broken


    : The more I watch, the more I realize Kisaragi''s just not normal


    : Born to be EX


    : Natural-born EX, lol


    He''s struggling, huh? I think the problem is with Ashiya-san''s imagination. Creating a living thing from scratch is pretty tough for anyone. But once you succeed the first time, it''s usually easier. It''s all about building that initial confidence.


    "Maybe don''t force yourself to focus on living creatures. Personally, I can''t imagine anything moving unless it''s alive, but you might not have that issue."


    "Something¡­ not alive?"


    Ah, his magic''s shifting.


    "''Shadow Puppet!''"


    As Ashiya-san clasped his hands together and called out, a human-shaped shadow crawled out from beneath his feet¡­ but¡­


    "It''s tiny."


    : LOL


    : Yeah, that''s pretty small


    : Like, 10 centimeters?


    Explore more at M V L


    : Is this even usable in a fight?


    : Definitely needs more training


    : Baby steps, man


    A super tiny shadow puppet. That''s probably the best Ashiya-san can do right now. As he gets stronger, his shikigami will naturally become more powerful¡ªthat''s the great thing about this magic. However, it''s also a drawback since weak summoners create weak shikigami.


    To be fair, "Shadow Puppet" isn''t strictly shikigami magic. It''s more of a derivative spell that uses similar principles. But hey, my necromancy is also a bit off the beaten path, so I''ll let it slide.

 Chapter 121: Bone Hunter

    Materials that are excellent for conducting magic include wood. Perhaps because plants fall under the category of living organisms, wood is especially adept at channeling magic, much like the human body. For example, when someone proficient in magic circulation uses a wooden sword, it might cut better than a poorly crafted iron blade.Similarly, bone materials, which are also derived from living organisms, are prized as magic-conducting materials, though they fall slightly short compared to wood. Although acquiring bones is more troublesome than wood, history shows that they can be easily processed into bone weapons, making them highly valuable.


    And that''s why I want bones from a monster found in the deeper layers of the dungeon. Specifically, I''m looking for a large enough bone to craft a battle axe. Obviously, the person I''m making this for is Miyamoto-san.


    "So, when thinking about monsters that leave behind bones as materials... the first thing that came to mind was the Skull Dragon."


    : Never heard of it


    : Why do you always go to the deep layers¡­


    : Here he goes again, casually streaming from the deep layers solo


    : What are you talking about? It''s been a while since he''s done a solo deep dive


    : Last time was the Nagoya Dungeon, so... a few months ago?


    : Yeah, sounds about right


    : But, seriously, solo streaming in the deep layers is not normal, man


    : I forgot how extreme this guy is, probably because of all the newbie training recently


    The Skull Dragon is exactly what it sounds like: a dragon made entirely of bones. It''s a monster that swims in magma in the Aso Dungeon, located at the foot of Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture. Since I''m trying to craft a crucial weapon that Miyamoto-san will likely use for a long time, I made the trip all the way to Kyushu just to get these materials.


    "The Aso Dungeon doesn''t get much attention, does it? I bet a lot of you have never even heard of it."


    : Huh? I''m from there, I know it!


    : Never heard of it


    : I know Mt. Aso, but not Aso Dungeon


    : Are there even dungeons in Kyushu?


    : Okinawa, Kumamoto, Fukuoka, Kagoshima


    : I didn''t even know Aso Dungeon had deep layers


    : Of course, it does


    : Not every dungeon has deep layers, though


    The reason Aso Dungeon is so obscure is simply that it''s not that rewarding. The monsters there are mostly skeleton-based or adapted to high heat, but they don''t drop large magic stones. There aren''t that many monsters either, so while it''s better than Hachioji Dungeon, it''s still pretty inefficient for making money. Plus, there''s a more lucrative and popular dungeon nearby: Fukuoka Dungeon.


    So, yeah¡­ it''s no surprise Aso Dungeon flies under the radar.


    I''ve been talking a lot of smack about Aso Dungeon, but that''s only from the perspective of an average explorer. To those with certain needs, Aso Dungeon can be a gold mine.


    "It''s actually really popular with blacksmiths, though." S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Totally agree (as a blacksmith)


    : Wait, there are blacksmiths here?


    : Of course, man, you never know who shows up in Kisaragi''s streams


    : This stream is so random


    : Please put more Aso Dungeon bone materials on the market!


    : Nah, I''ll sell you Fukuoka Dungeon materials instead


    : Nooo, Fukuoka Dungeon stuff is overpriced!


    : Isn''t Aso Dungeon''s stuff even pricier?


    : Sure, but it''s better quality, from what I hear


    "But, you know, if I flood the market with too much of it, people get mad. There''s always someone who complains about the rarity factor."


    : I don''t care, just flood the market


    : The blacksmiths are fuming, lol


    : Bone weapons are so expensive, man


    : Is your sword made of bone too, Kisaragi?


    "This? Nah, it''s made of regular ore. I''m not really into swords that much."


    : Yeah, figured


    : We all knew that


    : Come on, take more pride in your weapon!


    : He really doesn''t care about swords, huh


    What can I say? I don''t collect weapons as a hobby, and I''m not even that good at wielding them. Lately, I''ve mostly been in the backline, shooting beams during group dungeon runs. Let the others handle close combat. Miyamoto-san and Doumoto-san are our dedicated frontline fighters in the company, anyway.


    : What exactly are you doing right now?


    : Doesn''t it look obvious?


    : Bro, all I see is you throwing rocks at magma¡­


    : Same here, I''m confused


    : Yeah, no one knows what''s going on


    "The Skull Dragon swims in the lava. So, I''m throwing rocks and waiting for it to come out. I came all the way here wanting its bones, but it could take hours for one to appear. Maybe I''ll get lucky and see one after a few hours."


    Skull Dragons are pretty rare. I''m on the 72nd floor of Aso Dungeon, and I''ve already been sitting here, chucking rocks into the lava, for about an hour. Exploring dungeons requires a lot of patience.


    "Just so you know, if you get bored and start watching videos on your phone, you might get ambushed and die, so don''t do that."


    : Who would do that??


    : I wouldn''t be watching videos in a dungeon, come on


    : Do people actually risk their lives to watch videos?


    : No way


    "Didn''t someone die from that a few years ago? There are always idiots, no matter the era."


    For the record, I''m keeping an eye on my surroundings with my shikigami, so I''m not in any danger. By the way, throwing rocks into the magma serves no real purpose. I''m just killing time. Normally, I''d be maintaining my weapons or petting my shikigami, especially my Raijuu.


    "Oh?"


    : What''s happening?


    : Did you get a hit?


    : Is it biting?


    : This isn''t fishing, man


    : It''s basically lava fishing at this point


    : Lava fishing sounds pretty cool, not gonna lie


    I noticed the lava ripple unnaturally. No way¡ªI wasn''t expecting to find a Skull Dragon after just an hour. Today''s my lucky day! Discover exclusive tales on M V L


    Or so I thought¡­ but instead of a dragon, a giant skeletal snake lunged out of the lava with its jaws wide open.


    "Huh?"


    The entire thing was made of bones. I was expecting a Skull Dragon, so this pissed me off. I sidestepped its charge, grabbed its head, and slammed it into the ground, stomping on its skull until it shattered.


    : Whoa


    : That was brutal, man


    : Poor snake didn''t deserve that


    : Don''t feel too bad, the Skull Dragon''s gonna get the same treatment


    : RIP random snake, you''ll be missed


    : Ouch, that hit me in the gut


    : Why though?


    : Kisaragi, you got a bit of a delinquent streak, huh?


    : Also, why aren''t you using your sword?


    That was annoying¡­ Well, if nothing else shows up soon, I''ll head to the next floor.

 Chapter 122: Clash of Titans

    "What kind of girls do you think he likes?""Big boobs, for sure. This guy plays games that are all about that."


    "Who could possibly resist big boobs?"


    "Even guys who like small boobs don''t actually hate big boobs."


    "Maybe there''s someone with a phobia of big boobs."


    "Does that even exist?"


    "Who knows?"


    "...Can we stop guessing weird stuff about my preferences just because we''re bored?"


    Apparently, I''ve been labeled as someone who likes big boobs, and honestly, it''s hard to deny it outright. Come on, I was a normal high school boy until just a month ago. Of course I like them. I''m an otaku introvert, after all.


    : How long is this going to take?


    : What if Skull Dragons don''t even exist, and Kisaragi''s just making it up?


    : He said it''s a rare monster, didn''t he?


    : How rare are we talking?


    : Like pulling an SSR in a gacha game, maybe?


    : Gacha game odds vary, though.


    : It''s probably like rare crafting materials in games.


    : That depends on the game too, man.


    "The odds are probably about the same as pulling an SSR in a typical mobile gacha game."


    I don''t know the exact rates, but let''s say 1-2%. At 1%, you have about a 60% chance of pulling one if you roll 100 times. But then again, I''m not pulling a monster out like in a gacha; I''m just waiting around for one.


    : But haven''t you moved down like three floors already?


    : Are you close to the bottom now? Stay updated through M V L


    "Well, I''m not really sure how many floors are in this dungeon. But right now, I''m on the 75th floor. I think the furthest anyone''s gone is around the 80th floor, so there''s probably more beyond that."


    By the way, the highest anyone has gotten was back when my grandma was young. What the hell, seriously... This is why they call her Japan''s strongest. Back in her day, the top explorers were only around D-rank. I mean, the lower layers were considered hell back then, much like how the deep layers are treated now. And she went solo down to the 80th floor? That''s insane.


    Even now, she says she''s past her prime and doesn''t actively dive into dungeons anymore, but stories like these make me wonder¡ªwas she even stronger back then? Or is she still just as strong and is downplaying it?


    "


    Sigh


    ... I''m getting sleepy."


    : If you fall asleep, you''re dead.


    : What is this, the mountains?


    : Same thing happens in Antarctica, though.


    : We''re near lava, guys, not freezing weather.


    : Isn''t it like 50 degrees Celsius there?


    : How is it only 50 degrees with lava around? sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Lol


    : Maybe it''s dungeon magic keeping it cool.


    "It''s not that hot, honestly. Sure, you shouldn''t touch the lava, but I''d say the temperature in the dungeon is around 40 degrees Celsius, give or take."


    : Wait, can explorers control how much heat they feel?


    : No way.


    : What do you think explorers are, superheroes?


    : They''re superhuman.


    : Freaks.


    : Only Kisaragi is a freak, though.


    : You''re spreading unfair rumors about explorers now, lol.


    There are hot dungeons and cold dungeons in the world. Still, there''s no way dungeon explorers can adjust their body''s temperature perception. Let''s be real, if someone could do that, they''d basically be invincible... though I don''t actually know what would happen if someone could.


    "Oh, is that it?"


    : Oh?


    : Is it happening?


    : Did you hook it?


    : Stop describing it like fishing.


    : LOL


    : This really is like fishing for lava monsters, huh?


    : Lava fishing, now there''s a new sport.


    The lava surged upward, splashing around as a massive black skeleton dragon emerged from the depths. Yup, that''s the Skull Dragon I was after!


    As soon as it spotted me, it lifted its front leg and slammed it down onto the ground, causing magma to erupt around me, but I dodged it easily.


    "...Is it just me, or is this Skull Dragon way bigger than what''s described in the records?"


    : How should we know?


    : Are there even records of this thing?


    : Yeah, they exist.


    : You can actually buy basic info on them.


    : Does it include monsters from deep layers like this?


    : I doubt it.


    : It''s probably one of those guides that say, "See it for yourself from here."


    : Old-school game strategy guide vibes.


    : Dungeon strategy guidebook, lol.


    If I remember right, the Skull Dragon was supposed to be about 10 meters long from head to tail. But this one''s at least 15 meters. It even has wings made of bones. Is this a different species?


    "Well, whatever."


    It''s still a dragon. The bones should be hard enough. Let''s test it out with a lightning beam.


    "...Huh?"


    : Didn''t work, did it?


    : Wait, what?


    : Is it immune to magic?


    "No, it looked like it absorbed the magic."


    Can that even happen? I can wrap my head around the idea of absorbing magic, but this thing just sucked up the spell with its entire body. That means the bones themselves have a magic-absorbing property. If that''s the case, a weapon made from this thing would have some pretty extreme characteristics. But if you could master it, it''d be insanely powerful.


    "Alright, let''s take it down."


    There are probably two ways to deal with something like this. One is to smash it to bits with pure physical force. That''s the easiest and most straightforward method. The other way is to overload it by making it absorb so much magic that it explodes from the inside. I don''t think it can absorb magic infinitely, so that''s an option. But let''s just go with the simple method for now.


    "''Gyuuki.''"


    For raw power, this guy''s the best.


    In terms of brute strength, it''s probably stronger than even the Twelve Heavenly Generals. Since the Skull Dragon absorbs magic, it''s better to use a straightforward powerhouse like Gyuuki rather than a multi-magic wielder like the generals.


    With a roar, Gyuuki charged straight toward the Skull Dragon.


    "Alright."


    : Kisaragi''s unsheathed his sword.


    : He''s going to fight for real this time.


    : Magic didn''t work, after all.


    Let''s see how much I can crush those bones using just physical power. If I can cleave through its exposed spine, that should be enough to kill it. Though if it''s one of those monsters that can still move even if its spine is destroyed, I''ll just have to chop it up into smaller pieces until it stops. Not much changes in the plan, either way!

 Chapter 123: Shattering Skull Dragon

    As Gyuuki continued to clash with the Skull Dragon, the debris flying around was manageable. What made things difficult, though, was the magma flying along with the rubble¡ªdefinitely an annoying challenge to deal with."Hmm... I wonder which part of its bones would work best for an axe."


    : Are you really worrying about that right now?


    : Do the bones even stay intact?


    : Don''t monsters just turn to dust when they die?


    : Some monsters disappear, but not all of them. Bosses on the final floors don''t vanish either, so it''s not surprising if some remain.


    : You sure about that?


    : Maybe it''s only final floor bosses that don''t vanish?


    To be honest, I haven''t fought every single monster in every dungeon in the world, so I can''t say for sure. But according to the records, the Skull Dragon''s bones remain after it''s killed... for reasons unknown. If we could figure that out, we might understand dungeons better, but that''s not my job.


    Still, if its bones remain after it''s killed, wouldn''t that mean the entire skeleton stays intact if I break it apart completely? Now I''m curious... maybe I should break the whole thing into pieces.


    "Gyuuki!"


    As the Skull Dragon charged toward me, Gyuuki slammed it away with a massive punch. It was a bit comical to see the 3-meter-tall Gyuuki send the 15-meter-long Skull Dragon flying, but I couldn''t just sit back and watch. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Man, Shikigami techniques are so intense and cool.


    : Honestly, if it weren''t for the fact that only a few people can use it, this technique would have no drawbacks.


    : The only drawback is that if the caster is weak, the Shikigami is weak too.


    : That just limits the number of people who can use it.


    : It''s already super limited, though.


    : Not being able to use it is normal for most people.


    : Guess that''s true.


    While the Skull Dragon struggled to get back up, I rushed in and swung my sword down on its head. But the sound of my blade hitting something incredibly hard echoed through the air, and the impact was so strong it left my hand numb.


    "Ugh!"


    And just as I managed to get a clean hit on it, the Skull Dragon spewed magma at me. I jumped back, but the magma slithered across the ground, chasing after me. Gyuuki took the brunt of the magma attack for me, groaning in pain, which told me¡ªyeah, this is real magma, not just some visual trick.


    How the heck is it even spitting magma? Its body is literally all bones with nothing else. Is it generating magma with magic inside its body? If that''s the case, maybe I could copy the technique... not that I would, though.


    "Ha!"


    With Gyuuki holding the Skull Dragon''s attention, I took the opportunity to jump off its back and strike at its foreleg, charging my blade with magic to enhance its hardness. But once again, I was met with a hard impact that sent a painful shock through my arm.


    "Damn, it''s absorbing the magic from my sword too!"


    : Is Kisaragi actually struggling?


    : It''s not like he''s losing. He''s just having trouble cutting through those bones.


    : Looks like he


    could


    finish it off if he wanted to, though.


    : I feel like it''s rare to see Kisaragi struggling like this.


    : Guess he''s not really suited for close combat.


    "The damn thing not only absorbs magic across its entire body, but physical strikes barely do anything either... What a piece of crap monster."


    Are you kidding me? This thing is just ridiculous. Someone nerf it already.


    : Resistant to magic


    and


    physical attacks?


    : Skull Dragon''s actually pretty strong, huh?


    : It''s a deep-layer rare monster. Of course, it''s strong.


    : Skull Dragon fan club in the making here, lol.


    As frustrating as this is, it doesn''t seem like my attacks are completely ineffective. My magically-enhanced strike left a small crack on its foreleg. If I keep targeting those cracks, I might just be able to break through.


    "Gyuuki, I need you to act as bait."


    : Bait, huh?


    : Using your own summon as a meat shield, classic.


    : It''s his own Shikigami, of course, he''s going to use it as a shield.


    With the strategy in mind, all that''s left is to put it into action.


    Gyuuki roared, drawing the Skull Dragon''s attention, and the two started trading blows again. From observing the fight, I noticed that the Skull Dragon reflexively focuses on whoever attacks it. In simpler terms, it''s kind of dumb.


    While Gyuuki distracted it, I circled around and hit the other foreleg with another magically-charged strike, cracking it as well. When the Skull Dragon turned to face me, Gyuuki seized the opportunity to punch it square in the face, sending it flying again.


    "Alright, now it''s my turn to be the bait."


    : This fighting style is pretty brute force.


    : Like master, like student?


    : Didn''t Kisaragi''s master only teach him basic martial arts?


    : But his master fights the same way.


    : Yeah, but she''s fast enough to make it work.


    Using my speed, I dashed in and kicked the Skull Dragon in the head, grabbing its attention once again. As soon as it turned its gaze to me, I transferred more of my magic to Gyuuki, empowering it further. Gyuuki jumped up and came crashing down on the Skull Dragon''s spine, crushing both forelegs and snapping its back in the process. The force of the blow caused the bones to crack and shatter, leaving only the Skull Dragon''s head bouncing away from the impact.


    "Why is it always the head that keeps moving?"


    Now that it was just a head, it was much slower. I stepped on it, concentrated magic at the tip of my blade, and drove it through the skull. The head tried to absorb the magic, but without the rest of the body, it couldn''t handle it, and my sword pierced through.


    ...It looks kind of ridiculous, honestly, like something straight out of a pirate movie.


    : The head''s still moving? LOL


    : Guess the head was the real deal after all.


    : It''s probably just animated by magic. I doubt it has a "real" body. Discover hidden stories at M V L


    : So it was absorbing magic because it


    was


    magic-powered?


    : I dunno, man.


    : Then why are you saying that? Lol.


    After impaling the skull, it dissolved into dust, leaving behind a massive magic stone that I have no idea how it fit inside the body. But the fragmented bones Gyuuki had crushed were still intact. Even though they were shattered, given that the Skull Dragon was about 15 meters tall, there were still plenty of large bones left.


    ...Now, was breaking it like that considered "cutting" the bones? Well, whatever, it''s dead now, so I guess it doesn''t matter.

 Chapter 124: Forging Bonds and Weapons

    Today, everyone is gathered at the office for a livestream. This time, it''s for preparing to dive into the dungeon."And here we have it, ta-dah! Weapons made from the bones of the Skull Dragon."


    : Is this a shopping channel?


    : How much does it cost?


    : Billions of yen!


    : What a bargain! (sarcastically)


    : Whoa, thanks to Kisaragi, they''ve released Skull Dragon materials on the market! They were so expensive I couldn''t afford any!


    : LOL


    This time, I brought in the Skull Dragon materials to have a two-handed axe made for Miyamoto, a dagger for Tennouji, and a great shield for Doudou. I sold off the remaining materials and put them on the market, but since the material was so rare, it ended up in an auction. I knew the blacksmith viewer in the chat wouldn''t be able to afford it.


    Your next chapter awaits on M V L


    "Is it really okay for me to have something like this...?"


    "...I saw the stream, but you seriously hunted a deep-layer monster? Are you a monster yourself?"


    "Wow!"


    Miyamoto looked intimidated by the high-end weapon, Doudou kept calling me a monster for some reason, and Tennouji... well, she didn''t seem to care all that much.


    "Kanakon! These weapons were made specifically for us! If we don''t use them, the materials will go to waste! And it''s not like the boss really cares, right?"


    "Yeah. Since I brought the materials myself, the dagger didn''t even cost a full ten million yen."


    "Ten million yen!?"


    Looks like Doudou is about to pass out.


    Well, if I hadn''t gone to get the materials myself and bought them instead, it probably would have cost billions. The materials themselves are crazy expensive. But since I went to collect them, all I had to do was order custom-made weapons, and the total didn''t even hit a billion. Getting three custom weapons that can be used even in the deep layers for under a billion is pretty amazing.


    : Wow, the numbers are starting to sound like a hyper-inflated online game.


    : LOL


    : I mean, if a dagger costs less than 10M, that''s cheap, right? (gamer brain)


    : Is it true that this came out of the boss''s own pocket?


    : Yep, it''s true.


    It''s not so much out of my pocket¡ªit''s more that the money from selling the Skull Dragon materials easily covered the cost. So it''s really not a big deal. But for mid-layer explorers like Miyamoto and Doudou, that amount of money must sound astronomical. On the other hand, I think it''s more amazing that Miyamoto has been fighting in the mid-layers this whole time with just upper-layer gear.


    "Wow... this is nice."


    "''Nice''? Is that all you''ve got to say?"


    : Knight-kun with the solid retort.


    : Asagao-chan...


    : Asagao-chan''s lost her sense of value too.


    : If this is what all EX-ranked people are like, their sense of money is totally broken.


    : Kisaragi only acts like this when it comes to dungeon stuff, so it''s fine.


    : I don''t think that''s fine.


    The deeper you go into the dungeon, the more you make, but also the more you spend. That said, the profits far outweigh the costs, which is why people do it. By the way, in the chat, they''re calling him "Knight-kun" because of his name, Kishitani Douman. It''s a play on the "Kishi" part, which means knight in Japanese. I guess it''s kind of like how Rinrin gets called "Panda."


    "So, I''d like the two of you to reach D-rank soon."


    "We just got to E-rank, didn''t we?"


    "You can''t stay in the upper layers forever. Oh, by the way, Asagao and Kanakon, you two still have some free time. Personally, I''d like Kanakon to team up and experience the lower layers."


    "Okay!"


    "Wait, already?"


    Asagao responded with her usual enthusiastic reply, but Miyamoto was clearly shocked that I was suggesting she dive into the lower layers already. Still, with her self-enhancement abilities, she''s already capable of handling the lower layers. All that''s left is for her to attune her new weapon to her magic. She''s already strong enough for the lower layers.


    Asagao, holding her newly-crafted spear, started chatting with Miyamoto. I figured I should take Tennouji and Kishitani to the Association to demonstrate their abilities.


    "The goal is to take down a Wyvern."


    "Wait, what?"


    Naturally, I won''t be helping out. If I step in, they won''t be able to rank up. So, Tennouji and Kishitani, under Doudou''s guidance, will be hunting the Wyvern on their own.


    "I got us some high-performance cameras, so Doudou... good luck leading them."


    "You''ve got to be kidding me."


    It''ll be fine. Even if taking down a Wyvern is tough, once they manage to bring down a few, Doudou will be promoted to C-rank, which means he''ll be able to explore the lower layers. Then we''ll boost the other two to C-rank, and once that happens, we can all explore the lower layers together. Then... I''ll really be able to drag them through the depths.


    : LOL S~ea??h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Good luck, Panda.


    : Panda''s suddenly been put in charge of a Wyvern hunt.


    : And he''s never hunted a Wyvern before, has he?


    : Wait, really?


    : I thought mid-layer explorers always hunted Wyverns.


    : Stop spreading false info about mid-layer explorers, lol.


    : Are you guys making Asagao the standard for mid-layer explorers now?


    : She''s not mid-layer, she''s lower-layer.


    Trust me. I''d like you to believe in my ability to assess combat potential. The three of them can definitely handle two Wyverns at once. Even if three show up, it''ll be tough, but they can just run away if necessary. That said, if Kishitani fully masters his Shikigami technique¡ªhis Kageboushi¡ªhe could probably take down five Wyverns... I think. I don''t actually know the full potential of the Kageboushi, so I''m guessing!


    "Oh, and Asagao, make sure you submit your rank promotion request."


    "...Ugh, the paperwork is such a pain."


    "It has to be done in person, and the office staff can''t help you with it. But you could probably hit A-rank right now, so get it over with."


    Sure, going to the Association multiple times and filling out the same forms is tedious, but if you don''t do it, you''ll stay stuck at C-rank forever. You get more tax reductions when you rank up, so it''s worth it. But Asagao doesn''t really do this for the money, so...


    Hmm... Oh, I know.


    "If you reach A-rank, you can go to the deep layers with me. Just the two of us."


    "I''m submitting the paperwork now! I get to go to the deep layers with just you, right?!"


    Uh... wasn''t that too easy?


    Does she really want to explore the deep layers that much?

 Chapter 125: Forged in Battle

    Experience tales at M V LWith our gear packed, strategies reviewed, and a fresh set of high-end weapons, we gathered around the entryway to the Tokyo Metropolitan Dungeon the next day. Today was all about hitting new depths, testing both the team''s mettle and their new equipment to the limit. There was an air of confidence mixed with anticipation¡ªthis was their first taste of lower-tier floors, where survival wasn''t guaranteed.


    We began our descent, with Asagao and Douman up front, leading the way through the initial upper layers. The team was more focused than I''d ever seen, each one moving with deliberate steps, even as Asagao, always the liveliest, kept the mood light.


    "Nothing like a little dungeon stroll in the morning," she quipped, nudging Douman with a grin.


    Tennouji rolled her eyes, but the slight smile showed she was loosening up too. Despite the challenge that awaited, there was an air of excitement. They''d all been waiting for this moment¡ªthe chance to test their skills and prove that they weren''t just some average team scraping by in the dungeon world.


    As we made our way through the first few floors, we encountered lower-level creatures, but their movements were already sharper, more coordinated than I''d seen from them before. Asagao darted forward with newfound agility, spear in hand, striking cleanly with every move. Her attacks were quick and fluid, a testament to the weeks of training we''d put in.


    "You''re faster than last time," Douman noted, impressed. "I might actually have to pick up the pace to keep up."


    The chat was buzzing, keeping up with each team member''s progress and commenting on every maneuver:


    : Asagao out here like a pro!


    : Douman better not fall behind!


    : Did Asagao get faster, or am I imagining things?


    : They''re really in sync now. This isn''t the same team from last week


    We reached the lower floors, and the shift in atmosphere was palpable. The monsters here weren''t the simple-minded goblins or trolls of the upper floors; these creatures were strategic, moving in packs and sensing our approach with an eerie accuracy. I could feel the team tensing, and I quickly reminded them to stay calm, to rely on each other. sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Tennouji, Douman, stay together," I instructed, gesturing for Asagao to take the left flank. "Remember, no one gets isolated."


    They nodded, falling into formation. It was essential down here, where one wrong move could spell the end. I kept a close eye on everyone''s movements, watching for signs of hesitation or doubt. But as I observed, I saw none. The training, the hours spent drilling formations, and the mental preparation were paying off.


    A dark shape emerged from the shadows¡ªa wyvern, flanked by a group of smaller, fast-moving creatures I''d encountered before: shadow lurkers. They were aggressive and used their agility to distract opponents, letting larger creatures swoop in for the kill.


    "Shadow lurkers!" I called out, signaling Douman to raise his shield and Tennouji to take aim. "Focus on the small ones first; we''ll get to the wyvern after."


    Douman stood his ground, shield raised as the lurkers circled us, darting in and out of the shadows, testing our defenses. Tennouji''s new short sword, crafted from the very bones of the wyvern we''d taken down, glinted in the dim dungeon light. With a swift motion, she slashed at a lurker that got too close, the creature vanishing in a puff of dark smoke.


    Asagao leaped forward, her spear a blur of motion as she pinned another lurker to the ground. "One down!" she called out, the thrill of the fight clear in her voice.


    The wyvern roared, sensing that its support was dwindling. Douman braced himself, preparing for the inevitable charge. The chat was already lighting up with comments, their excitement mirroring the tension in the dungeon.


    : Douman better hold that shield!


    : Asagao''s on fire today!


    : Tennouji''s going in with that new blade!


    : This team has come so far


    The wyvern launched itself toward us, its wings spread wide as it barreled through the air. Just as it was about to reach Douman, he raised his shield, taking the brunt of the blow and skidding back several feet. Tennouji and Asagao took advantage of the momentary pause, flanking the wyvern and targeting its weaker joints.


    "Now!" I shouted, giving them the signal. Tennouji and Asagao struck simultaneously, their weapons digging into the wyvern''s scaly hide. It roared in fury, twisting to shake them off, but Douman held his ground, his shield firmly planted. The creature lashed out, its tail whipping dangerously close, but the team moved with precision, dodging each attack with practiced ease.


    The fight was intense, every second a delicate balance between offense and defense. But slowly, we began to gain the upper hand. The wyvern''s movements grew sluggish, its roars weaker. In one final coordinated move, Asagao drove her spear into its side while Tennouji delivered the finishing blow to its neck. With a shudder, the creature collapsed, defeated.


    For a moment, there was silence. Then, the team let out a collective cheer, their faces lit up with exhilaration and relief. They had done it¡ªthey''d taken down a wyvern in the lower tiers without any assistance. They had grown into true dungeon explorers, capable and determined.


    The chat was exploding, a cascade of excited comments and celebratory emojis:


    : THEY DID IT!


    : That was insane! I didn''t think they''d actually take it down


    : Asagao and Tennouji are a dream team!


    : Douman held the line like a pro¡ªrespect


    I couldn''t help but smile as I looked at them, proud of how far they''d come. This was only the beginning, but they were ready for the challenges ahead. We had conquered the lower tiers today, but the path to the deeper levels awaited.


    "Alright, team," I said, catching their attention as they caught their breath. "This was just the first step. Get ready, because next time, we''re going even deeper."


    They exchanged determined glances, their faces resolute. We turned to continue our journey, the weight of the dungeon before us, but with the strength and unity we''d built, I knew we were ready.

 Chapter 126: Whispers of the Forbidden

    The message had appeared out of nowhere, bypassing even the Dungeon Association''s usual security protocols. Its sender was just a set of initials:M.K.


    "The Shibuya Dungeon is not what it seems. Floors exist far below the Deep Floors, hidden even from EX-ranks. They hold something that may change your understanding of the dungeons themselves. If you wish to know more, meet me at the rendezvous point marked below."


    I read it twice, feeling that familiar tug of curiosity¡ªand a touch of caution. Even after all this time, secrets like this still sent a thrill through me, but something about this felt different. The promise of knowledge that could reshape everything I knew about dungeons... it wasn''t something I could easily ignore.


    Kijin, my loyal Shikigami with his piercing eyes and quiet strength, sat beside me, almost as if he sensed my hesitation. He always seemed to know when something serious was on my mind. His eyes met mine, and I could see the question there: Discover hidden stories at M V L


    Are you sure about this?


    "Let''s go," I murmured, more to him than to myself. He flicked his tail once, a slight indication of his own reluctance, but he followed without hesitation. Kijin had been with me the longest, and out of all my Shikigami, he was the one I trusted most. With him by my side, the pull to go was stronger than the doubt.


    When I arrived at the rendezvous¡ªa small, shadowed caf¨¦ on the edge of Hachioji¡ªI half-expected to find no one there. But a lone figure was waiting in the back, his face hidden beneath a wide hat, only his sharp eyes visible as they looked up to meet mine.


    "Tsukasa Kisaragi," he greeted, his voice steady, carrying a weight that told me he''d been through his own share of battles. "I''m glad you came."


    I nodded, slipping into the booth across from him. "What''s this about? Why send me such a cryptic message?"


    "Because you''re one of the few who might understand," he replied. "I''m Makoto Kai, a retired explorer¡­ though, if you do take this offer, you''ll soon realize that the title ''retired'' doesn''t quite cover what I do."


    I raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to continue. He leaned forward, dropping his voice.


    "There are floors beneath the Deep Floors in Shibuya. Places that few have seen. I call them the ''Forbidden Floors'' because they exist outside the natural order of dungeons. Down there, magic behaves strangely, and creatures of immense power stand guard over... something." He paused, eyes flicking toward me. "I believe these floors hold the secret to why dungeons exist."


    A chill ran through me. I''d heard stories, of course¡ªlegends whispered among explorers about the deepest levels of dungeons holding unexplainable horrors. But I''d always thought they were just that: stories.


    Makoto reached into his coat and handed me a small, leather-bound book. "This journal will guide you. But be warned, the creatures down there are nothing like what you''ve faced before. They may even disrupt your Shikigami bond."


    Kijin''s ears twitched at that, and I felt my own heart skip. "Disrupt my Shikigami? How?"


    "It''s the magic. Something about it interferes with bonds like yours. Be prepared to face challenges like you never have."


    With that, he stood, giving me one last searching look before he left me alone in the caf¨¦, the weight of his warning settling heavily on my mind.


    The next day, I found myself at the Shibuya Dungeon''s 65th floor, my pulse racing as I traced the symbols on the stone floor just as Makoto''s journal instructed. The rune barely glowed, but as soon as I murmured the incantation, the ground beneath me shifted, revealing a winding staircase leading deeper into the unknown.


    Kijin and Raijuu, my two closest Shikigami, flanked me as I descended. They moved with the confidence that only came from countless battles by my side, but even I could sense their unease. The air felt different here¡ªthick, like it was pressing down on us, whispering secrets I couldn''t quite hear.


    The passage finally opened into a massive chamber, its walls shimmering with a strange mineral I''d never seen before, casting eerie shadows across the room. Standing in the center of it was a creature unlike any I''d ever encountered.


    It was huge, with the body of a lion but covered in scales that glistened like metal, arcs of energy dancing across its body. Its eyes locked onto me, and for a brief second, I felt something almost... intelligent in its gaze, as if it recognized me as an intruder.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, stepping back slightly. "This one''s all yours."


    Kijin let out a low growl, his eyes narrowing as he sized up the creature. Raijuu, crackling with electricity, darted forward, his body a blur as he aimed for the creature''s flank.


    The beast moved with an agility that defied its massive size, sidestepping Raijuu''s attack and swiping at Kijin with claws that seemed to cut through the air itself. Kijin dodged, then retaliated with a burst of shadows, aiming to obscure the creature''s vision.


    But it didn''t work. The creature simply roared, dispelling the shadows with a surge of energy that nearly knocked me off my feet.


    "Stay sharp," I muttered, more for myself than for them. This wasn''t like the usual fights where I could stand back, letting my Shikigami handle the bulk of the battle. This creature was adapting, countering their moves with frightening precision. I felt a prickling sense of urgency.


    As Kijin and Raijuu continued their assault, I noticed something unsettling¡ªthe longer the fight went on, the more sluggish their movements became, as if the air itself was sapping their strength.


    That''s when I remembered Makoto''s warning.


    "Pull back!" I called out, and they immediately retreated, their breaths heavy, eyes wary as they regrouped around me. I clenched my fists, realizing this was one of those rare times I''d have to step in myself.


    I took a deep breath, centering my focus. "All right... let''s finish this."


    Kijin and Raijuu circled the beast, creating openings that I could exploit. With a quick nod to them, I lunged forward, sliding beneath the creature''s claws as it swiped, narrowly dodging. I drove my blade toward its chest, aiming for the heart¡ªbut its scales deflected the blow, sending a jarring shock up my arm.


    The creature roared, swiping at me, but Kijin leapt in, intercepting the blow with a snarl. Raijuu followed up with a crackling surge of lightning, managing to stagger it just enough to give me another shot. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Now!" I called out, channeling energy into my blade. This time, I aimed for a gap between its scales, and with a powerful thrust, the blade struck true.


    The beast shuddered, its roar fading into a low, guttural growl as it collapsed, its body dissolving into mist.


    I exhaled, wiping sweat from my brow. It had been a close call, closer than I''d care to admit. My Shikigami returned to my side, each of them visibly drained but with a glint of satisfaction in their eyes. Even Kijin, usually stoic, let out a soft chuff as he settled next to me.


    Before I could fully catch my breath, my gaze fell upon a massive stone door on the far side of the chamber. It was covered in symbols similar to the ones on the rune that had led me here, glowing faintly as if reacting to my presence.


    "So this is it," I murmured, more to myself than anyone else.


    I reached out, placing a hand on the door. As soon as I touched it, the symbols flared to life, and with a deep, resonant groan, the door began to open, revealing a dark, narrow passage leading further down.


    A shiver ran down my spine. This wasn''t over. It felt like I''d only scratched the surface of what lay hidden in these forbidden depths.


    With a nod to my Shikigami, I stepped forward, ready to face whatever waited in the darkness beyond.

 Chapter 127: Echoes in the Dark

    The stone door closed behind us with a heavy, echoing thud. I felt the cool air rush through the passage, swirling with an odd, metallic scent that made my skin prickle. Kijin and Raijuu, my two most trusted Shikigami, flanked me as we moved forward. Neither of them made a sound, their usual quiet confidence replaced by an alert wariness that I hadn''t seen in them before.The deeper we went, the more oppressive the silence became. I couldn''t even hear the usual distant growl or faint tremor of other creatures roaming nearby floors. Here, it was as if the air itself had been stilled, waiting. The only sound was the soft pad of my steps and the light crackle of Raijuu''s fur.


    As we walked, the walls seemed to close in, their surfaces shimmering with a faint, unnatural glow. I glanced at Kijin, whose keen eyes swept every inch of our surroundings, and he met my gaze with a flicker of concern. Even Raijuu''s usually playful, fearless demeanor had shifted to something more subdued.


    "Whatever''s down here," I whispered, "isn''t going to make this easy for us."


    My Shikigami stayed silent, but their tension said everything. They knew as well as I did that we were far past the normal realm of dungeons. These floors¡ªMakoto called them the "Forbidden Floors"¡ªfelt less like they were part of the dungeon ecosystem and more like an entirely separate world.


    We came upon an open chamber, dimly lit by crystals embedded in the walls, casting an eerie, greenish glow. The faint light revealed the skeletal remains of some unknown creature sprawled across the floor, its bones twisted and broken as if from a long-ago battle. A chill prickled along my spine.


    "What happened here?" I muttered, crouching down to examine the remains. The skeleton was massive, much larger than any typical dungeon monster. Its rib cage was crushed, and a few jagged bones jutted out like broken spears. Whatever had killed it was powerful¡ªstrong enough to shatter bone with a single strike.


    Kijin prowled forward, his nose close to the ground, sniffing cautiously. After a moment, he looked up at me, his gaze troubled. He''d caught the scent of something, but I didn''t need him to tell me what it was. The stale, metallic tang of blood still lingered, ancient but sharp.


    I straightened, glancing around the chamber. "Let''s keep moving. Whatever did this¡­ it might still be around."


    We slipped into the next passage, the walls becoming narrower, pressing in on us. Shadows twisted and stretched across the floor, flickering in the dim light like they had a life of their own. Raijuu''s fur bristled, tiny sparks dancing along his coat, a sure sign that he sensed something amiss.


    Then, ahead, I saw it¡ªa massive figure, hulking and misshapen, blocking the passageway. It stood motionless, its head bowed as if in slumber. My heart skipped a beat. The creature was like nothing I''d ever seen.


    It was an amalgamation of different animals¡ªpart bear, part lizard, with wings that looked more skeletal than functional. Its skin was cracked and flaking, exposing patches of raw, dark flesh beneath. Its mouth hung open, revealing rows of jagged teeth, and a faint mist rose from its maw.


    I took a step back, signaling for Kijin and Raijuu to stay close. The creature didn''t move, but I could feel the oppressive energy radiating from it, seeping into the walls and floor.


    "Kijin," I whispered, "can you take a look without waking it?"


    He gave a slight nod, his eyes narrowing as he slinked forward, moving as silently as a shadow. I held my breath, watching his every move, tense with anticipation. Kijin had scouted countless monsters before, but even he seemed wary of this one.


    Raijuu and I waited in silence, our eyes trained on Kijin as he circled the creature, his gaze sharp and unblinking. For a moment, I thought we might be able to slip past it undetected. But then, with a low, guttural snarl, the creature''s eyes snapped open, a sickly yellow glow illuminating the darkness.


    I froze, my mind racing. It hadn''t made a move yet, just staring at us with those unblinking eyes, but I knew the next moment would decide everything.


    Without a word, I signaled to Kijin and Raijuu. Raijuu darted forward, his body crackling with energy as he aimed a lightning bolt straight at the creature''s face, hoping to catch it off guard. The bolt struck true, but instead of staggering back, the creature absorbed the energy, the glow in its eyes intensifying.


    This thing was no ordinary monster. It was as if the very rules of magic didn''t apply here.


    "Raijuu, keep moving!" I called out, watching as he circled around, his movements a blur of electricity. Kijin launched a volley of shadow attacks, aiming for the creature''s joints, trying to slow it down, but the attacks seemed to pass through it as if it were made of smoke.


    Realizing we were getting nowhere, I clenched my fists. I didn''t like stepping in personally unless absolutely necessary, but this might be one of those times.


    "Fine," I muttered, drawing my weapon. "Let''s see if we can at least slow it down."


    I advanced cautiously, staying just out of reach as Raijuu and Kijin continued their barrage. The creature''s gaze flickered to me, its maw widening in what almost looked like a grin. I swallowed, forcing myself to stay focused. This was no time to hesitate.


    I closed in, my blade flashing as I aimed for its neck, hoping to catch it off guard. But as my blade made contact, the creature''s form shifted, and my strike passed through it as if it were nothing but mist. My eyes widened, and I pulled back, barely avoiding a swipe from its claws.


    "This is... different," I breathed, glancing at Kijin and Raijuu. They were just as puzzled as I was.


    Before I could regroup, the creature lunged, moving faster than something its size should be able to. Kijin and Raijuu leapt back, but the creature''s claws grazed Kijin, leaving a deep gash along his side. A low growl escaped him, but he steadied himself, his eyes filled with determination.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªlet''s try something different." I felt a surge of focus, calling on the bond I shared with them. "Let''s merge attacks."


    Raijuu circled the creature, his body crackling with an intensity I hadn''t seen in a long time, while Kijin summoned shadows, shrouding the entire chamber in darkness. In the dim light, only the creature''s yellow eyes glowed, a beacon in the murky depths. S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I gathered my energy, channeling it through my bond with Raijuu. "Now!"


    Raijuu unleashed a powerful surge of electricity, the lightning coursing through the shadows Kijin had created, amplifying their power. The combination struck the creature dead-on, and this time, it recoiled, its body flickering and distorting as if its form couldn''t hold.


    I tightened my grip on my blade, preparing for a final strike, but just as I moved, the creature let out a deafening roar, its body collapsing into a swirling cloud of mist. The sound reverberated through the chamber, rattling the walls and sending a shiver down my spine.


    When the mist cleared, the creature was gone, leaving nothing behind but a faint, acrid smell.


    Kijin limped back to me, his wound still raw, but he stood tall, his gaze steady. Raijuu trotted over, his usual energy dampened by exhaustion. I knelt beside them, murmuring words of reassurance, feeling a mix of pride and relief.


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    But my relief was short-lived. Ahead, in the center of the chamber, something began to shimmer¡ªa large, circular doorway, inscribed with the same symbols I''d seen on the stone door before.


    I stared at it, my heart pounding. This was no ordinary floor, no ordinary dungeon. Whatever lay beyond that door was something... ancient. Something that felt as if it had been waiting for someone like me to arrive.


    "Come on," I whispered to my Shikigami, moving toward the door, my senses on high alert. "Let''s see what''s next."


    Kijin and Raijuu fell into step beside me, their eyes watchful, their bodies tense. I reached out, touching the door, and felt a pulse of energy, a feeling almost like... recognition.


    The door slid open, and I stepped forward, feeling the weight of the unknown pressing down on me.

 Chapter 128: Shadows of the Unknown

    The doorway sealed behind us, leaving only the dim, eerie glow of the walls to guide our path. The air was thick, stifling, as though we''d stepped into a place that hadn''t been disturbed for centuries. I could feel it pressing down on me, a quiet, persistent weight that made each breath feel heavier than the last.Kijin and Raijuu flanked me as we moved forward, their movements almost as cautious as mine. Raijuu''s fur bristled, tiny sparks flickering along his coat in response to the strange energy suffusing the air. Kijin, ever stoic, kept his gaze forward, but I could see the way his ears twitched, his muscles tense beneath his sleek fur.


    The corridor stretched endlessly before us, twisting and turning in ways that made no sense. It felt like we were walking in circles, yet I knew we hadn''t changed direction. Every few steps, I''d glance back, half-expecting the path behind us to have shifted, but it remained as unchanging as the one ahead.


    "This place¡­" I murmured, more to myself than to them. "It feels... alive."


    Raijuu let out a low, uneasy growl in agreement. Kijin just glanced at me, his gaze sharp, as if he too sensed the unnatural atmosphere of the dungeon''s depths.


    After what felt like an eternity of walking, we reached another chamber, its walls lined with strange carvings that seemed to pulse with a faint, rhythmic glow. The symbols were unfamiliar, etched in patterns that defied any logic I could grasp. They curved and twisted, branching out like veins, as though alive and breathing with the pulse of an ancient heartbeat.


    I stepped closer, tracing my fingers over one of the symbols, feeling the faint hum of energy beneath my touch. The symbol flared briefly, then dimmed again, leaving a lingering warmth on my fingertips.


    "What are you?" I whispered, as if the walls themselves might answer. But of course, there was only silence.


    Kijin growled softly, pulling my attention back to the center of the chamber. There, in the dim light, something shimmered¡ªa dark, shifting figure, like a shadow detached from any source. It pulsed with a strange energy, flickering in and out of focus, as though caught between two worlds.


    The shadow shifted, and for a brief, heart-stopping moment, I thought I saw eyes¡ªcold, calculating, and filled with an intelligence that felt both ancient and alien. My hand tightened around the hilt of my weapon, even as I knew instinctively that it wouldn''t be enough against something like this.


    Kijin and Raijuu sprang forward, their bodies low and poised, ready to attack. But before they could reach it, the shadow flickered, dissolving into the floor, leaving nothing but an echo of its presence behind.


    "Did¡­ did we scare it off?" I muttered, not fully convinced.


    Raijuu sniffed the ground where the shadow had been, his nose twitching with a mixture of curiosity and unease. Whatever it had been, it wasn''t like any monster I''d encountered. It didn''t feel like a living creature at all; more like... a fragment of something else. Something that didn''t belong in our world.


    With a final glance around the chamber, I nodded to my Shikigami, and we pressed on. The path twisted and narrowed, the walls pressing in so close I had to turn sideways to squeeze through at points. Every now and then, the symbols on the walls would flare as I passed, their pulsing glow casting strange shadows across my face, as if watching me, tracking my every step.


    We emerged into yet another chamber, this one even larger than the last. The floor was littered with fragments of crystal and bone, remnants of battles long past. A series of towering statues loomed over us, each one carved in the likeness of creatures I could only describe as monstrous gods, their expressions twisted into sneers and grimaces that sent a shiver down my spine.


    But what drew my attention most was the massive, circular stone slab in the center of the room. It was engraved with symbols similar to those on the walls, but these were arranged in a spiral pattern, leading inward to a single, glowing point at the center.


    I stepped closer, feeling the pull of that central point like a magnet. As I reached the edge of the slab, I felt a pulse¡ªa beat that echoed in my chest, in perfect synchrony with my own heartbeat. It was as though the dungeon itself were alive, breathing, its pulse entwined with mine.


    "Tsukasa¡­"


    The voice was soft, a whisper barely audible, yet it sent a chill through me. I froze, glancing around, but there was no one there¡ªjust me, Kijin, and Raijuu.


    But I knew what I''d heard. Someone, or something, had whispered my name. My gaze shifted back to the glowing center of the slab, and a strange sense of clarity washed over me.


    This wasn''t just a dungeon. It was... a prison. A seal, designed to contain something powerful. Something that was very much aware of my presence.


    Kijin let out a low growl, his gaze fixed on the slab. Raijuu''s fur bristled, sparks flickering along his coat as he sensed the tension thickening in the air. They could feel it too¡ªthe awareness pressing down on us, watching, waiting.


    Suddenly, the ground beneath us began to tremble. Cracks spidered across the floor, radiating outward from the slab''s center. The statues around us shuddered, their eyes flaring with an eerie, crimson glow.


    I took a step back, my heart pounding. "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªbe ready."


    As if in response, the statues began to move, their stone limbs creaking and groaning as they came to life, their once-blank eyes now fixed on me with a predatory gleam.


    "Just great," I muttered, positioning myself between my Shikigami and the advancing statues. "Guess we''re doing this."


    Kijin darted forward, his shadowy form slipping through the dim light, aiming for the closest statue''s joints. Raijuu followed, his body crackling with electricity as he launched a bolt toward the statue''s chest. The lightning struck, but the statue barely flinched, its stone body absorbing the attack with ease.


    These things were resilient¡ªstronger than the usual dungeon constructs. S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Time for Plan B," I said, nodding to Raijuu. He shifted, launching a series of rapid strikes, each one aimed at the cracks forming on the statue''s body. Kijin moved in tandem, striking with precision, targeting the weakest points with swift, calculated blows.


    The statue let out a low, rumbling growl as the combined attacks finally began to take effect, its limbs cracking and splintering under the pressure. It staggered, one arm falling limp at its side, but it didn''t stop. The other statues moved forward, their eyes glowing brighter, their footsteps shaking the ground beneath us.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfall back!" I called, regrouping as the statues closed in, their massive forms blocking any exit from the chamber.


    I could feel the weight of their gaze, that ancient, unknowable intelligence lurking behind those crimson eyes. It was as though the dungeon itself were testing me, watching to see how I''d respond.


    All at once, the central point on the stone slab flared to life, casting the chamber in a harsh, blinding light. I shielded my eyes, feeling the pulse grow stronger, resonating through my entire body. When I looked again, the statues had stopped, their eyes dimming as they returned to their original positions, frozen in place.


    The light from the slab began to swirl, coalescing into a single, shimmering figure. It hovered just above the ground, its form shifting and flickering like a mirage. I squinted, trying to make out its shape, but it was as though it refused to be seen, an entity caught between reality and some other plane.


    "Tsukasa," it whispered again, its voice echoing through the chamber, filling the space with a sense of cold finality. "You should not be here."


    I swallowed, feeling a chill settle over me. "Who... or what are you?"


    The figure''s form flickered, its gaze unblinking as it seemed to peer into my very soul. "I am a fragment... a memory. Bound to this place, a remnant of what once was. And you... are trespassing."


    The weight of its gaze pressed down on me, a force that threatened to overwhelm my senses. I took a step back, feeling Kijin and Raijuu close in protectively on either side.


    "What do you want?" I managed, my voice barely above a whisper.


    The figure tilted its head, an expression I could only describe as pity crossing its shifting features. "The seal is weakening. The world beyond is not yet ready for what lies here. You would do well to turn back."


    With that, the figure faded, its final words lingering in the air like an unspoken warning.


    I stood there, the silence pressing in around us once more, feeling the weight of the unknown settle over me.


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    Turning to Kijin and Raijuu, I took a steadying breath. "We''re not turning back," I murmured, more to myself than to them. "Not until we know exactly what this place is hiding."


    They both nodded, their expressions resolute. Whatever lay ahead, we''d face it together.

 Chapter 129: The Pulse of the Forbidden

    The stone door closed behind us with a deep, echoing thud, leaving only the eerie glow of the walls to guide our way. I started the stream, adjusting the camera to capture the narrow, twisting passage ahead, as well as the tense figures of Kijin and Raijuu beside me."All right, everyone," I whispered, keeping my voice low. "Welcome to the Forbidden Floors. This place¡­ it''s different. Feels like the dungeon itself is alive."


    The chat instantly filled with reactions:


    : WOAH Forbidden Floors reveal! Finally, the rumors were true?


    : This is giving me serious horror vibes, Tsukasa¡­


    : Is it just me, or is it too quiet? Usually, you can hear distant growls or something.


    Kijin prowled forward, his gaze sharp, while Raijuu''s fur bristled, tiny sparks crackling along his coat in response to the tension in the air. The strange, rhythmic pulse echoed through the floor¡ªa low thrum that matched my heartbeat.


    "You''re right," I said, keeping my voice steady. "There''s something¡­ oppressive about this place. The walls, the air, even the ground. It all feels like it''s watching us."


    : Dude, I swear I just saw something moving in the shadows behind you!


    : Raijuu and Kijin look super tense¡­ something''s off.


    : Anyone else hearing that weird heartbeat sound? So creepy!


    I adjusted the angle, letting the viewers see the massive chamber we''d entered. At its center stood a single, black crystal resting on a pedestal, the surface glossy and dark, reflecting the faint light from the walls. Strange symbols covered the walls, pulsing in rhythm with the crystal''s energy, like veins feeding some unknown force.


    "Check this out, chat," I murmured, zooming in on the crystal and the carvings. "Looks like a core, but¡­ it''s giving off a different energy. Almost like it has a mind of its own."


    : That crystal looks like bad news¡­


    : Anyone else getting major horror vibes here?


    : Careful, Tsukasa! You don''t know what that thing is capable of.


    The closer I got, the stronger the pulse became, each beat resonating through my entire body. As I reached out, almost touching the crystal, I felt a sudden rush of icy energy surge through me. My vision blurred, filled with flickering images¡ªdark shapes, ancient symbols, places I didn''t recognize. And then a whisper drifted through my mind, clear and cold.


    "You are not meant to be here¡­"


    I pulled back, stumbling slightly as the images faded. My heart pounded, and I glanced back at Kijin and Raijuu, both of whom were watching the crystal with wary eyes. Chat had gone wild.


    : What was that?! Did anyone else hear it?


    : Something''s not right. That crystal is dangerous, Tsukasa.


    : That voice¡­ felt like it was speaking to me too. Creepy af.


    I shook my head, trying to regain my focus. "It''s fine, everyone. Just¡­ unexpected. Let''s move forward and see what else this place has hidden."


    We advanced through the chamber, only to hear a low rumble from behind us. I turned just in time to see a massive, shadowy figure rising from the floor¡ªa serpent-like creature, its body twisting and coiling, its cold, glowing eyes fixed directly on me. The chat went silent for a heartbeat, then exploded.


    : OMG, WHAT IS THAT THING?!


    : Is this even a dungeon monster? It looks¡­ wrong.


    : Tsukasa, stay back! That thing looks like a nightmare!


    The creature stared at me, an unsettling intelligence behind its eyes. This wasn''t just a mindless monster. It was something else. Something aware.


    "All right, team," I muttered to Kijin and Raijuu. "Let''s see what we''re dealing with here."


    Raijuu sprang forward, his body sparking with electricity as he launched a bolt of lightning straight at the creature''s head. Chat went wild, cheering him on as the bolt connected¡ªbut instead of recoiling, the creature absorbed the energy, its scales glowing with a strange, dark light.


    : No way¡­ it absorbed the attack?!


    : Raijuu''s lightning doesn''t work on it? How is that possible?


    Kijin darted in next, striking with shadow-infused attacks aimed at its exposed underbelly. But the creature twisted with uncanny agility, evading each strike and countering with a swipe of its tail that forced Kijin back. My jaw tightened.


    "Looks like we''re not dealing with a typical monster here," I muttered.


    : This thing''s adapting! Every attack just makes it stronger¡­


    : How can it dodge Kijin like that? It''s almost like it knows their moves.


    I signaled for Kijin and Raijuu to regroup, feeling the weight of the creature''s gaze as it watched us, as if calculating its next move. I rarely intervened directly in battles, but this creature was pushing us to the limit.


    "All right, chat," I said, a note of resolve creeping into my voice. "This is one of those rare times you''re gonna see me step in."


    The chat lit up in excitement.


    : YES! Tsukasa going all-out! This is what we came to see!


    : Show us what an EX-rank can really do!


    : Take this thing down!


    I took a step forward, signaling to Raijuu and Kijin to create a diversion. Raijuu launched another burst of lightning, aiming high, while Kijin slipped through the shadows, hitting the creature''s weak points. The creature twisted, hissing, but this time, I was ready. As Raijuu''s lightning struck, I moved in, driving my blade into its core.


    The creature shuddered, its body flickering and distorting, until it dissolved into dark mist, vanishing without a trace. I let out a breath I hadn''t realized I was holding, and the chat erupted in celebration.


    : THAT WAS EPIC!! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!


    : Forbidden Floors don''t mess around. That thing was unreal.


    : Tsukasa, Kijin, and Raijuu: unstoppable trio! Let''s go!


    I grinned, giving the viewers a nod. "Thanks, everyone. That was¡­ a lot. But we''re good now."


    But before I could take a step back, the crystal on the pedestal began pulsing with renewed intensity, filling the chamber with a dark, vibrating energy. The whispering returned, filling my mind with fragments of images, glimpses of a world that felt distant yet familiar. And then, a voice, cold and calm, spoke directly into my mind. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "The seal is weakening¡­"


    The voice was clearer this time, an unsettling clarity that sent a shiver through me. I could feel it probing, like it was reaching into the edges of my mind, searching for something.


    "Did¡­ did anyone else hear that?" I asked, glancing back at the chat.


    : Heard what? Are you okay, Tsukasa?


    : What do you mean? We didn''t hear anything.


    "Release¡­ me."


    The words echoed in my thoughts, filling the silence of the chamber. I stumbled back, feeling a chill run down my spine, the weight of those words pressing down on me.


    "What¡­ what are you?" I whispered, half to myself.


    The chat continued to flow, messages of worry and confusion scrolling by.


    : Tsukasa, don''t do it. Whatever that thing is¡­ it sounds dangerous.


    : Release me? Is there something trapped down there?


    : This is giving me major bad vibes. Be careful!


    Kijin and Raijuu moved closer, sensing my unease. They looked ready for anything, but even they seemed wary of the crystal and the strange energy emanating from it. I took a deep breath, forcing myself to stay calm.


    "Don''t worry, chat," I said, trying to sound confident. "I''m not planning on releasing anything. We''re just¡­ here to figure out what''s going on."


    The crystal''s pulse began to fade, its energy diminishing, leaving the chamber silent once more. Whatever had spoken, whatever ancient presence lurked within these floors, it was aware of me¡ªand I had the sense that this was only the beginning.


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    With one last look at the crystal, I turned back to the passage, signaling for Kijin and Raijuu to follow. "Let''s keep moving. There''s more to discover down here."


    As we disappeared into the next corridor, the chat filled with a mixture of excitement and concern.


    : Forbidden Floors are legit terrifying. But this is the best stream ever.


    : Just stay safe, Tsukasa. We''re with you.


    : I can''t believe this is happening live¡­ This is going to be legendary.


    The path twisted and turned, the shadows growing deeper, more oppressive with every step. Whatever secrets lay hidden in the Forbidden Floors, I had a feeling we were only scratching the surface. But with my Shikigami by my side and the support of everyone watching, I was ready to face whatever waited in the darkness.

 Chapter 130: Echoes of an Ancient Power

    The path twisted and stretched on, each step taking us deeper into the unknown. The crystal''s presence still lingered in my mind¡ªa faint whisper I couldn''t shake, as though it had left a mark I couldn''t see.Kijin and Raijuu stayed close, their eyes sharp and alert. They were tense, more so than usual, as if sensing the same strangeness that I felt. This floor, this entire section of the dungeon¡­ it wasn''t like anything we''d encountered before.


    "All right, everyone," I murmured, glancing at the chat feed on my device. "We''re going even deeper. Whatever''s down here¡­ it''s watching us."


    The chat was alive with excitement and nervous energy.


    : Dude, this is insane! I feel like I''m watching a horror movie.


    : Keep going, Tsukasa! We''re right here with you!


    : Forbidden Floors have my heart racing. This isn''t like any other stream.


    Ahead of us, the passage opened into another chamber, its ceiling arching so high that I couldn''t see where it ended. Pale, bluish light flickered from clusters of crystals embedded in the walls, casting ghostly shadows that danced across the floor. In the center of the room stood a stone structure¡ªsomething like an altar, covered in markings similar to those on the crystal we''d seen earlier.


    I approached cautiously, keeping the camera trained on the altar for the viewers to see. As we got closer, I noticed faint symbols etched into the stone, lines that glowed with a soft, pulsing light.


    "Look at this, chat," I whispered, zooming in on the markings. "These symbols¡­ they''re the same as the ones on that crystal."


    : Those symbols are seriously ancient. This is next-level dungeon lore.


    : Tsukasa, can you feel any energy coming from it? Like with the crystal?


    : This place looks like it''s been abandoned for centuries¡­ What was it used for?


    I reached out, hovering my hand above the markings, feeling a faint hum beneath my palm. There was energy here, similar to the crystal but¡­ different, like it was part of something larger, something vast and ancient.


    Suddenly, a cold gust of air swept through the chamber, and the pulsing light from the symbols flickered, dimming before returning stronger than before. A whisper, soft and chilling, drifted through my mind, barely more than a breath.


    "Who¡­ dares¡­"


    I froze, glancing around, but there was no one else in the room¡ªjust me, Kijin, and Raijuu. The chat erupted in reaction.


    : Did you guys hear that? It sounded like someone''s voice¡­


    : I''m getting chills. What''s going on, Tsukasa?


    : This is like a ghost story come to life. Be careful!


    I took a deep breath, keeping my voice steady. "Yeah, I heard it too, chat. But there''s no one here. Whatever it is¡­ it''s connected to this altar."


    Kijin and Raijuu were on high alert, their bodies tense as they scanned the room. Raijuu let out a low growl, his gaze fixed on something just beyond the altar, his fur crackling with sparks.


    "Stay close," I murmured to them, moving forward. "Let''s see what''s hidden here." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As I approached the altar, a faint glow appeared in the air above it¡ªa shifting, amorphous light that twisted and morphed, as though trying to take shape but unable to settle. My heart raced, and I could sense my Shikigami''s tension mounting.


    "What is that?" I muttered, focusing the camera on the glow. The chat was going wild with guesses and theories.


    : It''s like¡­ a spirit or an energy projection. Maybe a guardian?


    : That''s no ordinary dungeon phenomenon. It looks like something is trapped there.


    : Whatever it is, it doesn''t look friendly.


    The glow pulsed, growing stronger, and for a moment, I thought I could make out a face¡ªa vague, shadowy form that flickered in and out of sight. The whisper returned, louder this time, like an echo reverberating through the air.


    "You¡­ do not belong here¡­"


    A chill ran down my spine, and I stepped back instinctively, feeling the weight of those words settle over me. Whoever or whatever was speaking¡­ it wasn''t just a part of the dungeon. It felt ancient, powerful, and very much aware of our presence.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I whispered, keeping my voice steady. "Stay alert."


    But before I could take another step, the light above the altar flared, and the ground beneath us began to tremble. Cracks spidered across the floor, radiating out from the altar, as the entire chamber seemed to shift and warp, as though responding to some unseen force.


    The chat was in a frenzy, messages flying across the screen.


    : Tsukasa, get out of there! This is way too dangerous!


    : I think the dungeon''s reacting to you. Whatever you did, it''s making something mad! Your journey continues at M-V-L


    : Forbidden Floors don''t mess around. This is some serious stuff.


    The ground shook violently, and I struggled to keep my balance. Kijin and Raijuu braced themselves, their eyes fixed on the altar as a low, rumbling growl echoed through the chamber. And then, from the cracks in the floor, dark tendrils of shadow began to emerge, twisting and writhing like living things, coiling around the altar and stretching toward us.


    I took a step back, trying to assess the situation, but the tendrils were moving too fast, spreading across the floor like a web. I felt a cold, unyielding pressure pressing down on me, and I realized with a jolt that the altar wasn''t just an object¡ªit was a seal, holding something back.


    "All right, chat," I muttered, my voice tense. "Looks like we''re not alone down here."


    The tendrils surged forward, and Kijin leapt into action, his form blending with the shadows as he darted around the room, slashing at the dark tendrils with swift, precise strikes. Raijuu followed, unleashing bursts of lightning that crackled through the air, illuminating the chamber with each strike.


    The chat was exploding with reactions, a mixture of excitement and fear.


    : Kijin and Raijuu are amazing! They''re fighting shadows like pros.


    : Is it just me, or does it look like the shadows are regenerating?


    : This is bad. It''s like the altar is summoning these things to defend itself.


    Despite Kijin and Raijuu''s attacks, the tendrils continued to advance, coiling and twisting, each one regenerating almost as soon as it was struck down. I clenched my fists, my mind racing. This wasn''t going to be a straightforward fight¡ªwhatever was controlling these shadows was using the altar as a source of power.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfall back!" I called out, gesturing for them to regroup. They returned to my side, both of them breathing heavily, their eyes fixed on the altar as the tendrils continued to spread.


    "Chat," I said, my voice steady despite the tension. "I think we''re dealing with some kind of¡­ dungeon entity. Something that''s been sealed down here for a long time."


    : Is this some kind of boss fight? Like, a guardian or a spirit?


    : It''s gotta be protecting something important. What else could be worth locking up this deep?


    : Be careful, Tsukasa! This is way above anything you''ve faced before.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on me. This wasn''t just another dungeon. Whatever lay here¡­ it was beyond anything I''d encountered before.


    "Let''s try this again," I murmured, feeling the familiar surge of energy as I connected with Kijin and Raijuu, channeling our combined strength. "This time, we''re going to end it."


    Kijin moved forward, his form blending with the shadows, his strikes swift and precise as he aimed for the tendrils'' roots. Raijuu circled around, unleashing lightning bolts in rapid succession, each one aimed at the altar itself.


    The shadows writhed and twisted, but this time, our combined power was enough to push them back, forcing the tendrils to retreat. The glow above the altar flickered, growing weaker with each strike.


    The chat was going wild, cheering us on.


    : YES! They''re finally breaking through!


    : Kijin and Raijuu are unstoppable! Show that altar who''s boss!


    : Keep going! Whatever''s behind that seal, it''s weakening!


    With one final surge of energy, Raijuu launched a powerful burst of lightning directly at the center of the altar. The stone cracked, splintering beneath the force of the attack, and the shadows recoiled, dissolving into wisps of mist that faded into the air.


    I lowered my weapon, feeling the tension lift as the altar''s light faded, leaving the chamber in silence. The ground stopped shaking, and the oppressive energy that had filled the room began to dissipate.


    "Looks like¡­ we did it," I murmured, glancing at Kijin and Raijuu. They nodded, both of them visibly exhausted but victorious.


    The chat erupted in celebration.


    : THAT WAS INSANE! Best stream ever, Tsukasa!


    : Forbidden Floors are no joke, but you handled it like a pro.


    : I can''t believe we just witnessed that live. You''re a legend, Tsukasa!


    But as I turned to leave, I felt a faint pulse from the altar¡ªa final, lingering whisper that sent a chill down my spine.


    "This is only the beginning¡­"


    I stopped, my heart pounding as the words echoed in my mind. Whatever we had faced here, whatever power had been sealed in this place¡­ it wasn''t over.


    "Looks like we''re not done yet, chat," I said, managing a shaky smile. "Stick around. Things are just getting started."


    With Kijin and Raijuu by my side, I turned toward the next passage, ready to face whatever else lay hidden in the depths of the Forbidden Floors.

 Chapter 131: Depths of the Unknown

    We moved cautiously down the twisting corridor, the glow of the altar''s lingering energy fading behind us. My heart still pounded from the last encounter, the weight of those final whispered words¡ª"This is only the beginning¡­"


    ¡ªechoing in my mind. It was like something was waiting for us, anticipating our next move.


    "Thanks for sticking with me, chat," I said, glancing at the screen as the messages scrolled by. "This floor¡­ it''s different. More intense than any dungeon I''ve seen. Whatever''s down here, we''re going to figure it out together."


    The chat was alive with a mix of support and nervous excitement.


    : Tsukasa, we''re with you all the way! Let''s see what else this place has hidden.


    : Whatever you do, don''t let your guard down. This isn''t like the other floors.


    : I''m seriously on edge right now. The Forbidden Floors are a whole other level.


    Kijin moved ahead, his form blending with the shadows as he scouted the path. Raijuu stayed close to me, sparks crackling along his fur, his gaze sharp and alert. I kept the camera trained on the tunnel ahead, letting the viewers see every eerie twist and turn. Continue your adventure with M-V-L


    The air grew colder as we descended further, and the walls seemed to close in, etched with even more intricate symbols and markings. These carvings weren''t just decoration¡ªthey felt deliberate, as if each symbol was a piece of a larger puzzle.


    "Look at these markings," I murmured, bringing the camera closer. "It''s almost like¡­ a story, maybe? Or a warning?"


    : They look ancient. What language is that? I don''t think I''ve ever seen anything like it.


    : It definitely feels like they''re telling a story. Maybe about what''s trapped here?


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. Those symbols don''t look friendly.


    I studied the symbols, trying to make sense of them. Lines and shapes converged, creating patterns that seemed almost alive, pulsing faintly with a strange, inner glow. As I traced my fingers over one of the symbols, a sudden rush of energy surged through me, filling my mind with fragmented images¡ªvisions of creatures, towering structures, shadows stretching across an endless horizon.


    I stumbled back, breaking contact, the images vanishing as quickly as they''d appeared. Kijin and Raijuu looked at me, both of them tense, sensing the disturbance.


    "Just¡­ some flashes," I muttered, steadying myself. "Something ancient is here. It''s almost like these symbols are¡­ memories."


    : Did you see something? You looked totally zoned out for a second.


    : This is way creepier than a normal dungeon. What did you see?


    : I''ve got goosebumps just watching this. Be careful, Tsukasa!


    I nodded, catching my breath. "It''s nothing concrete¡ªjust flashes of something¡­ old. Like memories imprinted on these walls. Whatever''s down here, it''s connected to these symbols."


    We continued, the passage narrowing as we descended further. The flickering lights from crystals embedded in the walls cast distorted shadows, making it difficult to tell what was real and what was just an illusion. Raijuu''s fur bristled, his gaze fixed on something up ahead, and I tightened my grip on my weapon, ready for whatever might come next.


    Suddenly, the passage opened into a cavernous chamber, its ceiling towering high above, disappearing into darkness. At the center of the room was a massive, circular pool, its surface as still as glass, reflecting the eerie glow of the crystals lining the walls.


    "Chat, check this out," I whispered, panning the camera over the room. "This place¡­ it''s like a sanctuary, or maybe¡­ a resting place?"


    : That pool gives me the creeps. What do you think it''s for?


    : Is it just me, or does it feel like something''s watching you?


    : Forbidden Floors, where the danger is in every shadow¡­ Tsukasa, keep your guard up!


    I approached the edge of the pool, peering into the depths. The water was so clear I could see straight to the bottom, where more symbols were etched into the stone, glowing faintly. But there was something else down there¡ªan object, half-buried in the silt, glinting faintly in the dim light.


    "Kijin, Raijuu, stay close," I murmured, reaching down to brush the silt away from the object. It was cold to the touch, metallic, with engravings that matched the symbols on the walls. As I lifted it, a faint pulse echoed through the room, and a whisper drifted through my mind.


    "You have awakened us¡­"


    The voice was different this time, deeper, resonating with a strength that made my skin prickle. I froze, feeling the weight of that voice settle over me, ancient and vast, as though the dungeon itself were speaking.


    The chat erupted in a frenzy.


    : Did anyone else hear that? It sounded like it was speaking directly to us!


    : This isn''t just a dungeon anymore. It feels¡­ alive.


    : Tsukasa, put that thing back! Whatever it is, it''s not worth the risk.


    But I couldn''t bring myself to let go. The object pulsed in my hand, filling my mind with fragments of memories¡ªimages of creatures, cities, and battles long past. Whatever this was, it held knowledge, secrets that no one else had seen.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I whispered, turning to them. "We need to understand what this is. But stay ready¡­ something is definitely here with us."


    As I examined the object, the ground beneath us began to tremble. Cracks spidered across the floor, and the water in the pool began to ripple, small waves lapping against the edges as the room filled with a low, rumbling growl. The symbols along the walls flared to life, casting the chamber in a harsh, unearthly light.


    The chat was going wild.


    : Tsukasa, GET OUT OF THERE!


    : This is bad. It''s like the whole dungeon''s waking up.


    : I have a really, really bad feeling about this.


    I took a step back, feeling the pressure in the room increase, as though something were pressing down on us from all sides. Kijin and Raijuu moved to flank me, their eyes fixed on the pool as the water began to bubble and churn, a dark shape rising from its depths.


    The figure that emerged was massive, a creature unlike any I''d ever seen¡ªits form shifting and morphing, as though it were made of smoke and shadow, its eyes glowing with a cold, piercing light. I felt the weight of its gaze settle on me, and a chill ran down my spine.


    "You¡­ dare disturb my rest¡­"


    The words reverberated through the chamber, filling the air with an oppressive force. I could barely breathe under the weight of that voice, each syllable pressing down on me like a physical weight.


    "All right, chat," I murmured, my voice barely steady. "Looks like we''ve found¡­ something ancient. Let''s see what it''s made of."


    The chat was a mix of fear and exhilaration.


    : Tsukasa, be careful! This is like a boss fight from hell.


    : You''re literally facing an ancient god. This is insane!


    : Go, Tsukasa! We''re with you every step of the way!


    Kijin darted forward, his form blending with the shadows as he struck, his claws aiming for the creature''s shifting mass. Raijuu followed, his body crackling with electricity as he launched a powerful bolt straight at the creature''s head.


    The creature barely flinched, absorbing the attacks as though they were nothing. It twisted, its form flickering and reforming as it lashed out, sending a shockwave through the room that forced us back.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfall back!" I called, regrouping as the creature advanced, its gaze fixed on me with a cold, unyielding focus.


    The chat was going wild with reactions. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : It''s adapting to their attacks! This thing is seriously powerful.


    : Tsukasa, how are you going to stop it? It''s like nothing affects it!


    : I''ve never seen anything like this in a dungeon. Forbidden Floors are insane.


    I tightened my grip, feeling a surge of determination. "All right," I muttered, glancing at my Shikigami. "If we''re going to beat this thing, we''ll need to outsmart it."


    Kijin and Raijuu nodded, their eyes fierce and ready. We moved in sync, Kijin slipping into the shadows, launching feints and diversions while Raijuu circled around, his lightning strikes coordinated with precision.


    The creature twisted, trying to track our movements, but our combined efforts began to take effect, forcing it to shift and adapt with each attack. I watched its movements, analyzing its reactions, looking for any sign of a weakness.


    Finally, I saw it¡ªa flicker, a momentary instability in its form each time Raijuu''s lightning struck. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but it was there.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfocus on that spot!" I directed, signaling to the weak point. They both responded immediately, their attacks honing in on the creature''s vulnerable area. With a final surge of energy, Raijuu launched a concentrated bolt of lightning, striking the weak point dead-on.


    The creature let out a guttural roar, its form shuddering and twisting as it struggled to hold itself together. I took a deep breath, channeling my energy into a final, decisive strike, aiming straight for the heart of the creature''s form.


    The impact sent a shockwave through the chamber, and the creature dissolved, its form dissipating into wisps of shadow that faded into the air. The room fell silent, the oppressive energy lifting as the creature vanished.


    The chat exploded with cheers and celebration.


    : HE DID IT! Tsukasa, you''re a legend!


    : That was the most intense fight I''ve ever seen. Forbidden Floors are no joke.


    : Kijin and Raijuu are absolute beasts! That teamwork was unreal.


    I let out a breath, feeling a mix of exhaustion and relief wash over me. Kijin and Raijuu returned to my side, both of them visibly drained but triumphant. I turned back to the altar, the object still clutched in my hand.


    "Looks like¡­ we''ve uncovered something big," I murmured, glancing at the chat. "This is just the beginning, everyone. There''s more down here, and I intend to find out exactly what it is."

 Chapter 132: Secrets Beneath the Surface

    We moved cautiously, the faint echoes of the defeated entity still reverberating through the silence. The room felt different now, the pressure lifting slightly, but I could sense something lingering in the shadows. Kijin and Raijuu were tense, their gazes sharp and alert as we advanced further down the narrow passage.The tunnel twisted, opening into a smaller chamber that was eerily quiet. Patches of dim, phosphorescent moss clung to the walls, casting a ghostly light that only added to the unnerving atmosphere. I held up the mysterious object we''d found by the altar, examining its intricate engravings more closely. The symbols were ancient, almost alien in design, but as I stared at them, they seemed to shift, forming patterns I felt like I recognized¡­ yet couldn''t place.


    "Look at this, chat," I whispered, tilting the object toward the camera. "It''s got markings like the ones we saw on the altar. They keep changing¡ªalmost like they''re alive."


    : Those symbols are giving me the creeps¡­ They don''t look natural.


    : Does anyone else feel like they''re looking at something they shouldn''t?


    : This is ancient dungeon lore! You''re probably the first to ever see this.


    Just as I was examining it, the air grew colder, and I felt a strange pull, like an invisible thread connecting me to the object. Kijin sniffed the air, his gaze shifting around the chamber as though sensing something just out of sight.


    "Kijin?" I asked quietly, watching as he crouched low, his eyes narrowing. Raijuu''s fur bristled, small arcs of lightning dancing across his coat.


    A faint hum filled the air, low and rhythmic, building in intensity. It felt like a pulse, almost in sync with the object I was holding. My skin prickled as I felt the energy shift, coalescing in the center of the room, and slowly, shapes began to emerge from the shadows¡ªfaint, translucent figures, barely visible but radiating an intense, unsettling energy.


    The chat was blowing up, a mix of awe and fear.


    : Are those¡­ spirits? What are we looking at?


    : I swear I saw a face in that shadow. This is unreal!


    : Be careful, Tsukasa! Those things don''t look friendly.


    The figures moved slowly, their forms shifting and distorting as though they were caught between this world and another. They made no sound, but their presence was oppressive, filling the room with a sense of dread that settled heavily over me.


    I took a step back, gesturing for Kijin and Raijuu to hold their positions. The figures drifted closer, their eyes fixed on the object in my hand. One of them extended a thin, skeletal hand, pointing at the object, and a voice whispered in my mind, faint but clear. Experience exclusive tales on M-V-L


    "Return¡­ the seal¡­"


    A chill shot through me. Return the seal? I glanced down at the object, realizing with a jolt that it might be more than just a piece of dungeon lore. It was a key¡ªa fragment of something ancient, something powerful.


    I tightened my grip, resisting the pull of their words. "Chat, these things¡­ they want this object back. It''s like it belongs to them."


    : Don''t give it to them! You found it fair and square!


    : What if that thing is keeping something locked away? Maybe you should listen¡­


    : Tsukasa, we''re with you. Do what you think is best!


    The figures drifted closer, their forms growing more defined, and I could make out hollow eyes and elongated limbs. Their whispers grew louder, layering over each other, filling the chamber with a cacophony of voices that seemed to resonate in my bones.


    "Release¡­ us¡­"


    Kijin growled, baring his fangs as he positioned himself protectively between me and the nearest figure. Raijuu''s fur crackled with energy, ready to strike, but the figures didn''t seem to notice. Their gazes remained fixed on the object, their eyes empty but pleading.


    Without warning, one of the figures reached out, its skeletal fingers brushing against the edge of the object. A sharp jolt of energy surged through me, and for a split second, my vision went dark. Images flashed through my mind¡ªancient stone walls, flickering torchlight, and a massive door bound in chains.


    The vision faded, leaving me unsteady. I took a deep breath, glancing at the chat as it filled with concerned messages.


    : Tsukasa, are you okay? You just froze for a second.


    : Did anyone else see that? His face looked like he was somewhere else.


    : Something isn''t right. That object is cursed or something.


    I shook my head, regaining my focus. "I''m all right, chat. Just¡­ saw something. I think this seal is connected to whatever''s trapped down here. But if it''s keeping something locked away, then taking it might be a problem."


    The figures withdrew slightly, as if sensing my hesitation, their forms blurring at the edges. But the air grew colder, and a heavy, oppressive energy filled the room, pressing down on me from all sides. I knew that whatever was bound here was no ordinary dungeon creature. This was something ancient, something that might be better left undisturbed.


    I tightened my grip on the object, the faint hum still vibrating through my hand. "We''re moving forward, everyone. But if things get out of control, I''ll need to make a quick call on this."


    : We trust you, Tsukasa. Just be careful.


    : Forbidden Floors are no joke. Don''t take any chances.


    : This is history in the making! Just don''t get yourself hurt.


    I nodded, pocketing the object as we continued down the passage. The figures faded into the shadows, their whispers dying away, but I could still feel their presence, lingering just beyond sight. The tunnel twisted and turned, the air growing colder with each step, and soon we arrived at another chamber¡ªthis one vast and cavernous, the ceiling stretching high above, disappearing into darkness.


    In the center of the room stood a colossal stone structure, like an altar but larger, its surface covered in runes and markings that glowed faintly in the dark. Chains hung from the ceiling, thick and heavy, draping down to bind a massive, sealed door set into the far wall.


    My heart pounded as I approached, keeping the camera trained on the door. "Chat¡­ I think we found the heart of the Forbidden Floors. This door¡­ it''s locked, chained up tight. Whatever''s behind it must be something powerful."


    The chat erupted with speculation and excitement.


    : That door is giving me chills. What could they be keeping back there?


    : This feels like the final level of a horror game¡­ I don''t know if I want you to open it.


    : This could be the key to everything, Tsukasa! You''re so close. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kijin prowled around the edges of the room, his eyes fixed on the door, while Raijuu sniffed the air, his fur standing on end. I moved closer to the altar, examining the runes. They pulsed faintly, the energy feeling ancient, as if it had been here for countless centuries.


    As I reached out to touch one of the symbols, a sharp pulse of energy radiated from the altar, and a voice echoed through the chamber, deep and resonant.


    "You should not be here¡­"


    I froze, feeling the weight of the words settle over me. The voice was different from before¡ªmore authoritative, like a warning. My mind raced as I pulled my hand back, feeling the residual energy pulsing through my fingers.


    The chat was blowing up with messages.


    : Did you hear that? It sounded like it was warning you.


    : Tsukasa, this is intense. Maybe¡­ don''t touch anything else?


    : Whatever''s behind that door doesn''t want visitors. Be careful!


    I steadied my breathing, considering my options. This door, this altar, everything pointed to something ancient, something dangerous. And yet¡­ I couldn''t bring myself to leave. Not without understanding what was truly hidden here.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I whispered, signaling for them to stay alert. "Let''s be cautious."


    With my mind racing, I took another step toward the altar.

 Chapter 133: The Sealed Legacy

    The chamber seemed to grow colder, and each step forward made my skin prickle. The door was bound by thick, heavy chains, and every link glowed faintly, casting a dim light across the cavern. The engravings on the altar pulsed in sync with the chained door, and a steady, deep vibration filled the air, almost like the beat of a sleeping giant''s heart."Chat, this place¡­ it''s something else," I whispered, the eerie stillness sinking in. "It feels like we''re standing at the edge of something huge, something that''s been buried for a long time."


    The chat was buzzing with anxious excitement.


    : Don''t go any closer! I can''t shake the feeling that this is a trap.


    : What if that door holds something worse than anything you''ve faced?


    : This isn''t just a dungeon anymore. It''s a tomb.


    Kijin and Raijuu flanked me, their eyes never leaving the door. Kijin''s growl was low, almost a rumble, as if warning something in the darkness that he was ready. Raijuu''s fur bristled, faint arcs of lightning dancing along his body as he prepared for whatever might come next.


    Just as I stepped closer to the door, a sudden wave of energy surged through the room, rattling the chains and sending tremors across the floor. The whispers returned, louder, overlapping each other until they formed a single voice¡ªa deep, resonant tone that filled every corner of the chamber.


    "You seek knowledge that should remain buried¡­"


    My breath hitched as the words echoed around me, filling the air with a foreboding weight. This was no ordinary voice. It was layered, ancient, as though it had existed for millennia. The chat erupted in shock.


    : THAT VOICE! It sounded like a thousand voices at once!


    : This is the scariest thing I''ve ever seen in a dungeon. Tsukasa, don''t go further.


    : Whatever''s behind that door doesn''t want you to leave. Be careful.


    I took a steadying breath, fighting the urge to turn back. "Knowledge buried for a reason, huh?" I murmured to myself, staring at the door. "Well, sometimes we need to uncover the past to understand the present." Continue your saga on M-V-L


    The voice returned, softer but clearer, each word heavy with intent.


    "Then you shall witness¡­ the beginning."


    Before I could react, the chains around the door rattled violently, their glow intensifying until the entire chamber was bathed in an eerie, blue light. The symbols etched across the altar flared up, each one blazing with an intensity that made my skin prickle.


    The ground trembled as the chains began to loosen, sliding off the door one by one, clattering to the ground in a metallic cascade. Kijin''s growl grew louder, and Raijuu shifted, his muscles tensing as he prepared for what was about to emerge.


    "Chat¡­ this isn''t just a dungeon boss," I muttered, my voice tight with apprehension. "We''re dealing with something¡­ older. Something that might not belong here at all."


    The chat was buzzing with fear and speculation.


    : Are you sure you''re ready for this, Tsukasa? This feels like it''s beyond EX-rank.


    : Those chains were holding something back. If they''re breaking, it means whatever''s in there is coming out¡­


    : This might be the first time I''m actually scared for you. Stay sharp!


    The last chain fell to the ground with a deafening crash, and a moment of silence hung over the chamber, thick with anticipation. Then, slowly, the door creaked open, revealing a dark, impenetrable void within. The shadows shifted, coalescing into a form¡ªsomething humanoid yet distorted, a figure wrapped in darkness with eyes that glowed like embers.


    "I am the Keeper of the Forgotten,"


    it intoned, its voice filling the air, resonant and chilling.


    "You, who dare disturb my rest, shall bear the weight of my wrath."


    The chat exploded with reactions as the figure stepped out, each of its movements fluid yet unsettling, as though reality itself warped around it.


    : TSUKASA, THIS IS IT! THIS IS WHAT THE FLOOR WAS HIDING!


    : Keeper of the Forgotten¡­ that title sounds ominous. Be careful!


    : This is beyond anything you''ve fought before. Don''t underestimate it. sea??h th§× N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kijin and Raijuu positioned themselves on either side of me, their eyes locked on the Keeper. I could feel their tension, their readiness to strike, but I knew this fight would be unlike any we''d encountered. The Keeper''s gaze swept over us, cold and calculating, as if it could see through every layer of our defenses.


    Without warning, the Keeper raised a hand, and the air around us thickened, pressing down like an invisible weight. My knees buckled, and even Kijin and Raijuu staggered, their usual strength seeming to drain in the presence of this overwhelming force.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªstay sharp," I managed, gritting my teeth against the pressure. The Keeper''s power was palpable, ancient and potent, and I knew we''d have to play this carefully.


    The Keeper moved forward, its form shifting and flickering like a shadow cast by an unsteady flame. It lifted its hand again, sending a wave of darkness surging toward us. Kijin darted to the side, his movements swift as he avoided the attack, while Raijuu countered with a burst of lightning, the bolt crackling as it struck the Keeper''s form.


    The lightning hit, illuminating the chamber for a split second, but instead of recoiling, the Keeper absorbed the energy, its eyes glowing brighter as it advanced. My heart pounded as I realized that this creature was not only resilient but able to consume whatever energy we threw at it.


    The chat was going wild, messages pouring in.


    : It just absorbed Raijuu''s lightning! This thing is on another level.


    : How can you beat something that grows stronger with each attack?


    : This might be the first time I''m actually scared for Tsukasa¡­ This isn''t looking good.


    I clenched my fists, watching the Keeper''s every movement. This wasn''t a battle of brute force¡ªit would require precision, strategy, and restraint. Kijin and Raijuu regrouped, their gazes fixed on the creature as they awaited my signal.


    "Okay, new plan," I muttered, thinking quickly. "We can''t rely on direct attacks. We''ll need to find another way to weaken it."


    The Keeper moved again, its shadowy form twisting as it raised both hands, summoning tendrils of darkness that snaked across the ground, reaching out to ensnare us. Kijin leapt into action, dodging the tendrils with fluid grace, while Raijuu darted forward, his movements blurring as he narrowly avoided being caught.


    I watched closely, noticing that each time the Keeper''s tendrils touched the ground, the symbols etched into the stone pulsed faintly, as if reacting to the creature''s energy. An idea sparked in my mind.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªtry to drive it toward the altar!" I called, my voice steady. "We need to see if those symbols have any effect on it."


    The chat caught onto my plan, the messages filling the screen with support and tension.


    : Yes! The altar! Maybe it''s a binding point or something that can weaken it.


    : Genius move, Tsukasa! Use the environment against it!


    : This is getting intense. I don''t think my heart can take it.


    Kijin and Raijuu shifted, their movements strategic as they worked together to herd the Keeper toward the altar. Kijin struck with swift, calculated blows, each one forcing the Keeper back a step, while Raijuu launched a series of feints, his lightning striking the ground to create diversions.


    The Keeper seemed unfazed at first, but as it neared the altar, I noticed a faint flicker in its form, a hesitation in its movements. The symbols on the altar began to glow brighter, reacting to the creature''s proximity, and the air grew colder, the pressure intensifying.


    "Chat, I think we''re onto something," I murmured, adrenaline surging as the plan started to take shape. "This altar¡­ it''s affecting the Keeper somehow."


    : The symbols are lighting up! This has to be the key!


    : It''s working! Keep pushing it back, Tsukasa!


    : This is like watching an epic boss fight. Don''t let up!


    With one final push, Kijin and Raijuu drove the Keeper back until it stood directly in front of the altar. The symbols flared to life, casting the chamber in an intense, blinding light, and the Keeper recoiled, its form flickering erratically as though it were struggling to hold itself together.


    The air was thick with energy, and I could feel the weight of the altar''s power pressing down on the Keeper, forcing it to its knees. For the first time, the creature''s gaze faltered, its expression shifting from cold indifference to something that almost resembled fear.


    "This¡­ cannot¡­ be¡­"


    The voice was fractured, its resonance faltering as the light from the altar grew stronger, enveloping the Keeper in a cocoon of energy. I watched, heart pounding, as the creature''s form began to dissipate, its body unraveling like smoke caught in a powerful gust of wind.


    The chat was in a frenzy, cheering and speculating as the Keeper faded away.


    : You did it! That was unreal!


    : I can''t believe that worked. Tsukasa, you''re a genius!


    : This is history in the making! Forbidden Floors conquered!


    As the last remnants of the Keeper vanished, the chamber fell silent, the oppressive energy lifting. Kijin and Raijuu relaxed, their tension easing as they returned to my side. I exhaled, feeling the weight of the encounter settle over me.


    In the aftermath, I glanced at the object I''d taken from the earlier chamber, its engravings now glowing faintly, as though it had been activated by the encounter. Whatever lay deeper within the Forbidden Floors, I knew we''d only begun to scratch the surface.


    4o

 Chapter 134: Echoes of a Forgotten Past

    The silence following the Keeper''s defeat felt unnaturally heavy, as though the entire dungeon was holding its breath. The air had shifted, as if the energy trapped here for centuries had been released, leaving behind a strange emptiness. Kijin and Raijuu stood by my side, both of them visibly exhausted, but alert. I took a moment to catch my breath, my eyes drifting down to the object in my hand.Its faint glow had intensified, the symbols shifting and pulsing with an unfamiliar rhythm, as though awakening in response to the Keeper''s departure. A small, almost imperceptible hum vibrated through my fingertips, filling my mind with fragments of images and whispers that felt like distant memories¡ªhints of a story buried in time.


    The chat was alive with excitement and anticipation.


    : You did it, Tsukasa! That was the most insane battle yet!


    : This whole floor feels different now. Like you broke a seal or something.


    : What''s going on with that object? It''s glowing more than before!


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the object in my hand. "Whatever we unlocked¡­ it isn''t over. This object feels like it''s¡­ guiding us somewhere."


    Ahead of us, a narrow pathway opened up in the wall where the Keeper had fallen, revealing a dark tunnel lined with even more intricate symbols. They glowed faintly, as if inviting us to follow. The air inside the tunnel felt ancient and cold, laced with a presence that was at once both eerie and compelling.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, nodding toward the passage. They moved cautiously, their eyes flicking over every shadow, every faint glow along the walls. The further we ventured down the tunnel, the stronger the object''s hum became, resonating with the symbols that lined the walls.


    "Chat," I whispered, adjusting the camera to capture the strange, shifting light, "it feels like we''re being led somewhere. This entire place¡­ it''s reacting to the Keeper''s defeat."


    : Those symbols on the walls look different. They seem¡­ alive?


    : Is this like the next level of the dungeon? It feels like we''re stepping into forbidden history.


    : I have a bad feeling about this. But I can''t look away.


    The passageway eventually opened into another large chamber, and the sight that awaited us took my breath away. Massive stone tablets lined the walls, each one carved with scenes of ancient battles, mythical creatures, and figures dressed in armor unlike any I''d seen. At the center of the room stood a towering stone statue¡ªa figure shrouded in a cloak, with a sword held upright, its blade embedded in the ground.


    It looked like a warrior, a guardian, frozen in time. The statue''s eyes were made of dark crystals, and they glowed faintly, casting an eerie light over the chamber. The object in my hand pulsed stronger, resonating with the statue as if it recognized something in it.


    The chat filled with awe and speculation.


    : That statue¡­ it looks like some kind of ancient guardian!


    : The carvings look like they''re telling a story. Maybe about this warrior?


    : This is dungeon lore on a whole new level. You''re uncovering secrets no one else has seen.


    I approached the statue, holding the object out in front of me. As I did, the crystal eyes of the statue flared to life, casting a deep, ominous glow over the chamber. The hum from the object grew louder, filling the air with a vibration that resonated through my bones. I could feel something¡ªan energy, an awareness¡ªawakening in response to the object.


    Without warning, the ground trembled, and a voice echoed through the chamber, low and reverberating with age.


    "You¡­ who hold the seal¡­ have you come to unlock the legacy of the Forgotten?"


    The words hit me like a wave, each syllable weighted with a sense of purpose and finality. The chat was in a frenzy, reacting to the statue''s sudden awakening.


    : Did the statue just speak?! This is getting crazier by the second.


    : Unlock the legacy? What does that even mean?


    : Tsukasa, this is beyond anything we''ve seen. Be careful!


    My grip tightened on the object, my mind racing. "Yes," I whispered, barely able to keep my voice steady. "I¡­ I don''t know what legacy this is, but I want to understand."


    The statue''s eyes glowed brighter, and a deep rumble filled the chamber as the carvings on the stone tablets lit up, each scene illuminated in sequence as if telling a story. Images flickered across the walls¡ªbattles against monstrous creatures, figures wielding weapons of unimaginable power, ancient cities rising and falling. S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As the light reached the final tablet, it revealed an image that made my blood run cold: a figure, cloaked in shadows, standing before a massive door covered in chains¡ªthe same door I had seen in the earlier chambers, the very one that had held back the Keeper. Find exclusive content at M-V-L


    "The Forgotten¡­"


    the voice intoned, softer now, filled with something that sounded like sorrow.


    "They are not monsters¡­ but remnants of a past that was erased¡­ sealed away by those who feared them."


    The words resonated through the chamber, filling the air with a sense of tragedy and loss. I glanced at the chat, catching fragments of their reactions.


    : The Forgotten aren''t monsters? They were¡­ sealed away by someone?


    : This is insane. It''s like you''re uncovering ancient history!


    : I have a feeling that whatever did this¡­ it wasn''t good.


    The hum from the object intensified, and a faint glow appeared in the center of the room¡ªa swirling mass of light and shadow that seemed to coalesce into an image, a vision of a city covered in darkness, its streets filled with figures much like the Keeper. It was a memory, a glimpse into a world that had been erased.


    The statue''s voice grew softer, almost wistful. >


    "These were once our cities, our people¡­ they held powers that others feared. And so¡­ they were silenced."


    I stood frozen, feeling the weight of the history that had been buried in these depths. Whatever this place was, it held the memories of a civilization that had been cast aside, locked away in the dark. And I had just disturbed their slumber.


    Kijin and Raijuu remained alert, their gazes flicking between the statue and the faint images on the walls. The light from the tablets faded, and the vision disappeared, leaving only the statue''s glowing eyes fixed on me.


    "If you wish to proceed, know this¡­ the path you walk is one of danger and sacrifice. The Forgotten do not welcome intruders, nor do they seek redemption."


    The words echoed ominously, a final warning before the chamber fell silent. The object in my hand pulsed one last time, and I felt its weight settle, as if waiting for a decision.


    The chat was buzzing with emotions, their messages filling the screen in a flurry of excitement, fear, and determination.


    : This is it, Tsukasa. You''re unlocking something no one else has ever seen.


    : The Forgotten¡­ sounds like there''s more than one. This might be a bigger journey than you thought.


    : If you go forward, there might be no turning back. But we''re with you all the way!


    I took a deep breath, the weight of the decision settling over me. This wasn''t just about finding treasure or fighting monsters. It was about uncovering a legacy, a forgotten history that had been hidden for centuries. There were risks¡ªunimaginable ones¡ªbut the pull of understanding, of seeing this story through to the end, was too strong to ignore.


    Silently, I signaled for Kijin and Raijuu to follow. Whatever lay ahead, we would face it together.

 Chapter 135: The Path of Shadows

    The tunnel leading from the statue''s chamber was darker than the others, the air heavy with a foreboding presence. The symbols on the walls grew denser, each one flickering as though responding to our presence. Every step felt weighted, like I was treading through memories too ancient to be remembered, yet still clinging to this place with relentless resolve.Kijin prowled silently beside me, his body tense, while Raijuu''s fur crackled with small arcs of electricity. I kept my grip firm on the object in my hand, feeling its faint hum echo through me. This wasn''t just a tool or a relic anymore¡ªit was a key, a guide through the darkness.


    "Chat," I whispered, my voice barely audible, "we''re heading deeper. This path¡­ it feels different, like it''s leading us somewhere that hasn''t been disturbed in a long, long time."


    The chat lit up with a mix of concern and excitement.


    : Tsukasa, this is intense. Just watching is giving me chills.


    : The symbols are like nothing I''ve ever seen. This isn''t just a dungeon anymore.


    : Stay sharp! I don''t trust this place.


    The deeper we went, the stronger the pull became, as if the object was guiding me toward something. The tunnel finally opened up into a massive, circular chamber with walls stretching far beyond the light of my torch. At the center of the room stood a dark, monolithic structure, surrounded by pillars carved with intricate symbols that glowed faintly in the dark. They seemed to shift and change, as though alive.


    The chat reacted instantly.


    : That structure¡­ it''s like a giant seal or altar!


    : This is on a whole other level. I can''t believe what I''m seeing.


    : I feel like we''re about to uncover something world-changing.


    I took a tentative step forward, feeling the weight of the room press down on me. Every instinct screamed caution, but the pull from the object was relentless, urging me closer. As I approached the monolith, the symbols on the pillars began to glow brighter, their light illuminating faint images carved into the stone¡ªa series of scenes that seemed to tell a story.


    "What do you make of this, chat?" I whispered, focusing the camera on the carvings. "It''s like a timeline¡­ something about the Forgotten, maybe?"


    : It looks like a history of the Forgotten. I see figures and cities¡­ and that same cloaked figure.


    : I think it''s showing their rise, their powers¡­ and their imprisonment.


    : Tsukasa, I don''t know if this is wise. You''re dealing with ancient powers here.


    As I traced my hand over the carvings, a chill shot through my fingers. Images flooded my mind¡ªscenes of a civilization thriving, its people wielding strange and powerful abilities. The Forgotten weren''t just monsters; they were once a proud people, their powers feared by those who eventually sealed them away.


    Suddenly, a deep, resonant hum filled the air, and the ground beneath us trembled. The light from the pillars intensified, and a low voice echoed through the chamber.


    "You¡­ who hold the key¡­ do you wish to know the truth?"


    My heart pounded as the words filled the air, resonating with an ancient authority. Kijin and Raijuu tensed, their eyes fixed on the monolith as the symbols pulsed in sync with the voice.


    The chat was alive with reactions, a mix of awe and warning.


    : The truth? This feels like a point of no return¡­


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. Sometimes, the truth is buried for a reason.


    : We''re with you. Whatever happens, we''re in this together.


    I took a deep breath, my voice steady. "Yes. I want to understand. I want to know what really happened to the Forgotten."


    The monolith''s glow intensified, casting the entire chamber in an unearthly light. Shadows danced along the walls, forming images that shifted and twisted, creating a vision that seemed to pull me in. It was as if the very stones of this place were speaking, revealing a tale that had been hidden for centuries.


    "In ages past, the Forgotten were once revered, their powers unmatched, their wisdom sought by all. But as their influence grew, so did the fear of those who envied them. They were betrayed, cast into darkness, their legacy erased, their names forgotten."


    The vision shifted, showing scenes of betrayal and conflict, of allies turning into enemies, of powers too great to control. Figures in armor, wielding magic and strange devices, fought against the Forgotten, sealing them away in a prison designed to erase them from history.


    The chat was awestruck, each message pouring in with urgency.


    : They were betrayed¡­ this is heartbreaking.


    : It wasn''t a dungeon¡ªthey were imprisoned here! This changes everything. S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Tsukasa, you''re uncovering something huge. This isn''t just about exploration anymore.


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    The light faded, leaving a heavy silence in the room. I let the weight of the story settle over me, the realization of what we''d just uncovered filling me with a mix of awe and dread.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, glancing at them. "We''ve been walking through a grave¡­ a memory of a civilization that was wiped from history."


    Raijuu''s ears twitched, his gaze shifting to the shadows that seemed to gather around us, more dense and alive than before. Kijin''s eyes were sharp, his muscles tense, as if readying for an attack.


    Before I could react, a figure stepped out from the shadows¡ªa cloaked form, its face obscured, its presence radiating a sense of quiet menace. The chat froze as the figure raised its head, revealing eyes that glowed with a faint, unnatural light.


    "You have seen our story, bearer of the key. Do you seek to finish what they started¡­ or do you wish to undo their wrongs?"


    The figure''s voice was calm, but there was an edge to it, a lingering anger beneath the surface. I could feel the weight of the question pressing down on me, like the entire fate of this ancient people rested on my answer.


    The chat filled with conflicting messages, each viewer voicing their own opinions.


    : Undo the wrongs! They deserve justice after everything they went through.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This might be more dangerous than you think.


    : I don''t know if messing with ancient history is a good idea¡­ but I trust you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the object in my hand hum with energy. "I¡­ I don''t know if I can undo the past, but I want to understand. If there''s a way to right what happened, I want to know."


    The figure regarded me silently, its eyes narrowing. Then, with a slow, deliberate movement, it reached out, its hand hovering over the object in my grasp. The air grew colder, and the shadows thickened, pressing in from all sides as the figure''s touch connected with the object.


    A rush of energy surged through me, and my vision went dark. I was standing on the edge of a vast city, its towers and spires reaching toward a darkened sky. Figures moved through the streets, their faces obscured, their forms shifting like smoke. They were the Forgotten¡ªa people stripped of their identities, condemned to an existence hidden from the world.


    The voice returned, softer this time, filled with sorrow.


    "We do not seek vengeance. We seek remembrance. If you carry our legacy forward, if you tell our story, then our silence will end."


    The vision faded, and I was back in the chamber, the figure still before me, its gaze steady. I felt the weight of the object in my hand, as if it were a piece of their memory, entrusted to me.


    The chat was silent, as if everyone was holding their breath, waiting for my response.


    "I understand," I whispered, my voice filled with a newfound resolve. "I''ll carry your story. I''ll make sure that the Forgotten aren''t forgotten anymore."


    The figure''s eyes softened, a faint, almost imperceptible smile appearing on its shadowed face. The light around us dimmed, and the figure began to dissolve, its form fading into the shadows.


    "Thank you, bearer of the key. Our legacy rests with you."


    The room fell silent, the only sound the faint hum of the object in my hand. The chamber felt different now¡ªemptied of its ancient burdens, its secrets finally shared.


    The chat came alive, messages flooding the screen with words of support, awe, and determination.


    : You did it, Tsukasa. You gave them what they wanted.


    : This was more than a dungeon raid. This was a journey through history.


    : We''re with you. Whatever comes next, we''re ready.


    I glanced at Kijin and Raijuu, both of them watching me with a quiet understanding. This wasn''t just another dungeon floor, and I wasn''t just another explorer. I was now the keeper of their story, their final hope for remembrance.


    We turned to leave the chamber, the weight of the Forgotten''s legacy resting on my shoulders as we stepped into the darkness once more.

 Chapter 136: Echoes in the Dark

    The silence lingered as we stepped out of the chamber, leaving the monolith and the visions of the Forgotten behind. But their presence still clung to the air, their whispers echoing in my mind, filling each step with a new sense of weight. The light from the object I held had dimmed, as if content now that its message had been received, but it still pulsed faintly, a steady rhythm that seemed to guide us deeper.The chat was buzzing with reactions, their excitement tempered by the gravity of what we''d just uncovered. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Tsukasa, that was incredible. I can''t believe you''re carrying the legacy of the Forgotten.


    : You''re basically like an ancient historian now. This is huge.


    : It feels like something has changed in the dungeon. Like it''s watching you.


    I tightened my grip on the object, the weight of the Forgotten''s final words lingering in my mind. They hadn''t wanted vengeance; they had wanted remembrance. To carry their story forward, to make sure they weren''t erased from history, was now part of my journey. Kijin and Raijuu stayed close, their usual energy subdued as if they too felt the somber presence left behind by the Forgotten.


    The passage we followed twisted and narrowed, leading into the heart of the Forbidden Floors. Strange carvings adorned the walls, spiraling and shifting in patterns that seemed to move even when I stood still. The path ahead was shrouded in darkness, yet the faint hum from the object gave me a sense of direction.


    "Everyone," I murmured, my voice just a whisper, "we''re heading further in. Whatever''s down here¡­ it feels like it''s watching us."


    The chat was a mix of awe and concern.


    : You''re really going deeper? This floor is a whole different beast.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. That place is ancient, and it has its own rules.


    : Forbidden Floors or not, we''re with you all the way.


    The tunnel opened into another cavern, this one even larger than the last. Shadows clung to the walls, pooling in the corners like something alive. At the center of the room was a strange structure¡ªa stone pedestal, engraved with symbols that glowed faintly, casting an eerie light over the floor.


    I approached it cautiously, keeping the camera focused on the pedestal for the chat to see. The closer I got, the louder the object hummed, resonating with the markings on the pedestal. It was as if they were communicating, their energies intertwining in a language too old to understand.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, signaling them to stay alert. They flanked me, their eyes scanning the darkness as I held the object above the pedestal. For a moment, nothing happened, and then, slowly, the symbols on the pedestal began to glow, brighter and brighter until they cast the entire room in a pale, otherworldly light.


    The chat exploded with reactions.


    : What''s happening?! It''s like the whole room just came to life!


    : This is insane. Those symbols are reacting to the object!


    : Tsukasa, you''re unlocking something ancient. Be careful!


    The light from the pedestal coalesced, forming a spectral figure¡ªa woman clad in robes, her form flickering like an old memory. Her eyes were closed, and her expression was calm, but there was a solemnity to her presence that made the air feel heavy.


    I held my breath as the figure opened her eyes, her gaze settling on me. There was a weight to her stare, as if she could see through every layer of me, into my thoughts, my intentions.


    "Bearer of the key,"


    she intoned, her voice soft but resonant, filling the chamber with a sense of calm.


    "You have ventured far, touched by the memories of the Forgotten. But do you truly understand the cost of carrying their legacy?"


    The chat was silent for a moment, then flooded with questions and support.


    : Does she mean the cost of remembrance? What does she know?


    : Tsukasa, don''t back down! You''ve come this far.


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    : Whatever it is, we''re with you. Just keep going.


    I took a steadying breath. "I don''t fully understand yet," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. "But I want to know. I want to see this through."


    The woman''s expression softened, a hint of sadness flickering in her eyes. She raised a hand, gesturing toward the darkness surrounding us. Shadows began to twist and shift, forming images¡ªscenes from a forgotten time. I saw glimpses of cities, powerful figures wielding magic, battles waged in darkened skies. It was the history of the Forgotten, unraveling before us.


    "The Forgotten were not merely erased from history,"


    she continued, her voice filled with sorrow.


    "Their very existence was torn from the fabric of this world. To carry their memory is to carry their pain, their loss, their unfinished battle."


    The weight of her words settled over me, and I glanced down at the object in my hand, feeling its faint pulse as if responding to her. This wasn''t just about preserving a legacy; it was about shouldering the burden of a people who had been silenced.


    The chat was somber, their words echoing the gravity of the moment.


    : This is deeper than just a story. They''re asking you to carry their fight.


    : I didn''t realize the Forgotten went through so much. It''s tragic.


    : Tsukasa, we believe in you. If anyone can carry this, it''s you.


    The woman''s gaze softened as she looked at the object in my hand, then back at me. >


    "To carry their legacy is a choice. You can leave this place, and the weight will lift. Or you can continue, and bear the cost that comes with remembrance."


    I closed my eyes for a moment, the enormity of the decision settling over me. The Forgotten hadn''t asked for vengeance, nor had they sought redemption. They wanted their story to be known, to live on, even if only in the memories of those who walked these halls.


    When I opened my eyes, my resolve was clear. "I''ll carry it," I said firmly. "I''ll carry their memory, their story, and whatever burden comes with it."


    The woman''s expression softened further, and for the first time, I saw a hint of relief in her eyes. She reached out, her hand passing through the object, and a faint glow enveloped her form.


    "Then their story lives on. And with it, so shall you."


    Her form began to fade, the light dimming as she dissolved into the darkness, leaving only a lingering warmth in the room. The pedestal''s glow faded as well, the symbols returning to their dormant state, as if satisfied with the promise I''d made.


    The chat was alive with encouragement and support.


    : That was beautiful, Tsukasa. You''re carrying something sacred now.


    : The Forgotten deserve to be remembered. Thank you for doing this.


    : This journey is just beginning, but we''re with you every step of the way.


    I looked at Kijin and Raijuu, both of them watching me with calm understanding. Whatever lay ahead, we were no longer just explorers in a dungeon. We were now the bearers of a forgotten legacy, entrusted with a story that had been hidden in the depths of history.


    As we turned to leave the chamber, the symbols on the walls seemed to glow a little brighter, as if lighting the path ahead. The weight of the Forgotten''s story rested on my shoulders, but for the first time, I felt a sense of clarity.


    We stepped into the shadows, the echoes of the past following us, guiding us deeper into the unknown.

 Chapter 137: The Light in the Abyss

    As we moved away from the chamber, a solemn silence filled the air, broken only by the faint, rhythmic pulse of the object in my hand. The dark passages seemed to narrow around us, as though the dungeon itself was shifting, aware of our intentions, of the legacy we now carried. The light from the object was our only guide, casting eerie shadows that danced along the rough stone walls.Kijin''s steps were cautious, his ears flicking at every sound, while Raijuu remained close to me, his fur charged with faint crackles of electricity. I could sense their wariness, their awareness of the gravity of what we had just undertaken. We weren''t just exploring a dungeon anymore. We were on a path that bridged the past with the present, the living with the forgotten.


    "Chat," I murmured, glancing at the scrolling messages on my screen. "We''re not just in a dungeon anymore. This place feels¡­ alive, as if it knows we''ve chosen to carry its secrets."


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    The chat was a mix of awe and caution.


    : Tsukasa, this is intense. It''s like the dungeon is reacting to you.


    : Whatever lies ahead, stay strong. You''re carrying something huge.


    : This is like watching a legend in the making. We''re with you every step.


    The corridor eventually opened into a vast cavern, larger than any we''d seen before. At the center of the room was a colossal archway, carved from stone so dark it seemed to absorb the light. Intricate symbols ran along its surface, pulsing faintly, casting a cold, pale glow over the floor. Beyond the archway was only darkness¡ªa void so deep that even the light from my torch couldn''t penetrate it.


    I felt a shiver run down my spine. This wasn''t an ordinary dungeon portal or gateway. It was something more, something ancient and powerful, like a doorway between worlds.


    Kijin and Raijuu stopped beside me, their eyes fixed on the archway. I could feel their tension, their readiness to defend if something emerged from that darkness. But the object in my hand pulsed softly, guiding us forward, as if it recognized the archway as part of its own forgotten story.


    "Look at this, chat," I whispered, focusing the camera on the archway. "This isn''t just any portal. It''s like¡­ a bridge, maybe a gateway to the past."


    The chat was alive with excitement and fear.


    : That archway looks like it leads somewhere else entirely. Be careful!


    : It''s like something out of a myth. Whatever''s on the other side¡­ it''s not of this world.


    : You''re walking into history itself, Tsukasa. Just be ready.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of my decision settling over me. There was no turning back now. The Forgotten''s story had to be told, and I was the only one who could carry it forward. With a nod to Kijin and Raijuu, I stepped toward the archway, the object''s glow intensifying with each step.


    As we passed through the archway, a wave of cold swept over us, as though we were stepping into another realm entirely. The world shifted, and the darkness lifted, revealing a scene that took my breath away.


    We stood on the edge of a massive, underground city, its structures carved from stone that glowed faintly with a silvery light. Towers stretched toward the ceiling, their surfaces covered in ancient runes and symbols that shimmered like stars. The city was silent, frozen in time, yet filled with an energy that felt alive, like a memory waiting to be awakened.


    The chat was awestruck.


    : An entire city? Hidden beneath the dungeon?! This is beyond anything we''ve seen.


    : It''s like you''ve discovered a lost civilization. Tsukasa, you''re in the heart of the Forgotten''s world.


    : I can''t believe this is real. You''re literally walking through history.


    I stepped forward, my footsteps echoing in the vast silence of the city. Kijin and Raijuu followed, their eyes scanning the buildings, their movements cautious but curious. Every structure, every pathway felt purposeful, like the remnants of a story waiting to be uncovered.


    As we walked, I noticed faint carvings along the walls¡ªscenes of life, of people gathered in the streets, of festivals and gatherings, of a community thriving. The Forgotten hadn''t just been powerful; they had been a people with a culture, a society that had been erased from existence.


    I ran my fingers over the carvings, feeling a pang of sadness. This wasn''t just a dungeon. It was a grave, a monument to a people who had been erased from history.


    "Chat," I murmured, my voice barely a whisper, "we''re standing in the remnants of the Forgotten''s world. This city¡­ it''s like a memory, preserved in the dark."


    The chat was silent for a moment, then filled with words of encouragement and reverence. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Tsukasa, thank you for sharing this with us. This is¡­ beautiful.


    : I never imagined a dungeon could hold something like this. You''re honoring their memory.


    : This is why we watch you. You''re not just a dungeon explorer¡ªyou''re a storyteller.


    As I continued through the streets, a soft, ethereal light appeared at the edge of the city, casting a gentle glow over the buildings. The object in my hand pulsed in sync with the light, guiding us forward. I followed it, feeling a strange mix of anticipation and respect.


    We reached the source of the light¡ªa small, open square with a stone pedestal at its center. On the pedestal lay an ornate crystal, its surface etched with runes that shimmered in the darkness. It glowed softly, casting a warm light that felt comforting, almost like a heartbeat.


    The chat was filled with awe and wonder.


    : That crystal¡­ it looks like the heart of the city.


    : I think this is what the Forgotten wanted you to find. Their legacy.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This feels important.


    I approached the crystal, feeling its energy radiate through the air. It wasn''t just a relic; it was a memory, a piece of the Forgotten''s essence. As I reached out to touch it, a faint whisper echoed in my mind, soft and distant, like a voice from another time.


    "Bearer of the key¡­ thank you¡­ for remembering us."


    A warmth filled my chest, and I felt a surge of emotion that I couldn''t quite place. It was as if the entire city, the memories of the Forgotten, were flowing into me, entrusting me with their story. I closed my eyes, letting the energy wash over me, feeling a sense of connection, of purpose.


    When I opened my eyes, the crystal had dimmed, its light fading as though it had fulfilled its purpose. The city around us felt different, quieter, as if its spirit had finally found peace.


    The chat was filled with messages of support and reverence.


    : That was beautiful, Tsukasa. You''ve given them what they wanted.


    : This journey has been incredible. Thank you for bringing us with you.


    : You''re carrying something sacred now. Whatever comes next, we''re with you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the Forgotten''s legacy settle within me. This wasn''t just a story or a memory¡ªit was a part of me now, a responsibility to carry their voice forward.


    As I turned to leave the city, Kijin and Raijuu followed, their gazes steady, their loyalty unwavering. We made our way back through the streets, the silence of the city now filled with a sense of peace. The light from the archway guided us back, casting one final glow over the ancient stones as we stepped through.


    The pathway beyond was dark, but I knew that the journey wasn''t over. The Forgotten''s story would live on, and I would carry it, one step at a time, into the light.

 Chapter 138: Whispers of the Living Dungeon

    The silence lingered as we stepped away from the ancient city, its fading light casting the passage into a cold, eerie darkness. Every step felt heavier, as if I were carrying not just the memories of the Forgotten, but their very essence. The faint pulse of the object I held seemed to guide us, it had a quiet, steady rhythm echoing the heartbeat of a people long gone.Kijin prowled forward, with his steps slow and deliberate, and his senses heightened. Raijuu stayed close, his eyes scanning the shadows as faint sparks crackled along his fur. I could feel their tension, a readiness to protect as we ventured deeper into the Forbidden Floors.


    "Chat look at this," I murmured, adjusting the camera to capture the darkness unfolding around us, "the city¡­ it was just the beginning. The path ahead feels different, it feels like..... it''s alive."


    The chat was buzzing with a mix of excitement and concern.


    : That city was unbelievable. I feel like we just walked through a lost world.


    : You''re still going further? This place feels like it has a mind of its own.


    : Whatever''s down there, stay safe, Tsukasa. We''re here with you.


    As we moved deeper, I noticed a change in the air¡ªthicker, colder, and laced with an energy that felt strangely aware, like the dungeon itself was watching. Symbols carved into the walls glowed faintly, illuminating the narrow path ahead, their flickering light casting strange shadows that danced along the stone.


    The object in my hand pulsed stronger, its rhythm syncing with the symbols, as though responding to their call. I felt an odd tug, a pull that urged me forward, and despite the creeping chill, I knew I had to press on.


    Suddenly, a low hum filled the air, and the symbols on the walls flared brighter, their light intensifying as the ground beneath us trembled. Kijin''s ears flattened, his body tense, while Raijuu''s fur stood on end, his gaze locked on the darkness ahead.


    "What''s going on?" I whispered, scanning the shadows as the hum grew louder, filling the air with an unsettling resonance. The chat was in a frenzy, reacting to the unexpected shift in the dungeon''s energy.


    : The symbols are alive! It''s like the dungeon is¡­ responding to you.


    : I have a bad feeling about this. Is the dungeon¡­ waking up?


    : Tsukasa, be careful. This feels different from anything we''ve seen before.


    The light from the symbols coalesced, forming a hazy, spectral shape that flickered in and out of view, as though caught between this world and another. The figure was tall and cloaked, its form shifting like mist, and a faint whisper drifted through the air¡ªa voice layered with age and mystery.


    "Bearer of memory¡­ why do you tread upon sacred ground?" Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A chill ran down my spine as the voice echoed through the passage. It was different from the other voices, more resonant, filled with an ancient authority that made the air feel heavy. I took a deep breath, steadying my nerves.


    "I¡­ I''m here to understand," I replied, my voice barely more than a whisper. "To carry the story of those who came before."


    The figure''s gaze settled on me, its eyes glowing faintly beneath its hood. The chat was silent, each message conveying a mix of awe and fear.


    : This isn''t just a dungeon boss. This feels like¡­ something more.


    : Did it call you the bearer of memory? Tsukasa, what does that mean?


    : Whatever''s going on, you''re handling it like a pro. Just stay safe.


    The figure tilted its head, its form wavering as though caught in a distant memory. >


    "The Forgotten''s story¡­ lies heavy upon you. But there is more to be seen, more to be understood."


    The object in my hand pulsed, resonating with the figure''s presence, and suddenly, my vision shifted. I was no longer in the dungeon but standing amidst scenes of battles and ruins, echoes of the past flashing before me¡ªa people cast out, betrayed, fighting for survival. Their powers, once revered, had become their curse, sealing their fate.


    And then, the images faded, leaving a single, clear memory¡ªa doorway, ancient and bound by chains, hidden deep within the heart of the Forbidden Floors. A shiver ran through me. This was their prison, the very core of the dungeon, a place where their power had been bound.


    The chat was filled with shock and awe.


    : That was¡­ intense. Did we just see their prison? This is so much bigger than I thought.


    : A sealed doorway? That''s got to be the heart of the dungeon.


    : Tsukasa, this is on another level. Whatever''s down there, it''s not just a monster.


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    The spectral figure''s voice returned, softer this time, laced with sorrow. >


    "You have seen our end, but the true story lies within. Do you wish to walk further, bearer of memory?"


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of my decision settle over me. I had come this far, carrying their legacy, uncovering pieces of a history that had been silenced. But this next step¡ªit felt like it would be a final test, a confrontation with the heart of their story.


    "Yes," I replied, my voice steady. "I''ll go as far as I need to, to understand."


    The figure inclined its head, a faint glow emanating from its form as it slowly faded into the shadows. The light from the symbols dimmed, leaving only the faint pulse of the object to guide us.


    As we pressed forward, the air grew colder, and the passage narrowed, twisting in unnatural ways as though the very walls were alive, responding to our presence. Kijin and Raijuu stayed close, their eyes sharp and alert, their movements cautious but determined.


    The chat was a mix of encouragement and warnings.


    : This is it. You''re heading toward the heart of the dungeon.


    : Just be careful, Tsukasa. This place has its own rules.


    : We''re here with you. Whatever happens, we''re not going anywhere.


    Finally, we reached a chamber larger than any I''d seen, a vast, empty space with high, arched ceilings and walls covered in intricate symbols. At the center of the room stood the doorway I had seen in the vision¡ªa massive stone door bound in heavy chains, each link inscribed with ancient runes that glowed faintly in the dim light.


    The object in my hand pulsed with a frantic rhythm, as if urging me forward. I felt its energy radiate through me, filling me with a mixture of anticipation and dread. This was the heart of the Forbidden Floors, the place where the Forgotten''s story had been sealed away.


    The chat was tense, filled with messages of support and awe.


    : That door¡­ it''s like a prison. You''re standing at the core of the dungeon!


    : The chains have runes! This isn''t just a door¡ªit''s a boundary.


    : Tsukasa, you''re about to uncover something huge. Just¡­ be careful.


    I took a step closer, feeling the weight of the room settle over me. The chains rattled faintly, as though responding to my presence, and a low hum filled the air, growing louder with each passing second. I could feel the power radiating from the door, a force that had been contained for centuries.


    With a steady hand, I raised the object, its light merging with the symbols on the chains. The runes glowed brighter, and a faint, ghostly whisper echoed through the chamber.


    "Release us¡­"


    My heart raced as the whisper filled the room, carrying with it the weight of countless voices¡ªechoes of the Forgotten, trapped in this prison, their stories erased, their voices silenced. This was their last remnant, the final piece of their legacy, bound within the heart of the dungeon.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their plea settle over me. "I''m here to remember," I whispered. "To carry your story forward."


    The chains trembled, each link vibrating with a faint, rhythmic pulse. The chat was alive with a mix of awe and caution, their messages flowing across the screen.


    : Are you going to release them? This feels¡­ so intense.


    : This is what the Forgotten wanted. Their story deserves to be known.


    : Whatever happens, we''re with you, Tsukasa. Let''s do this.


    I took one final step forward, pressing the object against the chains. A surge of energy filled the room, the runes glowing brighter until the entire chamber was bathed in light. The chains began to crack, each link shattering with a resounding echo that reverberated through the air.


    As the final chain fell away, the door creaked open, revealing a swirling darkness beyond¡ªa void that seemed to pulse with a life of its own, a boundary between worlds. I felt a pull, a whisper urging me forward, into the unknown.


    The chat was silent, the gravity of the moment filling the screen with anticipation.


    With a final glance at Kijin and Raijuu, I took a deep breath and stepped through the doorway, feeling the weight of the Forgotten''s legacy settle over me as the darkness closed in.

 Chapter 139: The World Between Worlds

    The darkness enveloped us as we passed through the doorway, its silence deep and consuming. For a moment, I could see nothing¡ªonly an endless void stretching in every direction. Then, gradually, a faint light began to emerge, shimmering in the distance like a distant star, drawing us forward.Kijin and Raijuu flanked me, their forms barely visible in the dim glow. The object in my hand pulsed steadily, its rhythm guiding us toward the faint light ahead. It was as if the object held a memory of this place, guiding us through a path it knew but I had yet to understand.


    "Chat, I can''t even describe where we are," I murmured, feeling a strange reverence. "This¡­ this isn''t just another room or chamber. It''s like we''ve crossed into another world."


    The chat was flooded with awe and excitement.


    : It''s like you''ve stepped into the Forgotten''s realm. This is unbelievable!


    : I can''t believe we''re seeing this. Whatever lies ahead, just be careful, Tsukasa. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : This is literally beyond anything. You''re carrying a legacy into the unknown.


    The light grew closer, revealing a vast space that felt both boundless and confined. Strange structures, twisted and ancient, appeared on either side, their surfaces inscribed with runes that glowed faintly, as though whispering secrets too ancient for words. The air felt heavy, filled with the presence of countless voices, each one an echo of a forgotten story.


    Ahead of us, the light solidified, forming a figure that stood in the center of the void. Cloaked in shadows, the figure''s face was obscured, but its presence was undeniable, radiating an aura of power and age beyond comprehension.


    I held my breath as the figure turned toward us, and a voice, soft yet commanding, filled the air.


    "Bearer of memory, you have entered the realm of the Forgotten. Why have you come?"


    The voice was layered, echoing with countless tones and emotions. It was as if every soul that had ever walked this place spoke through this one figure, each adding its own note to the symphony of voices.


    "I came to carry your story," I replied, my voice steady despite the overwhelming presence before me. "To ensure that the Forgotten are remembered, that your legacy endures."


    The figure''s head tilted slightly, and I felt its gaze settle on me, piercing and unyielding. The chat was filled with a mix of awe and apprehension, their messages a chorus of support.


    : This feels like a trial. Tsukasa, be strong.


    : You''re carrying their history. This is your moment.


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    : Whatever happens, we''re here with you. The Forgotten deserve to be known.


    The figure extended a hand, and with it, images filled the void around us¡ªscenes of ancient battles, of cities consumed by darkness, of people who wielded powers that defied comprehension. Each image was a fragment of the Forgotten''s story, a piece of their legacy that had been hidden away.


    "The memory you carry is a burden, a weight that many could not bear. Yet you have chosen this path willingly. Do you understand the cost?"


    I felt the weight of the question settle over me, each word resonating with a sense of finality. This wasn''t just about remembering the past; it was about becoming a vessel for a history erased from existence, a voice for those silenced by time.


    "I understand," I replied, my voice unwavering. "I''m prepared to bear that burden, whatever it may bring."


    The figure''s form shifted, its shadows twisting as it seemed to consider my response. For a moment, the air was filled with silence, a silence that felt as ancient as the void itself.


    Then, slowly, the figure raised its other hand, revealing a small, glowing crystal¡ªits surface inscribed with runes similar to those on the object I held. The crystal pulsed with a soft, steady light, and I felt its energy reach out, connecting with the object in my hand.


    "This is the heart of our memory,"


    the figure intoned, its voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and pride.


    "A fragment of our essence, preserved in the darkness. Take it, and with it, carry our story to the world beyond."


    The crystal floated toward me, its light growing brighter with each pulse. I reached out, feeling its warmth in my hand, and a surge of energy filled me¡ªa flood of memories, emotions, and voices, each one a piece of the Forgotten''s legacy.


    The chat was silent, their awe palpable as they witnessed the exchange.


    : You''re holding their heart¡­ This is beyond anything we could''ve imagined.


    : This isn''t just a dungeon anymore. It''s a bridge to a world that''s been lost.


    : Tsukasa, this is the most incredible thing I''ve ever seen. You''re their last hope.


    I looked down at the crystal, feeling its energy settle within me, merging with the object I had carried all this way. The two pieces resonated, their combined power filling me with a sense of purpose, a clarity I had never known.


    The figure''s voice softened, its form flickering as though it were fading. >


    "Go forth, bearer of memory. Let our story be told, let our voices echo through time. And may our legacy live on through you."


    The figure dissolved into light, its final words lingering in the air as the void around us began to shift, the darkness lifting to reveal the passage from which we had come. The way back was open, but the weight of the journey, of the memories entrusted to me, felt heavier than ever.


    Kijin and Raijuu stepped forward, their gazes calm and steady, as though sensing the significance of the moment. Together, we turned back toward the passage, each step filled with a sense of resolve.


    As we crossed the threshold, the darkness receded, and we were back in the familiar stone corridors of the Forbidden Floors. The light from the crystal and the object in my hand had dimmed, their glow now a soft, steady rhythm that pulsed in sync with my heartbeat.


    The chat was alive with emotion, their messages flooding the screen.


    : Tsukasa, thank you. You carried their legacy. You gave them a voice.


    : This is beyond anything I ever expected from a dungeon stream. You''re a part of history now.


    : You honored the Forgotten. Their story will live on because of you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the Forgotten''s memory settle within me, a burden that was both humbling and empowering. This wasn''t just another dungeon. It was a testament, a final resting place for a people who had been erased from history.


    "We did it, everyone," I whispered, my voice filled with gratitude. "Their story is safe, and their voices¡­ they''ll be heard."


    As we made our way back through the Forbidden Floors, the path felt lighter, the darkness less oppressive. The Forgotten had left their mark, a memory that would live on, and I was honored to carry it forward.

 Chapter 140: The Weight of Remembrance

    Emerging from the heart of the Forbidden Floors, the atmosphere felt markedly different. The oppressive shadows that had once clung to every wall seemed to lift, leaving an almost peaceful stillness in their place. Each step now echoed, a quiet testament to the silence left behind by the Forgotten. Kijin and Raijuu walked beside me, their movements steady, almost reverent, as if they too understood the weight of the memory we now carried."Chat," I said softly, my voice breaking the profound quiet, "it feels like a chapter just closed¡­ but it''s not the end. Their story is only beginning to be told."


    The chat was alive with an outpouring of support and awe.


    : You honored the Forgotten, Tsukasa. They''ll never be forgotten again.


    : I don''t think any dungeon explorer has ever uncovered something this powerful.


    : This isn''t just about dungeons anymore. You''re carrying a legacy.


    The object in my hand¡ªnow joined with the heart of the Forgotten¡ªpulsed gently, a soft glow radiating from its core. It felt as if the crystal held within it an entire world, a weight that was both heavy and strangely comforting. Their voices, their memories, their hopes¡­ all now entrusted to me.


    We continued our journey through the dim corridors, and I could feel the dungeon shift around us. The walls, once oppressive and cold, now felt warmer, the carvings no longer ominous but rather like guardians, watching over us. It was as if the dungeon itself acknowledged the closure of the Forgotten''s story, a rare peace settling over a place that had long been shrouded in sorrow.


    The chat seemed to sense this shift, filling the screen with messages of reverence.


    : The dungeon feels¡­ lighter? Is it just me, or did something change?


    : I think they''re at peace now. The whole atmosphere is different.


    : This is a moment we''ll never forget. Thank you for sharing it with us, Tsukasa.


    As we navigated through the winding passages, something caught my eye¡ªa faint glow emanating from an alcove on the side. Curious, I approached it, holding the camera steady to give the chat a clear view. The alcove contained a stone pedestal, and on it rested a small, ornate box, its surface covered in symbols that mirrored those on the crystal.


    I hesitated, glancing at Kijin and Raijuu. They both stared at the box, their eyes calm yet alert, as if they, too, sensed the significance of this discovery.


    "Chat, this looks like¡­ an offering," I murmured, reaching out to touch the box. "It feels like a gift, maybe something left behind by the Forgotten."


    The chat was filled with anticipation.


    : Open it! This might be a final blessing from them.


    : Whatever''s inside, it feels like a token of their gratitude.


    : Be careful, but¡­ I think they wanted you to find this.


    With careful hands, I lifted the lid of the box. Inside lay a piece of parchment, its surface worn but the writing still clear. The characters were in the same ancient language I had seen throughout the dungeon, yet somehow, I could read them. It was as if the crystal''s energy was translating the message, each word forming clearly in my mind.


    "To the bearer of memory: We offer you our blessing, a token of strength to carry our story forward. In our final moments, may our legacy live through you."


    A warmth filled my chest, a feeling of gratitude and connection that transcended words. They were truly at peace now, their final wish entrusted to a stranger who had walked through their forgotten world, willing to bear the burden of remembrance.


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    I reached into the box and found a small amulet¡ªa simple stone, smooth and polished, with a faint glow emanating from its core. As I held it, I felt a surge of energy course through me, a strength that was both physical and spiritual. The amulet wasn''t just an artifact; it was a piece of their essence, a symbol of their trust.


    The chat erupted with messages of awe and reverence.


    : They gave you their blessing! That''s¡­ that''s incredible.


    : This isn''t just an item. It''s a part of them, living on through you.


    : Tsukasa, you''re carrying something sacred. You''ve truly become a part of their legacy.


    I slipped the amulet around my neck, feeling its weight settle against my chest. It was a constant, comforting presence, a reminder that I was not alone in this journey. The Forgotten''s story, their strength, their hope for remembrance¡ªall of it now lived within me.


    As we continued through the dungeon, I could feel the crystal''s energy resonating with the amulet, a quiet pulse that seemed to guide our steps. Kijin and Raijuu remained close, their eyes reflecting the calm strength of the Forgotten''s blessing. The path ahead felt lighter, as though the dungeon itself had transformed from a place of sorrow to one of honor, a hallowed ground that would now bear witness to their story.


    The chat was silent for a moment, then filled with messages of encouragement and support.


    : Thank you, Tsukasa. This journey was beyond anything we could''ve imagined.


    : You''re carrying their memory, and we''re here with you every step of the way.


    : Whatever happens next, know that you''ve given the Forgotten a voice.


    As we neared the entrance of the Forbidden Floors, the shadows began to lift, revealing the familiar stone walls of the upper levels. But even here, I could feel a shift in the air¡ªa subtle warmth, a sense of closure that had permeated the entire dungeon. The story of the Forgotten, once silenced, now echoed through these halls, their voices no longer lost.


    I paused at the threshold, turning back for one final glance into the depths of the Forbidden Floors. The glow from the amulet and the crystal pulsed in unison, a steady rhythm that filled me with a quiet sense of purpose.


    "Thank you," I whispered, my words barely a breath. "Your story won''t be forgotten. I promise."


    With Kijin and Raijuu by my side, we stepped out of the Forbidden Floors, emerging into the familiar light of the upper dungeon. The chat was alive with messages, each one a testament to the impact of our journey.


    : This was a journey beyond words, Tsukasa. Thank you for honoring their story.


    : I''ll never look at dungeons the same way again. You''ve changed everything. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : You''ve truly become the bearer of memory. This story will live on because of you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their gratitude settle over me. This journey, this legacy¡ªnone of it had been expected. But it was an honor I would carry with pride, a story I would share, not just for myself, but for those who had been silenced, forgotten, and erased.

 Chapter 141: Echoes on the Way Back

    Leaving the heart of the Forbidden Floors felt surreal, like stepping out of a long-forgotten memory and back into reality. As the weight of the journey lifted slightly, my senses seemed sharper, taking in every detail of the dungeon''s upper corridors¡ªthe damp stone walls, the faint echoes of distant creatures, the flickering torches lighting the way back.Kijin padded silently beside me, his ears pricked forward, alert but calm. Raijuu''s sparks had diminished, but I could feel the lingering energy around him. They both seemed to sense a change, as if even the dungeon''s familiar upper levels held new meaning after our descent.


    "Chat," I murmured, adjusting the camera, "it''s strange. We''ve been through these floors dozens of times, but¡­ something feels different now."


    The chat''s responses rolled in, each viewer interpreting our return in their own way.


    : It''s like you''re seeing it through new eyes.


    : Even the regular floors feel different after everything we''ve seen.


    : Do you think the rest of the dungeon is affected by the Forbidden Floors now?


    I nodded slightly. "Maybe it''s the shift in perspective. Knowing what lies below¡ªit changes things. But whatever it is, we''re not the same explorers who first came down here."


    The path was quiet, and I found myself more aware of the subtle sounds around us. The steady drip of water somewhere in the distance. The faint scuttle of something small in the shadows. Every sound seemed sharper, more pronounced, as though the dungeon itself was watching. Explore more stories at M-V-L


    Kijin suddenly stopped, his head tilted, ears flicking as he listened to a sound just out of range. I halted, motioning to Raijuu to stay close. A faint, low hum echoed from up ahead, vibrating against the stone walls. It was rhythmic, not quite mechanical but strangely familiar, resonating with an energy that made my skin prickle.


    The chat reacted instantly.


    : Do you hear that? It sounds like¡­ a heartbeat?


    : I swear, it''s like the dungeon itself is alive now.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This isn''t normal.


    I adjusted my grip on the camera, moving forward slowly. "Yeah, chat, I hear it too. It''s faint, but¡­ it''s almost like the rhythm of the crystal."


    The pulsing continued, growing slightly stronger with each step. It felt alive, resonating with the amulet at my chest, as if echoing the energy of the Forbidden Floors. I glanced at the crystal, noticing its faint glow had returned, and with each pulse, the glow synchronized with the distant hum.


    Kijin''s ears flicked back, his muscles tensing as he crouched low, ready for anything. Raijuu''s fur bristled again, sparks dancing along his tail as he moved closer, eyes sharp and focused. The three of us advanced carefully, listening to the hum that seemed to guide us.


    "Whatever it is," I whispered, more to myself than to the chat, "it''s connected to the Forbidden Floors. Maybe this is their way of reminding us¡­ or guiding us."


    The chat was a mix of excitement and nerves.


    : It''s like they''re still reaching out, even from below.


    : This feels like a test. Are we really leaving the dungeon, or is something waiting?


    : You''re carrying their legacy. This might just be the beginning.


    Ahead, the corridor opened into a small chamber. The hum was louder now, reverberating off the walls in a steady rhythm, its intensity seeming to build as we entered the space. The chamber was empty save for a stone pedestal at its center, similar to the one we had found in the heart of the Forbidden Floors. Symbols lined its surface, each one glowing faintly, reflecting the energy of the amulet I now wore.


    I held the camera steady, letting the chat see the pedestal in full.


    "Look at this, chat. This pedestal¡ªsame markings, same energy. It''s like a message they left behind."


    The chat responded immediately.


    : This can''t be a coincidence. They wanted you to find this.


    : Another message, maybe? It''s almost like a breadcrumb trail.


    : Whatever''s happening, don''t leave without checking it out.


    I approached the pedestal cautiously, feeling the energy resonate through me as I drew near. The symbols pulsed gently, as if reacting to my presence, and I felt a warmth emanate from the amulet, the energy flowing from it into the pedestal. It was as though the pedestal was reading the energy I carried, responding to the legacy of the Forgotten that had been entrusted to me.


    Suddenly, a faint image appeared above the pedestal¡ªa projection of sorts, shimmering in the dim light. The figure was cloaked, its features obscured, but there was something familiar about its posture, its presence. It was as if a fragment of the Forgotten''s spirit had come forward, reaching out through the remnants of its ancient energy.


    The chat was transfixed, their messages flooding the screen.


    : It''s them. The Forgotten are speaking through this place.


    : Are we about to get another message? This is unreal.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This might be more than just a projection.


    The figure raised its hand slowly, and a soft voice filled the chamber, layered and resonant, echoing with the wisdom of ages.


    "Bearer of memory¡­ the path you walk is not yet complete. Our story lives within you, but there is still more to understand, more to uncover."


    I held my breath, listening to the words with a strange sense of calm. This wasn''t just a projection; it felt like a direct connection to the essence of the Forbidden Floors, a part of their memory reaching out from beyond.


    "What else do I need to understand?" I asked, my voice steady but filled with curiosity. "I thought I was carrying your story. What more is there?"


    The figure''s form wavered, shifting slightly as though considering my question.


    "To carry our memory is to carry our purpose. But to truly honor it, you must return to the places we once knew, the lands that bore our people''s name."


    The chat was a mix of awe and confusion. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Places they once knew? Does this mean there are more locations tied to the Forgotten?


    : Is this going beyond the dungeon? You might be looking at a whole new journey.


    : They''re guiding you to something. This isn''t over.


    I glanced down at the amulet, feeling its warmth intensify as the figure''s words resonated through the air. The crystal seemed to pulse with a renewed energy, as though it held a map, a memory of lands that lay beyond the dungeon''s walls.


    "What are these places?" I asked, focusing on the figure. "How do I find them?"


    "Look to the light within the crystal. It will guide you."


    The figure''s image flickered, the glow from the symbols fading slightly, as though the connection was growing weaker. The hum that had filled the chamber began to dim, the energy dispersing slowly. I could feel the weight of their final message settle over me¡ªa direction, a purpose that extended beyond the depths of the Forbidden Floors.


    Kijin and Raijuu both glanced at me, their expressions unreadable but calm. I could tell they, too, sensed the importance of the message, the weight of the legacy that had now become more than just a story.


    The chat was filled with a sense of anticipation.


    : This isn''t just about the dungeon anymore. You''re being called to something bigger.


    : They''re guiding you somewhere¡ªlike a map to another piece of their history.


    : Whatever it is, Tsukasa, we''re with you. This is a story that has to be told.


    The figure''s image flickered one last time before dissolving into a faint glow that settled over the pedestal. The symbols dimmed, returning to their dormant state, and the hum faded into silence. The only light now came from the crystal and the amulet, their soft, steady rhythm like a heartbeat, echoing with a quiet urgency.


    I took a steadying breath, the weight of their message settling over me. This journey wasn''t over¡ªit was leading somewhere beyond the dungeon, to places that held the Forgotten''s memories, their legacy, their final secrets.


    "We''re heading back, everyone," I said, adjusting the camera. "But it looks like this isn''t the end. If what they said is true, then there''s more out there. And we''re going to find it."


    Kijin moved forward, taking the lead as we exited the chamber. Raijuu stayed close, his gaze watchful, his body relaxed but ready. The corridor stretched before us, silent and still, yet filled with a sense of purpose that hadn''t been there before.


    As we walked, the familiar walls seemed to shift, the weight of the Forbidden Floors lingering like an echo that would never fade. The amulet and crystal pulsed with each step, as if anticipating what lay beyond the dungeon''s depths. And for the first time, I felt a pull toward something outside, a story that extended past the darkened corridors and into a world waiting to be explored.

 Chapter 142: A World Beyond the Dungeon

    The closer we got to the surface, the more the tension in the air seemed to shift. The oppressive silence of the Forbidden Floors was gone, replaced by the familiar, almost mundane sounds of the dungeon''s upper levels. The soft hum of the amulet and crystal at my chest was a constant reminder of the legacy I now carried, their faint pulses guiding me forward like a heartbeat synced with my own.Kijin and Raijuu moved ahead with purpose, their senses sharp but not tense. They seemed to sense, as I did, that the journey wasn''t truly over. The path out of the dungeon felt longer than usual, each step filled with the weight of the message I''d received. The thought that the Forgotten''s legacy extended beyond these walls was both daunting and exhilarating.


    The chat was alive with speculation.


    : Do you think the crystal is leading you to another dungeon?


    : The Forgotten''s legacy feels bigger than any one place. This could go worldwide.


    : Tsukasa, do you think the world is even ready to uncover this story?


    The weight of that last question lingered in my mind. The discovery of the Forbidden Floors and the Forgotten''s story wasn''t just another dungeon stream¡ªit was something that could rewrite how we understood dungeons, history, and maybe even humanity itself. But for now, there were more immediate concerns: deciphering the crystal''s guidance and preparing for whatever came next.


    "We''ll figure it out, chat," I said, my voice steady despite the turmoil in my thoughts. "One step at a time. First, we get out of here and take a closer look at what the crystal is trying to tell us."


    As we rounded a corner, the faint glow of the dungeon''s entrance came into view, the natural light filtering in from outside casting long shadows across the stone walls. For a moment, the sight was jarring¡ªit had been hours, maybe days, since I''d seen natural light, and it felt like stepping into another world.


    Kijin paused at the threshold, his ears flicking as he scanned the open space ahead. Raijuu stood beside him, his tail swishing in short, sharp motions. I could feel their anticipation, their readiness for whatever lay ahead.


    The chat buzzed with excitement.


    : You''re almost out! I can''t believe this journey is finally coming full circle.


    : That light is a whole mood after all those hours in the depths.


    : What''s the first thing you''re going to do when you''re back outside?


    I stepped forward, crossing the threshold into the open air. The sunlight hit my face, warm and bright, and I blinked against the sudden brightness, the cool breeze carrying with it the familiar sounds of the forest that surrounded the dungeon''s entrance. The world outside felt oddly surreal after the weight of the Forbidden Floors, as if it didn''t quite fit with everything I''d just experienced.


    I turned the camera toward the entrance, letting the chat see the towering stone archway that marked the dungeon''s mouth. It looked almost unassuming now, a simple opening in the ground that gave no hint of the secrets hidden within.


    "Chat," I said, adjusting the focus, "we''re out. But this¡­ this is just the beginning. The Forbidden Floors were one chapter, but the crystal is pointing us to something bigger."


    The chat erupted with enthusiasm.


    : You did it, Tsukasa! This was the best stream I''ve ever seen.


    : The Forbidden Floors are just the start¡ªI can feel it.


    : We''re ready for the next adventure. Let''s see where this leads.


    Kijin and Raijuu stayed close as we moved away from the dungeon''s entrance, heading toward a clearing where I could take a moment to regroup. The amulet and crystal pulsed faintly, their energy calm but insistent, as if urging me to take the next step.


    I found a spot near a fallen log, setting up the camera to capture the crystal''s glow in full. Holding it in my hands, I examined the faint patterns that seemed to shift across its surface. The runes, once incomprehensible, now felt like a language I was just beginning to understand.


    "Chat, let''s take a closer look," I said, angling the camera. "The figure said the crystal would guide us to their lands. Maybe there''s a clue hidden in the runes."


    The chat offered their theories and observations.


    : Those patterns are moving. It''s almost like they''re alive.


    : What if the crystal is a map? It might show the way to their homeland.


    : Tsukasa, try focusing your energy on it. Maybe it''ll respond.


    Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and focused on the crystal, letting its faint hum resonate through me. The warmth of the amulet spread across my chest, syncing with the crystal''s energy. Slowly, the runes on its surface began to shift, forming clearer shapes¡ªlines and curves that started to resemble a map.


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    "Chat, you were right," I said, excitement creeping into my voice. "It''s a map. The runes are forming coordinates¡­ or something like that."


    The chat was electric with excitement.


    : A map?! This just got even bigger!


    : What if it''s leading you to another hidden city? This could change everything.


    : This feels like a whole new chapter is about to unfold.


    As the runes settled into place, a faint glow traced the outline of a landmass¡ªan island, isolated and distant, surrounded by symbols that seemed to mark specific locations. At its center was a larger symbol, its glow pulsing like a heartbeat, as if calling out.


    "This island¡­" I murmured, studying the map. "It doesn''t look familiar. But the crystal is pointing to its center. That''s where we need to go."


    The chat was quick to react.


    : An island? That''s huge! Do you think it''s connected to other dungeons?


    : This is bigger than just the Forbidden Floors. The Forgotten''s story might span the whole world.


    : Tsukasa, you''re holding history in your hands. This is legendary.


    I saved an image of the map, ensuring I had a record of the runes'' formation. Whatever this island was, it held the next piece of the Forgotten''s legacy, a continuation of their story that extended far beyond the dungeon we''d just left.


    Kijin and Raijuu moved closer, their gazes fixed on the glowing crystal as if sensing its importance. The forest around us was calm, the sunlight filtering through the trees casting dappled shadows across the ground. But even in the peace of the moment, I could feel the weight of what lay ahead.


    Standing, I adjusted the camera and took a deep breath. "Chat, this is where we''re headed next. An island tied to the Forgotten''s past, a place that holds their secrets. It''s not just about uncovering a story anymore. It''s about understanding how their legacy connects to the world we know."


    The chat was a flurry of excitement, their messages filled with anticipation for the next stage of the journey.


    : Let''s go! This is going to be your biggest adventure yet. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : The Forgotten''s story isn''t just history¡ªit''s alive, and you''re carrying it forward.


    : We''re with you, Tsukasa. Whatever happens next, we''re ready.


    I glanced down at the crystal, its glow steady and insistent, and felt a spark of determination. The island was calling, its mysteries waiting to be uncovered. With Kijin and Raijuu by my side, I knew we were ready to take the next step.


    We left the clearing, the forest stretching out before us, the path ahead filled with questions waiting to be answered. The crystal pulsed softly in my hand, its energy a quiet reminder of the story we''d been entrusted to tell.

 Chapter 143: The Island Beckons

    The journey from the dungeon''s clearing back to the outskirts of town was uneventful, yet my mind was far from calm. The map etched into the crystal replayed in my thoughts, the island''s contours and glowing symbols etched as clearly in my mind as they had been on its surface. Kijin padded ahead silently, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings, while Raijuu trotted beside me, his tail flicking with faint arcs of electricity.The chat kept me grounded, their buzzing commentary pulling me out of my thoughts every now and then.


    : Tsukasa, where even is that island? Do you have any idea?


    : The Forbidden Floors are one thing, but now you''re heading into the unknown.


    : Please tell me you''re going to get a boat and not, like, swim there.


    I gave the camera a small smile. "Don''t worry, chat. No swimming. But you''re right¡ªwe need to figure out where this place is. The crystal only gave us a shape, not a location."


    The crystal''s faint hum was still present, a steady rhythm that seemed to sync with my heartbeat. I could feel its energy, guiding and steady, like a compass pointing toward the unknown. Whatever this island was, it wasn''t on any map I''d seen, but I was certain it existed. The Forgotten''s guidance was deliberate, their story far from finished.


    We arrived back at the small town that bordered the dungeon entrance¡ªa place that served as a hub for adventurers and explorers alike. The familiar noise of merchants, equipment vendors, and tavern chatter filled the air, a stark contrast to the eerie silence of the Forbidden Floors. The sight of other people brought a strange sense of normalcy, yet it felt almost foreign after the solitude of the journey below.


    I made my way to a quiet corner of the adventurers'' guild, a place where maps of the surrounding regions were displayed for planning expeditions. The maps were detailed, showing everything from major cities to the smaller uncharted territories on the edges of civilization. Yet, as I scanned the charts, I couldn''t find anything resembling the island the crystal had shown me.


    The chat chimed in with suggestions.


    : Maybe it''s in uncharted waters? Someplace nobody''s explored yet?


    : Tsukasa, are there any adventurer logs about far-off islands? Someone might''ve seen it.


    : Could the crystal itself help pinpoint the location? Maybe it''s like a homing beacon.


    I nodded, the idea sparking something in me. "That''s a good point, chat. The crystal''s been guiding us this far. Maybe it can do more than just show the map."


    I stepped back from the charts, holding the crystal up in my hand. Its glow was faint, but the moment I focused on it, the energy pulsed stronger. Closing my eyes, I tried to tune into the rhythm, letting its faint hum guide my thoughts. A warmth spread through my chest, and a faint image flickered in my mind¡ªwaves crashing against rocky shores, dense forests rising in the distance, and a starry sky overhead.


    The crystal''s glow flared briefly, then dimmed again, its energy fading back to a steady pulse. I opened my eyes, exhaling slowly as the image lingered in my memory.


    "Chat, I think I just saw it. The island¡­ it''s isolated, surrounded by rough waters, but it''s real." I glanced at the maps again. "We just need to figure out how to match what I saw with the coastline."


    The chat lit up with excitement.


    : That''s amazing! It''s like the crystal is showing you fragments of the Forgotten''s memories.


    : If the island''s that remote, maybe it''s not on modern maps. Your next journey awaits at M-V-L


    : Could it be near one of the uncharted areas? The coastline might match.


    I decided to start asking around the guild, showing a rough sketch of the island''s shape based on the crystal''s vision. Most of the adventurers shook their heads, muttering about how they''d never seen such a place, but a grizzled sailor in the corner perked up at the drawing.


    "That shape¡­" he muttered, his voice rough but curious. "Reminds me of an old tale. The ''Shifting Isle,'' they called it. Supposedly somewhere off the western seas, beyond the trade routes. No one''s ever come back from trying to find it."


    I leaned in, intrigued. "The Shifting Isle? Why is it called that?"


    The sailor chuckled darkly. "Because it ain''t always there. The ocean swallows it up, or the mists hide it, or maybe it''s just a myth. But if you''re looking for strange places, that''s your best bet."


    The chat was buzzing with theories.


    : The Shifting Isle? That sounds like something the Forgotten would be tied to.


    : Maybe the island isn''t fixed. What if it moves, like a living dungeon?


    : Tsukasa, this feels like it''s leading to something huge. You have to check it out.


    I thanked the sailor, his cryptic clues adding another layer to the mystery. If the Shifting Isle truly existed, it would be a challenge to find, let alone reach. But with the crystal as my guide and the Forgotten''s legacy driving me forward, I couldn''t ignore the pull of this new adventure.


    The next step was preparing for the journey. I returned to the inn where I''d left most of my gear, taking stock of what I had and what I would need. Kijin and Raijuu rested near the window, their postures relaxed but their eyes watchful. I could tell they were ready for whatever came next, their loyalty unwavering.


    "Chat," I said, turning the camera toward my supplies, "this isn''t just another dungeon dive. We''re heading into uncharted territory. It''s going to take more than the usual gear to make it out there."


    The chat was quick with suggestions.


    : You''ll need a sturdy boat, for starters. No way you''re swimming to a shifting island.


    : Stock up on supplies. Who knows what''s on that island¡ªor how long you''ll be there.


    : Don''t forget to bring extra food for Kijin and Raijuu! They earned it.


    I made a mental checklist, jotting down notes as I planned the expedition. The Shifting Isle, if it existed, would require navigation tools, survival gear, and more than a little luck. But something about the journey felt right, as though the Forgotten themselves were urging me forward. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The crystal''s faint hum pulsed again, and I glanced at it, the glow steady and calm. It was as if it was waiting, guiding, trusting me to take the next step.


    By the time I finished organizing my supplies, the sun was setting, casting a warm orange glow over the town. I stood at the edge of the dock, the cool breeze carrying the scent of saltwater and adventure. In the distance, the ocean stretched endlessly, its surface glittering in the fading light.


    Kijin and Raijuu stood beside me, their eyes fixed on the horizon. The chat was quieter now, their messages filled with a mix of excitement and reverence.


    : This is it. The next step in the Forgotten''s story.


    : Tsukasa, you''re about to venture into something legendary.


    : Whatever happens, we''re here with you. Let''s find the Shifting Isle.


    I glanced at the crystal one last time, its glow pulsing in sync with the rhythm of the waves. This journey wasn''t just about uncovering a story¡ªit was about understanding a legacy that had been hidden for centuries, waiting for someone to carry it forward

 Chapter 144: Setting Sail for the Unknown

    As the preparations for the journey to the elusive Shifting Isle wrapped up, the reality of what lay ahead began to sink in. Each item I packed was chosen for resilience and versatility, necessary for the unpredictable conditions of a possibly mythic destination. Kijin, always alert, seemed to understand the significance of our preparations, watching over our equipment with a protective eye, while Raijuu occasionally inspected items with a curious sniff.The chat, ever a source of mixed sentiments, kept my spirits in check with their usual blend of humor and skepticism.


    : Hope you packed some ghost repellent, Tsukasa. You might run into some Forgotten spirits!


    : Are we betting on whether this island will actually be there? I''ve got $20 on it being just a fog bank. sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Just don''t pull a Titanic on us. Make sure the captain isn''t all talk.


    With the additional safety gear like a satellite phone, and extra provisions including waterproof maps and ample food supplies, I felt as prepared as one could be. Captain Harrow, an old sailor with a face as weathered as the decks he trod, agreed to guide us. His familiarity with tales of the Shifting Isle, a place as shrouded in mystery as the Forgotten themselves, was both a boon and a warning.


    "The Shifting Isle ain''t no ordinary place," Captain Harrow warned as he examined my map, his finger tracing the vague outlines where I believed the island would be. "It appears and disappears like a ghost on the sea. I''ll take you there, but getting ashore, that''s on you."


    The chat was quick to chime in with their thoughts on Captain Harrow.


    : That captain looks like he knows his way around a sea tale or two. Bet he''s seen some weird stuff!


    : If he''s scared of this island, you know it''s bad news. Or he''s just seen too many movies.


    : Better listen to the man, Tsukasa. No heroics, especially with Kijin and Raijuu on board.


    Armed with this knowledge and the community''s input, we charted a course that would hopefully intersect with the mythical location. Clear weather and favorable winds marked our departure day, adding a rare optimism to the expedition. The journey by sea would take several days, traveling into less chartered waters.


    The morning we set sail, I broadcasted live, showing the bustling activity at the port, our modest but sturdy vessel, and the open sea that awaited us. The sunlight danced on the waves, promising a calm start to what could be the most extraordinary journey yet.


    : This is it, everyone! We''re off to find a ghost island. What could go wrong?


    : Make sure someone keeps an eye on the captain. He might be a ghost too!


    : Bring me back a mermaid, Tsukasa! Or at least some good stories.


    As the boat pulled away from the dock, familiar landmarks faded into the background, replaced by the expansive, seemingly endless sea. The pulse of the crystal around my neck beat in time with the rhythm of the waves, a constant reminder of the Forgotten and their hidden legacies.


    Captain Harrow navigated with a seasoned hand, steering us into deeper waters where the blue of the sea met the sky at the horizon. Kijin and Raijuu appeared at ease, their calm a stark contrast to the churning anticipation I felt inside.


    The chat''s messages scrolled on my screen, a lifeline back to the familiar as we sailed into the unknown.


    : Watching this makes me want to go on an adventure. Or just makes me seasick.


    : There''s something poetic about sailing off to find a lost island. Just don''t forget to come back.


    : Keep that crystal close, Tsukas. It''s probably the key to everything.


    As the coastline vanished behind us, leaving only open water ahead, the sense of isolation grew. But it was an isolation filled with purpose. The Forgotten''s map, etched into the crystal, was more than a guide; it was a testament to a hidden history waiting to be revealed, one that could change our understanding of the past.


    I turned the camera to capture a final shot of the disappearing land, then back to face the open sea.


    "We''re on our way," I said, my voice steady despite the swell of emotions. "To the Shifting Isle, to uncover the Forgotten''s secrets. Whatever we find, it''s a journey worth taking."


    With that, we sailed onward, the horizon wide and open, the mysteries of the Shifting Isle calling us forth. This journey wasn''t just a quest for answers; it was an expedition to connect the present with the forgotten past, a voyage that might well reshape the stories we thought we knew.


    The morning of our departure was marked by a flurry of activity at the bustling port. The salty air was filled with the cries of seagulls and the rumble of boats as adventurers, traders, and fishermen prepared for their respective journeys. The sea, a vibrant canvas of blues and greens, lapped gently at the docks, as if beckoning us to unveil its secrets.


    Captain Harrow, a seasoned sailor whose face bore the etchings of countless storms and sunlit days, supervised the loading of the last of our supplies. Each crate and barrel secured onto our modest vessel felt like a promise to the Forgotten¡ªto carry their legacy across the waters to a place that may or may not exist on any modern map.


    "Remember, lad," Captain Harrow said, his voice gruff but not unkind, "the sea is a mistress who does not forgive easily. Keep your wits about you."


    Kijin and Raijuu, ever the faithful companions, inspected every inch of the deck. Kijin''s ears twitched with every new scent and sound, while Raijuu seemed particularly interested in the ropes and knots that the crew handled with practiced ease.


    The chat, always ready with a quip or a word of caution, kept my spirits high.


    : Just don''t let Captain Harrow steer you into the Bermuda Triangle or something!


    : Can Kijin and Raijuu swim? Just in case you guys decide to find Atlantis instead!


    : Seriously, though, take care of yourself and the boys. This isn''t your usual dungeon crawl.


    As the last of the supplies were stowed away, and the crew made final checks on the vessel, I took a moment to stream a walk-through of our boat. The deck was compact but efficiently arranged, with access to navigation tools, emergency gear, and, crucially, a sturdy cabin that would provide some comfort during the unpredictable voyage.


    "Here''s where we''ll be spending the next few days, chat," I explained as the camera panned over the vessel. "It''s no luxury liner, but she''s got character and, more importantly, a seasoned captain and crew."


    : She looks sturdy enough! And look at that view¡ªworth any sea sickness, IMO.


    : This is going to be epic, Tsukas. Following this every step of the way!


    : Make sure to teach Raijuu some pirate speak, haha!


    Laughter echoed on the deck as the crew joined in with the chat''s banter, their earlier tension easing slightly with the camaraderie.


    Finally, with everything and everyone aboard, Captain Harrow gave the signal, and the lines were cast off. The engine hummed to life, and our vessel began to ease away from the dock, the town slowly receding into the background as we headed into the open sea.


    The transition from the calm harbor to the open sea was gradual. The waves grew taller, and the wind picked up, filling the sails and tugging at my hair. The sun climbed higher, casting a dazzling glare over the water that made the horizon shimmer.


    As the shoreline vanished, a profound sense of isolation settled over me. Here, away from the safety and familiarity of land, the reality of our quest became palpable. We were sailing toward a destination that might not welcome us, guided only by a crystal that pulsed with the essence of a civilization long forgotten.


    : It''s like you''re sailing off the edge of the map, Tsukasa. Here there be monsters!


    : No turning back now! What''s the first thing you''re going to do when you see the island?


    : Keep an eye on that crystal. It''s not just a guide; it''s your connection to the Forgotten.


    The crystal, secured around my neck, seemed to resonate with the deeper waters, its glow pulsing softly in rhythm with the waves. It felt alive, almost aware of its proximity to its ancient homeland. I held it occasionally, comforted by its warmth and the secrets it held.


    Captain Harrow navigated with an unerring sense of direction, consulting old nautical maps and occasionally the crystal''s glow, which seemed to act as a beacon, pulling us toward the mysterious Shifting Isle.


    The days passed with a monotonous blend of waves, wind, and wide-open sky. Each morning brought with it a brief hope of sighting land, but the horizon remained stubbornly empty. The routine of life at sea set in¡ªmeals in the small galley, checks on the equipment, nightly checks of the stars for navigation.


    Kijin and Raijuu adapted to the life on board, finding their sea legs faster than I did. Raijuu seemed particularly enamored with the gulls that followed our boat, chirping at them from the safety of the deck.


    The chat kept me company, their messages a lifeline back to the world I had left behind.


    : Are we there yet? Feels like you''ve been at sea forever!


    : How are the boys handling the voyage? Better than the humans, I bet.


    : This is the calm before the storm, Tsukasa. When you find the island, it''s going to be a storm of a different kind.


    On the seventh day, as the sun rose, a thick fog settled over the ocean, enveloping our boat in a ghostly mist. Visibility dropped, and the world shrank to the immediate vicinity around us. The air grew colder, and the crystal''s pulse quickened, as if excited or perhaps anxious about what lay hidden in the fog.


    Captain Harrow slowed the boat, his eyes scanning the opaque whiteness that surrounded us. "This might be it," he murmured, his voice low. "The Shifting Isle likes to hide in such mists."


    The chat exploded with anticipation.


    : This is it, guys! The island has to be close!


    : Spooky fog is always a good sign in stories, right? Right??


    : You''re about to make history, Tsukasa. This is what adventure looks like.


    As I stood at the bow, the crystal glowing against the fog, a shadow loomed ahead. Slowly, a rocky shore emerged from the mist, its cliffs jagged and unwelcoming. But it was land¡ªundeniable and solid.


    "We''ve found it," I whispered, almost in disbelief, as the shape of the island grew clearer. "The Shifting Isle."


    Cheers erupted from the chat and the crew alike, their excitement piercing the solemnity of our approach.


    : Land ho! Can''t believe you actually found it!


    : What''s waiting on that island, I wonder? Treasure? Secrets? Forgotten history for sure!


    : Careful, Tsukas. This is where the real adventure begins.


    As the island welcomed us with its rugged shores, I knew that whatever we discovered here would redefine the Forgotten''s story and our understanding of history.

 Chapter 145: Voyage to the Shifting Isle

    The morning of our departure was ripe with the salty tang of adventure as the bustling port teemed with activity. Sailors shouted commands, ropes thudded against wooden docks, and seagulls cried overhead, creating a symphony of maritime life. Amid this chaos, theWanderer


    , our sturdy vessel, bobbed gently at her berth, ready to carry us into the unknown.


    Kijin, with her characteristic mix of zest and mischief, inspected every inch of the ship. Her comments about the ropes and sails, laced with her usual playful innuendos, drew chuckles and occasional shakes of the head from the seasoned crew. Despite her antics, her presence added a vibrant energy that seemed to lighten the weight of the impending journey.


    The chat, never far behind, was actively engaged, offering last-minute advice and their typical jests.


    : Watch Kijin doesn''t tie the crew up in knots with that rope!


    : Hope you guys stocked up on sea sickness potions, especially with Kijin stirring up a storm!


    : This is it, Tsukasa! Man, feels like we''re all setting sail with you. Can''t wait to see that island appear!


    With the final supplies loaded and the crew ready, Captain Harrow, a veteran of the seas whose face was etched with lines of countless voyages, called everyone to order. His gruff voice carried authority and reassurance as he outlined the route based on the coordinates provided by the crystal''s pulsing energy.


    "Our course is set for the edges of the charted waters," Captain Harrow announced, pointing to a map that showed our speculative path. "The Shifting Isle isn''t marked on any modern map, but the legends and this young man''s crystal suggest we''re in for quite the journey."


    The ship set sail under a clear blue sky, with the wind favorable and the seas calm. As the coastline shrank behind us, I felt a stirring of excitement mixed with a dash of apprehension¡ªthe open sea was both a beautiful and formidable expanse.


    Kijin took to the bow, her eyes scanning the horizon. Despite her usual flippancy, there was a seriousness to her stance¡ªa recognition of the dangers we might face. Raijuu, ever her shadow, paced restlessly, his senses attuned to the new environment.


    The chat buzzed with excitement and a touch of anxiety:


    : That horizon looks endless. Kind of scary how vast the ocean is.


    : Kijin at the bow feels like something out of a movie. Just need some epic music now!


    : Stay sharp, everyone. Who knows what kind of creatures you''ll find, especially near a place called the Shifting Isle.


    As days passed, the initial excitement gave way to the routine of sea life. The endless blue of the sky met the darker blue of the sea at a distant, hazy line. Days rolled into nights marked by starry skies and the bioluminescent glow of marine life, painting streaks of light beneath the waves.


    Captain Harrow navigated with a steady hand, often consulting the pulsing crystal, which seemed to glow brighter as we ventured further into uncharted waters. I spent long hours learning from him, understanding the subtle signs of the sea and sky that guided seasoned sailors.


    : Is it just me, or does the crystal seem to be getting more excited the closer you get?


    : Learning to sail, fighting monsters, finding lost islands¡ªwhat can''t Tsukasa do?


    : Keep an eye on that compass and the stars, Captain! Old-school navigation for the win!


    On the fourth night, a dense fog rolled in, swallowing the stars and dampening the sounds of the sea. Visibility dropped to mere meters, and even the wind seemed to hold its breath. The temperature dropped, and a palpable tension settled over the ship.


    "I don''t like this," Captain Harrow muttered, peering into the gloom. "This fog is unnatural. Stay alert."


    Kijin and Raijuu were at my side instantly, their senses heightened. The crystal around my neck throbbed with a steady pulse, as if it recognized the fog as a curtain before the final act.


    : This fog is super creepy. Feels like something out of a ghost story.


    : Are we sure this island isn''t haunted? Because this is how you get haunted islands.


    : Whatever''s waiting in that fog, you''ve got this, Tsukasa. We''re all here with you, in spirit if not in body!


    As the fog thickened, a shadow loomed ahead. Slowly, the outline of an island emerged from the mist, its cliffs jagged and unwelcoming, yet unmistakably solid. The Shifting Isle was real, and it lay before us, shrouded in mystery and mist.


    Cheers and gasps echoed through the chat as the island materialized:


    : HOLY¡ªYou actually found it! THE ISLAND IS REAL!


    : That reveal was perfect! Like something straight out of a movie!


    : What''s the bet this island has some crazy secret? Treasure, monsters, or maybe the key to the Forgotten''s past? S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Captain Harrow steered us closer, his experienced hands guiding the ship deftly through the perilous waters. The crew was tense, ready for any danger that might arise from the mysterious island.


    As we approached the shore, the crystal''s glow intensified, casting eerie shadows on the deck. The island''s presence was overwhelming¡ªa palpable sense of history and secrets long buried. We were on the brink of uncovering truths that had been lost to the sea of time.


    : Landing on the Shifting Isle... This is what adventure looks like.


    : Be careful, everyone. Who knows what you''ll find onshore.


    : This is history in the making. Tsukasa, you''re about to rewrite the books.


    With the island now firmly in sight, preparations began for landing. The possibilities of what lay ahead were as vast as the ocean behind us. We were no longer just explorers; we were pioneers on the edge of a new discovery.


    As I ended the stream for the day, promising to return with updates once we made landfall, I couldn''t help but feel a mix of dread and excitement. The Shifting Isle awaited, and with it, the next chapter in our extraordinary journey.


    "Let''s uncover the secrets of the Shifting Isle," I said to the crew, the chat''s enthusiastic support ringing in my ears as we prepared to dock. The adventure was far from over; in many ways, it was just beginning.

 Chapter 146: Depths of Discovery

    The early morning light filtered through the dense canopy, casting a patterned glow across the clearing. The ancient altar at the camp''s center continued to emit a soft radiance, a constant reminder of the evening''s revelations. The carved symbols, which we had decoded during the night, seemed to point out paths leading deeper into the island, hinting at a network of significant locations sprawled across its hidden expanse.Kijin, whose affinity for decoding arcane signs had proved invaluable, detailed her findings over a quick breakfast. "These aren''t mere decorations; they''re directive markers, almost like signposts leading to other important sites on the island," she explained, her voice carrying a mix of excitement and seriousness.


    Raijuu, always sensitive to the subtleties of our surroundings, paced nearby, his demeanor indicating a mix of alertness and unease¡ªa reminder that the island''s mysteries were closely guarded.


    The chat was alive with speculation and advice:


    : This is turning into a real-life adventure game! What''s the next clue?


    : Could you show us the symbols? Maybe we can help figure out more.


    : Remember, every step into the unknown is a risk. Stay sharp, team.


    Acknowledging their input, I decided to trace the path indicated by the most prominent symbol on the altar. "We''re heading northeast, deeper into the forest," I announced, shouldering my pack and preparing for the day''s trek.


    Captain Harrow and the crew, tasked with maintaining the camp, ensured our temporary base was secure. With preparations complete, Kijin led the way, her keen eyes scouting ahead, while Raijuu, ever vigilant, covered our flank.


    The forest changed as we ventured deeper; ancient trees towered overhead, their massive trunks blanketed in thick moss and lichen, a testament to the island''s age. The air grew cooler under the dense canopy, the filtered sunlight barely reaching the forest floor, enveloping us in a perpetual twilight.


    : Those trees are like something out of a fairytale. How old do you think they are?


    : Feels like you''ve stepped into a lost world. Be careful, anything could be hiding in there.


    : That moss could cover anything. Watch where you step!


    After a few hours of hiking, we reached a secluded valley enclosed by high rock faces. At its heart was a clear spring, bubbling up from the earth, its waters catching the light with an unnatural shimmer. Surrounding the spring were more symbols, echoing those at the altar but with slight variations that suggested different uses or meanings.


    "It seems we''ve found one of the waypoints the altar was pointing to," I noted, examining the intricate carvings around the spring. Kijin agreed, her excitement palpable as she traced her fingers over the cool stone.


    : That spring looks magical. Can you feel any power coming from it?


    : What if the water is enchanted? Tsukasa, try touching it!


    I dipped my hands into the spring, feeling an immediate rush of energy. The crystal around my neck reacted, glowing brighter as it came into contact with the water. "There''s a strong connection here. This spring is tied to the same network of energy that powers the altar," I observed.


    Tenko, always observant, added, "The water is infused with mana. It''s not just pure; it''s potent, possibly used to enhance magical abilities or even rejuvenate the local flora and fauna."


    We collected samples of the water, planning to analyze its properties back at camp. Raijuu, seeming reassured by our calm, drank from the spring, his body relaxing as he quenched his thirst.


    : Raijuu''s got the right idea. If it''s good for him, it must be safe.


    : I love how everything on this island is connected through these magical networks!


    With new clues in hand and the day still young, we decided to push on to the next waypoint. The symbols had mapped out a route that suggested a circular path through the island''s landmarks.


    "We''ll continue to follow the trail marked by the symbols. There''s more to uncover, and each discovery seems to be a piece of a larger puzzle," I concluded, rallying the group for the journey ahead.


    Resuming our exploration, we ventured deeper into the mysteries of the Shifting Isle, each step uncovering layers of history entwined with the natural beauty of the untouched wilderness.


    The early rays of dawn pierced through the dense canopy, illuminating the clearing where our camp lay nestled against the backdrop of ancient woods. The previous night''s discovery at the altar had shifted the energy of our expedition from cautious exploration to fervent quest. The symbols, intricately carved into the ancient stone, now translated into a map that beckoned us deeper into the heart of the Shifting Isle.


    Kijin was already up, her keen eyes scanning the symbols once more, her mind piecing together the potential routes and their historical significance. Over a breakfast of campfire-cooked meals, she shared her insights, her voice infused with a blend of excitement and resolve. "These markers aren''t arbitrary; they form a network that spans the entire island, possibly linking other relics or sites of power."


    Raijuu, sensing the shift in our mission, patrolled the perimeter of the camp, his instincts on high alert for any disturbances within the mysterious forest. His presence was reassuring, a reminder of the untamed nature of our surroundings.


    The chat, ever a source of encouragement and curiosity, buzzed with anticipation:


    : This island is like a giant puzzle waiting for you to put the pieces together!


    : Can you show us the map again? Maybe we can help spot something you missed. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Stay safe out there¡ªthis feels like you''re on the brink of a major discovery!


    With their encouragement ringing in our ears, I led our team to the northeast, following the most pronounced trail indicated by the altar. Our gear packed and spirits high, we ventured deeper into the forest, the air growing cooler and the path gradually enveloping us within its ancient embrace.


    The forest''s transition was palpable; the trees grew taller, their trunks wider and covered in thick moss that dampened our footsteps. The canopy overhead wove a dense tapestry of leaves, filtering the sunlight into mere fragments that dappled the forest floor.


    : Those trees must have stood here for centuries. Imagine the secrets they could tell.


    : It''s like walking into a natural cathedral. There''s a sacred feel to it.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. Such beauty can be deceptive, especially in uncharted territories.


    After several hours of hiking through this primeval landscape, we reached a secluded valley cradled by steep rock faces. At its center, a clear spring bubbled up from the earth, its waters crystal clear and shimmering under the occasional beam of light that penetrated the dense canopy. Surrounding the spring were additional symbols, each carved into the rocky basin, mirroring those found at the altar but with subtle differences that suggested unique significance.


    "It appears we''ve discovered one of the waypoints marked by the altar," I announced, examining the carvings with a mix of awe and curiosity. Kijin, equally fascinated, traced the symbols with her fingers, her magical sensitivity allowing her to feel the energy pulsating from the stone.


    : That spring looks like something out of a fantasy book. Does it have any special properties?


    : The carvings are so intricate. There must be a reason this spot was marked.


    I reached out to touch the water, feeling a surge of energy as my fingers made contact. The crystal around my neck responded, glowing with increased intensity, its light reflecting off the water and illuminating the carvings in a ghostly dance of shadows and light.


    "The spring is directly connected to the energy network we''re tracing. It''s not just water; it''s a conduit of power," I shared, my voice filled with excitement. Tenko, examining the water''s properties, nodded in agreement, "The mana concentration here is extraordinary. It could enhance magical abilities or serve as a regenerative source for the island''s ecosystem."


    Collecting samples of the water for further analysis seemed prudent. Raijuu, ever the practical member of our team, took a cautious sip, then relaxed, seemingly approving of the water''s purity.


    : Looks like Raijuu has given his seal of approval!


    : I''m amazed at how everything on this island is interconnected. It''s like a giant puzzle.


    With the sun climbing higher and the day warming, we prepared to continue our exploration. The next waypoint, according to the map we''d pieced together from the altar''s clues, lay further to the east, deeper into the heart of the island.


    "We''ll follow the path laid out by these markers. There''s more to uncover, and each step we take unravels more of this island''s secrets," I declared, rallying the team as we packed up our gear.


    As we resumed our trek, the forest seemed to watch, its ancient trees whispering secrets in the wind. The path wound its way through thick underbrush and over streams lined with smooth stones, each turn and ford a reminder of the island''s untouched beauty and mysterious past.


    : This is getting more intriguing by the minute. What do you think you''ll find next?


    : It feels like you''re walking through a living museum of natural history. Keep the updates coming!


    : Be on the lookout for anything unusual. You never know what''s hidden in such an ancient place.


    After collecting water samples and documenting the waypoint, we prepared to move toward the next marker indicated by the altar''s map. The symbols suggested another site of significance deeper within the forest, likely holding more clues about the Shifting Isle''s history. With gear secured and the spring behind us, we began the trek east, pushing further into the dense wilderness.

 Chapter 147: The Second Waypoint

    The trek eastward from the spring led us deeper into the Shifting Isle''s untamed wilderness. The forest, dense and imposing, seemed to grow darker with every step, the canopy above tightening as ancient trees loomed taller. Despite the eeriness, the path carved out by the symbols from the altar remained visible, though faint, guiding us with its mysterious precision.Kijin took the lead as usual, her sharp senses attuned to the subtleties of the environment. Raijuu prowled at our side, his eyes constantly scanning for movement, his ears flicking at every sound. The faint hum of the crystal around my neck was a steady reminder that we were on the right path.


    "Keep your eyes open," I said, breaking the silence. "The markers have been consistent so far, but that doesn''t mean we''re out of danger."


    Kijin glanced over her shoulder, grinning. "Relax, Tsukasa. If something pops out, I''ll just charm it into submission."


    "Or irritate it into attacking us," I muttered, earning a quiet snicker from Tenko. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The chat kept pace with their usual mix of humor and helpfulness:


    : If Kijin''s at the front, you''ll probably find trouble sooner rather than later.


    : Does the crystal''s glow get stronger the closer you get? It seems reactive.


    : Keep Raijuu fed! If anything dangerous shows up, he''ll handle it.


    The trek wasn''t without its challenges. Thick roots snaked across the ground, forming natural obstacles that threatened to trip the unwary. Occasionally, strange sounds echoed through the forest¡ªdistant calls or the rustle of unseen creatures moving through the underbrush. It wasn''t enough to alarm us, but it kept everyone on edge.


    After several hours, the dense forest gave way to a rocky incline. The path turned steep, forcing us to climb carefully over uneven terrain. At the top of the incline, we found a plateau, where the forest parted to reveal another ancient structure¡ªa monolithic stone obelisk, its surface etched with the same symbols we''d encountered before.


    The obelisk towered above us, its presence commanding. It was weathered by time, yet its carvings remained sharp, as though protected by some unseen force. Around its base, smaller stones were arranged in a circular pattern, their surfaces covered in faintly glowing glyphs.


    "We''ve found it," I said, approaching the structure cautiously. The crystal''s pulse grew stronger with every step, its light intensifying in response to the obelisk''s energy.


    The chat''s excitement was palpable:


    : That obelisk looks ancient! What does it do?


    : It''s glowing¡ªthis has to be connected to the first waypoint.


    : Be careful touching it. What if it''s a trap or activates something dangerous?


    Kijin circled the obelisk, her fingers brushing lightly against the carvings. "This is incredible. The energy here is different from the spring¡ªmore intense, almost like it''s concentrated."


    Raijuu sniffed the air, his body tense but not aggressive. He seemed wary, as though sensing a latent power within the structure.


    I held the crystal close to the obelisk, watching as the light from both began to sync. Suddenly, the obelisk responded with a low hum, and the glyphs at its base flared brightly, illuminating the plateau.


    "What''s happening?" Tenko asked, her voice calm but alert.


    Before I could respond, the light from the obelisk coalesced into a beam that shot upward, piercing the canopy and disappearing into the sky. For a moment, the entire area was bathed in its glow, the glyphs pulsing in rhythmic patterns.


    : WHAT WAS THAT?! Did the obelisk just signal something?


    : This feels like a beacon. What if it''s calling something¡ªor someone?


    : That''s either really good or really bad. Be on guard!


    As the beam faded, the glyphs dimmed, leaving behind an eerie silence. The obelisk returned to its dormant state, but the energy in the air remained charged.


    "That wasn''t random," I said, stepping back from the structure. "It was a signal. The question is, to whom or what?"


    Kijin nodded, her expression unusually serious. "This island has layers we''re only beginning to uncover. Whatever that signal was for, it means the next waypoint is even more important."


    We documented everything¡ªimages of the glyphs, readings from the crystal''s reaction, and the residual energy patterns left by the beam. The obelisk had given us more questions than answers, but it was clear that we were following a trail left intentionally.


    With the plateau mapped and the obelisk''s energy recorded, we prepared to descend toward the next marker. The forest loomed ahead, its shadows deeper than before, as though the island itself was reacting to our progress.


    The forest seemed to tighten its grip on us as we pressed deeper into the Shifting Isle. The trees grew denser, their massive trunks wrapped in thick vines that snaked upward toward the impenetrable canopy. The air was cool and damp, heavy with the scent of moss and earth. Even the light seemed reluctant to enter this part of the island, casting long, distorted shadows across the path ahead.


    Kijin walked at the front, her steps light despite the uneven terrain. Her sharp eyes darted from side to side, scanning for any signs of danger¡ªor opportunity. Raijuu padded silently beside her, his nose low to the ground, sniffing at the faint scents that only he could detect. Tenko brought up the rear, her focus divided between monitoring our surroundings and recording the journey on her camera for posterity¡ªand the chat.


    The chat, ever vocal, filled my wrist-mounted screen with a mix of humor, advice, and questions:


    : That forest is starting to look like something out of a horror movie. Be careful!


    : Kijin seems way too excited about this. Watch her doesn''t start poking at ancient traps.


    : Raijuu''s on high alert. That''s either really good or really bad.


    We''d been trekking for over an hour since leaving the spring, the path indicated by the altar''s symbols leading us into increasingly rugged terrain. The forest floor, once carpeted with soft moss, now gave way to jagged roots and rocky outcroppings that made every step a calculated effort.


    "This path isn''t just old¡ªit''s designed to keep people out," Kijin observed, pausing to examine a cluster of stones arranged unnaturally in the undergrowth. "These are markers, subtle but intentional. Whoever created this trail didn''t want it easily followed."


    "Or they didn''t want it forgotten," I replied, the crystal around my neck pulsing faintly. Its steady rhythm was a reassuring presence, a beacon guiding us toward something larger than ourselves.


    The climb grew steeper, forcing us to slow our pace. Large boulders jutted from the earth, and we had to use our hands to steady ourselves as we ascended the incline. At the top, the forest opened slightly, revealing a plateau dominated by a massive stone obelisk. The structure stood tall and imposing, its weathered surface covered in intricate carvings that matched the symbols from the altar and spring.


    The obelisk''s presence was commanding, exuding an air of purpose and power. Around its base, smaller stones were arranged in a circular pattern, their surfaces etched with faintly glowing glyphs.


    "We''ve reached it," I said, the crystal pulsing more intensely now. The connection between it and the obelisk was undeniable, their energies resonating in a way that made the air around us feel charged.


    The chat reacted instantly:


    : That obelisk is incredible. It looks ancient but still so well-preserved.


    : Is it another waypoint? Or something more important?


    : Whatever it is, be careful. The energy here feels... alive.


    Kijin approached the obelisk with a mix of caution and awe, her fingers tracing the carvings. "This energy... it''s different from the spring. Stronger, more focused. It''s like the obelisk is the heart of something."


    Raijuu prowled the perimeter of the clearing, his body tense, ears swiveling as if picking up sounds too faint for human hearing. His behavior put us all on edge, a silent reminder that we weren''t alone here.


    As I stepped closer to the obelisk, the crystal''s glow intensified, its rhythm syncing with the glyphs carved into the stone. Tentatively, I held the crystal toward the structure. The moment they connected, the obelisk emitted a deep hum that vibrated through the air and into my chest.


    The glyphs flared brightly, their light spreading across the stones at the obelisk''s base. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, a beam of light shot upward from the obelisk, piercing through the dense canopy and illuminating the sky above. For a moment, the entire plateau was bathed in radiant light, the forest around us seeming to retreat from its brilliance.


    The chat exploded with messages:


    : WHAT WAS THAT?! It''s like the obelisk sent a signal!


    : That beam definitely means something. What if it''s calling for help¡ªor warning something?


    : This is beyond anything I expected. You''re making history here, Tsukasa!


    The beam lingered for a few seconds before fading, leaving the obelisk glowing faintly. The clearing fell silent once more, the air heavy with an unspoken tension.


    "That wasn''t random," I said, lowering the crystal. "The obelisk is a transmitter¡ªor a beacon. It''s sending a signal to something¡ªor someone."


    Kijin stepped back from the obelisk, her expression uncharacteristically serious. "Whatever it''s calling, it''s not small. This island is hiding more than just ancient history."


    We documented everything meticulously: images of the glyphs, readings from the crystal, and the lingering energy patterns left by the beam. The obelisk''s role in the island''s network was clear, but its purpose remained a mystery. Was it a call for help? A warning? Or something else entirely?


    "We need to move," I said after a moment, my voice firm. "This obelisk is important, but it''s not the end of the trail. The altar''s map shows more markers, and if they''re anything like this, they''ll bring us closer to understanding what''s really going on here."


    Kijin nodded, her usual levity tempered by the weight of our discovery. Raijuu, still on high alert, took the lead as we began our descent from the plateau. The forest closed in around us once more, the dense canopy swallowing the light and plunging us back into the eerie twilight of the Shifting Isle.


    The silence was oppressive, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant calls of unseen creatures. The obelisk''s signal had changed the atmosphere; the island felt alive now, as if it had noticed our presence.


    The path ahead twisted and turned, leading us deeper into the island''s hidden heart. The next waypoint was waiting, and with it, more pieces of a puzzle that was quickly becoming far more significant than any of us had anticipated.

 Chapter 148: Shadows in the Forest

    Descending from the plateau, the forest swallowed us once more, its oppressive silence thicker than before. Every rustle of leaves, every faint chirp of unseen wildlife, felt magnified. The obelisk''s signal had changed something, not just in the atmosphere but in us. We moved with heightened caution, every step deliberate.Raijuu led the way, his posture tense and his ears flicking toward faint noises in the underbrush. Kijin followed closely, her sharp gaze darting between the gnarled roots and tangled vines that lined the narrow path. She wasn''t speaking, which was unusual. Her quiet focus said more about the gravity of our situation than any sarcastic quip ever could.


    The chat mirrored the tension in the group, their usual banter interspersed with real concern:


    : That signal definitely did something. The forest feels... different.


    : Anyone else notice how quiet Kijin is? That''s not a good sign.


    : Raijuu''s on edge. If even he''s spooked, you guys need to stay sharp.


    Despite the growing unease, we pressed on. The altar''s map had marked another waypoint further to the east, and the faint hum of the crystal was still guiding us in that direction. The path twisted through dense thickets and over uneven terrain, forcing us to move slowly. The deeper we went, the darker it became, as though the forest itself was conspiring to obscure the way forward.


    After an hour of trudging through the increasingly hostile terrain, the path opened into a small clearing. At its center was a stone archway, half-covered in moss and vines, its ancient structure tilted slightly but still standing firm. Carvings adorned the archway, similar to the glyphs on the obelisk but less intricate. The air around it felt heavier, charged with a faint, static energy.


    "This must be the next marker," I said, stepping cautiously toward the archway. The crystal around my neck pulsed faintly, its light syncing with the glyphs as I approached.


    Kijin circled the archway, her fingers brushing against the carvings. "This is definitely part of the same network, but it''s different. Less powerful than the obelisk, but still significant."


    Raijuu sniffed at the base of the structure, growling softly. Tenko, standing at the edge of the clearing, scanned the surroundings with her camera, her sharp eyes missing nothing.


    : That archway looks like a gate. Do you think it''s functional?


    : Raijuu doesn''t like it. Might be a trap¡ªor worse.


    : The energy here is unsettling. Be careful, Tsukasa.


    As I examined the glyphs, the crystal''s pulse grew stronger, and a faint vibration traveled through the ground. Suddenly, the air inside the archway shimmered, like heat waves rising from hot asphalt. A low hum resonated from the structure, growing louder with each passing second.


    Before I could react, the shimmer intensified, and the archway seemed to flicker between solid stone and something else¡ªan inky void that stretched infinitely beyond its boundaries. The sound was deafening now, a deep, resonant thrum that vibrated in my chest.


    "Kijin, back off!" I called, stepping away from the archway just as a gust of wind burst from its center, scattering leaves and debris across the clearing. Raijuu barked sharply, his growls turning into full-blown snarls as the void stabilized.


    A shape emerged from the darkness¡ªa tall, humanoid figure clad in armor that shimmered like liquid metal. Its movements were unnaturally smooth, almost fluid, as though its body was adapting to the environment in real time. Its face, if it could be called that, was featureless, save for two glowing orbs where eyes should have been.


    The chat exploded in a frenzy:


    : WHAT IS THAT?! Did the gate just summon something?


    : That''s not human. Definitely not friendly either. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Tsukasa, get out of there! This thing looks dangerous!


    The figure stepped forward, its glowing eyes fixed on me. It didn''t speak, but its presence radiated hostility. I instinctively reached for the crystal, its light flaring in response to the creature''s proximity. Kijin was already in motion, a glowing barrier forming around her hands as she prepared to intercept the intruder.


    "Raijuu, back up Kijin," I ordered, stepping to the side to give them space. "Tenko, keep watch for anything else."


    The creature moved with unsettling speed, closing the distance between us in seconds. Kijin met its charge head-on, her barrier clashing against its metallic frame with a sound like grinding steel. Sparks flew as they collided, the force of the impact reverberating through the clearing.


    Raijuu circled behind the creature, his movements fluid and precise. With a low growl, he leapt at its back, his claws raking against its armor. The creature staggered but didn''t falter, its form shifting unnaturally as it twisted to face Raijuu.


    The fight was brutal and fast-paced, the clearing lit by flashes of energy as Kijin and Raijuu worked in tandem to keep the creature at bay. It was clear, however, that their attacks weren''t doing much damage. The creature''s body seemed to absorb impacts, its metallic surface rippling like water with each strike.


    The chat was in full-blown panic mode:


    : It''s adapting to your attacks! You need a new strategy!


    : Kijin''s barrier is holding, but for how long?


    : Raijuu''s giving it his all, but this thing isn''t going down easy.


    I gripped the crystal tightly, focusing its energy into a concentrated burst. A beam of light shot from the crystal, striking the creature square in the chest. It staggered, its glowing eyes dimming for a moment, but the effect was temporary. The creature recovered quickly, its form stabilizing as it turned its attention back to me.


    "Fall back!" I called to Kijin and Raijuu, realizing that brute force wasn''t going to work. "We need to regroup."


    Reluctantly, they retreated, keeping the creature at bay long enough for us to retreat into the forest. The archway shimmered again, the void within collapsing in on itself as the creature stepped back through, disappearing as suddenly as it had appeared.


    Breathing heavily, I leaned against a tree, the crystal''s light dimming as the tension eased. Kijin and Raijuu stood guard, their postures still alert, while Tenko scanned the area for any signs of pursuit.


    "We''re not dealing with just ancient relics anymore," I said, catching my breath. "Whatever that thing was, it''s tied to this island¡ªand it''s not going to let us uncover its secrets without a fight."


    We regrouped, gathering our scattered supplies and ensuring no one was injured. The archway stood silent now, its glyphs dim and unresponsive. Whatever it had summoned was gone, for now, but its presence lingered like a shadow over the clearing.


    After taking a moment to document the encounter and adjust our plans, we resumed our journey toward the next waypoint, the forest once again closing in around us.

 Chapter 149: Signs of Resistance

    We continued deeper into the forest, our nerves still frayed from the encounter at the archway. The trees seemed closer now, their trunks looming like silent sentinels as the light dimmed to a muted green. Every rustle of leaves or snap of a branch set us on edge, the memory of the humanoid creature lingering in the back of our minds.Raijuu stayed ahead of us, his movements cautious but precise. His growls had subsided, but his ears remained alert, swiveling at the faintest sound. Kijin walked beside me, uncharacteristically quiet, her focus directed at the path ahead. Even Tenko, usually a source of calm and commentary, kept her camera aimed at the surroundings in case anything else emerged from the shadows.


    The chat was unusually subdued, their messages tinged with concern:


    : That thing back there wasn''t just a guardian. It felt... intelligent.


    : What if the obelisk''s signal woke more of them up? You need to stay ready.


    : Raijuu''s doing his best, but even he seems uneasy. Something''s watching you.


    I checked the crystal, its glow faint but steady. The energy signature from the archway had faded, but the trail it had marked on the altar''s map remained clear. We were still heading toward the next waypoint, though what waited for us there was anyone''s guess.


    "We need to assume that creature wasn''t a one-off," I said, breaking the silence. "The island is reacting to us¡ªprotecting something."


    Tenko nodded, her voice low. "It''s possible the network of obelisks and markers isn''t just dormant. The signals could be triggering defenses."


    "Defenses or warnings," Kijin added, her tone laced with a mix of curiosity and unease. "Whatever this island is guarding, it doesn''t want us getting too close."


    The path began to slope downward, the underbrush growing thicker as we descended into a shallow ravine. The air grew cooler, and a faint mist clung to the ground, swirling around our feet as we moved. The ravine opened into a narrow clearing, where the remains of an ancient stone bridge spanned a slow-moving creek.


    The bridge, though partially collapsed, was still passable, its surface worn smooth by time. Carvings similar to the ones we''d seen on the obelisk adorned its sides, though they were heavily weathered and difficult to decipher.


    "This is definitely part of the same network," I said, examining the carvings. The crystal pulsed faintly, confirming the connection. "It''s another marker, but it''s more degraded than the others."


    Raijuu sniffed at the edge of the bridge, growling softly. Kijin followed his gaze, her eyes narrowing. "Something''s been here recently," she muttered. "The ground''s disturbed."


    The chat, as always, had their theories:


    : Tracks? Could it be the same creature from the archway?


    : That bridge looks ancient. Is it stable enough to cross?


    : Be careful. This feels like the kind of place where an ambush could happen.


    As we crossed the bridge, the mist thickened, obscuring the far side of the ravine. Raijuu froze halfway across, his growl turning into a sharp bark as he stared into the fog. The hair on the back of my neck stood on end, and I tightened my grip on the crystal.


    "Something''s here," Tenko said, her voice barely above a whisper.


    A shape emerged from the mist¡ªlow to the ground and moving quickly. It was followed by another, then another. Within seconds, a pack of creatures had materialized on the far side of the bridge. They were quadrupeds, their sleek, black forms blending into the shadows, their glowing red eyes the only indication of their presence.


    "Hostiles incoming," I said, stepping back and positioning myself behind Kijin and Raijuu. "Defensive formation."


    The creatures hesitated at the edge of the bridge, their bodies tense as they sized us up. They moved with an unnerving coordination, their heads swiveling in unison as they gauged our strengths and weaknesses.


    Kijin raised her hands, summoning her barrier with a flick of her fingers. The glowing shield shimmered into existence, spanning the width of the bridge. "You''re not getting past me, mutts," she said, her voice regaining some of its usual bravado.


    Raijuu snarled, his body low and his muscles coiled. The creatures responded with a chorus of guttural growls, their movements growing more agitated as they tested the barrier''s edges.


    The first creature lunged, its claws scraping against Kijin''s shield with a screech that sent sparks flying. Raijuu darted forward, his claws raking across its flank and sending it tumbling into the creek below. The rest of the pack followed, their attacks relentless as they clawed and bit at the barrier.


    The chat exploded with commentary:


    : They''re coordinated. This isn''t just random wildlife.


    : Kijin''s holding them off, but how long can she keep the barrier up? sea??h th§× ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Raijuu''s a beast! Look at him go!


    The fight was chaotic, the narrow bridge forcing the creatures to funnel into a bottleneck. Kijin''s barrier held strong, her magic flaring brightly every time it absorbed an impact. Raijuu moved with precision, his attacks swift and brutal as he picked off the creatures one by one.


    Despite our efforts, it was clear the pack wasn''t going to back down. Their numbers weren''t overwhelming, but their persistence and coordination made them a serious threat. I focused the crystal''s energy, directing a pulse of light toward the bridge. The beam struck the ground at the creatures'' feet, forcing them to scatter.


    "That''s enough," I said, stepping forward as the remaining creatures hesitated. "Fall back, or you''ll regret it."


    The creatures seemed to understand the threat. After a tense moment, they retreated, their glowing eyes disappearing into the mist. The forest fell silent once more, the only sound the gentle burbling of the creek below.


    Kijin lowered her barrier, exhaling sharply. "Well, that was fun. They weren''t pushovers."


    "Too organized to be random predators," Tenko added, scanning the bridge with her camera. "Something¡ªor someone¡ªsent them."


    We regrouped on the far side of the bridge, taking stock of the situation. Raijuu seemed unharmed, his posture relaxed now that the immediate threat had passed. Kijin, though visibly tired, remained unscathed.


    "The defenses are escalating," I said, turning the crystal over in my hands. "First the creature at the archway, now this pack. The island is pushing back harder the closer we get."


    "We need to keep moving," Tenko said. "Stopping now will only give it more time to adapt."


    I nodded, adjusting my gear as we prepared to move.

 Chapter 150: Whispers of the Forgotten

    The aftermath of the ambush at the bridge weighed heavily as we ventured deeper into the Shifting Isle. The creatures'' tactical retreat was no coincidence¡ªit was deliberate, calculated. Whatever intelligence controlled this island, it wasn''t acting blindly. Each step forward felt like trespassing further into a territory that didn''t want us there.Raijuu, ever vigilant, padded ahead with quiet precision. His ears twitched at every faint sound, and his nose constantly sampled the air for unfamiliar scents. Kijin walked just behind him, her usual lively banter replaced by an unnerving silence. Even Tenko, who typically balanced the tension with her calm commentary, was focused solely on scanning our surroundings.


    The forest grew darker as we pressed on, the canopy above thickening to block out the light entirely. The faint glow of the crystal around my neck became our only reliable source of illumination. Its pulsing light flickered in perfect sync with my heartbeat, as though it too felt the mounting tension.


    The chat mirrored our unease, their comments split between humor and concern:


    : The deeper you go, the more this place feels alive. It''s creepy. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Raijuu hasn''t relaxed for a second. That''s not a good sign.


    : Kijin''s too quiet. Did something break her? She usually never shuts up.


    The terrain began to shift, the once soft, mossy ground replaced by jagged rocks and patches of slippery mud. Gnarled roots twisted across the trail like natural traps, forcing us to slow our pace. The crystal''s glow brightened slightly, signaling that we were still on the right path.


    "We must be getting close," I said, my voice low but steady. "The crystal''s pulse is stronger here than it was at the spring."


    Kijin glanced over her shoulder, her lips pressed into a thin line. "Let''s hope whatever''s ahead isn''t another welcoming party."


    The sound of rushing water reached us as the trail curved upward. The noise grew louder with each step, until we crested a small hill and found ourselves overlooking a massive waterfall. The cascade of water tumbled into a deep basin below, its surface shimmering faintly in the dim light. At the center of the basin stood another structure¡ªa circular platform partially submerged in the water, its surface etched with carvings similar to those we''d seen before.


    "There it is," Tenko said, pointing toward the platform. Her voice carried a note of awe. "The next waypoint."


    The platform was surrounded by jagged rocks, their surfaces slick with moss and algae. The waterfall''s spray hung in the air like a fine mist, creating rainbows that danced in the weak light. The sight was both beautiful and foreboding.


    The chat lit up with excitement:


    : That platform looks ancient! Is it another transmitter like the obelisk?


    : The carvings are glowing. This place definitely has power.


    : Watch your step! That basin looks dangerous.


    We descended the rocky slope carefully, the uneven terrain making every step a calculated risk. Raijuu led the way, his movements deliberate as he tested each foothold. Kijin followed, her hands glowing faintly as she readied her barrier in case of another attack. Tenko moved with quiet efficiency, her camera capturing every detail of the scene.


    Reaching the edge of the basin, I could feel the crystal''s energy intensify. Its pulsing light grew stronger, casting eerie shadows on the slick rocks around us. The water surrounding the platform seemed to shimmer unnaturally, as though infused with the same energy that powered the island''s other relics.


    "This place feels... alive," Kijin said, her voice barely audible over the roar of the waterfall. "The energy here is almost suffocating."


    Raijuu growled softly, his gaze fixed on the far side of the basin. Following his line of sight, I spotted a figure standing just beyond the mist. It was humanoid, but its features were obscured, its silhouette distorted by the spray of the falls.


    "Not again," I muttered, tightening my grip on the crystal.


    The figure didn''t move, but its presence was undeniable. It was watching us, its stance unnervingly still.


    The chat exploded with theories and warnings:


    : Is that another guardian? Or something worse?


    : It hasn''t attacked yet, but it''s definitely not friendly.


    : Tsukasa, don''t provoke it. Let''s figure out what it wants first.


    Ignoring the figure for the moment, I turned my attention to the platform. The crystal''s reaction suggested it was the key to unlocking whatever lay hidden here. Carefully, I stepped onto the slick surface, feeling the carvings vibrate faintly under my feet. The glow spread outward, forming concentric circles that pulsed rhythmically.


    Tenko stood at the edge of the water, her camera trained on the platform. "Be careful," she said. "The last time we activated something, it didn''t end well."


    As I held the crystal over the central carving, the platform''s energy surged. The water around it began to ripple, the glow intensifying until the entire basin was illuminated. The air vibrated with a low hum, growing louder with each passing second.


    The figure on the far side of the basin finally moved, stepping closer to the water''s edge. Its features remained obscured, but its intent was clear¡ªit was coming for us.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªprepare for combat," I ordered, stepping back as the platform''s energy reached a crescendo. "Tenko, keep recording. This might be important."


    The figure stepped onto the water, its movements impossibly smooth as it glided toward us. The crystal''s light flared violently, reacting to the entity''s presence. Kijin summoned her barrier, the glowing shield crackling as it materialized in front of her.


    "Let''s see what this one''s got," she said, her voice steady despite the tension.


    Raijuu snarled, his stance low and ready. The figure slowed as it approached the platform, its head tilting slightly as though assessing us. Then, with a burst of speed, it lunged forward, its form blurring into motion.


    The clearing erupted into chaos.


    Raijuu met the creature head-on, his claws raking across its surface with a sound like grinding metal. Kijin reinforced her barrier, blocking a series of rapid strikes that sent sparks flying. Tenko moved to higher ground, her camera capturing every moment as the battle unfolded.


    The creature was fast¡ªfaster than anything we''d encountered so far. Its attacks were precise, targeting weak points in our formation. Despite its humanoid appearance, its movements were fluid and unnatural, as though its body wasn''t bound by the same laws of physics as ours.


    The chat was a blur of messages:


    : That thing''s adapting! It''s learning your moves!


    : Kijin''s barrier is holding, but it''s not going to last forever.


    : Raijuu''s a beast! He''s keeping it distracted¡ªbarely.


    I focused the crystal''s energy, directing a concentrated burst of light at the creature. The beam struck its torso, forcing it to stagger, but it recovered almost instantly, its glowing eyes narrowing as it turned toward me.


    "This isn''t working," I muttered, retreating as the creature advanced. "We need a new strategy."


    Kijin gritted her teeth, her barrier flickering under the strain of the creature''s relentless assault. "Any bright ideas, Tsukasa? Because I could use one right about now."


    Before I could respond, the platform beneath us pulsed again, its light surging outward in a blinding flash. The creature froze, its body trembling as the energy enveloped it. Then, with a sound like shattering glass, it dissolved into a fine mist, leaving the clearing eerily silent.


    The chat was stunned:


    : WHAT JUST HAPPENED?! Did the platform save you?


    : That light... It looked like it destroyed the creature.


    : Tsukasa, check the crystal. Did it do something?


    The platform''s glow dimmed, its energy dissipating as the carvings returned to their dormant state. The basin fell silent once more, the only sound the steady roar of the waterfall.


    Breathing heavily, I looked around at my team. Kijin''s barrier faded, and she lowered her hands, her face pale but determined. Raijuu stood at her side, his fur bristling but unharmed.


    "We''re not done yet," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. "The island''s not going to let us leave without a fight."


    We regrouped and prepared to push forward, the path ahead still obscured by the island''s secrets.

 Chapter 151: Difficult Way Forward

    The platform''s faint hum lingered even after the battle ended. Its glyphs continued to glow softly, bathing the clearing in an eerie, flickering light. The mist swirling around the basin felt thicker now, carrying a weight that pressed against us like unseen hands. Kijin slumped onto a nearby rock, catching her breath as her barrier fizzled out of existence."Next time, I''d like a heads-up before I get dragged into a fight with a magic rock monster," she said, rubbing her temples. "And by ''heads-up,'' I mean a ''No, Kijin, it''s not worth your sanity.''"


    Raijuu was prowling the edge of the clearing, his nose low to the ground. His body language screamed tension, though his growls had subsided to a soft rumble. Tenko was busy reviewing the footage on her camera, her sharp eyes analyzing every frame as if looking for a hidden answer.


    The chat, of course, had its usual commentary:


    : Tsukasa, maybe next time don''t activate the ancient death trap? Just a thought.


    : Kijin carried, Raijuu MVP, and Tsukasa... well, you''re there, I guess.


    : That crystal is reacting to everything except Tsukasa''s social skills.


    I ignored the trolling. Years of streaming had given me a thick skin when it came to my audience''s sense of humor. Instead, I focused on the crystal, now pulsing faintly in my hand. The energy from the platform hadn''t dissipated entirely¡ªit had shifted, creating a faint path of light that pointed deeper into the forest.


    "This isn''t just a waypoint," I said, holding up the crystal. "The platform is directing us to something else. It''s part of a bigger network."


    Kijin snorted. "Great. More glowing breadcrumbs into the abyss. Just what I wanted."


    "The abyss is still better company than Tsukasa," the chat chimed in.


    : Confirmed: Kijin would rather fight monsters than talk to her summoner.


    : She''s not wrong, though.


    Raijuu barked sharply, breaking our moment of banter. He stared into the mist, his ears swiveling toward a faint sound we couldn''t hear. Kijin was on her feet in an instant, her hands glowing faintly as she prepared to summon her barrier.


    "Relax," I said, though my own grip on the crystal tightened. "If something was coming, Raijuu wouldn''t just bark¡ªhe''d attack."


    "Maybe he''s just tired of you," Kijin shot back.


    : Can''t blame him. We''re all tired of Tsukasa, and we''re not even there.


    : Plot twist: the crystal glows brighter when Tsukasa stops talking.


    Tenko finally looked up from her camera, her expression serious. "The carvings on this platform are different from the obelisk," she said. "They''re more... directional. It''s like they''re trying to guide us instead of just reacting."


    "Guide us where?" Kijin asked. "Because if it''s another fight like that last one, I''m filing a complaint with HR."


    : Kijin''s about to unionize the Shikigami.


    : Imagine being overpowered but still bad at your job. Couldn''t be us.


    Despite the constant ribbing from the chat, I knew they were just as curious as we were. With the crystal''s faint path leading us forward, we had no choice but to move. The only way to understand the Shifting Isle''s defenses was to press deeper into its heart. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The path grew steeper as we ascended, the forest becoming denser and darker with each step. Thick roots jutted out from the ground like natural traps, threatening to trip us at every turn. The air was cold and damp, and the faint mist from the basin seemed to follow us, curling around our legs like a living thing.


    Raijuu led the way, his movements deliberate and cautious. Kijin followed close behind, her hands glowing faintly in case another ambush came. Tenko was behind me, her camera trained on the path ahead, capturing every detail for both posterity and the chat''s endless speculation.


    The chat, unsurprisingly, had plenty to say:


    : Are we sure Raijuu isn''t leading you guys to your deaths? He seems done with this.


    : Kijin''s glowing hands are the real star of the stream. Can we get a highlight reel?


    : Tenko''s professionalism is wasted on this group. Tsukasa, do better.


    "I''d like to remind you all," I said, addressing the chat directly, "that I''m the reason this stream exists. Without me, you''d just be staring at a dark forest."


    : Without you, the forest might actually survive.


    : This man really out here thinking he''s the protagonist.


    "Keep talking," Kijin muttered. "The monsters might leave us alone out of pity."


    We reached the top of the slope and found ourselves overlooking a massive waterfall. The cascade tumbled into a circular basin below, its surface shimmering faintly in the dim light. At the center of the basin stood a stone archway, its carvings glowing faintly through the mist.


    "That''s it," I said, holding up the crystal. Its light pulsed in sync with the glyphs on the archway. "The next waypoint."


    The chat immediately lit up with warnings and jokes:


    : It''s another trap. Call it now: Tsukasa activates it, Kijin has to save the day.


    : Raijuu''s already scouting an escape route. He knows how this ends.


    : Tenko''s just waiting for the highlight moment where Tsukasa messes up.


    The descent into the basin was treacherous. The rocks were slick with moss and spray from the waterfall, and one wrong step could send us tumbling into the water below. Raijuu navigated the terrain with ease, but the rest of us struggled to keep up.


    Kijin slipped once, catching herself on a jagged outcropping. "Next time, remind me to wear cleats," she grumbled.


    : Kijin almost fell. If she had, Raijuu would''ve started a new party without you.


    : Tsukasa''s leadership really showing here. Everyone''s just barely surviving.


    We reached the base of the basin and approached the archway. The crystal''s glow brightened as we drew near, its pulse syncing with the glyphs. The air around the archway felt charged, thick with static energy that made my hair stand on end.


    Before I could examine it further, Raijuu barked sharply. From the mist, another figure emerged. It was humanoid, but its body was sleek and angular, made of the same black stone as the previous creature. Its glowing blue eyes locked onto us, and it began to move.


    "Here we go again," Kijin muttered, summoning her barrier in a flash of light.


    The chat was ready for round two:


    : It''s another one! Let''s see if Tsukasa can hit it this time.


    : Kijin vs. the Isle''s guardians. Tsukasa vs. his own incompetence.


    : Raijuu and Kijin are the real heroes here. Tenko''s the witness.


    The figure stepped onto the water, its movements impossibly smooth. The glyphs on the archway flared brightly, and the crystal''s light surged in response. Whatever this thing was, it wasn''t going to let us pass without a fight.

 Chapter 152: Echoes of Resistance

    The platform''s hum faded, leaving an unsettling silence in its wake. The creature was gone, consumed by the vortex that erupted from the archway, but its memory lingered in the charged air. The faint glow of the glyphs on the platform and the crystal''s steady pulse were the only reminders that we had survived¡ªnot won.Kijin collapsed onto a moss-covered rock, letting out a groan of exhaustion. "I''m calling it. These guardians are getting smarter. What''s next, one that gives us a pop quiz?"


    Raijuu, ever the sentinel, prowled the edge of the clearing, his nose low to the ground. His growls had subsided, but the occasional flick of his ears suggested he was still uneasy. Tenko, always methodical, stood near the archway with her camera aimed at the faint traces of energy left behind by the vortex.


    The chat, as always, wasted no time in weighing in:


    : Kijin soloed another boss. Tsukasa just watched with his shiny rock.


    : Raijuu''s the only one with his priorities straight. Tsukasa, take notes.


    : That archway looked way cooler than you during that fight. Sad, really.


    I ignored the trolling, focusing instead on the crystal in my hand. It was warm, its glow steady but subdued, as if resting after exerting itself. Whatever connection it had to the island''s defenses, it wasn''t just reactive¡ªit was symbiotic, guiding us while keeping us at arm''s length from true understanding.


    "This isn''t just about defense," I said, breaking the silence. "The crystal and the archways are part of a system. It''s not just trying to keep us out¡ªit''s leading us somewhere."


    Tenko glanced up from her camera. "Leading us, or testing us? The energy patterns suggest the island''s network is designed to escalate with each encounter. It''s not just reacting to us¡ªit''s studying us."


    "Great," Kijin muttered. "I love being someone''s science experiment."


    : Yeah, Kijin, but if they''re studying Tsukasa, their report card''s gonna say ''Needs Improvement.''


    : Plot twist: the island''s just trying to send Tsukasa a friend request.


    : Raijuu''s carrying harder than my group projects. Give that dog a medal.


    Raijuu barked sharply, cutting off the chat''s commentary. He stood frozen, his head cocked to the side as he stared into the mist. The faint sound of rustling leaves reached us, followed by a low, guttural growl from somewhere deep in the forest.


    Kijin was on her feet in an instant, her hands glowing as she summoned a barrier. "We''re not done yet," she said, her voice tight. "Something else is out there."


    "Hold position," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. Its glow flared briefly, reacting to the unseen threat. "Raijuu, stay sharp. Tenko, keep that camera rolling."


    The sound grew louder, the rustling giving way to heavy footsteps. The mist shifted, swirling unnaturally as if disturbed by an enormous presence. Then, through the haze, a shape emerged¡ªmassive and quadrupedal, with jagged stone-like plates covering its body. Its eyes glowed the same eerie blue as the previous creature''s runes, but its size and bulk made it far more intimidating.


    The chat immediately lit up with their usual mix of humor and panic:


    : Okay, so it''s a boss rush. Good luck, Tsukasa. You''ll need it.


    : That thing''s got the ''I eat adventurers for breakfast'' vibe.


    : Kijin''s barrier better hold, or we''re about to witness a Tsukasa pancake.


    Raijuu growled low, his body coiled and ready to spring. Kijin adjusted her stance, reinforcing her barrier as the creature lumbered closer. Its steps shook the ground, sending small rocks tumbling into the basin. The air around it crackled with static energy, the runes on its body glowing brighter with each movement.


    "This one''s not like the others," Tenko said, her voice calm despite the tension. "Its energy signature is off the charts."


    "Fantastic..... Just once, I''d like a dumb monster. Something I can punch without overthinking it."


    The creature let out a thunderous roar, the sound reverberating through the clearing. Then it charged, its massive bulk barreling toward us with terrifying speed.


    "Kijin!" I shouted, but she was already in motion.


    Her barrier flared brilliantly, meeting the creature''s charge head-on. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the air, the barrier holding firm but cracking slightly under the strain. Sparks flew as the creature clawed at the shield, its glowing runes shifting and pulsating as if analyzing its target.


    Raijuu darted to the side, his movements a blur as he leapt onto the creature''s flank. His claws raked against its stone plates, leaving deep gouges that glowed faintly before sealing themselves. The creature twisted, snapping at him with razor-sharp teeth, but Raijuu was too quick.


    "Tsukasa, do something!" Kijin yelled, her voice strained as she reinforced her barrier. "I can''t hold this thing forever!"


    The crystal pulsed violently in my hand, its light growing brighter as it resonated with the creature''s energy. The glyphs on the archway flared to life once more, their patterns shifting and aligning with the crystal''s glow.


    "Tenko, are they syncing?"


    "Yes."


    "The crystal and the archway are feeding off each other. If you channel the energy, it might disrupt the creature''s regeneration."


    "Channel it how?" I muttered, but there was no time for hesitation. I raised the crystal, directing its light toward the archway. The glyphs responded immediately, their glow intensifying as the crystal''s energy flowed into them. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The creature roared again, sensing the shift in power. It turned its glowing eyes toward me, abandoning its assault on Kijin''s barrier. Raijuu intercepted it mid-charge, his claws digging into its shoulder as they tumbled to the ground.


    "Now!" Kijin shouted, dropping her barrier to unleash a blast of concentrated energy. The beam struck the creature square in the chest, staggering it just long enough for the archway to activate.


    A vortex of light and shadow erupted within the archway, pulling everything toward its center. The creature struggled, its claws gouging deep furrows into the ground as it fought against the pull. Raijuu leapt clear just as the vortex''s power reached its peak, consuming the creature in a blinding flash.


    When the light faded, the archway stood silent once more, its glyphs dim and lifeless. The clearing was still, the oppressive tension finally lifting as the mist began to dissipate.


    The chat erupted in celebration¡ªand mockery:


    : Tsukasa actually did something! Is this character development?


    : Raijuu carried, Kijin tanked, and Tsukasa... pointed a flashlight. A+ teamwork.


    : That vortex was cooler than the fight. Can we trigger it again?


    Kijin dropped onto a nearby rock, wiping sweat from her brow.


    "If the next guardian''s any bigger, I''m retiring," she said.


    "Raijuu can have my spot."


    Raijuu padded over, his fur singed but otherwise unharmed. He nudged my hand, his growl low and affectionate.


    "We''re not done yet," I said, looking at the now-dormant archway. The crystal''s pulse had steadied, but its light still glowed faintly, as if waiting for the next step.


    "The island''s leading us somewhere, and it''s not going to make it easy."

 Chapter 153: Into the Unknown

    After regrouping at the basin, the atmosphere felt heavier than before, like the island itself was aware of our survival and displeased by it. The mist that had thinned after the vortex consumed the creature began to thicken again, swirling around us as we prepared to move on. The crystal''s pulse was faint but insistent, its glow pointing us toward another hidden waypoint deeper within the forest.Raijuu took the lead, his movements deliberate and cautious as he sniffed the air. Kijin trailed close behind, her hands glowing faintly as she kept her barrier spell on standby. Tenko stayed near me, her camera capturing the shifting shadows and eerie beauty of the trail ahead. None of us spoke for a while, the quiet punctuated only by the crunch of leaves underfoot and the occasional drip of water from the trees above.


    The chat''s usual antics broke the silence, their messages pinging against my wrist display:


    : Why does the island feel like it''s giving you the silent treatment?


    : Kijin looks done. Someone get her a vacation.


    : Raijuu''s leading because he''s the only one the island doesn''t hate.


    "I see the chat''s in peak form today," I muttered, earning a sharp glance from Kijin.


    "They''re not wrong," she said. "This place feels off. It''s like the quiet before a storm."


    "Or before Tsukasa inevitably touches something he shouldn''t," the chat chimed in.


    : Can''t wait for him to ''accidentally'' trigger another boss.


    : Kijin deserves hazard pay for putting up with this.


    : Raijuu''s leading the team while Tsukasa carries the plot device. Classic.


    Ignoring the trolling, I focused on the crystal. Its glow was steady but dim, as though conserving its energy. Whatever connection it had to the island''s network, it was clear that we hadn''t seen the worst of what lay ahead.


    The trail narrowed as we descended into a deep ravine, the air growing cooler with each step. The trees above formed an almost impenetrable canopy, blocking out what little light remained. The faint sound of running water echoed through the ravine, guiding us toward a small stream that cut through the rocks like a silver ribbon.


    Raijuu stopped suddenly, his ears twitching as he sniffed the air. His low growl set us all on edge.


    "What is it?" I asked, gripping the crystal tightly.


    Kijin stepped forward, her barrier materializing with a soft hum. "Trouble," she said, her eyes scanning the shadows. "And it''s close."


    The chat''s warnings came in quick succession:


    : Raijuu''s growling. That''s never a good sign.


    : Kijin''s barrier''s up. You know what that means¡ªincoming fight!


    : Tsukasa, do literally anything useful for once.


    The rustling in the underbrush grew louder, and a moment later, a swarm of small, glowing creatures burst out of the shadows. They looked like oversized insects, their translucent wings shimmering with an iridescent glow. Their bodies pulsed faintly, emitting bursts of light that flickered erratically.


    "Lumivores," Tenko said, her voice calm but firm. "They feed on energy sources, including magical ones."


    "Perfect," Kijin muttered, her barrier flaring brighter as the creatures swarmed around her. "Guess who''s on the menu today?"


    The lumivores slammed into her barrier, their glowing bodies sparking as they tried to penetrate it. Raijuu leapt into the fray, his claws swiping through the swarm with brutal efficiency. Tenko stood back, her camera trained on the action as she analyzed their behavior.


    "They''re coordinated," she said. "Their movements aren''t random¡ªthey''re targeting the barrier directly."


    : The bugs are smarter than Tsukasa. Let that sink in.


    : Kijin''s doing all the work again. What else is new?


    : Raijuu''s MVP as usual. Tsukasa''s still holding his flashlight.


    I ignored the chat''s jabs and focused the crystal''s energy. Its glow intensified as I directed a pulse of light toward the swarm. The lumivores reacted instantly, their bodies trembling as the light disrupted their coordination. They scattered briefly before regrouping, their movements more erratic.


    "They don''t like the crystal," I said, stepping closer to Kijin. "If we keep it active, it might destabilize them."


    "Then hurry up!" she snapped, her voice strained as more lumivores battered her barrier. "I''m not a buffet!"


    Channeling the crystal''s energy, I released another pulse of light. This time, the effect was stronger. The lumivores shrieked¡ªa high-pitched, grating sound¡ªand began to dissolve, their glowing bodies disintegrating into tiny motes of light that vanished into the mist.


    Raijuu finished off the last of the swarm with a vicious swipe of his claws, his growls subsiding as the threat dissipated. Kijin dropped her barrier, her hands shaking slightly as she let out a sigh of relief.


    "Next time," she said, glaring at me, "try to figure that out before I become bug food."


    The chat wasted no time piling on: sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Kijin carried again. Tsukasa just stood there like a decorative lamp.


    : Raijuu deserves a steak for that performance. Tsukasa deserves... nothing.


    : Tenko''s camera work was more impressive than Tsukasa''s contribution.


    "We''re alive, aren''t we?" I shot back, though I couldn''t hide the irritation in my voice.


    "Barely," Kijin muttered. "Let''s move before something worse shows up."


    The trail leveled out as we left the ravine, the mist thinning slightly as the trees grew sparser. The crystal''s pulse remained steady, guiding us toward a clearing up ahead. In the center of the clearing stood a massive stone pedestal, its surface covered in glyphs similar to those on the platform and archway.


    "This is it," I said, approaching the pedestal cautiously. The crystal''s light brightened, syncing with the glyphs as I held it close. "Another waypoint."


    The chat lit up with excitement:


    : New relic unlocked! What''s it gonna do this time?


    : Place your bets: trap, guardian, or another vortex?


    : Tsukasa, maybe don''t touch it immediately. For once.


    The pedestal began to hum softly, its glyphs glowing brighter as the crystal''s energy flowed into it. The ground beneath us trembled, and a faint beam of light shot upward from the pedestal, piercing the canopy above. The energy felt different this time¡ªless hostile, more inviting.


    Tenko adjusted her camera, her voice tinged with curiosity. "This isn''t like the previous waypoints. It feels... purposeful."


    The glyphs shifted, forming a map-like pattern that spread across the pedestal''s surface. The crystal''s glow intensified, highlighting a specific point on the map¡ªa location deep within the heart of the island.


    "That''s where we''re going next," I said, studying the map. "The crystal''s guiding us."


    Kijin crossed her arms, her expression skeptical. "And what are the odds something''s waiting for us there? Something bigger than bugs or stone monsters?"


    "High," I admitted. "But if this island wants to test us, we''ll pass."


    The chat wasn''t so optimistic:


    : ''We''ll pass,'' he says. Famous last words.


    : Tsukasa''s optimism is the real plot twist here.


    : Kijin''s already mentally preparing for the next fight. Raijuu''s just tired.

 Chapter 154: Heart of the Island

    The map etched into the pedestal flickered faintly, the glowing glyphs shifting to form a clear path through the dense forest. The endpoint¡ªthe so-called heart of the island¡ªseemed to pulse with life, a beacon calling us deeper into the unknown. The air was charged, heavy with anticipation, and even the usual banter among my Shikigami was replaced by an uneasy silence.Raijuu paced near the pedestal, his ears twitching as he scanned the surrounding trees. Kijin leaned back against a moss-covered boulder, her hands glowing faintly as she idly maintained a fragment of her barrier. Tenko stood nearby, her camera aimed at the map, its lens glinting in the dim light.


    "This feels like a trap," Kijin said, breaking the silence. "A big glowing ''Welcome Here, Idiots'' sign just waiting for us to step into it."


    Raijuu barked softly, his sharp eyes locking onto the distant trail ahead. He didn''t seem to disagree.


    The chat, of course, had their own colorful theories:


    : Plot twist: the map is a decoy, and the real treasure was the friends we made along the way.


    : Kijin''s got the right idea¡ªthis place is screaming ''death trap.''


    : Raijuu''s thinking, "I should''ve joined a more competent explorer."


    "It''s not a trap," I said, though the words felt hollow even to me. "The crystal''s been guiding us this far. It hasn''t steered us wrong."


    Kijin raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, guiding us into bugs, stone monsters, and magical death vortexes. Great track record."


    Tenko spoke up, her calm voice cutting through the tension. "The island''s network of glyphs is ancient, but it''s consistent. If the crystal and the map are in sync, they''re leading us somewhere specific."


    "Somewhere worse," Kijin muttered.


    : Tenko''s out here being the voice of reason while Tsukasa fumbles with his glowing rock.


    : Kijin''s sarcasm is the glue holding this team together.


    : Imagine being the only human in the group and still being the least useful.


    The trail leading away from the pedestal was narrow and overgrown, the dense forest pressing in from all sides. The canopy above blocked out most of the light, leaving us in a perpetual twilight that felt both eerie and oppressive. Raijuu led the way, his movements slow and deliberate, while Kijin stayed close behind, her hands glowing faintly in preparation for another ambush. Tenko kept her camera focused on the crystal, her attention split between documenting our progress and scanning for potential threats.


    The chat''s energy shifted as the mist began to thicken around us, their comments ranging from playful to unnerved:


    : The vibe here is "forest where the last horror movie scene happens." Good luck, I guess.


    : Raijuu''s the MVP, but Kijin''s got the best commentary. Tsukasa¡­ yeah. Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Bet you 1,000 yen Tsukasa touches something he shouldn''t in the next 10 minutes.


    We trudged onward in silence, the forest growing darker and colder with each step. The faint sound of running water reached our ears as the trail began to slope downward, leading us into a deep ravine. The air here was damp and heavy, carrying the faint scent of moss and decay. The crystal pulsed faintly, its glow cutting through the thickening mist.


    Raijuu stopped abruptly, his ears swiveling toward an unseen threat. A low growl rumbled in his throat, and his body tensed as he sniffed the air. Kijin was on edge instantly, her barrier materializing with a soft hum.


    "What''s out there?" she asked, her voice sharp.


    Raijuu growled again, his eyes fixed on a cluster of trees shrouded in mist. A moment later, the underbrush rustled, and a swarm of glowing creatures burst into view. They resembled oversized insects, their translucent wings emitting a faint, high-pitched whine.


    "More lumivores?" I asked, gripping the crystal tightly.


    "No," Tenko said, her tone measured. "These are different. Bigger, faster, and more coordinated."


    : The bugs are evolving. Next step: unionizing against Kijin.


    : Kijin''s barrier vs. glowing bugs¡ªplace your bets.


    : Raijuu''s already thinking, "Not this crap again."


    The swarm moved with unnerving precision, converging on Kijin''s barrier in a coordinated assault. Sparks flew as their glowing bodies struck the shield, their iridescent light reflecting off its surface. Raijuu lunged at the creatures, his claws slicing through their ranks with brutal efficiency. Despite his efforts, their numbers didn''t seem to dwindle.


    "They''re not attacking randomly," Tenko observed, her camera zooming in on the swarm. "They''re targeting the barrier¡ªand the crystal."


    "Fantastic," Kijin said, reinforcing her barrier as cracks began to form. "Your shiny rock''s a bug magnet. Fix it, Tsukasa!"


    The crystal''s glow flared as the swarm intensified their assault. Focusing its energy, I directed a pulse of light toward the creatures. They reacted instantly, their bodies trembling as the light disrupted their movements. Several disintegrated into glowing motes, but the swarm quickly adapted, their attacks growing more frenzied.


    "It''s not enough," I said, releasing another pulse. "They''re adapting too quickly."


    : Plot twist: the bugs are smarter than the team. Raijuu excluded, obviously.


    : Just give the crystal to Raijuu. He''s clearly the leader here.


    : Imagine being an EX-rank explorer and losing to bugs.


    Raijuu darted through the swarm, his claws raking through their glowing bodies with savage precision. Despite his efforts, the creatures kept coming, their glowing forms almost overwhelming the barrier. Kijin gritted her teeth, sweat beading on her brow as she held the shield steady.


    "Tsukasa, any time now!" she shouted.


    The crystal''s energy surged in my hand, its light growing almost blinding. Channeling its power, I focused a concentrated beam of light on the swarm. The creatures shrieked¡ªa high-pitched, grating sound¡ªas the energy overwhelmed them. One by one, they disintegrated, their glowing bodies dissolving into the mist.


    When the last of the lumivores vanished, the forest fell silent once more. The crystal''s glow dimmed, its energy stabilizing as the tension eased.


    Kijin dropped her barrier, collapsing onto a nearby rock. "Next time," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "I''m bringing a giant bug zapper."


    Raijuu padded over, his fur singed but otherwise unharmed. He nudged my hand with his nose, his growl low and reassuring.


    : Raijuu carried again. Tsukasa just held the flashlight.


    : Kijin deserves an award for Most Patient Shikigami. Tsukasa deserves a time-out.


    : Bugs: 0. Kijin and Raijuu: 100. Tsukasa: participation trophy.


    "Let''s move," I said, pocketing the crystal. "The heart of the island is waiting."


    The chat, still buzzing with their usual mix of humor and critique, accompanied us as we resumed our journey. The path ahead grew steeper, the shadows deeper, and the mist thicker. Whatever secrets the heart of the island held, it was clear we weren''t done earning them.

 Chapter 155 The Threshold

    The deeper we pushed into the island, the more oppressive the atmosphere became. The forest around us felt alive, and not in a comforting way. The trees bent unnaturally toward the path, their gnarled branches intertwining above us like skeletal fingers. Mist hung thick and low, swallowing everything beyond a few meters and dampening sound to an eerie hush.Raijuu was the first to pick up on it¡ªa shift in the air, subtle but charged. His growls were more frequent, low and rumbling, and his sharp gaze darted to every shadow. Kijin walked behind him, her hands faintly glowing as she kept her barrier on standby. Tenko''s camera lens glinted in the dim light as she recorded the shifting shadows of the trail ahead.


    Discover hidden tales at empire


    The chat buzzed with commentary that oscillated between amusement and growing unease:


    : The forest is so extra. Is this a dungeon or a haunted house?


    : Raijuu deserves hazard pay for dealing with Tsukasa''s leadership.


    : Is it me, or are the trees looking at you? Not creepy at all.


    I tightened my grip on the crystal, which pulsed faintly in my hand. Its warm glow was the only steady light cutting through the mist. The map etched into the pedestal earlier had pointed us here, but now, staring into the dark maw of the forest, I couldn''t help but question whether we were being guided or lured.


    "This trail''s narrowing fast," Kijin muttered, ducking under a low branch. "You sure this isn''t a setup? Because it''s got all the red flags."


    "It''s not a setup," I replied, though my voice lacked conviction. "The crystal''s been consistent so far. It hasn''t led us astray."


    "That''s not saying much," Kijin shot back. "It also lit up every time we almost died."


    The chat jumped on her words like a pack of hyenas:


    : Kijin''s calling it like it is. Someone has to.


    : Raijuu should just take the crystal and run. He''s clearly the brains here.


    : Tsukasa: glowing rock enthusiast. Raijuu: actual problem solver.


    Raijuu suddenly stopped in his tracks, his body tense as he crouched low to the ground. A deep growl rumbled in his throat, and his sharp ears swiveled toward an unseen threat. Kijin was on alert immediately, stepping forward as her barrier flared into existence with a soft hum.


    "What is it?" Tenko asked, lowering her camera briefly to scan the surroundings. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Raijuu sniffed the air, his growl deepening. Then, with a sharp bark, he locked eyes on a shadow moving through the mist. The sound of cracking branches echoed through the forest, growing louder as something massive approached.


    "Here we go," Kijin muttered, reinforcing her barrier. "It sounds big."


    From the shadows emerged a creature that looked like it had crawled straight out of the island''s core¡ªa hulking amalgamation of roots, stone, and glowing blue veins that pulsed in sync with the crystal in my hand. Its glowing eyes locked onto us, and it let out a low, guttural roar that vibrated through the ground.


    The chat erupted with fresh energy:


    : Okay, that thing looks like it eats adventurers for fun.


    : Root monster? More like plot armor tester.


    : Place your bets: Kijin solos or Raijuu hard-carries.


    Raijuu growled, baring his teeth as he prowled forward. Kijin''s barrier flickered slightly as she adjusted its strength, her hands glowing brighter. Tenko zoomed her camera in on the creature, her expression calm but focused.


    "It''s drawing energy from the island," Tenko said. "The same energy as the crystal."


    "So it''s linked to this thing?" Kijin asked, glancing back at me. "Great. Your shiny rock''s got a twin."


    The creature roared again and charged, its massive arms swinging with enough force to uproot small trees. Kijin''s barrier absorbed the blow, sending sparks flying, but the cracks spiderwebbing across its surface hinted at the sheer power behind the attack.


    Raijuu wasted no time, darting around the creature''s legs and clawing at its glowing veins. Splinters and shards of stone flew as his claws found purchase, but the creature barely faltered, its glowing veins knitting back together almost instantly.


    "It''s regenerating," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. Its glow intensified, reacting to the creature''s energy. "We need to disrupt its connection to the island."


    "Oh, is that all?" Kijin snapped, reinforcing her barrier as the creature slammed into it again. "Why didn''t you say so earlier? I''ll just call tech support."


    : Kijin''s sarcasm game is strong today. Someone get her a raise.


    : Raijuu''s doing all the damage. Tsukasa''s just holding his glow stick.


    : Tsukasa, maybe try hitting it instead of narrating?


    Focusing the crystal''s energy, I directed a concentrated beam of light at the creature''s chest. The beam struck its core, and for a moment, the glowing veins dimmed. The creature let out a guttural roar, stumbling slightly, but the veins quickly reignited, their glow even brighter than before.


    "It''s adapting," Tenko said, her camera capturing every movement. "We need to hit it harder or faster."


    Raijuu snarled and leapt onto the creature''s back, his claws raking across its glowing veins with feral precision. The creature twisted violently, trying to throw him off, but Raijuu held firm, tearing at the lines of energy with relentless determination.


    "Kijin, drop the barrier and hit it while it''s distracted!" I shouted.


    Kijin didn''t hesitate. Her barrier flickered out, and she unleashed a concentrated blast of energy directly at the creature''s core. The beam struck true, shattering the glowing veins and sending a shockwave rippling through the clearing.


    The creature let out a final, echoing roar as its body began to disintegrate. The roots and stone crumbled into ash, and the glowing veins faded into wisps of light that vanished into the mist. Raijuu landed gracefully, his fur bristling but otherwise unharmed.


    The forest fell silent again, the oppressive energy dissipating as quickly as it had arrived. Kijin let out a long breath, wiping sweat from her brow as she leaned against a nearby tree.


    "Next time, how about we skip the big scary monsters?" she said, glaring at me. "Just once, I''d like a dungeon to be boring."


    The chat immediately seized the moment:


    : Kijin and Raijuu: MVPs. Tsukasa: cheerleader.


    : The glowing tree guy stood no chance against teamwork¡ªand sarcasm.


    : Tenko''s footage is the only thing keeping this adventure professional.


    I pocketed the crystal, its light dim but steady. The mist ahead parted slightly, revealing the faint outline of another structure¡ªa towering spire that seemed to pulse faintly with the same rhythm as the crystal. It was far enough away that the details were unclear, but close enough to feel the weight of its presence.


    "We''re not done yet," I said, glancing at my team. "That spire... it''s the next step."


    Kijin groaned but pushed off the tree. "Of course it is. Let''s get it over with before something else tries to kill us."


    With Raijuu scouting ahead and Tenko capturing every detail, we moved forward, the path growing darker and steeper with every step.

 Chapter 156 The Spires Shadow

    The journey to the spire was not merely a walk through nature, but a plunge into the heart of ancient mysteries that the island had jealously guarded for millennia. The dense canopy above formed a dark tapestry, woven with threads of mist that danced around us like spectral entities. The path underfoot, slick with moss and fallen leaves, seemed to pulse with a life of its own, as if the very ground knew of our trespass and whispered secrets in a language lost to time.Raijuu, our steadfast guide, led with cautious steps, his senses finely tuned to the slightest disturbances. His occasional growls punctuated the silence, serving as grim reminders of the dangers that lurked just beyond sight. Kijin, always ready for combat, maintained a shimmering barrier around her hands, casting ghostly lights onto the forest floor. Tenko''s camera captured every eerie detail, her lens focusing on phenomena that our eyes alone might have missed.


    The chat, ever-present and ever-vocal, kept up a steady stream of commentary that ranged from insightful to irreverent:


    : This is like that level in every video game that makes you question if the developers hate their players. Experience more content on empire


    : Raijuu''s the only one who hasn''t freaked out yet. That dog''s got nerves of steel.


    : Watch Kijin turn this into a haunted forest episode of her own adventure series.


    As the forest began to thin, revealing the stark silhouette of the spire against the gray sky, a chilling wind swept through the trees, carrying with it a low, mournful howl that seemed neither animal nor human. It was as if the island itself was mourning¡ªor warning us.


    "We''re being watched," Kijin whispered, her eyes narrowing as she scanned the treeline. "Something''s out there, and it''s not just the usual creepy-crawlies."


    Tenko paused, adjusting her camera to night vision. "Got it. Anything that moves gets filmed. Maybe we''ll make a documentary out of this¡ªif we survive."


    : Tenko''s footage is going to end up on one of those paranormal investigation shows. ''Mysteries at the Spire.''


    : Kijin''s ready to fight a ghost. Tsukasa, please don''t try to make friends with it.


    As we approached the base of the spire, the wind grew stronger, whipping around us with an intensity that seemed almost deliberate. The entrance to the spire, a grand archway carved with ancient runes, loomed before us, its dark maw inviting yet foreboding.


    "I don''t like this," Kijin said, her voice barely audible over the howling wind. "It feels like we''re walking into a trap."


    "We need to be careful," I agreed, feeling the crystal pulse more vigorously in my hand as we neared the entrance. "Stay close and keep your eyes open. We don''t know what''s inside."


    Raijuu led the way into the spire, his body tense and alert. As we crossed the threshold, the wind ceased abruptly, replaced by an oppressive silence that hung heavily in the air. The interior of the spire was vast, the walls stretching upward into shadow, the ceiling lost to darkness.


    The passageway ahead was lined with torches that flickered to life as we passed, casting an eerie glow that threw our shadows against the smooth stone walls. The floor was a mosaic of tiles, each depicting scenes of celestial events¡ªcomets, solar eclipses, and constellations¡ªsuggesting that the spire might have once been an observatory or temple dedicated to astronomical pursuits.


    "This architecture is incredible," Tenko murmured, panning her camera over the intricate carvings. "These people knew things about the stars that we can only guess at."


    : Maybe they left a star map to the nearest coffee shop. Tsukasa looks like he needs it.


    : If they start finding zodiac signs on the walls, I''m calling it¡ªthis was an ancient astrology club.


    As we delved deeper, the air grew cooler, and the faint sound of chanting echoed through the halls. The words were indistinguishable, but their rhythmic cadence was unsettling, a ghostly whisper from ages past that sent shivers down our spines.


    Rounding a bend, we entered a large chamber dominated by a massive crystal similar to the one I carried. It was suspended in the air by unseen forces, pulsing with a brilliant light that filled the room with a soft radiance. Around it, statues of hooded figures stood in a circle, their hands raised as if in worship or warning.


    "This is it," I said, stepping forward cautiously. "The heart of the spire."


    Kijin remained on guard, her eyes darting around the chamber. "And probably the heart of the island. Look at this setup. They were channeling serious power through here."


    : Bet those statues come to life. This is how horror movies start.


    : Tsukasa''s about to touch something, and I''m not ready for this.


    Approaching the central crystal, I felt a connection form between it and the one in my hand. A surge of energy flowed through me, both exhilarating and terrifying. The chamber seemed to come alive, the statues glowing with an inner light, and the chanting grew louder, more insistent.


    "We need to be careful," Tenko said, her voice tense. "Whatever was done here, it was powerful and potentially dangerous."


    "I''ll take a look at the inscriptions," Kijin added, moving to examine the base of one of the statues. "Maybe there''s a clue about how to safely interact with this thing."


    Raijuu paced around the perimeter, his growls low and constant as he sensed the lingering energies.


    Suddenly, the floor beneath us began to vibrate, a low rumble that quickly grew into a roar. The chamber shook violently, dust and small stones falling from the ceiling as the crystal above us shone brighter.


    "Something''s happening!" I shouted over the noise. "We might have triggered a defense mechanism!"


    The statues'' eyes lit up, casting a baleful glare as the chamber continued to shake. The crystal in my hand grew hot, almost burning, as the energy in the room surged toward a climax.


    "We need to find a way to stop this," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. "Before the whole place comes down on our heads!"


    Kijin, having found something in the inscriptions, shouted back, "It''s a containment spell! They were holding something back!"


    : That doesn''t sound good. What did they contain? A coffee shop?


    : Raijuu, protect them! Tsukasa, try not to make it worse!


    With the chamber threatening to collapse, and the mystery of the spire''s power now potentially catastrophic, we scrambled to decipher the ancient spells and halt the destructive sequence we had unwittingly initiated. The fate of our expedition, and possibly much more, hung in the balance as we delved deeper into the arcane secrets of the spire. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 157 Unleashing the Ancients

    The spire''s shadow loomed large as we delved deeper into its heart. Tsukasa, usually more at ease in the familiar chaos of dungeon streams, found himself leading not just a physical expedition, but an archaeological revelation that could reshape history. The responsibility weighed heavily on him, compounded by his inherent social awkwardness which made the sudden thrust into leadership even more challenging.As we navigated through the dimly lit corridors, every footstep echoed off the ancient stone, a constant reminder of the thousands of years these walls had stood silent, guarding their secrets. The air was cool and dry, filled with the musty scent of old parchment and stone that had not felt the warmth of sunlight in centuries.


    Raijuu, sensing the tense atmosphere, stayed close to Tsukasa, occasionally nudging him with a reassuring snout. Kijin, her eyes constantly scanning the shadows, kept her hand near her weapon, ready for whatever might come. Tenko, her camera held steady, captured every glyph and artifact, her lens a silent observer to history unfolding.


    The chat, ever-present, provided a backdrop of commentary that ranged from humorous to supportive:


    : Tsukasa looks like he''s about to solve the island''s ancient tax system.


    : If they find ancient coffee, we''ll know this was meant to be.


    : Raijuu''s the real leader here, let''s be honest.


    As we moved further into the spire, the narrow passageway opened into a large chamber. The room was dominated by a massive stone table, its surface covered with scattered scrolls and artifacts. Along the walls were shelves filled with more scrolls and several strange, metallic objects that gleamed under the flickering torchlight.


    "Look at this," Kijin said, picking up a metallic rod from the table. It was intricately carved and felt surprisingly light. "It''s not just a stick. It has some sort of mechanism inside."


    Tsukasa approached, his curiosity overcoming his usual reticence. He examined the rod, turning it in his hands, feeling the cold metal against his skin. "It''s a key," he concluded. "See here? These glyphs match those by the door we passed earlier."


    : Tsukasa playing Indiana Jones is my new favorite show.


    : Don''t break it, Tsukasa. We know your track record with delicate things.


    With cautious optimism, we decided to explore further, Raijuu leading the way back to the door Tsukasa had mentioned. The corridor was silent except for our footsteps and the soft, mechanical whir of Tenko''s camera. As we reached the door, Tsukasa inserted the metallic rod into an inconspicuous slot beside it. With a click, the mechanism activated, and the door slowly swung open, revealing another chamber, this one even larger than the last.


    This new room was a treasure trove of artifacts, each shelf and table laden with items that glittered with the promise of untold stories. In the center of the room stood a large, circular device, its surface a complex array of gears and symbols that suggested a celestial model.


    "We''ve found something significant," Tenko whispered, almost to herself, as she recorded every angle of the device.


    : That''s no ordinary room. That''s an ancient man cave.


    : If they start moving stuff, tell them to lift with their knees, not their backs.


    Despite the overwhelming urge to explore every object, we focused on the celestial device. Its construction suggested it was used to track astronomical events, perhaps even to predict them.


    Kijin, ever practical, suggested a methodical approach. "Let''s document everything first. We don''t want to disrupt something we don''t understand."


    Tsukasa nodded, feeling more comfortable with this systematic approach. He started from the outer edge of the room, working inward, his streamer instincts kicking in as he narrated his observations for an imaginary audience, helping to manage his social anxiety.


    : Tsukasa''s giving us that premium content now.


    : Bet Tsukasa wishes he could livestream this.


    As we cataloged each artifact, the significance of our discovery became clear. This was not merely a storage room; it was a center of learning, perhaps even a classroom where ancient scholars gathered to study the stars.


    The realization hit Tsukasa suddenly. "We''re standing in a university," he said, his voice filled with awe. "An ancient university where they taught about the stars."


    : Tsukasa found his alma mater.


    : This episode: Tsukasa and the Temple of Doom. No snakes, please.


    Encouraged by the discovery, we spent hours in the chamber, each artifact providing a piece of the puzzle that was this ancient civilization''s understanding of the cosmos. The responsibility of preserving these findings dawned on us, a shared duty that transcended our initial adventure.


    Inside the ancient university, the air buzzed not just with the silent whispers of history but also with the palpable excitement of discovery. Tsukasa, feeling a surge of responsibility mixed with exhilaration, led the team deeper into the complexities of the celestial device at the chamber''s center.


    "This isn''t just an observatory or classroom," Tsukasa mused aloud, the nervous edge in his voice smoothed over by fascination. "It''s an interface between the cosmos and this island''s culture. They didn''t just study the stars; they lived by them."


    Kijin, examining a series of small, intricately designed metallic orbs, nodded in agreement. "These could be models of planets or teaching tools. Each one is marked with different glyphs that correspond to those on the device. They were teaching astrophysics here, or maybe something even more advanced."


    Raijuu, usually more interested in potential threats than historical artifacts, seemed unusually attentive to the orbs, sniffing them curiously and occasionally looking up at Tsukasa as if to confirm his findings were important.


    : Raijuu, the unexpected archaeologist. Good boy finds old balls.


    : If they find an ancient treat dispenser next, Raijuu stays forever.


    Tenko''s camera focused on the detailed craftsmanship of the orbs. "Imagine the knowledge that was shared here," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "And the people who walked these halls, scholars from different worlds, perhaps, brought together by their pursuit of understanding."


    As the day stretched into evening, the team set up temporary lights to continue their work. The chamber, illuminated by modern equipment, seemed to come alive, its shadows dancing on the walls as if reacting to the intrusion of light.


    "We should consider setting up a base camp here," Tsukasa suggested, looking around at the sprawling chamber. "There''s too much to catalog in one visit, and this place deserves our full attention."


    : Tsukasa''s turning into a full-blown nerd, and I''m here for it.


    : Set up camp in an ancient university? Semester at Sea just got outclassed.


    Kijin, who had been quiet, her focus split between the security of their perimeter and the artifacts, finally spoke up, her tone serious. "We need to make sure nothing we do here damages the site. This isn''t just about discovery; it''s about preservation."


    "Agreed," Tsukasa replied, nodding solemnly. "We''ll document everything meticulously and ensure that we leave it exactly as we found it, or better."


    As they prepared the area for extended study, Raijuu seemed to settle into his role as guardian of the site, his earlier restlessness giving way to a calm vigilance. The chat, always keen to provide their commentary, watched through Tenko''s continuous stream, their usual banter mixing with genuine appreciation for the team''s efforts.


    : History Channel''s got nothing on this. When''s the documentary coming out?


    : I bet Raijuu finds the secret to eternal youth here. Immortal doggo.


    The next few hours were spent in a detailed examination of the celestial device. Tsukasa, with Kijin''s help, managed to align several of the metallic orbs in a configuration that activated part of the mechanism. The device hummed to life, projecting a map of the night sky across the chamber ceiling, showing constellations that were no longer visible from Earth.


    "This map is ancient," Tsukasa said, his voice filled with awe. "It''s a snapshot of the sky from thousands of years ago. We could rewrite some of our history with this."


    : Tsukasa just saved his semester project. S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Those stars haven''t been seen for millennia. This room is a time machine.


    Their discovery sparked a flurry of activity, with each team member taking on specific tasks. Tenko documented the projections and compared them to modern star maps, while Kijin cataloged each artifact, linking them to different aspects of the celestial model.


    As night deepened, the team, energized by their unprecedented findings, planned their next steps. They discussed reaching out to experts and possibly bringing in a team of archaeologists to help with the preservation and study of the site.


    "We''re not just explorers anymore," Tsukasa reflected as they gathered their equipment. "We''re custodians of a legacy that spans beyond our current understanding. What we do next will help ensure that this knowledge isn''t lost again."


    The responsibility was immense, but so was the opportunity to contribute to human understanding of history and the cosmos. As they packed up their gear, ready to secure the site for the night, Tsukasa felt a profound connection to the past¡ªa link forged not just by discovery, but by the shared human endeavor to reach for the stars and beyond.


    "We''ll be back tomorrow," he promised, turning off the lights and securing the chamber. "There''s so much more to learn."


    And with that, they stepped out into the cool night, the spire behind them a silent sentinel in the darkness, guarding its secrets until they returned.

 Chapter 158 Beyond the Spire

    As we left the spire behind, its ancient silhouette fading into the distance, the weight of what we''d discovered pressed heavily on my shoulders. The morning sunlight felt sharp and intrusive, like the world outside was rushing to remind us of its normalcy¡ªsomething the spire had utterly disrupted.Raijuu trotted ahead, his tail swishing with satisfaction. His mood was contagious. For all the mind-boggling implications of the celestial alignments, the ancient devices, and whatever that last mechanism was, I had to admit: It felt good to breathe fresh air again.


    "Are we just going to ignore how insane that place was?" Kijin asked, adjusting the straps of her gear as she walked beside me.


    "Pretty sure that''s not possible," I replied. "But if you have any ideas on how to explain it to the Explorer Association without sounding like conspiracy theorists, let me know."


    Kijin grinned. "We''ll stick to the facts. No mentioning secret cosmic cults. Yet."


    Ahead of us, Asakawa was scrolling through her phone, her expression unusually focused. The light caught her face just right, making her look effortlessly composed even after days in a dungeon.


    : Asagao out here casually glowing. Queen behavior.


    : Someone screenshot this. Frame it. Worship it.


    : Tsukasa, you don''t deserve her presence.


    "Asagao, anything interesting?" I asked, trying to distract myself from how chat was definitely making me look bad in real-time.


    "Nothing unusual yet," she said, slipping her phone back into her pocket. "But once we report this, things are going to move fast. You ready for that?"


    "Are you ready to handle chat fawning over you for the millionth time?" I countered, earning a small, rare smile.


    Kijin cut in with a smirk. "Forget the Association; I''m more curious about how Grandma''s going to react. You calling her, or should I?"


    I sighed, already dreading the conversation. "I''ll handle it. But if she starts lecturing me about ancient curses, I''m putting her on speaker."


    The call to Grandma went about as well as I expected.


    "You found


    what


    ?" she asked sharply after my brief explanation. "And you didn''t break anything?"


    "Why does everyone assume I break things?" I muttered.


    "Because you do, Tsukasa. Now, what exactly are you planning to do with this discovery?"


    I glanced at the team for backup, but Kijin only gave me an unhelpful thumbs-up. Asakawa looked mildly amused, which somehow felt worse.


    "Take it to the Association, obviously," I said. "They''ll want a full report."


    Grandma''s pause on the other end of the line was unnervingly long. "Be careful, Tsukasa. You don''t know what kind of people this might attract. Not everyone values knowledge for the right reasons."


    : Grandma dropping truth bombs.


    : This is why we love her. No nonsense.


    : Someone get Tsukasa a notepad. He needs this wisdom.


    We reached the city by late afternoon, the familiar sights and sounds of bustling streets feeling oddly jarring after days of eerie silence. As we walked, Raijuu kept close to my side, his usual energy subdued¡ªhe probably sensed my growing tension about what lay ahead.


    "We should regroup at the caf¨¦," Asakawa suggested. "The others need to be brought up to speed before we contact the Association." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Our usual spot wasn''t fancy, but it was private enough for strategy sessions. Inside, the smell of coffee and pastries was a welcome change from stale dungeon air. Panda and Mimika were already there, surrounded by a chaotic sprawl of maps, notes, and half-eaten sandwiches.


    "Boss!" Panda called out, waving me over. His enthusiasm was as infectious as ever, though the nervous energy in his posture made it clear he wasn''t quite sure what to expect.


    "What happened?" Mimika asked, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Did you find something crazy?"


    "That''s one way to put it," I said, sliding into a chair. "Let''s just say the spire wasn''t your average dungeon."


    Kijin and Asakawa took turns breaking down the details, from the celestial device to the inscriptions that hinted at a civilization far beyond our understanding. The newbies listened with rapt attention, their expressions ranging from awe to mild panic.


    : Panda looks like he just realized he signed up for a cosmic horror movie.


    : Mimika''s ready to dive into the spire herself. Brave soul.


    Asakawa finished by pulling out a rough sketch of the celestial alignments we''d uncovered. "This is just the tip of the iceberg. If our theories are correct, this could redefine how we understand dungeons altogether."


    The table fell silent, the gravity of her words sinking in. Even chat seemed unusually quiet¡ªuntil someone inevitably broke the tension.


    : Or it''s just a fancy light show. Who knows?


    : Classic Asagao, making it all sound so cool.


    : Tsukasa, try not to break the actual iceberg when you find it.


    With the team updated and plans in place, we turned our attention to logistics. Asakawa, ever the planner, outlined the next steps with her usual efficiency.


    "First, we secure the site. Then, we contact the Association with a detailed report," she said. "And after that... we see where it takes us."


    "And by ''where it takes us,'' you mean more danger and chaos, right?" Panda asked nervously.


    "Welcome to dungeon exploration," Kijin said with a grin, clapping him on the back.


    As we wrapped up the meeting, my phone buzzed. The name on the screen made my stomach drop: Kamishiro Rion. The flood of messages that followed was predictably chaotic.


    "Yo, Tsu-kun! Saw your spire posts. Crazy stuff! ???? Let''s talk!"


    "Why haven''t you followed me back yet? Rude."


    "Also, I found something wild. You''re going to love it. Or hate it. Probably both."


    I groaned audibly, drawing curious looks from the team. "Rion''s back."


    "Of course she is," Kijin said, not even trying to hide her amusement.


    "What does she want this time?" Asakawa asked, though her tone suggested she already knew the answer.


    "She says it''s ''wild.'' Which probably means trouble," I muttered, already bracing myself for whatever chaos awaited.


    : Rion''s about to hijack the story. Buckle up, folks.


    : Poor Tsukasa. Can''t catch a break.


    With our immediate plans set, I decided to deal with Rion later. The spire report came first¡ªafter all, even Rion couldn''t outshine ancient cosmic mysteries.


    Probably.

 Chapter 159 Reporting the Unbelievable

    The Explorer''s Association building loomed over us like a modern fortress, its glass panels gleaming under the morning sun. Despite having been here countless times, today felt heavier¡ªlike the weight of the spire''s secrets had followed me out of the dungeon.Asakawa, walking beside me, kept glancing at her phone, her brow furrowed. "You''ve seen the trending tags, right?"


    "I haven''t," I admitted. "Too busy dealing with real-world consequences."


    "Well, UNKNOWN, Kisaragi Tsukasa, and Asagao are all trending right now," she said, tilting her screen toward me. "Also, there are conspiracy theories about you being a dungeon AI or an alien."


    I snorted. "An AI wouldn''t have to deal with student loans."


    Her laugh was short-lived as she scrolled further. "Still, this is big. Everyone''s talking about the spire. There''s even a hashtag about my stream¡ª#AsagaoSavedLives."


    I stopped in my tracks, rubbing the back of my neck. "That stream probably caused more chaos than it saved."


    "Hey, I didn''t mean for it to blow up like this!" she protested. "I was just trying to help."


    "I know. But now we''re here to clean up the mess."


    The Association''s lobby was a hive of activity, as usual. Explorers, researchers, and admin staff moved about with purpose, their conversations blending into a low hum. Despite the crowd, I could feel the occasional glance in my direction¡ªrecognition spreading faster than I''d anticipated.


    "Let''s get this over with," I muttered, leading the way to the reception desk.


    The clerk greeted us with a practiced smile. "Ah, Mr. Kisaragi. The branch chief is expecting you. Conference Room 3."


    "Thanks," I replied curtly, adjusting the strap of my bag.


    Asakawa nudged me. "You don''t have to be so grumpy. It''s not like they''re going to scold you."


    "They might scold you," I said, earning an exaggerated pout.


    The branch chief was already seated when we arrived, flipping through a tablet with a look that screamed "overtime-induced exhaustion." He barely glanced up as we entered.


    "Kisaragi. Asagao. Good work on the spire," he said, his tone more functional than friendly. "Though I see you''ve caused quite the stir online."


    I slid into the chair across from him. "If you''re about to lecture me about PR, don''t bother. I''ve already heard it from Grandma."


    "Lecture? No, no," he said with a dismissive wave. "If anything, the publicity might work in our favor. Public interest in dungeon exploration has been declining¡ªyour little stunt could reignite it."


    Asakawa perked up. "So you''re not mad about the stream?"


    "Let''s call it a double-edged sword," he said, his gaze sharp despite his casual tone. "The good news is, people are paying attention. The bad news? They''re paying attention to you. Expect a lot more scrutiny moving forward."


    "Great," I muttered. "Just what I needed."


    The chief chuckled, sliding his tablet across the table. "Speaking of scrutiny, your identity as UNKNOWN is no longer a secret. It''s trending everywhere."


    "I figured as much."


    "Any concerns?"


    "Not really. If anything, this simplifies things. Now I don''t have to explain why I keep disappearing from school."


    Asakawa snorted, earning a sharp look from the chief. "And you, Miss Asagao. Your stream was¡­ unconventional, but effective. The evacuation went smoother thanks to your efforts. Just don''t make a habit of live-streaming crises without consulting us first."


    She nodded sheepishly. "Got it. No more unplanned heroics."


    Outside, Asakawa leaned against the wall, her phone in hand as she scrolled through the endless notifications. "This is insane," she muttered. "People are messaging me non-stop. My friends, my fans¡­ even my old teachers are reaching out."


    I raised an eyebrow. "Your teachers?"


    "Yeah. One of them said they always knew I was destined for greatness." She rolled her eyes. "This is too much."


    "Welcome to my life," I said dryly.


    She shot me a look. "You don''t even check your messages." sea??h th§× N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Exactly."


    By the time we made it back to school, the whispers had already begun. Students clustered in small groups, their conversations halting as we passed. I kept my head down, hoping to make it to my seat without incident. Asakawa, on the other hand, seemed to thrive under the attention, waving and smiling like she was on a victory lap.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!" she said cheerfully as we reached our classroom.


    "Morning," I muttered, sliding into my seat. "Enjoying the spotlight?"


    "Not as much as you," she teased, gesturing to the growing crowd of curious onlookers. "You''re the talk of the school."


    "Lucky me."


    Before she could respond, another voice cut in. "Morning, Kisaragi-kun!"


    I looked up to see Nonohara Akari, one of Asakawa''s friends, grinning at me. "So, it''s true? You''re the mysterious UNKNOWN?"


    "Y-Yeah, I guess," I said, already regretting showing up today.


    Akari leaned closer, her expression turning curious. "Hey, do you think I could make it to the middle floors? I''ve been training a lot."


    Read latest chapters on empire


    "That¡­ depends," I said cautiously.


    "On what?"


    "On how much you like being alive."


    She blinked, then burst out laughing. "Wow, you''re blunt."


    "Not when it comes to dungeons," I replied.


    The morning dragged on, the weight of everyone''s stares growing heavier with each passing minute. By lunchtime, I was ready to bolt, but Asakawa had other plans.


    "Let''s eat in the cafeteria today," she said, dragging me along before I could protest.


    The cafeteria was no better. The moment we entered, conversations ceased, and all eyes turned to us. Asakawa, ever the extrovert, waved it off and led me to a table in the corner.


    "Relax," she said, unwrapping her lunch. "It''s not like they''re going to swarm you."


    "They might," I muttered.


    She laughed, but her expression softened. "Hey, you''re handling this better than I thought."


    "What''s that supposed to mean?"


    "Well, you''re not hiding in the library," she teased.


    "I''m considering it."


    Her laughter was warm, and for a moment, the tension eased. But as I glanced around the room, the whispers continued, reminding me that my life had taken a sharp turn into chaos.


    When the bell rang, signaling the end of lunch, I stood abruptly, eager to escape. But as I turned to leave, a familiar voice called out.


    "Kisaragi!"


    I froze, recognizing the sharp tone instantly. Turning slowly, I saw Ikemen-kun storming toward me, his face a mask of barely restrained anger.


    "I told you not to get cocky," he growled, kicking a desk as he approached.


    "Great. This guy again," I muttered.


    Before I could respond, Asakawa stepped between us, her expression calm but firm. "Kurihara-kun, you''re making a scene."


    He scowled. "Stay out of this, Asakawa. This is between me and him."


    "Actually, it''s between you and school policy," she said, gesturing to the damaged desk. "Vandalism''s a punishable offense, you know."


    Kurihara hesitated, his anger faltering under her sharp gaze. I took the opportunity to step around him, making my way to the door.


    "Let it go," I said over my shoulder. "You''re not worth the trouble."


    His shout followed me down the hall, but I didn''t bother looking back. Some fights just weren''t worth my time.

 Chapter 160 Whispers of the Forbidden

    The eerie silence of the Forbidden Floor was shattered by the growl that reverberated through the mist. The sound wasn''t just loud¡ªit was primal, resonating deep in my chest like the roar of some ancient predator. My fingers twitched, the weight of my blade suddenly feeling heavier. Raij¨± snarled in response, its electric arcs illuminating the thick black fog around us.Grandma, unfazed as ever, glanced at the team behind us. "Stay close. If you get separated, you won''t survive."


    Her words were blunt, but no one argued. Even the most seasoned S-rank explorers in the group tightened their grips on their weapons. This wasn''t a dungeon where ego had any place.


    "Do you recognize that sound?" I asked, keeping my voice low.


    "No," Grandma replied, her sharp gaze scanning the darkness. "But whatever it is, it''s hunting us."


    : This is straight out of a nightmare.


    : UNKNOWN better flex those EX-rank skills.


    : Raij¨± looks like it''s about to zap everything.


    I ignored the chat, focusing on the path ahead. The black mist seemed to move with purpose, curling and shifting as if alive. The faint glow of the dungeon walls barely pierced through, casting long shadows that played tricks on the eyes.


    "Raij¨±, scout ahead," I commanded.


    The lightning yokai leaped forward, its electric aura crackling against the mist. Grandma''s sharp eyes followed its movements, and I could tell she was analyzing every detail, every flicker of movement.


    "Be ready to summon Hashihime," she said. "If this thing attacks, we''ll need barriers."


    I nodded, already forming the spell in my mind. Hashihime wasn''t the most combat-effective shikigami, but her defensive capabilities were second to none. If something broke through her barriers, it wasn''t something we could fight head-on.


    We moved cautiously, the mist growing denser with every step. The growls came again, closer this time, and I felt the weight of a thousand unseen eyes watching us. My grip on the blade tightened, my palms slick with sweat.


    "Stop," Grandma ordered abruptly, raising a hand. Continue your adventure with empire


    The team froze. Even Akari, who had been quietly streaming from the back, lowered her camera. The air around us had shifted, growing colder and heavier.


    "What is it?" I asked.


    Grandma didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she pointed to a faint shimmer in the mist ahead. It was subtle, barely visible, but unmistakable¡ªa distortion in the air, like heat waves rising off asphalt.


    "A barrier," she said. "Powerful, too. It''s masking whatever''s beyond it."


    "Can we break through it?" one of the S-rank explorers asked.


    Grandma shook her head. "Breaking it would take too much time and energy. Kisaragi, this is where you come in."


    "Me?" I blinked, caught off guard.


    "You''re the only one here who''s dealt with Forbidden Floors directly. If there''s a way to bypass this barrier, you''ll sense it."


    Great. No pressure or anything.


    I stepped forward, summoning my magic. Closing my eyes, I let the energy flow through me, searching for any weaknesses in the barrier. The air around me pulsed with an almost sentient resistance, as if the barrier itself were alive.


    "There," I said, pointing to a spot where the mist seemed thinner, the distortion less pronounced. "That''s the weak point."


    Grandma nodded. "Good. Gozu, Mezu¡ªprotect the team. Hashihime, create a fallback barrier."


    I summoned Hashihime and the two guardian yokai, their towering forms appearing with a flash of light. Gozu and Mezu took defensive positions on either side of the team, while Hashihime raised her hand, creating a shimmering wall of energy behind us.


    "Let''s move," Grandma said.


    We passed through the weak point in the barrier, the air growing colder and heavier as we crossed the threshold. The mist thinned slightly, revealing a vast, open chamber. At its center stood a massive structure¡ªa black, crystalline spire that seemed to pulse with an eerie, otherworldly light.


    "That''s it," Grandma said, her voice uncharacteristically quiet. "The source."


    The spire was unlike anything I''d seen in a dungeon before. Its surface was smooth and reflective, but the light it emitted was chaotic, shifting in color and intensity like a heartbeat. It felt alive.


    "Raij¨±, stay close," I murmured.


    The yokai returned to my side, its electric aura flickering uneasily. Even it could sense the unnatural energy emanating from the spire.


    : What is that thing?


    : This is way beyond normal dungeon stuff.


    : UNKNOWN, don''t touch it!


    For once, I agreed with the chat.


    Grandma stepped closer, her eyes narrowing as she studied the spire. "It''s a core, but¡­ different. Bigger. More powerful."


    "Can we destroy it?" I asked.


    "Possibly," she said, her tone grim. "But doing so might destabilize the entire floor. Maybe the whole dungeon."


    "And if we leave it alone?"


    She didn''t answer. The unspoken truth was clear¡ªleaving the spire intact wasn''t an option. Whatever this thing was, it was too dangerous to ignore.


    Before we could decide on our next move, the growl came again, louder and deeper than before. From the shadows around the spire, multiple sets of glowing red eyes emerged. The creatures stepped into the light, revealing themselves to be massive, wolf-like beasts with obsidian-black fur and razor-sharp fangs.


    "Guardian monsters," Grandma said, drawing her weapon. "They won''t let us near the core."


    I summoned ¨­mukade, the massive centipede yokai towering above us. "I''ll handle the big ones. Can you take the left flank?"


    Grandma smirked. "Try to keep up, boy."


    As the first wolf charged, ¨­mukade lunged forward, its segmented body coiling around the beast and crushing it with brutal force. On the left flank, Grandma moved with deadly precision, her blade slicing through another wolf like a hot knife through butter.


    The team behind us held their ground, fending off smaller wolves that darted toward the rear. Akari, ever the opportunist, kept her camera rolling, capturing every moment.


    : Is this a boss fight?


    : Grandma is terrifying.


    : ¨­mukade is so OP!


    "Focus!" I snapped, slicing through another wolf with a mana-infused strike.


    The battle raged on, the wolves relentless in their assault. But for every beast that fell, another seemed to take its place. The spire pulsed brighter, as if feeding off the chaos.


    "This isn''t sustainable," I muttered, summoning Kama-itachi to clear a path.


    "Then stop playing defense," Grandma said, her blade glowing with magic. "Go for the core."


    "But¡ª"


    "Now, Kisaragi!"


    Her command left no room for argument. Taking a deep breath, I charged toward the spire, dodging and weaving through the chaos. Raij¨± leaped ahead of me, clearing a path with bolts of lightning. The spire loomed closer, its energy growing more oppressive with every step.


    I raised my blade, preparing to strike. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    And then the ground beneath me shattered.


    The floor splintered like glass beneath my feet, plunging me into darkness. I barely managed to summon Hashihime in time, her protective barrier enveloping me as I fell. The air grew colder, sharper, the oppressive energy from the spire now wrapping around me like a suffocating blanket.


    "Tsukasa!" Grandma''s voice echoed faintly from above, but the roar of collapsing rock drowned out any further words.


    I hit the ground hard, the impact knocking the wind out of me. Hashihime''s barrier had absorbed most of the fall, but the landing still left me disoriented. Gritting my teeth, I pushed myself up, scanning my surroundings. The cavern I''d fallen into was enormous, illuminated by the same eerie light as the spire above. But here, the light felt heavier, more concentrated, and the oppressive energy was almost tangible.


    Raij¨± appeared beside me, its fur sparking with unease. "Stay close," I muttered, gripping my blade tightly. "We''re not alone."


    The sound of claws scraping against stone confirmed my suspicion. From the shadows, creatures began to emerge¡ªsmaller than the wolves above but no less menacing. These were humanoid, with elongated limbs and glowing eyes that radiated malice. Their movements were jerky, unnatural, as if they were puppets controlled by an unseen force.


    "Hashihime, hold the line," I commanded, summoning her barrier again. The yokai''s spectral form shimmered into existence, her barrier forming a protective dome around me and Raij¨±.


    The creatures hesitated, their glowing eyes fixated on the barrier. For a moment, it seemed they wouldn''t dare cross it. Then the spire''s pulse intensified, and one of the creatures lunged forward, smashing into the barrier with a sickening crack.


    Hashihime''s barrier held, but the force of the impact sent a shiver through the ground. The other creatures followed suit, clawing and pounding at the barrier in a frenzy. It wouldn''t hold forever.


    "¨­mukade!" I called, summoning the massive centipede. The yokai burst forth, its segmented body coiling protectively around the barrier. With a guttural screech, it lashed out, its powerful mandibles tearing into the attacking creatures.


    The chat, still active on my phone''s screen, buzzed with commentary.


    : Did he just fall through the floor?


    : This is why you don''t play solo, man.


    : ¨­mukade MVP as always.


    I ignored the chat, focusing on the fight. Despite ¨­mukade''s efforts, the creatures kept coming, their numbers seemingly endless. The spire''s pulsing light grew brighter with each passing moment, and I could feel its energy pulling at me, beckoning me closer.


    "We can''t keep this up," I muttered, summoning Gashadokuro. The skeletal giant materialized with a deafening roar, its massive hands slamming into the ground to crush the advancing creatures. But even Gashadokuro''s overwhelming presence wasn''t enough to stem the tide.


    Raij¨± growled, its lightning sparking erratically. It was as if the spire''s energy was affecting even my shikigami, their usual precision and strength faltering under its oppressive influence.


    I needed to act. Fast.


    Taking a deep breath, I dispelled Hashihime''s barrier and pointed my blade toward the spire. "Raij¨±, ¨­mukade, cover me."


    The yokai obeyed without hesitation, their attacks intensifying as I sprinted toward the spire. The creatures swarmed around me, but Raij¨±''s lightning and ¨­mukade''s crushing blows carved a path through the chaos.


    As I approached the spire, the oppressive energy became almost unbearable. My vision blurred, and my legs felt like lead, but I forced myself forward. The spire''s surface was smooth and cold, its black crystal glowing with an otherworldly light.


    I raised my blade, channeling my magic into its edge. "Let''s see what you''re hiding," I muttered, slashing at the spire with all my strength.


    The impact sent a shockwave through the cavern, and for a moment, everything went still. Then the spire cracked, its light flaring brightly before dimming. The creatures around me froze, their glowing eyes flickering like dying embers.


    "Did that¡­ work?" I whispered, lowering my blade.


    Before I could catch my breath, the ground began to quake violently. The spire''s light returned, brighter and more erratic than before. Cracks spread across its surface, and a deep, guttural roar echoed through the cavern.


    "Of course not," I muttered, stepping back as the spire shattered.


    From its core emerged a massive, serpentine creature, its body composed of the same black crystal as the spire. Its eyes glowed with a malevolent light, and its roar shook the very air.


    "Raij¨±, get ready," I said, summoning Kama-itachi to my side. "This just got a whole lot worse."


    The serpent lunged, its crystal fangs aiming straight for me. Raij¨± intercepted it with a bolt of lightning, while Kama-itachi''s razor-sharp winds carved into its body. But the serpent barely flinched, its movements fluid and relentless.


    : Boss fight time!


    : Is this the Forbidden Floor''s guardian?


    : UNKNOWN better not die on us now.


    "Not planning on it," I muttered, charging forward to join the fight. Whatever this creature was, it wasn''t going down without a fight¡ªand neither was I.


    I darted to the side as the serpent''s crystalline tail came crashing down, obliterating the ground where I had stood moments ago. The sheer force of its attack sent shards of crystal and dust flying in all directions. Raij¨± snarled, leaping onto the serpent''s back and unleashing a surge of electricity into its crystalline hide. Sparks danced across its surface, illuminating the cavern in erratic flashes, but the beast didn''t slow.


    "Kama-itachi, focus on its weak points!" I yelled, summoning a flurry of wind slashes aimed at the serpent''s glowing eyes. The weasel-like shikigami obeyed, its crescent-shaped wind blades striking true and forcing the serpent to recoil with an ear-splitting screech.


    "¨­mukade, pin its tail!" I commanded, summoning the centipede to anchor the serpent''s rear. With a screech of its own, ¨­mukade lunged forward, coiling its massive body around the serpent''s tail and sinking its mandibles into the crystalline surface.


    The serpent thrashed wildly, trying to free itself from ¨­mukade''s grip. With its movements restricted, I seized the opportunity to strike. Channeling magic into my blade, I dashed toward the beast''s exposed flank and slashed with all my might. The impact sent cracks rippling through its crystal hide, but the serpent''s roar told me I''d only succeeded in angering it.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me," I muttered, jumping back as the serpent unleashed a burst of energy from its core. The shockwave sent me sprawling, and I barely had time to roll to my feet before the serpent lunged at me again.


    Raij¨± intercepted it once more, its lightning surging into the serpent''s open maw. The attack bought me a moment to regroup, but the serpent''s resilience was becoming a problem.


    : This thing is insane!


    : Is UNKNOWN even making a dent?


    : ¨­mukade looks like it''s hanging on for dear life.


    : Raij¨± is MVP again.


    I wiped the sweat from my brow, glancing at the chat on my phone''s screen. The commentary was unhelpful as always, but at least it reminded me that people were watching. I couldn''t afford to lose here¡ªnot with the world''s attention on the Forbidden Floor.


    "Kama-itachi, cover me!" I shouted, summoning another flurry of wind blades to distract the serpent. As the creature recoiled, I summoned Gashadokuro, pouring as much magic as I could into the skeletal giant.


    The massive shikigami emerged with a deafening roar, its glowing eyes locking onto the serpent. Gashadokuro raised one of its enormous hands and brought it crashing down onto the serpent''s body, pinning it to the ground. The impact sent tremors through the cavern, and for a moment, I thought we might have the upper hand.


    But the serpent wasn''t done yet. Its crystalline body glowed brighter, and with a burst of energy, it shattered Gashadokuro''s grip and sent the skeletal giant staggering backward. The serpent coiled tightly, its glowing eyes locked onto me.


    "This is getting ridiculous," I muttered, summoning Hashihime for support. Her barrier shimmered into existence just as the serpent lunged, its fangs bouncing off the protective shield. The yokai''s calm, unyielding presence gave me a moment to think.


    "Okay, think, Tsukasa," I muttered to myself. "The spire was its core. It''s connected to this thing. If I can sever that connection¡­"


    My eyes darted to the remnants of the spire, where faint traces of its chaotic energy still lingered. If I could disrupt whatever link the serpent had to the spire, it might weaken the beast enough for a decisive blow.


    "Raij¨±, Kama-itachi, distract it!" I ordered, sprinting toward the shattered remains of the spire. The two shikigami obeyed without hesitation, their combined efforts keeping the serpent occupied as I reached the glowing remnants.


    The energy radiating from the shards was almost unbearable, but I forced myself to focus. Channeling my magic, I created a barrier around the shards, isolating their energy. The serpent immediately reacted, its thrashing growing more frantic as it sensed the disruption.


    "That''s it," I muttered, pouring more magic into the barrier. "Let''s see how you like fighting without your power source."


    The serpent''s glow dimmed, its movements becoming sluggish. Raij¨±''s lightning strikes and Kama-itachi''s wind blades began to leave visible damage, and even ¨­mukade''s mandibles started to crack through its crystalline hide.


    "Gashadokuro, finish it!" I shouted, summoning the skeletal giant once more.


    With a guttural roar, Gashadokuro raised both hands and brought them down onto the serpent''s head, crushing it into the ground. The creature let out one final, ear-splitting screech before its body shattered into countless shards, the glowing fragments fading into nothingness.


    : HE DID IT!!!


    : That was insane!


    : Gashadokuro for the win!


    : Raij¨±''s MVP as always.


    : UNKNOWN is unstoppable!


    I collapsed to my knees, gasping for breath as the adrenaline began to fade. The cavern was silent now, the oppressive energy finally dissipating. Raij¨± and the other shikigami disappeared one by one, their energy spent.


    I glanced at the remnants of the spire, now completely dark. Whatever power had fueled the serpent was gone, but the spire''s existence raised more questions than answers.


    "Forbidden Floor, huh?" I muttered to myself, standing shakily. "I don''t think I''ll ever get used to this."


    : Tsukasa, you okay?


    : Don''t die on us, man.


    : Take a breather, you''ve earned it.


    "Yeah, yeah, I''m fine," I muttered, pocketing my phone. "Thanks for the concern, I guess."


    Now came the hard part¡ªfiguring out what the Explorer Association would make of all this. With the spire gone, I had no proof of what had transpired here, save for the shattered shards and the memories burned into my mind.


    I started making my way back to the surface, one thought lingering in my mind: if this was just one Forbidden Floor, what else was out there?

 Chapter 1 - 1: The Reluctant Explorer

    "Taking on a request in the middle of a weekday¡­ Ugh, what a pain in the butt."


    It''s been about 70 years since these fantasy-like dungeons started appearing all over the world. At least, that''s what they taught us in World History A, which focuses on modern times. Honestly, I don''t really get it. They should just make a separate class called Dungeon History or something. Not that it matters to me since I barely pay attention in class anyway.


    Apparently, it''s been about 70 years since humanity first started conquering dungeons. But for someone like me, who just explores dungeons to get by, it''s all irrelevant¡­ or at least, it should be. I might''ve learned something about it in a training seminar or whatever, but I was too shocked by how few people were actually paying attention to remember any of it.


    "Good job out there!"


    "Great work, as always!"


    "You''re amazing!"


    As I emerge from the dungeon back to the surface, I''m greeted by a swarm of overly polite Dungeon Association staff. They seem a bit tense, though. I mean, come on, I''m just a high school student. They could be a little more casual with me. But if I told them that, they''d probably just freak out and apologize, so whatever.


    I get it; they''re public servants. It''s part of the job.


    "EX-Rank Explorer, UNKNOWN, returning!"


    "¡­So embarrassing."


    "Right this way, please. The branch manager is expecting you."


    Ugh, it''s so cringy. I should really change my registered name. Why did I submit it blank two years ago? And why do they insist on calling me by my explorer name? I''d much prefer if they just used my real name.


    "Hey, hey! That was fast again, huh?"


    "I just like to get work done quickly."


    "We really appreciate it, Tsukasa Kisaragi."


    "¡­Thanks."


    As I enter the room, I''m greeted by a young man with a suspiciously friendly smile. He stands up immediately and offers me a handshake. I take it, but seriously, that forced business smile is more like a creepy stalker grin.


    "I knew you were the right person for the job. All the other reliable explorers were busy, and if I sent in someone mediocre and they failed, it''d be on me."


    "Yeah, sure. But calling a student out in the middle of a weekday like it''s no big deal¡­ Not cool, man."


    "Don''t worry about it. That''s why you''re enrolled in a private high school with a more flexible schedule, right?"


    "Actually, I got my explorer license after I started high school."


    Is this guy even listening to himself? At first, I thought he was just flattering me, but now it''s clear he''s just talking nonsense. And I''m not impressed. It''s basically like having a high schooler do an adult''s job. Even if I am an EX-rank explorer, there are limits, you know? I could sue this guy for exploiting me.


    No wonder they''re always short-staffed.


    Not that complaining in my head is going to solve the staffing issue. And this guy is just another cog in the machine of the Dungeon Association, probably struggling in his own way. Not that I trust his sketchy smile, though.


    "I''ll make sure the payment is transferred to your account, so rest easy."


    "Thanks."


    "Haha¡­ With that much money, you could probably buy whatever you want, huh?"


    "Maybe¡­ Yeah, I guess so."


    "You''re so humble."


    "If you think this is humble, you might want to see a doctor or visit the labor board."


    The Dungeon Association really thinks money solves everything. They should be questioning the fact that they''re making a high schooler work. Yeah, I agreed to it when I became EX-rank, but still.


    Ugh¡­ This is such a pain. I wish there was someone else who could take on my jobs, so I could just relax, go to school, and sleep soundly at home. Can''t a new EX-rank explorer just show up already?


    Since dungeons started appearing around the world, human life has supposedly changed drastically. Supposedly, because I was born after dungeons and society became intertwined, so I have no idea what life was like before.


    Dungeons are filled with resources essential for human survival. Whether it''s rare metals or exotic foods no one''s ever tasted, dungeons are a goldmine. But the main attraction is the magic stones you can get from defeating the monsters inside.


    Yeah¡­ Dungeons are full of monsters. These grotesque creatures that used to only exist in stories drop magic stones when you kill them¡ªor sometimes they don''t. Anyway, a few decades ago, some genius figured out how to use these stones for energy or something. I don''t really get the technical stuff.


    After that, countries around the world started pouring all their resources into conquering dungeons. At first, they couldn''t handle monsters that bullets didn''t even scratch, but eventually, kids started being born with something they called "magic power." Nobody knows why, but it turns out you can fight monsters if you have magic power.


    So naturally, governments started rounding up anyone who had it.


    It''s been decades since dungeons first appeared, but to be honest, the world''s kind of stagnated. The reason is simple: dungeon conquests have pretty much stalled. They say there are about 500 dungeons worldwide, but less than 20 have been cleared all the way to the final floor. That''s less than 4%.


    The reason for the slow progress is that there are fewer people trying to conquer dungeons. And by that, I mean there are fewer people aiming for the final floor, not just those going in to make a quick buck. Nowadays, those who try are seen as thrill-seeking fools or reckless idiots.


    I''ve rambled on, but the gist is that dungeons exist, and while there were some benefits to conquering them at first, now we don''t need to reach the final floor to solve the energy crisis or keep the economy running. So, there''s no demand for it anymore.


    It''s a tough world¡­ We finally solved the energy crisis, but now there''s no progress.


    "...Sigh."


    I let out a sigh as I look at the money in my bank account. It''s not like I don''t have enough. I''ve got assets worth tens of times what a regular salaryman makes in a lifetime. But I don''t have anything to spend it on, and honestly, I''d trade it all for a more laid-back life.


    I''m earning a lot, but I''m also spending it, trying to keep the economy moving. My place is pretty high-end, and I own multiple properties and land in Tokyo, Japan''s capital. I even bought a top-of-the-line PC just for fun and dine at fancy restaurants once a week. But the thing is, Japan''s economy is a joke. The more money you have, the more it just keeps piling up.


    Plus, since I regularly dive into dungeons, I make more than I spend. Even after taxes, I could easily live a life of luxury.


    "It''s not like having too much money is a problem, but this isn''t exactly a typical high schooler''s dilemma¡­"


    Even though I make good money in dungeons, I''ve always thought that a higher education couldn''t hurt, so I''m attending a private high school that''s better than average. But between school and all the requests I get from the Dungeon Association, I''m barely scraping by on attendance. The season when everyone''s talking about summer break is almost here, but I''m always working.


    If anything, I get more requests during the break.


    My homeroom teacher, who knows my situation, says I should just become a full-time explorer after graduation instead of going to college. Despite being a high schooler, I was already a socially awkward loner, and thanks to all the work, I can''t even make it to school half the time. I don''t have any friends, and of course, no girlfriend or anyone I''m interested in.


    I hardly go to school, so I don''t even know any girls my age.


    I''ve got money, but does that make me a winner or a loser in life? I can''t really tell.


    I don''t have any parents or a proper guardian, so I guess I could live however I want¡­ But I don''t even have the energy for that anymore. I''m starting to sound like a burned-out office worker, but I really miss the days when I could just explore dungeons without a care in the world.


    If only I''d made more of an effort to make friends or find a party when I first became an explorer¡­ Would I be living a more fun life now? Nah, no way¡­ A socially awkward loner like me couldn''t pull that off.


    Thinking about impossible things is stressing me out¡­ Maybe I''ll blow off some steam in a dungeon.


    The dungeon I chose to blow off steam in is the "Shibuya Dungeon," the closest one to both my house and school. Actually, I mostly operate around this dungeon.


    The Shibuya Dungeon is located in Tokyo, Japan''s capital. It''s a famous dungeon, both for its difficulty and for its convenient location, attracting a lot of challengers. Even with all those people diving in, though, it still hasn''t been fully cleared.


    The dungeon is an underground labyrinth right beneath Shibuya Station. People often wonder why it had to appear in a place that''s already a maze to navigate. The dungeon entrance and the Dungeon Association''s branch office are located at the deepest part of Shibuya Station¡­ Seriously, who thought it was a good idea to build a dungeon under a dungeon?


    Not that anyone knows who or why these dungeons were created anyway. It''s an eternal mystery.


    "Today, I''m challenging the lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon for the first time!"


    As I delve into the dungeon to blow off steam, I hear a loud voice echoing from a distance. Lately, I''ve been seeing people like this talking to themselves in dungeons¡­ What the heck are they doing? Talking to yourself in a dungeon just attracts monsters. It''s not like anything good comes from it.


    "They say the lower floors are uncharted territory, but I''ll be fine! There aren''t many people streaming from the lower floors of Shibuya Dungeon, so I know you''re all curious!"


    I catch the words about challenging the lower floors. Dungeons are categorized by their floors, and the areas explorers can access are determined by their "Explorer Rank."


    The terminology varies by dungeon and country, but in Japan''s Shibuya Dungeon, the floors are divided as follows: Floors 1-10 are the Top Floors, 11-20 are the Upper Floors, 21-40 are the Mid Floors, 41-60 are the Lower Floors, and anything beyond Floor 61 is the Deep Floors. So right now, I''m standing at the boundary between the Mid Floors and the Lower Floors, which is Floor 40.


    "Alright, let''s go! You''re all witnesses to history in the making¡ªjust kidding!"


    While I''m thinking random thoughts, at my feet is a beast that looks like a wolf, yawning lazily with its yellow fur swaying. Just like its master, this creature seems pretty relaxed here at the bottom of the Mid Floors. It''s probably because we can easily handle the monsters in this area.


    Seriously, this wolf looks even more bored than I am. It was just fighting monsters a minute ago, and now it''s acting like it''s got nothing to do.


    "Ready to head back?" Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    In response to my question, the wolf purrs and closes its eyes, but then it suddenly perks up, sensing something, and dashes straight towards the stairs leading to the Lower Floors.


    Honestly, I don''t think it''s cool for a shikigami to just run off without its master, but I''ve known this one the longest out of all my shikigami, so I guess it''s fine¡­ At this point, it''s basically like having a pet dog.


    "Guess I''ve got no choice¡­"


    Even so, I can''t just leave my shikigami unattended, so I start following it at a leisurely pace. It''s the middle of a weekday, so this is probably the time when there are the fewest people in the dungeon. Even if a yellow wolf is running around, it probably won''t draw much attention.


    I mean, there are way more monstrous-looking creatures in this dungeon, and beyond the Lower Floors, it''s basically a den of horrors. If someone catches a glimpse of my shikigami, no big deal. We''ll manage somehow.


    Little did I know that this laid-back attitude would lead to all sorts of trouble later on. But at that moment, as I yawned and walked, I had no way of predicting any of it.

 Chapter 2 - 2: Dungeon Streamer Asagao

    In recent years, the hottest trend in both dungeon exploration and everyday society has been dungeon streamers.


    Dungeon streamers are individuals who use magically powered cameras, designed to follow a specified target, to film and broadcast their adventures inside dungeons. Lately, these streamers have gained popularity by live streaming their dungeon exploits, similar to game streamers, showing real-time dungeon raids and battles.


    Though dungeons have become an integral part of human society, surprisingly few people actually know what goes on inside them. Sure, schools teach that dungeons provide valuable resources, but the reality is that entering one often means risking your life against deadly monsters. Even those with exceptional magical abilities can meet a quick end if they let their guard down.


    Not many are willing to take that chance.


    And that''s exactly why dungeon streaming became such a hit with the general public.


    Even though people learn about dungeons and their resources in school, no one truly knows the details because media outlets can''t just waltz in and film inside. Dungeon streamers, however, capture the gritty, dangerous reality of dungeons, including crucial strategy insights and intense combat footage. Naturally, the demand for this thrilling content has skyrocketed.


    Viewers, bored with their mundane lives, find an escape in the adrenaline-fueled streams.


    As soon as one person found success, it was only a matter of time before hordes of others followed suit, seeking fame and fortune through ads and donations in the world of dungeon streaming.


    But as more and more people jumped into dungeon streaming, viewers became spread out. So, streamers started pushing the envelope, trying new things.


    Unlike with game streaming, where streamers might play niche games to stand out, dungeon streamers took a different route. They began competing to see who could delve the deepest into the dungeons. At first, most streams were from the top floors, but soon they ventured into the upper floors, mid floors, and eventually the lower floors.


    This ultimately led to a stagnation in dungeon streaming.


    The reason was simple:


    The monsters in the mid and lower floors were on a completely different level.


    One day, a popular streamer who had been fighting on the frontlines of the mid floors got cocky and ventured into the lower floors during a live stream¡ªonly to die in front of thousands of viewers. His overconfidence led to his demise as he was instantly reduced to a pile of meat by the more powerful monsters.


    Since that incident, dungeon streamers have been stuck on the mid floors.


    Initially, governments welcomed dungeon streaming with open arms, hoping it would lead to more resources entering the country. But after the incident where a popular streamer died in the lower floors, stricter regulations were imposed on dungeon exploration. This led to the creation of the "Explorer Rank" system, which dictates how deep one can venture into a dungeon.


    Years have passed since the introduction of the Explorer Rank, and dungeon streaming has continued to stagnate.


    Popular dungeon streamer "Asagao" had reached the bottom of the mid floors. For a dungeon streamer, this was the ultimate limit.


    Since the death of that popular streamer years ago, no one had dared to venture into the lower floors during a live stream. It was a matter of both rank and survival.


    "Alright, everyone¡­ I''ve finally been recognized as a C-Rank Explorer! So today, I''m going to challenge the forbidden territory for streamers¡­ I''m heading into the lower floors of the ''Shibuya Dungeon'' for the first time!"


    Chat:


    : Is she gonna be okay?


    : I''m kinda worried¡­


    : She''s been handling the mid floors just fine, though.


    : ¡ü You''re underestimating the dungeon, noob.


    : If it''s the Shibuya Dungeon''s lower floors, she might manage.


    : She''s got this.


    : If Asagao can''t do it, no streamer can! lol


    : The lower floors are seriously unknown territory.


    Asagao brushed a lock of her black hair out of her face as she glanced at the chat comments scrolling by on her wrist-mounted device, separate from the magic stone camera that was filming her. Seeing the mix of concern and curiosity, she couldn''t help but chuckle.


    "They say the lower floors are uncharted territory, but I''ll be fine! Hardly anyone''s streamed from the lower floors of Shibuya Dungeon, so I know you''re all curious, right?"


    Chat:


    : Yeah, can''t deny that.


    : I''m curious!


    : I mean¡­ yeah, who wouldn''t be?


    Even though some viewers expressed concern, the allure of the lower floors was undeniable. Statistically speaking, more than half of all explorers never make it past the top floors, so the lower floors are like a distant dream.


    Asagao, with her extraordinary reflexes, easily kept up with the fast-flowing chat as she smiled at the screen.


    "See? You guys are curious too. So no backing out, okay?"


    Chat:


    : Okayyy¡­


    : I''m still worried, though.


    : Just don''t get hurt!


    : Even if you enter the lower floors, just retreat to the mid floors ASAP.


    "Alright then, let''s go! You''re all witnesses to history in the making¡ªjust kidding!"


    Chat:


    : Cute!


    : So adorable!


    : Too cute, I''m dead.


    : Is she not the cutest?


    Asagao, a current high school girl, had gained immense popularity thanks to her good looks and her unparalleled skills as an explorer. While other streamers needed teams to conquer the mid floors, she did it solo. Even among professional explorers, few could pull off such a feat.


    Chat:


    : But at this point, isn''t dungeon exploring more profitable than streaming?


    : No doubt about it.


    : If you''re risking your life, it better be worth it.


    Dungeon streamers rarely ventured past the mid floors, not only because of the increased danger but also because by that point, they could make a comfortable living. With the money they earned, there was little incentive to risk their lives in the lower floors. However, Asagao simply smiled at the comments.


    "But where''s the fun in that?"


    Chat:


    : This girl''s got a dungeon addiction.


    : It''s like she''s hooked on it.


    : But I heard the number of explorers is decreasing.


    : Yeah, you''ve gotta reach the mid floors to cover your expenses.


    : Equipment is way too expensive.


    : But I don''t wanna die, though.


    : At that point, being a corporate slave seems better.


    Asagao knew from the comments that she was one of the outliers. Risking your life just for money was the mark of a madman. As a result, modern people, with their focus on stability, tended to steer clear of becoming dungeon explorers.


    But while modern society gravitated towards stability, the infrastructure that kept the country running relied heavily on magic stones for energy and products. This was why the government didn''t just allow but actually encouraged dungeon streaming, despite its dangers. They hoped it would inspire more people to consider becoming dungeon explorers in the future.


    Asagao, however, was in the dungeons purely to satisfy her own curiosity. Her willingness to risk her life as a high school girl made her seem unhinged to most. But her viewers knew how much resolve and dedication she had put into her dungeon exploration, which was why they kept coming back to support her¡ªeven when she was on the brink of death.


    "Kuh!"


    Chat:


    : Are you okay!?


    : This is bad.


    : Run, run!


    : Told you, the lower floors are no joke!


    : Is this the end for another popular streamer?


    : That''s what happens when you underestimate the dungeon.


    As Asagao descended the stairs from the mid floors to the lower floors, an area where almost no streamer dared to go, she started the stream with her usual upbeat demeanor. But as she ventured deeper, her confidence began to fade, and she spoke less and less.


    By the time she reached the first level of the lower floors, Floor 41, Asagao was already sensing the danger to her life. Her once-beautiful black hair was matted with her own dark, red blood, and the special material of her black robe was torn in several places.


    The chat was moving faster than ever, filled with people genuinely concerned for her safety, rubberneckers looking for drama, and trolls who had come to mock the possibility of someone dying live on stream. But Asagao had no time to keep up with the chat.


    "¡­It''s not following me?"


    Chat:


    : Looks like it''s not.


    : You should head back to the mid floors!


    : Running back to the mid floors while being chased by a monster is bad etiquette, though.


    : But they say it''s okay if you''re in mortal danger.


    : They covered that in the explorer training.


    : Lol, dungeon noobs in the chat.


    : Just get out of there already!


    Confirming that there were no monsters nearby, Asagao glanced at the chat before looking down at the broken spear she had relied on since she was a beginner.


    As a solo explorer, Asagao had no one to help her, no assistants, and no spare weapons.


    "Can I make it back to the mid floors with just magic?"


    Chat:


    : Take it slow and keep yourself safe.


    : Just try not to get into any more fights and stay low.


    : Use your ears, not your eyes, to detect enemies and move carefully.


    Reading the advice from what seemed to be veteran explorers in the chat, Asagao crouched low and started walking along the wall, trying to keep a low profile.


    Weak from blood loss and slightly unsteady on her feet, Asagao managed to find the stairs leading back to the mid floors, relying on her memory to avoid getting spotted by monsters.


    Chat:


    : Yes, let''s get out of here.


    : Hurry back to the top floors!


    : There might be people at the bottom of the mid floors!


    : Conserve your magic as much as possible.


    "¡­!"


    As soon as she spotted the stairs and let her guard down, Asagao suddenly sensed a presence behind her. She instinctively dove forward, not even thinking about how to land safely. As a searing pain shot through her back, she glared back and saw a half-transparent skeleton knight standing there.


    Chat:


    : A monster!?


    : Run!


    : Is that a skeleton?


    : This is really bad!


    "Gah!"


    Asagao tried to gather the strength to run, but when she saw blood dripping from the skeleton''s sword, she realized that she had been slashed across the back.


    She no longer had the stamina to run, nor the willpower to escape. Her magic reserves were nearly depleted, and the desperate fire spell she cast merely passed through the skeleton''s transparent body.


    "¡­Meeting a new monster in this situation¡­ I really have no luck."


    Chat:


    : Don''t give up!


    : She''s done for.


    : Came here from trending #1 ^^


    : Nooo!


    : Aaaahhh! Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The viewers could sense the impending doom in Asagao''s muttered words.


    The skeleton''s hollow eyes showed no emotion, only the intent to kill the human before it.


    Asagao, having resigned herself to her fate, pulled the floating camera closer with a self-deprecating smile.


    "I can''t stream something this gruesome, so I guess it''s time to end the stream¡­"


    Chat:


    : Don''t!


    : Run!


    : Someone go help her!


    : But no one can reach the lower floors¡­


    : Please survive!


    : No, no, no!


    "¡­Goodbye."


    As Asagao quietly whispered her farewell, her hand, weakened by exhaustion, failed to end the stream as it dropped limply to her side. As the cold sensation crept up from her extremities, she couldn''t help but smile.


    Just as the skeleton raised its sword, a crackling sound pierced the air, and a yellow wolf appeared, blasting the skeleton into oblivion. Shocked, Asagao''s eyes widened as she watched the wolf with a symbol on its forehead lick her wounds and howl.


    "Where did you run off to¡­? Oh, there you are¡ªwait, is she dead? No¡­ she''s alive, right? You followed the scent of blood? You scared me, Raijuu."


    "Woof!"


    "Yeah, yeah, I get it. I''ll help her, so stop barking so much."


    Asagao''s consciousness faded away to the sound of a voice that seemed far too carefree for a place as deadly as the lower floors.

 Chapter 3 - 3: Thread 1: Streaming Drama

    217: Anonymous Explorer


    Did she die?


    218: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, the stream hasn''t even stopped.


    219: Anonymous Explorer


    Not exactly a laughing matter, though¡­


    220: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone should go help her. She''ll definitely fall for you if you save her!


    221: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾220


    Like anyone''s going to the lower floors! You trying to get someone killed?!


    222: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾220


    This place is full of idiots who think they''re the strongest explorers.


    223: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ve got some weirdos here, huh?


    224: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course, we do. A popular streamer''s on the brink of death, and it''s trending #1 on social media.


    225: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like help arrived.


    226: Anonymous Explorer


    In the lower floors? Probably not another streamer, then.


    227: Anonymous Explorer


    Obviously not, lol.


    228: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care who it is, as long as they save Asagao!


    229: Anonymous Explorer


    Hopefully, she learned her lesson and stays out of the lower floors from now on.


    230: Anonymous Explorer


    The lower floors aren''t a joke. No way a streamer just playing around can clear them.


    231: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾230


    Oh look, a self-proclaimed dungeon expert.


    232: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾231


    Don''t feed the trolls. Just ignore them.


    233: Anonymous Explorer


    Are there really no streamers who can reach the lower floors?


    234: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾233


    Definitely none.


    235: Anonymous Explorer


    Whoever saved her looks like a monster, lol.


    I guess even monsters save people these days.


    236: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾233


    Asagao couldn''t do it, so it''s probably impossible.


    237: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾234


    £¾£¾236


    What about Kamishiro Rion?


    238: Anonymous Explorer


    Can we even call her a streamer?


    239: Anonymous Explorer


    She hasn''t streamed in over a year. Doesn''t really count as a streamer anymore.


    240: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank is a whole different level. And besides, she was just letting the footage run, not really streaming like Asagao.


    241: Anonymous Explorer


    Did they just say "Raijuu"?


    242: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe it''s a monster someone tamed?


    243: Anonymous Explorer


    Did the hero of this thread just emerge?


    244: Anonymous Explorer


    Total BS. Get lost.


    245: Anonymous Explorer


    Everyone here is just a basement-dwelling NEET making their parents cry.


    246: Anonymous Explorer


    You can tame monsters? Never heard of that before.


    247: Anonymous Explorer


    No way a monster saved her. That''s gotta be a lie.


    248: Anonymous Explorer


    As long as someone saved Asagao, I don''t care who it is.


    249: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s a guy, he''ll definitely act like her boyfriend.


    250: Anonymous Explorer


    No one would save her without ulterior motives.


    251: Anonymous Explorer


    And in the lower floors, no less?


    252: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾246


    I heard it''s possible if you have some insanely expensive specialized equipment or something.


    253: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s safe, so that''s all that matters.


    254: Anonymous Explorer


    If she''s not dead, then it''s not a broadcast disaster.


    255: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s still a total disaster, though.


    256: Anonymous Explorer


    Dungeon streaming is seriously dangerous.


    257: Anonymous Explorer


    Then don''t watch, idiot.


    258: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like the guy doesn''t even know what a camera is, lol.


    259: Anonymous Explorer


    Is he a caveman?


    260: Anonymous Explorer


    That actually made me laugh.


    261: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s inappropriate, but lol.


    262: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t know what a camera is¡ªmust be some kind of mole person.


    263: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably some native who lives in the dungeon.


    264: Anonymous Explorer


    If he doesn''t know about cameras, then he''s definitely not a streamer.


    265: Anonymous Explorer


    I told you, no streamer makes it down to Floor 40 or beyond.


    266: Anonymous Explorer


    But Asagao''s down there.


    267: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao''s an exception.


    268: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s insanely strong.


    269: Anonymous Explorer


    Whatever, I''m just here for the eye candy.


    270: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾269


    Get lost, trash.


    271: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, more weirdos crawling out.


    272: Anonymous Explorer


    Is she really a high school girl?


    273: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah.


    274: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone go stalk her; her info''s on the Explorer Association''s website, lol.


    275: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾274


    You''re disgusting.


    276: Anonymous Explorer Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    £¾£¾274


    Trash-tier behavior, lol.


    277: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾274


    You realize she''s the kind of girl who can solo mid-floor monsters? She''ll destroy you.


    278: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s just a girl, though.


    279: Anonymous Explorer


    A girl who can smash rocks with her bare hands isn''t just a girl.


    280: Anonymous Explorer


    Is she a gorilla?


    281: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just how explorers are.


    282: Anonymous Explorer


    Reminds me of that meme from overseas where someone catches a bullet with their bare hands.


    283: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like she''s safe, so I''m looking forward to tomorrow''s stream.


    284: Anonymous Explorer


    Did the ryona fans lose their minds?


    285: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾284


    Some guys on social media did.


    286: Anonymous Explorer


    They got flamed and deleted their accounts immediately.


    287: Anonymous Explorer


    Serves them right, lol.


    288: Anonymous Explorer


    As it should be.


    289: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾283


    Don''t expect her to stream the day after almost dying.


    290: Anonymous Explorer


    This could traumatize her, and she might quit dungeon streaming.


    291: Anonymous Explorer


    What happens if she does?


    292: Anonymous Explorer


    She might switch to game streaming.


    293: Anonymous Explorer


    No way I''d watch that.


    294: Anonymous Explorer


    The audience would be totally different, so yeah, makes sense.


    295: Anonymous Explorer


    People watching Asagao''s streams are just pretending they''re the ones conquering the dungeon.


    296: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s a creepy fanboy in here.


    297: Anonymous Explorer


    Some are probably hoping they have a chance with her.


    298: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s got big boobs and is hot. I figured some famous streamer would have already snatched her up.


    299: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s probably already taken.


    300: Anonymous Explorer


    She definitely has a boyfriend.


    301: Anonymous Explorer


    She probably surpassed that famous streamer ages ago.


    302: Anonymous Explorer


    Her skills are on a whole different level.


    303: Anonymous Explorer


    There aren''t many streamers who can even reach the mid floors of Shibuya Dungeon.


    304: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s on a different tier, for sure.


    305: Anonymous Explorer


    No wonder she''s so popular.


    306: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s got skills, which is why even international viewers love her.


    307: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not just her face and boobs. Though, that''s why I watch her.


    308: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾307


    Gross.


    309: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾307


    An old man glued to the forum watching streams for boobs¡­ You''ve hit rock bottom.


    310: Anonymous Explorer


    Who''s worse, a thirsty old man or a fanboy throwing money at her?


    311: Anonymous Explorer


    The fanboys throwing money at her are also old men...


    312: Anonymous Explorer


    Just assume everyone online is an old man.


    313: Anonymous Explorer


    So, does that mean Asagao''s an old man too¡­?


    314: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾313


    Die.


    315: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾313


    You blind or something?


    316: Anonymous Explorer


    This has gotta be a fanboy getting mad.


    317: Anonymous Explorer


    Keep the fanboys out of this thread!

 Chapter 4 - 4: Loner

    Tsukasa Kisaragi suddenly remembered his role as a student, though only because he didn''t have any dungeon requests today. Usually, as an EX-Rank explorer, the requests kept him too busy to attend school regularly. It felt like ages since he last set foot in class probably a week or so. Not that it made much difference.


    He had no friends, no club activities to pour his youth into, and definitely no sweet, romantic memories with a girlfriend. If anything, the dungeon was his lover. What a dry, uneventful youth.


    Since middle school, Tsukasa had planned to live as a dungeon explorer. He enrolled in a decent private high school using his inheritance and paid the rest of his tuition with money earned from the dungeon. But he skipped so much school that he now regretted not just opting for a correspondence school instead.


    As a third-year student, his grades were slightly above average, and his attendance was dismal, leading to poor report cards. However, his homeroom teacher didn''t seem too worried, likely because they knew Tsukasa was making money as a dungeon explorer. Though they probably had no idea he was earning in the billions.


    Lately, dungeon exploration had become quite popular among high school students. The government had been lamenting the decline in the number of explorers, but high schoolers were stepping up.


    The government wanted more full-time explorers to increase exports of magic stones, so the minimum age for an explorer license dropped from 20 to 18, and now you could get one as early as the spring after graduating from middle school.


    So why were high school students becoming explorers? Simple: with a bit of effort, even reaching the top floors could earn more than a typical part-time job. That''s it. Tsukasa didn''t know for sure, but about half of his classmates had explorer licenses.


    "Good morning!"


    "N-Nanami!?"


    "Are you okay!?"


    Tsukasa was lost in thought, reading a thick book in the corner of the classroom, waiting for homeroom to start when the room suddenly became lively. He glanced up from his book and saw the girl he had saved yesterday, smiling with a bandage wrapped around her head.


    "Someone kind helped me out."


    "We saw it on the stream!"


    "I told you it was too dangerous to go to the lower floors."


    "I''m sorry."


    Her name¡­ Asakawa Nanami, right? The girl he saved yesterday¡ªhe thought she looked familiar. Turns out she was his classmate. But with a different outfit and hairstyle, it''s no wonder he didn''t recognize her. Not that he interacted much with his classmates anyway.


    "But who was it that saved you during the stream?"


    "¡­Oh, right. The stream didn''t cut off, did it?"


    "You''re just now realizing that? The stream kept going until the Association staff cut it off at the entrance."


    "R-Really? I was too embarrassed to check the archive¡­ I only remember being saved by a¡­ wolf?"


    Looking around the classroom, it was clear how popular Asakawa Nanami was. Before she arrived, everyone was chatting in small groups, but as soon as she walked in, they all gathered around her.


    She really was beautiful. Tall for a girl, with a perfect figure. As a dungeon explorer capable of soloing the lower floors, her body was toned, yet her chest was still quite prominent. Her glossy, black hair, reminiscent of a traditional Japanese beauty, was stunning. Even as an awkward loner with no chance, Tsukasa couldn''t help but admire her.


    He had a thing for legs, so yeah, he liked her. But it wasn''t like he wanted to date her or anything¡ªjust thought she was cute, that''s all. Yeah, sounds like a lame excuse, better stop.


    "Yeah¡­ I was really worried watching the stream. I was thinking about going to help you, Asakawa-san."


    "T-Thank you¡­" S~ea??h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Some flashy-looking guy went up to talk to her. Why do guys like him always get all the attention? It''s practically discrimination against introverts. But guys like him usually work hard behind the scenes to be popular, exuding confidence that naturally attracts girls. Just being nice or sincere isn''t enough. Not that Tsukasa considered himself either.


    Still, judging by everyone''s reactions, this guy must be pretty popular, but Asakawa''s response seemed lukewarm.


    "You should''ve asked me for help. I would''ve gone to the lower floors with you."


    "But it was my stream¡­ I wanted to try it alone."


    "I could''ve been your bodyguard. There are only two C-Rank explorers in our class, so you can rely on me more."


    Wow.


    Even though Tsukasa was EX-Rank, he didn''t usually speak up, but a high school senior being a C-Rank explorer was impressive. The guy was good-looking, tall, probably smart, and had the skills to back it up. Tsukasa was honestly jealous.


    Then again, Tsukasa didn''t come to school often enough to remember everyone''s names.


    "You''re so cool, Shunsuke! We need to raise our explorer ranks too!"


    "It''s all about hard work. Being an explorer isn''t just about talent, it''s about effort."


    Is this guy actually nice?


    Tsukasa wasn''t sure since he barely came to school. Even when he did, he often left early or spent his time waiting for the day to end while reading a book.


    And if he remembered correctly, the guy''s name was Kurihara Shunsuke¡­ or something like that. Not entirely sure.


    "Hm?"


    Wait, he''s looking this way.


    "Oh? You''re here today? You usually don''t show up."


    "Huh? Who''s that loner?"


    "Isn''t he the guy who''s always absent? That shut-in kid?"


    Ouch. That stings. They just bluntly said what I''m insecure about. This is why I don''t like gyaru.


    "Everyone''s gathered and chatting, so why don''t you join us?"


    "N-No, it''s okay¡­"


    Would they get mad if I said I wasn''t interested? Please, teacher, get here soon¡­ This is torture.


    "You''re always reading in the corner like that, no wonder you''re such a loner."


    "Uh¡­ Can I have my book back?"


    For some reason, she took his book. Honestly, it''s not that interesting¡­ It''s just a comprehensive guide to Japanese yokai.


    "Pfft¡­ Are you reading a book for kids? Grow up already."


    "Hahaha! Yokai, seriously?"


    "What a total nerd."


    I might cry. Maybe if I apologize, they''ll give it back. I don''t want them to ruin it¡­ I should just apologize.


    "I-I''m sorry. Can I please have it back?"


    "Huh? I''m just reading it a bit, what''s the big deal?"


    "It''s¡­ it''s fine, but¡­"


    "Oh, it''s fine? You''re such a pushover!"


    "Such a wimp."


    Feels like the whole class is making fun of me. Am I the only awkward introvert in this class?


    Glancing around, it seemed like everyone was laughing at him. Apparently, Tsukasa had somehow ended up in a class full of extroverts.


    Damn. As an introvert, the only way I can think to get my book back is to grovel. Maybe a bow?


    "You should probably give it back. The teacher will be here any minute."


    "Oh, right¡­ Sorry, loner-kun."


    Wow, they gave it back without ruining it. Just when I thought he was a jerk, he shows a decent side. It''s this constant back-and-forth that probably makes girls fall for him. Noted.


    But Asakawa-san, who came to his rescue, looked more like a goddess to him. Though she was tilting her head, looking confused.


    "Such a quiet, pure magic aura¡­ I''ve never seen anything like it¡­"


    She''s mumbling something, but can she say it louder? If it''s an insult, I might just cry and go home early, so please make sure I hear it.


    Sigh¡­ I finally came to school, and now I''ve got to deal with this hassle. Guess I''ll blow off some steam in the dungeon after school¡­ Wait, I go there every day. What kind of fool am I, willingly walking the path of a corporate slave?

 Chapter 5 - 5: Between Class and Chaos

    "Sigh¡­"


    Going back to school after such a long time is mentally exhausting. In a dungeon, I only feel physical fatigue, but the mental strain here is way worse. Sure, there are dungeon explorers who deal with much more intense mental stress than this school life, especially when they''re constantly on high alert. But I''m just using shikigami to handle everything, so it''s not the same for me.


    Complaining about school being tough is just my personal issue, so whatever.


    "Hey, loner, heading home right after school?"


    "¡­Uh, is that a problem?"


    I''ve been talking to older people so much lately that I automatically use polite language. Not that I''m making excuses, but I''d really prefer if they didn''t talk to me. Politeness is a useful tool that even introverts can use to have a halfway decent conversation.


    I get why my presence might be annoying, given how many days I''ve missed¡ªenough to be held back under normal circumstances. But all my absences are excused because of requests from the Explorer Association, so give me a break. I''m catching up on classes through extra lessons, after all.


    "Don''t bully him too much."


    "I''m just talking to him, right?"


    "R-Right?"


    Honestly, I can''t tell the difference between bullying and talking. Did they seriously call me "loner" without intending to bully me?


    They probably just found someone new to mess with in their friend group. Sigh¡­ Why didn''t I just go to a correspondence school?


    "So, I wanted to ask¡ªdo you have an explorer license?"


    "Y-Yeah, I do."


    "Really? That''s good."


    What''s good?


    Does having an explorer license earn me brownie points with this guy?


    "I''m a C-Rank explorer, and I can''t stand people who don''t have a license. They''re just too weak."


    "O-Oh, really?"


    "Of course. I''m sure you get it too, right? The license exam is ridiculously easy."


    "Well¡­ yeah, it is."


    Honestly, it is pretty easy. I think the government wants as many explorers as possible, so they''ve made the license exam quite accessible. There''s an academic test, but it''s just for reference and doesn''t affect getting the license. Plus, they provide a lot of support for G-Rank explorers in the top floors.


    "Exactly! So if someone doesn''t have a license, it just means they''re weak."


    The test isn''t hard, and they offer extensive training, so it''s easy to pass and get support afterward. The license can even go on your resume, which is why a lot of college students get it. But the people who don''t have one probably don''t have enough magic power to become explorers in the first place.


    Ever since dungeons appeared in the world, kids have been born with magic power in their bodies, but the amount varies by person. You can train and increase your innate magic, but there''s always a limit¡ªan inherent talent gap. Without enough magic power, being an explorer is a deadly profession.


    So, the government had to make the tough call to prevent people with low magic power from even attempting to get a license.


    "Discriminating against people with low magic power isn''t right."


    "Huh? What''s wrong with calling trash what it is¡ªtrash with no talent?"


    This is exactly the kind of person people were worried about. But when it comes to infrastructure and life-or-death matters, maybe it was inevitable. Still, personally, I don''t like people who look down on others like this.


    "Are we done here?"


    "Yeah, we''re good. Oh, if you''re ever about to die in the top floors, I might save you. Maybe!"


    "Hahaha!"


    It''s a sickening thought, but being a C-Rank explorer in high school means this guy is extremely talented. When someone has a clear indicator that they''re better than their peers, it''s no surprise they act like that.


    "Heading home now?"


    "Asakawa-san¡­"


    Just as I was leaving the classroom, feeling irritated, Asakawa, who was chatting with some other girls in the hallway, called out to me. Being noticed by the class idol might put me on the radar of the other guys.


    "Hehe¡­ Everyone''s gone to their clubs, so no one''s around."


    She laughed when she saw me glancing around nervously.


    This high school prides itself on balancing academics and extracurriculars, so unless you have a valid reason, you''re required to join a club. But since I work as an explorer, I''m exempt. Back in my first year, I was in the Home Economics Club, though.


    "So, if you''re not heading to a club, does that mean you''re an explorer?"


    "Huh?" Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I got exempted from club activities because I''m working hard as an explorer, too."


    "O-Oh, really?"


    Makes sense. If she was in the lower floors, she''s at least C-Rank or higher. She''s also exempt from club activities because she''s an explorer.


    "It''s the Shibuya Dungeon, right? It''s the closest one around here."


    "Y-Yeah, that''s right."


    "I see¡­ We might have crossed paths there!"


    Well, we actually met yesterday. You just weren''t conscious at the time.


    I usually take requests all over the Kanto region, and when I dive into the Shibuya Dungeon on my own, I head straight to the deep floors, so we probably haven''t crossed paths. Just your imagination.


    "Well, take care!"


    "Uh, yeah."


    But she seems like a really nice person. She even helped me out this morning. Definitely a good person. I might be falling for her.


    Since I rarely get the chance to explore dungeons for personal reasons, I thought I''d go deeper today. But as luck would have it, I felt my work phone vibrating in my bag.


    "¡­Hello?"


    "Hello, Tsukasa-kun?"


    The voice on the other end belonged to a woman who was quite high up in the Explorer Association¡ªa sort of personal liaison for me.


    "I''m sorry to bother you the day after yesterday, but could you head to the 40th floor of the Shibuya Dungeon?"


    "Right now?"


    "As soon as possible. Is school over?"


    "Yeah, it is."


    Great, I''m already feeling a sigh coming on. If it''s the 40th floor, couldn''t they send a B-Rank or A-Rank explorer instead?


    "There''s been a report of multiple Frost Wyverns appearing near the 40th floor."


    "¡­Understood."


    Frost Wyverns, huh¡­ Guess I''m the only one who can handle that. Frost Wyverns are among the strongest monsters in the lower floors. If there are multiple of them, sending a B-Rank explorer would be a death sentence. They''d need to send a party of at least five A-Ranks, so it''s easier to just send me, an EX-Rank, to take care of it.


    "Thank you. I''m sorry¡­ I know it''s a lot to ask of a high schooler."


    "No, it''s my job."


    "¡­You''re still a high schooler, though. Don''t you want to enjoy your youth more?"


    "Not really, no."


    "You''re so dried up¡­ Maybe it''s because of all the requests, but you only get one youth, so you should try falling in love, too!"


    "Are you my aunt or something? I''m hanging up now."


    Geez¡­ It''s not that I don''t appreciate the concern, but I accepted this when I became EX-Rank. I''ll probably regret it when I''m in my late 20s, but for now, I''m still a kid, so I''ll just keep using that as an excuse.


    The dungeon I was going to explore for personal reasons just became part of a job, so it''s not a big deal. But there''s a huge difference in motivation between going into a dungeon by choice and doing it out of obligation.


    No point in complaining to myself. I''ll just head home, change, and get going.

 Chapter 6 - 6: Dungeon Dive

    When I was about to dive into the dungeon for personal reasons, as usual, the Explorer Association sent me a request, so I ended up going into the dungeon anyway. I''m Tsukasa Kisaragi. My registered explorer name is "UNKNOWN," nice to meet you.


    By the way, the reason my registered name is "UNKNOWN" is because I left the name field blank when I got my explorer license right after starting high school in April. What was I thinking?


    Normally, if you leave it blank, they just use your real name, but the staff member at the time took it upon themselves to write "UNKNOWN." I''m embarrassed and want to change it, but everyone in the Association calls me by that name now, so I can''t really change it.


    "Hey."


    "You got here quickly, UNKNOWN-san."


    "Well¡­ I just changed clothes after coming home from school."


    Even though the Shibuya Dungeon is at the far end of the station, it feels really close since I commute by train.


    "About the request¡­" Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I heard it''s Frost Wyverns."


    "Y-Yes. Two or more Frost Wyverns were spotted on the 42nd floor."


    "That''s rare¡­ You don''t usually see Frost Wyverns, even on the 60th floor or beyond."


    Frost Wyverns are technically lower-floor monsters, but you''re more likely to encounter them in the deeper floors. They''re already rare, even in the deep floors.


    As the name suggests, Frost Wyverns are medium-sized dragons, and in terms of strength, a B-Rank explorer might barely be able to defeat one solo. They can manipulate ice freely, and their bodies are so cold that you can''t touch them without freezing. I wonder how they survive with such a low body temperature, but it''s a fact, so there''s no point in questioning it.


    "Alright, I''ll head out right away."


    "P-Please be careful."


    As I entered the dungeon, I noticed that the top floors were, as usual, filled with an even mix of monsters and explorers. The Shibuya Dungeon probably has the highest number of challengers in Japan, with half of the explorer population concentrated in the top floors, making it crowded with people.


    I don''t like to summon my shikigami in crowded areas like the top floors since they could easily be mistaken for monsters. So, I stick to using just a katana until I reach the middle floors.


    "Gyah!"


    As I descended the stairs, a black-colored goblin came running at me, swinging something that looked like a machete.


    In games, goblins often appear as the weakest enemies, but seeing one in person, my only reaction is that it''s surprisingly gross. The sight of it waving a machete around with bloodshot eyes is genuinely scary. But since explorers'' physical abilities are on a completely different level from regular people, I can kill a goblin with just a casual swing of my katana.


    "Gyii!?"


    The goblin''s small body, only about half my height, was sliced clean in two. Since this katana is forged from materials I obtained in the deep floors, cutting a goblin in half is a breeze.


    Usually, a few more goblins would attack, but with so many people in the dungeon today, most of the goblins have probably already been hunted down. Poor weakest species.


    The goblin''s body turned to ash and disappeared. For some reason, monsters in dungeons turn to ash and vanish when defeated. Depending on the monster, some parts remain, but all that''s left of a goblin is a magic crystal, a mana stone.


    "Goblin mana stones are this small?"


    It''s been a while since I last cut down a goblin, so I was surprised by how small the mana stone was. Since mana stones are a valuable national resource, the government buys them by weight. The price per gram fluctuates depending on supply, but collecting a ton of small goblin mana stones wouldn''t provide enough income to live on.


    Honestly, if all you do is hunt goblins in the top floors, you''d be better off working a regular part-time job. It''s safer too.


    But if you''re skilled enough to hunt goblins consistently, you''d probably become an F-Rank explorer and be able to venture into the top floors, where you could earn a decent income.


    "Hah!"


    "It''s heading your way!"


    "Three goblins incoming!"


    As I walked through the top floors, I noticed a lot of teenagers around my age. For many high school students, fighting goblins in groups is probably the best they can manage. They say magic power strengthens the more you use it, after all.


    In reality, some people''s magic power increases rapidly, while others'' grows steadily over time. There are even stories of people who couldn''t qualify for an explorer license in high school because of low magic power but later surpassed C-Rank magic levels by their thirties. But that doesn''t mean high schoolers brimming with talent won''t continue to grow, either.


    In the top floors, goblins are the most common enemy, but near the 10th floor, which borders the top and upper floors, other monsters start to appear. You''ll encounter creatures like Steel Ants¡ªgiant ants about 40 centimeters long. Though smaller than goblins, they have incredibly hard shells.


    However, they''re not particularly dangerous; their jaws aren''t very strong, so they can only draw a little blood. They also spit formic acid, but it just irritates the skin. At least, for explorers with a certain level of magic power.


    Basically, the more magic power you have, the harder your body becomes. The exact mechanics are unclear, but explorers who dive into the lower floors can even control this hardness. They''re just wrapping their bodies in magic power, though.


    "Oh, ants."


    While walking through the 10th floor, I spotted two Steel Ants ahead. They hadn''t noticed me yet, but with their senses, they would probably detect me if I got within 10 meters. For me, though, 10 meters is a distance I can cover in less than a tenth of a second.


    While ordinary weapons can''t cut through the Steel Ants'' shells, my beloved katana slices through them like tofu. It doesn''t have a name, by the way.


    Despite their hard shells, Steel Ants aren''t worth much since only the chest part remains after they''re defeated, and even that sells for next to nothing. I tossed the mana stones and shells into the bag I brought and continued toward the middle floors.


    Since there are still many inexperienced explorers in the top floors, it''s best not to hunt too many monsters here. If I wanted to, I could wipe out all the monsters on this floor within minutes. But to do that, I''d need to summon my shikigami.

 Chapter 7 - 7: Unexpected Encounter

    I quickly passed through the upper floors and arrived at the entrance to the middle floors, the 21st level. From here on, it''s a world where, without a certain level of strength, you could easily meet your end. Still, with a D-rank explorer license, you''re allowed in, so anyone with some talent should be able to manage.


    The upper floors feel like typical dungeon caves, but from the middle floors onward, the environment changes drastically. Levels 21 to 30 are covered in dense forests.


    The forest is thick with trees, the kind of place you''d expect forest-dwelling monsters to live. The ceiling is covered with a special moss that glows for 12 hours and then "sleeps" for 12 hours, making it feel as bright as daylight. Interestingly, the timing of the light doesn''t match the actual sun¡ªat 5 AM, it suddenly becomes as bright as noon, and by 5 PM, it plunges into the darkness of night.


    "Alright, Raij¨±."


    The forest is so dense that visibility is limited, making it easy for monsters to ambush you if you''re not careful. But for me, this is actually an advantage because it makes it harder for other explorers to spot me, making it easier to summon my shikigami.


    When I call Raij¨±''s name, a yellow wolf appears from a magic circle¡ªmy trusty companion who''s always by my side. As soon as it''s summoned, Raij¨± sniffs the air, alert and scanning the surroundings before turning its gaze to me.


    "What''s up?"


    "Woof..."


    Raij¨± moves with a relaxed gait, seeming calm, but if a monster shows up, it''ll strike with lightning speed¡ªa reliable shikigami indeed.


    I created my shikigami based on the yokai encyclopedia I read at school, and honestly, it seems to have picked up on my personality in a subtle way.


    "Alright, today''s mission is on the 40th floor."


    As I start walking, Raij¨± follows, trotting along with its fur slightly bristling with static electricity. I''m not sure how it works, but Raij¨± can detect nearby monsters by charging its fur with electricity. Plus, its lightning attacks are precisely controlled, so I don''t have to worry about getting hit even if I''m swinging my sword around. Pretty handy.


    After walking through the forest for a while, a rat bigger than the Steel Ants from the upper floors appears.


    "That''s¡­ a Giant Rat."


    This creature, aptly named Giant Rat, doesn''t even get a chance to react before there''s a sharp crack of electricity in the air¡ªRaij¨± has already taken off its head. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The Raij¨± is said to be a mythical creature born from lightning that split a giant tree. Riding on clouds and moving at the speed of lightning, it''s too fast for human eyes to track.


    "Good job."


    After swiftly dealing with the Giant Rat, Raij¨± relaxes its fur and lets out a yawn. To Raij¨±, a middle-floor Giant Rat isn''t even a threat. Even if dozens of them showed up, Raij¨± would wipe them out with ease¡ªthat''s how powerful it is.


    As I continue walking through the middle floors, my bag starts to feel pretty heavy.


    I''ve heard that overseas they''re working on bags enchanted with magic to have incredibly large interiors, but they haven''t figured out how to make them practical yet. With regular technology, you can wait for advancements, but with magic, it all depends on finding the right materials. It could be developed tomorrow, or we might be waiting a hundred years.


    There''s no point in wishing for what I don''t have, so I rely on my usual solution for carrying my load.


    "Kasha."


    A flaming cart appears from a magic circle and stops in front of me. Kasha is a yokai said to drag sinners'' souls to hell, but I''ve repurposed its cart to carry my bags full of magic stones. Honestly, I wonder if I''m using it the right way, but Kasha doesn''t seem to mind, and it organizes everything neatly for me.


    Being a shikigami, it''s strong enough to give me peace of mind, and best of all, I can summon and dismiss it at will.


    I take an empty bag from the Kasha that I had stored there earlier, and the demon pulling the cart nods in satisfaction before disappearing into particles. I have no idea how, but whenever I summon Kasha again, it always has my stored magic stones with it. Yet, if Raij¨± gets injured, dismissing and resummoning it heals the wounds. It''s a mystery.


    No point in dwelling on things that have no clear answer, so I continue deeper into the middle floors with Raij¨± in tow.


    Past the 30th floor, the forest gives way to a cavern filled with water. It''s like an underground lake, with water that glows faintly, adding a mystical touch to the otherwise dim surroundings. But there are monsters in the water, so getting too close isn''t wise.


    Not that I have to worry about that.


    Raij¨± is strong enough to handle even the monsters in the deep floors. This means that once I summon Raij¨±, I can pretty much just stroll along, yawning, as it takes care of everything until we reach the deeper floors. But since today''s mission is on the 40th floor, honestly, it''s not all that exciting.


    Yeah, it''s not exciting. The reason I dive into dungeons isn''t just for the money; it''s because I enjoy the act of exploring. But after three years of delving into this dungeon, I''ve memorized every inch of the upper, middle, and lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon. Unless the dungeon''s structure changes drastically, it''s just not that interesting anymore.


    The thrill of exploration comes from the unknown, from discovering new depths.


    With these trivial thoughts running through my mind, and with Raij¨± handling all the monsters, I reach the 40th floor in no time. As you descend, the dungeon floors get larger, but if you take the shortest route from stairway to stairway, it doesn''t take that long¡­ I think. Maybe it''s just because Raij¨± is annihilating everything in its path.


    "Huh? Someone''s already here."


    I heard there were multiple Frost Wyverns a bit below the 40th floor, but it doesn''t seem like a warning has been issued. Well, the dungeon authorities probably keep track of anyone heading to the lower floors. If this were happening in the upper floors, the Explorer Association would post detailed information on their website and issue evacuation warnings.


    But since it''s the lower floors, they probably think it''s fine. Still, they really should issue a warning¡­ It''s not like they can excuse a death by saying they were busy afterward.


    I turn my gaze toward where I sense someone''s presence, and I instantly regret it.


    "Today, I''m definitely going to conquer the lower floors! I''m doing it out of sheer determination!"


    Standing there was Asakawa-san, the same person I saw in this exact spot yesterday.


    Why is she back here the day after nearly dying? Is she crazy?

 Chapter 8 - 8: Duel With the Wyvern!?

    For Asakawa Nanami, the dungeon was a place to prove herself.


    Until she became a high school student, Asakawa Nanami had her entire life dictated by her parents. To her, the dungeon was the one place where she could express her true self. She started dungeon streaming simply because she wanted to be sure of her own existence.


    Asakawa Nanami was recognized for her skill as an explorer and gained many fans, but to her, the popularity she achieved as a streamer was always of less importance.


    "Today, I''m definitely going to conquer the lower floors! I''m doing it out of sheer determination!"


    Chat:


    : Ehh¡­


    : She''s going to die this time.


    : You shouldn''t push yourself.


    : Let''s just eat the crab we found on the upper floors.


    : Seriously, stop going to the lower floors.


    "It''s not impossible. I''m going to conquer the lower floors!"


    Chat:


    : She''s stubborn.


    : Well, it''s her responsibility if she dies, so whatever.


    : If she dies, I won''t have anyone to donate to anymore.


    : Just donate to charity instead.


    : Seriously, don''t do it.


    Asakawa Nanami, known as the popular streamer Asagao, tightened her grip on her beloved spear. Even though she considered the evaluation of her streaming career secondary, she didn''t intend to dismiss it entirely. However, she felt that her viewers were implying that her abilities were only valid up to the middle floors, and she was desperate to prove them wrong.


    Chat:


    : She almost died on the lower floors even though she''s C-rank. Isn''t the association at fault?


    : The association''s criteria are so unclear.


    : Asagao-chan can do it!


    : No way.


    : Do your best!


    : You might die, so just stop.


    "Even if it means risking my life, I''m still going."


    Chat:


    : Dungeon lunatic.


    : This is typical Asagao-chan.


    : Here we go.


    : The lower floors aren''t a joke.


    : The death rate on the lower floors is insane, seriously, stop.


    No matter what Asakawa Nanami said, the viewers, who were just watching from behind their screens, didn''t change. And similarly, no matter what the viewers said, Nanami had no intention of changing her mind.


    "Alright, I''m going!"


    Chat:


    : Ignoring everything, huh?


    : Well, yeah.


    : She''s more curious than anything.


    : That''s so Asagao-chan lol.


    : Lol


    : She''s dead lol


    Ignoring the comments on purpose, Nanami headed toward the stairs leading to the lower floors. But as soon as she did, she instinctively sensed danger and took a large step back.


    Chat:


    : Oh?


    : Did she get scared?


    : Let''s just go back.


    : It''s impossible.


    : What''s going on?


    : ?


    The viewers were making casual comments, unable to sense the tension that Nanami was feeling. Meanwhile, Nanami, now too focused to even glance at the comments, readied her spear and kept her eyes fixed on the stairs.


    "Something¡­ is coming!"


    As Nanami spoke, the stairs leading to the lower floors began to freeze over, and from below emerged a wyvern clad in sharp icicles covering its white body. The overwhelming pressure from the creature made Nanami flinch for a moment, but she quickly regained her resolve and tightened her grip on her spear.


    Chat:


    : This is bad.


    : Run!


    : You can''t win against that!


    : I''ve never seen a monster like this before!


    : Did a lower-floor monster come up? Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : She''s dead, she''s dead!


    "It''s fast!"


    Nanami instantly realized the vast difference in power between herself and the Frost Wyvern standing before her. The thought of running briefly crossed her mind, but the moment the Frost Wyvern turned its gaze toward her and began to move, that option vanished.


    The Frost Wyvern was flying low at a speed that didn''t match its large frame, aiming straight for Nanami. Knowing full well that even if she ran with all her might, it would catch up to her, Nanami was left with only two options: fight and win, or fight and die.


    "Damn it! I-It''s freezing everything!"


    Chat:


    : It''s hell.


    : Can anyone actually beat this thing?


    : It''s over.


    : Is she really going to die this time?


    : If you''re here to make jokes, leave!


    : Please, just run!


    As the Frost Wyvern flew low, exhaling a breath of subzero air, the 40th floor, which had resembled an underground lake, quickly transformed into an icy cavern. Desperately dodging the Frost Wyvern''s frigid breath as it spread across the ground, Nanami gathered her strength and leaped high into the air, thrusting her spear into the wyvern''s head as it passed beneath her.


    "It pierced!"


    Feeling the spearhead penetrate the hard scales and tear into the flesh of the Frost Wyvern''s head, Nanami was confident she could win if her weapon could land a blow. However, the blood that should have spurted out froze instantly, and the spear lodged in the wyvern''s head became stuck in the ice, impossible to pull out.


    "Damn it!"


    Before Nanami could even fully register her mistake, the Frost Wyvern thrashed its head, throwing Nanami off, and opened its mouth, forming a magic circle.


    "M-Magic?"


    Most of the monsters up to the middle floors relied on their physical abilities or special traits to attack. It was becoming a widely accepted notion among dungeon explorers that only certain humanoid monsters could use magic. But that was only true for the middle floors.


    Chat:


    : Huh?


    : Did she die?


    : This is hell.


    : It''s on a different level.


    : This has to be a joke.


    Frost Wyverns possess high intelligence and can use the magic stored within their bodies. In addition to breathing subzero air, this Frost Wyvern used its magic circle to launch a series of deadly ice spikes.


    As the spikes hit the ground, they exploded, freezing the surroundings with incredible force. Whether they were earnest supporters or casual onlookers, all the viewers watching the stream were left speechless. At the same time, they began to truly fear the monsters that roamed the lower floors.


    "Hah, hah¡­"


    Chat:


    : !?


    : She''s alive!


    : It''s a miracle!


    "Ngh¡­ Hah¡­"


    Nanami, who had managed to block the exploding ice spikes by casting multiple layers of fire magic, was left panting from the massive drain on her magic reserves. Although she had defended herself with fire, the disparity in power between her and the Frost Wyvern was evident, and parts of her body were covered in frost.


    "Damn it!"


    Chat:


    : Run, quickly!


    : There''s no way she can escape now.


    : Just do something!


    : This is bad.


    : This is really bad.


    The Frost Wyvern, realizing it hadn''t finished Nanami off, began conjuring more ice spikes from its magic circle. Nanami was shocked at how easily the monster could cast such powerful spells that could kill a person instantly. And she realized, this was the power of monsters from the lower floors.


    As the ice spikes flew toward her, Nanami used all her strength to dodge them while keeping her eyes on the spear still lodged in the wyvern''s head. Right now, there was only one way she could win.


    "Okay¡­ Here we go!"


    Summoning all her courage, Nanami sprinted toward the Frost Wyvern, which was continuously casting its freezing magic. The comments section was exploding with warnings that she was committing suicide, but Nanami wasn''t aware of them as she charged toward the wyvern. Naturally, the closer she got to the wyvern, the harder it became to dodge the ice spikes as they reached her faster.


    But with miraculous reflexes, Nanami dodged the ice spikes by a hair''s breadth and cast a slicing spell.


    "Too shallow!?"


    Even with multiple layers of magic powerful enough to slice most middle-floor monsters in half, the Frost Wyvern''s body only suffered a few shallow cuts. However, the unexpected counterattack caused the wyvern to flinch slightly, and Nanami seized the opportunity to reach her spear.


    "Take this!"


    Ignoring the searing pain of the cold against her skin as she touched the spear, Nanami cast a fire spell and threw her entire weight onto the spear, driving it deeper into the wyvern''s head. Instead of pulling it out, she decided it would be more effective to push it further in.


    The Frost Wyvern, attempting to shake Nanami off its head, convulsed violently as the spear drove into its brain. It then collapsed, spewing a fountain of blood, and began to disintegrate into ash as it died.


    "Ah!"


    Exhausted, Nanami was thrown to the ground as the Frost Wyvern collapsed, unable to even brace herself for the impact. But as she watched the wyvern''s body turn to ash and disappear, she smiled.


    "I¡­ won?"


    Chat:


    : Whoooaaaaaaa!!!


    : Best. Stream. Ever.


    : Asagao is the strongest!


    : This is insane!


    : Streamers are the strongest after all!


    The comment section exploded at a speed never seen before as viewers watched the streamer Asagao, who had been on the brink of death, take down a Frost Wyvern. The number of concurrent viewers had reached unprecedented heights, and Nanami, lying on her back, exhaled a deep breath.


    "I guess¡­ I can''t go to the lower floors today¡­"


    Chat:


    : She''s still thinking about going lol.


    : But she beat something that strong, so she should be fine now.


    : Yeah, totally.


    : Is she getting stronger during the battle!?


    : Lol


    "I''m starting to worry if I''ll even be able to handle the lower floors."


    Chat:


    : There''s no way there are multiple monsters like that down there.


    : It was probably just a strong one that wandered up.


    : Yesterday''s skeleton looked weaker anyway.


    : She could definitely beat that skeleton now.


    : Asagao is the strongest! Asagao is the strongest!


    Nanami agreed with the comments that flooded in, expressing endless curiosity about the lower floors now that she had defeated an unknown threat. She assumed that if there were multiple enemies as strong as the Frost Wyvern, explorers would be wiped out in no time. That''s what she thought.


    As the Frost Wyvern''s defeat brought back the usual atmosphere in the comment section, three more Frost Wyverns, each even larger than the one she had just fought, slowly ascended the stairs from the lower floors.


    "Huh?"


    Chat:


    : Huh?


    : What?


    : It''s over.


    : Wait, what?


    These three Frost Wyverns, each about twice the size of the one Nanami had just killed, slowly made their way up the stairs from the lower floors. For Nanami and her viewers, who only knew the middle floors, this was an introduction to a completely unknown world.


    The dungeon, with all its threats, was baring its fangs at Nanami.

 Chapter 9 - 9: Rescuing Asakawa-san

    Oh no.


    I was so focused on watching Asakawa-san fight the Frost Wyvern that I thought it would be bad manners as an explorer to intervene and steal the kill. But before I knew it, she had already defeated it.


    Asakawa-san, thinking she was safe, was lying on the ground, but there were supposed to be multiple Frost Wyverns. As I had suspected earlier, the one she was fighting was smaller than usual. The size difference was pretty obvious. And just as I was thinking that, a familiar-sized Frost Wyvern emerged from the stairs.


    "Raij¨±, go!"


    Among the shikigami I can summon, Raij¨± is the fastest, excluding some special ones. Even though there are several dozen meters between Asakawa-san, who''s about to be attacked, and the wyverns, Raij¨± can close that distance in the blink of an eye.


    "Kyahh!"


    With a sound like a thunderclap, Raij¨± instantly closed the distance and kicked the nearest Frost Wyvern in the face.


    My job was to summon shikigami that could take down the Frost Wyverns as I approached.


    "Mezuki, Gozuki, come forth."


    From the magic circle appeared two oni¡ªone with a horse''s head and one with a bull''s head. Each standing over two meters tall, the oni gripped their large axes and charged at the Frost Wyverns.


    In Buddhism, Gozuki and Mezuki are said to be enforcers of hell, punishing the souls of those who committed sins in life. Though technically not yokai, they are often treated as such in Japan.


    "A-Are those monsters?!"


    "Are you alright?"


    "Eep!?"


    Asakawa-san probably had no idea what was happening right in front of her, but I needed to get her to safety.


    The Frost Wyverns seemed startled by the sudden appearance of Gozuki, Mezuki, and Raij¨±, but in that moment of hesitation, Gozuki decapitated one of them. Among the shikigami I summon, Gozuki and Mezuki are among the strongest in raw power, so they won''t lose to the likes of a Frost Wyvern.


    "Who... are you?"


    "Hold on tight."


    Her body was frozen all over, and if she moved too much, it could lead to more than just bleeding. We would have to thaw her out slowly and carefully. But first, we needed to get out of the Frost Wyvern''s range. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "An ice spike is coming this way!"


    "It''s fine."


    Something like that can be easily blocked with magic.


    I cast a fire spell, and the ice spike heading our way evaporated into steam. With the wyvern''s attention now diverted, Mezuki split its body in two. Now there was only one left, and before I knew it, Gozuki had pinned it down while Raij¨± tore into its head, finishing it off.


    "Alright, all done. Let''s start the healing."


    "W-Wait a minute... I need to wrap my head around this."


    "? I''ll continue the treatment."


    There shouldn''t be anything to process here. The Frost Wyverns appeared, your life was in danger, but now you''re safe¡ªthat''s it.


    "Onmoraki."


    To help thaw out her frozen body, I summoned Onmoraki. According to legend, Onmoraki is born from the unofficiated spirits of the dead and is said to breathe blue flames. The Onmoraki I created, based on this lore, breathes fire. Maybe because of that, it has a warm body temperature, making it ideal for thawing the ice.


    "Don''t move. Kasha."


    I summoned Kasha, my usual pack mule, and retrieved some healing ointment from the bag it carried. This ointment, found in the dungeon, works fast but drains a lot of stamina¡ªso it''s a bit risky.


    "Thanks, Gozuki, Mezuki."


    After receiving the magic stones and fangs from the Frost Wyverns, I dismissed Gozuki and Mezuki and handed the items to Kasha.


    I ignored Asakawa-san, who was likely still in shock, and focused on treating her injuries. As Onmoraki''s warmth melted the ice, I applied the ointment to the wounds. This ointment can be used in everyday life, but applying two doses will make you drowsy due to the intense drain on stamina. That''s the one downside.


    "Um... Kisaragi-kun?"


    "Huh? You know me?"


    "We''re classmates, remember?"


    Oh, right. But this is the first time I''ve actually had a proper conversation with Asakawa-san, even though we''ve been in the same class.


    "You got here really fast after school, didn''t you?"


    "Huh? Well... I didn''t even change out of my uniform?"


    "Oh, you''re right."


    I did change, but Asakawa-san came here in her uniform. Is she addicted to dungeons or something?


    "Kisaragi-kun, I didn''t know you could come this far into the dungeon."


    "Yeah, I come here often."


    Though, I usually just pass through and head straight for the deeper levels.


    As we made small talk while I treated her wounds, Raij¨± approached us. It seemed there were no more monsters nearby.


    "Your wounds are treated... You should head back now."


    "Thank you... I''ll do that."


    The conversation felt awkward. It''s understandable for me since I''m a socially awkward introvert, but I''m not sure why Asakawa-san isn''t her usual self either.


    "W-Wait!"


    "Yes?"


    As I was about to dismiss Onmoraki, Kasha, and Raij¨± and head back to make my report, she suddenly called out to me.


    "U-Um... those creatures from earlier... what were they?"


    "Oh, uh... can we talk about it some other time?"


    For some reason, I''m not keen on explaining this to others. Maybe it''s because I''m an introvert.


    "Kirin."


    Not wanting to stick around while Asakawa-san searched for more words, I summoned Kirin and mounted it. Kirin, with the head of a dragon, the body of a deer, the tail of an ox, and the hooves of a horse, is a mystical creature, though technically a divine beast rather than a yokai¡ªbut that''s irrelevant.


    "Wait!"


    Asakawa-san called out again, but Kirin, following my orders, sped off, ignoring her. Though not as fast as Raij¨±, Kirin is still incredibly fast, and in no time, it carried me from the middle floors up to the upper floors and finally to the entrance of Shibuya Dungeon.


    "Y-You''re back already? That was fast!"


    "Huh? You mean Kirin?"


    "No, I mean... you''re back so soon."


    "Am I?"


    I thought I took my time on the way in, so I didn''t think it was that fast.


    "Ah, always so reliable."


    "Are you really grateful?"


    I handed over the Frost Wyvern''s magic stones and fangs to the branch manager, who greeted me with his usual suspicious smile.


    "Your shikigami skills are always impressive."


    "Just for summoning shikigami?"


    "I tried it myself recently, but I couldn''t manage it at all."


    He''s laughing to himself, but I just want to get this over with and go home.


    I''ve already explained to him that shikigami techniques require a specific innate magic affinity, which he lacks, so I don''t know why he hasn''t given up yet.


    "So, three magic stones... Were there three Frost Wyverns?"


    "There were four."


    "What happened to the other one?"


    "Another explorer took it."


    The branch manager squinted at me. What now?


    "A Frost Wyvern, huh?"


    "Is something wrong?"


    "No, I was just wondering if there were any other explorers in Shibuya Dungeon today who could take down a Frost Wyvern."


    "Why are you asking me?"


    "Are you really just a high school student? You should take some time to enjoy life, you know?"


    That''s annoying. How would I know... I haven''t had any free time. I came straight to the dungeon after school today.


    "We confirmed that one Frost Wyvern was defeated."


    "Huh? A stream?"


    He suddenly showed me a computer screen... Sure enough, there''s Asakawa-san and the Frost Wyvern.


    "It''s called dungeon streaming. It''s been popular among young people for the past few years."


    "Oh... Is that so?"


    "You don''t seem interested."


    Because I''m not.


    "Anyway, it seems your face and abilities have been exposed to the world."


    "Is that so?"


    "...I guess you weren''t really hiding it, were you?"


    Well, I left the name field blank, got labeled as "UNKNOWN," and never bothered to register my personal information, so I''ve never had any trouble with it. It doesn''t really matter to me.


    "Anyway, thanks for completing the request. The reward will be deposited, so don''t worry about that."


    More money piling up.


    Maybe I should have some expensive weapons or armor custom-made.

 Chapter 10 - 10: Thread 2: Rising Tensions

    655: Anonymous Explorer


    Wanna talk about Asagao-chan attempting the lower floors again, despite everything?


    656: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s what this thread is about, after all.


    657: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, how strong is that weird wyvern anyway?


    658: Anonymous Explorer


    Dunno.


    659: Anonymous Explorer


    Come on, aren''t all thread participants S-rank explorers?


    660: Anonymous Explorer


    No way.


    661: Anonymous Explorer


    Only the NEETs are.


    662: Anonymous Explorer


    That was probably a Frost Wyvern.


    663: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the knowledgeable guy here?


    664: Anonymous Explorer


    Nope, I have no idea.


    665: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾664


    Totally useless.


    666: Anonymous Explorer


    If you don''t know, don''t talk.


    667: Anonymous Explorer


    A Frost Wyvern sounds strong. (small-brained comment)


    668: Anonymous Explorer


    How would I know about lower-floor monsters?


    669: Anonymous Explorer


    I think I saw something like that on TV when an S-rank explorer was talking.


    670: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh, I feel like I''ve seen it before.


    671: Anonymous Explorer


    You guys actually watch TV?


    672: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾669


    I think I''ve heard about it too. Some rare monster from the lower floors or something.


    673: Anonymous Explorer


    No one''s talking about Asagao-chan''s classmate Kisaragi-kun.


    674: Anonymous Explorer


    Who cares about a guy?


    675: Anonymous Explorer


    The hardcore fans on social media are losing their minds. [Image]


    676: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾675


    Gross.


    677: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾675


    Falling in love with a high school girl, seriously creepy.


    678: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾674


    Looks like one of them is here.


    679: Anonymous Explorer


    This is a thread to talk about Asagao.


    680: Anonymous Explorer


    He was in Asagao''s stream, you know.


    681: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾675


    Fanboys going crazy, lol.


    682: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾679


    Are you one of those fanboys?


    683: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, I didn''t know there were explorers that strong.


    684: Anonymous Explorer


    Since she was saved by her classmate, they must be doing it already.


    685: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾684


    Die.


    686: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾684


    I''ll kill you, you piece of trash.


    687: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve never seen an explorer that strong.


    688: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t find any info on Kisaragi-kun, a third-year high school student at C-rank, on the Explorer Association''s website. He''s probably an explorer who''s hiding his personal information.


    689: Anonymous Explorer


    Then let''s try to guess which registered name he''s using.


    690: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾688


    No way he''s just C-rank with that strength.


    691: Anonymous Explorer


    But are there any high school students above C-rank?


    692: Anonymous Explorer


    None among those who''ve registered their personal info.


    693: Anonymous Explorer


    There are a few dozen at C-rank.


    694: Anonymous Explorer


    But none at B-rank.


    695: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s one at A-rank, though.


    696: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾695


    Isn''t that person a girl?


    697: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾695


    Let''s not talk about the Dungeon Princess.


    698: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care about personal info, but what were those creatures?


    699: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s using them, obviously.


    700: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s the only explanation.


    701: Anonymous Explorer


    But using monsters requires special items, and you can''t just summon and dismiss them like that.


    702: Anonymous Explorer


    What even is an Onmoraki? That''s not a monster.


    703: Anonymous Explorer


    Onmoraki is a yokai born from the spirits of the dead who weren''t given a proper burial. In other words, it''s a fictional creature!


    704: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾703


    You sound like a yokai expert.


    705: Anonymous Explorer


    Yokai?


    706: Anonymous Explorer


    This is so confusing, lol.


    707: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably "Shikigami Jutsu."


    708: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to summon a cool monster too, so I can crush everything while just standing back with my arms crossed.


    709: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾707


    What is Shikigami Jutsu?


    710: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾707


    Details, please.


    711: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t know much, but¡­


    712: Anonymous Explorer


    Just say something.


    713: Anonymous Explorer


    Relax. You probably know more than anyone else here.


    714: Anonymous Explorer


    Talk about Asagao-chan.


    715: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾714


    This happened in Asagao''s stream.


    716: Anonymous Explorer


    So it''s not off-topic.


    717: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s a brief summary:


    Shikigami are creatures created and controlled by your own magic. The strength of the created creature depends on the amount of magic power the user has. Once created, they can be summoned repeatedly. To create one, you need to have a detailed understanding of the creature.


    That''s about it.


    718: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾717


    Nice.


    719: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾717


    You know more than I thought.


    720: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve never even heard of that kind of magic.


    721: Anonymous Explorer


    It exists, so believe it.


    722: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾717


    If the power of the shikigami depends on the user''s magic, does that mean Kisaragi-kun is ridiculously strong?


    723: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to try Shikigami Jutsu too.


    724: Anonymous Explorer


    So cool. I''m jealous.


    725: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾722


    That''s right. The shikigami only has a fraction of the user''s power. But the traits of the shikigami vary.


    £¾£¾723


    Apparently, you need to have a natural talent for it.


    726: Anonymous Explorer


    Really? That sucks.


    727: Anonymous Explorer


    Then it''s definitely something else.


    728: Anonymous Explorer


    No way someone can create such powerful shikigami, lol. S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    729: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾725


    If this is true, Kisaragi-kun (hypothetically) could solo a Frost Wyvern.


    730: Anonymous Explorer


    No way...


    731: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s too much of a stretch.


    732: Anonymous Explorer


    Here we go with another tall tale.


    733: Anonymous Explorer


    Why am I being called a liar here?


    734: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s true, then Kisaragi-kun is a monster, lol.


    735: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t that super inconvenient to use?


    736: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾735


    It is. And since it''s a natural talent, nobody else can use it.


    737: Anonymous Explorer


    Then it can''t be that.


    738: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no way those buffed-up ox and horse guys were shikigami. Be serious.


    739: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it crazy that Asagao-chan soloed a Frost Wyvern?


    740: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just plain insane.


    741: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s definitely going viral.


    742: Anonymous Explorer


    Shikigami-kun is going viral too.


    743: Anonymous Explorer


    His name is Kisaragi-kun, by the way.


    744: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care about some guy.


    745: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re still here?


    746: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao-chan''s hardcore fans who obsess over her purity are hopeless. Asagao-chan is probably getting along just fine with Kisaragi-kun.


    747: Anonymous Explorer


    Die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die.


    748: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾747


    Lol.


    749: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾747


    Lol.


    750: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾747


    What are you, a kid?


    751: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to be a top explorer and get all the girls.


    752: Anonymous Explorer


    Become an explorer, get rich, and the girls will come to you.


    753: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾752


    That''s harsh.


    754: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾753


    Make enough money, and you can donate it all.


    755: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m gonna be an explorer and use the money to donate!


    756: Anonymous Explorer


    What an idiot.


    757: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ll probably die in the dungeon.

 Chapter 11 - 11: A Risky Promise

    I sighed as I looked at my bankbook, which kept growing even as I spent money. I know it''s not something I should be doing at school, but I recently bought a condo. I figured it was pointless to keep accumulating money without spending any, so I paid for it all at once and handed it over to a real estate agent...


    But yesterday''s reward and the money from the Frost Wyvern''s magic stone brought in a lot of cash again.


    I understand that the magic stone from a Frost Wyvern is valuable enough to generate a lot of electricity, but it''s not the kind of money a student should be handling. At first, I had a lot of distant relatives I''d never heard of suddenly appear, but now, that kind of thing doesn''t happen anymore.


    "Huh?"


    Wait a minute. If I made this much money from one Frost Wyvern magic stone, doesn''t that mean Asakawa-san, who got one too, made a lot of money?


    I should probably introduce her to a trustworthy tax accountant next time. She''d probably appreciate that more than just being taken care of in some other way.


    By the way, I feel like I''m getting a lot of stares from my classmates today... I wonder why. I heard something about my face being shown on some dungeon stream... Maybe that''s why. But is Asakawa-san really that famous?


    "Oh, good morning."


    "...Huh? Me?"


    I was about to put away my bankbook and take out a book to read, thinking there was no point in worrying about it, when someone spoke to me from the side. I didn''t expect anyone to suddenly talk to me at school, so I turned my head, surprised, and saw the person at the center of all this attention.


    A classmate with jet-black hair and equally dark, captivating eyes. It was Asakawa-san, the girl I saved yesterday while completing an assignment.


    "Thanks for yesterday."


    "Oh, uh... yeah..."


    Nope, this isn''t working.


    Don''t expect a vocabulary large enough to hold a conversation with the class''s Madonna from a socially awkward, introverted loner. Even if I did have the words, they wouldn''t come out of my mouth.


    "You''re Kisaragi-kun, right? I thought so."


    "M-Maybe you''ve got the wrong person?"


    Why am I trying to deny it? This is pathetic.


    "That''s not true. The Kisaragi-kun I met at school yesterday and the one I met in the dungeon had the same magic power."


    "M-Magic power?"


    "Yeah! It''s really serene and beautiful. The word ''quiet'' suits it perfectly."


    Serene magic power, huh... Even if you say that, most people don''t notice individuality in magic power. I''ve heard that some people with exceptionally good vision or a special constitution that makes them sensitive to magic can identify individuals by their magic power, but could it be that Asakawa-san is one of those people?


    "Well, I have a lot I want to talk about, so can we meet after school?"


    "Huh? Oh, um... I think that''s okay."


    I was told by the lady who handles my assignments that I could take a break since I''ve been taking consecutive requests, so it should be fine.


    But more importantly, why is that handsome guy glaring at me just because Asakawa-san is talking to me? Are they dating or something? He''s giving me a look that says he doesn''t like seeing his girlfriend talking to some unknown guy.


    "Alright, let''s meet in front of Shibuya Station!"


    "Y-Yeah."


    But of course, as a socially awkward introverted loner, I couldn''t possibly refuse the words of a sparkling, popular girl. Too bad... Someone, please help.


    Asakawa-san didn''t seem to notice and just left the classroom. This means I''m definitely going to get harassed by that handsome guy.


    "Hey, loser, don''t get cocky."


    "Eek!"


    Yep, I''m being harassed.


    He''s glaring at me with a clearly furious expression, looking like he''s one step away from punching me. Didn''t he say it was fine as long as I had an explorer''s license? S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What did you do to get Asakawa-san to talk to you? Are you trying to hit on her? Know your place."


    "I-I''m not trying to hit on her."


    "What?"


    "S-Sorry."


    Damn it. I reflexively apologized. I can speak normally to people I''m used to, but why am I such a socially awkward loner in situations like this? I wish I had better communication skills rather than dungeon exploration skills!


    "Tch! If I see you talking to Asakawa-san again, I''m gonna beat the crap out of you."


    "I-I''m sorry."


    "Someone like you doesn''t deserve to be talking to her. You understand what it means to be punched by a C-rank, don''t you?"


    Um... It''d probably hurt?


    No, that''s not it. So, does he mean... I might die?


    Well, I don''t know what kind of magic this handsome guy uses, so I can''t say for sure, but if it''s just physical attacks, I don''t feel like I''d lose at all. I guess he''s warning me that he might do something unpredictable. I should just nod my head to be safe.


    Looking somewhat satisfied, the handsome guy walked away from me. I don''t get it. But his friends were still glaring at me. Wow, Asakawa-san is really popular, huh?


    Not wanting to get harassed any more, I bolted out of the classroom the moment all the classes were over. Of course, I held back my full strength, knowing that if I put all my power into it, I''d shatter the floor tiles with my magic. It''s not something I like to brag about, but even without magic, I''m pretty physically strong, so I managed to escape school without being harassed by the handsome guy.


    I managed to get out of school, but I still have that promise to meet Asakawa-san afterward... I''m not really feeling it, but I made the promise, so I have to keep it. As a socially awkward introvert, I''m terrible at saying no.


    I''ll stop by the condo I own near Shibuya Station. I have a spare change of clothes and dungeon gear there, so I can just walk from there to the station. I originally bought the place to spend money and for its convenience to the Shibuya Dungeon, so it should be perfect.


    That said, what could Asakawa-san want to talk to me about? It''s probably about the dungeon, isn''t it? I saved her because she was in danger, but it''s the second time... Plus, I told her I''d explain the shikigami later, so I really can''t refuse.


    Well, whatever. It''ll be what it''ll be... It''s not like I have anything to hide, so we''ll just talk, and then we''ll part ways. After that... Since it''s a day off, maybe I''ll skip the dungeon. I mostly go to the dungeon for work or to relieve stress...


    I can handle going to the dungeon every day, but if I spend all my time working and then go to the dungeon for fun too, I''ll lose my mind.

 Chapter 12 - 12: A Cafe Date!??

    "Sorry to keep you waiting! I hope I didn''t make you wait too long."


    "No... I wasn''t really waiting, anyway."


    It kind of feels... like we''re a couple on a date. If I keep thinking like this, I''ll probably get punched by that handsome guy. I need to restrain myself.


    "You know, you can just talk normally?"


    "P-Please, spare me, Asakawa-san."


    "You can call me Nanami if you want."


    "Eek."


    I made the same sound as when I was threatened by that handsome guy. It seems like the fear of getting too close to Asakawa-san and the fear of being attacked by that handsome guy are on the same level for me. Well, getting too close to Asakawa-san will probably lead to getting beaten up by that handsome guy, so I guess it''s the same thing.


    "Well, whatever. Shall we go?"


    "Y-Yes."


    It looks like she gave up on that idea. If it were the staff at the Shibuya Dungeon, I could talk normally because I''m familiar with them... but I can''t talk face-to-face with people at school. I know it''s usually the opposite, but as a dungeon recluse, this makes sense for me. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Since we met in front of Shibuya Station, I thought she might take me to some trendy place where popular people hang out, but we ended up going to a caf¨¦ right in front of the station''s underground dungeon.


    This caf¨¦ is one I often use, where many dungeon explorers hang out. Regular customers hardly ever come here. It''s practically an explorer-only place, so the prices are quite high. Well, considering they use high-quality beans for the coffee, it''s no surprise, but they also have private rooms. Even though it''s a caf¨¦.


    "It''s my first time coming to this caf¨¦."


    "R-Really?"


    "Yeah? I mean, the money I earn goes toward tuition, food, living expenses... all sorts of things."


    "S-So you live alone, huh?"


    "Yeah."


    That''s kind of surprising. I always thought that someone as polite as her would definitely be living at home somewhere near Tokyo, but it turns out Asakawa-san lives alone.


    "My dad insisted on choosing a place with top-notch security since I''m a high school girl living alone... but it''s still expensive, you know?"


    "Well... yeah, that makes sense."


    I own a few condos myself, so I kind of get it, but not really. I mean, I only buy high-security, expensive condos. But I do know the general market rate for rent and such, so I understand how much a secure place costs. Lately, land prices are higher for places near dungeons than for those near stations.


    "Phew... It was hot outside."


    "...Yeah."


    "Hehe... Haha! You''re nervous, aren''t you?"


    "Sorry."


    Well, it is July, but I didn''t say that out loud. And I ended up apologizing reflexively. My lack of communication skills is really making me want to cry.


    Asakawa-san is laughing it off, but a normal person would probably not want to talk to someone who just keeps apologizing. Well... if she said that after inviting me out, I''d be so shocked I''d probably skip school.


    "There aren''t many people our age who are seriously doing dungeon exploration, so I guess I got a bit excited."


    "...What about that handsome guy?"


    "Huh? Who?"


    "Um... the guy in our class with brown hair."


    "Oh, Kurihara-kun?"


    Yeah, that''s right, Kurihara-kun.


    He''s a C-rank explorer like Asakawa-san, so I figured he''d be someone she could talk to. Has he been erased from her mind or something?


    "Well... Kurihara-kun is, how do I put it... complicated?"


    "C-Complicated..."


    "Sorry. I was trying to be polite... I''m not really comfortable around him."


    Poor handsome guy.


    "Being an explorer is dangerous, so not many people want to do it."


    "But there are a lot of people with the qualification, right?"


    "They only have it for the sake of having it, or they just stick to the upper floors. There aren''t many people who go as deep as the middle floors, like you and me."


    Well... that''s true. It''s a qualification you can put on your resume, so a lot of people get it even if they''ve never actually gone into a dungeon. Still, the government is probably just happy to have more qualified explorers. They keep track of how many people are actively exploring since the qualification needs to be renewed annually.


    About half the people in our class have the explorer qualification, but most only go into dungeons as a side job. The only ones seriously doing it are probably just me, Asakawa-san, and that handsome guy who''s supposedly C-rank.


    "That''s why classmates who are active explorers are really valuable. Can we exchange contact information?"


    "...Sure."


    "What''s with the hesitation?"


    She laughed at me again. But, wow, her smile is really cute.


    No, it''s just that as an introverted loner, I get all awkward when someone asks to exchange contact information. And she''s way too close to me, psychologically speaking, just because we''re both explorers. If she keeps this up, it''s easy for someone like me to fall for her, so she really should stop.


    "You seem a bit awkward in conversation, but you can respond normally. So why are you always alone in the classroom?"


    "...That''s a no-go topic for introverted loners."


    "Huh? Really?"


    "It is."


    "Got it."


    Wait, she actually understood that? I said it, but I couldn''t even convince myself with that explanation, so why does it make sense to her?


    "Sorry to keep you waiting."


    Just as I was struggling with my conversation with Asakawa-san, our drinks arrived. It seems she ordered tea, but I''m still a coffee person, no matter what. I do like tea, but if I had to choose, it''d be coffee.


    Whether or not I add sugar and milk depends on the beans, but I generally prefer it black. That''s my favorite.


    "..."


    "Is something wrong?"


    "No, it''s just... you ordered something pretty expensive."


    Well, coffee can be so expensive that you can''t afford to think about the price. But it''s not like I drink it just because it''s expensive.


    "I''ll... pay for it."


    "Huh? But I''m making pretty good money too, you know?"


    "You mentioned tuition and stuff earlier."


    "But we go to the same school, right?"


    She''s got a point... But I can''t exactly tell her that I''ve been sighing at the growing numbers in my bank account, so what should I do?


    "Well... if you answer my questions, I''ll let you pay for it."


    "...I don''t really see how that benefits me."


    "You''re right! S-Sorry."


    "No, it''s fine... I''ll pay. And I''ll answer your questions."


    I mean, the whole reason we''re here at this caf¨¦ is for me to answer her questions. Paying for the drinks and answering questions are separate issues.


    "T-Thank you... So, here''s my first question."


    "Go ahead."


    "It was you, Kisaragi-kun, who saved me yesterday and the day before, right?"


    So that''s what she wanted to talk about. But didn''t she already have a pretty good idea? She seemed confident when we talked in class.


    Well, there''s nothing to hide, so I''ll just tell her everything.

 Chapter 13 - 13: A Surprising Revelation!

    "There''s no mistake."


    "..."


    Huh? Why does she look so surprised? Didn''t she ask because she was sure?


    "It''s just... you admitted it so easily that it caught me off guard."


    "I mean, it''s not like I''m hiding anything."


    It''s not that I''m intentionally hiding anything. It''s just that explaining or registering things can be a hassle, so I haven''t really put any information out there, but I''m still a normal explorer.


    It''s just that explaining things is a hassle, so if I''m asked a question, I''ll answer it. Even the branch manager knows my real name and about my shikigami, though I haven''t mentioned my trump card because he never asked.


    "I see... so you''re not hiding anything."


    "Huh?"


    "It''s nothing."


    She seemed to have an idea about something... What could it be?


    "Can I ask the next question?"


    "Go ahead."


    Since I''m not hiding anything, it doesn''t bother me if she asks a lot of questions. Besides, after being saved by something unknown twice, I can understand why she''d be curious.


    "Those... things you''re controlling, what are they?"


    "You mean the shikigami? They''re creatures I created, so they''re not monsters."


    "Really!?"


    They''re not monsters, so they don''t have magic stones, and when they die, they don''t turn to ash. Because of their appearance, they can be mistaken for monsters, so I usually don''t summon them in public places, but it was an emergency when I saved Asakawa-san.


    "S-Shikigami, huh... Like an onmyoji?"


    "No, I''m not an onmyoji..."


    "Can''t you use spells or something?"


    "I can use magic."


    "I can use magic too."


    It''s just that creating and controlling creatures is called shikigami-jutsu, but I''m not an onmyoji, and I can use magic just like anyone else. Well, since my physical abilities are better than most people''s, I usually prefer close combat with a sword rather than using magic.


    "I see... so that''s a type of magic?"


    "Yes, since they''re created with magic power."


    The convenient thing about shikigami-jutsu is that once you create a creature, you can summon and dismiss it freely. You have to imagine it in detail to be able to use it, and its strength changes depending on how much magic power you put into it. If you create it properly, you can even give it a sense of self. My Raiju yawns like a big dog because I''ve given it self-awareness.


    "Does that mean I could use it too!? It''d be so cute to have a dog for my streams!"


    "Wait a second."


    "Huh?"


    I mustered up the courage to touch Asakawa-san''s hand. Wow... it''s so smooth. Are all girls like this? No, that''s not the point.


    "Hmm... if you work really hard, it might be possible?"


    "W-What do you mean?"


    "Shikigami-jutsu requires innate talent."


    By touching someone''s body, you can sense their magic power. This is common knowledge, but I was checking whether Asakawa-san''s magic power was suitable for shikigami-jutsu. That being said, there''s no clear standard, so it''s just a maybe.


    It''s about the quality of the magic power. Without the right innate talent, you can''t master shikigami-jutsu. It operates on principles entirely different from ordinary magic.


    "Innate talent, huh."


    "Yes. You wouldn''t be able to use it as freely as I can."


    "I see... that''s a shame."


    She must have been really hoping she could use it. She looks really disappointed.


    "''Raiju.''"


    "Huh?"


    I channeled my magic and summoned Raiju. This time, though, it''s much smaller than usual¡ªabout palm-sized. The little Raiju, summoned with a pop, looked up at me as if to say, "Why did you summon me so small?" But in this size, it''s not scary at all. S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "C-Cute!"


    "I guess I had the talent for shikigami-jutsu... so I can summon them like this whenever I want."


    "That''s amazing!"


    "T-Thank you."


    This is bad. I''m not used to being praised, so I''m starting to feel embarrassed. When the staff at the branch praises me, it usually just goes in one ear and out the other, but being complimented face-to-face by a girl like this makes me blush. If a beautiful girl smiles at you and says you''re amazing, of course, you''d be happy! Maybe I''m not as emotionally drained as I thought!


    "Raiju-chan is so cute."


    "...Don''t make that face."


    Is this what they call doting on something? Asakawa-san is stroking and prodding the little Raiju, her eyes sparkling, but every time she does, Raiju looks at me with a face full of displeasure.


    "Guess I have no choice."


    "Oh..."


    Raiju seemed really uncomfortable, so I dismissed it. Asakawa-san looked a bit disappointed, but when she saw my face, she seemed to remember that we were in the middle of a conversation and shook her head, clearing her throat.


    "S-So, next question."


    "Ah, okay."


    She''s pretending that didn''t happen.


    "You came to rescue me on the 41st floor, so are you C-rank?"


    "I wasn''t really there to rescue you... but let''s just go with that."


    At that time, Raiju was just following the scent of blood down to the lower floors. I had no idea Asakawa-san was on the brink of death.


    "My explorer rank... isn''t C, though."


    "Wait, you went to the lower floors without being C-rank!?"


    She''s got the wrong idea.


    "Asakawa-san, you''re C-rank, right?"


    "That''s right. I just recently reached C-rank, so I thought I''d try the lower floors, but I failed twice."


    So she streams, huh.


    Still, it must have taken a lot of effort to reach C-rank as a high school student... That''s pretty impressive. I''ve never bothered to rank up past E, so I can''t even imagine how hard it must be to reach C.


    "This is my explorer card."


    "...Didn''t they tell you during the training not to show your explorer card to others carelessly?"


    "Huh? But you''re fine, right, Kisaragi-kun?"


    Where does that confidence come from?


    The explorer card contains a lot of important information. It has your address, explorer ID, birthdate, and other details, so it''s basically a form of identification. You''re not supposed to show it carelessly.


    Should I take this as a sign that she trusts me, or is she just being careless? Definitely the latter.


    "Sigh... fine."


    I took out my explorer card from my wallet and placed it on the table. It has personal information that I haven''t registered with the Explorer Association, so I really shouldn''t be showing it, but since she showed hers, it feels wrong not to show mine.


    "Hmm... what? EX?"


    "Uh... yeah."


    "Like, that EX?"


    "Is there another one?"


    She looks incredibly shocked.


    Come to think of it, this is the first time I''ve shown my explorer card to anyone since becoming EX. Maybe that''s why she''s so surprised.


    I guess it makes sense, there are only four EX-rank explorers in Japan... I should have been more careful about showing it.

 Chapter 14 - 14: Why Did She Suddenly Ask Me?

    "Your explorer registration name is ''UNKNOWN''... Are you the unidentified EX explorer?"


    "Huh, I didn''t know I was being called that."


    "Yeah! You''re the only EX-rank explorer in Japan whose identity was unknown!"


    Now that she mentions it, the other three have openly shared their personal information. I don''t really know much about how I''m perceived by the public since the only other explorers I know are the other three EX-ranks, but I never thought I was seen that way.


    "...Why don''t you ever say, ''I''m an EX-rank explorer!''?"


    Is she referring to when I was getting harassed by that pretty boy? Well, Asakawa-san seems kind, so I can understand why she might want to say something like that after seeing me get hassled.


    "I''m just not that interested in explorer ranks... so I don''t usually tell people."


    "Then why do you still dive into dungeons? Your rank can''t go any higher."


    "...For fun and profit? Also, it''s my job?"


    At first, I enjoyed diving into dungeons because the deeper I went, the more money I made. But then work started piling up, and the money kept increasing even though I had no time to spend it. It got tiresome.


    "I see... Alright, then I won''t tell anyone."


    "Are you sure? I don''t mind if people know... Wouldn''t it boost your streaming numbers?"


    "Oh, so you knew I was a streamer."


    "I only found out yesterday."


    "I see."


    She''s giving me a look like she thinks I''m not interested, which I guess is accurate. It''s not that I''m uninterested¡ªI just haven''t gotten to the point where I could be interested.


    "So why is your explorer name ''UNKNOWN''? It''s not because you wanted to keep it a secret, right?"


    "...When I registered, I thought I''d just use my real name, but I accidentally left the field blank, and they filled it in with that."


    "Really... Haha!"


    "Please don''t laugh."


    "I can''t help it... Haha!"


    Damn it. It really does feel like a cringeworthy moment from my past. I never managed to change it, so it''s just been left as is. Now that I''ve gained recognition as the EX-rank explorer ''UNKNOWN,'' it''s too late to change it.


    "I see... Well, I''m glad I got to learn more about you, Kisaragi-kun. And, I know it''s late, but thank you for saving my life twice."


    "...It was just a coincidence."


    "Even so, I''m grateful."


    Ah... She''s a good person. She has a normal level of dislike for people and a normal ability to show gratitude. She''s a human with a genuine humanity who can care for others, which is rare among explorers who dive into dungeons where lives are at stake.


    "I see... So when the association''s website says, ''EX-UNKNOWN resolved it,'' it''s because you were the one who handled it."


    "Ah..."


    She''s probably referring to the notices the Explorer Association puts out when a lower-floor-class monster appears on the upper or middle floors, and they need to regulate the dungeon. I guess it''s true that out of all the EX-rank explorers, I''m the one who lives closest to the Shibuya Dungeon, so my name comes up often.


    Last month, when I dealt with some weird crocodile-like creature on the upper floors, I saw the branch manager typing the information into the computer.


    "...Hmm."


    "Huh?"


    Asakawa-san started humming in thought while sipping her drink through a straw. Does she still have more questions? I don''t mind answering whatever she asks¡ªit''s not like I''ll die from it.


    "Hey, do you have any interest in dungeon streaming?"


    "Dungeon streaming..."


    Is that what her streaming is called? I don''t really know how you stream inside a dungeon, but I understand now that she''s doing some kind of dungeon exploration as a broadcast.


    "I''m not really sure what dungeon streaming is, to be honest."


    "You said you just found out yesterday... Did you mean my stream or dungeon streaming in general? Are you not up to date with online stuff?"


    "Well... I do use social media."


    I mostly just follow the official accounts of the games I play, so I''m not really up to date with general trends.


    "Even though you''re EX-rank?"


    "Does that have anything to do with it?"


    I''ve only been an EX-rank explorer for about two years, so it''s not like I know everything. I''m knowledgeable about dungeons, though.


    "If you''re interested, I was hoping you could help me."


    "..."


    For now, I decide to look up dungeon streaming on my phone since I don''t really understand it. As an introvert, I''m quite skilled at pulling out my phone in front of others. It''s also a surefire way to get people to dislike me.


    A quick search shows that dungeon streaming primarily focuses on showing dungeon exploration, but that''s not all. There are streamers affiliated with companies and others who do it independently.


    "Are you affiliated with a company?"


    "I''m not. I started out just posting something like a dungeon exploration diary." Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I see. If she''s an independent streamer, then she could team up with me for a dungeon exploration stream. That makes sense. More importantly, Asakawa-san wants to go to the lower floors but has been struggling to make progress. She probably wants my help since I seem strong.


    "But you told the pretty boy that you wanted to do it on your own, didn''t you?"


    "That was just an excuse to turn him down."


    Sorry, pretty boy.


    "Alright. I don''t mind helping."


    "Really!?"


    "Whoa!?"


    I was startled. Please don''t suddenly stand up and grab my hand like that. You''ll make me fall for you.


    But seriously, if she''s the one who asked me for help, why is she so surprised that I agreed? Did she not really want me to come, or did she just think I''d refuse? Definitely the latter.


    "Thank you, Kisaragi-kun!"


    "Y-You''re welcome..."


    That said, our conversation has made me curious about something. It''s not something I need to know immediately, but I feel like it''s important to ask before we start working together.


    "Asakawa-san, I think you''re quite successful as a dungeon streamer."


    "...Well, yeah. I can''t exactly say I''m not, even if I wanted to."


    "You seem to have a lot of viewers, and I assume you get a significant amount of donations, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "So why risk your life to stream a lower-floor exploration?"


    I understand that as a streamer, you need to try new things to prevent viewer numbers from dropping due to stagnation. But is it worth risking your life for that? For example, couldn''t you try exploring the Nagoya Dungeon, which probably has fewer streamers, or the Kamakura Dungeon? I feel like I need to ask this before I can fully support her.


    "I''m challenging the lower floors because I''m an explorer. There''s no other reason."


    "...I see. That makes sense."


    Ah... I see she has a bit of a reckless side as well. I guess she''s a C-rank for a reason.

 Chapter 15 - 15: Suddenly a Dungeon Streamer?

    "Today, I''ll be testing some magic in the mid-levels of Shibuya Dungeon!"


    Asakawa-san''s dungeon streaming had piqued my interest, and after agreeing to help her, I figured it would be wise to familiarize myself with her content. So, I sat down for dinner and started watching her archived streams.


    Her combat style was impressive, as I had seen during her fight with the Frost Wyvern. She uses a spear while simultaneously casting multiple layers of magic, similar to a magic knight in games, but with an unusual level of expertise.


    ''Here''s a bit of my magic!''


    "Her ability to cast multiple spells at once is astounding."


    Watching the stream, I realized that Asakawa-san relies heavily on her ability to cast numerous spells simultaneously, which was beyond my expectations. I''m not bad at magic myself, but casting 20 or 30 spells at once would take me considerable time. Yet, she''s doing it effortlessly, like it''s second nature. This is undoubtedly a rare talent.


    I tried casting multiple small light spells at once, but six was my limit. Attempting to cast more resulted in unstable forms or fluctuating output.


    "Wow, with talent like that, no wonder she''s a C-rank. Actually, that''s pretty incredible."


    It''s clear that Asakawa-san is doing something remarkable, probably more than she realizes.


    "¡­Amazing."


    Moreover, her popularity as a streamer is off the charts. The real-time replay feature shows so many comments flowing in that they''re impossible to keep up with, and there are several viewers donating tens of thousands of yen.


    The amount of money isn''t the issue. Frankly, amounts in the hundreds of thousands are easy to earn even on the lower floors, but from what I can see, she''s one of the top streamers, no question.


    "Sigh¡­"


    Did I really say I''d help with someone like this? I hope I don''t get attacked by her fans or anything. Not that getting stabbed with a kitchen knife would kill me, but still.


    "I''m like Urashima Taro."


    I became a dungeon explorer right after entering high school, and it seems that in the meantime, dungeon streaming has become a huge trend. It looks like people from overseas are also doing it, and seeing dungeons abroad that I''ve never visited does get me excited. Though, I stopped watching because I couldn''t understand what they were saying.


    "I really am like Urashima Taro¡ªgoing into a dungeon, only to come out and find the world has completely changed." S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Let me be clear. It looks like a lot of fun.


    Most streamers, from what I can see, don''t seem capable of handling even the mid-levels of a dungeon, but even so, watching them enjoy exploring dungeons reminds me of my earlier days, and I can''t help but feel a bit envious.


    "Huh?"


    As I returned to watching Asakawa-san''s stream archive, a message notification popped up on my phone. Usually, the only messages I get are promotional ones from shopping sites, but this time, the notification was from "Asakawa Nanami."


    "¡­"


    I hesitated a little before unlocking my phone and checking the message.


    [Thank you again for saving me.]


    [Looking forward to working with you!]


    "¡­How do I respond to this?"


    I''m not used to messaging apps. The only contacts in my phone are work-related, and I don''t really have any proper friends. Sending a stiff, business-like reply feels wrong¡­ I''m at a loss.


    [You''re welcome.]


    "Am I socially awkward even in text?"


    I ended up criticizing the message I sent myself. Streaming seems fun, but if I don''t fix this social awkwardness, I don''t think I''ll be able to help properly. Maybe I should just rescue her when she''s in danger and then stay off-camera the rest of the time?


    [You seem nervous, don''t you?]


    "She noticed. How does she know?"


    [Will you be at school tomorrow?]


    [If you are, let''s have a strategy meeting after class!]


    [It''s a promise!]


    "Wait, these messages are coming too fast."


    I couldn''t even reply before the next message arrived. Do all girls type this fast?


    [What are you doing now?]


    "The topic just changed¡­"


    But I can easily respond to this.


    [I was watching your stream, Asakawa-san.]


    "Okay, sent."


    I don''t know why, but that feels like an accomplishment. Even though it''s not really an accomplishment.


    [That''s kind of embarrassing.]


    [But aren''t you a streamer?]


    [That''s not the point.]


    "I don''t get it. Other classmates said they watch her streams too, so why is she embarrassed that I''m watching? Am I being tested or something?"


    [You''ll understand if you try streaming yourself, Kisaragi-kun.]


    "Why is she using my first name?"


    I don''t think I''m that close with Asakawa-san¡­ Or is it just that the bar for friendship is way too high for a socially awkward introvert like me?


    "Streaming, huh¡­"


    After doing some research, I found out there are automatic cameras powered by magic stones. These cameras detect the subject''s magic and automatically track them, which is quite an impressive feat of technology. Naturally, they''re more expensive than regular recording equipment by at least an order of magnitude. I realized that dungeon streamers really do invest a lot in their craft.


    [What kind of camera do you use, Asakawa-san?]


    [I''m using the most expensive and durable one now.]


    [I used a cheaper one before, though.]


    "Well, of course. If she''s going to the mid-levels, it makes sense."


    I did some research and found out that her camera costs in the seven figures. I''m impressed that a high schooler would decide to buy something like that. I guess it just shows how much demand there is for dungeon streaming.


    "Sigh¡­ Maybe I should buy one too."


    I''m starting to get interested in dungeon streaming. Even if I don''t end up doing it myself, having a camera to record the dungeon would be useful. Especially when exploring uncharted floors, it would be handy to review the footage later.


    The camera I''d need should be highly durable and have a long battery life. After all, reaching the lower levels takes time, and exploring them isn''t a quick task. Some floors are so vast that I''ve even had to camp overnight. Of course, I could just turn the camera off until I reach the lower levels.

 Chapter 16 - 16: Info For Info

    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "...Good morning."


    As I was walking from the station to school, checking out various recording devices on my phone, I sensed Asakawa-san approaching from behind. It startled me a bit when she suddenly greeted me, but since I noticed her beforehand, it wasn''t too shocking... Well, except for the fact that it''s kind of creepy to notice someone''s presence like that.


    Everyone around us, dressed in the same school uniform, was giving us surprised looks, likely because Asakawa-san had greeted me. However, she didn''t seem to care, and I was too busy looking at cameras on my phone to pay much attention.


    "Oh, are you looking at cameras? They''re expensive!"


    "Well, the one you''re using is expensive too."


    "I saved up and worked hard to buy it. But... Tsukasa-kun, are you really thinking of buying that one all at once?"


    I am, actually. After all, I have more than enough money, so I might as well go all out and get the best. Of course, I''m not just looking at the price, if I''m going to start dungeon streaming for real, I need something high-performance. I can''t afford to hear complaints like "It''s impossible to film deep floors with this."


    "Are you getting interested in dungeon streaming?"


    "Yes. I need a high-performance camera to capture footage in the deep floors... What''s wrong?"


    "Huh, deep floors?"


    Why is she so surprised? If I''m going to film something, wouldn''t the deep floors be the most valuable footage?


    "If you really do it, it''ll be a big deal, you know?"


    "Huh? I don''t really get it... Are there no explorers streaming footage from the deep floors?"


    "Almost none, actually."


    Really? While the deep floors are generally accessible to A-rank explorers, with most saying it''s for S-rank only, I assumed there''d at least be some streamers.


    "Only one person has ever streamed from the deep floors."


    "One person?"


    "Yeah. It''s considered a legendary stream, watched worldwide, and the archive has over a hundred million views."


    She''s explaining this with such a serious expression. But I''ve seen S-rank explorers talk about the deep floors on TV, showing photos and such... Well, they probably had to prepare thoroughly before going there.


    "And that one person is an EX-rank."


    "Oh, the ''Disaster of the Dungeon,'' right?"


    "...What did you say?"


    "Huh? If it''s an EX-rank who streams, it must be her, right?"


    I was surprised. Please don''t shout like that...., it''s startling.


    "All the EX-rank explorers know each other. We even have each other''s contact info."


    "Oh, I see... I didn''t expect the ''Magical Princess'' to have such a nickname."


    "That''s another name she''s called by."


    Well, I guess they wouldn''t use "Disaster of the Dungeon" on TV. It''s nice that she has a cleaner nickname... though I still hold a grudge for the time she tried to pick a fight with me.


    We continued our casual conversation while walking into the school and eventually made it to class. It suddenly hit me¡ªI''m usually so bad at talking, but somehow I managed to have a normal conversation with Asakawa-san. Maybe I''m getting used to her?


    "So, Tsukasa-kun¡ª"


    "Huh?"


    Wait, did the atmosphere just freeze over? Did Asakawa-san use some kind of freezing magic when she walked into the classroom with me? The entire class is dead silent.


    "Hey, nerd. I told you not to get cocky."


    "S-Sorry?"


    Of course, it wasn''t Asakawa-san who froze the classroom, it was the presence of the class''s resident "handsome guy," glaring daggers at me as he walked over.


    "You said you understood what it means to get hit by a C-rank, right? So, you''re okay with getting punched now?"


    "I-I''m sorry... um, Kuribayashi-kun?"


    Oh no, he looks even angrier now. Did I mess up his name?


    "I''m gonna kill you!"


    "Wait, no! Don''t, Kuribayashi-kun!"


    "Oh, Kurihara-kun! Sorry about that."


    "What!?"


    "Tsukasa-kun, don''t provoke him!" S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Did you just call him Tsukasa-kun!?"


    At this point, I''m not even sure who''s provoking who anymore.


    Kurihara-kun seemed ready to throw a punch, and the rest of the class was pale with fear. Maybe Kurihara-kun is the type of explorer who relies on physical strength? If that''s the case, he might actually kill someone if he hits them too hard.


    "What''s all this commotion about!?"


    "Tch!"


    Just as I was caught between Asakawa-san and Kurihara-kun, not knowing what to do, our homeroom teacher arrived.


    "You, nerd. Meet me on the roof after school."


    "Uh, the roof is off-limits¡ª"


    "If you don''t show up, I''ll kill you."


    Yikes. He''s not listening to anything I say.


    But... I''ve already promised to meet with Asakawa-san after school. If I tell him that, he''ll definitely get even angrier. How can I get out of this...?


    I spent the rest of the day trying to figure out an excuse to get out of the rooftop meeting, but nothing came to mind. When the final bell rang, I still had no solution, and Kurihara-kun gave me a look that said, "You know what''s coming."


    But Asakawa-san didn''t seem to care at all.


    "Let''s go have our strategy meeting, as promised!"


    "Huh?"


    "What?"


    Neither Kurihara-kun nor I could react in time before Asakawa-san grabbed my hand and pulled me out of the classroom. Kurihara-kun ran out into the hallway, glaring at me, but it''s not like I had a choice here.


    We ended up in an empty classroom.


    "The teacher said we could use this room during club hours if it was free."


    "How did you manage that?"


    "I told him it was for dungeon research!"


    Well, it''s not exactly a lie...


    "What''s the plan for our strategy meeting?"


    "Hehe... First, I want you to teach me everything about conquering the lower floors!"


    Armed with a notebook and pen, Asakawa-san grinned at me. Well, I guess the fastest way to tackle a dungeon is to get advice from someone experienced... but does that really count as a strategy meeting?


    "And I''ll teach you all about dungeon streaming, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Please do."


    This is important. I''m not sure if I''ll actually start streaming, but it''s good to know the ins and outs. Considering she''s one of the top streamers, getting information from her is invaluable. And if all I have to do in exchange is share my knowledge of the lower floors, that''s a fair trade.

 Chapter 17 - 17: First Friend

    "Alright, let''s figure out how I can be effective on the lower floors!"


    "...That''s not something we can figure out at school, right?"


    "Y-You think so?"


    "Well, there are bigger issues to address first."


    Whether or not Asakawa-san can handle the lower floors ultimately depends on her ability to fight. It would be faster if we could watch her fight monsters in the dungeon, but having a theoretical discussion about it in a classroom isn''t going to be very helpful.


    To be honest, before we even discuss whether she can handle the lower floors, I think she lacks sufficient knowledge about them.


    The dungeon up to the middle floors is, frankly, like a paradise. Once you defeat the monsters, environmental factors pose almost no threat, and the monsters themselves are usually easy to kill with repeated attacks. But the lower floors are a completely different story.


    "I''m sure you''ve experienced this, but from the 41st floor onward, it''s like a dimly lit maze of caves."


    "Tsukasa-kun, you don''t have to be so formal, you know?"


    "...That translucent skeleton knight you nearly died to is a highly troublesome monster that avoids all attacks except for specific ones."


    Asakawa-san said something, but I ignored her entirely.


    When Raiju first went to help her, she was about to be killed by a translucent skeleton knight, the Skeleton Lord, a monster that nullifies all but certain attacks.


    "That initial surprise-killer skeleton''s astral body requires a strong magical attack to be properly hit. Basically, this initial surprise-killer skeleton just uses magic to thin and extend its body, so you just need to grasp it correctly." Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "...I don''t get it."


    "With your magical sense, I think you''ll be able to grasp it easily."


    Frankly, when it comes to sensing magic, Asakawa-san is far superior to me. I don''t have any way of perceiving magic like she does.


    "So there are lots of those down there?"


    "That initial surprise-killer skeleton is the strongest monster around the 41st floor, so you''ll be fine."


    "Are you sure about that?"


    "It''s not a problem."


    There are also frogs that keep regenerating unless you destroy their heads, but that''s something you''ll have to learn through experience.


    "Anyway, the key to survival in the lower floors is information."


    "But since no one''s really streaming dungeon exploration, there''s not much information available, right?"


    "...That''s true."


    Maybe that''s why exploration beyond the lower floors hasn''t progressed much. The Shibuya Dungeon is relatively well-explored, with progress up to the 74th floor, but in places like the Nagoya Dungeon, with its unique environment, exploration has barely reached the 40th floor.


    I don''t necessarily want the dungeons to become more crowded, but if it would reduce casualties, it''s worth considering. Maybe I should talk to the guild leader about it.


    "I really think you should start streaming your lower-floor explorations, Tsukasa-kun. That might give others the motivation to push forward too."


    "...Well, that''s true."


    "In that case, I''ll teach you everything about streaming. You can learn a lot while being my assistant... Is that okay?"


    Two birds with one stone, I guess.


    I can learn about streaming from Asakawa-san while giving her advice on the lower floors. That way, we both get closer to our goals.


    "Alright. But... I can''t do it tomorrow."


    "Why not?"


    "Well, EX-rank has its responsibilities."


    Oh, right. I have plans to visit the association with Grandma tomorrow.


    "Okay, so tomorrow''s a free day then."


    "Yes. I''ll still be at school, though."


    "That''s good. I''m glad you''ve been able to come to school recently."


    "...Yeah, I guess."


    Honestly, I don''t have many fond memories of school. Lately, Kurihara-kun has been giving me a hard time, and ever since I started hanging out with Asakawa-san, the stares from my classmates have been hard to ignore. Those who watch dungeon streams are beginning to realize that I''m the mysterious "Kisaragi-kun" who saved Asakawa-san.


    Even so, for Asakawa-san, school is probably a place she cherishes above all else.


    "Still... we''re graduating in half a year."


    "That''s thinking ahead."


    "Time flies by, you know? I wish I had met you sooner, Tsukasa-kun."


    "...I''m happy to hear that."


    From her perspective, I''m probably just a useful ally for dungeon streaming. But maybe she also feels like she could have made more progress if we had met earlier.


    "You''re really interesting as both an explorer and a friend, so I wish we could have become friends sooner."


    "...Wait, we''re friends!?"


    "Weren''t we!?"


    I''m more surprised than you are! I mean, I''ve never really had any friends, even before high school, and becoming an explorer only made it harder. I was convinced I''d live my life alone, so suddenly having a female friend is shocking. Do friends just form naturally like this...?


    "Friends... friends..."


    "Is it that strange?"


    "This is my first... friend."


    "Really!?"


    Well, someone like Asakawa-san, who''s liked by everyone, probably has lots of friends, but I never thought I''d have any friends, let alone a pretty and cute one. Life really is full of surprises.


    "I see... Your first friend. In that case, we should do more friend-like things together."


    "But I''m someone who only has dungeons and work as friends."


    "Sounds like you already have friends."


    "They''re not people."


    Talking with Asakawa-san doesn''t tire me out. I''m clearly talking more than usual, but I don''t feel exhausted when I''m with her. Maybe it''s because she''s a friend. The other EX-rank explorers aren''t really friends, so maybe that''s why it feels different.


    "Hehe, then let''s hang out somewhere other than the dungeon next time."


    "I''ll do my best."


    "You don''t have to try so hard. We''re friends, right?"


    She laughed at me again, but it wasn''t in a mean way... It was more of a warm, genuine laugh. Even though I''ve never had a friend before, I can tell she''s enjoying our time together. It''s strange, but I feel a little happy too.


    "Hehe."


    "Oh, Tsukasa-kun, you smiled too."


    Asakawa-san''s smile as she said that is something I probably won''t forget for a while.

 Chapter 18 - 18: Ex Rank Meeting

    The day after I had the strategy meeting with Asakawa-san, Kurihara-kun didn''t bother me at school. Well, that''s because Kurihara-kun didn''t come to school at all. Since he''s also an explorer, there might be various reasons for his absence... But considering his usual behavior, he seems like a pretty lousy person, so it''s probably just him skipping school.


    Not that I''m in a position to talk, given how often I miss school for official reasons.


    After casually chatting with Asakawa-san throughout the school day and then heading home, I changed into more comfortable clothes and made my way to Shibuya Station. I had received a text from Grandma saying she''d be waiting in a car to pick me up.


    "Grandma, long time no see."


    As expected, when I got into the fancy-looking car at Shibuya Station, Grandma was already waiting inside.


    "I''ve told you before... I don''t remember raising such an impudent grandchild."


    "You''re my grandma, after all. It''s just how I talk to you."


    "Good grief... Stop using titles that are both respectful and disrespectful at the same time."


    Grandma, who was waiting in the car, is my benefactor and mentor. She turned 67 this year, I believe. Her hair has turned completely white, but she still stands tall with no signs of age-related stooping, exuding an impressive aura. To be honest, I''ve often thought I want to grow up to be as cool as she is.


    "Driver, let''s get going."


    "Y-Yes, ma''am!"


    "...Is this driver new?"


    This car belongs to the Explorer Association, and the driver is one of their staff, but considering how nervous he seems in response to Grandma, he''s probably new.


    "Grandma''s not that scary, so there''s no need to be so tense."


    "S-She''s not... scary... right?"


    "Stop chatting and get moving already."


    "Yes, ma''am!"


    Seriously... Grandma always speaks so harshly. She''ll probably offer him some treats later out of concern, so she could just start off being nice. That said, since Grandma has been active since the dawn of the dungeons, I can somewhat understand why her words are so stern.


    As we drove, I glanced over at Grandma and noticed she was already dozing off. She''s a busy person who''s always in high demand, so I can''t blame her. Even though I admire her and want to become as cool as she is, I certainly don''t want to be the kind of adult who can fall asleep in a car like this.


    As I fiddled with my phone, the car soon came to a stop. The door was gently opened from the outside, and I stepped out to find that we had arrived at the headquarters of the Explorer Association.


    "Get out quickly."


    "Oh, you''re awake."


    For some reason, she let out a deep sigh.


    As Grandma urged me, I got out of the car and followed the Association staff member.


    The Association is run directly by the government. Its official name is the Japan Dungeon Exploration Association under the Ministry of Dungeon Affairs... In other words, it''s an organization under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Dungeon Affairs. That''s why they have such a grand and well-funded headquarters.


    "This way, please."


    I was led to a large conference room. Today, a meeting was to be held with several representatives of S-rank explorers and all the EX-rank explorers. By the way, the reason Grandma and I came together is that she was the one who wrote the recommendation for me to become an EX-rank explorer.


    "...Finally here, huh? UNKNOWN."


    The stern-looking man sitting at the very back of the conference room, right in front of the screen, raised his gaze and directed it at me. He''s Ryunosuke Shishijima, the president of the Japan Dungeon Exploration Association. I''ve always thought his name was a bit much with all the "lion" and "dragon" imagery, but at least his first name isn''t "dragon," so I guess it''s fine...


    No, it''s not really important.


    "I got here as fast as I could after school."


    "My apologies for the rush. Truly, I appreciate it... Especially since the Magic Princess won''t be joining us today."


    "Oh, haha..."


    The Dungeon Calamity, as she''s often called, is a free spirit who never keeps time or shows up to meetings.


    "Now that the three EX-rank explorers have arrived, we can begin the meeting."


    As Shishijima said this, he projected something onto the screen behind him and stepped aside.


    "First, I''d like to thank you all for taking time out of your busy schedules to be here. Especially the three EX-rank explorers... Ryosuke Aizawa, Kaede Jinguuji, and UNKNOWN."


    I glanced over at Grandma Jinguuji-san who looked completely disinterested with her eyes half-closed. I then turned my gaze to Aizawa-san, who looked like a tired salaryman-like old man sitting across from me, and he gave me a wry smile.


    It''s been a while since I''ve seen multiple EX-rank explorers gathered like this. We don''t hold these meetings regularly, and I''ve missed several due to other assignments.


    "The topic of today''s discussion is dungeon streaming."


    When Shishijima-san said that and projected the materials onto the screen, my mind went blank for a moment. Why would the Association gather Japan''s top explorers to talk about dungeon streaming? I couldn''t understand it. To me, dungeon streaming was just entertainment.


    "In recent years, dungeon streaming aimed at generating ad revenue on video platforms has become popular. The government sees this as a positive trend, as it doesn''t violate any laws and has contributed to a rise in new explorers, which had been on the decline."


    Well, I guess it makes sense... If dungeon streaming becomes popular, more people might be inspired to become explorers. And if they can make a living from it, even more people would be motivated.


    "However, there are also streamers who, distracted by their broadcasts, lose focus or engage in dangerous activities to boost their viewer counts."


    I think I saw something like that on TV.


    "This time, I want to hear your opinions on the future of dungeon streaming."


    Are you really asking us? The people here don''t even stream dungeons. I think you''re asking the wrong people.


    "Shishijima."


    "...What is it?"


    "Aren''t you asking the wrong people? I know absolutely nothing about dungeon streaming."


    She said it... Grandma, you didn''t have to be so blunt. Now Shishijima-san looks completely baffled!


    Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 19 - 19: Rules

    Grandma had already frozen the entire meeting room, or rather, Shishijima-san with her words, and I was left wondering what to do. Should I step in and help?


    "Well, I''ve recently... started thinking about trying dungeon streaming."


    "Oh, really?"


    Shishijima-san''s face clearly showed his relief. If only Grandma would show a little more consideration, Shishijima-san wouldn''t have to suffer so much... but then again, she''s always been like this since I first met her a few years ago.


    "So, UNKNOWN... Kisaragi-kun, you''re thinking of starting dungeon streaming?"


    "Well, it''s more like I''ve just gotten interested in it and am still in the preparation stage."


    "It''s rare for you to show interest in something. I thought your life revolved around dungeons, food, games, and sleep."


    "Even if it''s true, please don''t say it out loud."


    It might be true, but some truths can hurt when spoken!


    "We''ve observed the dangerous behaviors associated with dungeon streaming. Personally... I think regulating it might be one solution."


    "That wouldn''t work. While dungeons are technically national assets, we don''t have the means to fully monitor everything that happens inside. Besides, imposing regulations now would only provoke backlash and could result in a decline in the number of new explorers, which has just started to rise."


    I understand what Aizawa-san is trying to say. Although dungeon streaming can be made safer with high-performance cameras that allow automatic recording, the momentary distractions from checking comments or adjusting settings could prove fatal.


    It''s a complex issue. Considering Aizawa-san''s position as the head of the Explorer Union, it''s understandable that he might lean towards regulation.


    "What about other countries?"


    "Among the leading nations, the United States and Australia were the first to establish laws regarding dungeon streaming. The U.S. has opted for a fully permissive stance, while Australia has some restrictions but generally allows it."


    "So, we can''t be the only ones imposing regulations."


    Countries with a high number of dungeons are considered leading nations, and Australia, which quickly boosted its national power thanks to dungeons, is indeed proactive when it comes to dungeon-related matters. The U.S., often called the land of freedom, remains fully supportive. As for the other leading nations like the U.K., Germany, and France...


    well, they''re unlikely to impose strict regulations either. If Japan were to regulate dungeon streaming alone, it could potentially cause an outflow of explorers to other countries.


    "The issue isn''t with dungeon streaming itself, but with the dangerous behaviors that accompany it. Perhaps it''s a matter of insufficient awareness?"


    "Kisaragi-kun is right. We won''t regulate dungeon streaming itself, but dangerous actions must be addressed. We should hold mandatory training sessions for all explorers to raise awareness."


    Dungeon streaming has made dungeons more accessible, which has attracted more people, but it might also have dulled the sense of danger. Most of the viewers and streamers don''t even make it past the middle floors, so it''s crucial to instill a proper sense of caution. This isn''t really about dungeon streaming itself.


    "So, the official stance of the Association is that there''s no issue with dungeon streaming?"


    "Exactly. Kisaragi-kun, feel free to stream without any concerns."


    "Thank you."


    I still think they''re consulting the wrong group, but it''s reassuring to get direct approval from the Association. Once Asakawa-san is trained enough to handle the lower floors, I might start streaming the deeper levels myself. It''s a bit of an opportunistic way to put it, but with no one else streaming the lower levels of Shibuya Dungeon, it''s like sitting on a treasure trove.


    "Streaming, huh... I''m not interested in popularity, but if it helps with public relations, it might be a good idea. Why not have the Association hire official streamers?"


    "Even though we operate with some degree of freedom, we''re still a government agency, so that''s not possible."


    "Typical rigid thinking¡ªvery Japanese."


    That guy... I think he''s an S-rank explorer. Rumor has it that he''s been to the deeper floors several times with his party, and he''s somewhat known among the general public as well.


    "If you''re going to start streaming, I might make a guest appearance. I could say I''m your mentor."


    "I don''t remember learning much from you to be honest."


    "You ungrateful brat, after I taught you shikigami summoning."


    Sure, Grandma knows a lot and is knowledgeable, but I hardly remember being taught anything directly. Most of the time, she''d just hand me a book from the house and tell me to read it. Plus, she only got into it when she was younger but gave up because she didn''t have the talent for it.


    "Well then, I suppose that wraps up today''s meeting. As usual, the minutes will be sent to everyone. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out anytime."


    For S-rank and higher explorers, who tend to be quite busy, meetings are always kept short. Today''s meeting was no more than thirty minutes.


    Now that the meeting''s over, I should go check out cameras for streaming. I''d better look for some high-end ones in stores since I''m still a beginner.


    "Kisaragi-kun, if you''re looking for a camera, try this store."


    "Huh?"


    As I was about to leave the meeting room, Aizawa-san suddenly spoke to me.


    "I don''t stream myself, but I use some pretty good cameras for recording inside dungeons. I recommend this one."


    "Oh, thank you!"


    This guy really is kind.


    The Explorer Association is a government organization, while the Explorer Union is a group of explorers. It''s sort of like a labor union.


    The Union was apparently formed after the government treated explorers like slaves to collect dungeon resources, leading to a lot of casualties in a short time. The Union now serves to protect explorers. sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Since Aizawa-san is the head of the Union and an EX-rank explorer, it makes sense that he''d use high-end cameras for dungeon recording. Though, from what I hear, he''s basically a corporate slave, constantly buried in paperwork, which makes him the kind of adult I don''t want to become.


    With the store''s address Aizawa-san gave me in hand, I quickly left the meeting room.

 Chapter 20 - 20: Unexpected Turn Of Events

    After visiting the store that Aizawa-san recommended and purchasing a seven-figure magic stone camera, I felt in unusually high spirits as I headed to school. Recently, there haven''t been any high-priority missions, so as a student with an EX rank, I''ve had more time to attend school. I wonder if the receptionist lady at the association is somehow handling things for me.


    I should bring her a gift sometime.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Good morning, Asakawa-san."


    "...You''re in a good mood."


    Asakawa-san seemed surprised, but it wasn''t really a big deal.


    It''s been a long time since I''ve started something new, and it reminded me of the excitement I felt when I first became an explorer. I need to help Asakawa-san while also testing out my streaming equipment.


    "Hey."


    "Huh?"


    As I sat down, thinking about the days ahead, suddenly the handsome guy came over. I don''t think I''ve done anything today to warrant this, but why is he glaring at me?


    "I told you to stay after school yesterday, didn''t I?"


    "Well, shouldn''t you be saying that to Asakawa-san instead?"


    "What!?"


    Suddenly, he grabbed me by the collar. It feels like his violent tendencies are increasing day by day. It''s almost like he''s been influenced by some kind of monster.


    The other classmates seemed shocked that he grabbed me so suddenly, but most of them averted their eyes, likely out of fear of the handsome guy. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Make sure you stay after school today. I''m going to crush you."


    "I-I understand."


    "You''d better. If you try to run, I''ll hunt you down and kill you!"


    "V-Violence isn''t good!"


    Asakawa-san stepped in between us. While I personally appreciate her help, it might be a bad move considering the situation. The handsome guy clearly has a thing for Asakawa-san and can''t stand the idea of some introverted nobody like me getting close to her. Right now, he''s ignoring Asakawa-san''s words and is just glaring at me, grinding his teeth.


    "I won''t let you get away with this."


    "Wait, Kurihara-kun!"


    "It''s okay, Asakawa-san."


    Well, it''ll all work out somehow.


    After classes ended, I was called to the teacher''s office. Asakawa-san had already left with a quick "See you tomorrow."


    "It''s almost time for the final exams, so I''ve gathered summaries and key points from the lessons you missed."


    "I''m really sorry. Thank you so much."


    "Don''t worry about it. After all, you''re a busy explorer!"


    The teacher seemed oddly fixated on emphasizing how busy I was as an explorer. I wonder if they just don''t like students who don''t attend school regularly. Well, from a homeroom teacher''s perspective, there''s no reason to like it. Honestly, considering all this, I wish I had just transferred to a correspondence school.


    Feeling tired after being lectured for about 30 minutes, I decided to head home, only to find a message on my work phone in my locker.


    [You didn''t answer your phone, so I assume you''re in class. Please return the call as soon as possible.]


    The message was sent a little while ago, so if I call back now, they should still pick up. Without hesitation, I dialed the number.


    "Hello?"


    "Hello. What''s going on?"


    "Sorry to call during class."


    "That''s okay."


    As always, the familiar woman answered, but come to think of it, I''ve never actually called her by name. I''ve always just referred to her as "the lady," and I never thought it was necessary. But since I might be bothering her more often once I start streaming, maybe I should start using her name.


    "There''s a magical anomaly detected in the upper levels of Shibuya Dungeon."


    "...What''s the scale?"


    "+9."


    Devices installed in the dungeon can detect fluctuations in the dungeon''s magical energy, and when these readings deviate significantly, it''s called a magical anomaly. The readings range from 0 in normal conditions, with a maximum of +10 or a minimum of -10 in extreme cases.


    Several issues can arise from a magical anomaly, but when the reading is high, it usually signals the appearance of monsters far stronger than those appropriate for that floor. An anomaly of +9 means a situation that requires multiple S-rank explorers or even an EX rank, indicating the potential emergence of a high-level monster from the deeper levels in the upper floors.


    If such a creature appeared in the upper levels, it would be a massacre.


    "Have evacuation orders been issued?"


    "They''re being frantically carried out as we speak."


    "What about the other EX ranks?"


    "Jinguji Kaede and Aizawa Ryosuke are both in Sapporo right now, so..."


    "No need to continue. I assume she''s unreachable as usual."


    "You know her well."


    The last one is a total free spirit, so I figured as much. A few months ago, she suddenly announced, "I''m off to study abroad in the U.S.!" and left Japan without a word since.


    "I''m heading there immediately."


    "Thank you, Tsukasa-kun. I''m really sorry to rely on you so much, but..."


    "It''s fine. Leave it to me, Shinano-san."


    After abruptly ending the call, I dashed out of school. My classmates stared as I ran, but I didn''t have time to worry about that. I vaguely remember having some after-school plans, but the mission takes priority.


    I arrived at Shibuya Dungeon as fast as I could, without even changing clothes, and saw that the branch chief''s usual laid-back demeanor was nowhere to be seen.


    "Glad you could make it."


    "What''s the situation?"


    "There''s still only the anomaly, but no physical manifestations yet. Some explorers in the middle floors haven''t returned, and there are still those in the upper floors who haven''t made it back either."


    Even though they''re being contacted, it''s not always possible to return immediately from a dungeon. If they''re being attacked by monsters or are surrounded, it''s not like they can just drop everything and leave. Even when trying to evacuate smoothly, the monsters don''t care about our circumstances and could easily attack.


    It wasn''t exactly the fastest I''ve ever moved, given that I had to wait until after school, deal with some time in the staff room, and then take the train, but at least the monsters hadn''t appeared yet.


    As I was thinking about all this, another message came through on my personal phone.


    [There''s an evacuation order in Shibuya Dungeon, right?]


    "...No way."


    A bad feeling crept over me as I read Asakawa-san''s message. I quickly activated her stream from my smartwatch, and sure enough, the words "Live Streaming" were displayed on the screen.


    "Someone stuck in the middle floors is streaming during an evacuation?"


    The branch chief, too, looked at my device with a grim expression. I had seen Asakawa-san dash out of the classroom as soon as school ended, but how did I not foresee this happening?


    It can''t be helped. I''ll have to go save her, along with the other explorers who haven''t evacuated yet.

 Chapter 21 - 21: Boney Onslaught

    [Should I cut the stream?]


    [It''s easier to locate you if you keep it on, so please leave it running.]


    [If possible, could you gather any explorers nearby?]


    [Got it!]


    As I rode on the back of my summoned Kirin, I checked the list of explorers currently inside Shibuya Dungeon. Most of the explorers who haven''t evacuated yet seem to be in the middle floors, which means they might encounter the cause of the magical anomaly.


    Asakawa-san''s stream continued, but I ignored it for now since I was using it to keep track of her current location. Based on the data, there doesn''t seem to be any explorers in Shibuya Dungeon right now who are more capable than Asakawa-san. So, the plan is for her to assist the explorers from below, while I take care of things from above. That way, we can finish this quickly.


    I spotted some explorers battling monsters in the upper floors, so I summoned Raij¨± and scattered the monsters. The explorers, surprised, turned their attention to me.


    "Are you all okay?"


    "Hey, that was my kill!"


    "A full evacuation order has been issued for the entire Shibuya Dungeon."


    "What!?"


    Looks like they didn''t know. Well, if their phones were off, they wouldn''t have received the alert.


    Under normal circumstances, stealing another explorer''s kill would be considered bad manners, but this is an emergency, so it can''t be helped. First, I need to get these four¡ªtwo men and two women¡ªout of here. However, telling them to return to the upper floors when there''s a magical anomaly detected there would be more dangerous.


    "Follow me. It''s too dangerous to return to the upper floors with a magical anomaly detected there."


    "W-Where are we going?"


    "We''re heading to the middle floors. There should be other explorers who haven''t managed to escape yet."


    Judging by their appearance, these explorers are still unfamiliar with the upper floors, so they might feel uneasy about heading to the middle floors. But there''s no time to worry about that.


    "''Gozu'' and ''Mezu,'' protect these people."


    With Gozu and Mezu, who could even overwhelm a Frost Wyvern, these explorers should be safe. I''ll keep moving forward and clearing the path, just to be sure.


    ''Please remain calm. An evacuation order has been issued for Shibuya Dungeon.''


    : Asagao-chan is helping with the evacuation.


    : But isn''t the middle floor dangerous?


    : The problem seems to be in the upper floors.


    : The middle floors might actually be safer.


    ''Right now, an explorer I know is working on resolving the situation, so please stay together and move carefully!''


    : I wonder who this "explorer" is.


    : Have they ever collaborated before?


    : Nope.


    : Probably just a real-life acquaintance.


    Asakawa-san seems to be guiding people well, using the stream to help with the evacuation.


    I gathered more explorers in the upper floors and had Gozu and Mezu protect them as we moved into the middle floors.


    Within a few minutes, we had gathered all the explorers left behind in the upper and middle floors. All that''s left is to meet up with Asakawa-san, escort everyone to the upper floors, and our mission will be complete.


    "Oh, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "...Looks like we''ve got everyone?"


    At the highest level of the middle floors, the 21st floor, I met up with Asakawa-san and confirmed that all the people she had gathered matched the names on the list. Time to head back to the upper floors.


    : Is that Kisaragi-kun again?


    : So, he''s the "acquaintance"?


    : Yay, Kisaragi-kun, are you watching?


    "...Annoying."


    Oops, my true feelings slipped out. This is why netizens are... their jokes can be too much. I don''t dislike the banter itself, but it gets annoying when you''re the one being teased.


    "Uh, should I cut the stream?"


    "Yes, please. We don''t need to track your location anymore..."


    Since we''ve gathered everyone, there''s no need for me to monitor Asakawa-san''s stream anymore. Once we escort these people back to the upper floors, I''ll be the only one left in Shibuya Dungeon.


    Just as I was thinking that, a loud crash echoed, and the stairs leading to the upper floors were smashed to pieces.


    "...What should we do?"


    "Stay back."


    Everyone was stunned by the destruction of the only way back, but I had already sensed the murderous intent coming from the upper floor. It seems the monster in question appeared at the worst possible moment. Destroying the stairs immediately upon arrival... I have to admit, that''s clever.


    Emerging from the dust cloud, glowing red eyes pierced through the gloom. It was a skeletal knight clad in an elaborate, military-like armor, dragging a heavily ornamented greatsword. It looked like an even stronger version of the skeleton Asakawa-san had nearly been killed by in the lower floors.


    "I''ve never seen this monster before."


    "I-Is it going to be okay?"


    Oh, right. Asakawa-san has special eyesight that allows her to see magical energy. She must be shivering at the sight of the malevolent magic radiating from that skeleton. As for me, the presence of such a strong enemy made me smile for the first time in a while.


    "''Hashihime.''"


    I summoned the yokai Hashihime, a figure from Kyoto folklore. I recreated her as a shikigami with my own interpretation: the goddess who protects bridges.


    Hashihime doesn''t have exceptional combat abilities, but she can create a powerful barrier that prevents anyone from crossing a designated point. This is an ability I gave her during her creation.


    "Don''t let anyone pass behind me."


    Simultaneously, the skeleton knight, moving with a speed unimaginable for its heavy armor, charged towards us. The greatsword it had been dragging was now raised, poised to strike, ready to tear through the forested area of the middle floors. But I''m not weak enough to be hit by a mere fast attack.


    "''¨­mukade.''"


    I summoned ¨­mukade, a giant centipede even larger than the skeleton knight, which stood about two meters tall. But the centipede was easily deflected by sheer brute force. Even though ¨­mukade''s charge could crush monsters in the lower floors, it looks like this opponent is strong enough to resist it.


    "Saying that a skeleton has brute strength might sound strange, but that''s some serious power... In that case, I''ll counter with my own bones."


    A direct power struggle might not be in my favor, but I didn''t spend all my time in the corner of the classroom reading books on myths and yokai for nothing. Shikigami techniques are a wonderful form of magic, boasting infinite variations if mastered.


    "''Gashadokuro.''"


    The yokai Gashadokuro, said to be born from the spirits of the dead, appeared as a giant skeleton, just like the one before me. However, my Gashadokuro grows larger the more magic I pour into it. It''s the opposite of when I summoned Raij¨± as a small figure, but this technique is surprisingly tricky.


    "Crush it!" S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Gashadokuro, now over ten meters tall, responded to my command by slamming its massive hand down onto the dungeon floor.

 Chapter 22 - 22: EX-Rank Power Unleashed

    The powerful strike from the shikigami "Gashadokuro," summoned by Tsukasa Kisaragi, caused a tremor so intense that the other explorers standing on the same floor could barely stay on their feet.


    Even though this was the 21st floor of the dungeon, Asakawa Nanami, who had been watching the battle from a distance, found herself contemplating in a form of denial whether the tremor might have reached the surface.


    : Isn''t this way too insane?


    : Is this really just one person''s power?


    Asagao''s dungeon stream had not been cut. It wasn''t intentional; she had simply missed the opportunity to stop it. Faced with the overwhelming monster that suddenly descended from the upper floors, everyone except Tsukasa, the EX-rank explorer, was paralyzed by their instincts, which told them that any wrong move could mean death. Their bodies understood this truth even before their minds did.


    "...Tsukasa-kun."


    All Nanami could do was whisper his name like a prayer as she watched the battle between two monsters for the first time. The skeletal knight, a terrifying monster, emerged from the dust cloud at a speed that only emphasized how powerless Nanami truly was.


    "Tch!"


    Realizing in an instant that Gashadokuro''s attack speed wouldn''t be fast enough, Tsukasa dispelled the shikigami, wrapped his body in magical energy, and began to move. The skeleton knight moved at a speed that was impossible for Nanami or the other rescued explorers to track with their eyes.


    Yet Tsukasa deflected the massive sword with the back of his hand and delivered a kick to the exposed torso of the skeleton knight.


    "Gyuuki."


    As the skeleton knight was slammed into the dungeon floor, a monstrous being resembling an ogre with bull horns was summoned above it. Unlike Gozu, who wielded a weapon, Gyuuki grabbed the fleeing skeleton knight''s head and smashed it back into the ground.


    With a sound like grinding bones, the skeleton knight''s body sank into the earth, and Gyuuki followed up with a powerful punch, while Tsukasa shattered its arm with a well-placed kick.


    Nanami could only watch in stunned silence. Everything she had done as an explorer in the middle floors now seemed like child''s play compared to the reality unfolding before her eyes.


    : Infinite firepower, seriously?


    : Isn''t it unfair that he''s also personally strong?


    : Asagao-chan, shouldn''t you just run?


    : This is getting intense.


    : The viewer count is skyrocketing, lol.


    : This is turning into a legendary stream, lol. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Apparently, UNKNOWN is the one resolving the Shibuya Dungeon''s crisis.


    A random comment caught Nanami''s eye, making her realize that Tsukasa Kisaragi''s identity as UNKNOWN had been exposed. Panicking, she hurriedly cut the stream and immediately regretted it. Although Tsukasa had said he didn''t mind if people knew, Nanami understood that once unknown information became known, it could cause complications.


    While Nanami worried about this, Tsukasa raised his palm towards the skeleton knight that had started to flee again. With a surge of magical energy that made the air tremble, a beam of light shot from Tsukasa''s hand, piercing the skeleton knight''s torso in the blink of an eye.


    "Ah."


    With a collapsing sound, the skeleton knight fell to its knees, only to be grabbed by Gyuuki and thrown into the air.


    "Kama-itachi."


    As a weasel-like creature appeared on Tsukasa''s shoulder and lashed its tail, the airborne skeleton knight was sliced into pieces. Tsukasa then mercilessly crushed the skull that rolled to his feet. As the skull shattered, the scattered bones of the skeleton knight turned to ash and vanished, leaving behind only a large magic stone at Tsukasa''s feet.


    "Phew."


    Gyuuki, Kama-itachi, and Hashihime disappeared, leaving only Gozu and Mezu standing guard over Nanami and the others. Despite the intense battle and the repeated summoning of shikigami, Tsukasa showed no signs of exhaustion. Watching this, Nanami felt a chill of fear run through her.


    To Nanami, Tsukasa Kisaragi was a lifesaver and a new explorer friend she had made at school. But now, she was forced to recognize that the person standing before her was none other than the EX-rank "UNKNOWN," one of Japan''s highest combat assets.


    "Are you hurt?"


    "...N-No."


    Nanami wasn''t the only one frozen in fear; the other rescued explorers were also paralyzed, their eyes filled with incomprehension as they stared at the overwhelming power they had just witnessed. Tsukasa, the one who should have been the focus of their gazes, showed no signs of being affected by their reactions.


    Just this behavior alone made Nanami understand why Tsukasa kept his distance from others.


    "Th-Thank you, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "...You''re welcome?"


    When Tsukasa heard his name and the words of gratitude, he appeared momentarily puzzled before giving a small, wry smile and tilting his head.


    Nanami could sense the void left in Tsukasa by the loneliness he carried as an explorer and a person. That was why she silently vowed to herself that, no matter what, she would remain his friend.


    "Well, let''s head back. The upper and top floors are safe now."


    "But the stairs are broken, right?"


    "I''ll figure something out."


    Tsukasa smiled as he took out his phone and, with practiced ease, started a call.


    "Hello, I''ve finished here... No, it wasn''t that fast. By the way, the stairs connecting the 21st and 20th floors have collapsed. How long will it take to repair them?"


    Repairing a collapsed dungeon isn''t something humans can do. The dungeons, whose origins and existence remain a mystery, function as if they were alive, creating monsters and automatically repairing themselves. However, since a total collapse of the stairs is rare, even Tsukasa couldn''t estimate how long the repair might take.


    "You don''t know? Then I''ll just make my own path."


    Watching Tsukasa''s back as he talked on the phone, Nanami steeled herself with a newfound resolve. If she wanted to ensure that Tsukasa Kisaragi was never alone, she needed to become stronger.


    Nanami was a smart person. She understood that wishing for what she couldn''t have was pointless, and she realized that she wouldn''t be able to manipulate shikigami like Tsukasa. So what should she aim for? In her mind, the image of Tsukasa casting an overwhelming spell during the battle with the skeleton knight was burned into her memory.


    That was the level she needed to reach, she thought to herself with a nod.


    "Hey, Tsukasa-kun...?"


    "Hmm?"


    While Nanami was deep in thought, Tsukasa had finished his call and was now placing his hand on the ground, creating a massive magic circle. When he noticed Nanami calling his name, he turned around, revealing the sight of the ground rising and forming a series of rock stairs. Nanami was at a loss for words.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "...The road ahead is long."


    Seeing the difference between herself and an EX-rank yet again, Nanami could only let out a deep sigh.

 Chapter 23 - 23: UNKNOWN Revealed

    "Man, that was a lifesaver."


    To be honest, I felt like I got roped into a pretty troublesome task. I didn''t mind running around to save my first-ever friend, but right now, I''m really annoyed by the branch chief''s laid-back attitude. It''s tempting to punch him.


    "Still, a magic anomaly of +9 brings out monsters like that, huh?"


    "You didn''t know?"


    "I didn''t. I knew you guys had to deal with some nasty stuff out there, but I''d never actually seen one of those monsters caught on camera."


    I see. Dungeon streaming could be used to capture footage like that¡­ Not that I''m particularly interested in taking on that role myself.


    "I just updated the Association''s homepage with the news that ''EX-UNKNOWN has resolved the issue.'' But writing that¡­ it does mean the Association is officially recognizing Kisaragi Tsukasa as UNKNOWN."


    "I don''t mind."


    I have no intention of officially registering my personal information, but I''m not particularly concerned if people find out I''m an EX-ranked explorer. Maybe I''ll get some long-lost relatives popping up out of nowhere, but they can be ignored.


    "I see¡­ Well, good work as always. I''ll deposit the payment into your usual account."


    "Yeah¡­ thanks."


    "By the way, your cute girlfriend is waiting for you at the entrance."


    "We''re just friends."


    How rude. Asakawa-san can choose who she wants to date.


    As I was muttering this to myself, grumbling about the chief''s assumption, I spotted Asakawa-san leaning against the wall, staring at her phone with a pale face.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Ts-Tsukasa-kun¡­ because of me, everyone found out!"


    She showed me her phone screen, where "UNKNOWN" was trending at the top of social media. Even my name, Kisaragi Tsukasa, and Asagao''s name were trending, causing quite a stir online.


    "I''ve been bombarded with messages from friends¡­ and now everyone at school knows¡­ What should I do?"


    "It''s fine. The teachers already knew."


    "That''s not the issue here!"


    Even if my classmates find out, it won''t change my daily life. It''s not like being a super-powerful secret EX-rank explorer is going to suddenly make me popular or cure my social awkwardness. Nothing''s going to change.


    At least, that''s what I thought¡­


    "Hey, isn''t that¡­"


    "He''s the EX-rank, right?"


    "So that''s why he''s been missing school so much. Makes sense now."


    "Yeah, with that much time off, anyone else would have been held back."


    They''re really gossiping about me!


    I mean, it''s natural to talk about someone when they''re suddenly the center of attention.


    "Good morning, Kisaragi-kun!"


    "Morning. You''re here again today, huh?"


    "We''re friends, right?"


    "Ha¡­ haha¡­"


    For some reason, I suddenly gained a bunch of new friends, both guys and girls. I could swear I saw money signs in a few of their eyes, like they were my long-lost relatives coming out of the woodwork.


    Since Asakawa-san hadn''t arrived yet, I was left sitting at the edge of the classroom, feeling like I was on pins and needles with everyone''s eyes on me.


    "I always thought you were kinda cool." S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I always knew you were a good person."


    "And you''re really good-looking, too."


    Don''t underestimate the eavesdropping abilities of an introvert. I can hear everything. And by the way, I also remember you calling me creepy just yesterday!


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun."


    "Good morning¡­"


    "This is rough, huh?"


    Finally, my savior, Asakawa-san, showed up and spoke to me with a wry smile. With her arrival, at least half of the gazes shifted to her, easing my burden a bit. I started wondering why a mission didn''t come up today, sparing me from school, but then I thought about how kind Asakawa-san is¡­ Is she the embodiment of all the world''s goodness?


    "Good morning, Nanami!"


    "G-Good morning!"


    "Were you okay yesterday? I watched the stream, and I was really worried about you."


    "Thanks. But I''m fine, thanks to someone helping me."


    Asakawa-san was chatting with a friend of hers who had just arrived. Even as they talked, her friend kept glancing at me. Introverts might be overly self-conscious, but they''re especially sensitive to being stared at, so I''m sure it''s not just my imagination.


    "Um¡­"


    "¡­Yes?"


    Just as I was thinking about how annoying this was, she spoke to me directly.


    "I also have an explorer''s license. Do you think I can make it?"


    "¡­Well, I''m not sure."


    That''s¡­ not really something I can answer.


    I don''t really understand what she means by "make it," but from a personal perspective, I think anyone who has a license and puts in the effort can probably reach the lower floors. But I don''t think that''s the kind of answer she''s looking for.


    "Akari, you''re making Tsukasa-kun uncomfortable."


    "Oh, come on, just a little chat. I''m Akari Nonohara. Nice to meet you."


    "Yoroshiku, onegaishimasu."


    "Heh¡­ so formal."


    Asakawa-san, please stop laughing and help me out here.


    "By the way, I''d ignore those people who suddenly say they''ve always thought you were cool."


    "I know that."


    "Good. You''re more interesting than I thought, Kisaragi-kun."


    I''ll keep Nonohara-san''s advice in mind. I''m well aware that anyone who says things like that is likely trouble. Don''t underestimate introverted geeks¡ªwe may be bad at receiving affection, but we''re experts at detecting when it comes with ulterior motives.


    My immediate response earned me a laugh from both Nonohara-san and Asakawa-san.


    "Hey."


    As we were chatting, the atmosphere shifted as Ikemen-kun stormed over, kicking a desk loudly.


    "I told you not to get cocky!"


    He kicked the desk again. It''s not right to treat school property like that. Ikemen-kun, you''re an explorer, you should know better than to break the desk into pieces.


    "Today, I''m gonna kill you."


    Wait, did he just threaten me? Should I call the cops?

 Chapter 24 - 24: Showdown

    Why has it come to this? I have no idea.


    "Die."


    Right now, I''m standing in the upper floors of the Shibuya Dungeon, with Ikemen-kun brimming with murderous intent in front of me. Even though he threatened me with death before class, he didn''t do anything afterward, so I thought it was all talk. But when I entered the dungeon as promised with Asakawa-san, he ambushed me.


    Explorers are generally prohibited from using magic outside of dungeons, as it can lead to charges of assault or attempted murder. And while intentionally trying to kill someone in a dungeon is obviously a crime, there are no surveillance cameras here, and if you use flashy magic, it''s hard to distinguish it from monster damage.


    It''s said that some people have actually used dungeons to commit murder. However, since every entry and exit is logged by showing your Explorer card, anyone with a personal grudge can be easily caught. So, I think the stories about dungeon murders are probably just rumors. S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You should probably just run and report this."


    "Yeah, I''ll call it in right away."


    Despite the chaos, there are police officers who are qualified explorers, and they handle these kinds of cases inside dungeons. They''re part of a police force made up of people who have explorer licenses and a certain level of skill, and they respond to reports of incidents within the dungeon.


    "Uh¡­ what was the number to report a dungeon incident again?"


    "Wasn''t it 220 or something?"


    "I''ll kill you!"


    Whoa, just as I was about to make the call, he suddenly rushed at me with a punch.


    I hadn''t noticed, but there were two girls and two boys, part of Ikemen-kun''s entourage, standing around. If they get caught doing this, they could get expelled or even arrested. Why would they stick by him in such a situation?


    I pushed Asakawa-san back and caught Ikemen-kun''s fist, twisting his arm behind him.


    "Gah!?"


    "Calm down, Kuri¡­hara-kun."


    "I''ll kill you."


    I got your name right this time!


    He started flailing his other arm, so I grabbed that one too and pinned him to the ground of the dungeon. His face was bright red with anger.


    "Die!"


    Lightning crackled from Ikemen-kun''s hand, so I let go and backed away. A punch could still be dismissed as fooling around, but using magic crosses the line into a serious incident. I''ll respond accordingly.


    He started laughing and activating his magic, causing his body to crackle with electricity. Is he powering up his physical abilities or something?


    "If it weren''t for you, I would''ve been the top at school!"


    "Being the best explorer doesn''t make you the best at school."


    "Shut up!"


    Scary. His movements are a bit faster now, but to me, who was born with enhanced reflexes due to my magic power, he still looks slow. I pride myself on being able to track supersonic speeds with my eyes. And compared to my grandma, who''s much faster, this is nothing.


    I dodged his reckless punch and carefully struck him in the side to avoid breaking any bones. He went flying into a wall, but I''m pretty sure he''s just bruised, nothing serious.


    "Why¡­ why can''t I¡­"


    "What?"


    "You¡­ you''re just a tool-using weakling¡­"


    Where''s he getting that from? But at least he''s realized the difference in our abilities after just one hit. That''s the mark of someone who''s reached C-rank¡ªthey understand when they''re outmatched.


    By the way, while Shikigami magic is powerful and versatile, I''m actually better at fighting with my own body. More specifically, I''m good at fighting alongside the Shikigami I summon. I don''t really enjoy standing back and watching the battle from afar.


    "What are you doing, Shunsuke?"


    "¡­Are you recording this?"


    "N-no, this is just¡­"


    One of Ikemen-kun''s male entourage members was pointing his phone at us, and when I asked, he stammered. Judging by his reaction¡­ probably a live stream?


    If it is a live stream, that''s a bit of a hassle¡­ I don''t want any unnecessary trouble since I''m an EX-rank explorer. I don''t want to be seen as someone who bullies weaker people.


    "Eep!"


    When I shifted my gaze from Ikemen-kun to his friend, the guy panicked and backed away. I wasn''t even glaring that hard.


    "S-screw this¡­ I''m not done with you¡­ I''ll never accept this!"


    "Do you understand the difference between us now?"


    He seems to grasp the difference, yet he''s still trying to fight. If this goes on, I''m really going to end up breaking a few bones.


    "Hey, Tsukasa-kun."


    "What is it?"


    "Can''t you restrain him somehow?"


    Restrain¡­ does she mean with magic or a Shikigami?


    "I''m good at killing, but I''m really bad at capturing people alive. I''m not skilled with that kind of delicate work."


    "¡­I''ll do it then."


    "I''m sorry."


    I''m really sorry. Because I''ve had so little interaction with people, I''m not used to this kind of thing. I''ve never needed to capture a monster alive, and it''s easier to just fight alongside my Shikigami. I''ve never learned how to use those kinds of stalling spells. I probably could if I studied from scratch, though.


    "Aaaaaargh!"


    The crackling from Ikemen-kun''s body intensified as he charged at me again, even faster than before. But I can still easily keep up by enhancing my physical abilities with magic.


    I tripped him, grabbed his neck, and flung him into the dungeon wall. He made a sound like a crushed frog and slumped against the wall.


    "¡­My hand feels tingly."


    "Well, you did grab lightning with your bare hands."


    "My clothes are insulated, so it''s fine."


    When I touched his neck, I realized Ikemen-kun''s crackling was his magic power converted into electricity. He''s probably using it to forcibly enhance his physical abilities, which explains the speed boost.


    My outfit isn''t as heavy as the armor most explorers wear, but it''s made from materials obtained from deep-dungeon monsters, so it''s insulated and fire-resistant. I''m fine, but producing that much electricity must be taxing on Ikemen-kun.


    "So, how long are you planning to keep filming?"


    "Eek!"


    When I glared at him, he tried to run, so I summoned Hashihime to block the passage. He immediately collapsed on the spot. Now, I guess we just wait for the police to arrive.

 Chapter 25 - 25: Stream Training

    "Sorry for dragging you into this."


    "It''s okay... It''s partly my fault too."


    After dealing with the police and their questioning, we were let go fairly quickly thanks to the live stream that had captured the whole incident. Originally, I had planned to train Asakawa-san today, but since it was already getting late, we decided to postpone it for another day.


    Even though Asakawa-san might have been the initial reason Kurihara-kun started picking on me, I think the real cause was my repeated refusal to meet him afterward. Skipping those meetings, even if I had valid reasons like being called away by Asakawa-san or dealing with the dungeon emergency, wasn''t something I should just brush off.


    "So, um... Is everything okay with the stream?"


    "Huh? Oh... Well, it''s already out there, so I guess it doesn''t really matter anymore."


    After appearing in a few of Asakawa-san''s streams and the recent one filmed by Kurihara-kun''s group, my face, name, and school uniform are probably all public now, but I don''t really see that as a problem. I''m probably one of the few famous explorers who''s managed to keep their identity a secret for this long.


    "But now that everything''s out in the open, I guess there''s an upside, I can stream without worrying about hiding anything."


    "That''s a positive way to look at it."


    "If I don''t stay positive, I''d never stop feeling down."


    Dwelling on the negatives won''t solve anything, and I decided on the day I became an explorer to stop wallowing in such thoughts. For better or worse, becoming an explorer changed me from just a gloomy loner.


    "So, let''s practice your streaming tomorrow and continue my training!"


    "...If no urgent work comes up, that is."


    "I know, I know!"


    I sighed, thinking how I''ve gotten involved in so many things lately. But honestly, since meeting Asakawa-san and becoming friends, I''ve found exploring dungeons to be a lot more fun, even with all the extra trouble.


    As promised, the day after the incident, we started with some streaming practice and Asakawa-san''s training. While she called it after school, I''d been on a mission since morning, heading to Kofu Dungeon and finishing up before coming back to Shibuya Dungeon. So, it wasn''t really "after school" for me.


    We''re currently in the upper floors, setting up the camera for the streaming practice.


    "You bought a pretty expensive one."


    "An EX-rank I know recommended it to me. He said it''s great for recording."


    "Huh... Since there are only four EX-rankers, including you, it''s a three-choice quiz to figure out who that was."


    True. I guess it''s her way of saying there''s no point in dodging the truth.


    As expected from a streamer, she could tell just by looking that the camera was expensive. I, on the other hand, couldn''t tell the difference, so I just asked the store clerk for a camera suitable for dungeon use, regardless of the price. The clerk''s surprised face when I said that and then paid with a card was amusing.


    "Well, anyway... Your combat style involves supporting from the rear with Shikigami, right?"


    "In the lower floors, I tend to fight more directly. Sometimes it''s faster to act than to think."


    "I see... Then, instead of tracking you closely, it might be better to capture you from a bit of a distance."


    I''m not sure how good the tracking is, but even if it could keep up with me moving at supersonic speeds, the footage would likely be a blur.


    "Alright, that should do it. Now, let''s set it up online... and there, it''s live now."


    "People can watch it already?"


    "Nope, it''s still set to private, so only you and I can see it."


    Oh, I see... I didn''t know there was such an option.


    As a complete beginner, I barely understand half of what Asakawa-san is explaining, but I need to make sure I remember everything.


    "Okay, just fight as you normally would!"


    "Alright. ''Kasha.''"


    Since I''d normally obliterate the upper-floor monsters by summoning a Shikigami, I''ll just handle this myself. I summon Kasha and draw the sword from the cart. I didn''t think I''d need it today, so I had stored it away.


    "It''s Goblins."


    Just as Asakawa-san said, there are about ten Goblins up ahead. Unlike the black-skinned, machete-wielding Goblins in the top floors, these have red, dark skin and carry various weapons like swords and spears. They''re considered a higher-ranking species of Goblin. While their official name is just "Red Goblin," explorers often refer to them as Hobgoblins, like in video games.


    "Screech!"


    "Well then..."


    The Hobgoblin at the front noticed us, but at this distance, it''s well within my reach. Before they can even prepare for battle, I take down three with a single swing, and as I continue the motion, I slice the remaining seven in half.


    "How''s that?"


    "...Maybe I should have pulled back a bit more for a wider shot?"


    Asakawa-san raised her head from her phone, where she was checking the camera settings, and gave me a wry smile. If pulling back is better, it means the footage didn''t come out great. I''ll have to review my own recording later.


    "Even if they''re Hobgoblins, you took them down in a second..."


    "Once you get used to it, it''s easy. Their movements are sluggish... Weren''t you using a spear, Asakawa-san?"


    If she''s using a spear, it should be even easier for her to handle Hobgoblins. Plus, with her ability to cast ten spells simultaneously, she could probably wipe them out in an instant.


    "Now that we''ve done the fine-tuning, let''s move to the mid-level floors."


    "O-okay... Watching you earlier, I''m starting to get nervous about this training."


    "Huh? Don''t worry... Everyone goes through it."


    "That''s not reassuring at all!"


    Haha, well, if you want to reach the lower floors, you need the right mindset and preparation. I''ve reviewed your past streams during my downtime, so I''m aware of your critical weaknesses, Asakawa-san, and I''ve crafted a solid training plan. We might be the same age, but in this case, you''ll be my disciple.


    "First, I want to assess what you can currently handle, so let''s start with a Wyvern."


    "Wait, what?"


    "Let''s see how you do in a one-on-one fight against a Wyvern."


    Since Asakawa-san can already take down a Frost Wyvern, she should be able to handle a Wyvern without too much trouble, even if it''s considered the strongest in the mid-level floors.


    Asakawa-san froze up, but I''m sure she''s just excited.


    S§×arch* The n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 26 - 26: The Price of Power

    "Yeah, I guess I''m lacking in firepower."


    "That''s... true, isn''t it?"


    Asakawa-san had recently been promoted to C-rank, meaning the association deemed her strong enough to face off against the mid-layer''s strongest creature, the Wyvern, one-on-one. I had her fight one to test her abilities, and while she did manage to defeat it on her own, there were a few close calls. She''s definitely strong enough to be a C-rank, but she could use more firepower.


    "I could tell from watching your streams that while you can cast a lot of spells, each one doesn''t pack much of a punch."


    "I''ve been hearing that ever since I became an explorer."


    I figured as much. Asakawa-san has an incredible talent for casting multiple spells simultaneously, something I could never do. But the power of each spell is lacking. When your spells are weak, you have to rely on quantity over quality, which drains your magic energy quickly and makes it hard to sustain a long battle. And in dungeon exploration, being unable to endure a long fight can be fatal.


    "First, we need to increase your overall magic capacity."


    "Can you really increase that?"


    "You can."


    It''s commonly believed that you can''t increase your magic capacity much, but the truth is, it''s possible to grow it through training. Even people who are deemed unsuitable for dungeon diving could probably become capable with enough effort.


    "That kind of training sounds pretty tough, right?"


    "It is, but maybe you could stream it while you do it?"


    "Streaming magic training would be so boring, though."


    "Huh?"


    Magic training is boring?


    "Wait a minute. Are you talking about that magic training where you constantly release magic while exercising?" S~ea??h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yeah, that''s what I meant."


    "That doesn''t help much."


    "What!?"


    I''ve seen that method recommended online, but it barely increases your magic capacity. I doubt anyone''s felt a noticeable difference from it. Magic isn''t like muscles¡ªyou can''t just build it up with a few workouts.


    "So... you know a better way?"


    "Yes, and I used to do it quite regularly."


    "Teach me!"


    "Of course."


    That''s why we''re here in the dungeon together, after all.


    "The method is simple. You have to survive life-or-death battles."


    "...What?"


    "Keep fighting opponents stronger than you, over and over."


    "Are you a battle maniac?"


    That''s a bit harsh. But it''s true that the top explorers all became strong this way. The lower and deeper floors of dungeons are like hell, where surviving means constantly brushing with death, and it''s through these experiences that they grow stronger.


    I believe the massive gap between the top-tier explorers and everyone else isn''t just about talent but also the number of times they''ve faced death. The strong push deeper into the dungeons, seeking greater challenges, while the weaker ones stay at safer levels, afraid of dying.


    "If you want to break through the limits of being human and make it to the lower floors, you''ll need to push yourself."


    "...I''m starting to get a better sense of just what kind of place I''m aiming for."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll be there with you!"


    Leveling up faster by fighting stronger opponents¡ªjust like in games. Game logic wins again.


    "So, I''ll be streaming while you''re training!"


    Given Asakawa-san''s current level of skill, the monsters from the lower floors should be a good fit for her training. I''ll keep a Thunder Beast on standby, ready to intervene if things get too dangerous. Asakawa-san''s smile looks a bit strained, but I''ll just ignore that for now.


    As I reviewed the archive of yesterday''s private stream at school, a few girls approached my desk. Naturally, I didn''t recognize them at all. I wondered what they wanted.


    "Are you okay after what happened the other day?"


    "The other day... Oh, you mean with Kurihara-kun?"


    "Yeah, that''s right. That stream''s been spreading like crazy online."


    "Really?"


    This is the first I''ve heard of it. I figured it had been streamed, but I assumed it was just shared within the class group or something. I didn''t expect it to go viral online. Though, now that I think about it, someone from the group probably would''ve uploaded it anyway.


    "But still, you''re really strong, aren''t you?"


    "Kisaragi-kun, you were so cool!"


    "Uh... thanks?"


    Why the sudden change? People who probably didn''t even know my name until now are suddenly striking up a conversation with me. It''s a bit overwhelming.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Good morning, Asakawa-san."


    "Oh, good morning, Nanami!"


    Asakawa-san greeted me cheerfully as she walked in, followed closely by Nonohara-san, who seemed to have rushed over. Asakawa-san noticed the group of girls around me and tilted her head in confusion. Honestly, I feel just as confused.


    "You were almost in serious trouble with Kurihara-kun, weren''t you?"


    "I never really liked him anyway."


    Oh, come on. These same people were probably gushing over how handsome Kurihara-kun was not too long ago.


    Speaking of Kurihara-kun, it seems he hasn''t shown up to school since yesterday. I was in Kofu yesterday, so I had no idea he was absent, but it''s probably because of what happened the other day.


    "Are you in the class group chat?"


    "No, I''m not."


    "Let me add you! We should exchange contacts."


    "Oh, okay."


    They''re coming on strong. Is this what Grandma meant when she said being an explorer would make you popular? I''ve always thought she was just teasing me, but maybe she was right all along... Sorry for doubting you, Grandma.


    After exchanging contacts with one girl, others quickly followed, and soon I had a bunch of new contacts, both guys and girls. I never imagined I''d suddenly have so many classmates in my contacts, especially since until now, I only had people related to dungeon work.


    "Oh, is that yesterday''s footage?"


    "Yeah. Looking at it now, I''m glad I bought a good camera."


    Asakawa-san leaned in close to peek at my phone, and I felt my heart skip a beat. The way she tucked her shiny black hair behind her ear made her look so mature.


    "Haha... I look good in this footage, don''t I?"


    "Y-Yeah, you do."


    Well, since half the reason we went into the dungeon yesterday was for her training, it''s good that the footage turned out well.


    "Now that you''ve got this set up, we can collaborate on streams anytime, both with my stream and your own."


    "P-Please go easy on me."


    For some reason, it felt like her smile didn''t reach her eyes... I wonder why.

 Chapter 27 - 27: Thread 3: The Rise of Kisaragi

    502: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s wild how we''ve already reached thread 5 when there was nothing a few days ago, lol.


    503: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably the hottest explorer right now.


    Unknown poster


    Wouldn''t know, though.


    504: Anonymous Explorer


    Turns out, he''s an actual monster.


    505: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it okay to consider him human?


    506: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s a high schooler, you know.


    507: Anonymous Explorer


    Saw some so-called influencer Rank A going off on social media about him.


    508: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just his usual thing.


    509: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, typical meltdown.


    510: Anonymous Explorer


    Losing it whenever someone stronger appears is the cringiest thing ever.


    511: Anonymous Explorer


    Who was the idiot that said he''s only strong because of his Shikigami?


    That was a lie.


    512: Anonymous Explorer


    The Shikigami are strong because he''s a monster, right?


    513: Anonymous Explorer


    With that kind of strength and infinite Shikigami, he''s basically a cheat.


    514: Anonymous Explorer


    Nerf him.


    515: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa makes it four EX explorers now.


    516: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede: Monster


    Aizawa Ryosuke: Monster


    Kamishiro Rion: Monster


    Kisaragi Tsukasa: Monster ¡ûNEW?


    517: Anonymous Explorer


    EX = Monster, as usual.


    518: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re EX because they''re monsters.


    519: Anonymous Explorer


    EX stands for "exceptional," so they''re not even human.


    520: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it insane that he''s still in high school?


    521: Anonymous Explorer


    It''d be insane even if he weren''t in high school.


    522: Anonymous Explorer


    But how come nobody knew about him until now?


    523: Anonymous Explorer


    Aren''t there any explorers here?


    524: Anonymous Explorer


    I go to the Naha Dungeon, so Tokyo''s irrelevant to me.


    525: Anonymous Explorer


    Kobe Dungeon regular here; never heard of him.


    526: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾524


    So there are explorers here, huh?


    527: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m a mid-layer explorer in the Shibuya Dungeon, but I''ve never heard of him.


    528: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s an EX, so he''s probably always in the lower or deep layers. You''d hardly ever run into him.


    529: Anonymous Explorer


    True.


    530: Anonymous Explorer


    When the website says, "UNKNOWN has resolved the issue," they''re talking about him, right?


    Then he''s probably zipping all over the Kanto region pretty often.


    531: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though he''s in high school, he''s a corporate slave.


    532: Anonymous Explorer


    What a depressing world.


    533: Anonymous Explorer


    Especially here, where it''s full of NEETs.


    534: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾533


    There are some explorers here too...


    535: Anonymous Explorer


    If you can''t reach the mid-layers, you''re just a part-timer.


    536: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the deep layer like, I wonder?


    537: Anonymous Explorer


    Since S-rankers and A-rankers don''t stream, it''s a total mystery.


    538: Anonymous Explorer


    They don''t need to stream, but they could at least record and post the footage.


    539: Anonymous Explorer


    We barely know anything about the lower layers either.


    540: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s someone overseas who streams lower layers, though.


    541: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾538


    Since no one else is doing it, they probably feel awkward being the first.


    542: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe their cameras just get destroyed.


    543: Anonymous Explorer


    There are some photos from the deep layers online, though.


    544: Anonymous Explorer


    But it''s just photos.


    545: Anonymous Explorer


    And those are from the California Dungeon, right?


    546: Anonymous Explorer


    The one near San Francisco, the sea dungeon.


    547: Anonymous Explorer


    They call it the California Dungeon, but isn''t it basically in Oakland?


    548: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care about America.


    549: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the Shibuya Dungeon dangerous on a global scale?


    550: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, it''s easy up to the mid-layers.


    551: Anonymous Explorer


    But the difficulty spikes once you hit the lower layers. I nearly died, so I''m never going back.


    552: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾551


    So you''re at least Rank C, huh?


    553: Anonymous Explorer


    Turns out Asagao-chan is his classmate, lol. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    554: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, yeah.


    555: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao stans are losing it.


    556: Anonymous Explorer


    Only the die-hard fans are freaking out.


    557: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re on a first-name basis now!


    558: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL


    559: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾557


    Stop it, lol.


    560: Anonymous Explorer


    They call him top-tier, and now I finally understand why.


    561: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s hilarious how he''s moving too fast to be seen, even with recorded footage.


    562: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone bring a hyper-slow-motion camera.


    563: Anonymous Explorer


    So that''s what it''s like at the top of the explorer world... I''ll just stick to grinding in the upper layers.


    564: Anonymous Explorer


    Go deeper.


    565: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m going to get an explorer''s license.


    Then I''ll become EX.


    566: Anonymous Explorer


    You should probably rethink that.


    567: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you really think you could ever reach that level?


    568: Anonymous Explorer


    Good luck being the fifth EX.


    569: Anonymous Explorer


    All those fake UNKNOWN accounts were a joke.


    570: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course they were.


    571: Anonymous Explorer


    No one believed them to begin with.


    572: Anonymous Explorer


    Has anyone found his social media account yet?


    573: Anonymous Explorer


    Not yet.


    574: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe he doesn''t have one.


    575: Anonymous Explorer


    He didn''t seem too tech-savvy.


    576: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ll know when he registers his details.


    577: Anonymous Explorer


    There are already tons of fake accounts, though.


    578: Anonymous Explorer


    The moment his name got out, everyone updated their profiles to say "I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa" or "I''m a high schooler," lol.


    579: Anonymous Explorer


    What about checking the follow list of the other EX accounts?


    580: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede doesn''t even do social media. She''s said so.


    581: Anonymous Explorer


    Aizawa Ryosuke has one, but...


    It''s just work announcements for the explorer union.


    582: Anonymous Explorer


    A corporate slave on social media, lol.


    583: Anonymous Explorer


    EX salaryman hits different.


    584: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion is pretty active online.


    She posted some pics from a Major League game the other day.


    585: Anonymous Explorer


    What is she doing, lol?


    586: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾584


    Is she just free to do whatever?


    587: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾584


    Forget that, she should be streaming Shibuya Dungeon''s deep layer.


    588: Anonymous Explorer


    That was some deep layer somewhere, right?


    589: Anonymous Explorer


    Nobody''s been able to pinpoint which dungeon''s deep layer it was.


    590: Anonymous Explorer


    So where was it, really?


    591: Anonymous Explorer


    Best guess is somewhere in Australia.


    592: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s too broad.


    593: Anonymous Explorer


    Yep, she''s definitely doing whatever she wants.


    594: Anonymous Explorer


    Not a single mention of anyone foolish enough to challenge UNKNOWN.


    595: Anonymous Explorer


    That was all talked out yesterday.


    596: Anonymous Explorer


    A lot of explorers with big egos out there.


    597: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, there are some who think they''re special just because they''re explorers.


    598: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾596


    He''s in high school, right?


    I''d have a big head too.


    599: Anonymous Explorer


    I get it.


    600: Anonymous Explorer


    If I were a high schooler who could use magic and fight in dungeons, I''d be cocky too.


    601: Anonymous Explorer


    The only mistake was picking a fight with the wrong person.


    602: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s for sure.


    603: Anonymous Explorer


    If you challenge an EX, that''s how it ends.


    604: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s lucky he didn''t get seriously hurt.


    605: Anonymous Explorer


    He''d be dead if that happened.


    606: Anonymous Explorer


    Think I found his account.


    607: Anonymous Explorer


    Didn''t even use Shikigami, lol.


    608: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾606


    Is this for real?


    609: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾606


    Says he plans to stream; is that legit?


    610: Anonymous Explorer


    Only following official game accounts and the union, lol.


    611: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s us.


    612: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s he going to stream?


    613: Anonymous Explorer


    Stream the deep layer exploration!


    614: Anonymous Explorer


    If he actually does it, it''s going to be huge.


    615: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no one else streaming deep layer content except for Kamishiro Rion.


    616: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it fair to call that silent stream of hers a deep layer walkthrough?


    617: Anonymous Explorer


    And she only did it once.


    618: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s a bit of a wildcard.


    619: Anonymous Explorer


    Whatever, I''m hyped. I already followed.


    620: Anonymous Explorer


    He updated his SNS, saying he''ll be helping Asagao-chan for a while, so his streams will just be her training sessions.


    621: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s actually super valuable in its own way.


    622: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao should stream it too.


    623: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s basically a collab.


    624: Anonymous Explorer


    Starting out with zero followers and locking in a collab is hilarious.


    625: Anonymous Explorer


    So Asagao-chan is finally doing an offline collab with a guy? For real?


    626: Anonymous Explorer


    Not fair. I want Kisaragi-kun to train me too.


    627: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, that''s what you''re focused on?


    628: Anonymous Explorer


    The die-hard fans are going to flip.


    629: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾627


    Look, no matter how cute she is, if it''s between a girl streamer and an EX, who are you going to choose?


    630: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾629


    EX, obviously.


    631: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾629


    Japan''s full of beautiful women, but there are only four EXs.


    632: Anonymous Explorer


    So the ultimate dream is to get trained by a beautiful EX like Kamishiro Rion?


    633: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s never going to happen.


    634: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun isn''t going to do it either.


    635: Anonymous Explorer


    The person closest to making it happen is that one corporate slave.


    636: Anonymous Explorer


    If you make it to Rank B, the salaryman will let you join his party.


    It''s part of his junior mentoring or something.


    637: Anonymous Explorer


    Corporate slave is really living up to his name.


    638: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, I wish someone would just do a crazy stream.


    Everything''s so stale these days.


    639: Anonymous Explorer


    One Japanese explorer streaming anything from below the lower layers would be enough to dominate.


    640: Anonymous Explorer


    Hoping for big things from Kisaragi-kun.


    641: Anonymous Explorer


    With how valuable the magic stones from the lower layers are, they probably don''t need the money from streaming.


    642: Anonymous Explorer


    So Kisaragi-kun''s doing this as a hobby?


    643: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably. EXs must be rolling in cash.


    644: Anonymous Explorer


    High schooler and rich? He must be drowning in girls.


    I''m officially a hater now.


    645: Anonymous Explorer


    That was fast.


    646: Anonymous Explorer


    No one''s calling him UNKNOWN anymore; everyone''s calling him Kisaragi-kun, lol.


    647: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, UNKNOWN sounds kind of cringey now.


    648: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop it. Maybe Kisaragi-kun thought it was cool.


    649: Anonymous Explorer


    He is a high schooler, after all.

 Chapter 28 - 28: Training for the Lower Floors

    "Maybe it''s time to try streaming for real?"


    As I sat down after a fight with a lower-level monster, adjusting the camera, Asakawa-san suggested this. Honestly, even if she said that, the only thing I could stream would be her training sessions, and I don''t have much to talk about or do on a stream.


    "Wouldn''t it be better if you streamed, Asakawa-san? Fighting lower-level monsters should get you plenty of views."


    "...It feels weird to stream with you helping me out so much."


    "Does that bother you?"


    "A little bit," she said with a smile, cradling her spear with care. Even though she asked me for help with her streaming, it seems like she doesn''t want to rely on me too much.


    So far, I haven''t actually stepped in to assist her directly. I''ve only been giving her tips about monsters and strategies for each floor.


    She''s steadily getting stronger. Although the training to increase her magical power doesn''t show rapid results, it''s probably the most effective method she''s ever tried. After all, she''s been working hard without complaining.


    "Another one''s coming," I pointed out.


    "...I''ve been fighting so many lower-level monsters lately that my sense of money is starting to get warped."


    "Don''t worry, it won''t get that warped," I said with a chuckle. The truth is, no matter how much you earn, if you''re just average, money will always feel the same.


    From the depths of the tunnel, a hulking ogre with reddish-brown skin lumbered into view. The monster, simply named "Ogre," was all about high durability and strong attacks. It moved slowly, but its attacks were deadly enough to put your life at risk with one hit.


    "This one might be a tough match for you, Asakawa-san."


    "I''ll overcome it!" she said with determination.


    She''s got guts... As expected of someone who almost died in a dungeon one day, only to return the next. That kind of mental fortitude is something ordinary people can''t even fathom, but I guess it''s par for the course for those who venture deep into dungeons. I used to be like that too, fighting my way into the deep layers, on the brink of death more times than I could count.


    I checked that the stream was running and focused on recording Asakawa-san''s battle with the ogre. Since it''s a high-durability monster she struggles with, this footage could be useful later for reviewing and improving her tactics.


    "Is this even working?" she asked as her magic attack seemed to bounce off the ogre''s thick skin.


    "Well, in games, an attack that doesn''t cause visible damage isn''t effective. You can think of it that way in real life too."


    "Then it''s not working!"


    "UGHHHHHH!"


    Reacting to the ogre''s roar and the sound of its club slamming down, several other monsters began converging on us. I was planning to stay out of it unless things got dangerous, but it would be better if Asakawa-san could focus solely on the ogre. I guess I''ll take care of the other monsters.


    "''Gyuuki''."


    I summoned Gyuuki, which immediately bolted in the opposite direction, away from where Asakawa-san was fighting the ogre. One of the weaknesses of Shikigami is that they have some autonomy in how they move, but they have limitations. Specifically, if they get too far¡ªlike an entire dungeon floor away¡ªthey''ll automatically disappear.


    As long as I stay on this floor, Gyuuki should be fine handling the other monsters.


    Watching Asakawa-san''s fight, I could see how much effort she''s put into her training. Her ability to simultaneously cast multiple spells is a talent, but she''s also closely observing the ogre''s movements, predicting its actions based on subtle cues, and avoiding fatal hits. It looks easy, but you need to have survived numerous close calls to develop that kind of skill.


    "Take this!" she cried out, unleashing a fire spell aimed at the ogre''s exposed eye.


    The ogre roared in pain, collapsing as Asakawa-san drove her spear into its neck, putting her full weight behind it. At that point, the fight was essentially over. However, she didn''t stop there. She pulled out her spear and repeatedly shot fire bullets into the wound. Ruthless, but that''s what you need to do. You can''t afford to relax until the monster disappears; that''s basic dungeon survival.


    "Phew... I did it!"


    "Good job. With that, I think you can handle the monsters in this area."


    "...I thought I''d almost die a lot more."


    "If you want that..."


    "No thanks."


    Well, if there''s no rush, this pace is fine. Constantly fighting opponents just a little stronger than you is the best way to grow.


    Gyuuki returned with several magic stones clutched in its hands, having dealt with the other monsters. Among them was one that looked like the ogre''s, but I decided not to mention it to Asakawa-san.


    "Let''s head back for today."


    "What? I can keep going!"


    "You''re running low on magic, aren''t you?" Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Despite the initial protest, she fell silent, which confirmed my suspicion. Since she''s already fought several monsters besides the ogre, I figured she was close to her limit.


    "Listen, it''s important to get close to the edge and fight with your magic nearly depleted to push your limits."


    "Then let''s keep going!"


    "But if you die, it''s all over."


    Sure, I''m here to make sure Asakawa-san doesn''t die in the lower layers, but that''s to handle unexpected situations. I can''t help if she knowingly walks into a fight she can''t win.


    "There''s no need to rush. As an explorer, you''ve still got a long way ahead of you."


    In reality, she''s only been an explorer for two years, and she''s already a C-rank, which is extraordinary. But I doubt my words will get through to her. Being the same age as me, yet seeing me as an EX, probably makes her feel more pressured. There aren''t many high schoolers who are as powerful as her. In fact, being C-rank at her age is already incredible, but I know she''s comparing herself to me.


    I wish I could reassure her more if only I were at her level so that we could have had friendly competition.

 Chapter 29 - 29: Takayama Dungeon Mystery

    "Today, I''m going to hunt monsters in the mid-tier like a big boy!"


    : Finally learned your lesson? S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : How long did that take? A few days?


    : Glad you backed off before getting yourself killed.


    : I was hoping to see some lower-tier action, though.


    : If even Asagao-chan can''t do it, nobody can.


    Due to a manpower shortage today, I ended up getting dispatched all the way to Gifu. Specifically, I was headed to Hida, Takayama City, known for its delicious beef. My mission was to explore the "Takayama Dungeon," located in the mountains. Normally, since I''m a high school student, I''m assigned to handle areas in the Kanto region, but today''s situation was dire enough to pull me in.


    Takayama City is crucial for Japan''s food self-sufficiency. It used to be just a tourist spot, but now it''s a booming place with a large population. The infrastructure is as developed as any regional hub, and it''s really easy to get here from Tokyo or Aichi Prefecture.


    The reason Takayama City has become so important in terms of food production lies in the Takayama Dungeon. It''s the only dungeon in Japan that has been completely cleared to the bottom.


    : I''ve been getting better at fighting lower-tier monsters lately... but I still don''t have the courage to stream it live.


    : Aww...


    : Show us!


    : You''d freak out if you saw it.


    : Streaming with a guy? Expect backlash.


    : Isn''t it already a bit of a scandal?


    : She''s not even selling herself as an idol...


    Currently, I''m watching Asakawa-san''s stream from the backseat of a car as I travel to Takayama Dungeon. It''s a holiday, so she''s been diving since this morning. She''s probably feeling the pressure to get stronger. Her fans must be pleased with the increased streaming frequency, though.


    "We''ve arrived."


    "Already?"


    "Yes, it didn''t take long."


    The driver, an agent from the Explorers Association, had taken me to the dungeon surprisingly quickly. I had expected traffic, but it seems we managed to avoid any delays.


    As I got out of the car, I saw the massive structure halfway up the mountain¡ªthe entrance to Takayama Dungeon. Around the dungeon entrance were numerous shops trying to attract tourists coming to explore the dungeon.


    "How about we grab some lunch here on the way back?"


    "Are we going to finish that quickly?"


    "Don''t worry, we will."


    The agent looked at me in astonishment. Being from a regional office, he might not be familiar with my capabilities, unlike those at the Tokyo headquarters. He probably doesn''t know how fast I can get things done. If traffic stays light, I''ll be back in Tokyo before evening.


    I showed my Explorer ID at the entrance of the Takayama Dungeon, and the receptionist seemed surprised. But I made it inside without any issues.


    The problem that arose in Takayama Dungeon today is one that occurs irregularly but inevitably. It''s at the 57th floor, the lowest level of the dungeon. Takayama Dungeon is relatively small compared to others like Shibuya Dungeon, with only 57 floors. Globally, it''s considered a small dungeon.


    As I descended, I couldn''t help but notice that I''ve become somewhat of a known figure.


    : Isn''t that...?


    : That''s UNKNOWN, right?


    : Seriously? Something''s going on at Takayama Dungeon?


    I''m definitely more recognizable now.


    But I needed to focus on resolving the issue in the Takayama Dungeon.


    I summoned Kirin and rode it through the dungeon. There''s no point wasting time on minor monsters. It''s a holiday, so the dungeon is crowded, which means the number of monsters in the upper floors should be relatively low.


    Takayama Dungeon is always busy, but the crowd differs on weekdays and weekends. During the week, it''s mostly people who are here for work. That''s because everything harvested from the dungeon is food-related.


    This dungeon is categorized as a "Food Dungeon," where common ingredients as well as rare ones that can only be found in dungeons are harvested. In Japan, Osaka Dungeon, Takayama Dungeon, and Sapporo Dungeon fall into this category.


    Of course, these dungeons alone aren''t enough to sustain the food supply, so regular agriculture still exists. Dungeon-grown food can be so expensive that it becomes unaffordable for most people, sold at market prices.


    Takayama Dungeon is considered safe among food dungeons and is often recommended for beginners. The fact that it''s fully cleared adds a level of comfort. Speaking of which, the legend who cleared this dungeon is none other than Kaede Jinguuji, the first-ever EX-ranked explorer. Thanks to her achievement, she remains one of the most recognized explorers in Japan, even overseas.


    "Made it... good job, Kirin."


    Even with Kirin taking the shortest route, it still took some time to get from the first to the 57th floor. It didn''t take an hour, but moving through the dungeon nonstop can get a bit tedious. At least I had Asakawa-san''s stream to keep me entertained.


    The 57th floor, the lowest level of Takayama Dungeon, is vastly different from the maze-like upper floors. It''s a huge, open space with a strange, mechanical-looking white floor. The circular layout of the area feels somewhat eerie. Monsters rarely appear here, and even those on the 56th floor seem hesitant to descend.


    As for why I''m here in this desolate area... The 57th floor is notorious for occasionally spawning a powerful monster.


    "It''s here."


    The ground rumbled as a massive crab-like creature burst through the floor. Its enormous size and tough exterior made it a formidable opponent. The 57th floor''s boss monster, this giant crab, is a recurring problem. Even though it''s been defeated multiple times, it always returns.


    With a muddy, dull color and a look reminiscent of a snow crab, this creature lacks the bright red shell you''d expect. The earthy tones give it an unsettling appearance.


    "Well, time to take you down."


    According to the Association, this monster must be eliminated whenever it appears. The reason? Simply put, we don''t fully understand the dungeon''s mechanics, and leaving it unchecked could lead to unforeseen consequences.


    But here''s the thing¡ªthis crab is incredibly delicious. As a "Food Dungeon" boss monster, it''s a delicacy. I''ve been looking forward to this mission just for the chance to taste it. The market price for this crab is astronomical, but I get to enjoy it as part of the job.


    You can''t underestimate a teenage boy''s appetite!

 Chapter 30 - 30: Crab Conqueror

    "Whoa, that was close."


    I had my sword ready to finish it off quickly, but the moment the crab saw me, it spit out a high-pressure stream of water. The pressure was so intense that it could easily slice through steel, leaving the floor split wide open. Still, the crab''s movements were predictable, so I wasn''t too concerned.


    This monster, while appearing on the 57th floor, is just as strong as the creatures found in the deeper layers of the Shibuya Dungeon. Plus, its sheer size makes it a bit tricky to deal with.


    "Raijuu."


    This crab is incredibly resistant to physical attacks, but it''s vulnerable to magic. Instead of relying on brute force, I''ll have Raijuu assist with lightning.


    As soon as Raijuu was summoned, it dashed off at a speed that left sound behind. The crab had no way to keep up with it. In fact, it seemed to give up on trying to react, relying on its sturdy shell to protect itself.


    "Time to use the magic I developed during my chunibyo phase. Take this!"


    I feel a bit embarrassed admitting that, but it''s the truth. Since the crab''s shell is almost impervious to regular attacks, instead of slashing it directly, I''ll infuse my sword with magic and unleash a magical slash. Basically, it''s a flying magical slash.


    The crab must have realized its prized shell had taken some damage because it raised its claws and tried to intimidate me, showing its side as it quickly advanced and swung its massive claw down at me. Of course, it''s not that easy to hit me.


    The crab seemed ready for a follow-up attack, but Raijuu, who was zipping around, struck one of the crab''s legs, causing it to stumble and wildly flail its claws. Well, if it gets flipped onto its back, it''s game over for the crab.


    "Inmou-rokki."


    I sent Inmou-rokki flying from behind to breathe fire on the crab. After all, you''ve got to cook a crab before you can eat it. Real snow crabs are usually soaked in clean water to remove any mud before cooking, but I doubt this one has any mud inside, right? Anyway, I''m not the one who''ll be cooking it, so it''s fine.


    Despite losing its balance due to Raijuu and being roasted by Inmou-rokki, the crab still fought back by spewing more water. It''s a pain when it starts firing those high-pressure water cutters in all directions, so I should finish this soon. First, I''ll target the leg that Raijuu damaged with a flying slash to deepen the cut, then I''ll strike down with my sword to sever it.


    "Gashadokuro."


    The crab wasn''t too fazed by losing a leg, but it''s currently feeling the danger to its life and is thrashing around. So, I''ll have Gashadokuro pin it down.


    I summoned Gashadokuro at a size comparable to the crab''s, and it grabbed the crab''s claws, preventing them from opening, just like how you''d handle a crab before cooking it. I didn''t specifically command it to do that, but this skeleton creature is surprisingly smart, despite having no brain.


    With its claws restrained, being roasted by fire, and pinned down by Gashadokuro, the crab''s belly was wide open, so I stabbed it with my sword. The remaining five legs tried to strike back, but Raijuu deflected them all.


    I channeled magic into the sword, causing a controlled explosion inside the crab''s body. If the explosion is too strong, the crab would scatter into pieces, ruining the meat, so I kept it to a moderate level¡ªjust enough to ensure its death. After some final thrashes, it went still.


    "Mission accomplished... Now, how do I get this thing back?"


    For some reason, probably because it''s a boss monster, the crab doesn''t disintegrate into ashes like other monsters, leaving its massive carcass behind. This makes it edible, but also a hassle to transport. Dragging this huge thing back isn''t ideal, but chopping it into pieces to carry is even worse.


    "Well, let''s just drag it back."


    Deciding not to overthink it, I dismissed Inmou-rokki, Gashadokuro, and Raijuu, and summoned Gyuuki to haul the crab. I''ll keep Tsuchigumo on guard in case we get ambushed on the way back.


    "Tsuchigumo."


    A massive spider, several meters tall, emerged from the shadows. The Tsuchigumo was named after a derogatory term used for those who defied the ancient Japanese imperial court, but I reimagined it into a yokai that spreads diseases. In this case, I''ve simplified that into a poison that causes severe bleeding.


    Originally described as having the face of a demon, the body of a tiger, and the limbs of a spider, this yokai was too complex for me to visualize, so I just made it a giant spider instead. If it''s hard to imagine, I can''t summon it.


    "Keep us safe."


    I could have gone with Gozu or Mezu for the guard duty, but the twisted paths of Takayama Dungeon make Tsuchigumo''s less direct attack style more suitable. Not that it really matters who does it.


    "Whoa!"


    "What the hell is that?!"


    As I headed back, I started encountering explorers around the mid-tier floors. None of them failed to be startled by the sight of a massive crab being dragged by Gyuuki, escorted by Tsuchigumo.


    "Is that... a crab?"


    "Is that UNKNOWN?"


    "No way, is that the real one?"


    Yes, it''s the real deal. I''ve become quite famous without realizing it. Maybe I should start being more cautious when heading to Shibuya Dungeon or even just taking the train to school. It would be a pain, but I guess I''ll have to. On the bright side, it means I can start my streaming career without worrying about causing any more of a fuss. Time to think positively, I guess.


    "I think it''s time for a lunch break..."


    : Watching this is exhausting.


    : Asagao-chan, the endurance beast.


    : This is basically a dungeon endurance stream.


    : The comment section is just people passing out.


    : A few hours of gaming, sure, but a few hours of dungeon streaming? Insane.


    : I''m out.


    Feeling tired of walking, I decided to ride Kirin while keeping an eye on Asakawa-san''s stream, just as she was about to take a lunch break. Even though she called it a break, she kept the stream going as she nibbled on what looked like a sandwich, all while staying alert in the dungeon. You could just exit the dungeon or cut the stream, but no, she''s a full-on dungeon fanatic.


    "Well, since I''m eating and have some time, let''s do a Q&A."


    : A girl having a Q&A session while eating in the mid-tiers of a dungeon.


    : Reminds me of those British soldiers having tea during battle.


    : This is too much; I can''t even think of questions.


    : What are you eating?


    "Just a convenience store sandwich. Picked it up at Shibuya Station."


    : Lmao.


    : For some reason, that''s hilarious.


    : What about the lower tiers?


    : Is Kisaragi-kun not there?


    : Chilling in the mid-tiers, like a boss?


    "The lower tiers are on hold for now. As for Tsukasa-kun... I think he said he was at Takayama Dungeon?"


    : Takayama Dungeon?


    : Why go all the way out there?


    : For food, obviously.


    : Traveling that far just for food is dumb.


    : When''s Tsukasa-kun''s stream starting?


    : What''s the plan for the afternoon?


    : Are you going to college after high school?


    "He''s there for a mission, you know? Being EX is tough. As for his stream... probably later this month? For the afternoon, I''ll keep exploring the mid-tiers... As for after graduation...


    I''m not sure yet."


    She''s streaming so casually. Should I be impressed that she''s become confident enough to be this relaxed in the mid-tiers, or should I admire her dedication as a streamer? Well, given that she can handle multiple wyverns at once, Asakawa-san should be fine now.


    Meanwhile, just watching her eat lunch makes me hungry too. I should hurry and deliver this crab to the Association so I can grab a nice, slightly expensive lunch with the agent who drove me here. That sounds like a plan.


    And maybe, just maybe, after this mission, I''ll take a break and check out some of the local delicacies. High-end cuisine isn''t something I indulge in often, but after handling a mission like this, I think I''ve earned it. I mean, how often do I get to handle a giant crab and then feast on gourmet food? Not often enough, that''s for sure.


    As I finally make it to the Association, the crab still dragging behind me, I can''t help but think about what''s next. Will I finally get around to starting my own stream, as everyone seems to be expecting? Will I be able to keep up with the increasing demands of being an EX-ranked explorer while maintaining some semblance of a normal life? Who knows. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    But one thing is certain: today, I''m going to enjoy a well-deserved meal. And maybe, just maybe, I''ll figure out where this crazy life of mine is headed next.


    But for now, all I can focus on is the delicious meal that''s waiting for me after this. And honestly? That''s more than enough.

 Chapter 31 - 31: New Challenges

    After dropping off the crab at the Takayama Dungeon Association, I arranged for part of the meat to be sent via courier. The rest would likely end up in high-end restaurants soon enough.


    When I offered to treat the driver who had been waiting outside the dungeon to a nice lunch, he politely declined, saying it was too much. So, I dragged him to a ramen shop against his will. Takayama ramen is known for its chicken broth and curly noodles, but the standout feature for me is the delicious chashu. Hida beef really is something special.


    I prefer these small, family-run shops to more expensive, high-end places.


    When it came time to pay, I quickly settled the bill with my digital wallet, leaving the driver looking a bit embarrassed. But considering I''ve probably earned more in a year than most people do in a lifetime, I don''t think it''s unreasonable for me to cover lunch.


    The driver probably felt awkward about a high schooler treating him, but I can''t let someone who''s already overworked and tired do any more for me.


    "...Thank you very much," he said.


    I chuckled softly. "Really, it''s no big deal."


    As the car moved along, the driver thanked me again, which made me smile. The Explorer Association, being a government agency, is typically staffed by elite public servants. However, the workload and responsibilities seem to turn most of them into worn-out, overworked drones. Given that, there''s no way I could demand VIP treatment just because I''m an EX-Rank Explorer.


    Treating the guy to a meal was the least I could do.


    ''¡­Isn''t today''s stream kind of boring?''


    : Long hours of dominating mid-tier monsters, and now you''re complaining?


    : She''s totally lost her sense of scale.


    : Have you even watched any other dungeon streams?


    : Asagao-chan, unwittingly the strongest.


    : Just being in the mid-tiers is impressive, you know?


    On-screen, Asakawa-san continued battling mid-tier monsters, as relentless as ever. Sure, I''d advised her that the best way to increase her mana capacity was to keep fighting, but I didn''t expect her to take it this far. She''s surprisingly dedicated.


    From what I could see, she was trying to conserve mana as much as possible, but even with a lunch break, she''d been fighting for hours now. She had to be getting tired by this point. If it looked like she was really overextending, I''d send her a message or give her a call.


    ''I think I can keep going a bit longer, so let''s keep at it.''


    : Yikes.


    : When did she turn into such a beast? S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : She''s always been a beast.


    : This is Kisaragi-kun''s influence.


    : So, she''s been "corrupted" by a man?


    : Unforgivable.


    : LOL


    : Asagao-chan''s body has been trained by Kisaragi-kun to crave battle.


    : Is this the start of an NTR story or a new game announcement?


    : So, Kisaragi-kun was a seasoned mercenary all along.


    Seeing my name pop up in the comment section during Asakawa-san''s stream gave me an idea of why my official SNS account, which I''d set up recently, was getting flooded with angry messages. These were likely from hardcore fans who couldn''t stand the idea of me, a real-life connection to Asakawa-san, existing. Not that I''m going to stop associating with her because of that.


    ''Oh, some orcs are coming. Three of them¡­ I want to finish this in a minute.''


    : What are you aiming for?


    : The deep tiers, obviously.


    : Don''t skip the lower tiers!


    : EX-tier, duh.


    : So, she''s aiming to transcend humanity.


    : Even if Asagao-chan becomes a superhuman, I''ll still support her.


    : She''s already not quite human, to be fair.


    : Finishing three orcs in a minute is just ridiculous.


    Asakawa-san didn''t even glance at the comments as she sprinted forward at a speed that blurred the camera. She drove her spear through the first orc''s neck, then shot beams from her fingertips to pierce the second orc''s skull. All of this happened in about five seconds. However, since orcs don''t die just from having their necks pierced, only the middle one was taken out.


    The two remaining orcs quickly tried to retaliate, raising their clubs, but Asakawa-san moved too fast for the camera to keep up. She summoned a barrage of magical fangs that tore the first orc to shreds, then fired five beams from her fingers to finish off the last one.


    ''How was that?''


    : Uh¡­


    : How are we supposed to react?


    : Amazing.


    : Insane.


    : Ridiculous.


    : Well, that''s our monster for you.


    : Asagao-chan, you''re so cool!


    : The time¡­ 41 seconds!


    : She''s gone to a place we can''t reach.


    Watching that, it''s clear that Asakawa-san has been working not only on increasing her mana but also on improving the potency of her magic. Honestly, given how quickly she''s developing new spells, her magical talent far surpasses mine.


    ''I''ve been developing new magic, partly inspired by Tsukasa-kun''s techniques. I hadn''t used them earlier since the monsters weren''t tough enough to warrant it, but wow, the mana cost is high.''


    : That¡­ was a beam, right?


    : Definitely a beam.


    : It was clearly a beam.


    : Can a beam even be considered magic?


    ''I''m just compressing lightning magic and shooting it out.''


    : "Just" compressing lightning magic, she says.


    : I''ve been utterly defeated by the concept of magic compression.


    : Completely beyond my comprehension.


    : Yep, explorers are from another dimension.


    : Cute.


    : So cool, Asagao-chan!


    : For a second, I thought Asagao-chan had turned into a robot.


    She hasn''t mentioned it on stream, but it seems like Asakawa-san has significantly improved her ability to enhance her physical speed with mana. The camera can''t keep up with her movements yet, probably because she hasn''t fine-tuned the settings. If she''s already moving this fast, it won''t be long before she surpasses even the legendary speed of my grandmother, who''s known as the fastest explorer.


    I still can''t beat my grandmother in terms of speed.


    Given how she''s dominating mid-tier monsters while casually chatting on her stream, I think she''s more than capable of handling the lower tiers on her own now. I should send her a message.


    [Watching your stream. You''re doing great.]


    [Honestly, I think you''re ready for the lower tiers.]


    Alright, I think I''ll take a nap until we get back to Tokyo.


    ''Oh, I just got a message. Hold on a sec.''


    : Is it from a guy?


    : Or a girl?


    : Probably a friend.


    : It''s me.


    : I''m betting on Kisaragi-kun.


    : Maybe it''s the Association?


    : It''s me, I swear.


    : Kisaragi-kun is the most likely.


    : Didn''t she say he was at Takayama Dungeon?


    [Thanks!]


    [Is your job done, Tsukasa-kun?]


    [Knowing you''re watching makes me a bit nervous, haha.]


    [I was thinking of trying something challenging, but¡­]


    [I kind of want to go with you.]


    [Is that selfish?]


    [Let me know when you''re back in Tokyo!]


    Wow, she replied fast. She''s typing out messages on her phone right there in the stream.


    ''Since I got a message, I guess I''ll keep going a bit longer!''


    : Go for it!


    : Keep it up!


    : I''m going to take a nap, though.


    : It''s almost evening, though.


    : I should get back to work.


    : Don''t watch streams during work hours!


    : Is she getting ready to challenge the lower tiers?


    Yeah, I''m too curious now. I guess I''ll stay up and keep watching the stream.

 Chapter 32 - 32: First Steps into Streaming

    "Good morning, Kisaragi-kun!"


    "Morning! You were working over the weekend too, right?"


    "G-Good morning..."


    "You went all the way to Takayama, didn''t you? Got any stories to share?"


    "Um¡­ the ramen was delicious?"


    After spending Saturday at the Takayama Dungeon and lazily passing Sunday at home, I returned to school on Monday, only to be bombarded by classmates, both boys and girls, all eager to chat. Thankfully, no one directly messaged me, but still, the sudden attention was overwhelming.


    Ever since that incident with the popular guy and his entourage, I''ve become the center of attention, which is pretty inconvenient. Even on the train to school, I could hear people whispering about me, my heightened explorer senses picking up every word.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun."


    "Asakawa-san¡­ Good morning."


    "You look like you''ve been saved by the bell or something."


    Asakawa-san laughed softly, but to me, she really was a lifesaver. My classmates, who I can''t even match faces to names, kept talking to me non-stop, and it was wearing me down. Some people even talked to me thinking I was someone else entirely. I have no idea how far the rumors have spread, but it''s all become a bit much.


    "By the way, about the other day¡­"


    "The other day? Oh, you mean about going to the lower floors?"


    "Yeah, I''ve been thinking¡­ maybe I should try challenging it if I get the chance."


    Wait¡­ Is this an invitation? The way Nonohara-san, who''s standing next to her, is grinning makes me think this is definitely an invite to go to the dungeon together.


    Setting aside the fact that this is an invitation from a girl, Asakawa-san already has the strength that surpasses what you''d expect from a Rank C explorer. She''s definitely ready to explore the lower floors.


    "So, I was thinking¡­ why don''t we do a big stream together?"


    "A big stream? What do you mean?"


    "I mean, let''s stream my challenge of the lower floors together!"


    That''s¡­ a pretty risky idea.


    I get what she''s saying. Even though I haven''t streamed even once, my channel''s subscribers have been steadily growing for some reason, and now Asakawa-san is suggesting we do a simultaneous stream¡ªbasically a collaboration¡ªon her Asagao channel and mine.


    There are two major benefits to this collab. The first is that by partnering with the popular streamer Asagao, I can instantly raise the profile of my channel. The second is that I can learn the ropes of streaming from Asakawa-san during my first stream. But even with these big benefits, there are some significant drawbacks that make me hesitant.


    "Wouldn''t that be a burden on you, Asakawa-san?"


    "It''s fine! I''m not really selling myself as an idol or anything, so I don''t think it''ll cause too much backlash."


    She knows this as well as I do¡ªshe has some devoted fans who have a bit of a crush on her, and that could become a problem for both of us. When passionate fans feel betrayed, they can turn into vocal critics.


    Another potential downside is that if my first stream is a collab with Asagao, people might think that''s the kind of content my channel is focused on, but that''s something time would eventually sort out.


    "Alright, let''s do it."


    "Really? Honestly, I thought you''d turn me down."


    "Even with the potential downsides, I''m more interested in seeing you challenge the lower floors up close."


    "...That''s kind of embarrassing."


    Why is she embarrassed? Wanting to see a friend in action doesn''t seem strange to me. Sure, it might feel a bit awkward, but hey, this is my first stream too, so we''re in the same boat.


    "Hey, Nanami. I think¡­ Kisaragi-kun is totally oblivious."


    "Yeah¡­ I know."


    "Good luck!"


    "Thanks."


    "...?"


    I have no idea what''s going on, but Nonohara-san is giving Asakawa-san some kind of pep talk. Is this about tackling the lower floors? If so, why did they bring up my name? S~ea??h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    We got to class, and without much more conversation, the first period began. Asakawa-san looked like she wanted to say something, but maybe she''s still trying to find the right moment. I''m not great at understanding how to navigate friendships, so I decided to wait until she was ready.


    "In Japan, we have four explorers with the EX rank who handle extraordinary dungeon-related incidents¡­"


    When Dungeon History class began, I noticed that more people than usual were glancing my way, especially given the topic. Even the teacher kept sneaking looks at me. Hey, teacher, maybe you should focus on the lesson?


    "Ahem! So, in the United States, there are about six EX-ranked explorers, but they often face a shortage of personnel due to the vast size of the country and the number of dungeons."


    Yeah, well, Japan''s not much better off with its high dungeon density, but okay.


    "Hey, Kisaragi-kun, do you know the American EX-rank explorers?"


    "...I''ve met them once or twice."


    "Wow, so you''re really connected, huh?"


    I wouldn''t exactly say that. And what''s with people just casually chatting with me during class? Is this what normal students do? I wouldn''t know¡ªI''ve never had friends before.


    The World Dungeon Association Organization (WDAO), a United Nations body, brings together EX-ranked explorers from all over the world, not just America, so I''ve met them all at least once. Though WDAO''s work is highly confidential due to the sensitive nature of dungeon-related matters, so our meetings are never reported in the news.


    "Teacher, isn''t Kisaragi-kun an EX too?"


    "...There''s a lot I''d like to ask, but please save personal questions for after class."


    Seriously, teacher?


    Finally, it was the end of the school day. After that first period of Dungeon History, where even the teacher kept asking me questions, I was mentally drained. The rest of the day''s classes seemed to drag on forever. I guess the Dungeon History teacher, being a part-timer, was personally curious about dungeon matters.


    "Good work today¡­ Did you get any jobs?"


    "...Nothing''s come through."


    I checked my work phone, which I had stashed in my locker, but there were no messages. So, as we discussed this morning, it looks like we''re heading to Shibuya Dungeon to do a dual stream.


    While I''m used to diving into dungeons and solving problems, talking in front of people is a whole different challenge¡­ But I''ve got to do it. I''m genuinely curious about how this will go.


    "Alright! Let''s meet at Shibuya Dungeon right away!"


    "Got it."


    As a streamer, I''m finally taking my first step forward.

 Chapter 33 - 33: A Ride Through the Lower Floors

    Currently, I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa, preparing the camera on the first floor of the Shibuya Dungeon. Asakawa-san invited me to join her for a live stream, and I''m getting ready, but... I''m incredibly nervous. I guess if I were preparing and streaming alone, I wouldn''t be this nervous, but doing it together with Asakawa-san, a popular streamer, is really getting to me.


    "I''m starting now... Hi everyone, it''s Asagao! Today, I''m streaming from the uppermost level!"


    Asagao ch


    : Hey, hey


    : Hi, Asagao-chan!


    : Is this after school? Good luck!


    : Asagao-chan''s stream is on!


    : It''s here!


    : You look cute as always!


    With a smooth and natural movement, Asakawa-san started her stream, nodding while looking at the comments.


    "Today, as announced earlier, we have a special guest."


    Asagao ch


    : It''s a guy, huh


    : Oh, I see


    : Yay, Kisaragi-kun!


    : He''s not on camera


    : Where is he?


    : I didn''t think Asagao-chan would do a collab


    : It''s a guy, huh


    I glanced at the comments, but... is this really okay? I feel like I''m being seen as the enemy just for being a guy... What should I do?


    "Are you ready, Tsukasa-kun?"


    "I-I think so... probably."


    "Haha, you seem nervous."


    Asagao ch


    : Everyone''s nervous on their first stream, don''t worry about it


    : I''m curious about Kisaragi-kun too, so I''ll watch both streams


    : Hurry up, let''s go!


    : EX''s first stream is gonna be intense, huh


    : Good luck!


    I took a deep breath... Okay, enough with the hesitation. Let''s start the stream and help Asakawa-san with her training. She told me to just be myself during the stream!


    When I pressed the camera button, a countdown appeared. As soon as it hit zero, the stream started, and Asakawa-san nodded in satisfaction.


    "Hello, this is Kisaragi Tsukasa. Um... Asagao-san invited me to start streaming, so... I guess that''s the intro? Whatever. Nice to meet you."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Hey there, UNKNOWN-kun


    : Yo, UNKNOWN


    : It''s UNKNOWN lol


    : Good luck, UNKNOWN


    "Could you not make fun of my old username? It''s a bit of a sore spot."


    Why am I getting roasted here?


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Sorry, man


    : Yeah, ''Kisaragi'' is definitely the right kanji


    : Was there ever any doubt?


    : I didn''t know that


    : So, Kisaragi Tsukasa is written like that, huh


    : Got it


    I used my real name "Kisaragi Tsukasa" as the channel name, so it looks like a lot of people are just confirming the kanji. I guess it makes sense since I hadn''t registered it anywhere before.


    "So today, we''re doing a joint stream down to the lower floors!"


    Asagao ch


    : What the heck is he saying?


    : Did he just casually drop something insane?


    : Whoa, lol


    : You''re gonna die!?!


    : Are you still going for it?


    : She hasn''t given up yet?


    "Don''t worry, Tsukasa-kun will save me if things get dangerous."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : That''s a lot of responsibility


    : Starting with a bang, huh?


    : Good luck!


    : EX''s job isn''t easy


    : That''s not what an EX is supposed to do...


    "We''re friends. I''ll protect her... but only if it gets really dangerous."


    Of course, protecting a friend isn''t something I''d hesitate to do. But this is supposed to be Asakawa-san''s training, so my role is just to watch over her from the back and only step in if things get truly dangerous.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Yep, that''s the EX personality for you


    : Tough love, huh?


    : This training is wild


    "We''re only going to the 42nd floor, though."


    "What?!"


    "You''re not ready to go to the 50th floor yet; it''s not just about strength. You need knowledge to survive below the lower floors."


    "Okay... if you say so, we''ll stop at the 42nd floor today, right?"


    Asagao ch


    : Nice one, Kisaragi-kun


    : Keep her grounded, good job


    : He''s a good guy


    : The runaway train finally got brakes


    : She finally has a sensible friend...


    "Why is everyone so mean?!"


    I''m not exactly her brakes... Well, whatever.


    "Alright, let''s head down to the lower floors. ''Kirin''!"


    When I summoned Kirin, the creature I always ride on, Asakawa-san''s eyes sparkled as she began petting its fur.


    "Such a beautiful coat! It''s so cute!"


    Asagao ch S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : So, this is the famous Shikigami?


    : Those eyes are adorable


    : I imagined Kirin would look more fierce


    : I only know about Kirin the beer


    : A giraffe?


    : Kirin is a guardian beast from China


    "Hurry up and get on."


    "Okay!"


    "Hold the camera in your hand."


    Why does she look a bit dissatisfied? I thought she could pet it as much as she wanted once she''s on... Maybe that''s not what she wanted.


    Once I confirmed that Asakawa-san was mounted on Kirin, I patted Kirin''s neck, signaling it to start running, albeit at a slightly slower pace than usual. Even so, it won''t take long to reach the lower floors.


    "It''s so fast!"


    "This is slower than usual."


    "This is slow!?"


    Asagao ch


    : I feel sick


    : Terrifying


    : Isn''t this too fast?


    : So, this is how UNKNOWN completes his tasks so quickly


    : The camera can''t even keep up, so that''s why he said to hold it


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Oh wow


    : I''m used to seeing the upper floors go by like this


    : I''m used to the mid-levels too


    : A lot of dungeon explorers are watching Kisaragi-kun''s channel


    : Looks like a bunch of mid-level explorers are interested in watching this?


    : Today it''s just down to the lower floors, but this guy can go all the way to the depths, right?


    Looking at it like this, you can really see the difference in the audience demographics.


    I''m guessing that a lot of the people on Asakawa-san''s channel are more general viewers who aren''t as familiar with dungeons, drawn in by her popularity and curiosity about the dungeon interiors. Plus, her appearance, of course.


    On the other hand, judging by the comments on my stream, it seems like there are more people who are into the technical side of dungeons, discussing mid-level stuff. My audience probably consists of explorers who are interested in the lower and deeper levels.


    "Tsukasa-kun... you can look at your phone at this speed?"


    "I''m used to it."


    "I... see."


    When I head down to the deeper floors, it takes quite a bit of time, so I usually have Raiju accompany me while I move even faster. During that time, I get bored, so I play games or something. Right now, I''m just keeping an eye on the comments as they scroll by.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : If you''re bored, take questions


    : Is this a Q&A now?


    : What''s the difference?


    : Did you enjoy Takayama Dungeon?


    : What did you eat in Takayama?


    Looks like the viewers are bored too, so I''ll answer some questions.


    "Takayama Dungeon was pretty much what I expected. It was a bit refreshing to see a different crowd tackling the dungeon on a weekend. I treated the driver to some Takayama ramen because he looked pretty worn out. I wanted to take him to a more expensive place, but I figured he might decline."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ch


    : Fair enough


    : I''d be hesitant to let a high schooler treat me to something expensive


    : Age matters, man


    : Takayama ramen is good stuff


    : I like the curly noodles


    : Now I want to visit Takayama


    : It''s easier to get there by the new train, but you drove?


    There''s indeed a train that connects Sapporo to Kagoshima.


    It was built to pass through Sapporo Dungeon, Sendai Dungeon, Shibuya Dungeon, Takayama Dungeon, Nagoya Dungeon, Osaka Dungeon, Hiroshima Dungeon, Fukuoka Dungeon, and Kagoshima Dungeon.


    "We had a stop to make in Shizuoka, so we took a car and spent quite a bit of time on the road."


    I hate to say it, but being an EX is a busy life.


    Seeing the comment sections on both Asakawa-san''s and my stream buzz just from talking about Takayama Dungeon, I realize that everyone''s really used to seeing Shibuya Dungeon all the time.

 Chapter 34 - 34: Facing the Unknown

    "Takayama Dungeon is basically all about food, right?"


    "Well¡­ yeah, pretty much."


    As a student, Asakawa-san doesn''t have much reason to explore dungeons outside of the Shibuya Dungeon, which is conveniently close to her home. Honestly, even if you''re not a student, not many people have much connection to dungeons outside their immediate area. I noticed a few comments in the chat from viewers asking about different dungeons, so it seems like there''s interest in hearing about them.


    "What''s the weirdest dungeon you''ve been to?"


    "¡­?"


    I''m not really sure what she means by "weird," but I''ll play along.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Weird as in what?


    : The environment or something?


    : Shibuya Dungeon is pretty standard, so maybe she means something like that?


    "If you mean the environment¡­ then probably the Nagoya Dungeon."


    "Really?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Isn''t Nagoya Dungeon just another dungeon?


    : Oh, I''ve heard about that one¡­


    : Isn''t that the one where you can mine rare metals?


    : You''ll get it when you see it for yourself.


    : I live in Nagoya. The environment in that dungeon is so harsh I gave up on becoming an explorer.


    Asagao Ch


    : Rare metals? For real?


    : That sounds like a goldmine dungeon!


    : The government should fully explore that dungeon.


    : They can''t, that''s the problem¡­


    : There''s no way to clear that dungeon, it''s too tough.


    : Just send in the EX-rankers, they''ll handle it.


    "A lot of people don''t seem to know about it."


    "Is it really that bad?"


    "You can find out for yourself if you do a bit of research."


    I thought the harsh environment of Nagoya Dungeon was common knowledge, but apparently, not everyone''s aware of it.


    Of course, I''ve been to Nagoya Dungeon myself. When I reached the middle layers, all I could think about was how much I wanted to go home.


    "We''re almost there."


    "Already?"


    "Yup, just about."


    I''ve been keeping track of every stair we''ve descended, so I know exactly which floor we''re on. Right now, Kirin is racing through the 39th floor.


    "Here we are, the stairs to the 41st floor."


    "Wow¡­ looking at these stairs reminds me of how I almost died here."


    Asagao Ch


    : Asagao-chan''s trauma spot.


    : If you''re traumatized, you wouldn''t come this far down again.


    : This brings back memories of that legendary stream.


    : Better turn back before another dragon shows up.


    : Maybe we should just head back now.


    Come on, she''s been down to the lower floors with me plenty of times since that incident. Granted, I''ve never let her ride Kirin until now, but we''ve visited for training several times off-stream.


    "And now, the real part of the stream begins."


    "Just another training session¡­ or maybe not. I''ll be using the high-powered spells I''ve been working on, so I''ll give it my all!"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Go for it!


    : You got this!


    : This feels way too casual.


    : Kisaragi doesn''t seem tense at all about heading to the lower floors.


    : Well, he''s EX-rank, after all.


    What do people think being EX-rank means? I''m still human; I get scared too. I can''t even watch horror movies.


    Think about it like this: even if a place is considered scary by others, if you''re used to walking through it every day on your way to school, you don''t get scared every time you pass by. The lower floors are just a route I take to reach the deeper levels of the dungeon. That''s all.


    "The 41st floor doesn''t have too many tough monsters, so it''s better to train on the 42nd floor."


    "¡­Are you saying that to the viewers?"


    "Yes. I think sharing information about the lower floors would be helpful for them."


    "Hmm¡­ there''s a disconnect in how dangerous this place is perceived."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : I mean, most of us don''t go to the lower floors just to train. sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Are you giving a tour of a suicide spot?


    : Definitely a landmark¡­


    : Training on the lower floors is just ridiculous.


    : Don''t treat the lower floors like a grinding spot in a video game.


    "It''s not me who''s grinding for levels here."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : That''s not the point.


    : What¡­


    : This guy is seriously out of touch.


    : Well, he''s EX-rank, so¡­


    Why does it feel like there''s a lot of misinformation about EX-rank explorers?


    "Enemy ahead!"


    "Hmm?"


    As soon as we stepped onto the lower floor, a dog with two heads came into view down the corridor. With three heads, it''d be a Cerberus, but with two, it''s probably an Orthrus.


    Seeing that Orthrus made me think¡ªmaybe I should start summoning monsters from mythology, not just Japanese yokai. I''d need to study more to fill in the gaps in my knowledge, but it''s something to consider.


    "Is there any strategy for dealing with that dog?"


    "This is my first time seeing it."


    "Oh¡­ wait, what?"


    "Yeah, same here."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Lol, seriously?


    : You don''t know either?


    : What''s going on here?


    : So much for strategy tips¡­


    : You''ve got to be kidding me.


    I don''t know everything about the lower floors. Compared to the deeper floors, my knowledge is limited. Sure, I know the environment and the routes downward, but new monsters pop up from time to time, even in the upper floors. It''s pointless to try memorizing everything.


    "O-Okay¡­ I''ll handle this somehow."


    Asagao Ch


    : You better!


    : Protect her!


    : You''re the one who should be dealing with new enemies!


    : Be careful, Asagao-chan!


    As soon as Orthrus noticed us, it charged. Up close, it''s surprisingly big, though not quite as large as an ogre. Despite its bulk, it moved sluggishly, with fire flickering in both of its mouths.


    Still, with Asakawa-san''s ability to sense magical energy, she''ll be able to react to whatever it tries. I''m not too worried.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : I tuned in to watch Kisaragi, though¡­


    : Well, it''s the lower floors, so¡­


    : It''s his first stream, cut him some slack.


    : I guess it can''t be helped.


    Asagao Ch


    : She''s gotten way stronger since last time.


    : Must be the influence of that guy.


    : That sounds kinda sketchy.


    : Hard to believe she almost died down here before.


    : The camera can''t keep up with her movements¡ªshe''s too fast!


    Asakawa-san blocked Orthrus''s initial fire attack with several layers of magical shields before firing a compressed lightning beam from her fingertips. She told me it takes a lot of concentration to compress the magic, so she can only deploy up to five at once, which is a downside. I never even thought of compressing magic like that.


    Orthrus took the beam head-on, but its skin seemed incredibly tough¡ªonly a few scorch marks were left.


    "This might be tougher than I thought."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : You''re just watching, but shouldn''t you step in?


    : Are you gonna help?


    : Nah, not yet.


    : He''ll step in when it''s time.


    "It doesn''t help anyone if I''m too overprotective¡­ oops."


    A stray fireball almost hit me.


    Honestly, that Orthrus doesn''t seem like the kind of monster that should be appearing on the uppermost lower floors. Still, Asakawa-san should be able to handle it. If she can take it down confidently, she''s beyond Rank C already.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : I underestimated her¡ªAsagao-chan is legit monster class.


    : The basic moves of both of them are so fast it''s hard to follow.


    : That dog is way tougher than it looks.


    : Well, it''s the lower floors.


    : Asagao-chan can use magic while wielding a spear and still move at that speed?


    "That dog¡ªif I had to name it, I''d call it Orthrus¡ªseems a bit slow. It''s definitely strong, but I think a well-placed strike to a vital spot should take it down."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Um, that''s easier said than done.


    : Where exactly is its vital spot?


    : Too fast¡­


    : "A well-placed strike" (Yeah, right).


    : Where exactly is the vital spot?


    "¡­The heart?"


    Actually, where is it? If it were me, I''d aim to decapitate the two heads right off the bat. Sure, it''s risky to get that close, but the reward is worth it. And if you''re not in real danger, isn''t that risk worth taking?

 Chapter 35 - 35: Balancing Battle and Banter

    "Whoa, it''s spitting fire everywhere¡­"


    Asakawa-san is trying to pierce through Orthrus''s tough skin while maintaining her defensive spells. I can''t quite make out what she''s saying through the sounds of battle, but from what I''ve picked up from the stream''s audio, she seems a bit disappointed that the spell she developed specifically to pierce through Ogre hide didn''t work.


    "¡­Something''s coming."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : That''s not just "something."


    : Isn''t that a half-transparent skeleton?


    : Didn''t Asagao-chan nearly die to that thing before?


    : Don''t just brush it off as "something."


    "This is basic strategy info, but I''ve already shared this with Asakawa-san¡­ That half-transparent skeleton is only a threat the first time you encounter it. It''s not actually that dangerous."


    The monster is notorious for being a first-time killer on the 41st and 42nd floors, but honestly, the Orthrus that Asakawa-san is fighting is way stronger.


    "That skeleton is in an astral form, meaning its magical energy is spread thin. A direct hit with a spell that''s powerful enough will take it down. Like this."


    I casually toss a fireball its way. The fireball, just strong enough to hit and destroy the astral skeleton, does its job perfectly, blowing the skeleton to pieces. That''s pretty much what you get in the lower floors.


    "See?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Uh¡­


    : That was kinda intense.


    : "See?" Seriously?


    : You''re just casually breaking the game.


    : That was crazy.


    : A first-time killer is still dangerous to most people!


    : You''re nuts, man.


    There''s a flood of somewhat rude comments. But really, Asakawa-san could probably do this too. The lightning beam she used on Orthrus would be more than enough to take it down.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Is this the lower-floor stream we were all waiting for?


    : Is it though?


    : Definitely not.


    : We wanted to see some real struggles.


    : You can''t expect that from an EX-rank.


    : Yeah, that''s asking too much.


    "Hey, I''m still just a normal human being, you know?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Sure, sure.


    : If you say so.


    : Human?


    : Real humans can''t run at subsonic speeds, dude.


    You could train up and run at subsonic speeds too if you tried.


    "Still, it looks like you''re having a real tough battle there."


    Orthrus is definitely a tough opponent, but I thought Asakawa-san could handle it¡­ Maybe I underestimated the challenge. Though, it might just be a bad matchup for her.


    "Want me to take over?"


    "Do you think I''d actually say yes to that?"


    "Keep up the good work."


    Asakawa-san, tumbling toward me after taking a hit, gave the expected response when I offered to step in. But facing a tough opponent like that is how she''ll grow, so I''ll just focus on clearing out the smaller threats that might come her way.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Is she really okay?


    : It does seem like she''s pushing through.


    : I was watching Asagao''s stream, but I switched over here because I couldn''t keep up with her speed.


    : She''s moving so fast, it''s hard to keep up.


    : Maybe she needs a better camera setup.


    : Asagao-chan¡­ you''re really leveling up.


    "If her camera can''t keep up with the speed, maybe it''s time to invest in a new one?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Didn''t Asagao-chan''s camera cost a fortune?


    : Yeah, it was crazy expensive.


    : You''re suggesting something even pricier?


    "A good camera is a streamer''s lifeline."


    That said, even technology has its limits. You can''t just keep throwing money at it to infinitely improve performance.


    "Whoops."


    While responding to the viewers'' comments, I noticed a burst of fire heading my way. It''s probably a stray shot that Asakawa-san deflected. I casually deflected it with a bit of magical energy on my bare hand.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Did he just swat away the fireball that Asagao-chan was struggling to block with her bare hand?


    : Must be my imagination¡­


    : This is terrifying.


    : Why don''t you just solo the whole thing?


    : This is straight-up scary.


    : EX-rankers are nightmare fuel.


    : If this is the lower floors, how bad are the deeper levels?


    : You should know by now¡­


    "The deeper floors¡­ well, let''s just say ''hellish'' is an appropriate description."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : What does that even mean?


    : I''m looking forward to it now.


    : Rion Kamishiro''s stream definitely felt like it was from hell.


    : The environments there are all kinds of messed up.


    It makes sense that viewers are curious about the deeper floors. I''ve explored a decent number of dungeons, and I''ve seen quite a few deep floors, but I still can''t find any consistent patterns. The deeper levels of the Shibuya Dungeon, in particular, are full of mysteries.


    "The deep floors in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, are what I''d call a fascinating kind of hell."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Fascinating hell? What even is that?


    : That sounds like an oxymoron.


    : Wait, where is Northern Territory again?


    : It''s in Australia.


    : Alice Springs is definitely in Australia.


    : Australia, the land of dungeons.


    : Japan''s a dungeon land too, technically.


    : I know nothing about overseas dungeons, so this is intriguing.


    I''d like to stream from an overseas dungeon someday. Thanks to WDAO (World Dungeon Association Organization), getting permission to explore overseas dungeons is just a matter of getting the right paperwork. Of course, any materials you find have to go through the proper channels if you want to take them out of the country, but you can always sell them locally.


    "Streaming from overseas dungeons could be fun. There are lots of interesting spots. Mumbai in Maharashtra, India, has a pretty wild one. Personally, I''d recommend the dungeon in Houston, Texas."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Oh, wow.


    : Getting all talkative, huh?


    : Classic nerd move¡ªtalking too fast when excited. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : I don''t want to hear a dungeon otaku ramble about overseas dungeons.


    : LOL


    : I kind of want to see these places¡­


    "If you''re worried about safety, America''s a good bet. Oh, and by the way, I''m talking about the deep floors in all these places."


    India isn''t all that dangerous, but compared to Japan, there are more things to be cautious about. America''s probably a better choice for first-timers. Thanks to the influence of explorers, even the gun culture there is calming down a bit.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Yikes.


    : I wanted to go, but now I''m rethinking it.


    : The deep floors? No way.


    : I''m out!


    : Don''t you need an international explorer rank to access foreign dungeons anyway?


    "Don''t worry. Japan is a signatory to WDAO, so as long as you follow the process, you can explore overseas dungeons."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Haven''t heard about WDAO in a while.


    : Are they actually doing anything?


    : They keep everything so secret; it''s hard to know.


    : You probably know all the inside info since you''re EX-rank.


    Of course, I do. I know way more than I can talk about.


    "Oh, Orthrus is dead."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : LOL


    : At least pretend to care.


    : Stop getting so wrapped up in conversation.


    : Kisaragi''s stream is more interesting than I expected.


    : Chatting casually like a friend while being an EX-rank streamer.


    : This is so different from anything else.


    : Pay attention to Asagao-chan!


    "¡­My bad."


    "You''re apologizing already?"


    Asakawa-san, who''s approaching after taking down Orthrus, is smiling, but I can tell she''s a bit annoyed. I was supposed to be keeping an eye on her, but I got too wrapped up in the stream chat.


    "Well, I''m glad you''re enjoying the stream, but I don''t appreciate being ignored while I''m fighting my hardest."


    "I really am sorry."


    I''ve never had many friends, so chatting with viewers who actually respond to what I''m saying is a lot more fun than I expected¡­ but that''s no excuse.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Is she your girlfriend?


    : The classic "boyfriend too absorbed in his game" situation.


    : Could this be¡­ something more?


    : licks finger Yep, that''s the taste of romance!


    : Stop it, some folks in Asagao''s chat are losing their minds.


    : LMAO


    : Ah, young love.


    "Th-That''s not it!"


    Asakawa-san is flusteredly waving her hands at the camera. Should I do the same? No, that''d be too embarrassing. This is definitely one of those moments where I''d get teased relentlessly.

 Chapter 36 - 36: Surprises and Monsters

    After that, Asakawa-san continued fighting for quite some time while I answered questions and engaged in trivial chit-chat, and eventually, the stream came to an end. In hindsight, considering the number of viewers that tuned in, I''d say it was a successful first stream.


    "Thanks for today."


    "¡­Why so suddenly?"


    "Oh, it''s nothing, just the usual."


    By "the usual," she probably means me tagging along for her training. If that''s the case, then it''s no problem at all. After all, in exchange, Asakawa-san has been teaching me how to stream, including what to avoid doing during a stream. Personally, I think this specialized knowledge is as valuable as the information I have about the deeper layers of the dungeon.


    "So, what are you planning to do after graduation, Tsukasa-kun?"


    "I''ve already decided."


    "What!? That''s fast!"


    After today''s stream, I felt like I had a clear vision of my future. To be honest, before this, I thought I''d just spend my days diving into dungeons, but I''ve found something I truly want to do.


    "Maybe something like continuing to explore dungeons as an EX-rank explorer?"


    "I''m going to start my own streaming company and become the CEO!"


    "¡­What?"


    "If you''re still freelancing by then, I''ll definitely invite you to join!"


    There don''t seem to be many large companies that employ streamers, especially those specializing in dungeon streaming. Most dungeon streamers are independent, and it seems like virtual streamers playing games are more common. In other words, starting a company focused on dungeon streaming might be a great opportunity.


    "Haha¡­ You''re such an interesting person, Tsukasa-kun!"


    "Hey, that''s a bit¡­ hurtful¡­"


    "No, I think it''s great! If you''ve found a dream, you should definitely chase it!"


    Laughing, Asakawa-san started running off. I was staring at her retreating back when she suddenly turned around.


    "Make sure you come and get me when you do!"


    "¡­Sure." S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Don''t say things like that¡­ like a princess. But if starting a company to bring her on board is part of that, then maybe that''s not so bad.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : So yeah, I''m planning to start a company specializing in dungeon streaming in the future.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Wait, what?


    : What do you mean by that?


    : Does this guy even listen to himself?


    : This is new¡­


    The next day, while streaming solo in the lower floors, I mentioned my newly formed dream as more people tuned in than I expected, and I got a somewhat surprised reaction.


    "I''ve got plenty of money, so starting the company itself isn''t an issue, but I want to run it in the black, you know?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Did he just casually drop that he''s rich?


    : Well, he is EX-rank¡­


    : He must be making bank.


    : I wonder how much those deep-layer magic stones go for.


    : Even the strong ones in the lower layers are worth as much as a month''s salary for a regular worker, I heard.


    : Whoa.


    The chat seems to be going off on a tangent about money, but I''d rather not discuss finances. Although, I guess I did bring it up first with the company talk¡­


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : CEO and streamer at the same time, huh?


    : Sounds good.


    : That actually sounds fun.


    : Will Asagao-chan join?


    : Based on what he said, probably.


    : CEO dating one of the company''s streamers¡­ can I make a fanfic out of this?


    : Please don''t.


    "Well, let''s save that topic for January¡­ We''re about to hit the deeper layers."


    We''re currently on the 60th floor of Shibuya Dungeon. According to my viewers, the only other person who''s streamed past this point is that troublemaker, Rion Kamishiro. Since it''s the golden hour on a weekday evening, the viewer count is pretty high.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Finally¡­


    : This is going to be legendary.


    : Every stream he does is legendary.


    : The lower floors are already legendary.


    : What kind of hellhole is the deep layer?


    : He called the one in Australia a "fun hell," right?


    : What about Shibuya?


    "It''s just a plain old hell."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : It''s hell.


    Of course, it is. What were they expecting in the deep layers of a dungeon? Even so, I think this place is still way better than the Nagoya Dungeon.


    "Alright, here we go. The 61st floor is basically a giant lake."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Huh?


    : What does that even mean?


    : Why''d he say something so weird?


    : That makes no sense.


    It''s exactly what it sounds like. The 61st floor is a vast, shallow lake that reflects the light from the crystals on the ceiling, making it sparkle like the famous Uyuni Salt Flat. There''s no other way to describe it.


    As I descend the stairs and step onto the 61st floor, I''m greeted by a lake that stretches out, reflecting the crystal''s light in a dazzling display. Honestly, it''s a breathtakingly beautiful place.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Seriously?


    : This should be a World Heritage site.


    : Except it''s not.


    : I''m going to become a dungeon explorer now.


    : Remember, this is the deep layer.


    : You need to be at least A-rank to enter, so good luck with that.


    : Still, I''d love to see it.


    : "Hell"? Nah, this is paradise.


    : They must''ve been lying about it being hell.


    "¡­There''s something here."


    Some viewers are calling this place paradise, but that''s because they''re not actually here. Honestly, I have the strength to handle the enemies on this floor without any real trouble, but that doesn''t mean it''s not a hassle.


    From the moment I set foot in the water, I could feel the hostility emanating from somewhere below. The chat continues to marvel at the beauty, but I know something is getting closer.


    "Oh, here we go!"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : !?


    : What is that?


    : I''ve changed my mind; I''m not becoming an explorer.


    : I''m going back to the upper floors.


    : Yikes¡­


    : My brain just shut down.


    As the water ripples, a massive, worm-like creature with a mouth but no eyes bursts out from below. If it were just the size of a regular worm, it wouldn''t be so bad, but this thing is enormous. Eyeballing it, I''d say it''s around 20 meters long. And that''s just one there are probably a few more lurking below.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Gross.


    : Nope, nope, nope.


    : I can''t with this.


    : That''s disgusting.


    : Too much.


    : This is nasty.


    : Gross!


    The creature tries to chomp down on me, but I sidestep it just in time. It lets out a bizarre, unearthly screech as it turns and charges at me again, moving at an unnervingly fast pace for something with no limbs.


    "''Kama-itachi.''"


    Like I said before, I''m more than capable of handling this level of enemy. The worm speeds towards me, but a quick slash from Kama-itachi cuts it cleanly in half, and its bisected body sails past me.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Strong.


    : He just one-shotted a deep-layer monster, seriously?


    : I''m starting to grasp just how powerful EX-rank really is.


    : We''re getting this content for free?


    : We should be paying for this.


    : LOL


    : Is it really okay to show this deep-layer content for free?


    The chat''s going off about something, but I haven''t figured out the monetization and donation features yet, so that''ll have to wait. I''ll ask Asakawa-san to teach me after school sometime soon.


    For now, I''ve got to deal with the other worms hiding below.


    "Huh?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Wait, what?


    : Something''s not right.


    : There''s a shark fin cutting through the water.


    : This dungeon just has everything, doesn''t it?


    : How are worms and sharks swimming in ankle-deep water?


    That''s what I''ve been wondering. How are these massive creatures swimming around in water that barely covers my ankles? You''d think that with these giant beasts moving around, I''d be sinking into a bottomless pit, but here I am, still standing.


    Lost in thought, I almost get hit by another worm launching itself at me, but I slice off its head with Kama-itachi. Just then, a shark-like creature bites the worm in half.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Did that monster just eat another monster?


    : Can that even happen?


    : It''s the circle of life, I guess.


    : They''re monsters, though.


    : I guess that''s just how it works in the deep layers (LOL).


    Actually, that''s correct. For some reason, in the deep layers, monsters do sometimes eat each other. This phenomenon isn''t unique to Shibuya Dungeon; it''s observed worldwide. Some say that this predatory behavior might be why these monsters are so strong.


    Anyway, the problem now is that the shark about as big as a megalodon but with frog-like legs jutting out from its body is glaring at me.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Kinda cute.


    : It''s got little legs.


    : Like a giant tadpole, but not cute.


    : That size isn''t cute at all.


    : How big is it?


    : How long was that worm, anyway?


    "The worm was about 20 meters long."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : So this thing''s like 30 meters, then.


    : Whoa¡­


    : That''s massive.


    Just walking around, this thing makes the ground shake.


    "I really don''t like this shark."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Is it strong?


    : Is this the part where the EX finally struggles?


    : The deep layers are no joke, huh?


    : Yeah, this place is seriously dangerous.


    I just really hate this shark. It''s not about whether it''s strong or weak, big or small none of that matters.


    "I tried making shark fin soup out of one of these before, but it tasted awful."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Who cares?


    : Be serious.


    : What?


    : You''ve got to be kidding.


    : Why did you even think that was a good idea?


    : This guy''s nuts.


    That''s harsh. It seems like the viewers aren''t exactly on my side.


    Since it''s inedible, there''s no point in preserving its form. I''m going to take it down without holding back.

 Chapter 37 - 37: Volcanic Tortoise

    "Man, that shark and those worms were tough opponents."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Tough opponents (instant kill)


    : Tough opponents (sliced into three)


    : What do you mean by "tough"?


    : Can''t comprehend.


    : LOL


    : The concept of "tough" is breaking.


    : Even the deep layer seems easy for him!


    : Someone''s losing it here.


    Since they''re disgusting and inedible, I had Kama-itachi slice them into three, but in hindsight, maybe I should''ve taken my anger out on them more.


    That aside, I''ve noticed more English comments mixed in with the usual ones. Could it be that I have a decent number of overseas viewers? I can read English well enough, but speaking it is another matter, and I don''t have the reading speed to keep up with English comments in a fast-moving chat.


    "Do you think I should put ''Shibuya Dungeon Deep Layer'' in English in the stream title for the overseas viewers?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : If you do that, more people will definitely join.


    : But the chat might get flooded with English comments.


    : Can you even read English, Kisaragi?


    "I can read it to some extent¡­ By the way, it seems like everyone is sticking with calling me Kisaragi-kun."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Well, it''s easier to say.


    : Easier than Tsukasa-kun.


    : Better than UNKNOWN, right?


    : Kisaragi-kun sounds more friendly.


    : Go, Kisaragi-kun!


    : Is this a classmate?


    Hmm, if the viewers prefer it that way, I guess it''s fine. But it feels a bit underwhelming¡­ maybe that''s just the remnants of my ch¨±niby¨­ phase talking.


    "Anyway, let''s push further to the 65th floor as a test run."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : That''s not a number you should be reaching as a "test run."


    : Even the 41st floor is insane, to be honest.


    : My brain''s breaking.


    : Now I can''t be satisfied with anything less than deep-layer streams!


    If there''s this much demand, other deep-layer explorers should probably stream too. But they likely hate revealing their cards to others, like how gaming pros refuse to show their setups. It''s the same kind of thing.


    The 61st floor, which is like an endless expanse of shallow water resembling the Uyuni Salt Flats, mainly features aquatic creatures. You have monsters like the worms and sharks from earlier, or this strange lizard-like creature that just popped up in front of me.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : What is that?


    : Looks like a salamander.


    : Salamander (but it''s clearly 10 meters long).


    : Do salamanders have four eyes?


    : Of course not.


    : That''s a really gross color.


    : It''s funny how the viewers are slowly getting used to this.


    The strange creature that popped out from below does indeed have a rather disgusting color, as the viewers pointed out. Specifically, it''s a mix of fluorescent green and pink, a combination that''s visually harsh.


    "In the natural world, creatures with such striking colors often have poison, right?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Creatures with poison don''t usually get that big.


    : True.


    : Fluorescent colors usually mean poison.


    : It''s a warning color to make others stay away.


    "This guy''s definitely poisonous."


    This salamander-looking creature, which I''ve encountered before, suddenly released poison last time, causing me a lot of trouble.


    As the huge salamander shakes, it releases a yellow gas that spreads around its body. Just one breath of this gas is enough to make you dizzy, pretty nasty stuff.


    "''Karasu Tengu.''"


    Since the gas was spreading, I summoned Karasu Tengu to manipulate the wind and blow the poison away.


    The Karasu Tengu, which I created to specialize in wind manipulation, whips up a strong wind with its bird-like wings, clearing away the gas. Once the area is clear, Kama-itachi dives in and slices the salamander into pieces. Since I consider lizard-like creatures to be quite resilient, I made sure to have it dismembered thoroughly.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : A short-lived life.


    : Poor salamander-kun.


    : The poison''s gone already.


    : Tengu is so cool.


    : I want to be a summoner too.


    : Is there anything this guy can''t do?


    : He''s got it all, doesn''t he? sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The chat''s getting excited, but honestly, if they''re impressed by the 61st floor, I''m not sure what to say. For those who regularly dive into the deep layers, the 61st floor is a relatively safe area with few troublesome enemies.


    In the end, I reached the 65th floor without any issues, just like usual. Unlike the lower layers, the environment in the deep layers changes frequently. The shallow lake environment only extends to the 62nd floor; from the 63rd floor onward, it changes to¡­ a volcanic zone.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : It''s hell.


    : We''ve been saying it''s hell from the start.


    : But I didn''t think it''d be this bad.


    : Didn''t expect it to be literally hell.


    : I''m sweating just watching.


    : Dungeons are terrifying.


    "It''s definitely hot down here."


    By the time you reach the 65th floor, the sheer size of the floor becomes overwhelming. The volcanic zone from the 63rd to 65th floors makes it feel even larger, despite the narrow paths. With molten lava spewing everywhere, calling this place hell isn''t far off.


    "I came down here as a test, but how''s everyone feeling?"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Honestly¡­ I''m full.


    : It was fun, though?


    : Hmm, maybe there''s a slight disconnect in understanding here?


    "That''s just how explorers are."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Don''t lump us in with you.


    : Yikes.


    : Don''t think everyone''s like this guy.


    : Of course not.


    : If there were more people like him, all the dungeons would''ve been cleared by now.


    Still, it''s especially hot today on the 65th floor. Whenever that''s the case, it usually means that guy is around¡­


    "There it is."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : What is it?


    : I don''t see anything.


    : What''s up with your eyesight?


    : I won''t be surprised no matter what shows up now.


    The mountain in front of me¡­ moved.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Huh?


    : What?


    : What?


    : Who said they wouldn''t be surprised?


    : This makes no sense.


    : This is hell.


    A mountain-like monster, resembling a tortoise with a volcano on its back, is lumbering toward me. I described it as "lumbering," but it''s baring its fangs and spewing lava from the volcano on its back as it approaches.


    "It''s massive¡­ My neck hurts just looking up at it."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch


    : Why are you laughing?


    : Don''t just brush it off as a neck ache.


    : So this is what the deep layers are like.


    : No wonder no one wants to film down here.


    : Hmm¡­


    : Maybe you should run?


    "Since that''s the target for today, I won''t be running."


    Originally, I didn''t have a specific target in mind, but if I leave this volcanic tortoise alone, it''ll eventually end up as a task for me or my grandma to take down. Might as well take care of it now while I''m here.


    The tortoise, which is several tens of meters in size, makes the already sweltering 65th floor feel even more like hell, so it''s better to deal with it quickly.


    "Alright¡­"


    This tortoise won''t go down with half-hearted firepower, and if I let my guard down, it could easily incinerate me. Even though it''s appearing on the 65th floor, it''s clearly an 80th-floor-class monster. I''ll need to give it my all to take it down.


    Looks like it''s time to get serious again.

 Chapter 38 - 38: Shikigami Powers Unleashed

    "Fuu¡­ ''Gashadokuro.''"


    The volcanic tortoise already recognizes me as an enemy, so it''s best to start the attack quickly.


    "''Raiju,'' ''Ushi-oni.''"


    I pour magic into Gashadokuro, summoning it larger than usual, while having Raiju and Ushi-oni attack. Gashadokuro is about 20 meters tall this time, but the volcanic tortoise is more than twice its size. Clearly, regular shikigami alone won''t have enough firepower to take down a tortoise of this size head-on.


    When the firepower seems insufficient, the standard practice is for me to unleash a powerful spell myself.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : A shikigami festival, huh?


    : The apocalypse has begun.


    : I heard if Kisaragi loses, the world ends.


    : It''s actually not that far-fetched, which is the problem.


    : By the way, have you ever beaten this tortoise before?


    : Isn''t the deep layer just too terrifying?


    "I have. This tortoise is quite strong, but it''s not immortal."


    Asakawa-san''s method of compressing lightning magic and releasing it like a beam is an intriguing way to enhance power. Since I usually rely on shikigami in battle, I never thought of such an application of magic. The theory behind compression is simple enough: condense the magic and release it all at once with the resulting force. Even I can¡­ do it.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : He just fired a beam!


    : He''s definitely a robot.


    : Japan''s artificial weapon, I see.


    : This is insane.


    The compressed lightning beam I fired was indeed powerful¡ªit shaved off a corner of the volcanic tortoise''s shell. But the control is difficult, and I missed. On top of that, the excessive compression made the magic incredibly inefficient. For someone like Asakawa-san, who''s trying to increase her magical reserves, this might be just the right amount of strain.


    "Gashadokuro is struggling¡­ I guess I''ll have to double the magic I pour in if I want it to push back."


    The volcanic tortoise is formidable, as expected of an 80th-floor-class enemy. Raiju and Ushi-oni won''t be enough to take it down¡ªin fact, if I leave them like this, they''ll all lose. I could try supporting them with another well-aimed beam, but there''s a quicker way to handle this. Sure, I''ll be revealing my hand to the whole world, but it doesn''t really matter.


    I dismiss Gashadokuro, Raiju, and Ushi-oni, then gather magic in my hands for a new summoning.


    "''Kijin.''"


    I''m summoning my trump card in shikigami magic. This is the strongest shikigami I possess, the one that commands the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : A woman just appeared!? Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Did it¡­ speak!?


    : Shikigami can talk!?


    : Is this human transmutation¡­?


    : Is there anything this guy can''t do?


    With a laugh, Kijin, who emerges with her long black hair flowing, speaks to me, making me smile wryly. It''s true that it''s been a while since I summoned Kijin¡ªor the Twelve Heavenly Generals¡ªbut I didn''t expect to see her smile in this scorching volcanic area.


    "''Shall we proceed?''"


    "I''m counting on you¡­ ''Byakko.''"


    I summon Byakko, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. Known as one of the Four Symbols in Japan, Byakko is the guardian beast of the west, associated with the element of metal in the Five Elements theory.


    Kijin is a shikigami who can do almost anything, essentially acting as my assistant when I summon the Twelve Heavenly Generals. She''s a reliable beauty, but sometimes she likes to tease me¡­ which can be a bit much.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Byakko!


    : The Four Symbols!


    : That''s a god!


    : Isn''t this too strong?


    : We could probably just let her handle everything, couldn''t we?


    My fastest regular shikigami is Raiju, but among the Twelve Heavenly Generals, Byakko is faster. Byakko, who''s large enough for me to ride, doesn''t need instructions from me to know what to do. In the blink of an eye, Byakko disappears and rushes toward the volcanic tortoise.


    "''I''ll support you.''"


    One of Kijin''s special abilities allows her to strengthen the shikigami I summon. For instance, even if Byakko''s strength alone isn''t enough to deal a fatal blow to the volcanic tortoise, with Kijin''s enhancement¡­ it''s like applying a buff in a game.


    "¡­That''s pretty flashy."


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Huh?


    : This is getting ridiculous.


    : Is this a kaiju battle?


    : The winner will just become our next enemy.


    : Byakko isn''t an enemy, right?


    Byakko creates metallic blades from the ground with magic, and thanks to Kijin''s enhancement, the blades pierce through the volcanic tortoise''s shell with ease. Pinned by the massive blades emerging from all directions, the volcanic tortoise can''t resist as Byakko bites into its throat.


    "''Now, why don''t you try that spell from earlier?''"


    "¡­I''ll leave the control to you."


    "''That''s why I''m here.''"


    Without Kijin''s prompt, I start compressing lightning magic, disregarding control. I focus solely on power, not caring where the beam might go, but that''s where Kijin comes in to manage it.


    The target, the volcanic tortoise, is already pinned down and has lost interest in me, spitting out molten rocks in a desperate attempt to fight Byakko. So all I need to do is aim and fire.


    "''¡­Well done, as expected.''"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : Huh?


    : One-shot, LOL.


    : That''s not something a human should be firing.


    : Apologize to Asagao-chan!


    : EX-rankers are just busted, I swear.


    : LOL.


    : Poor volcanic tortoise.


    : Just subscribed to your channel.


    : Stream every day!


    "Even though the recoil from the shot hurt my shoulder¡­ the comments here are so harsh¡­"


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : If you can fire beams, you''re not gonna die from recoil.


    : You did this to yourself.


    : Don''t steal Asagao-chan''s technique and turn it into a stronger version!


    : Do another collab with Asagao!


    : There are unrelated comments popping up here.


    : You''re trending number one on social media.


    Well, I didn''t expect the beam to pierce through the volcanic tortoise and then disintegrate it entirely. Byakko is glaring at me like she almost got caught in the blast, but for now, I''ll consider it a win.


    Still, my shoulder hurts. It''s like shooting a gun one-handed without thinking about the recoil.


    "Oh, thank you for getting me to the top trend!"


    That said, I''m still happy to be trending. It''s not like I crave attention, but it feels good as a human to be recognized by others.


    "''Hehe¡­ finally, your greatness has been revealed to the world¡­ from now on¡ª''"


    "Okay, you can go back now."


    "''Ah, how heartless¡­''"


    Kijin is incredibly useful, but once she starts talking, she doesn''t stop, so I quickly dismissed her.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Ch:


    : How should I feel about a shikigami that simps for its summoner?


    : That was just us, wasn''t it?


    : We were beautiful and simping.


    : That''s what I''d look like if I became a cute girl who simps for my idol.


    "¡­Please don''t make comments that make it harder to summon Kijin next time."


    Sigh¡­ It''s been a while since I summoned her, but it''s just as exhausting mentally as I remembered. Maybe next time, I''ll just stick to summoning Byakko alone.

 Chapter 39 - 39: Thread 4: The EX-Rank Phenomenon

    211: Anonymous Explorer


    The guy who made all other dungeon streamers obsolete.


    212: Anonymous Explorer


    No one else can match going into the lower floors, so it''s understandable.


    213: Anonymous Explorer


    We only need this guy as a dungeon streamer now.


    214: Anonymous Explorer


    But there are people who watch dungeon streams just to see the girls, you know!?


    215: Anonymous Explorer


    In reality, he''s left most dungeon streamers in the dust.


    216: Anonymous Explorer


    First, he collabs with the famous streamer Asagao in the lower floors.


    Second, he streams solo from the deep floors.


    No other streamer can keep up, LOL.


    217: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾216


    The low-tier streamers are probably sulking on social media now.


    218: Anonymous Explorer


    When a famous person appears, they just sulk about it, anyway.


    219: Anonymous Explorer


    Really¡­


    220: Anonymous Explorer


    Why did they think they could beat an EX-rank?


    221: Anonymous Explorer


    The deep floors were more of a hell than I imagined.


    222: Anonymous Explorer


    For streamers, numbers are everything.


    They''re sulking because a newcomer overtook them in the rankings.


    223: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾221


    After seeing that, of course everyone would be satisfied with just the safe middle or lower floors.


    224: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors are safe?


    225: Anonymous Explorer


    Your sense of danger is totally messed up.


    226: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank is what''s messed up.


    227: Anonymous Explorer


    I was admiring the beautiful lake, and then suddenly it turned into a volcanic area¡ªmade me laugh.


    228: Anonymous Explorer


    The environmental changes are so drastic, you''ll catch a cold.


    229: Anonymous Explorer


    You might actually catch one, so stop it.


    230: Anonymous Explorer


    The temperature difference must be insane.


    231: Anonymous Explorer


    The temperature difference between Kisaragi-kun and the viewers is also insane.


    232: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾231


    Isn''t that just because Kisaragi-kun is weird?


    233: Anonymous Explorer


    If he''s hanging out in the deep floors all the time...


    234: Anonymous Explorer


    No wonder he''s lost his mind.


    235: Anonymous Explorer


    Your mind would definitely break.


    236: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you think this will make more people want to become explorers?


    At least, I''ve given up.


    237: Anonymous Explorer


    I think I''ll just stick to the upper floors.


    238: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾237


    You probably don''t even have an explorer license.


    239: Anonymous Explorer


    If the deep floors of Shibuya Dungeon are like that, what about the others?


    240: Anonymous Explorer


    Shibuya Dungeon hasn''t even been fully conquered yet.


    241: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾238


    Are you picking a fight?


    242: Anonymous Explorer


    But the volcanic turtle that appeared in the stream looked incredibly strong.


    243: Anonymous Explorer


    He called it a rare monster.


    244: Anonymous Explorer


    It seems like there aren''t many monsters of that level, though.


    245: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾241


    Oh? Are you getting mad because he told the truth?£Þ£Þ


    246: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾245


    Die.


    247: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾245


    £¾£¾246


    Don''t start a fight here.


    248: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ll ban you.


    249: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder how much a deep-floor magic stone would sell for.


    250: Anonymous Explorer


    I wouldn''t want to go to a place like that even for a billion yen.


    251: Anonymous Explorer


    Exactly.


    252: Anonymous Explorer


    Being an explorer isn''t a job for humans.


    253: Anonymous Explorer


    True that.


    254: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors aren''t so bad, though.


    255: Anonymous Explorer


    There are probably only a handful of people in the world who can explore the deep floors.


    256: Anonymous Explorer


    Even overseas, there are hardly any lower-floor streams.


    257: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun was also talking about deep floors overseas.


    258: Anonymous Explorer


    WDAO is a secretive organization, but I guess they''re doing their job.


    259: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, dungeons are full of state secrets.


    260: Anonymous Explorer


    True that.


    261: Anonymous Explorer


    I want him to stream from overseas dungeons too.


    262: Anonymous Explorer


    But I really want him to conquer Shibuya Dungeon first.


    263: Anonymous Explorer


    Was that a shikigami he used to defeat the volcanic turtle?


    264: Anonymous Explorer


    If he conquers Shibuya Dungeon, he''ll get the Order of Cultural Merit.


    265: Anonymous Explorer


    The Order of Cultural Merit is just for boosting government approval ratings.


    266: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾263


    It was a shikigami.


    267: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the point of getting the Order of Cultural Merit?


    268: Anonymous Explorer


    Shikigami can talk like that?


    269: Anonymous Explorer


    Since he creates them himself, it''s basically like playing with dolls.


    270: Anonymous Explorer


    Who knows?


    271: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾263


    He mentioned "Kijin" and "Byakko," so it''s probably the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    272: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s that?


    273: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t that an Onmyoji thing?


    274: Anonymous Explorer


    Like the shikigami Abe no Seimei controlled?


    275: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾272


    In simple terms, it''s an upgraded shikigami¡ªbasically a group of gods.


    276: Anonymous Explorer


    Did he really summon gods?


    277: Anonymous Explorer


    Are there even gods?


    278: Anonymous Explorer


    With dungeons around, does that even surprise you anymore?


    279: Anonymous Explorer


    A lot of people seem confused, but Onmyoji were more like fortune-tellers than mages.


    They were popular in the Heian period and were basically called Onmyoji.


    The Twelve Heavenly Generals come from a type of divination called "Rikujin Shin-ka," which divides directions into 12 and assigns important gods or divine beasts to each direction.


    Also, the Twelve Heavenly Generals and the Twelve Divine Generals are different.


    The Twelve Heavenly Generals are from Rikujin Shin-ka, originating in China, while the Twelve Divine Generals are from Buddhism, originating in India.


    280: Anonymous Explorer


    I see¡­


    281: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾279


    We''ve got an expert here.


    282: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾279


    So helpful.


    283: Anonymous Explorer


    So, what does that mean?


    284: Anonymous Explorer


    (Confused Cat meme)


    285: Anonymous Explorer


    Kijin is the leader of the Twelve Heavenly Generals, so it''s probably the strongest one.


    286: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t really get it.


    287: Anonymous Explorer


    I just know that Kisaragi-kun is amazing.


    288: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, this is definitely EX-level stuff.


    289: Anonymous Explorer


    Some might recognize Kijin as Tianyi Shen.


    290: Anonymous Explorer


    Is that really true?


    291: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾289


    I have no idea what that is.


    292: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop dropping complicated terms suddenly.


    293: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun¡ª


    Commands gods¡ª


    Strong.


    294: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾293


    This.


    295: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾293


    So clear and simple.


    296: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾293


    Finally, a summary even we short-attention-span people can understand.


    297: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really that helpful?


    298: Anonymous Explorer


    You guys don''t understand anything, do you?


    299: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    300: Anonymous Explorer


    Just knowing he''s "strong" is enough.


    301: Anonymous Explorer


    Yep, that''s good enough.


    302: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, this thread is full of idiots.


    303: Anonymous Explorer


    Why not just summon a bunch of yokai and have a Hyakki Yagyo instead of using the Twelve Heavenly Generals? S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    304: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa = Leader of Hyakki Yagyo theory.


    305: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m against this new theory.


    306: Anonymous Explorer


    Was there even a theory before this¡­?


    307: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾304


    You''re banned from the academic community.


    308: Anonymous Explorer


    He was exploring the deep floors of Shibuya Dungeon, so what''s next?


    309: Anonymous Explorer


    Obviously, going beyond the 65th floor.


    310: Anonymous Explorer


    Another trip through hell, huh?


    311: Anonymous Explorer


    Just watching is fine by me.


    312: Anonymous Explorer


    When you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss also gazes into you.


    313: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾312


    Good morning, Nietzsche.


    314: Anonymous Explorer


    Calling a historical figure "Good morning" is hilarious.


    315: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s gotta be blasphemy, right?


    316: Anonymous Explorer


    In this case, "He who fights with monsters should be careful lest he thereby become a monster" is more relevant.


    317: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾316


    He''s already a monster, so it''s fine.


    318: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s really not fine, though¡­


    319: Anonymous Explorer


    Nietzsche was talking about mental stuff, though.


    320: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t mess around with Beyond Good and Evil.


    321: Anonymous Explorer


    When you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss gazes back at you.


    322: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾321


    Just staring at it, huh.


    323: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾321


    Double take, huh?


    324: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun said he might start streaming requests from the Explorer Association too, lol. [Image]


    325: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾324


    That''s not funny, though?


    326: Anonymous Explorer


    What¡­?


    327: Anonymous Explorer


    Is there anything he won''t stream?


    328: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾324


    So he''s gonna show us not just deep floors but also dungeon anomalies?


    329: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s basically the PR for the Explorer Association at this point.


    330: Anonymous Explorer


    Soon he''ll start posting etiquette guides or something.


    331: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾330


    I''d actually want to see that.


    332: Anonymous Explorer


    "When summoning shikigami, please be mindful of your surroundings."


    333: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾332


    That only applies to you, lol.


    334: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop teaching useless etiquette, lol.


    335: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder if he''ll collab with other dungeon streamers.


    336: Anonymous Explorer


    But there are so few middle-floor streamers.


    337: Anonymous Explorer


    They''d just drag him down, lol.


    338: Anonymous Explorer


    Forget that, just show more of the deep floors.


    339: Anonymous Explorer


    He should team up with Kamishiro Rion in an American dungeon!


    340: Anonymous Explorer


    America would be destroyed.


    341: Anonymous Explorer


    Go to Antarctica.


    342: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s this idea that it''s okay to destroy the Antarctica Dungeon.


    343: Anonymous Explorer


    But the Antarctic Treaty says it''s off-limits.


    344: Anonymous Explorer


    Getting to Antarctica alone is already a huge challenge.


    345: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this guy even thinking?


    346: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably not.


    347: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t think he really thinks much at all.


    348: Anonymous Explorer


    He probably just started streaming because he was bored.


    349: Anonymous Explorer


    He said it''s because it''s trendy.


    350: Anonymous Explorer


    Such a bandwagoner, lol.


    351: Anonymous Explorer


    Bandwagoner (EX).


    352: Anonymous Explorer


    He might be a bandwagoner with streaming, but he''s not with dungeons.


    353: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    354: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rankers are all weirdos.


    355: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course.


    356: Anonymous Explorer


    He said himself that you have to be crazy to be a dungeon explorer.


    357: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop saying unnecessary things.


    358: Anonymous Explorer


    That only applies to those going beyond the lower floors.


    359: Anonymous Explorer


    The upper floors are like a part-time job.


    360: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no real danger involved.


    361: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish he''d come down to Okinawa where I am. I want to be in the stream.


    362: Anonymous Explorer


    Do it yourself, baldy.


    363: Anonymous Explorer


    We should have an off-site meeting when he announces his next stream.


    364: Anonymous Explorer


    Shibuya Dungeon is fine with me.


    365: Anonymous Explorer


    Kofu Dungeon is fine too.


    366: Anonymous Explorer


    Nagoya Dungeon is fine too.


    367: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾366


    There''s no way I''m going to Nagoya Dungeon.


    368: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾366


    Stop casually throwing in something so harsh.


    369: Anonymous Explorer


    Nagoya gets treated so badly, lol.


    370: Anonymous Explorer


    Why so much hate for Nagoya¡­?


    371: Anonymous Explorer


    Go look it up.

 Chapter 40 - 40: Summer Break Dilemmas

    "..."


    "What''s wrong? You look so gloomy."


    "...I''ve been thinking that despite rarely coming to school because of dungeons, it''s already the summer break of my third year in high school."


    "Ah¡­"


    In the classroom that had emptied out, I found myself lost in thought, but the time had already passed 1 PM. Today was the closing ceremony for the first semester of our third year. We gathered in the gym, where the principal gave an unnecessarily long speech¡­ and then everything wrapped up before noon. Everyone felt the start of summer vacation and dispersed at once.


    Watching them enjoy their youthful days, I couldn''t help but feel a little hollow, like I was just a corporate drone in the dungeon.


    "But lately, you''ve been coming to school quite often, right?"


    "...Maybe because I''ve made some friends."


    "You mean me? That makes me happy."


    When she gives me that pure smile, it makes me feel weak, so please stop.


    In reality, I never missed school except for public absences, but there were times when I went on overnight dungeon expeditions to Kyushu simply because I didn''t feel like going to school. It was a way to skip class. Well, even if public absences are counted as attendance, it doesn''t mean I''m exempt from regular exams, so I still had to study hard.


    Lately, since I''ve made a friend in Asakawa-san, I''ve been trying to go to school as much as possible. Because of that, Shinano-san teased me by saying, "Kisaragi-kun finally has a youth!"


    "Speaking of summer break¡­"


    "Do you want to go somewhere!?"


    "...What about studying for entrance exams?"


    For a third-year high school student, summer means either studying for exams or finishing the last of your club activities. The fact that she''s asking about going out makes me think Asakawa-san is really an extrovert. For someone like me who either lazes around under the air conditioner or dives into dungeons, such a thought process is unimaginable.


    "Entrance exams, huh¡­"


    When you bring up studying for entrance exams to a third-year high school girl, it usually doesn''t put them in a good mood, but Asakawa-san seems more pensive than upset.


    "You see, I''m a bit conflicted¡­"


    "Conflicted? About your choice of university?"


    "Well, not exactly. I''m wondering if I should go to university or just continue as a dungeon streamer."


    It''s a tough choice, no doubt.


    For someone like me, who already has a solid standing as an EX-rank explorer, there''s no need to go to university at all. The fact that I probably wouldn''t be able to attend regularly, like in high school, is another reason.


    Asakawa-san could likely make a living as an explorer and streamer if she continues as she is. However, the issue is how her parents feel about it. Being a streamer is one thing, but living as an explorer who risks their life is something an ordinary person would consider insane.


    "My parents are supportive, saying I should live the life I want¡­ but I still can''t decide."


    "It''s a major life decision. It''s understandable."


    Well, I never had parents from the start, so it was irrelevant for me, but Asakawa-san isn''t in the same situation.


    "Hey¡­ do you know any explorers who''ve continued even into old age?"


    "My grandma¡­ Jinguji Kaede-san is one."


    "Oh¡­ Japan''s strongest?"


    Now that she mentions it, that nickname does ring a bell. I only remembered her as the fastest explorer.


    "She''s 67 years old this year."


    "Really!? I thought she was younger."


    "Maybe it''s because she''s been an explorer, but she still stands tall and looks quite impressive."


    "Yeah. She''s probably a role model for many women."


    And to think her husband is just a regular person. Can you believe someone could marry such an extraordinary woman and still be considered an ordinary person? Even at 67, she''s strong enough to spar with me head-on.


    "Well, her fighting style is completely different from yours, but¡­ she''s strong."


    "I wonder if I could become like that?"


    "Who knows."


    People born in recent years tend to have a higher potential for magical power. It''s not a hypothesis but a fact. Yet, even in this age, Jinguji Kaede exists as someone whose strength far surpasses recent explorers, like a glitch in the world.


    Well, there are always people who are like glitches, regardless of the era. I''m somewhat aware that I''m one of those people. I know my strength isn''t something I''ve gained through effort but rather a natural talent.


    "That was kind of a strange conversation, huh?"


    "Was it? Isn''t this the kind of conversation close friends have?"


    Whether the topics are specific or vague might depend on the person, but at least for me, I think friends should be able to talk about their future without hesitation.


    "Friends, huh."


    Asakawa-san muttered the word "friends" as if she were savoring it, looking somewhat lonely. Seeing that expression made me want to think deeply about it, but knowing I''m not very perceptive when it comes to people''s feelings, I figured it''s best not to say anything foolish.


    "¡­As I mentioned before, I''m thinking of starting a streaming company."


    "Oh¡­ the one where you''ll come to get me?"


    "Y-Yes¡­ but doesn''t that phrase create some misunderstandings?"


    "It''s fine!"


    No, it''s not fine at all.


    "So, I was thinking of making it a dungeon streaming company¡­ but maybe it would be better to accept other types of streamers too."


    "Why''s that?"


    "Well¡­ I did some research online, and it turns out there aren''t that many dungeon streamers."


    "Oh, you didn''t know?"


    I had no idea.


    I just assumed that since Asakawa-san was doing it, everyone else was too, but I was surprised to find out how few people actually do it. Well, there are a few, but it seems like streams of the top floors or upper floors have become unpopular recently, and they''re struggling. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Not everyone can stream from the lower or deep floors like you, Kisaragi-kun¡­ so in that sense, you might be monopolizing the audience."


    "..."


    I can''t deny it.


    "And you''re okay with that?"


    "Are you?"


    Let it go.


    "I really want you to join my company."


    "You mentioned that before."


    "¡­I know it''s a selfish request, but would you consider not going to university and working for me instead?"


    "¡­Is this a proposal?"


    I-I know asking someone to work for you sounds like a proposal, but that''s not what I meant!


    Why is Asakawa-san blushing? If you''re the one teasing, you shouldn''t be embarrassed!


    "W-Well, I wouldn''t mind if it means I get to work with you."


    "With me?"


    "Yes."


    Well, I''m trying to recruit someone close to me, so I can''t really say anything, but is it okay to work for someone just because they''re the boss?


    "Because we''re friends, right?"


    "¡­Yes, Asakawa-san is my friend."


    "I see."


    Why!?


    Why does she seem a little upset when I agree that we''re friends!?


    "It''s okay. I''ll slowly help you become more aware of these things later."


    "M-More aware¡­ of emotions?"


    "Everything, really."


    Uh¡­ is this what they call a woman''s heart? I have no idea how to understand it.

 Chapter 41 - 41: Crab Hotpot and Casual Q&A

    "¡­So, it''s time for a strategy meeting."


    : He''s getting used to streaming, huh?


    : This is only his third time.


    : What do you mean "so"?


    : This guy is always so abrupt.


    : Do whatever you want.


    Today, instead of a dungeon stream, I''m streaming from home as a new challenge. Since my plan to hire only dungeon streamers fell through, I thought I might as well consider hiring virtual streamers too. So, I''m thinking of trying out some game streaming in the future.


    "Remember how I mentioned wanting to start a company to manage dungeon streamers?"


    : Did you?


    : I don''t remember.


    : Did he say that?


    : No clue.


    : I think he mentioned it before diving into the deep floors.


    : Ah, yeah¡­ maybe?


    "You guys are so nonchalant."


    : You''re one to talk.


    : You''re the last person who should say that.


    : Kisaragi-kun, really?


    : The master of unplanned actions is speaking?


    I''ve realized what my viewers think of me. Fine, if you want to pick a fight, I''ll take you on, you jerks.


    "So¡­ I recently found out that there are actually very few people who specialize in dungeon streaming."


    : Yeah.


    : We knew that.


    : Wait, you didn''t know?


    : Seriously?


    : I knew it¡­ No planning, huh?


    "That''s why I''m thinking of recruiting people who aren''t just dungeon streamers. Well, I haven''t started the company yet."


    The reality is that there are far fewer dungeon streamers than I imagined. I thought it was more popular because I heard it was trending, but even those who do it aren''t specializing in dungeon streaming. Most are just hanging around the upper or top floors.


    "I think more people who can go to the lower floors should stream."


    : Like you.


    : Go to the deep floors.


    : Fancy room.


    : That TV is huge.


    : Living in such a luxurious place but still unplanned, huh?


    : He''s rich enough to get by without planning.


    "Does the decor of my room even matter?"


    Why are they so interested in my private life?


    "If you''re so curious, I might as well do a cooking stream with the crab I caught in the Takayama Dungeon."


    : That actually sounds interesting, so go ahead.


    : You caught a crab?


    : Is it tasty?


    : Do a cooking stream.


    : Let''s have a cooking and chat stream.


    : Cooking stream it is.


    Fine, now I''m really going to do a crab cooking stream because I''m pissed off.


    Don''t underestimate me. I''m about to cook a crab so luxurious that most people couldn''t afford it in their lifetime, and I won''t even tell you the price.


    : Isn''t that crab the kind that only ends up in high-end restaurants?


    : I think I saw something about Takayama Dungeon crab on TV.


    : Yeah, it made the news when it hit the market recently.


    "¡­"


    : He''s gone quiet, lol.


    : Silence means confirmation.


    : It''s a market price, huh?


    : What''s it worth, in billions?


    "I caught it myself, so it''s free."


    No matter what anyone says, the crab I''m about to eat is free because I caught it myself and just took a leg or two. So, of course, it''s free.


    : Stop trying to push the "free" angle.


    : Free (because he caught it himself).


    : Producer''s direct sale stream.


    : "I caught this myself" (Kisaragi Tsukasa).


    : Producer''s direct sale, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Can I have some too?


    : I''ll resell it.


    "I''ll be eating crab while answering questions, so think of something to ask."


    I''ve given up. This distance between me and the viewers is probably just right¡­ because they''re having fun messing around in the comment section anyway.


    Personally, I think crab tastes best when you keep it simple, like in a crab hotpot. And the best way to finish it off is with rice porridge. A bit of cooking sake, mirin, soy sauce, and Japanese dashi with a splash of ponzu make for a perfect flavor. Add some tofu and cabbage, and you''re done.


    The difference is that this isn''t just any crab hotpot; the crab is so high-end that it''s unbelievably delicious on its own.


    "Ah¡­ eating crab hotpot in an air-conditioned room in summer feels like a luxury."


    : Now I''m hungry.


    : Don''t stream this in the evening.


    : Damn, now I want crab.


    : Snow crab is in season in winter.


    : But red snow crab is good even in summer.


    "You guys can go enjoy some of the more common crab."


    : This guy just started roasting us.


    : Showing his true colors.


    : Stop teasing us with food.


    : Don''t you care about the salarymen working overtime?


    : Food teasing during the rush hour commute, lol, savage.


    Oh, now I can just picture my viewers clenching their teeth, glaring at me with resentment after they were enjoying teasing me earlier.


    "So, have you thought of any questions? I''m taking them now."


    : Is the crab tasty?


    : How tasty is the crab?


    : How much is the crab?


    : Just how good is that crab?


    "I''m not taking any crab-related questions."


    : Huh?


    : That''s the main question!


    : Answer the crab questions!


    : What kind of question filter is that?


    : I''m not answering anything about the crab.


    If you''re that curious, pay for a high-end restaurant meal yourself or catch your own crab in the Takayama Dungeon.


    : Are you dating Asagao-chan?


    : How far have you gone in Shibuya Dungeon?


    : Any dungeons abroad you''d never visit again?


    : Show us your Shikigami.


    : Isn''t dungeon exploring just torture?


    : What do you think of Japan?


    : What''s your rank in school?


    "Alright, I''ll answer them one by one¡­ Am I dating Asagao-san? No, I''m not."


    : She''s already put her personal info out there, so calling her Asakawa-san is fine.


    : She doesn''t seem to care.


    : Everyone knows her real name anyway.


    "Still, I''m being cautious."


    Why is everyone so curious about my relationship with Asakawa-san? To me, she''s just a regular friend, but I guess on the internet, if a guy and a girl are seen walking together, people assume they''re a couple. I get it¡­ as an introvert myself, I think the same when I see guys and girls walking together.


    "Next, Shibuya Dungeon? Hmm¡­ let''s see¡­ I think I got to around the 82nd floor last year."


    : Huh?


    : Didn''t they officially say the highest reached floor was 75?


    : Oh?


    : You''ve done it now.


    "Wait, really? Was it?"


    Crap, I didn''t bother reporting it because it''s a hassle. I haven''t gone to the bottom without reporting, but I''m pretty sure there are a few dungeons where I''ve gone lower than the officially reported highest floor.


    "Next question¡­ dungeons abroad I''d never visit again¡­ Greenland has one, so probably there?"


    : Where?


    : Greenland, lol.


    : That''s more remote than I expected.


    : Why?


    "It''s cold. Even inside the dungeon."


    : Oh¡­


    : What a lame reason.


    : Cold reduces your physical abilities.


    : Do you really have to go to such remote places?


    : Must be tough being EX.


    "No, I went for fun."


    Actually, it''s my dream to visit all the dungeons in the world.


    By the way, Greenland isn''t a country but an autonomous territory of Denmark, so to visit the Greenland Dungeon, you need permission from both Denmark and Greenland.


    "Next¡­ show us your Shikigami? Nope. Moving on¡­ Japan? Ah¡­ still a country that''s slow to react to everything."


    : Just a flat-out "no" and moving on, lol.


    : He just refused, lol.


    : Why the slight negativity towards Japan? S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Because he''s a slave to the country.


    : Show us the Shikigami.


    : Should an EX really be speaking negatively about the country?


    "Alright, next¡­ school rank? Uh¡­"


    I think I have it in one of my files¡­ how did I do again?


    "Out of 514 students¡­ I ranked 124th. My average score across the five subjects was around 72."


    : Not bad¡­ but not great either.


    : That''s pretty good.


    : Wow, I was 450th out of 500 back in the day.


    : I''m smarter than you.


    : I''m still in school and averaging 84 across five subjects.


    : Hmm, average.


    "Above average is good enough for me."


    I was never particularly good at studying, so just being above average means I''m doing fine. Let''s just leave it at that.

 Chapter 42 - 42: Honorary One of Us

    "So, about that¡­ I''ve been learning a bit more about dungeon streaming lately, but what do regular streamers even do?"


    : Hold on, I''m still savoring the crab.


    : High school boys sure can eat a lot.


    : Just watching made me full.


    : I eat like that too. By the way, I''m 36.


    : Hello, fatty.


    : Fatty checking in.


    : I can''t eat that much anymore.


    "All you guys want to talk about is crab, huh?"


    You must really like crab¡­ Well, I like it too.


    "High school boys don''t eat a lot just because they''re growing. Explorers consume a lot of magic power, so it naturally increases their appetite. Other explorers should understand this."


    : Yeah, I get it.


    : I thought my appetite was dropping in my 20s, but when I started exploring, it came back.


    : So magic power burns calories?


    : Apparently, though no one fully understands it.


    : Is the explorer diet going to become a trend?


    : No way.


    : You can only burn that many calories in the mid to lower floors.


    "You can easily lose weight by fighting non-stop for a few hours in the upper floors too."


    : That''s just because you''re moving around so much!


    : Isn''t it more about fearing for your life?


    : You''d lose weight even without burning magic power.


    Doesn''t seem like it''ll catch on.


    As an EX explorer, I wish more people would become explorers, but it looks like the explorer diet won''t become popular.


    "So, what do regular streamers do?"


    : This guy doesn''t give up.


    : Persistent, huh?


    : No idea.


    : I only watch dungeon streams.


    : Virtual streamers, maybe?


    : Probably gaming?


    Virtual streamers¡­ I suppose starting out as a virtual streamer has a lot of advantages these days.


    "I''ve never watched a virtual stream, so should I check one out?"


    : Switching to a reaction stream, lol.


    : From strategy meeting to cooking, now to video watching.


    : Is there anything he won''t do?


    : He can handle both the lower and deep floors.


    : He''ll do anything, huh?


    I''ve learned from my two previous streams that I can ignore 90% of what the viewers say. These people are here for entertainment, so you don''t get many serious answers. That''s not necessarily bad, but if you want serious responses, it''s better to ask on social media.


    "Do you guys know any famous virtual streamers?"


    : Nope.


    : I don''t watch them.


    : Maybe Torimomo Sasami?


    "¡­What kind of delicious-sounding name is that?"


    Pick a lane¡ªare you thigh meat or breast meat?


    : You just ate some way better crab, didn''t you?


    : Hurry up and watch a clip.


    : A thigh meat stream?


    : I like thigh meat.


    "The fans are called ''Thigh Meat''? So, it really is meat!"


    : She''s a bird-themed virtual streamer.


    : She''s a bird.


    "So, it''s meat!"


    : Stop saying that.


    : Torimomo Sasami, now being called meat by a newbie dungeon streamer.


    : Can''t help it.


    : Even her viewers call her meat.


    Now I''m curious¡­ A streamer who even her viewers call "meat"?


    "Should I just watch a clip from one of her chat streams?"


    : Her chat content is completely different from yours.


    : Wise elder!? S§×arch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Who''s that?


    : Your chat streams are all about crab or dungeons.


    : Not many streams talk about dungeons.


    ''I really love dungeons! I wanted to be an explorer, you know.''


    "¡­Are there a lot of people like this?"


    : I think there are.


    : That''s me.


    : I wanted to be one too.


    : Being an explorer ranks second in elementary school boys'' dream jobs.


    : What''s number one?


    : Doctor.


    : The harsh reality.


    Honestly, I''ve always thought that dungeon exploring isn''t a popular career at all. Most people quit after just dipping their toes into the upper floors. Whether it''s a lack of talent or fear for their lives, the reasons vary, but the people who stick with it are pretty unusual.


    ''But I completely lack the talent to use magic, so it''s really funny that I couldn''t even get an explorer''s license and had to give up.''


    "Talent, huh."


    : Oof.


    : I cried.


    : This stream made me tear up.


    : Kind of a downer.


    "Saying ''talent can be overcome with hard work'' might sound a bit arrogant."


    : That''s what people with minimum talent say.


    : Well, those who are considered talented are usually building on top of that with hard work.


    : It''s hard to understand, but geniuses work way harder than average people.


    : But it''s still about talent.


    : Isn''t your magic talent-based too, Kisaragi-kun?


    "Yeah, true. My Shikigami techniques are talent-based magic, so I''m definitely relying on my natural talent."


    No need to sugarcoat it. I have talent, and that''s why I can use Shikigami techniques and became EX. I can''t lie and say that talent doesn''t matter.


    : But you''ve had a lot of close calls, right?


    : Geniuses and average people will never understand each other.


    : It''s a job where lacking talent could get you killed.


    : But you''re sacrificing yourself for the infrastructure, so thanks for that.


    ''But you know, there''s that UNKNOWN everyone''s been talking about lately? Someone like that is really inspiring, you know?''


    "¡­"


    : Oh, is he going to ignore that?


    : That''s a pretty recent stream.


    : This was before Kisaragi-kun started streaming.


    : How do you actually get stronger?


    "I spent every spare moment in dungeons since my first year of high school¡­ because I didn''t have any friends."


    : Oh.


    : Oh.


    : We''re¡­


    : We''re the same.


    : I''m starting to feel a connection here.


    : Are you the type to sit in the corner of the classroom reading?


    "And what''s wrong with reading? Yeah, I''m just an introverted, socially awkward loner."


    : He''s our beacon of hope.


    : Does this mean we can become EX too?


    : I''m starting to feel hopeful.


    : We¡­


    : But he''s better looking than us.


    : So, he''s not really like us.


    : Traitor!


    "Could you not just randomly decide I''m your comrade and then call me a traitor?"


    My looks are pretty average. Not too good, not too bad¡­ at least that''s the one part of my appearance I''m confident about. I''m not as muscular as you''d think.


    : How tall are you?


    : Being an explorer probably keeps you in shape.


    : Yeah, he''s not like us after all.


    : He''s got a beautiful friend like Asagao-chan, so he''s not one of us.


    : Damn.


    : I guess it all comes down to money in the end.


    : Let''s just make him an honorary member of us.


    "I''m around 170¡­ maybe 171 or 172 centimeters."


    : Average.


    : Average.


    : Are you mocking me for being under 170?


    : Oh? I''m 158, I''ll just watch from below.


    : A height inferiority complex parade, lol.


    "I don''t know what to say. I haven''t grown much since I started high school."


    : Hitting 170 in middle school is like being a hero.


    : It''s not that big a deal.


    : You think?


    What was this stream supposed to be about again¡­? I''m still watching Torimomo Sasami''s stream, but it seems like the comment section has lost interest. I appreciate that they''re focusing on me, but since I''m showing a pro''s stream, they should watch that instead.


    In the end, after watching a few more clips and chatting about random things, the stream wrapped up. I didn''t get to do the strategy meeting I initially planned, but I feel like I''ve gotten better at connecting with the viewers, so I think that''s a good sign.


    Even if they''ve given me the ridiculously unflattering title of "Honorary One of Us," if it means I''m getting along with the viewers¡­ well, I guess that''s okay. If I did a stream about introverted, socially awkward experiences, I bet they''d relate.

 Chapter 43 - 43: Hachioji Dungeon

    Having started my activities as a streamer, I just finished my third stream yesterday.


    In the first stream, I collaborated with the famous streamer Asakawa-san to show the lower floors, and in the second, I revealed some of the deep floors that almost no one knows about. For the third stream, I decided to try something completely different, a chat stream which turned out to be surprisingly popular.


    To be honest, I didn''t really care whether my numbers grew or not, but after interacting with viewers as a streamer, I found it more enjoyable than expected... and now I want to engage with more people.


    "And so¡­ I''m thinking of increasing the frequency of my streams."


    "¡­Do whatever you like, I guess?"


    Asakawa-san seems a bit taken aback, maybe even a little exasperated, as she realizes just how into streaming I''ve gotten.


    Though school is on summer break, I still meet with Asakawa-san regularly in cafes like this one since I''m her mentor. That said, this is actually our first meetup since the break started, as it hasn''t even been a week.


    "Recently, you''ve been bouncing between the mid and lower floors for training, right?"


    "You¡­ you sure know a lot."


    "I watch your streams regularly, after all."


    Since I''ve taken on the role of Asakawa-san''s mentor, I make sure to keep an eye on how she''s doing by watching her streams. This is something I''ve learned from my own experience of being left to fend for myself by my grandmother.


    "Are you going to stream today too?"


    "I''m¡­ still deciding."


    "But you said you''d increase the frequency¡­"


    "Well, I have work today."


    Apparently, there''s been a persistent magical anomaly detected since yesterday with no clear source, so I''ve been called in as an EX to investigate. It could take until tomorrow or even longer.


    "I''m heading to the Hachioji Dungeon."


    "Hachioji, huh¡­ I don''t think I''ve ever been there."


    "Really? It''s not that dangerous, so I recommend it."


    "When you recommend something, Tsu¡­"


    Wait, she doesn''t trust me?


    Is she still holding a grudge because I recommended the lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon, saying they weren''t that dangerous?


    "What''s the Hachioji Dungeon like?"


    "It''s a dungeon with no real appeal."


    "¡­Huh?"


    "It''s not particularly dangerous, nor does it produce any valuable resources. It''s perpetually empty, making it a great place to train without being noticed."


    I think it''s a dungeon not worth visiting unless you have a specific job there. There''s really nothing of value there. Even the number of monsters is low, making it a poor source for magic stones. Honestly, it''s just a featureless place. Sorry to anyone who lives in Hachioji, but the Hachioji Dungeon is seriously lacking in value.


    "Still, it''s curious that no one has ever made it to the lowest level."


    "¡­Maybe that''s just because there are so few people."


    "Well, that''s part of it."


    To delve a bit deeper¡­ maybe no one is truly interested in fully exploring the dungeon. The value of magic stones obtained from the mid floors is enough for a comfortable life, so most people don''t bother pushing forward. Even in the deep floors of the Shibuya Dungeon, only EX explorers like me and a few S-rank explorers seriously aim to conquer them.


    Most A-rank explorers are content with the lower and mid floors.


    Dungeons, which once were complete mysteries to humanity, are becoming something familiar. It''s easy to blame capitalism for this, but it''s a rather troubling situation.


    What if¡­ just what if we continue to leave dungeons unconquered? What will happen to the monsters that continue to accumulate in the deep floors? If the theory that deep-floor monsters become stronger by preying on each other holds true¡­ what if one of these endlessly powerful monsters emerges on the surface? Can we really guarantee that won''t happen?


    "Ugh¡­ it''s depressing."


    "Wh-what''s wrong all of a sudden?"


    "It''s nothing."


    This has nothing to do with Asakawa-san right now.


    Despite all my criticism, the Hachioji Dungeon is actually one of the dungeons I''d recommend for beginners.


    "So, what floor are you dealing with?"


    "They say it''s in the mid floors, but the exact location is unclear."


    "Okay. Let me know if you find out more¡­ I''ll be holed up there for about three days, even if nothing happens."


    "Th-three days!?"


    The number of people entering the dungeon is low, and the number of monsters appearing is about half that of the Shibuya Dungeon. Their strength is also questionable, making it hard to even call it the mid floors. The environment is simple, with well-paved roads and few obstacles blocking the view. Looking at it, I sometimes think dungeons might just be supernatural beings'' way of killing time.


    "Kochin."


    I spread out the sleeping bag I brought and lie down on the floor of the 30th level, the midpoint of the mid floors.


    The Shikigami I summoned is Kochin, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. It''s a transparent snake with a body of magic power, possessing no physical form. Kochin is a special snake responsible for guarding the capital, but the Kochin I summon from the Twelve Heavenly Generals is a particularly powerful Shikigami specializing in barrier techniques.


    As long as Kochin is summoned, no monsters can approach the area near where I''m lying down in my sleeping bag. While Kochin has no offensive abilities, its barrier techniques are so powerful that they more than make up for it.


    The ongoing magical anomaly in the Hachioji Dungeon isn''t something new. When magical anomalies occur, something unusual usually happens, but the timing is never clear. That''s why I end up having to spend a lot of time like this.


    The magical anomaly detected in the Hachioji Dungeon this time was measured at -7. When the magical anomaly''s value increases, it usually indicates the appearance of monsters stronger than those appropriate for the level. However, when the value decreases, it typically means¡­ a mass outbreak of monsters.


    While this is still a hypothesis, it''s generally believed that magic circulates within the dungeon, condensing into magic stones that serve as the core for monsters. According to this theory, a higher magic value would produce stronger monsters, while a lower magic value would result in a greater number of monsters. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    There''s also speculation that the circulating magic is absorbed from dead monsters or from the magic released by people who enter the dungeon, but this isn''t certain. If the previous theory is correct, though, then collecting magic stones would gradually reduce the dungeon''s magic power.


    "¡­Hmm?"


    While lost in thought, I noticed that within just a few hours, a considerable number of monsters had gathered outside the barrier created by Kochin. While this is a common sight in the Shibuya Dungeon, it''s rare in the Hachioji Dungeon. The fact that there are so many monsters here must mean this really is a magical anomaly.


    Just as I was thinking that, my phone rang.


    ''The dungeon''s magic level is rapidly decreasing!''


    "¡­It''s about to start, isn''t it?"


    ''Please be careful!''


    If the magic level is dropping, it means a large number of monsters have been spawned somewhere. Even if there are a hundred or five hundred monsters in the mid floors of the Hachioji Dungeon, it doesn''t make much difference to me.


    "Raiju."


    I''ll crush them with overwhelming speed.

 Chapter 44 - 44: Collab With a Vtuber?

    When a mass outbreak of monsters occurs, the first to be noticed are always the fastest ones. If all the monsters were born in the same place at the same time, it''s only natural that the fastest ones would arrive first. Not that it makes much difference, though.


    Apparently, the Association''s prediction was right on target. The mass outbreak this time seems to have happened in the lower section of the middle floors. In other words, the monsters will conveniently stop right where I''m lying down, fiddling with my smartphone on the 30th floor. If it had been on the 25th floor instead, I''d be running all over the place.


    That would''ve been a huge hassle, so I hope the Association improves its accuracy or increases its personnel.


    The first monsters to charge up the stairs were several types of dog-like creatures. As expected, regardless of size, dog-type monsters are always fast. Just to be safe, I summoned "Hashihime" to block the stairs leading to the 29th floor, and I''ll take care of all the monsters on the 30th floor. Not that any of the monsters will escape in this perfectly flat area of the Hachioji Dungeon.


    "Komainu."


    Raij¨± had already rushed forward, swiftly annihilating the oncoming monsters, but with more coming from behind, it wouldn''t have enough hands¡ªwell, paws¡ªto handle them all.


    I summoned Komainu, a pair of guardian beasts often seen at shrines and temples. The Komainu I summon, however, are not the cute, small statues seen at shrines, but rather massive beasts the size of tigers.


    "I''ll leave the ones Raij¨± misses to you."


    With that simple command, the pair of Komainu moved in perfect sync, ready to act.


    That reminds me¡ªsome time ago, I was browsing a forum where people were talking about me, and someone suggested that if I summoned enough monsters, I could create a literal "Night Parade of One Hundred Demons." Normally, I don''t summon that many because there aren''t enough monsters to warrant it.


    If I encounter an enemy that my usual two or three familiars can''t handle, I''ll just summon one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. But still... that idea stuck with me.


    "Onmoraki. Nue."


    With this, I''d summoned Hashihime, Raij¨±, Komainu, Onmoraki, and Nue. Quite a number of them, yet I still had plenty of magic power left. I had Onmoraki handle any flying monsters, while Nue didn''t need specific orders¡ªjust like Raij¨±, it would act as a sort of free-roaming attacker.


    No matter how weak the monsters are, a mass outbreak can overwhelm an explorer if they don''t have enough resources. But for someone like me, who can endlessly summon reinforcements, completing the Association''s request is a breeze. Basically, I just leave everything to my shikigami, and there''s nothing for me to do... which means I''m bored.


    Since I''m bored, I might as well watch something on my phone. As I''m still learning about being a streamer, all my free time has been dedicated to watching other streams.


    "Hmm... is this Tori Momo Sasami? Streaming live this late at night... I guess she does this full-time."


    Well, for a popular streamer belonging to a big agency like her, it makes sense that this would be her full-time job. Either way, since I''ve got nothing else to do, I''ll watch for a bit.


    By the way, I had thought about streaming this magic anomaly event, but I figured a stream of my shikigami simply wiping out monsters on the middle floors wouldn''t be entertaining at all. Maybe I''ll just take a picture and post it on social media instead.


    "Tonight''s a late-night chat stream... Good work today, everyone."


    : Momo-niku''s here!


    : I''m craving fried chicken now.


    : Don''t eat fried chicken this late at night.


    : You''ll gain weight.


    : So watching Momo-niku streams late at night makes you gain weight.


    : Q.E.D... we''ve proven it.


    "Please don''t gain weight from watching my stream!"


    This kind of casual distance between the streamer and audience seems to work well.


    As expected from a popular streamer, there''s a lot to learn. I should take a page from her book and find a way to get more people interested... and expose them to the hellish reality of the deep floors.


    "So, what should we talk about tonight?"


    : Talk about Kisaragi-kun.


    : That game you mentioned.


    : Did you go to the new game launch event?


    : Say something about the deep floors of the dungeon.


    : Is it too late to aim for becoming a dungeon explorer?


    : Kisaragi-kun was watching your clips the other day.


    : Let''s talk dungeons.


    "You all really love dungeons, huh? Wait, what!? Kisaragi-kun was watching my clips!?"


    : Yeah, for real.


    : He watched them after eating crab.


    : He was having a crab hotpot.


    : Right after the crab hotpot stream.


    : He was mostly just chatting while watching, though.


    "I saw the crab hotpot clips on social media... but I didn''t know he watched my clips after that. It feels kind of nice, like being noticed by a celebrity, doesn''t it?"


    Noticed by a celebrity?


    Is "being noticed" a phrase used for anyone other than children?


    : Kisaragi''s streams feel pretty close and personal, like he knows us.


    : Well, he is a newbie streamer.


    : When he heard your name, he said it sounded delicious¡ªlike food.


    "I won''t deny it. When my manager first told me, ''Your character is Tori Momo Sasami,'' I thought the same thing¡ªmake up your mind, am I chicken thighs or tenderloins?"


    : Relatable. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Decide already!


    : Is chicken thigh from bird-people delicious?


    : Probably.


    : Definitely delicious.


    : Kisaragi said that anyone could become an explorer if they''re willing to nearly die over and over.


    "Don''t do that¡ªyou''ll literally die. Okay, tonight''s chat theme will be dungeon-related, especially about streaming dungeons."


    : Has to be Asagao-chan.


    : Asagao, hands down.


    : Kisaragi gets more viewers, though.


    : A lot of international fans.


    : He''s got a huge overseas fanbase.


    "Asagao-chan is cute, strong, and young... she''s dazzling, right? Kisaragi-kun''s global popularity is impressive... well, no one else streams from the deep floors, so it''s no wonder."


    She knows more about dungeons than I thought. From her earlier stream clips, it seemed like she just admired dungeon explorers, but maybe she''s been doing more research because she hasn''t fully given up on the idea.


    "Still... nobody expected the deep floors to be such hell."


    : Most of the pictures we''ve seen were just dim caves.


    : There aren''t many clear photos of the deep floors.


    : First time seeing the Shibuya Dungeon''s deep floors like that.


    : I''ve seen photos of deep floors in overseas textbooks, though.


    : When the lake suddenly turned into a volcano, that was wild.


    "It wasn''t a laughing matter, but Kisaragi-kun wasn''t exaggerating when he called it hell."


    : Watching it makes me question why anyone would ever attempt it.


    : It''s enough to make me give up.


    : Kisaragi''s strength is on a whole other level.


    : I only knew EX-rank was strong, but now I really get it.


    : There are three others as strong as him? Unreal.


    Seeing people talk about me in real time is kind of embarrassing. I don''t usually look myself up online, but hearing their opinions like this makes me feel awkward.


    "Wouldn''t it be cool to do a chat collab with Kisaragi-kun someday? Even just a voice chat, to ask him all kinds of things?"


    : I think it''d be great.


    : He''s not with a company, so it''s possible.


    : But he''s a guy.


    : Yeah, but still a guy.


    : Do a collab with Kamishiro Rion instead.


    : Honestly, I just want to hear more about the deep floors.


    : Who cares if it''s a guy, we just want dungeon stories.


    They''re saying all sorts of things, but I''d be worried about what people might say if I collabed with a popular corporate-affiliated virtual streamer. Even if they''re not marketed as idols, people still get weird about male-female interactions.


    As for the suggestion to collab with Kamishiro Rion¡ªlet me give you some advice: don''t. That guy is impossible to have a coherent conversation with.

 Chapter 45 - 45: Kisaragi Tsukasa and Kamishiro Rion

    "The whole debate about who UNKNOWN really was, and nobody expected him to be a high schooler, right?"


    : Yeah, totally.


    : Some people speculated, but it got dismissed as impossible.


    : When he first appeared a year ago, there was talk about him being a high schooler.


    : I never thought he''d actually be a teenager.


    : Talent really is a thing, huh?


    : At that age, carrying the weight of a whole nation on his shoulders.


    "Must be tough... although there are EXs like Kamishiro-chan, who just wander around doing whatever they want."


    : That''s just how it is.


    : Free spirit.


    : She doesn''t have the EX mindset, so it can''t be helped.


    : She posted another pic from a baseball game the other day.


    : She really loves baseball, huh?


    Kamishiro Rion... Maybe I should follow her on social media. We''re not exactly strangers, after all. We have a weird friendship, built on beating each other up in battle. She reaches out to me sometimes, so I guess we''re close.


    Still, this is what virtual streamer chats are like. I thought the comment section would be more hyped, like an idol concert, but maybe this is just Tori Momo Sasami''s style. Or maybe all virtual streamers do this? Do the ones selling an idol image even do chat streams?


    "When I watch Kisaragi-kun''s streams, it kind of makes me want to become an explorer again."


    : Same here.


    : He''s so cool.


    : I totally get the admiration.


    : If you''re a guy, aim to be the strongest.


    : Watching him makes me want to be an explorer too.


    : He''s like a hero.


    "So I got curious and checked my magic power level for the first time in a while... and it had actually increased a bit! It really shows how important daily training is."


    : Magic power is like muscle.


    : If you don''t train every day, it won''t change.


    : That''s why explorers get stronger magic over time.


    : Do a training stream!


    : Are you planning to become an explorer?


    "Who knows? Streaming keeps me pretty busy."


    I don''t know how old Tori Momo Sasami is, but it''s impressive that she''s been training consistently enough to see a visible increase in her magic power. The comment section isn''t making a big deal out of it, but if you want to increase your magic power without crazy dungeon training, you''d need to exercise like you''re running a marathon every day.


    That shows just how passionate she is about dungeons.


    Grrr...


    "Huh? Oh, sorry."


    I had gotten so absorbed in the stream that I didn''t notice Raij¨± had come back. Right, I was supposed to be handling the magic anomaly in Hachioji Dungeon. Raij¨±''s returned, but it seems like there are still monsters left. Either there were more than I thought, or it hasn''t been that long. Probably the latter.


    "Guess I should help out a little too."


    I could''ve left everything to my shikigami, but watching the stream and hearing someone admire dungeon explorers made me feel like I needed to step up my game. If these streams can inspire more people to become explorers, that would be great.


    "Good work out there."


    "I''ve cleared everything out. It should be fine now."


    The monster cleanup was quick once I jumped in. The monsters in Hachioji Dungeon aren''t particularly strong, and this was just the middle floors, so there was never any real threat. Now my mind was occupied with thoughts of Tori Momo Sasami''s stream and my own future plans. I should start preparing to launch the company soon.


    School''s on summer break, and once August ends, they''ll probably start talking about future plans in September. Can I just put "CEO" on the form?


    "Tsu-kun! It''s been a while!" Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    ...Why is she here?


    Maybe it''s my fault for being distracted while walking, but I could feel my face tense up when this brown-haired woman suddenly hugged me.


    "I''ve told you to stop calling me Tsu-kun."


    "But Tsu-kun is Tsu-kun, right?"


    She calls me Tsu-kun because of my name, Tsukasa. I might have been guilty of giving others random nicknames too, but being called Tsu-kun feels a bit like being given a nickname I didn''t ask for.


    "Why are you in Japan, Kamishiro Rion?"


    "Eh, I got bored of America!"


    Can I hit her?


    Arguing at the entrance to the Hachioji Dungeon didn''t seem appropriate, so I ended up taking the train with her to Shibuya. But even during the ride, Kamishiro kept up her relentless chatter. She asked if I had a girlfriend, whether it was true I started dungeon streaming, thanked me for following her on social media, and gave unsolicited advice about dating as a high schooler. It was infuriating.


    Now that I''ve gained some recognition, and Kamishiro is way more famous than me, it wasn''t long before people on the train started to notice us.


    "Isn''t that Kamishiro Rion?"


    "Who''s next to her?"


    "That''s Kisaragi Tsukasa! The EX known as UNKNOWN!"


    "Wait, so there are two EXs here!?"


    "No way, that''s insane!"


    "I''m gonna go get an autograph."


    "Me too."


    "I want a handshake."


    "Wow, Tsu-kun, you''re famous now too! You''re okay with autographs and handshakes, right?"


    "I''m not an idol. I''m not doing that."


    "Aw, you''re still so serious."


    "You''re just way too carefree."


    "She''s the lazy older sister, and he''s the responsible younger brother."


    "They totally look like siblings."


    "Yeah, the little brother gets dragged around by the big sister."


    I''m nobody''s little brother. I might be pretending not to hear, but I hear everything. I''d rather die than be the younger brother of this chaotic woman.


    "Hey, is Asakawa-chan your girlfriend?"


    "No, she''s a friend."


    "A friend? Tsu-kun made a friend!"


    "I''ll hit you."


    "I''m just so happy for you... I really am!"


    God, she''s annoying... I''m starting to understand what it feels like to have an obnoxious older sibling.


    "So, anything new lately?"


    "Just tired from the constant understaffing."


    "Same old, huh... I wonder why the Japanese government isn''t doing more."


    "If it were that easy, it wouldn''t be a problem. Besides, it''s not like the government can just ask people to take on a job where they risk their lives."


    "But they had no problem sending people to war to die."


    "Different times."


    Thanks to dungeons, the world hasn''t seen any major wars in the past hundred years, just minor skirmishes here and there. The existence of explorers has probably upset the balance of power between nations, which is why WDAO was created in the first place.


    "If high school Tsu-kun is working this hard, I guess I need to step up as your older sister."


    "Aren''t you still in university?"


    "Huh? I dropped out. Got bored."


    "Can I please hit you? Maybe it''ll fix some of that stupidity?"


    "That''s so mean!"


    The real problem is your brain, not me.

 Chapter 46 - 46: Kamishiro Crashes My Dungeon Stream

    "The day after running into Kamishiro Rion, I was getting ready for a regular stream in Shibuya Dungeon when, for some reason, Kamishiro was waiting for me, eager to jump in."


    "Why are you here?"


    "I wanted to be in Tsu-kun''s stream!"


    "...That''s fine, I guess, but hasn''t the Association said anything to you?"


    "They complain every day."


    "Sigh..."


    Well, of course, they''d have something to say. She''s an EX who suddenly said she was going to study abroad in America and took off. Anyone could''ve guessed that the Association wouldn''t just ignore that. She must have been reprimanded, but apparently, she hasn''t learned her lesson. Probably the only one who could seriously scold her would be my grandma.


    "So, let''s start the stream!"


    As she turned back to smile at me, she blasted away some lower-level monsters with small fireballs. Kamishiro Rion''s magic power is as absurd as ever.


    "Uh... I was planning to just stream some regular deep-floor content today..."


    : Morning!


    : Thanks for streaming so early.


    : Loving the summer morning grind.


    : What do you mean by ''regular''?


    : Streaming deep floors isn''t exactly ''normal.''


    They''re saying all kinds of things, but I''ll just ignore most of it. For me, deep-floor dives are normal, but streaming is still a challenge.


    "So yeah, I was planning to stream regularly, but... well..."


    : Oh? What''s up?


    : Why so hesitant?


    : The introvert side is showing.


    : He''s back to being one of us.


    : One of us.


    : Truly, one of us.


    "So... an unexpected guest is joining today, and, uh... I''m really not a fan of this person."


    "What? Tsu-kun, are you saying you don''t like me?"


    "That''s exactly what I''m saying."


    : What!?


    : Who is it?


    : I don''t see anyone on screen.


    : Who''s Tsu-kun?


    : It''s a girl!


    : Another girl collab?


    : You''re betraying us.


    : We can''t let this stand.


    Before I could introduce her, Kamishiro popped onto the screen, smiling straight at the camera.


    "Hey, everyone! It''s me, dungeon explorer idol Kamishiro Rion!"


    : What!?


    : This stream just became legendary.


    : Two EXs on screen is too much information.


    : This is the real deal.


    : She''s done streams before, right? (I think)


    : She was missing, wasn''t she? Wasn''t she in America?


    "Hmm, how do I check the comments again?"


    "Please just be quiet."


    "Wow, harsh!"


    : LOL


    : LOL


    : I think we get the relationship now.


    : This is too funny.


    : Was his silence during deep-floor streams just to hide how hot his collab partner was?


    : Nah, he was just being lazy.


    : If she can''t even check comments, why is she streaming?


    I''m probably going to catch some flak for this, but the stream is blowing up even more than when I collaborated with Asagao. Despite it being early morning¡ªlikely during work hours for a lot of people¡ªthe viewer count is massive. Well, Kamishiro is famous worldwide, so it makes sense.


    "I can''t believe Tsu-kun has friends, and even his viewers are so friendly... I''m so happy for you!"


    "I don''t remember you raising me."


    If anything, I remember cleaning up after her messes.


    : Are they siblings?


    : LOL


    : This is a mess.


    : Can this stream even keep going like this?


    "Can it keep going? Well, this staircase leads to the 68th floor."


    : Wait, what?


    : You''re already on the deep floors?


    : LOL


    : Just casually strolling to the deep floors. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Don''t play around on the way to the deep floors!


    Hey, I''m not the one messing around here. It''s Kamishiro. She''s always prioritizing her feelings over everything else, acting on impulse without any forethought.


    "So this many viewers show up for a deep-floor stream, huh? I had no idea."


    "You''ve streamed deep floors before, haven''t you? Oh, never mind."


    "Huh? Why?"


    : Fair enough.


    : She didn''t even interact with comments back then.


    : Yeah, it was a one-off stream that ended in silence.


    : We never even knew what floor she got to.


    "What floor was that again?"


    "You''re so sloppy."


    "You already know, don''t you?"


    "I do, but still."


    That''s not the point. Just because you know something doesn''t mean you should be this sloppy about it.


    : What even is this place?


    : A desert, obviously.


    : What?


    : Descended the stairs, and it''s a desert now.


    : LOL


    : Makes no sense.


    "Uh... this is the 68th floor."


    "It''s always so hot here..."


    "I''m planning to go up to the 75th floor today."


    "Why such a specific number?"


    "Apparently, it''s the official highest floor reached."


    "But I made it to the 80th floor last year."


    : What!?


    : Stop casually surpassing official records.


    : EXs should report how far they go.


    : There''s no way to verify without proof, so these self-reports mean nothing.


    : Isn''t that why he''s streaming?


    "I don''t care about breaking records, but it''s been years since anyone''s pushed past the 75th floor, so I figured I should."


    "Huh, neat."


    : Show some interest!


    : Maybe EXs are why the official records haven''t been updated.


    : True, that tracks.


    : This stream is hilarious in how out of touch it is.


    The 75th-floor record was set years ago by an S-rank party. I was planning on tackling it solo, but Kamishiro just tagged along. Given the massive viewer turnout, though, maybe it''s not such a bad thing she came along.


    "This desert area is pretty long... let''s move quickly."


    "Why not use Kirin?"


    "No way. What''s the point of a live stream if we just zip through the desert on Kirin?"


    That would be just like every other expedition. There''s nothing entertaining about that for viewers.


    "Huh, okay."


    "It''s that lack of awareness that makes you the ''Dungeon Destroyer.''"


    "How is that even related?"


    : Kisaragi''s being even more sarcastic than usual, lol.


    : Must be really bad.


    : He did say she''s a free spirit.


    : She definitely fits the description.


    "Hey, there''s a Sand Fish!"


    "Yep, it''s coming this way."


    Despite the name, Sand Fish refers to schools of fish that swim through the sand. But each fish is as large as a person, making them a serious threat. What''s worse, Sand Fish always move in large groups, ranging from 50 to over 100 at a time.


    "How many are there?"


    "Let''s see... looks like about 150?"


    "Wow..."


    : Don''t just say ''wow'' like it''s nothing.


    : 150 is insane.


    : That''s a nightmare (angry).


    : It''s the deep floors. What do you expect?


    : Desert zones are terrifying.


    : Isn''t this super dangerous?


    "I''ll just wipe them out, then."


    With a smile, Kamishiro started drawing a massive magic circle, not bothering to consider her surroundings. She specializes in advanced, high-powered magic that nobody else can handle, and her spells are incomparable to mine.


    The sand dunes, along with the entire school of Sand Fish, were obliterated in a single, reckless strike, sending a huge cloud of sand into the air. With this level of destruction, I doubt there''s anything left alive.


    : Yeah, she''s an EX after all.


    : It''s just the way things are.


    : Honestly, I''m speechless.


    : So this is what an EX is like.


    : I wanted to believe Kisaragi was the weird one.


    : But nope.


    : Monsters really do attract monsters.


    : Birds of a feather flock together.


    Judging from the comments, everyone seems to think I''m just as bad as Kamishiro. My magic is way cuter compared to hers, though. They should realize that after seeing this.

 Chapter 47 - 47: Deep Floor Chaos

    "Even though it''s called a dungeon''s deep floors, not every dungeon''s environment changes so frequently. On a global scale, Shibuya Dungeon is quite peculiar, constantly shifting its environments.


    On the other hand, the Greenland Dungeon I mentioned in a previous stream is an example of one where the environment doesn''t change at all, it''s a frozen cave from the top floor all the way down to the deep floors."


    The desert area of Shibuya Dungeon starts at the 68th floor and continues all the way to the 74th floor, just one level below the officially recognized highest floor. There are no obstacles, no artificial structures, just a wide expanse of desert. It''s the kind of place that wears you down simply by walking, and if you''re thinking about the return journey, it''s a pretty unfair dungeon for explorers.


    Well, only for normal explorers.


    "Uh... aren''t you going to say anything?"


    "About... walking in the desert?"


    : Explain this, please.


    : Something clearly isn''t right.


    : Typical EX behavior¡­


    : Do your job.


    : You''re out of touch, Kisaragi.


    : Get it together, man.


    "It''s just a silent desert walk stream. Please enjoy the ambient sounds of the desert and the occasional monster fight."


    : That''s not the issue here.


    : That''s technically correct, but still wrong.


    : No. Just no.


    : What is this guy doing?


    : Is this even a valid stream?


    I don''t get what they''re complaining about. Didn''t everyone say they wanted to see the deep floors? So now I''m walking through the desert, showing it off, while Kamishiro casually blows away any monsters that approach us with magic. What''s the problem?


    Kamishiro and I are walking with umbrellas in the desert, so I don''t really understand why the viewers are making such a fuss.


    : Why is it raining in the desert?


    : Why are you guys holding umbrellas?


    : Are these two serious?


    : They''ve lost it.


    : Our "honorary fellow" doesn''t have any common sense.


    : In a way, they truly are honorary members of our club.


    "Rain? I''m making it rain, obviously."


    I glance back at the silver-haired, dark-eyed beauty walking behind me.


    ''Master, you could''ve explained that earlier.''


    "Was it necessary?"


    The beauty behind me is Tenk¨±, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals, a shikigami with the ability to control the weather. Since the desert is hot, I had her summon rain to keep things cool. I didn''t think it needed an explanation.


    "...It was hot, so I made it rain."


    "Yeah, that''s right."


    : That''s not the point here!


    : It shouldn''t be raining in the first place!


    : The fact that you can just summon rain is the issue!


    : Where did those umbrellas even come from?


    : Casually controlling the weather like it''s no big deal.


    : Typical EX behavior. (N-th time)


    "Is this really something to make a big deal about?"


    "I don''t think so. It was hot, so you made it rain. If it''s raining, the desert''s not so bad."


    : The problem is that you can make it rain!


    : This level of absurdity¡­


    : I give up.


    : It''s impossible for monsters to understand human problems.


    I''m not using some over-the-top advanced magic to summon the rain. I''m just having a shikigami do it for me. Can''t they at least accept that much? I mean, if they start complaining about this, wait until they see the real battles with the deep-floor monsters¡ªthat''s where things really get insane.


    "Huh?"


    "Hm?"


    While tilting my head as I read the comments, Kamishiro''s voice caught my attention. I looked up to see a giant scorpion with a shiny metallic sheen crawling toward us.


    : What the!?


    : Gross.


    : Where did that even come from?


    : Isn''t that thing huge?


    : This is way too dangerous!


    "It must''ve been slowly creeping up on us. This scorpion can reflect light and camouflage itself with its surroundings."


    "Really?"


    "...How do you not know that?"


    "I''ve never really cared."


    Ugh, my head hurts.


    Kamishiro has explored deep floors in countless dungeons, yet she''s completely clueless about the monsters. Her approach has always been to just blow up any monsters she encounters with overwhelming magic¡ªno real strategy, just brute force.


    : Show some interest in the monsters.


    : The fact that it can camouflage at that size is terrifying.


    : Why did it stop camouflaging?


    : That scorpion is scary as hell.


    : It looks massive and tough.


    "Maybe the rain made it stop camouflaging? After all, it never rains in the desert, so..."


    : Don''t say that when you''re the one making it rain!


    : It''s literally raining right now!


    : How about putting the umbrella away before making that point?


    : Zero self-awareness, lol.


    : Classic Kisaragi.


    : We''ve come to understand this.


    : Kisaragi is casually reckless.


    "It''s coming."


    Of course, monsters don''t care about our commentary. Whether we''re checking comments or holding umbrellas, once they spot us, they attack.


    This scorpion... I doubt it''s been officially named, considering how few people have encountered it. While it uses its massive size for brute force attacks, it isn''t venomous, so it''s not particularly dangerous.


    As the scorpion charged toward us, Kamishiro fired a fire-based spell at it, like a flamethrower rather than a beam. But the scorpion kept advancing despite the flames, closing the gap.


    : This is insane.


    : This is wild.


    : The chat is too calm, lol.


    : But there''s no way they''ll lose.


    : True, it''s only the 74th floor.


    "...It looks like its joints are pretty tough."


    "Then maybe you should think a little before attacking¡ª"


    "¡ªMore firepower, then!"


    Without listening to a word I said, Kamishiro unleashed one of her signature high-powered spells without hesitation. The magic instantly froze the desert floor, and the rain we''d summoned turned into hail. I manipulated the wind to send the hail crashing into the scorpion''s body.


    With the ground frozen solid, the scorpion seemed to recognize us as a legitimate threat and stopped charging headlong at us. Instead, it maintained a cautious distance, sizing us up.


    "Can you handle it?"


    "You''re just leaving it to me?"


    "Well, I could do it if you want."


    : Do they not feel threatened at all?


    : Ugh, this is frustrating.


    : They''re too relaxed.


    : Isn''t this scorpion pretty strong?


    "If you compress your magic, you should be able to pierce through it."


    "...Compressed magic."


    Asagao had developed a technique for that, but I wonder if Kamishiro can use it too.


    "It''s something they''ve been researching in America. The idea of compressing magic has been around for a long time, but apparently, there haven''t been many people with the talent to actually do it."


    "Asagao can do it."


    "Really? I''d love to meet her sometime."


    With a smile, Kamishiro began compressing her typically overpowering magic. Normally, her spells are strong enough to cause a dungeon collapse with ease, but now she was shrinking it down to an unbelievable size.


    "This is wind magic."


    Kamishiro-san''s wind magic was released from his hand along with a sound that tore through the air, and the invisible blade easily sliced ??through the scorpion''s metallic shell as if it was butter.


    S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 48 - 48: When Dragons Fly and Rains Fall

    "Even though they''re called dungeon floors, not all dungeons change environments often. Shibuya Dungeon stands out globally for constantly shifting, while something like the Greenland Dungeon stays frozen from top to bottom with no changes.


    The desert area in Shibuya Dungeon starts at the 68th floor and stretches to the 74th. It''s just an endless, open desert with nothing in sight¡ªno structures, no obstacles. The kind of place that saps your stamina just by walking. A nightmare for regular explorers, especially considering the trip back."


    "Uh¡­ aren''t you going to say anything?"


    "About walking through the desert?"


    : Seriously, explain this.


    : Something clearly isn''t right here.


    : This is why EXs are in their own world...


    : Do your job properly.


    : You''ve completely lost touch, Kisaragi.


    : Get a grip, man.


    "This is just a silent desert walk stream. For a while, please enjoy the ambient sounds of the desert and the occasional battle with monsters."


    : No, that''s not what we''re asking for!


    : Technically true but still wrong.


    : Nope. Just nope.


    : What is this guy even doing?


    : How is this a valid stream?


    I don''t get what they''re complaining about. Didn''t everyone say they wanted to see the deep floors? Now that I''m walking through the desert, showing it off while Kamishiro casually blasts monsters with magic, isn''t this exactly what they wanted?


    Kamishiro and I walk through the desert with umbrellas overhead, and I genuinely don''t understand why the viewers are making such a fuss.


    : Why is it raining in the desert?


    : Why are you holding umbrellas?


    : Are these two even serious?


    : Have they completely lost it?


    : "Honorary one of us," yet still lacking common sense.


    : In some twisted way, they really are our honorary members.


    "Rain? I''m making it rain, obviously."


    I glance behind me at the silver-haired, dark-eyed beauty following us.


    ''Master, I think you''re being a bit unclear.''


    "Am I?"


    The beauty behind me is Tenk¨±, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals, a shikigami who controls the weather. Since the desert is hot, I asked her to summon rain to cool things down. I didn''t think it needed much explanation.


    "...It was hot, so I had her make it rain."


    "Yeah, that''s right."


    : That''s not the issue!


    : The fact that you can just summon rain is what''s strange!


    : You guys are casually summoning weather now?


    : Where did you even get those umbrellas?


    : Casually controlling the weather, I see.


    : And this is why EXs are... (n-th time)


    "Is this really something to make a fuss about?"


    "I don''t think so. It was hot, so you made it rain. If it''s raining, the desert''s not so bad."


    : The problem isn''t just the rain!


    : This level of absurdity¡­


    : I give up.


    : Asking these monsters to understand human logic is impossible.


    I''m not using some ridiculously advanced magic to summon the rain, I''m just having a shikigami do it for me. They should just accept that as normal. If they start complaining about this, wait until they see the real battles with the deep-floor monsters, that''s where things get truly insane.


    "Huh?"


    "Hm?"


    While reading the comments and tilting my head, Kamishiro''s voice made me look up. In front of us was a massive scorpion, its metallic body gleaming as it slowly approached.


    : What the!?


    : That''s disgusting.


    : Where did that come from?


    : Isn''t that way too big?


    : That thing is terrifying!


    "It must have been slowly creeping up on us. This scorpion can reflect light to blend in with its surroundings."


    "Really?"


    "...How do you not know this?"


    "I never really cared."


    Sigh... my head hurts.


    This person has explored countless deep floors in various dungeons, yet she''s totally clueless about monsters. She probably just blows everything up with magic as soon as she sees it, without caring about details.


    : Take this seriously!


    : How does something that huge camouflage?


    : Why did it stop camouflaging?


    : This scorpion is terrifying.


    : It looks insanely tough.


    "Maybe it stopped camouflaging because it started raining. After all, it probably didn''t expect rain in a desert, though I''m not entirely sure."


    : You''re the one making it rain, genius!


    : It''s literally raining right now.


    : Take down that umbrella before you start talking about rain.


    : Absolutely no self-awareness, lol.


    : Typical Kisaragi.


    : We''ve come to understand him.


    : Kisaragi is just recklessly casual.


    "It''s coming."


    Naturally, the monster doesn''t care about our commentary. Whether we''re reading comments or holding umbrellas, once it spots us, it attacks.


    This scorpion... it probably hasn''t been officially named yet, given how few people have encountered it. It relies on brute force with its massive body, but it isn''t venomous, so there''s not much to worry about.


    As the scorpion charged, Kamishiro unleashed a fire spell. Instead of a beam, it was more like a flamethrower, but the scorpion pressed on, undeterred, closing the gap between us.


    : That''s amazing.


    : It''s so dangerous, though.


    : The viewers are way too calm, lol.


    : They can''t possibly lose, right?


    : I mean, it''s only the 74th floor.


    "...Its joints seem pretty tough."


    "Then maybe think before attacking¡ª"


    "¡ªMore firepower, got it!"


    Without listening to a word I said, Kamishiro, being herself, unleashed one of her signature high-powered spells. The magic instantly froze the desert floor, and the rain turned into hail. I used wind to direct the hail towards the scorpion, bombarding its body.


    With the ground frozen, the scorpion seemed to recognize us as a legitimate threat. Instead of charging headlong, it stopped and began to assess the situation from a distance.


    "Can you handle this?"


    "You''re just leaving it to me?"


    "Well, I could handle it if you want."


    : Do they not feel any danger at all?


    : Um¡­


    : Where''s the tension?


    : They''re way too relaxed.


    : Is that scorpion really strong, though?


    "If you compress your magic, you can probably pierce through it."


    "...Compressed magic, huh?"


    Asagao had mastered that technique, but I wonder if Kamishiro can do it too.


    "It''s something they''ve been researching in America. Compressing magic has always been thought of, but not many people had the talent to pull it off."


    "Asagao can do it, though."


    "Really? I''d love to meet her."


    With a smile, Kamishiro began compressing her typically overwhelming magic. Normally, her spells are powerful enough to collapse dungeons, but now she was shrinking them down to an incredible degree.


    "This is wind magic."


    The compressed wind magic shot out of her hand with a sound like tearing air. An invisible blade sliced through the scorpion''s metallic exoskeleton with ease.


    "¡­Your magic is just as impressive as always. In terms of sheer power."


    "Why do you sound like there''s something more behind that?"


    "Because there is."


    : I was too stunned to even comment.


    : These EXs aren''t human, are they?


    : Maybe they''re actual gods?


    : My theory is they''re robots developed for dungeon exploration.


    : If they were robots, they wouldn''t be sneaking off to America.


    "That''s rude. To call a stunning beauty like me a robot? Clearly, this audience needs to get outside more often."


    : Forbidden words.


    : Excuse me?


    : Did she just say what I think she did?


    : This means war.


    : You can''t just say that!


    : That crosses a line. Low-rating pressed.


    "Please, don''t say things that are going to get my stream downvoted."


    "Huh? Why?"


    What a carefree person. Telling introverts with social anxiety to "get outside more" is basically the forbidden card. Say that, and all you''ll get is an enraged introvert sobbing into their pillow at night. I doubt someone as naturally extroverted as Kamishiro could ever understand that introverts are delicate creatures.


    : Kisaragi, our hero!


    : The conscience of the EXs.


    : Isn''t the real conscience of the EXs that salaryman?


    : You mean the workaholic.


    : Still, Kisaragi is one of us.


    : Truly, an "honorary one of us."


    : The way he defends introverts is masterful.


    : We see you, Kisaragi.


    "¡­Go outside."


    : Betrayed!


    : Traitor!


    : I''ll downvote this!


    : How could you!


    : Kisaragi''s no longer one of us!


    : We''re stripping you of your "honorary one of us" title.


    I don''t need that disgraceful title, so go ahead and strip it away. While I am an introvert, I''m not a shut-in who never leaves the house, so calling me "honorary one of us" is just insulting.


    "Oh, I can see it now... the stairs leading to the 75th floor."


    : So this is the limit of human exploration.


    : The limit (officially recorded).


    : The limit (but totally a lie).


    : The limit (with questionable claims).


    : Everything''s way too vague.


    : This is hilarious.


    : The viewers are becoming paranoid, lol.


    : Too funny.


    "If the 75th floor is the limit, that means they couldn''t beat ''it,'' right?"


    "Yeah, definitely. That means it''s that thing."


    "There''s no real strategy for beating it, after all."


    : What''s "it" supposed to be?


    : Could you please stop with the vague pronouns?


    : We need details!


    : Classic EXs, speaking in half-finished thoughts.


    : Hurry up already.


    The comment section was getting impatient, but they''ll figure it out once we step inside. There''s no point in explaining something that''ll become obvious soon, and Kamishiro seems to share that sentiment, ignoring the comments as she happily skips down the stairs.


    "Who''s fighting it?"


    "¡­Which one of us would you prefer?"


    : They''re not fighting together?


    : Are they some kind of battle tribe?


    : Is this some 1v1 ritual? These people are savages.


    : EXs are wild.


    : EXs'' reputation keeps taking hits.


    : Asagao is the only one among them who seems normal.


    : Terrifying.


    "Then you should handle it, Kamishiro."


    "If I just jump into the fight, they''ll say I''m a battle freak! But fine, I''ll do it!"


    "You will, right?"


    : She actually is a battle freak.


    : So it''s true.


    : Terrifying.


    : Dungeon explorers really are just savages.


    : Explorers = brutal people confirmed.


    : Asagao was a breath of fresh air (nostalgic sigh).


    Calling explorers brutal or savages is what the more radical anti-dungeon exploration folks rant about on the internet. These are the same people who spread conspiracy theories, honestly. Kids nowadays learn about dungeons in school, so they''re better informed. High schoolers even get detailed history lessons on them. Even middle schoolers know how deeply dungeons impact the economy.


    While I chatted idly with the comments, we eventually reached the 75th floor.


    "We''re here."


    "And it''s already waiting."


    : It''s... very flat.


    : Looks like the Hachioji Dungeon.


    : It''s not paved, but the ground is completely flat.


    : So, the deep floors have areas like this, too?


    : Maybe this is a rest point?


    : Did the rank S party make it here and then turn back for a break?


    The viewers don''t seem to realize it yet, but we''ve already been spotted. The killing intent is practically palpable, and it won''t be long before it shows itself.


    Just as I was thinking that, the ground trembled, raising clouds of dust. A massive dragon with an impressive mustache emerged from the yellow-brown earth and soared into the sky. I have no idea how it flies, but its four sharp-clawed legs paddle through the air as if swimming through the dungeon''s atmosphere.


    "¡­Still as leisurely as ever."


    "Well, I''ll just sit back and watch."


    : Wait, what?


    : You need to explain things! S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Who said this was a rest area!?


    : There''s no safety in the deep floors, is there?


    : Seriously, this is deep floor territory!


    : Humans have no business being here.


    Hmm... now that I think about it, even regular dungeon explorers might not be able to comprehend a giant dragon emerging from the ground and flying around. When you dive into the deep floors, this kind of thing becomes routine. The monsters in the deep floors are leagues beyond what you find in the lower levels¡ªthey''re practically otherworldly.


    People often say there''s a stark difference between the middle and lower floors, but in reality, the gap between the lower and deep floors is on a whole different scale. Monsters on the lower floors are still somewhat biological; you can make sense of their movements. But down here, it''s like dealing with creatures straight out of fantasy.


    "That''s a dragon, isn''t it? Like the ones from Chinese mythology."


    : Yeah, no kidding!


    : You don''t need to be a genius to figure that out!


    : That''s some serious small talk.


    : Introvert energy coming in strong.


    : Classic awkward introvert.


    "¡­It''s a monster that swims through the air using its magic. As some of you might''ve guessed from the way it emerged from the ground, it can also manipulate the earth with magic. It''s a pain to deal with because it attacks from a distance, manipulating the ground under your feet. The best strategy is to hit it with overwhelming firepower from afar."


    : He''s upset and talking fast now.


    : Nerdy, rapid-fire explanation incoming.


    : I still don''t get it.


    : Just go with the flow.


    : This is beyond comprehension.


    : Magic that lets you swim through the air? What?


    I''m not mad, okay? I was just a little irritated and thought I''d mess with the viewers a bit.


    And for those who can''t understand what it means to "swim through the air with magic"...


    "Magic is pretty versatile, so you can do almost anything you set your mind to. Like flying through the air, for example."


    "Wait for meee!"


    : Uh, what?


    : Wait, hold on.


    : What is going on?


    : What!?


    : This makes no sense.


    : I''m lost.


    : Absolutely no way.


    Wait, doesn''t every explorer do this?

 Chapter 49 - 49: Two EXs Tear Through the Deep Floors!

    Flying using magic isn''t common sense.


    I''ve learned that now.


    : He''s really flying, and it''s funny.


    : Actually, it''s not even funny.


    : LOL


    : What?


    : This is scary.


    The viewers seem to be in disbelief, but Kamishiro and the ochre-colored dragon have already started their free-form aerial battle, paying no mind to the comments.


    The dragon, just as it looks, spits fire from its mouth while fending off Kamishiro, who''s chasing it. However, Kamishiro''s superior magic control allows her to fly faster than the dragon.


    "Got you!"


    Kamishiro jumps onto the dragon''s back and conjures an enormous amount of magic, unleashing it without hesitation. Normally, you''d gather magic slowly, building its power, but she bypasses that entire process with raw talent. Isn''t that kind of unfair?


    : GIANT MONSTER BATTLE!


    : I can only let out a dry laugh.


    : Hmm.


    : Which one''s the real monster here?


    : Kamishiro Rion, obviously.


    : A complete beast.


    : She''s supposed to be a college student, but wow.


    : If you still think she''s a normal college girl, you need to see an eye doctor.


    : Go see a psychiatrist instead.


    "Whoa... She''s going all out."


    Even among EXs, Kamishiro is considered a problem child, but her strength is undeniable. No matter where she is, she fights with explosive, flashy magic. On upper and middle floors, this habit of hers often leads to dungeons collapsing, but down here in the deep floors¡ªwhere each level is massive¡ªit''s not an issue at all.


    "Haha! Can''t catch me!"


    The dragon, having survived the first attack, flies further upward in an attempt to escape, while Kamishiro gleefully gives chase. Normally, it''s the monsters that chase humans, but this... This woman is definitely part of some battle-hungry tribe, just as the viewers are saying.


    "Oh no."


    : What happened?


    : Did something go wrong?


    : Hey, are you alright?


    : Did an emergency just happen?


    : If something goes wrong in the deep floors, aren''t we done for?


    The dragon''s escape to the sky, and the fact that it survived even Kamishiro''s massive magic attack, can only mean one thing: she''s going to hit it with something even stronger. And that means... she might end up bringing down the ceiling of the deep floor.


    "Kamishiro-san?"


    "Take this!"


    "''K¨­chin!''"


    Nope, she has no clue what''s going on.


    I quickly summon K¨­chin and set up a barrier around myself. If anything falls from above, I''ll be fine.


    My worries were justified.


    "Yaaah!"


    The super-compressed, high-powered magic Kamishiro unleashed not only vaporized the dragon mid-flight, but it also punched a hole through the 75th floor ceiling, straight into the 74th floor above. And the 74th floor... is the desert zone.


    "Oh."


    : Hey.


    : They''re buried in sand!


    : Did she just destroy the ceiling?


    : This is what EXs do?


    : If this happened on the 1st floor, Shibuya Station would collapse.


    : Don''t even joke about that.


    : They''re dead, right?


    : No way they''re dead.


    Despite being buried under a massive amount of sand, the viewers aren''t worried at all. Honestly, neither am I¡ªthere''s no way someone like Kamishiro would die from something like this. I''ll just leave her be.


    "Well, I guess we cleared the 75th floor easily. What should we do now?"


    : Hmm.


    : If you''ve got two EXs, sure, why not.


    : You might as well stream all the way to the bottom floor, lol.


    : This is going to be a historic moment¡ªthe highest floor cleared live on stream (lol).


    : What a touching finale.


    : You did it, Honorary One of Us.


    : A long and arduous journey has finally come to an end.


    Hey, come on, that''s harsh. From what I''ve researched, dungeon explorers take pride in reaching their highest floor. Although, I''ve never heard of EXs caring about such things. My grandma, for instance, couldn''t care less.


    "Whew... that was heavy!"


    "Oh, she''s back."


    Kamishiro bursts out from under the sand, scattering it everywhere as she emerges. It''s like something straight out of a movie, but since it''s her own doing, I don''t feel anything.


    "Ugh... why did this have to happen?"


    "Maybe because you keep carelessly blasting magic everywhere? You don''t even consider the power of your own spells, do you?"


    "Yup!"


    Don''t answer that so cheerfully.


    : Is this really okay?


    : Should someone with such poor judgment really have EX status?


    : As long as she doesn''t do this in Japanese dungeons, it''s fine.


    : You realize this is Shibuya Dungeon, right?


    : She''s doing this in a Japanese dungeon, so it''s a problem.


    : Power gets you privileges. S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "But seriously, isn''t it tiring to think about all those little details every time you use magic?"


    "No, it''s not tiring. It''s normal."


    "Hey, viewers, you guys just fire off magic without thinking too, right?"


    : Nope, absolutely not.


    : What if you hit someone?


    : I can''t even cast spells with that kind of power.


    : I have no idea what you''re talking about.


    : I''m not an explorer, so I don''t know.


    : I''m not that reckless.


    "...Traitors!"


    "You''re just stating facts."


    Is this woman an idiot?


    How does someone live so carefreely... yet still manage to dive into the deep floors like it''s nothing?


    "Humph! Let''s head down to the 76th floor!"


    "I thought we were done at the 75th floor?"


    "It''d be boring to stop at the highest recorded floor! Since we''ve got two EXs, let''s just see how far we can go!"


    "...At this rate, we might end up reaching the bottom floor."


    : Do it.


    : Conquer the dungeon.


    : Make this a legendary stream.


    : For once, I agree with Kamishiro.


    : Shock the world by clearing Shibuya Dungeon.


    : You can do it, Honorary One of Us.


    : We believe in you, Honorary One of Us.


    "Can you stop trying to make that nickname stick? I really don''t like it."


    "Haha, that''s hilarious!"


    "I''m about to smack you."


    Ugh, she''s so annoying.


    It''s one thing when the viewers say it, but when Kamishiro says it, it irritates me more. Maybe it''s because she''s such a carefree, lighthearted person who doesn''t seem to think before she speaks.


    : Calm down, Kisaragi.


    : Be cool, Kisaragi.


    : If you hit her, she''ll die.


    : She''s an EX too, so she won''t die.


    : If these two monsters fight, the surface might be affected...


    : LOL.


    "Haah... fine. Let''s go as far as we can. I''ve still got plenty of energy left anyway."


    "Great! Let''s make this a ''Conquering New Floors'' stream!"


    "...Well, I guess there''s no competition."


    : If there were competition, I''d be terrified.


    : Yeah, no one else could pull this off.


    : If someone could rival EXs, they''d just become one themselves.


    : This stream is legendary.


    : Every one of his streams is legendary at this point.


    : That''s the EX standard.


    : You''re probably scaring off other dungeon streamers with your antics.


    If people stop dungeon streaming just because I''m streaming the deep floors, then they weren''t that serious to begin with.


    Besides, I''m just doing my own thing. I don''t owe anyone anything.


    Kamishiro, walking ahead of me, likely cares even less about what other people think.

 Chapter 50 - 50: A Slime and Speed Showdown!

    "Which floor are we on now?"


    "...80, I think?"


    : It''s 81.


    : Pay attention.


    : Too careless.


    : What''s with these people?


    : This is terrifying.


    Honestly, after diving this deep, it becomes hard to keep track of what floor you''re on. From floor 76 onward, the strength of the monsters doesn''t change much, and the dungeon turns into this endless, dark cave-like environment.


    The monsters that appear also start getting more grotesque, and there are some truly annoying ones.


    "Another slime, huh?"


    "Sigh..."


    One of the most troublesome creatures is the slime. This gelatinous blob can''t be harmed by slicing, stabbing, or crushing. The only way to deal damage is by striking its core with pure magic. But the real problem? It''s huge. We''re talking a good 10 meters in size, easily blocking the dungeon''s passageways, so ignoring it isn''t an option.


    "Hyaa!"


    "''Kijin.''"


    ''Understood.''


    : Whoa...


    : They''ve been doing this for a while now.


    : Are they seriously going to the bottom floor?


    : It seems possible at this point.


    : I''m exhausted from this endurance stream.


    : How many hours have they been at it?


    : Still going strong, huh?


    "Oh, it exploded and tried to escape!"


    "Chase it."


    ''As you command!''


    After Kamishiro hit it with her magic, the slime seemed to sense imminent death and exploded in all directions to protect its core. But Kijin wasn''t one to let it go. With a burst of magic, the smaller, fleeing slimes were crushed, ending the battle.


    To be honest, we could probably make it to the bottom floor if we kept pushing... but something about that doesn''t sit right with me. I''d rather prepare properly before attempting a full dungeon dive. But, since we''ve come this far, I might as well go a bit deeper.


    "Still... this is getting kind of boring."


    "Please don''t say that."


    "Ehh?"


    This woman really gets bored too easily. I mean, she dropped out of university just because she got bored, after all. It''s like she constantly defies understanding.


    Granted, the dungeon''s environment hasn''t changed in a while, and the monsters haven''t exactly been exciting... but seasoned explorers don''t get bored this easily.


    : Too free-spirited.


    : But her personality matches what we''ve seen on social media, so it checks out.


    : Is this what they call "accurate characterization"?


    : No, that''s probably not it.


    : LOL.


    : Kisaragi, just drag her along and keep going.


    : Maybe it''s time to head back?


    : Either way works for me.


    : If it''s dangerous, you should head back. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It''s not dangerous, really... I''m used to exploring unknown floors, so there''s not much of a sense of urgency."


    : You''re insane too.


    : Always keep a sense of danger, man.


    : Don''t counter crazy with more crazy.


    : What''s with these EX people?


    : Y''all are nuts.


    "They''re talking about you, you know?"


    "Ignore them."


    The viewers'' comments can be ignored¡ªnothing bad comes from that. Honestly, it''s best to just ignore most of what they say and only engage when you''re really bored.


    While bantering with the viewers, we soon discovered the stairs leading to the next floor. If I remember correctly, the 82nd floor is the deepest I''ve ever reached... maybe? I''m not even sure anymore.


    "What''s the final floor, I wonder?"


    "If we''ve come this far, I hope it''s the 100th. That''d be pretty exciting."


    "Right? It''d be like a dream! Anyway, let''s keep going!"


    "Aren''t you the same person who just suggested we head back?"


    : LOL.


    : This free spirit.


    : Stop making decisions on a whim.


    : Is this what deep-floor explorers are like?


    : This is actually terrifying.


    : What do you people even fear at this point?


    : Uh...


    : The viewers are lost.


    : Are all EX people like this? Japan''s top fighters are scary.


    It feels like a bunch of wild misunderstandings are spreading online at light speed. Should I try to set the record straight? ...Nah, forget it. People were already saying whatever they wanted before I even started streaming. No point worrying about it now.


    Kamishiro, of course, couldn''t care less about any of that. She''s already sprinting full-speed down the stairs to the 82nd floor. By the way, she''s using magic-enhanced body strengthening to run at full speed, but I can catch up easily since I''m even faster. The camera, though? It probably won''t keep up, so I''ll have to carry it.


    : This is making me dizzy.


    : Too fast.


    : This isn''t human speed.


    : Ugh.


    : People are passing out in real time.


    : Streaming this kind of speed with your body is insane.


    : This is too much.


    : I can''t even look at the screen.


    : I''m confident I''ll puke if I keep watching.


    "Arrived! The comment section is hilarious¡ªeveryone''s down for the count!"


    "Maybe work on strengthening your inner ear a bit?"


    I don''t plan on moving this fast for stream content very often, but come on, people need to toughen up a bit.


    : Don''t kid around.


    : I can''t even look at my phone in the car without getting sick!


    : I throw up if I just turn around in a car.


    : That was basically the speed of a roller coaster, right?


    : You guys ran faster than some amusement park rides, and you think it''s fine?


    "Ignore it!"


    "Monsters are here."


    ''Leave it to me.''


    Descending the stairs, we encountered a demon-like monster with four arms. Kijin, who had been following behind me, leapt forward and snapped its neck with a single kick.


    : Uh...


    : Too strong, LOL.


    : Do we even need anyone else?


    : This guy is supposedly a support role, right?


    : Kijin can do it all, huh?


    : This guy acts all nerdy, and yet...


    : What''s so special about Kisaragi?


    ''Did I just hear that?''


    : Oh no, you idiot.


    : Uh-oh.


    : You pressed the wrong button.


    ''Master''s greatness surpasses that of the universe itself. His heart is vast and kind, and even when I deliberately mess up, he says it''s fine. He even goes out of his way to tolerate scum like you all.''


    : Who you calling scum?


    : I mean, she''s not wrong.


    : We''re being convicted for stating facts.


    : This is slander.


    : Being accused of factually describing things is a serious crime.


    : You could get executed for that.


    "Kijin, back to your house."


    ''Please, Master! I beg you, anything but that!''


    "Stop clinging to me, geez!"


    She''s incredibly beautiful, but I wish she wouldn''t get so close. I''m starting to feel bad.


    : Hmm... why does the "Honorary One of Us" get all the girls?


    : This is unacceptable.


    : Should we revoke his title?


    : But if we keep him as "one of us," our status rises by association, right?


    : No, it doesn''t.


    : LOL.


    "Haha! Your dynamic with your shikigami is as funny as ever!"


    ''As if you have any room to talk, wanderer. You''re the one causing Master the most stress. Ugh, how irritating.''


    "Huh? This Kijin is still as annoying as ever!"


    ''You''re one to talk.''


    "Isn''t this a case of ''pot calling the kettle black''?"


    : Is this mutual dislike?


    : Stop the catfight.


    : Kisaragi, this is your chance to say, "Don''t fight over me!"


    : In reality, Kamishiro gets punched, and Kijin goes to her "house."


    : LOL.


    Sigh... I don''t think any of my streams have ever gone according to plan. Maybe I should start pre-planning everything in more detail... I found myself staring off into the distance, lost in thought.

 Chapter 51 - 51: Starting a Flame War

    Eventually, after continuing through the dungeon with Kijin and Kamishiro-san wreaking havoc, we made it down to the 85th floor. Even though we''re ten floors below the previous highest reached level, nothing too extraordinary has happened so far. I''m starting to wonder if we should keep going.


    : You probably don''t care, but the internet is absolutely blowing up over this.


    : Knew it.


    : Of course it is.


    : Can''t you see the viewer count?


    : Even foreign comments are rolling in.


    : This is the place for the ultimate event.


    : This stream is the event.


    : The dungeon community is in a complete uproar.


    : The Explorers'' forum is going crazy right now.


    "¡­No monsters around, huh?"


    "Feels kinda boring."


    So apparently, things are going wild on the surface, but down here on the 85th floor, we''re just strolling along. Sure, I''m aware that what we''re doing might be groundbreaking¡ªpotentially pushing for the completion of Shibuya Dungeon¡ªbut as an explorer, I just want to enjoy the exploration. Besides, I doubt Kamishiro-san is thinking about any of this at all.


    : What''s the plan now?


    : The streamer himself doesn''t seem to care, lmao.


    : The disinterest is too real.


    : Translators, keep up the good work.


    : I saw someone say in English, "What''s up with these insane explorers?"


    : True.


    : Pretty much the same in Japanese.


    : Seems right.


    : What exactly are you satisfied with here?


    Calling us "insane explorers" is a bit harsh¡­ But to be fair, I am an officially signed EX-ranked explorer with WDAO. I''m pretty sure the EX explorers in America are just as reckless as we are.


    : He''s actively avoiding the comments, I swear.


    : This guy''s just straight-up ignoring us.


    : Let''s have a Q&A session!


    : Good idea.


    : Yeah, they''re bored. Let''s chat.


    : Even the viewers are losing it now.


    : Always were.


    : Yeah, that''s just how it is.


    "Q&A? Sure, why not."


    At this point, might as well go for it. Bring on the questions.


    : What''s the temperature on the 85th floor?


    : What do you think about Kamishiro Rion?


    : Are you really the strongest?


    : Do you like your Shikigami?


    : How does it feel to be Japan''s top streamer?


    : You''re global, dude.


    : Do you get girls?


    : No way. We''re talking about us here, right?


    : Right, no chance. We''re the us.


    "I''ll ignore the slanderous comments, thank you. Who said I''m part of ''us''?"


    "Haha! It''s true, Tsuu-kun''s position, power, and wealth are worlds apart from you guys."


    "I will hit you."


    : Huh?


    : Is this the one time we agree with Tsuu-kun?


    : Can''t believe it, but I''m angry too.


    : Yeah, that''s too far.


    : Don''t provoke us, pretty girl!


    : Okay, but also insult us more, pls.


    Why does she always casually poke at the viewers like this? Take that back to your own channel. If this earns me a flood of downvotes, how will she make it up to me?


    "Anyway, let''s answer something... The temperature here on the 85th floor is about¡­ 25¡ãC. Pretty comfortable if you''re moving around."


    "I could go for something cooler, but that''s probably asking too much, huh?"


    "It''s a dungeon."


    Still, the consistent climate of this dark, monotonous cave is a blessing. It can get way worse in other dungeons, trust me.


    "As for Kamishiro-san¡­ she''s too much of a free spirit. We don''t really get along. She just wanders around aimlessly, never accepts any requests despite being a Japanese EX, and¡­ yeah, I can''t deal with it."


    "What? That''s harsh! What about, like, personally?"


    "I really don''t like her. She''s pushy, constantly butting in like some nosy aunt. She''s almost the worst."


    "This is cruel!"


    Of course, it is. We met because she picked a fight with me out of nowhere, and I beat her to a pulp. That''s how this all started.


    : This sounds like pure dislike, lol.


    : Wow¡­


    : This is straight-up resentment, huh?


    : Yeah, their personalities seem to clash.


    : Makes sense. Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : I''d feel the same.


    : I''d hate her too.


    : Glad we''re only watching her through a screen.


    "Next¡­ strongest? I don''t think so, but whatever. I like my Shikigami, though. I wouldn''t summon them if I didn''t."


    : And once again, Kijin declares herself the ''main wife.''


    "Ah, Kijin doesn''t count."


    : Betrayed again!


    : Same reaction every time, lmao.


    : Shikigami with personalities is the best part of this.


    : You could honestly just stream the Shikigami interacting.


    : A Shikigami-only stream would be fresh.


    "And about getting girls... Frankly speaking, it''s not really about whether I get girls or not. I barely meet any women, to begin with."


    : Oh.


    : Ah, yeah.


    : Forgot. He''s a loner.


    : The dungeon nerd.


    : Yeah, no girls in a dungeon.


    : Dude, you''re not gonna find a girlfriend in there.


    : Go to a mixer.


    : High schoolers don''t do mixers!


    : Also, no drinking at 18!


    : Did someone say ''mixer''? Lol.


    "No, I''m not that desperate... but, honestly, is getting married something I should do?"


    : In this era of low birthrates, absolutely.


    : Fix the declining population, my dude.


    : You''ve got money, man.


    : Marriage isn''t just about money, though.


    : Yeah, women aren''t lining up for cash.


    : The ones who do are only after cash.


    : We are us for a reason.


    That''s harsh... But there''s some truth there. People say if you don''t have any romantic experiences by the time you''re in high school, it gets much harder once you''re an adult. Is that true?


    I feel successful as an explorer, but my life experience is lacking. I bet the viewers are more knowledgeable in this area.


    "¡­But, my viewers are probably shut-ins, so¡­"


    : Ah.


    : He just said it.


    : It''s war now.


    : This is gonna blow up.


    : You''ve committed an unforgivable sin.


    : Fact-checker says: It''s true, though.


    : We''re gonna post this everywhere.


    : Becoming an anti-fan now.


    : Starting a flame war.


    Sure, I know I shouldn''t have said it, but it''s still true. And I''m the type to stir things up a little. Let''s be honest¡ªI''m not here to be some polite streamer. It''s part of the fun.


    Anyway, let''s stop at the 86th floor. I don''t want to go all the way to the bottom with Kamishiro-san pushing us, without proper preparations.

 Chapter 52 - 52: Summoning the Sea God!

    "Finally... we''ve arrived at the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon."


    "¡­It''s so bright."


    After trudging through a dark cave for so long, I started thinking the whole dungeon would be caves all the way to the bottom. But suddenly, we stepped out onto a beach that looks like the perfect spot for extroverts to hang out. I don''t remember getting this far before, so it feels like we''ve really pushed past the previous highest reached floor.


    A blue ocean, white sandy beach¡­ the bright, beaming sun (or rather, glowing magic stones), and a place that just screams that no introvert would ever come near it. I''m definitely not an extrovert, so this bright summer beach-like place is not my vibe at all.


    "Hmm... doesn''t it look like a popular tourist spot?"


    "Yes, it does. I''ve seen the term ''crystal-clear emerald sea'' before, but this is my first time actually seeing it."


    : Is this paradise?


    : Did we just die and go to heaven?


    : Hell looped around and became heaven?


    : Even if it looped around, that''s still the afterlife.


    : No doubt.


    : Let''s go swimming!


    : Let''s make this a tourist spot for Japan!


    : (It''s the 86th floor of a dungeon¡­)


    : Yeah, we knew that.


    Even with this stunning view that could rival any domestic vacation spot, it''s still the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon. Proof of that lies in the massive creature approaching from beyond the horizon.


    "What''s that?"


    "Isn''t that a slime?"


    "But... we''re at the ocean."


    : It''s gotta be the ocean.


    : The ocean is the enemy now?


    : What the¡­?


    : I don''t get it.


    Yeah, I don''t get it either. Why do I have to look out at this beautiful ocean only to see what is essentially a sea monster the size of a small building? It''s like a slime, but as big as a sea giant, and it''s heading straight for us.


    : Summon a sea monster of your own!


    : Do it!


    : Sea monster showdown!


    : Go for it!


    : The viewers are hyped, lol.


    : Show us EX power!


    "Haa¡­"


    "Can''t you just take it out in one shot?"


    "Are you really going for it?"


    "Watch me!"


    Kamishiro-san is reckless but not overconfident. If she''s charging in, it means she believes she can do it. So, I''ll focus on doing what I can. After all, even I have never seen a monster of that size before.


    "Kijin."


    ''Yes, I already know what you need, Master.''


    "Then, take control."


    ''Leave it to me.''


    The Shikigami I summon are mostly based on traditional folklore or stories that I imagine, creating them from scratch. They exist through my interpretation, and when summoned, they come to life as new beings. In essence, if I imagine it in great detail, I could even create a character from a video game.


    It''s an extremely versatile magic, but it comes with some limitations. I can''t create something greater than myself, and the Shikigami will only act in ways I can imagine them acting. However, that only applies to regular Shikigami.


    "Purify and cleanse, protect under divine will, bless with abundant fortune."


    Reciting a brief prayer isn''t really necessary, but as someone who believes in the existence of gods, it feels wrong not to. The regular Shikigami are bound by my imagination, but the Twelve Heavenly Generals are different. They are divine vessels I create through Shikigami techniques, allowing the spirits of gods to descend into them.


    So, when Kijin refers to me as her ''master,'' it''s because the entity within her decides to do so, not because of my will. That''s why the Twelve Heavenly Generals aren''t truly my Shikigami. It''s more like a summoning technique that brings down divine spirits.


    In short, what I''m trying to say is¡­ Shikigami techniques can be pushed to summon pretty insane things if you know what you''re doing.


    "Owatatsumi-no-Kami." S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I imagined the grand embodiment of the sea itself. A being that sometimes heals life with the nurturing sea and sometimes mercilessly sweeps everything away, a mixture of love and fear. And then, I summon something into it, much like the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    This is the first time I''ve ever summoned a real god. I feel a significant amount of my magical energy being drained, but with Kijin''s help controlling the flow, I manage to keep it from spiraling out of control.


    "Take that!"


    : Wait, Kamishiro''s magic looks like a pea shooter now.


    : Pea shooter (piercing attack).


    : A pea shooter doesn''t cut through a 30-meter tidal wave, guys.


    : Let''s not nitpick.


    : Is it even working?


    : I can''t tell.


    : No idea what''s happening.


    Kamishiro-san''s compressed magic is powerful, but the opponent is too big to know if it''s having any effect. Like normal slimes, this one probably has a core somewhere, and hitting anything else won''t matter much.


    Well, if we can''t see the core, we''ll just keep hitting it until we find it.


    "Ugh!"


    : Uh, what?


    : What''s Tsuu-kun doing?


    : Wait¡­ did he just summon a sea god?


    : I heard him mutter Owatatsumi earlier¡­


    : Did he summon a god?


    : Is this real?


    : Huh?


    ''Master, this won''t hold for long!''


    "I know¡­ it''s my first time."


    ''Does that really matter!?''


    Of course it does. I remember the first time I summoned one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals¡ªKijin, to be specific¡ªand I only managed to maintain it for a few seconds before all my magical energy was drained. The same applies here. Summoning Owatatsumi-no-Kami will take a lot of practice before I can control it properly.


    "This is a primordial god¡­ It''s tougher than the first time with the Heavenly Generals, so brace yourself."


    ''Understood! For you, Master, I will endure until the end!''


    : ¡­


    : You just summoned something way worse than the sea monster.


    : I''m speechless.


    : The chat just went dead silent, lol.


    : First, a 30-meter sea monster shows up, and the EX attacks aren''t doing anything, but then the other EX summons a literal sea god bigger than the monster?


    : I don''t even¡­ what?


    : Is this the deep levels of the dungeon?


    This is the first time I''ve ever gone this far too!


    The summoned Owatatsumi-no-Kami isn''t resisting my control, thankfully. Maybe it''s because of the prayer? It seems willing to follow my will until the enemy is defeated. That said, being a god of the sea, it''s better to request than command.


    "This ends now!"


    You don''t need to speak commands aloud to control a Shikigami. As long as I focus on the target in my mind and wish for it, the sea god will move.


    The slime, sensing our presence, begins to swell up, preparing to launch a massive water attack. But with a simple gesture of its left hand, Owatatsumi-no-Kami makes the creature swell and then explode.


    : Wait, it''s over?


    : Did¡­ did it just end?


    : Oh god.


    : Gods are terrifying.


    : EX explorers can summon gods?


    : Does this mean they can destroy the world?


    : Yep, probably.


    : Humanity''s fate is in their hands.


    That''s harsh. Owatatsumi-no-Kami just moved one hand, and I lost a significant amount of magical energy to make that happen. I''m no superhuman. And anyway, I''m not going any further!


    We''re heading back now!


    Stream''s over!

 Chapter 53 - 53: Thread 5: Beyond Human Limits

    37: Anonymous Explorer


    The thread''s moving way too fast!


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    It can''t be helped.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ve burned through like 20 threads just for this morning''s stream, right?


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    Reason for ending the exploration: "Just kind of got tired."


    Record: 86th floor.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait¡­ seriously?


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank explorers can do anything, huh?


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s what we learned this time:


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion is a beautiful but disappointing person.


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion and Kisaragi-kun are like a messy older sister and her long-suffering younger brother.


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun can make it rain whenever he feels like it.


    ¨C Magic compression is being researched in America.


    ¨C The boss of the 75th floor is some kind of weird dragon.


    ¨C Explorers can fly (??????)


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun can summon gods (?????????)


    ¨C The 86th floor is a beach.


    44: Anonymous Explorer sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    £¾£¾43


    Too much information!


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    It doesn''t make any sense.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    Even watching the stream left me confused.


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾43


    ¨C Explorers can fly (??????)


    ?????????


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    No, they can''t.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    But Kamishiro Rion was flying!


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t try to apply logic to EX-ranks. That''s the takeaway from this thread.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    True.


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s happening¡­?


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    I was at work and missed the stream, but I can tell it was chaotic.


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    Trust me, even if you watched it, it still didn''t make sense.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s what viewers learned today:


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun is amazing.


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion is amazing.


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, that''s pretty accurate.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    ¨C Kamishiro Rion is an idiot.


    ¨C Kisaragi-kun is a little odd.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    You''d know Kamishiro Rion is an idiot if you''ve followed her on social media.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    Is she really that bad?


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    She mostly just posts pictures, though.


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    So many brain-breaking moments today.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t Asagao-chan just too good for him?


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    No one in the country is on Asagao''s level except for three other people.


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    So, EX Reiman isn''t as ridiculous as I thought?


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    Even Jinguji Kaede managed to solo the Takayama Dungeon to the bottom.


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-ranks are just built differently¡­


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, really?


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t she part of a party? I''m confused.


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede is known as the fastest explorer, right?


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    But how accurate is that claim?


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m gonna suggest on social media that they collab with Jinguji Kaede next!


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, I want to see all the EX explorers.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    The dungeon world is in chaos after today''s stream.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    No surprise there.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    I expected as much.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    Dungeon researchers on social media are losing their minds.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, it is the deep floors.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s no wonder people are freaking out after so much new information was revealed at once.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Image


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    Lol.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    Stop laughing at them.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    Poor guy¡­


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t see the image right now, bad connection. Can someone explain?


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    That''s just sad.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾83


    The official Explorer Association account posted an update about the new record set in the Shibuya Dungeon, then immediately followed up with a sigh.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-ranks, man¡­


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe we shouldn''t let EX-ranks meet each other.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    We need to keep them separated and under control.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    Can we even control monsters like that?


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    They can fly, remember?


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾90


    Just thinking about it makes me laugh.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    This whole situation is a mess.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    Everything is just chaos now.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    The Dungeon boards, the Kamishiro Rion fan forums, the researchers, the Explorer Association, and the dungeon streaming community¡­


    They''re all losing their minds.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    What have you done, Kisaragi-kun?


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    This is basically a coup.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s practically an overthrow of the government.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    We might get an official press conference from the government at this rate.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    The Dungeon Ministry is definitely going to hold a press conference.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s been years since we had a new record for the highest floor reached¡­ And the exploration ended because "he got tired."


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    I feel like I''m losing my mind.


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s always been insane, so don''t worry.


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    How can anyone be calm after this?


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    The archived stream is blowing up with views.


    105: Anonymous Explorer


    What are we even supposed to do now?


    106: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s Kisaragi-kun''s next stream going to be like?


    107: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no point in predicting it.


    108: Anonymous Explorer


    He could probably get a million views just by rolling a pencil.


    109: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s always a mess, and yet I can''t stop watching.


    110: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun just became my favorite streamer.


    111: Anonymous Explorer


    Does he have a lot of female fans?


    112: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe not?


    113: Anonymous Explorer


    I bet he''s got a lot of female explorer fans, though.


    114: Anonymous Explorer


    Definitely.


    115: Anonymous Explorer


    Most of his viewers are probably explorers in general.


    116: Anonymous Explorer


    His audience seems pretty young.


    117: Anonymous Explorer


    The government should treat Kisaragi-kun with more care.


    118: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s already an anti-thread about Kisaragi-kun.


    [Explorer]UNKNOWN Anti-thread[Kisaragi Tsukasa]


    119: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾118


    Lol.


    120: Anonymous Explorer


    Not surprised.


    121: Anonymous Explorer


    Once you get an anti-thread, you know you''ve made it big.


    122: Anonymous Explorer


    His channel just hit a million subs too.


    123: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, seriously?


    124: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s way too fast, lol.


    125: Anonymous Explorer


    Both the anti-thread and the subs count are exploding, huh?


    126: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m dying of laughter.


    127: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s an EX explorer, streaming, and now he''s got a ton of haters.


    128: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread is moving fast with angry comments, lol.


    129: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s full of jealous posts, and it''s hilarious.


    130: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾129


    Don''t call it jealousy or they''ll get mad.


    131: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve seen the hate comments on social media too. He''s been getting a lot of flak lately.


    132: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s because he''s collabing with Asagao-chan and showing off his absurd strength.


    133: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like he''s one of us, but with insane powers, so people are picking on him.


    134: Anonymous Explorer


    If he were more serious, maybe he wouldn''t get so much hate¡­


    135: Anonymous Explorer


    If he were serious, he wouldn''t be streaming at all.


    136: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread people will never beat him, though.


    137: Anonymous Explorer


    Jealousy is real, huh?


    138: Anonymous Explorer


    All the wrong types of people are gathering in that anti-thread, lol.


    139: Anonymous Explorer


    So much happened in just one day.


    140: Anonymous Explorer


    ¨C 20 threads burned through in a few hours.


    ¨C His stream hit #1 trending worldwide.


    ¨C An anti-thread got created.


    ¨C Jealous trolls invaded.


    ¨C Social media is blowing up with replies.


    141: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾140


    This plus the list from earlier¡­ It''s all insane.


    142: Anonymous Explorer


    This is just too much, lol.


    143: Anonymous Explorer


    I bet we''ll start seeing a ton of "deep floor analysis" videos soon based on Kisaragi-kun''s stream.


    144: Anonymous Explorer


    Fake analysis videos are always fun.


    145: Anonymous Explorer


    I love those deep-dive videos.


    146: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you think Kisaragi-kun will respond to the anti-thread?


    147: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s too busy for that, I bet.


    148: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-threaders are just playing by themselves.


    149: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t that always the case?


    150: Anonymous Explorer


    Ah..


    151: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾149


    True that.


    152: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    153: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably too busy to care about his haters.


    154: Anonymous Explorer


    Do you think he''ll add a donation feature?


    155: Anonymous Explorer


    There aren''t even any ads on his streams.


    156: Anonymous Explorer


    He should at least enable ads, right?


    157: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably already swimming in money, though.


    158: Anonymous Explorer


    So jealous.


    159: Anonymous Explorer


    By the way, his next stream is apparently going to be a "Dungeon Basics" class.


    Image


    160: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾159


    Wait, seriously¡­ you''re doing this now?


    161: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s probably a contract stream for the Association, lol.


    162: Anonymous Explorer


    What even are "dungeon basics"?


    163: Anonymous Explorer


    "Almost dying makes you stronger," or something?


    164: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾163


    Stop with the fake "basics," lol.


    165: Anonymous Explorer


    "Use magic, and your enemies will die."


    166: Anonymous Explorer


    "Don''t rely too much on your Shikigami."


    167: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t sound useful at all, lol.


    168: Anonymous Explorer


    Why is everything so weird in this thread?


    169: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s his fault, honestly.


    170: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾168


    Hasn''t it always been like this?


    171: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, pretty much.


    172: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m going to start checking out the anti-thread as a new hobby, lol.


    173: Anonymous Explorer


    Sounds fun.


    174: Anonymous Explorer


    Both Kisaragi-kun and the people in this thread are having a blast.


    175: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s having such a huge impact on society as an EX-ranked explorer.


    176: Anonymous Explorer


    Amazing (in the simplest terms).


    177: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s completely changed the way people view dungeon streams.


    178: Anonymous Explorer


    EX-rank is just on a whole other level, huh (brain malfunctioning).


    179: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe upper-floor streams will become more popular now that people are over the deep floors¡­ Nah, probably not.


    180: Anonymous Explorer


    No chance.


    181: Anonymous Explorer


    Upper-floor streamers should switch to gaming streams instead.


    182: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾181


    Someone already quit dungeon streaming because of him, so don''t rub it in.


    183: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, really? Lol.


    184: Anonymous Explorer


    How many dungeon streamers has Kisaragi-kun indirectly forced to retire?


    185: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s probably crushed the spirits of a lot of explorers too.


    186: Anonymous Explorer


    And he''s just out here streaming with the best of intentions!


    187: Anonymous Explorer


    Monsters like him just don''t understand how humans think, huh?


    188: Anonymous Explorer


    Ugh¡­


    189: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾312: Anonymous Explorer


    "When you gaze long into an abyss, the abyss also gazes into you."


    190: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾189


    Lol.


    191: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t deny it anymore. He really is a monster.


    192: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾189


    We all thought Kisaragi-kun was human back then¡­


    193: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾189


    Ah, the days when we still believed Kisaragi-kun was just a regular human.


    194: Anonymous Explorer


    Well¡­ looks like he''s graduated from being human, lol.


    195: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to want to be an explorer, but I don''t want to stop being human!


    196: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t worry, it''s not that easy to quit being human.


    197: Anonymous Explorer


    Only EX-ranked people stop being human.


    198: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Reiman is suddenly the victim of baseless accusations, lol.


    199: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really baseless, though?


    200: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, I''m starting to believe EX Reiman is also an EX-rank in the truest sense.


    201: Anonymous Explorer


    I won''t believe it until I see it with my own eyes.


    202: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to think EX Reiman was just a corporate drone.


    203: Anonymous Explorer


    Jinguji Kaede and Kamishiro Rion are both monsters, so it''s no use.


    204: Anonymous Explorer


    Is there any way they aren''t monsters?


    205: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re definitely scary people.


    206: Anonymous Explorer


    I fully expect EX Reiman to be just as insane!


    207: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, it''d be scarier if they were normal.


    208: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re EX-ranks. Of course they''re not normal.


    209: Anonymous Explorer


    A few weeks ago, I would''ve denied this, but after seeing Kamishiro Rion and Kisaragi-kun¡­ Yeah, it''s obvious now.


    210: Anonymous Explorer


    I thought they were just slightly above human, but they''re full-blown monsters now. Their only human trait is their appearance.


    211: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾210


    That''s brutal, lol.

 Chapter 54 - 54: Thread 6: The High-Stakes World of Dungeon Streamers and Taxesxes

    560: Anonymous Explorer


    What a crazy day it''s been.


    561: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, it''s just unfair.


    562: Anonymous Explorer


    So it''s true that EX-rank explorers are just unfair by nature.


    563: Anonymous Explorer


    No one could''ve predicted it would be this bad.


    564: Anonymous Explorer


    Really? (I don''t fully understand what happened.)


    565: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾564


    EX-rank explorers Kamishiro Rion and Kisaragi Tsukasa (UNKNOWN) just casually streamed themselves clearing past the 75th floor, which was the highest reached floor in Shibuya Dungeon, and made it all the way to the 86th floor.


    They ended the stream because, apparently, they were "just kind of tired."


    566: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾565


    That''s just pure unfairness wrapped in a package.


    567: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, other explorers are risking their lives out there¡­


    568: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, I was underestimating the EX-ranks.


    569: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d lose all my confidence watching that.


    570: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾569


    Just compare yourself to other humans, not monsters. Don''t compete with them.


    571: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, even the magic stones from the upper floors are contributing to infrastructure, so don''t feel too bad.


    572: Anonymous Explorer


    But deep-floor magic stones are way more efficient, so who even needs those upper-floor scraps?


    573: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾572


    Then you go and explore the deep floors yourself.


    574: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾572


    Go on, you try it.


    575: Anonymous Explorer


    Another dungeon newbie who''s never been inside, huh?


    576: Anonymous Explorer


    Dungeon newbies are around all year long.


    577: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just the downside of dungeon streaming being so popular now.


    578: Anonymous Explorer


    But, apparently, more young people are aspiring to be explorers because of dungeon streams.


    579: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably a plus for the country overall.


    580: Anonymous Explorer


    We always get guys like 572 popping up on these boards, though.


    581: Anonymous Explorer


    They''ve been here since the start.


    582: Anonymous Explorer


    Whether it''s dungeon-related or not, trash will always show up.


    583: Anonymous Explorer


    Today''s profits:


    Solo:


    £«20,000


    £­12,000


    Image


    I went to the mid-levels of Shibuya Dungeon, so I made some decent money, but I got injured and had to spend on treatment.


    584: Anonymous Explorer


    Explorers in general are full of dungeon newbies.


    585: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾583


    Nice. You still made a solid profit.


    586: Anonymous Explorer


    Even with some injuries, making +8,000 in a day makes me think pushing into the mid-levels is worth it.


    587: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, if you can make 15,000 without getting hurt in the upper levels, that''s pretty good too.


    588: Anonymous Explorer


    So if you make +8,000 daily, that''s +240,000 a month? After factoring in the tax on magic stones, how much do you actually take home?


    589: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably around 150k after everything.


    590: Anonymous Explorer


    You still have equipment costs to consider, though.


    591: Anonymous Explorer


    Considering all that, I guess I need to work a bit harder.


    592: Anonymous Explorer


    Here''s my earnings report:


    Solo:


    £«70,000


    £­20,000


    Image


    593: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾592


    That''s a lot!


    594: Anonymous Explorer


    If you''re making +50,000 a day, that''s 1.5 million a month. You''re basically rich.


    595: Anonymous Explorer


    How did you do it?


    596: Anonymous Explorer


    I followed the advice Asagao-chan gave during Kisaragi-kun''s stream and went to the lower levels.


    597: Anonymous Explorer


    Whoa.


    598: Anonymous Explorer


    (Wait, you can just go to the lower levels like that?)


    599: Anonymous Explorer


    Nice.


    600: Anonymous Explorer


    (That''s honestly really impressive.)


    601: Anonymous Explorer


    So the stuff they were saying in the stream was actually helpful?


    602: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾592


    Are you rank C?


    603: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe I should push myself more.


    604: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾602


    Yeah, I just got promoted to C, but I rewatched Kisaragi-kun''s stream to memorize the monster behaviors and traits to watch out for. It helped a lot, though I still nearly died.


    605: Anonymous Explorer


    Rank C? That''s elite.


    606: Anonymous Explorer


    Straight-up impressive.


    607: Anonymous Explorer S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    We need a mid-level exploration guide stream.


    608: Anonymous Explorer


    Give us tips on what to watch out for in the mid-levels.


    609: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun''s popularity is about to skyrocket again.


    610: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m going to subscribe to his channel.


    611: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to be a hater, but I''m a fan now. I need more dungeon info.


    612: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, haters getting won over by money.


    613: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, you need money to survive.


    614: Anonymous Explorer


    I hadn''t gone to the lower levels since almost dying the last time, but after watching that stream, I thought I could do it, so I pushed through. I avoided the super dangerous monsters and just stuck to ones I could handle. Even though I didn''t collect many magic stones, the ones I did get were bought for crazy high prices.


    615: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾614


    Thanks for the info.


    616: Anonymous Explorer


    That much of a difference, huh?


    617: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, the energy efficiency of magic stones from the lower levels is totally different.


    618: Anonymous Explorer


    I think I read something about that in a research paper.


    619: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the Kisaragi-kun craze about to hit?


    620: Anonymous Explorer


    Hasn''t it already?


    621: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s great that EX-rankers are giving out this kind of information.


    622: Anonymous Explorer


    Why don''t the rank S explorers ever come out like this?


    623: Anonymous Explorer


    At the end of the day, it''s all about hoarding resources.


    624: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like hardcore gamers who never share their gear setups. Same idea.


    625: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾624


    That''s such a selfish attitude.


    626: Anonymous Explorer


    Exactly.


    627: Anonymous Explorer


    On the other hand, why does Kisaragi-kun so freely share all this info?


    628: Anonymous Explorer


    Because he doesn''t care.


    629: Anonymous Explorer


    He probably doesn''t see the value in keeping it secret.


    630: Anonymous Explorer


    Rank S explorers are so petty.


    631: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s true.


    632: Anonymous Explorer


    Which is why they never make any real progress.


    633: Anonymous Explorer


    But it''s the same in every country, isn''t it?


    634: Anonymous Explorer


    The more skilled someone is, the less they''re interested in helping others. Kisaragi-kun just transcends all of that.


    635: Anonymous Explorer


    Seriously? I''m unfollowing all the rank S explorers on social media and following Kisaragi-kun instead.


    636: Anonymous Explorer


    He doesn''t post much information on social media, though.


    637: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun''s social media is just a daily life diary.


    638: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d still want to see that.


    639: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, he''s trying to imitate Kamishiro Rion''s style.


    640: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾639


    So he really is like her little brother?


    641: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun is going to do a "Dungeon Basics" class soon, so make sure to watch.


    Image


    642: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, are you one of Kisaragi-kun''s followers?


    643: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course (he made me 50k in one day, after all).


    644: Anonymous Explorer


    Can''t argue with that.


    645: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s making real money, there''s nothing to complain about.


    646: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾641


    Is it free? If I watch that, can I start making 50k a day too?


    647: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾646


    That''s not gonna happen.


    648: Anonymous Explorer


    If you don''t have an explorer license yet, you should go get it now.


    649: Anonymous Explorer


    We''re in the Great Explorer Era.


    650: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun mentioned a while back that it''s one of his EX duties to increase the number of explorers.


    651: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾650


    Looks like it''s working, huh?


    652: Anonymous Explorer


    So far, it''s just people who already had licenses pushing deeper into the dungeon.


    653: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s more than enough progress.


    654: Anonymous Explorer


    If the people stuck in the upper floors move to the mid-levels, that''s a big help for the country.


    655: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ll be exporting more magic stones abroad, so it''ll raise everyone''s standard of living here too.


    656: Anonymous Explorer


    If we had 100 Kisaragi-kuns, the country would be swimming in cash, maybe even get tax cuts.


    657: Anonymous Explorer


    If there were 100 of him, we''d be conquered first.


    658: Anonymous Explorer


    Not gonna lie, that seems entirely possible.


    659: Anonymous Explorer


    Too strong, lol.


    660: Anonymous Explorer


    Now I''m curious about what the other EX-rankers are like.


    661: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Reiman and the strongest granny?


    662: Anonymous Explorer


    The name "EX Reiman" alone makes me laugh, stop it.


    663: Anonymous Explorer


    How much did they earn from that stream, I wonder?


    664: Anonymous Explorer


    They obliterated every monster they met.


    665: Anonymous Explorer


    The size of those magic stones was ridiculous too.


    666: Anonymous Explorer


    The tiny pebble-sized magic stones we get just seem pathetic now.


    667: Anonymous Explorer


    Seeing fist-sized magic stones had me laughing.


    668: Anonymous Explorer


    In an hour, I made 70,000 by selectively fighting weaker enemies in the lower floors. Considering how different the deep floors seem compared to the lower floors, I bet they made millions from that stream alone.


    669: Anonymous Explorer


    Whoa.


    670: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s insane.


    671: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, Kisaragi-kun is always buying expensive stuff.


    672: Anonymous Explorer


    Living the luxurious life.


    673: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion also gives off the impression of someone who''s into high-end brands.


    674: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun apparently spends a lot of money just to keep the economy going since he has so much of it.


    675: Anonymous Explorer


    Man, he''s still in high school¡­


    676: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, older men are just hoarding wealth and trying to make more of it.


    677: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s boosting personal consumption rates on his own, lol.


    678: Anonymous Explorer


    The man single-handedly raising Japan''s economic stats.


    679: Anonymous Explorer


    The only reason Japan''s economy is doing well is because of dungeons. We used to rely on imports for food and fuel, but now we''re getting everything from dungeons, and despite being such a small country, we have tons of dungeons and four EX-rankers!


    680: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, Kamishiro Rion''s a slacker, though.


    681: Anonymous Explorer


    She needs to work harder.


    682: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Russia and China don''t have many dungeons and are losing to even Australia, making things really complicated for them.


    683: Anonymous Explorer


    The UN is falling apart too.


    684: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to go swimming at the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon.


    685: Anonymous Explorer


    China couldn''t go to war because they were too scared of Jinguji Kaede. Poor them, really.


    686: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾684


    But the ocean there attacks you.


    687: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop trying to play around in the deep floors.


    688: Anonymous Explorer


    Just go to a normal beach.


    689: Anonymous Explorer


    I just got my explorer''s license! They said I have potential, but I''m pretty sure that''s just flattery!


    690: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Welcome to hell.


    691: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Welcome to heaven.


    692: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾690


    £¾£¾691


    Which is it?


    693: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s both heaven and hell.


    694: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s definitely a place close to the afterlife.


    695: Anonymous Explorer


    You can make money, but you could easily lose your life.


    696: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    If possible, try to join a party. Soloing is only for those confident in their abilities.


    697: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Always prioritize your life over money. You''ll die easily if you don''t.


    698: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾689


    Even if you have money, you won''t be able to spend it if you''re dead. Make sure your gear is in top shape and listen to advice from veteran explorers.


    699: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾696


    £¾£¾697


    £¾£¾698


    Thanks for the advice! I''ll watch Kisaragi-kun''s dungeon basics class first before diving in. My goal is to make 10 million a year!


    700: Anonymous Explorer


    There are barely any explorers making 10 million a year, you know? Those earnings reports are just daily profit and loss¡ªequipment costs are a separate thing entirely.


    701: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾699


    It''s good to be motivated, but keep in mind that explorers are considered self-employed, so you''ll have to do your own taxes.


    702: Anonymous Explorer


    Transportation to the dungeon can be written off as a business expense, and as long as your gear isn''t super custom-made, you can deduct that too. If you get injured, you can probably deduct about half of your potion costs.


    That about covers it?


    703: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾702


    You forgot the explorer tax deductions.


    704: Anonymous Explorer


    Ask the Association about that.


    705: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾699


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    https://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Image


    Here''s a list of tax accountants Kisaragi-kun recommended. If you start making decent money, just hire one of these guys.


    706: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾705


    Thanks.


    707: Anonymous Explorer


    I wasn''t talking to you, but sure, whatever.


    708: Anonymous Explorer


    Doing taxes is a pain when you''re an explorer with a side job.


    709: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾708


    Don''t evade your taxes, okay?


    710: Anonymous Explorer


    There are actually a lot of explorers who accidentally evade taxes. It''s usually not intentional, they just don''t understand how to do their taxes properly.

 Chapter 55 - 55: Dungeon Basics: EX-Class Lecture!

    I''ve received an overwhelming number of interview requests. It''s probably because of yesterday''s deep-floor stream... but dealing with them is a hassle, so I wish Kamishiro-san could handle all of them.


    Both Kamishiro-san and I generally understand what we did, but we had no idea it would cause such a societal stir and become top news. I thought it would just hit some online news and cause a bit of chaos on message boards¡­ but when we got back to the Shibuya Dungeon entrance, the head of the Shibuya Dungeon branch was crouched over, holding his stomach like he was in pain.


    That, at least, made me laugh.


    "So, you''re staying at a different place this time?"


    "Because it was easier."


    The apartment near Shibuya Station that I usually use already had reporters swarming it, so I used magic to create an illusion and slip away. Specifically, I made it look like I was a different resident, so I could walk through the crowd of reporters. I own a few apartments in Tokyo, so I chose one not too far from Shibuya Station to meet with Asakawa-san.


    "I see... Personally, I''d rather ask about your relationship with Kamishiro Rion, though?"


    "...Is there something you want me to say?"


    "Heh¡­ even though you recruited me first."


    "I didn''t recruit Kamishiro-san, though?"


    "That''s not what I meant! Ugh..."


    I really don''t understand women.


    Asakawa-san seems a little sulky, but she''s not seriously angry, so I think it''s okay to leave it alone for now. Not that I know any other way to handle it.


    "By the way, Asakawa-san, you''ve gotten a lot stronger."


    "...Can you stop watching the archive while I''m right in front of you?"


    "Why? It''s just for record-keeping. There''s nothing to be embarrassed about."


    She''s looking at me like she can''t believe it, but if it''s so embarrassing, why do dungeon streams in the first place?


    "B-But more importantly... are you planning to stick with just dungeon exploration?"


    "No, I''ll be doing a variety of things. For now, the next stream will be a basic dungeon lecture, so I''m aiming to make it easy to understand for anyone watching."


    "I see. After that, let''s do a collab with me next."


    "Wait, what?"


    Did she just casually decide that without asking?


    "I want to announce that I''ll be one of the streamers under the company you''re setting up."


    "Well, that might be necessary... Alright, I understand. After the basics lecture, we''ll do a collab with you."


    Speaking of collabs, I noticed a bunch of collab requests piling up in my SNS messages. Most of the "carry me through" type requests I''ve been ignoring¡­ but there are a few from streamers I''m interested in.


    "..."


    "Something on your mind?"


    "No, it''s nothing."


    Among the collab requests, one was from someone I''ve been particularly interested in. After watching Asakawa-san''s dungeon streams, I''ve been keeping an eye on a few other promising dungeon streamers, and one of them sent me a request. I don''t want to miss this opportunity, so I''ll respond and set up a collab for a date that works.


    "So, what''s the plan for the next collab?"


    "I want to go to the lower floors of Hachioji Dungeon!"


    "...Well, okay."


    Maybe she got curious because I mentioned it earlier. Hachioji Dungeon doesn''t have much to do¡ªit''s a pretty flat dungeon¡ªbut it might be good for training.


    "Anyway, let''s have lunch!"


    "Yeah, sounds good. I have some pretty nice ingredients."


    "Huh?"


    Why is Asakawa-san smiling but frozen in place?


    "How much would those ingredients cost if you bought them?"


    "I don''t know? Depends on how the market auction goes."


    "Ahhhhhh!"


    So loud.


    A few days after the deep-floor stream with Kamishiro-san, I''ve completed a few requests as an EX explorer, and since I had some free time today, I''m at the top floor of Hachioji Dungeon. I wanted to go to Shibuya Dungeon, but since it''s summer vacation, the upper and top floors are way too crowded.


    Since there were too many people to hold the basics lecture there, I decided to do it at Hachioji Dungeon¡­ but I have a feeling this stream might get a little chaotic.


    "As planned, today I''ll be doing a basic dungeon lecture."


    : Been waiting for this.


    : Thanks!


    : I got my explorer license, but I didn''t know what to do next, so this is really helpful.


    : Hopefully, this will help more explorers get to the mid-level floors.


    : Well, that depends on talent.


    : Even just tips for the upper floors would be useful.


    "This stream is mainly for those working in the top or upper floors, or for people aspiring to become explorers. Today, we have a special guest here to help with the lecture."


    : Another guest, huh?


    : This guy barely does solo streams anymore.


    : Can''t be helped.


    : Who?


    : If it''s a dungeon lecture, it''s probably someone from the Association.


    : People were saying this is an Association project.


    "Our guest is EX Reiman, Aizawa Ryosuke."


    "So, is ''EX Reiman'' a popular nickname now? People keep calling me that on my SNS too."


    "I guess so? It''s probably because your social media is all business-related."


    "So you know the reason¡­ Why didn''t you tell me sooner?" S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : !?


    : EX Reiman?!


    : Another EX guest, seriously?


    : This guy''s streams are becoming legendary.


    : He is the legend, lol.


    : Lol, dungeon basics lecture (featuring two EX-rankers).


    : What¡­?


    The comment section is blowing up again. Honestly¡­ I did get the idea from how many viewers we had when Kamishiro-san joined as a surprise guest, but I didn''t expect Aizawa-san would actually come. He''s a really busy guy.


    "Hello, viewers of Kisaragi Tsukasa ch. I''m Aizawa Ryosuke, EX-ranked explorer and the chairman of the Japanese Explorer''s Union. Since this is my first time doing a dungeon basics lecture, I''ll be appearing as a guest today."


    : His introduction really sounds like a salaryman, lol.


    : As expected from the ex-salaryman EX.


    : He quit the company, but they still call him EX Reiman.


    : Poor guy.


    : He''s so cool, though.


    : Such an adult vibe.


    : Please take care of our clueless Kisaragi-kun.


    : Thank goodness.


    : With someone normal here, this lecture might actually be useful.


    Hey. I''ve been preparing all this stuff for today, and yet the viewers think I''m some wild idiot. I''m still better than Kamishiro-san, at least.


    "So, with the help of Aizawa-san, who usually assists explorers going into the lower and deep floors, today''s lecture will focus on the basics for the top and upper floors."


    "Looking forward to it."


    Man¡­ I''m glad Aizawa-san is here for this stream. With him involved, it''s not likely to devolve into a mess, and the lecture will be a lot more coherent than if I were doing it solo. It actually feels like I''m doing my job as an EX explorer. I think I''ll start doing dungeon strategy lectures more regularly.

 Chapter 56 - 56: Dungeon Basics: Mastering Magic Control!

    "First, let''s start with what''s essential for dungeon exploration."


    Even though we just say "dungeon," they''re divided into top, upper, middle, lower, and deep floors. Additionally, each dungeon¡ªwhether it''s Shibuya, Hachioji, or Takayama¡ªhas different environments and monsters, so the way to approach them differs. Still, there are things that are universally important in every dungeon.


    "In my opinion, the essential skill for dungeon exploration is¡­ controlling the magic within your body."


    "Hmm. That''s an interesting way to start a basics lecture."


    "Well, it''s also the first thing I learned."


    : So what does that mean?


    : Sure, controlling magic is important, but...


    : Is this about learning to use magic?


    : What happens when you control your magic?


    : Starting with a tough topic, huh?


    "It''s simple. Even if you just get a general sense of the magic flowing through your body and move it freely, as long as you can do that, you won''t suffer major injuries from upper-floor monsters."


    "Well, that''s true. The most important thing in dungeon exploration is surviving."


    : Prioritize survival, huh.


    : How do you circulate magic?


    : That depends on the person.


    : For me, it''s like rising from my stomach.


    : Isn''t that vomiting?


    : I imagine it flowing from my heart.


    : I thought it covered my body like a shield.


    Everyone''s image of magic differs. In my case, I imagine it flowing through my body like blood, and I can store it in specific places or speed up its overall movement.


    "If you send a lot of magic into your arms, you can crush rocks, and even if a monster bites you, it won''t leave a mark. It''s said that many young people born with abundant magic do this unconsciously."


    : Young people are dungeon elites, huh.


    : Damn, I need to become an explorer now since I''m still young.


    : If you''re in your 30s, you''re no longer "young."


    : Lol.


    : Among explorers, you''re practically an old man.


    : That''s rough.


    : So, controlling magic flow is key.


    "As I mentioned in a previous stream, magic is a versatile force... If you get the hang of it, you can even walk in the air."


    I imagine a surface of magic under my feet, solidified like a staircase, and start walking in the air. The extent of this ability depends on the person''s imagination, but at the very least, it''s possible to fly, like Kamishiro-san does.


    "Impressive... I''ve never seen someone handle magic so naturally."


    "Huh? But Aizawa-san can do this too, right?"


    "I can, but not that smoothly."


    : Wait, you can do that too?


    : So, there was a theory behind that floating trick.


    : Floating? Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : That wasn''t floating, that was flying.


    : He wasn''t hovering; he was flying at high speed.


    "That''s just because Kamishiro-san is crazy. I can''t fly that fast."


    : But you can still fly!


    : I tried copying that trick in the dungeon the other day, but it didn''t work.


    : Of course you can''t fly, lol.


    : Dude''s casually talking while walking through the air.


    What are the viewers even thinking while watching this stream?


    Even Aizawa-san is walking in the air as if he''s climbing stairs, so it proves that anyone can do it if they try. My grandma helped me polish my magic control skills early on, and it''s been a huge help. The fact that I can cut through deep-floor monsters with an unnamed sword is all thanks to controlling my magic.


    "For starters, you should at least practice the technique of hardening your body with magic. By the way, magic control training can be done at home. Try it before bed, like meditating for 10 minutes."


    "They say that circulating magic within your body improves health too, so even if you''re not aiming to become an explorer, it''s worth trying."


    : Oh, interesting.


    : If it''s good for your health, I might try it too.


    : You can do it at home?


    : I guess, since it''s all internal.


    : Seems easy.


    : I''ll give it a go since it sounds simple.


    : Is it hard for beginners?


    : Is it like muscle training?


    "Even if you''re not used to it, it''s not too hard. You''re just moving magic inside your body, after all."


    Just like how no one gets tired from blood circulating in their veins, moving magic won''t wear out your body. It''s no more exhausting than taking a deep breath.


    "Once you can control your magic, just go beat up some upper-floor monsters, and you''ll be a full-fledged explorer."


    "Wait, hold on!"


    : Lol.


    : That escalated quickly.


    : That was fast, huh.


    : As expected.


    : EX-rankers are all muscle brains.


    : Basic lecture (just a little).


    : Well, to be fair, it''s somewhat helpful.


    : Is that it, though?


    Is that all, they ask?


    Well, yeah¡ªif you have decent magic control, you can take down upper-floor monsters with ease. There''s no need for more strategy beyond that. After that, just keep diving into dungeons, save up some money, and buy a better weapon. The middle floors are a different story, though, so be careful!


    "Sorry, everyone... That''s just how Kisaragi-kun is."


    : We knew it.


    : EX Reiman has it tough.


    : He''s the only sensible EX-ranker.


    : Truly the "Light of the EX."


    : Reiman, we''re counting on you.


    : Don''t base an entire livestream around magic control.


    : This basics lecture is a lie, lol.


    : Saw this coming a mile away.


    Ugh... what else is there to say? Like, "If an alarm goes off, evacuate immediately"?


    "R-Right... so, next, let''s talk about monsters'' traits and weaknesses."


    "For upper-floor monsters, there are no weaknesses worth talking about."


    "Hmm... I think that''s just you, Kisaragi-kun."


    : This guy...


    : "Upper-floor monsters aren''t a threat" (self-centered thinking).


    : Is he okay?


    : Turns out he really is out of touch.


    : People do get injured on the upper floors, you know?


    : Occasionally, someone even dies charging in recklessly.


    : Born to be EX, huh.


    "Were there any monsters on the upper floors of Shibuya Dungeon you were cautious about? Maybe just the hard ants?"


    "People have almost died from being bitten by those Steel Ants, you know?"


    "Wait, really? From the bite that barely leaves a mark, like a bug bite?"


    When I came back from my first dungeon dive and showed my grandma the spot where I got bitten by a Steel Ant, she just told me to put some steroid ointment on it.


    : Lol.


    : Dude, you''re just too tough.


    : Those ants can also spit acid, you know?


    : They''re a pretty significant threat.


    : If you''re not used to it, Steel Ants are a real pain.


    "...I see."


    "T-That''s true... If you can control your magic, they''re not much of a threat."


    "No, it''s fine... You don''t need to sugarcoat it."


    Honestly, I thought it was just internet people exaggerating as usual, but... Now that I think about it, I do remember Shinano-san telling me to be careful of the Steel Ants¡­ I just can''t recall it clearly.


    But now I''ve learned. Steel Ants aren''t just hard¡ªthey''re pretty strong. I''ll make sure to actually look up monster info for the next lecture instead of relying on my impressions.

 Chapter 57 - 57: Dungeon Basics: EX Reiman’s Perfect Combat Demonstration

    : How did you think you could do a basics lecture with such a lack of common sense?


    : The only good move you made was bringing in EX Reiman, right?


    : A basics lecture that ends with "control magic, then just punch stuff" is a joke, right?


    : It''s all over.


    : Do people who go to the middle floors really think like that?


    : Wouldn''t it have been better to bring in Asagao-chan instead?


    : Honestly, a lower-floor tutorial might''ve been more useful.


    "...Today is about the basics."


    : He''s determined to continue.


    : Gotta admit, his mental toughness is impressive.


    : Lol.


    : A basics lecture from an EX, surely useful...


    : Yeah, sure.


    : My stomach hurts from laughing.


    : Laughing too hard, man.


    Damn it... I was so determined to show a well-organized stream today, but I messed it up because I lacked just a little bit of common sense.


    "They say your understanding of dungeons changes after your first exploration. Even I didn''t think Steel Ants were tough at first."


    : Oh, come on¡­


    : [Breaking news] EX Reiman was also a natural-born EX.


    : Guess that''s just how it is.


    : When you can handle the middle floors, you start wondering why you struggled with Steel Ants at all.


    : Humans evolve, after all.


    : So, he was out of the norm from the start.


    "On the flip side, monsters I used to find threatening on the middle floors are easy to deal with now. With enough effort, anyone can become a successful dungeon explorer."


    "...But I don''t recommend going solo."


    In the end, dungeon exploration is like a gamble where you risk your life to make money. If you''re lucky, you''ll make a killing. If not¡­ you''ll die.


    That''s where having allies comes in. Even if you have bad luck, teammates can save your life. You might not make money, but if you''re alive¡­ there''s always hope. Humans can bounce back from anything.


    : Says the guy who solos the deep floors?


    : Sure, the rewards are less when you split it among more people, but it also means lower medical bills, so it''s give and take.


    : I recommend going in a party.


    : I want to join a party too¡­ but I have no friends. ^^;


    : Hang in there, friendless brother.


    : Doesn''t the association support stuff like that?


    "They do recommend forming parties, and if you contact the association, you can probably meet explorers looking for members... But since you''re dealing with humans, there''s always the risk of conflicts. So, it''s best to explore with people you know well."


    "And that''s why nobody forms parties?"


    Don''t assume people like me and the viewers, who read books in the corner of the classroom or got bullied, have friends to form a party with.


    Well... I wanted to form a party at first too, but it didn''t happen.


    : People you know?


    : Friends?


    : Oh no, the viewers are malfunctioning.


    : Most of Kisaragi-kun''s viewers are just like him.


    : I go exploring with five friends, though.


    : Having friends? That alone makes you a national treasure.


    : I thought friends were an urban legend.


    : Who are these "friends"?


    "Ah¡­ For people like that, it might be good to find someone online who shares your interests. Of course, be careful when meeting people from the internet..."


    Well, that''s a compromise, I guess.


    I would''ve tried to make some real friends if my grandma hadn''t forced me to be her disciple and learn shikigami techniques, which quickly led me to become EX-ranked. So, I don''t really know much about that stuff.


    "Maybe I should talk about mindset for dungeon beginners¡­?"


    "Mindset? Like ''retreat before you die''?"


    "In the association, we teach people to retreat before they even start feeling exhausted. If you''re unsure about that line, you can ask the association to send a high-ranked explorer as support, but it might feel too safe."


    : That''s exactly it.


    : Having a support role with you makes it hard to stay on guard.


    : Somewhere in the back of your mind, you start thinking, "I won''t die anyway."


    : Yeah, I totally get that.


    : Quite a few explorers here, huh?


    : Of course.


    : Honestly, having someone carry you is like shaving years off your life.


    : It''s practically suicide.


    "I often get messages asking me to ''carry'' them, but I just ignore those. If you don''t have the will or the determination to survive, you shouldn''t be exploring dungeons."


    : As expected, he gets those kinds of requests.


    : Even C-rank streamers get requests for carries.


    : How''s that even fun?


    : There are people who want to get carried in games, right? It''s the same thing.


    : What''s so fun about that?


    : Real explorers find joy in the challenge.


    "Dungeon exploration is fun. Reaching an unknown floor, discovering new things¡ªit really feels like an adventure."


    : Except, most of us don''t reach unknown floors.


    : He''s talking about deep floors, isn''t he?


    : Yeah, no thanks.


    : I just enjoy wandering around dungeons.


    : Studying monster behavior is fun too.


    : You need that RPG-like sense of adventure to really enjoy it.


    : Exploring the unknown¡­ Wait, didn''t you already reach the highest floor?


    Wait¡­ isn''t that it?


    For me, 80% of the fun of dungeon exploration is reaching unknown floors. I was seriously excited when I reached the 86th floor of Shibuya Dungeon the other day.


    "It was fun when we reached the 86th floor, right?"


    : Yeah, I guess.


    : It was fun, but¡­


    : So that''s what you''re chasing?


    : I kinda get it now.


    : It definitely felt amazing.


    : Well, aside from the danger.


    : Yeah, there''s a thrill to reaching places no one''s been before.


    : In that sense, that stream was a huge success.


    : Even looking at the numbers, it was a big hit.


    Anyway, I want people who dive into dungeons to find joy beyond just making money. For me, it''s reaching unknown floors, which might be a high bar¡­ but you can also enjoy defeating monsters.


    "Aizawa-san, what did you enjoy about dungeon exploration when you were a beginner?"


    "...I''d hunt monsters while thinking about how much the magic stones would sell for."


    : Lol.


    : I mean, yeah, that''s fun.


    : The mindset of a struggling salaryman.


    : He was still a salaryman back then.


    : In a way, that''s the best motivation.


    : Money is important, after all.


    : Ah, the basics.


    : This really is a basics lecture.


    : Yeah¡­ Everyone dreams of making money when they first dive into dungeons.


    T-True... I think I originally wanted to make money too. Part of it was because explorers looked cool, but another part of me wanted money I could spend freely as a high schooler. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Now, I enjoy teaching newer explorers, which is why I don''t go down to the deep floors as much. I don''t even take on many of the association''s requests anymore, despite being EX-ranked."


    "Really? But you''re so strong, Aizawa-san."


    In terms of close combat alone, Aizawa-san is probably the strongest among the EX-rankers.


    Aizawa-san is someone who fights purely by the book, with a solid, reliable approach. Of course, the "basics" he sticks to are on an EX-level scale, though.


    I kinda want to see him fight again¡­ Maybe we should talk about how to deal with weaker monsters.

 Chapter 58 - 58: Dungeon Basics: A True Explorers Approach

    "So, next is live combat."


    "I''m the one doing it, huh..."


    "Come on, it''s better this way. My fighting style isn''t exactly helpful for anyone to learn from."


    "Well, that''s true."


    : We knew it.


    : Kisaragi''s fighting style is useless as a reference, after all.


    : I still haven''t heard of anyone who''s managed to use shikigami techniques yet.


    : Doesn''t it require a lot of restrictions or something?


    : Shikigami techniques are pointless unless the user is strong themselves.


    : Can EX Reiman''s fighting style even be helpful?


    : Thanks to Kisaragi and Kamishiro Rion, everyone''s skeptical, lol.


    "I''ve heard my moves are fairly easy to follow, though..."


    "Well, we''ll find out by watching."


    There''s no doubt Aizawa-san''s movements serve as a good example for beginners. His fighting style is built on rock-solid fundamentals, so even I find it useful to watch. Hachioji Dungeon''s upper and top floors are perfectly flat, so it''s easy to see everything. I can clearly spot the two dogs coming toward us from a distance.


    "There are a lot of hound dogs that size in Hachioji Dungeon''s upper floors. They''re faster than the goblins in Shibuya Dungeon, but they''re more fragile, so once you get used to them, they''re pretty easy to deal with."


    : Dogs, huh?


    : But beast-type monsters are usually strong.


    : They''re fast, that''s for sure.


    : I''ve been to Hachioji Dungeon, and yeah, it was hard to keep up with their speed at first.


    : They''re not strong, but they''re annoying.


    : Personally, goblins are easier for me.


    As the hound dogs approach, Aizawa-san readies the large silver shield he had been carrying in his left hand and a simple, unadorned double-edged longsword in his right. This is Aizawa-san''s fighting style.


    For dungeon beginners, the recommended style is usually to swap out the longsword for a spear. Since spears have more reach, it generally gives you an advantage.


    The hound dogs charge in, but Aizawa-san calmly blocks the first one with his shield and precisely thrusts his longsword into the throat of the second. Even against monsters, if they have a biological form, you can figure out the vital points. The neck and eyes are usually good targets.


    "Ha!"


    With a swift motion, he withdraws the longsword from the first hound dog''s throat, blocks the second''s bite with his shield, and again pierces the throat with his sword. Just like that, the fight is over.


    "How was that?"


    : Solid and reliable.


    : That''s a side-job explorer for you.


    : Easy to understand.


    : He takes out one enemy at a time carefully, huh.


    : Maybe it''s safer to block and then attack?


    : That was actually more helpful than I thought.


    : A thousand times more useful than Kisaragi.


    Hey.


    Sure, if it were me, I''d have decapitated both hound dogs before they even attacked, but I wasn''t planning to show off that much during this basics lecture.


    "What I just did is possible in Hachioji Dungeon because it''s flat and you can clearly see the two enemies coming. But in Shibuya Dungeon''s upper floors, where it''s more confined, you need to be constantly wary of ambushes. You''ll have to play it twice as carefully to stay safe."


    Being cautious of ambushes is common sense in dungeon exploration. You never know where monsters will come from in a dungeon, and if you don''t stay vigilant, you could die easily. It''s especially dangerous right after winning a fight.


    : Cool.


    : I want to try fighting with a shield and sword now.


    : But get a lighter shield than what Reiman uses¡ªit''s definitely heavy, lol.


    : True.


    : No injuries after getting bitten by a hound dog¡ªhe must have a good shield.


    "This shield? It''s made from the material of a super-hard golem found in the deep floors. The shield itself has magical properties that constantly disperse magic energy around it."


    "Hard golem? The one that appears in the deep floors of the Sapporo Dungeon?"


    "That''s the one. Kisaragi-kun, you really know your dungeons."


    "Only the deep floors, though."


    : Only the deep floors?


    : What does that even mean, lol.


    : If you know the deep floors, surely you know the upper floors too, right?


    : This guy just skips the basics.


    : Did he tame a kirin or something?


    : I wouldn''t be surprised.


    "...Anyway, let''s not focus on me."


    I can''t exactly admit I usually use way more underhanded methods. I only go through dungeons properly when it''s a vague request from the association. If I have business in the deep floors, I''ll take shortcuts. Lately, though, I''ve been sticking to more straightforward methods, especially during streams or when accompanying Asakawa-san.


    "Oh, looks like more hound dogs are coming."


    "That''s rare. I thought in Hachioji Dungeon there''d be a few minutes of downtime after each fight."


    "It depends on the day."


    Yeah, dungeons fluctuate in terms of magical energy concentration, which affects monster spawn rates. The association gives rough estimates, but they''re only accurate about 60% of the time, so I wouldn''t rely too much on them.


    : Today''s forecast for Hachioji Dungeon said it''d be a heavy monster day.


    : Looks like they were right!


    : Finally, the forecast was on point.


    : They''re right more often than not, to be fair.


    : What do you think the association''s forecast is, a weather report?


    : Feels like an unreliable weather forecast to me.


    : I almost died because I didn''t believe it once¡ªtrust me, take it seriously.


    : Lol.


    : Can''t believe you survived.


    This time there are four hound dogs. Seems like today really is one of those heavy monster days... I did clear a bunch of them during a recent job, but I guess the numbers are back up.


    "With four of them, I''ll have to change my approach a bit."


    "I''ll be watching from the back."


    "Thanks." S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With four enemies, his previous strategy of just blocking and counterattacking wouldn''t work as well. I barely know anything about using shields, so I''m curious to see how Aizawa-san will handle this more cautiously.


    "Arrow."


    As the four hound dogs close in, Aizawa-san casually shoots a low-power magic arrow from his fingers. It''s a simple spell, just enough to disrupt one of the hound dogs, creating a gap between it and the other three.


    "Hah!"


    As I watched, Aizawa-san blocked the bite of the first hound dog with his shield, then thrust the shield forward, slamming it into the dog''s face and knocking it back. While the hound dog tumbled away, two more charged in, but Aizawa-san deftly cut both of their legs as he retreated.


    The fourth dog, still separated by the arrow, rushed in on its own and was swiftly blocked and countered with a fatal blow.


    : Impressive.


    : Wow.


    : Smooth moves.


    "Arrow!"


    Without missing a beat, Aizawa-san fired another magic arrow at the hound dog that had been knocked back by the shield, then quickly approached the two with cut legs and dispatched them by slashing their throats. The last dog was finished off soon after.


    "How about that? Even weak magic can be used as a distraction, and it''s a basic strategy that works even in the deep floors. I did it all myself this time, but if you were in a party, this approach would be even easier."


    : Super basic, yet super clean.


    : This proves you can become EX just by mastering the fundamentals.


    : A true explorer''s approach.


    : So cool.


    : A more "proper" explorer than Kisaragi-kun.


    : Loving this.


    : I''m officially an EX Reiman fan now.


    : Can Reiman start streaming too?


    : Other EXs should learn from this.


    Why am I getting roasted?


    Aizawa-san does way crazier stuff when he''s fighting in the deep floors!


    I''m going to drag him into the deep floors on stream next time. Then people will start talking about him the same way they talk about me and Kamishiro-san. At least when I first saw Aizawa-san fight as an EX, I thought he was inhuman.

 Chapter 59 - 59: The Realities of Being an Explorer: The Struggle for Survival and Pay

    "We still need to collect the magic stones."


    "¡­How much is a hound dog''s magic stone worth?"


    "Let''s see¡­ with this size and purity, it''s about 500 yen, I''d say."


    "Eh?"


    That''s cheap. Are top-floor monsters usually this low? Does that mean you need to kill 20 of them to make 10,000 yen?


    : Sounds about right.


    : A bit more than goblins, I guess?


    : That''s pocket money for a kid.


    : For a side job, it''s still a life-threatening one.


    : Not so much on the top floors, though.


    : Even though hound dogs are a hassle, they''re only worth slightly more than goblins?


    "¡­Could it be that the reason we don''t see more explorers is because of these prices?"


    "That''s probably it. The guild''s been asking for higher buyback prices, but not much has changed."


    "It''s a tough world¡­ No wonder there aren''t more mid-floor explorers."


    "Exactly."


    Even though the government paying more would probably be the most effective way to increase the number of explorers, Japan tends to hate the idea of spreading money around domestically. Especially now, when Japan has solidified its position as a dungeon superpower.


    The country is making money, and the people are getting a bit wealthier, but the improvement in the economy is just numbers¡ªpeople don''t really feel it, like they said on TV.


    : If the government paid more¡­


    : If they''re exporting magic stones, they should pay more for them.


    : Totally.


    : They''re buying cheap from their own people and selling high abroad, huh?


    : It''s not funny.


    : But if they increase the price too much, more people will die.


    : That''s just the excuse they use to keep prices down.


    : In the end, it''s Japan itself that''s the real enemy, huh?


    : Somebody destroy the National Diet Dungeon already.


    What the heck is the National Diet Dungeon?


    Well, I get it. There''s definitely dissatisfaction with the government lately¡­ Explorers ranked B or higher often get jobs from the guild, but a lot of them refuse. I might feel a sense of duty as an EX, but when you''re underpaid for magic stones for so long, and then suddenly they''re willing to pay once you''ve proven yourself, I understand why people are bitter.


    "Kisaragi, how far did you climb the ranks again?"


    "Me? I went from E to EX."


    : Huh?


    : Did he just slap an X on his E-rank and call it EX?


    : Isn''t EX something you get after S-rank?


    : So EX isn''t just a natural progression from the lower ranks?


    : Seriously?


    : That seems unfair, but¡­ I guess he''s ridiculously strong, so it makes sense.


    "Right, you were recommended by Jinguuji, weren''t you?"


    "Yeah, that''s right."


    : Huh, so EX is a recommendation system.


    : What about Aizawa?


    : I always thought EX was something you achieved by ranking up normally.


    : Didn''t know that.


    I guess not many people know about this¡­ It''s treated like common knowledge among higher-ranked explorers. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "There are two ways to become an EX-ranked explorer: either the Explorers Guild deems you exceptional, or you''re directly recommended by someone who is EX-rank. Jinguuji-san and I were promoted from S-rank by the guild."


    "I was recommended by my grandma¡­ Jinguuji Kaede-san, when I was still E-rank. Kamishiro-san, I think, was promoted from A by the guild."


    Suddenly being told to become her apprentice, forced into dungeon diving, and then mastering shikigami techniques¡­ When she said, "You''re EX now," with a satisfied look on her face, I had no idea what was going on.


    Now, I use my EX privileges left and right without hesitation, but back then, I didn''t know what to do with this sudden status. Aizawa-san was the one who taught me most of the basics of being an explorer. So, while I''m grateful to my grandma, I really respect Aizawa-san. Kamishiro-san, I trust because we''ve fought side by side, but respect¡­ not so much.


    : I dream of becoming EX, but I''m just not strong enough.


    : Honestly, if you''re thinking about becoming an explorer, you''d be better off getting a part-time job somewhere.


    : Hmm¡­ maybe.


    : If you''re just going to stick to the top floors, a part-time job is probably better.


    : Seriously, normal work is better.


    : Explorers don''t make much money.


    "As long as people say explorers don''t make money, the numbers won''t increase."


    "That''s probably why so many people start streaming or blogging."


    Because just being an explorer isn''t enough to live off of, people are trying to make extra income through ads and other sources.


    "The government does offer explorers special tax breaks and other incentives, but¡­ it''s not enough, is it?"


    "I guess it can''t be helped¡­ Being self-employed is just like that."


    This conversation is turning from a basics lecture into a rant about the struggles of being an explorer. I should get it back on track.


    "To summarize the basics: magic control, working in a party, aiming for one-on-one fights, being cautious of ambushes¡­ and, above all, prioritizing your life, right?"


    "Yeah. If you can do those things, you should be able to manage on the upper floors. As for mid-floor strategies¡­ we can save that for another time."


    "Let''s do this again."


    "That might be a good idea. The guild is concerned about the number of explorers, after all."


    : Nice.


    : That was fun in its own way.


    : Bring EX Reiman back next time.


    : Kisaragi''s streams are always interesting because he gets so many unique guests.


    : I wasn''t sure at first, but there was a lot of useful info.


    : I might actually try becoming an explorer.


    "Alright, let''s wrap up the stream. Everyone, take care of yourselves, and enjoy your dungeon explorations."


    "Good work, everyone."


    After the sign-off, I''ll just post on social media: "Next stream date is undecided, but (semi-forcibly) I''ll be collabing with Asagao-san next time." It probably won''t be long before the next one, though.


    "Thank you for today, Aizawa-san."


    "No problem. I thought it''d be interesting since you invited me. Even Kamishiro-san seemed to enjoy the stream."


    "You think so?"


    "Yeah¡­ but I do have some thoughts about not reporting your latest dungeon record and casually streaming the highest-floor run."


    I get it. Not reporting it was my fault. And casually streaming it¡­ well, that''s probably on both me and Kamishiro-san.


    "But I''m glad to see you''re still going strong as an explorer."


    "¡­Uh, I am EX-ranked, you know."


    "Everyone''s just worried about you because you''re still a high school kid."


    The world might see me as an EX, but Aizawa-san looks at me like I''m his nephew. And Grandma acts like a grandparent even though she says a lot of tough things. I guess in the explorer world, they see me as the youngest kid or something?

 Chapter 60 - 60: Thread 7: Dungeons, Dogs, and Underwater Nightmares

    597: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job watching live!


    598: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job!


    599: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job.


    Man, that was fun today too.


    600: Anonymous Explorer


    Was this board always this peaceful?


    601: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s pretty peaceful during the live streams.


    602: Anonymous Explorer


    Why though?


    Isn''t it usually the opposite?


    603: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Reiman was truly an EX.


    604: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾602


    No idea, man.


    605: Anonymous Explorer


    Reiman was really cool.


    606: Anonymous Explorer


    Reiman gave off that traditional vibe, which was quite likeable.


    607: Anonymous Explorer


    Fighting with a sword and shield gave him a knightly vibe, but I don''t think I could fight that smoothly.


    608: Anonymous Explorer


    Reiman''s steady style is probably meant for team-based combat.


    609: Anonymous Explorer


    He kept saying that teams are the way to go.


    610: Anonymous Explorer


    As the guild leader, he probably values the safety of explorers first and foremost.


    You could earn more by taking risks, but¡­


    611: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾610


    Yeah, but if you die, it''s game over.


    612: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it okay if we keep calling him Reiman¡­? We''ve all pretty much agreed on it now.


    613: Anonymous Explorer


    When it gets confusing, just add EX to it, like EX Reiman.


    614: Anonymous Explorer


    Poor Aizawa-san, being called Reiman even though he quit his salaryman job.


    615: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun said it himself, though. It''s because his social media is just work-related updates.


    616: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾615


    That part had me rolling.


    617: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾615


    "It''s because your social media is all work updates."


    "Did you know that was the reason all along? Why didn''t you tell me sooner?"


    That had me in stitches.


    618: Anonymous Explorer


    The dynamic of a nephew who knows but doesn''t tell, and a confused uncle¡ªit''s hilarious.


    619: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾617


    I haven''t even seen the archive yet, but I''m already laughing.


    620: Anonymous Explorer


    Now we know Kisaragi-kun''s relationships with each EX:


    Jinguuji Kaede (Grandmother)


    Kamishiro Rion (Older sister)


    Aizawa Ryousuke (Uncle)


    621: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾620


    It''s like they''re family.


    622: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾620


    They''re pretty close, huh?


    623: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    624: Anonymous Explorer


    No friends, but he''s got family.


    625: Anonymous Explorer


    Even Kisaragi-kun has at least some relatives, huh?


    626: Anonymous Explorer


    Are you guys confusing him with some kind of divine child?


    627: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾624


    Stating the obvious, huh?


    628: Anonymous Explorer


    How exactly do you control mana?


    629: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾628


    That''s basic stuff, man.


    630: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t do it if I can''t do it!


    631: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾628


    You know that feeling when you use magic, and mana flows? That''s it.


    632: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it true that channeling mana makes your body harder? I''m gonna try it.


    633: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾631


    Do you really feel something like that?


    634: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾633


    You must be a dungeon noob.


    635: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾633


    If you''ve been in a dungeon, used magic, and still can''t feel it, then you''re talentless. Quit being an explorer.


    636: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s too harsh, lol.


    637: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾635


    Huh?


    I''ll kill you, you f***ing loser.


    638: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾632


    It''s less about hardness and more like you create a thin layer of mana around your body. That''s how I picture it.


    639: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾638


    How you imagine the flow of mana is up to the individual.


    For me, it feels like sweat oozing out of my body.


    640: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾639


    Doesn''t that feel super gross?


    641: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾640


    Yeah, it does.


    642: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh, so it does, huh?


    643: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    644: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun said it feels like it''s inside his body.


    645: Anonymous Explorer


    Basically, it should be stored inside your body.


    646: Anonymous Explorer


    I looked it up online, and it said to breathe slowly and focus on the inside of your body. I''m gonna give it a try.


    647: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun tried to end the whole basics lecture with just mana control, but if you can master that, you can totally dominate the upper floors.


    648: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾628


    When you''re on the verge of dying in a dungeon, you naturally start doing it.


    Source: Me.


    649: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾648


    Wait¡­ what?


    650: Anonymous Explorer


    How to increase mana: Fight to the death with monsters.


    How to master mana control: Nearly get killed by monsters.


    Explorers are definitely a warrior race, huh?


    651: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾650


    You can''t survive without fighting, so yeah.


    652: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾648


    I had a similar experience. I could already control mana, but when I got cocky and went to the lower floors, I almost died. After that, my mana control got way better. The guild even praised me for it.


    653: Anonymous Explorer


    Aren''t you breaking your human limits?


    654: Anonymous Explorer


    So, conclusion: nearly dying is the solution, right?


    655: Anonymous Explorer


    No, that''s not right.


    656: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop giving life-or-death answers.


    657: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    658: Anonymous Explorer


    When you''re on the verge of death, you get a surge of strength, right? After experiencing that, your mana doesn''t go back to normal. So, it''s like you''re always in that heightened state.


    659: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾658


    How about not getting to the verge of death in the first place?


    660: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve definitely surpassed human limits at that point.


    661: Anonymous Explorer


    Fighting makes you stronger, and almost dying makes you much stronger. We really are a warrior race!


    662: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop it, stop it.


    People will start calling all explorers a warrior race.


    663: Anonymous Explorer


    But hey, we''re all living off the magic stones those warriors bring back, aren''t we?


    664: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s true, but still¡­


    665: Anonymous Explorer


    [Image]


    666: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    667: Anonymous Explorer


    What the heck¡­


    668: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾665


    £¾£¾"Next stream''s date is undecided, but (semi-forced) I''ll be collabing with Asagao-san."


    This guy is always doing collab streams.


    669: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾(semi-forced)


    Why do you let yourself get pushed around?


    670: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though he''s EX¡­ doesn''t he feel ashamed?


    671: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s EX, super strong, and can summon gods, but at his core, he''s just an awkward nerd like the rest of us.


    He''s weak against pushy women.


    672: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾671


    So, EX means he''s one of us?


    673: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    Lol.


    674: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    Lol.


    675: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    That''s great, let''s call him EX "one of us" from now on.


    676: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s graduated from "honorary nerd" to something even better.


    677: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾672


    He''s matching with EX Reiman now, too.


    678: Anonymous Explorer


    So, what about Kamishiro Rion?


    679: Anonymous Explorer


    A menace.


    680: Anonymous Explorer


    A walking disaster.


    681: Anonymous Explorer S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    A tyrant.


    682: Anonymous Explorer


    A natural disaster.


    683: Anonymous Explorer


    So far, not a single compliment like "beautiful" or anything.


    684: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    685: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just how it is.


    686: Anonymous Explorer


    Her sunny social media presence and that disaster energy are quite the contrast.


    687: Anonymous Explorer


    Now we all understand why Kisaragi-kun calls her a walking disaster in dungeons.


    688: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao-chan really doesn''t give up, huh?


    689: Anonymous Explorer


    She replied to him on social media right away. I laughed so hard.


    690: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s a hardcore Kisaragi-kun fan, huh?


    691: Anonymous Explorer


    She even claimed to be his top disciple the other day.


    692: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾691


    I saw the anti-thread go wild because of that.


    693: Anonymous Explorer


    Nobody needs an anti-thread about this chaotic place.


    694: Anonymous Explorer


    That anti-thread is so chaotic, I actually like it.


    695: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a mess with unicorns and trolls, so gross.


    696: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s really fun to just watch, though.


    697: Anonymous Explorer


    I thought I''d just check it out casually, but it was so crazy I ended up laughing my head off.


    698: Anonymous Explorer


    I was more focused on how empty the Hachioji Dungeon was than the content of the basics lecture.


    699: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t the Hachioji Dungeon always like that?


    700: Anonymous Explorer


    Have you ever been to the Hachioji Dungeon?


    You should go at least once.


    You won''t meet anyone at all.


    701: Anonymous Explorer


    In a way, it''s a dungeon that''s kind to introverts.


    702: Anonymous Explorer


    Kind to introverts (but you only make about half the money you do in Shibuya Dungeon).


    703: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    No wonder no one goes.


    704: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though the magic stones are cheap, on top of that, there are fewer monsters, so no one wants to go.


    705: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s a theory that no one explores the lower floors because it''s just not profitable.


    706: Anonymous Explorer


    I saw Kisaragi-kun on social media saying, "Since no one''s at the Hachioji Dungeon, maybe I''ll fully conquer it next time."


    Apparently, he''s only gone down to the 45th floor.


    707: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s rare for Kisaragi-kun.


    708: Anonymous Explorer


    He must''ve been really bored.


    709: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, the scenery never changes from the top floor to the bottom, so it''s probably mind-numbing.


    710: Anonymous Explorer


    Seriously, that place can mess with your head. You lose track of which floor you''re on. The only thing that tells you where you are is the sign put up by the Explorer''s Guild at each layer transition¡ªother than that, everything looks the same.


    711: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t that like a never-ending hell?


    712: Anonymous Explorer


    Pretty much.


    713: Anonymous Explorer


    No way I''m going there.


    714: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t want to step on an obvious landmine.


    715: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, unless it''s somewhere like the Shibuya Dungeon or Takayama Dungeon, where you''re guaranteed to make money, the fewer people there are.


    716: Anonymous Explorer


    Have we talked about one of the most deserted dungeons in the country yet¡ªNagoya Dungeon?


    717: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾716


    Go away.


    718: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾716


    Seriously, come back when the Nagoya Dungeon is even remotely explorable.


    719: Anonymous Explorer


    I have no idea about the Nagoya Dungeon at all.


    I''m confused.


    720: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾719


    It''s a super valuable dungeon that produces rare metals and stuff.


    You should go at least once.


    721: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾720


    Stop trying to throw someone into hell so casually.


    722: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh?


    Can someone explain, please?


    723: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾722


    From the 11th floor down, everything''s underwater.


    724: Anonymous Explorer


    £ßÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈËÈË£ß


    £¾ Everything''s underwater from the 11th floor £¼


    £þY^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y^Y£þ


    725: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾723


    Is that for real?


    726: Anonymous Explorer


    Yep, for real.


    727: Anonymous Explorer


    How are you supposed to explore that?


    728: Anonymous Explorer


    You can''t. That''s why it''s a problem.


    729: Anonymous Explorer


    Somebody drain the water already!


    730: Anonymous Explorer


    Not gonna happen!


    731: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s have Kisaragi-kun do something about it.


    He''s EX, so he should be able to handle it, right? (Leaving it to him entirely.)


    732: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s send him a reply on social media and ask him!


    733: Anonymous Explorer


    "Please conquer the Nagoya Dungeon."


    734: Anonymous Explorer


    Has Kisaragi-kun ever even been to the Nagoya Dungeon?


    735: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t the official stance basically that the Nagoya Dungeon might as well not even exist?


    736: Anonymous Explorer


    As someone living in Aichi Prefecture, I can confirm the Nagoya Dungeon is so bad that I just go to Takayama Dungeon instead.


    737: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re just sneaking off to Takayama, huh?


    738: Anonymous Explorer


    What are we going to do if he says, "The depths of the Nagoya Dungeon are hell too"?


    739: Anonymous Explorer


    Considering everything from the 11th floor down is submerged, how would that even work?


    740: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d still want to see it.


    741: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s Kisaragi-kun, so he could probably figure out how to breathe underwater, right? (Random assumption)


    742: Anonymous Explorer


    What do you even think EX explorers are?


    743: Anonymous Explorer


    Monsters.


    744: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, honestly, you''re not wrong.


    745: Anonymous Explorer


    Now that the basics lecture has made it easy for us to handle the upper floors, you all better get to the 20th floor of Nagoya Dungeon.


    746: Anonymous Explorer


    The basics lecture didn''t include underwater breathing¡­ Sorry!


    747: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol. Seaweed jokes for days.

 Chapter 61 - 61: Dreaming of Global Dungeons

    "Nagoya Dungeon?"


    For some reason, my social media is flooded with replies like, "Have you been to the Nagoya Dungeon?"... It''s probably something from a forum or discussion where my name came up.


    Nagoya Dungeon, huh? That''s the one that''s submerged from the staircase between the 10th and 11th floors, and it''s said to be impossible for humans to conquer. It''s easy for people to say things like "Go explore it" or "Have you been there?" without knowing the reality.


    "''I''ve only been down to the 34th floor,'' and send."


    Alright, it''s time to head out. I promised to go shopping with Asakawa today, so I should probably leave the house soon. It seems like the media is still hanging around my apartment near Shibuya Station, so I''ll continue commuting to the dungeon from this other place for a while.


    Still, why are we going shopping together when we already planned to do a collab stream at Hachioji Dungeon? Asakawa has tons of friends. She could go shopping with someone who''s more fashion-conscious instead of a guy who''s constantly exploring dungeons. But since I''m going out with a woman, I should at least make sure I''m presentable.


    Normally, I just run errands in my casual wear because I can''t be bothered, but this is different.


    "So, my friends are all busy studying for exams... I can''t make plans with anyone."


    "Well, you are a high school senior in the middle of exam season."


    "Yeah... Somehow, just doing whatever I want every day makes me feel a little guilty."


    "I don''t think you need to feel guilty. You''re putting your life on the line as an explorer, after all."


    We started off just casually chatting while walking, but it''s summer. It''s getting close to the Obon holiday, and with the heatwave, it became impossible to hold a conversation. So we ended up at a caf¨¦ near Shibuya Dungeon, as usual. I noticed a few media people near the dungeon, but we managed to blend in with the crowd and not get noticed.


    It seems the reason Asakawa invited me shopping is because her friends are too busy with exams. Honestly, I''d forgotten about it, but as a high school senior, this summer break is the peak season for exam prep. People going to cram schools are probably studying hard, and many others are switching from club activities to full-time studying.


    "So, I wanted to go shopping today, but... I also want to hear more dungeon stories."


    "Dungeon stories? I can only talk about the deeper levels, though."


    "That''s what''s so valuable! You''re the only person I know who can go that deep."


    "Isn''t it abnormal to know someone like that?"


    I don''t know if I''m the best person to say this, but... even S-rank explorers are rare. sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Now, even though she wants to hear dungeon stories... is there anything worth talking about? I could just tell her to watch my archive of Shibuya Dungeon streams for that. There''s no deep level in Takayama Dungeon, so maybe Sapporo Dungeon?


    "I''m personally curious about that Australian dungeon you mentioned before!"


    "...Oh, you mean the Alice Springs Dungeon?"


    Alice Springs is a town located in Northern Territory, near the center of the Australian continent. It used to have a population of less than 30,000, but thanks to the dungeon, it''s become more populated. The climate is typically Australian, with July being the coldest month and January the hottest. They have clear distinctions between summer and winter.


    "That dungeon has a unique terrain, so it''s pretty famous in the explorer community. It''s also popular with foreign streamers."


    "What''s it like?"


    Oh... Asakawa''s really into exploring dungeons now. Normally, if you start talking about Alice Springs Dungeon, most people would just respond with, "Oh, interesting." But she''s listening with her eyes lit up.


    "The main feature is that the dungeon is structured like a maze."


    "A maze?"


    "Yeah. From the top layer, it''s already set up like a web, with only one path leading down to the next floor. Monsters spawn along that path. And that structure continues all the way to the deeper levels."


    "Wow... There are so many different kinds of dungeons. I''ve only been to the regular ones, so I had no idea."


    She probably thinks of the Shibuya Dungeon as a "regular" dungeon, with its constantly changing terrain. But a dungeon with landscapes as varied as Shibuya''s is pretty rare. At least, that''s true for the deeper floors. The upper and middle levels are standard fare.


    "Wouldn''t it be fun to explore a maze?"


    "The issue is that there are so many corners, so you''re constantly at risk of a monster ambush. It''s considered one of the tougher dungeons."


    "Oh, right. But once you memorize the right path through the maze, it should be easy, right?"


    "That''s the thing¡ªthis dungeon is special. The layout of the maze changes periodically. So each time it does, local explorers have to go back in and solve the maze all over again."


    The constantly changing structure of Alice Springs Dungeon is a unique feature not found in other dungeons. When the maze changes, the Australian Explorers'' Association sends in many explorers to find the correct path to the lower levels. Some explorers even sell maps of the correct path at high prices. It''s impressive they come up with these ideas.


    "But Australia, huh... I heard the country wasn''t that developed before the dungeon appeared."


    "That''s kind of a misleading way to put it... But yeah, compared to other developed nations at the time, they were a bit behind."


    Previously, Australia''s developed cities were all on the coast. The central areas were plagued by desertification and extreme heat. Now, though, they don''t need massive power plants because magic stones can generate electricity, and places like Alice Springs can survive without needing to transport those stones.


    It''s like a local production and consumption model, which is how Alice Springs has managed to thrive.


    "Man, that sounds so cool... I want to explore dungeons all over the world someday."


    "Is that your dream?"


    "Yeah. I''m really getting into dungeon exploration."


    I''m glad to hear that.


    She''s come a long way from when she was stuck at the entrance of the lower floors. Having more explorers who are passionate like this can only be good for Japan.

 Chapter 62 - 62: A Guide Through Hachioji Dungeon

    "Yes."


    : Good morning.


    : "Yes?" That''s not a proper greeting.


    : At least greet us properly.


    : Now he''s even slacking on his greetings.


    : You know, people say that if you can''t even greet others... blah blah blah.


    : What''s this "blah blah blah" supposed to mean?


    : Even the viewers are being lazy with their comments.


    "Good morning."


    : Well done.


    : It''s impressive that you can reflect on your behavior.


    : Good job greeting us properly.


    : The comment section sounds like a senior citizen''s club, lol.


    : Is Kisaragi-kun in elementary school?


    : If I don''t greet the old folks in my neighborhood, they nag at me nonstop.


    : That just sounds like a grumpy old person, lol.


    Why are the viewers so strict about greetings? Maybe they''re trying to follow that whole "Always greet others politely" thing we learned in elementary school. If that''s the case, sorry, but I used to rebel against my teachers, so I don''t really get it. Thanks to all the time spent in dungeons, I haven''t had much contact with teachers in a while anyway.


    "As I announced, today''s stream is... half-forced..."


    "I''m collabing with him!"


    : Asagao-chan, good morning.


    : Wow, so energetic!


    : The energy difference between Kisaragi-kun and Asagao-chan, though.


    : Love this odd duo.


    : Long time no see.


    : So, no two-part stream today?


    "Nope, no two-part stream today! I''m just crashing Kisaragi-kun''s stream!"


    "Why are you so hyped up? You''re usually not this energetic."


    "Uh, I''m supposed to be a high-energy streamer, right?"


    Really?


    You just look like someone who''s always diving into dungeons and fighting monsters to me.


    : Asagao-chan normally?


    : She''s always high-energy when fighting monsters.


    : Yeah, she''s definitely energetic.


    : Wait... is Asagao-chan another EX-level fighter? sea??h th§× novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : A battle maniac, huh...


    : I already knew that.


    : Lol.


    : I was only focused on Kisaragi-kun, but now I''m curious about Asagao-chan. Gonna subscribe to her channel.


    "Oh, thanks for subscribing!"


    "Today, we''re heading to Hachioji Dungeon."


    "That''s fast! No more intro? No greetings or anything?"


    "Do we even do those on this channel?"


    : Nope.


    : I remember once, the stream just started deep in the dungeon without any intro, and then ended suddenly.


    : He always starts so abruptly.


    : I actually like how he jumps straight into the topic.


    "See? That''s how it is."


    "So that''s a ''style'' now?"


    Is having a streaming style really a thing?


    Whatever... Today, I''m here at Hachioji Dungeon with Asakawa. Even though I usually avoid this place, this is my third time here in a short period¡ªfirst because of the guild request, then the basic training stream with Aizawa-san, and now today. Even the receptionist at Hachioji Dungeon looked surprised to see me again.


    "So, summer vacation is almost over, but are you all keeping up with your homework?"


    : I''m not a student, actually.


    : Busy with work!


    : Ah, summer vacation... those were the days.


    : Isn''t this channel''s demographic a bit older?


    : Can''t help it.


    : Asagao-chan''s channel has a lot more students watching, though.


    : Nope, I haven''t done my summer homework.


    "Seems like your viewers are mostly working adults. Mine is more student-heavy... It''s kind of refreshing to see the difference."


    "I think it''s not just students, but also a fair number of full-time explorers. That''s my impression from reading the comments."


    : Bingo.


    : How do you even know that?


    : Full-time explorer here, diving into the lower floors.


    : C-rank explorer here.


    : I''ve been exploring the middle floors.


    : Kisaragi-kun''s audience is mostly full-time or part-time explorers, huh?


    I can''t really keep up with the English comments since I can''t read them, but they''re here too, enjoying the stream in their own way. Even my highlight videos get a fair amount of English comments.


    By the way, I have some officially approved clip channels. I don''t really care if people make clips without permission, but having a few official ones makes things easier.


    "So, today''s goal is to reach the lower floors of Hachioji Dungeon! Kisaragi-kun told me the lower floors are just like the middle floors, with good visibility and not too dangerous, so it''s a great place to explore!"


    "Why did you make me come along again...?"


    : You''re her mentor, so step up.


    : More like her chaperone, lol.


    : Lol.


    : People keep calling Kisaragi-kun Asagao-chan''s "chaperone," but I''ve never seen him help her in a stream.


    : Have you ever saved her during training in the lower floors?


    "Nope."


    I mean, I usually just take out any dangerous enemies before they even get close to her. Based on Asakawa''s current skills, I only let monsters she can barely defeat or handle slip through. Sure, she might be on the edge of dying, but you don''t get stronger unless you face tough challenges.


    With that settled, Asakawa said she wanted to fully explore the dungeon, so instead of summoning Kirin to quickly take us to the lower floors, we''re walking from the top, heading straight for the stairs. We''re taking out monsters with magic as we go. Unlike during the basic training stream, there aren''t that many monsters, so it really feels like the usual Hachioji Dungeon.


    "Wow, there really aren''t many monsters here. And the ground is totally flat."


    : Is this Asagao-chan''s first time in Hachioji Dungeon?


    : The first time here really is surprising.


    : It''s super safe, honestly, with the flat terrain and low monster count.


    : Agreed.


    : I sometimes go to Hachioji Dungeon to challenge tougher monsters.


    : It''s safe because you can see everything around you.


    The biggest advantage of Hachioji Dungeon, really. Because you can see so far ahead, it''s a safe place to explore, and that lets you face enemies you''d normally avoid head-on. It''s a great place to test your limits as an explorer. Of course, there''s always the risk of death when fighting stronger enemies, so you still have to be cautious.


    "Kisaragi-kun, you''ve only gone as far as the 45th floor in Hachioji Dungeon, right?"


    "Yeah... pretty much."


    "Why? You''re such a deep-floor junkie."


    Hey, what''s with "deep-floor junkie"? You''re making it sound like I''m obsessed with going to the deepest parts of dungeons and have no interest in anything else.


    I only explore the deeper floors because I have the skill to do so... though, okay, I do like the deep floors.


    : Kisaragi-kun is always diving into the deepest floors.


    : Why didn''t you go all the way to the bottom of Hachioji Dungeon?


    : Was there something weird down there?


    : Like monsters?


    : Or maybe the terrain?


    : If Kisaragi-kun can''t handle a monster, we''ve got a big problem.


    "The reason I didn''t go deeper...? Honestly, I just got bored halfway."


    : You''re no better than Kamishiro Rion, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Seriously...?


    : Do you realize you''re on the same level as Kamishiro Rion now?


    : Kindred spirits, apparently.


    Ugh... I can''t argue with that!

 Chapter 63 - 63: Inhuman Abilities on Full Display

    "By the way, I haven''t mentioned this yet, but... After I graduate from high school in March, I''ve decided not to go to college and get a job instead."


    : Is this really the place to announce that, on Kisaragi''s channel?


    : Wouldn''t it be better to say this on social media?


    : Lol.


    Knowing where she''s planning to work, I have a feeling this might stir up some drama... but I wonder.


    "Fufufu... I''m going to work for the company Kisaragi-kun is planning to start! I''ll be both a streamer and part-time office worker!"


    : This is going to make the anti-threads blow up again.


    : Kisaragi''s anti-thread is about to get even more heated.


    : Congrats on the job decision! (lol)


    : Nepotism hire!


    : Well, she''s a skilled streamer, so it makes sense.


    : What about Kamishiro-chan?


    "There''s no way I''d ever let her in."


    Why would I deliberately step on a landmine? Bringing her on as a streamer would only cause endless trouble. Since I''m going to be the CEO, there''s no way I''d recruit someone like her. A few collaborations here and there are more than enough.


    : Yep, makes sense.


    : We all saw that coming.


    : You just know she''d cause drama.


    : I can already picture her messing things up.


    : Even the viewers know how chaotic that would be, lol.


    "So, my career path survey answer is... employment!"


    "And I guess I''ll be the CEO?"


    "Pretty sure it counts as regular employment."


    : Career aspiration: CEO.


    : How dumb do you have to be?


    : Don''t write something weird like that and confuse your teachers.


    : Lol.


    : I''ve never seen someone write something so odd on a career survey.


    : It sounds like when kids write "I want to be a bride."


    Well, I guess it counts as regular employment... or maybe self-employment?


    As we continue chatting aimlessly, we walk through the Hachioji Dungeon, eventually reaching the entrance to the lower floors at the 41st level. Since there weren''t many monsters, it didn''t take nearly as long as it would in Shibuya Dungeon. As usual, we didn''t run into any other people.


    "...As always, this dungeon feels so empty."


    "The transportation is decent, but yeah..."


    : You can barely earn enough here to cover train fare and lunch, so yeah...


    : Hachioji Dungeon is basically a punishment.


    : No money, no change in scenery... it''s just dull.


    : The amount of small talk today was longer than usual.


    Well, there''s nothing much to do when heading toward the lower floors, so more chit-chat is inevitable. Today''s stream is probably going to be more of that. There just aren''t enough monsters in the lower floors to keep things action-packed.


    "Since I''ve been spending so much time in the lower floors of Shibuya Dungeon, the lower floors here feel... lonely."


    "But the monsters are still definitely lower-floor strength. They''re just weaker than those in Shibuya Dungeon."


    "Yeah... but it''s so open here."


    Hachioji Dungeon is famous for its barren, overly spacious terrain, which feels more like an open field than a dungeon. It''s so open that you can see everything around you with ease, and even though we''re underground, it''s as bright as if LED lights were illuminating the space. The brightness is probably because of the magical crystals embedded in the walls, glowing white.


    It feels more like a man-made underground experiment space than a natural dungeon.


    : You can see all the monsters in the area.


    : There''s a big Hound Dog over there.


    : Is that even still a Hound Dog?


    : That thing''s way too big.


    : Isn''t "Hound Dog" supposed to mean hunting dog? At that size, it''s more like a hunting beast.


    : But even though it''s bigger, it''s still just a regular Hound Dog.


    : What exactly is it hunting?


    : Humans, obviously.


    "Technically, it''s classified as a Hound Dog. Even if it''s huge."


    I don''t know much about monster classifications. Globally speaking, I doubt any country has fully researched monster biology or structure. It''s mostly because they turn into ash after being killed, leaving only a magic stone behind. With no bodies to examine, the only way to study them is through live capture, and you can only capture monsters up to the middle floors at best.


    "Has it noticed us?"


    "Since the area''s so open, just like we can see it, it can see us too."


    "That makes sense."


    "Well... It''s not a problem if all it does is run at us from that distance."


    Hound Dogs have incredible leg strength, and since their size already exceeds a human''s height, they''re probably running at speeds comparable to a car. But even at that speed, it''s running straight toward us, so as long as we see it, we can deal with it from a distance using magic.


    Asakawa forms her hand into the shape of a gun, concentrating magic at her fingertips. What''s surprising is that instead of compressing the magic after forming it, she compresses it right from the start. I wasn''t sure it was possible, but seeing her do it in front of me proves that it is.


    The beam of compressed lightning magic she fires pierces the Hound Dog''s head in an instant. The initial speed of compressed lightning magic is no joke.


    "Nice shot, huh?"


    "Yes, indeed."


    When it comes to magic, Asakawa is unbelievably precise. The other magic users I know are my grandmother, who relies on brute-force high-power magic, and Kamishiro, who just bulldozes through with sheer speed... so Asakawa seems especially refined by comparison.


    : Wow.


    : Asagao-chan has gotten so strong...


    : The Asagao-chan who used to barely survive the lower floors is gone now.


    : Has she finally crossed into the realm of the inhuman?


    : The first inhuman also used magic...


    "Who''s this ''first inhuman''... Wait, are you talking about me!?"


    : Yeah, of course.


    : What are you surprised about?


    : You''re the original "inhuman" on this channel.


    : So far, two inhuman beings have appeared on your stream, right?


    "What about Aizawa-san?"


    : He hasn''t shown his inhuman side yet, so he''s still safe.


    : Aizawa-san is definitely still human.


    : EX Salaryman is fine.


    Why are they so nice to Aizawa-san?


    Are most of the viewers just salarymen?


    Well, whatever. If the viewers ask for it, as the channel''s host, I guess I have to oblige. I''m not as skilled with magic as Asakawa, and I can''t match Kamishiro''s power, but... I can at least try compressing my magic.


    I''m better with wind magic than lightning, so I''ll compress wind and use it as a sharp blade, just like Kamishiro does.


    Without a sound, I use compressed wind to sever the head of another Hound Dog that was sneaking up behind us. The cut isn''t as clean and elegant as Kamishiro''s, but it''s enough to deal with a lower-floor Hound Dog.


    "How''s that?"


    : Yeah, you''re definitely abnormal.


    : Asagao-chan, the road to EX is long.


    : Seeing that just reminded me how crazy EX-level explorers are.


    : Do you have eyes on the back of your head?


    : Lol.


    : You don''t even need your shikigami to be OP.


    : And you can summon gods, too.


    Huh? S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I used magic because the viewers wanted to see it, and now I''m being called inhuman? EX explorers aren''t inhuman, they''re just considered exceptional among other explorers.


    Besides, shikigami can only use about a tenth of their summoner''s strength, so of course the summoner is stronger. And the gods I summon? That''s just borrowing power from "something else," so it doesn''t count as shikigami anyway.


    "Haha..."


    Asakawa, what''s with that awkward laugh?

 Chapter 64 - 64: Unseen Threats

    "The official deepest floor of the Hachioji Dungeon... If I remember right, it''s somewhere around the 60th floor. The progress stops right where it borders the deep layers, and no one bothers to go further because the dungeon isn''t profitable. So, the deepest floor never gets updated, and people just use the excuse that it''s not an important dungeon to avoid further exploration.


    Well, it really isn''t important, to be fair."


    Asakawa probably got interested in Hachioji Dungeon because I''ve been here a few times for streams and missions, so this might be the last time we dive into this place.


    "We''ve made it to the 45th floor... This is your first time here too, right?"


    "Yeah, for the past few floors. But... the monsters are few, and even when they show up, they''re weak, so it''s not fun at all."


    : Complaining about no monsters like a real battle maniac, huh?


    : But it really is boring, though.


    : It''s the truth.


    : Can''t help it.


    : It''s Hachioji Dungeon, after all.


    : Stop using Hachioji Dungeon as a synonym for boring.


    : Don''t talk trash about my local dungeon!


    : You should just take a train to Shibuya Dungeon, bro.


    Looks like the viewers are treating today''s stream as more of a casual chat session. Seriously, though, there''s nothing here in Hachioji Dungeon. Honestly, I''m a bit impressed someone made it to the 60th floor. They must be someone who lives just for the thrill of updating the deepest floor.


    I enjoy exploring unknown floors, but with a dungeon that stays this bland all the way down, I can''t bring myself to care enough to reach the bottom. Maybe if I run out of stream ideas, I''ll tackle the deepest floor.


    "Huh?"


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Uh... there''s a monster ahead, but..."


    A monster? I can''t see anything at all... What is Asakawa seeing?


    "It''s all hazy and hard to make out... It''s almost like it''s transparent?"


    : Asagao-chan, finally seeing ghosts?


    : Well, it is a dungeon.


    : Dungeons do have a high death count.


    : Haven''t heard of any ghost stories in dungeons, though.


    : People are too busy risking their lives to worry about ghosts in a dungeon.


    : True.


    : Has anyone even died in the lower floors of Hachioji Dungeon?


    : Probably not.


    : Lol.


    : This place is too much of a ghost town.


    "No, I''m serious, I can see it... for real."


    "Hmm."


    Now that I think about it, Asakawa has that unique ability to visually perceive magic. She described my magic as "serene" when we first met, so I have no idea what it looks like to her. But maybe there''s a being made entirely of magic out there.


    "Try attacking it."


    "O-Okay."


    Asakawa nods at my suggestion and conjures a small fireball in her hand, tossing it forward. It should''ve just hit the floor since nothing''s there... But before it could land, it looked like it hit an invisible wall and exploded mid-air.


    "It hit something!"


    Using the remnants of the flames as a guide, I immediately gather my magic and fire it like a flick. The magic projectile, packed with power, obliterates the ground of Hachioji Dungeon and reaches the edge of the floor in the blink of an eye.


    "...What?"


    : Huh?


    : I didn''t see a thing.


    : What just happened?


    : Did you just flick the air?


    : Was that a condensed magic blast?


    : It looked like an energy ball, similar to what EX Salaryman used but way more powerful.


    : The damage is a bit ridiculous, though.


    : Well, he is an EX.


    "So, how was that?"


    "I-It''s gone..."


    "So I guess we defeated it? No problems, then."


    "Only problems! That''s a big problem!"


    If the attack landed, then there''s no issue, right?


    It seems like the fireball hit something, leaving some sparks clinging to it. So, even if it''s a creature made of magic, physical interference is possible. That means it can be attacked¡ªand defeated.


    End of story.


    "This is why people call you an EX, you know?!"


    "Ehh..."


    Sure, an invisible enemy can be a threat, but is it really something to get worked up over?


    Or maybe Asakawa''s freaking out about how casually I fired off that magic blast. It''s just another form of magic manipulation¡ªconcentrating internal magic and launching it. It''s a pretty simple attack, even for people who aren''t great at magic... though it does require decent control of magic flow.


    : Asagao-chan is clearly one of us now.


    : Thank goodness for Asagao-chan''s common sense.


    : She''s our safety net.


    : Kisaragi, could you show some more concern?


    : An invisible enemy is a big deal!


    "I suppose so. But you wouldn''t die just from having your heart ripped out."


    "You''d die, right?"


    "No, you wouldn''t. You just have to put it back." S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You... you can''t just put it back."


    "You can, though."


    If you don''t, you''ll die, so you just have to focus and put it back. Once it''s back, heal the wound, and you''ll be fine. I haven''t done it on myself, but I''ve done it for someone else, so it''s no big deal.


    : ???


    : What?


    : Magic really can do anything, huh? (brain shuts down)


    : That''s not human behavior.


    "...Is that what the deep floors are like?"


    "That''s pretty much it. Didn''t it seem like that in my stream?"


    "Well... It just looked like you and Kamishiro-san were steamrolling through everything."


    "Really? Both of us were being extra careful during that stream."


    : That was careful?


    : Wasn''t that basically a casual chat stream?


    : It felt more like a walk in the park.


    : I don''t get it.


    : My brain refuses to comprehend this.


    : Don''t even try to understand... or your brain will go EX on you.


    : Lol.


    : Is EX some kind of virus?


    We were being careful. Usually, Kamishiro doesn''t hold back and tears through dungeons, collapsing them as she goes. The nickname "Dungeon Disaster" wasn''t for nothing.


    "...Anyway, this is the first time you''ve encountered this type of monster, right?"


    "Well, I didn''t see it, but yeah."


    "Don''t give me that."


    "Yeah, yeah... but it''s the first I''ve heard of such a monster."


    : First time hearing about this for me too.


    : How do you even fight something you can''t see?


    : Why could Asagao-chan see it?


    : Weird monster.


    : What did it look like?


    "It looked humanoid... About the size of a child, I guess."


    "Asagao-san can see magic itself, which is a rare trait... So, she can see things that you and I can''t. I''m not sure if it showed up on screen for the viewers, though."


    If a magic blast is enough to obliterate it, it''s not too dangerous, but an invisible enemy is still a pain to deal with. I guess I''ll report this to the association... Aizawa just lectured me the other day, after all.

 Chapter 65 - 65: Hachioji’s Last Stand

    "¡­Looks like we''re getting close to the 60th floor."


    "¡­Yeah."


    "¡­There''s really nothing here, huh?"


    "Knew it."


    : Hmm.


    : Not the best dungeon for a stream, huh?


    : Seriously, this dungeon is so boring.


    : No wonder it''s not popular.


    Both the viewers, Asakawa, and I are getting pretty tired of this dungeon. It was her curiosity that got us here in the first place, but we''ve made it close to the 60th floor with no problems. This dungeon is as barren as they say¡ªfew monsters, boring scenery, and little excitement. Even the viewer count is lower than usual. Yeah, maybe streaming in the Hachioji Dungeon wasn''t the best idea.


    "I was hoping for something more exciting, like a dragon... or some huge monster."


    "If you want that, you''ll need to dive into the deeper levels."


    "I don''t have the rank to go that deep!"


    "¡­Have you even applied?"


    "Not yet."


    : Sigh... of course.


    : She''s stalling.


    : Submitting those rank-up forms is such a pain.


    : I get her point, though.


    Sheesh. Exploration ranks don''t increase unless you submit the paperwork to the Association. It''s not automatic. Asakawa is stuck at C-rank because she hasn''t bothered to submit anything. For explorers, ranks don''t just go up without effort, unless you''re someone like me who was bumped straight to EX. But for Asakawa, going from C to B requires submitting forms to document her achievements.


    "But doing paperwork is such a hassle¡­ and then if I rank up to B, they''ll start sending me requests, right?"


    "That''s why many explorers stay at C-rank."


    Like I said before, the Association buys magic stones cheaply and then only starts offering paying requests to explorers once they reach B-rank. As a result, a lot of explorers avoid the hassle of ranking up. They don''t want the pressure or the calls for dangerous deeper-level exploration. If the government doesn''t do something about this issue, it''s not going to change anytime soon.


    "If there were more perks or something, it might be worth it."


    "There aren''t any. And they won''t lower your rank if you turn down government requests."


    A lot of explorers turn down the requests. But even if you repeatedly say no, the Association won''t lower your rank. They can''t afford to lose explorers when the numbers are already tight.


    Explorers think: "We''re risking our lives, pay us more."


    The government thinks: "We need more people, we''ll pay you, just help."


    Looking at the current state of things, it''s easy to tell who''s winning this argument.


    : How does the U.S. handle things?


    : I''ve heard Australia has more strict regulations.


    : Isn''t there international collaboration on this?


    : Seems like a mess between the government and explorers.


    : Being an explorer sounds tough.


    "The U.S.? It depends on the state. Australia, though, pays more for magic stones and has better benefits for explorers. So there''s not as much discontent over there."


    Australia is trying to keep its newfound status as a world power thanks to dungeons, so they''re handling things well. Since the appearance of dungeons, their economy has boomed, and their population has skyrocketed. Meanwhile, China struggled early on when their explorers weren''t strong enough. They pushed too hard, leading to many deaths and mass emigration.


    They''ve stabilized now, though, and are focusing on their economy outside of dungeons.


    "Oh, there''s the stairs. What do you think, Kisaragi? Should we head down to the 60th floor?"


    "¡­Honestly, I doubt there''s anything down there."


    "Yeah."


    : That quick answer tho.


    : Knew it.


    : We could end the stream here, honestly.


    : Or have Asagao fight some deep-level monsters.


    : Isn''t she C-rank? She''s not supposed to go that deep, right?


    : Technically, she''s allowed. They just can''t guarantee her survival.


    "Let''s head back!"


    Knew it.


    : Knew it.


    : Called it.


    : No results, lol.


    : Well, it was an experience.


    : Looks like we won''t be seeing the Hachioji Dungeon again in a stream.


    : This stream probably made it even less popular.


    There''s no fixing a boring dungeon. If it''s dull, it''s dull. Even if we made it to the deepest levels, all we''d get is more pointless wandering and uninteresting chit-chat. At this point, I''d rather just end the stream and do a regular Q&A back on the surface.


    "Alright, we''ll ride the kirin back!"


    "¡­Yeah, fine."


    : Thanks for the stream!


    : Good job today!


    : Stream''s over, huh?


    : Can we have a Q&A session before it ends?


    : Question time, please!


    : Thanks for the stream~


    Q&A session? In the Hachioji Dungeon? Is there even anything worth asking about?


    "You can ask anything¡­ but any inappropriate questions and you''re getting blocked."


    Why is Asakawa answering like she''s the channel host? Whatever, I guess.


    : How did Asagao do on her school tests?


    : Did you really make it to the 34th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon?


    : Do you watch anime, Asagao?


    : What''s your favorite game, Asagao?


    : Kisaragi, do you like baseball?


    : What do you think of Kamishiro?


    "My test scores?"


    "She ranked first in the whole grade for the end-of-term exams before summer."


    "How do you even know that?!"


    "You were talking about it loudly in class."


    : First in her grade? Wow.


    : Turns out she''s the smart kind of popular.


    : Popular kids are usually good at everything, huh?


    : I can relate.


    : I think we''ve debunked the idea that quiet kids are smarter, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Did you score 500?


    "489."


    : Excuse me? S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : What''s your brain made of?


    : I''m officially jealous.


    I feel that. I barely cracked the top 100 in my grade¡­ Asagao''s not just smart, she''s top-tier smart.


    "Next question!"


    ": Did you really get to the 34th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon?"


    "Yeah, that''s true."


    That dungeon is such a pain. I bailed at 34.


    : Wait, for real?


    : But the floors are flooded?!


    : Lol.


    : The mystery of the highest Nagoya Dungeon floor is solved.


    "How? I just used my shikigami to handle it, you know?"


    "Okay, next question."


    Uh, sure. I guess my handling of that dungeon isn''t exactly normal, so I''ll keep quiet.


    ": Do you watch anime? What''s your favorite game?"


    "I don''t watch much anime¡­ but I like action games."


    "Huh."


    She plays games? I always thought she''d be one of those high school girls who just hangs out on social media. Guess I''m out of touch with what teens are into these days. Me? I just dive into dungeons and play games. Don''t count me as one of the younger generation, please.


    "Next question."


    ": Kisaragi, do you like baseball?"


    "I do. Personally, I root for the team based in Kanagawa."


    : Ah, that team.


    : Didn''t expect that.


    : I thought you were just into dungeons and games.


    : Isn''t that enough? Lol.


    : Do you talk baseball with Kamishiro?


    "Yeah, we talk about it. She''s pretty into it too."


    "Alright, last one."


    ": What do you think of Kamishiro?"


    "This one''s for me?"


    Why ask me? I''ve already said enough about her on stream.


    "I''d say¡­ she''s my rival? I definitely don''t want to lose to her."


    "Oh? Because you''re close in age?"


    "Yeah. And we seem to like similar things."


    Do they, though? Kamishiro and Asagao seem like total opposites to me.


    : Uh-oh.


    : Territorial showdown incoming.


    : Careful, Kisaragi. Don''t get involved.


    : Let them handle it. You''re not known for your tact, lol.


    : The anti-threads are going to blow up after this.


    Wait, what?

 Chapter 66 - 66: Thread 8: Speculations and Streamer Showdowns!

    329: Anonymous Explorer


    Good job.


    330: Anonymous Explorer


    Today''s stream felt pretty empty, didn''t it?


    331: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s all because of that Hachioji Dungeon.


    332: Anonymous Explorer


    True that.


    333: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, it''s a fact, so what can you say?


    334: Anonymous Explorer


    Thanks for the stream. I bailed halfway through.


    335: Anonymous Explorer


    Can''t blame you.


    336: Anonymous Explorer


    The territory fight at the end was the only interesting part.


    337: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾336


    That part made the anti-thread explode. You really shouldn''t bring it up.


    338: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    339: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾336


    I love how all the unicorns collectively lose their minds.


    340: Anonymous Explorer


    That was some blatant teasing.


    341: Anonymous Explorer


    Teasing (and the streamer ended the broadcast still clueless).


    342: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s even funnier because the streamer didn''t even realize it.


    343: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, I''m more surprised that Kisaragi actually made it to the 34th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon.


    344: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, he''s not trying to sell himself as an idol, plus he''s still in high school. Let him do what he wants.


    345: Anonymous Explorer


    Do people actually have a serious crush on Asagao? She''s a high schooler, you know?


    346: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh, you''d be surprised... there are always weirdos like that.


    347: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t underestimate otakus. There are guys out there who seriously think they have a chance with Asagao. Those are the ones sending long creepy super chats.


    She''s not a virtual streamer though, so she doesn''t bother reacting to every super chat.


    348: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾347


    LOL, it''s like she''s rejecting them without saying anything.


    349: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾343


    I seriously don''t get it. How did he even get down there?


    350: Anonymous Explorer


    He just used his shikigami or something (according to him).


    351: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾345


    There are a ton of people with a serious crush on her.


    [Image]


    [Image]


    [Image]


    352: Anonymous Explorer


    Ugh, gross.


    353: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾351


    Put a warning on that. Don''t dump creepy letters from the anti-thread here.


    354: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s disgusting. I can''t even laugh.


    355: Anonymous Explorer


    No joke, that''s just nasty.


    356: Anonymous Explorer


    This is the tragic end of the "weak man."


    357: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾343


    He''s an EX, so he can probably breathe underwater or something (random guess).


    358: Anonymous Explorer


    Does he have gills or something?


    359: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi is secretly an amphibian?


    360: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s send him a reply and tell him to stream from the Nagoya Dungeon.


    361: Anonymous Explorer


    Can he even take a camera down there?


    362: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t seem like it.


    363: Anonymous Explorer


    Do magic stone cameras even have waterproofing?


    364: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾361


    £¾£¾362


    £¾£¾363


    A high-end camera should be fine even if it''s hit with water magic. I''m not sure about taking it underwater, though.


    365: Anonymous Explorer


    Doesn''t sound possible, LOL.


    366: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it impossible to explore down there in the first place?


    367: Anonymous Explorer


    Someone did make it to the 34th floor, though.


    368: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾367


    I checked the official record of deepest floors, and yeah, it says 34th floor. I laughed.


    369: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾368


    So we found the culprit.


    370: Anonymous Explorer


    How the heck did he manage that¡­?


    371: Anonymous Explorer


    This is beyond something you can even understand.


    372: Anonymous Explorer


    Unrelated stuff kept getting hyped up during today''s stream.


    373: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, Hachioji Dungeon was so boring that it basically became a casual chat stream.


    374: Anonymous Explorer


    But come to think of it, Kisaragi has only streamed from Shibuya Dungeon and Hachioji Dungeon, right? Kind of surprising.


    375: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾374


    Our sense of normal is warped from all the crazy deep floors we''ve seen. But yeah, most of the streams have just been from Shibuya Dungeon.


    376: Anonymous Explorer


    Is that so?


    377: Anonymous Explorer


    The lakes, deserts, volcanoes, and seas were all part of Shibuya Dungeon''s deep floors.


    378: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾377


    When you put it like that, Shibuya Dungeon sounds absolutely insane.


    379: Anonymous Explorer


    No wonder it''s still not fully cleared, even with all the people there.


    380: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, but most of those people are just streaming from the upper to middle floors.


    381: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi has really made dungeon streams popular, hasn''t he?


    382: Anonymous Explorer


    More and more high-ranked streamers have started popping up.


    383: Anonymous Explorer


    High-ranked (C-rank).


    384: Anonymous Explorer


    C is already considered pretty high-ranking, you know.


    385: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s an improvement now that there are more streams from the middle floors.


    386: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve noticed more lower floor streams lately too.


    387: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾386


    I think that''s thanks to Asagao.


    388: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion said she might start streaming soon, too.


    389: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾388


    Her streams would probably just be silent as she bulldozes through everything.


    390: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait¡­ I kind of want to see that.


    391: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really okay to let that woman stream without any filters?


    392: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi, when are you going to collab stream with Kaede Jinguji?


    393: Anonymous Explorer


    Collab¡­?


    394: Anonymous Explorer


    That''d be less of a collab and more of just having a guest.


    395: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾392


    Don''t sneak in trying to complete the EX collection!


    396: Anonymous Explorer


    EX collection, LOL. Only Kisaragi could pull that off, so do it.


    397: Anonymous Explorer


    Now I''m genuinely curious.


    398: Anonymous Explorer


    Me too.


    399: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s called the fastest explorer, but we don''t really know what her fighting style is like, do we?


    400: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s fast, right?


    401: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s a pretty vague answer. And we don''t really know about the salaryman''s (Ryou''s) style either.


    402: Anonymous Explorer


    He was pretty solid though, right?


    403: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾402


    There''s no way someone fights like that and goes into the deep floors.


    404: Anonymous Explorer


    He must use a different style when he heads into the deep floors.


    405: Anonymous Explorer


    EX streams are just the best.


    406: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s either a chill stream or a grind-fest.


    407: Anonymous Explorer


    And don''t forget the salaryman and the old guy who doesn''t even use social media.


    408: Anonymous Explorer


    "Salaryman," LOL.


    409: Anonymous Explorer


    I like how Kisaragi quickly announces his next streams.


    [Image]


    410: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾409


    "Next dungeon stream will be a collab with one of the people who sent a lot of collaboration requests."


    Who''s it gonna be?


    411: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s a collab request, it''s gotta be a famous streamer, right?


    412: Anonymous Explorer


    Didn''t he say he rejects carry-type collabs?


    413: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾409


    What if the collab partner is a girl? How will that go?


    414: Anonymous Explorer


    Depends on how famous they are.


    415: Anonymous Explorer


    Either way, the anti-thread''s gonna blow up.


    416: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread always blows up.


    417: Anonymous Explorer


    Even when he''s not streaming, the anti-thread is going wild.


    418: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s make bets on who the next collab partner will be.


    419: Anonymous Explorer


    Asagao-chan.


    420: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾419


    She just sent him a direct reply on Twitter instead of a message, though.


    421: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾418


    If it''s a dungeon streamer, could it be Panda?


    422: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾420


    Seriously? No wonder the anti-thread is always on fire.


    423: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾418


    My bet''s on Aikas.


    424: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾423


    No way. Annoying streamer Aikas is a no-go.


    425: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, no chance.


    426: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi''s more of a government-affiliated EX anyway, so there''s no way he''d collab with a troublemaker.


    427: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾418


    Here''s a wild guess: Torimo Sasanami.


    428: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾427


    That''s not even a dungeon streamer! LOL.


    429: Anonymous Explorer


    Please stop bringing up more controversy fodder.


    430: Anonymous Explorer


    Controversy (the anti-thread''s favorite pastime).


    431: Anonymous Explorer


    If the VTuber community joins the anti-thread, it''s going to be a mess.


    432: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾431


    Isn''t it already? Whether more unicorns show up or not, it won''t make a difference.


    433: Anonymous Explorer


    It won''t be a virtual streamer. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    434: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably someone who''s struggling to gain traction, right?


    How about Muscle Glasses?


    435: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾434


    Who the heck is Muscle Glasses? LOL.


    436: Anonymous Explorer


    Who even is Muscle Glasses?


    437: Anonymous Explorer


    Muscle Glasses


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    [Video]


    438: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh, interesting.


    439: Anonymous Explorer


    Definitely struggling (judging by the numbers).


    440: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m betting on Kanacon.


    441: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾440


    Who''s that?


    442: Anonymous Explorer


    I have no idea who these streamers are.


    443: Anonymous Explorer


    To be fair, there aren''t that many famous dungeon streamers.


    444: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s a famous collab, maybe it''s that validation-hungry streamer?


    445: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾444


    Nope, didn''t they have a Twitter meltdown over Kisaragi?


    446: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    447: Anonymous Explorer


    "Validation-hungry streamer" is their official title now, huh?


    448: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾440


    [Retired Salaryman]Konkon ch.


    Kanacon


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    449: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾448


    I think I''ve seen that before.


    450: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, I remember seeing that account trending on social media a bit.


    451: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾448


    Big boobs and a big axe, right? (blunt)


    452: Anonymous Explorer


    Oh yeah, now I remember! That''s the laid-back big sister type (who annihilates goblins with a two-handed axe).


    453: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    454: Anonymous Explorer


    So much for goblin rape fantasies in ero doujinshi, huh? (dead inside)


    455: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, this is it, huh?


    [Video]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    456: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾455


    That''s some true annihilation going on there, LOL.


    457: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾455


    First, I was looking at the boobs, then her axe skills, and then... yeah, it made me wince.


    458: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s on you, LOL.


    459: Anonymous Explorer


    No matter who Kisaragi collabs with, it''s bound to be interesting.


    460: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s interesting enough on his own.


    461: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾460


    Wait, is that a compliment?


    462: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably not.


    463: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    464: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, is the next collab going to be at Nagoya Dungeon?


    465: Anonymous Explorer


    No, it''s not, LOL.


    466: Anonymous Explorer


    If it were, I''d be terrified.


    467: Anonymous Explorer


    That collab would get canceled real quick.


    468: Anonymous Explorer


    I personally want Asagao-chan or Kamishiro-chan to collab with him again.


    469: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s what''s "normal" to you?


    470: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve been brainwashed.


    471: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾421


    I like Panda too. It''d be cool to see a collab.


    472: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda?


    473: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda''s skill level is... lacking.


    474: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda''s a D-rank, right? Kanacon is E, so it''s not too far off.


    475: Anonymous Explorer


    Here are the guest rankings for Kisaragi''s streams so far:


    Asagao "C"


    Kamishiro Rion "EX"


    Aizawa Ryosuke "EX"


    Who''s next?


    476: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾475


    At this point, Asagao-chan is the odd one out.


    477: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    478: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾472


    Dou Dou Ling Ling


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    [Video]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    By the way, people call her "Panda" because her name sounds like it.


    479: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾478


    Thanks.


    Her fan nickname is so random, though.


    480: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s fine, she''s a panda, after all.


    481: Anonymous Explorer


    She''s cute, like a panda.


    482: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda''s a dude, though.


    483: Anonymous Explorer


    Dou Dou Ling Ling sounds a lot like a panda, I get that ¡û Makes sense.


    Let''s just call her Panda ¡û Huh?


    484: Anonymous Explorer


    You don''t get it?


    485: Anonymous Explorer


    Recently, Panda''s been using black-and-white designs too, so it''s fine.


    486: Anonymous Explorer


    Everyone''s just going along with it, LOL.


    487: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t care who, I just want to see Kisaragi dive into the deep floors again.


    488: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no way he''d do that in a collab stream.


    489: Anonymous Explorer


    If he did, it''d be a total disaster.


    490: Anonymous Explorer


    If he collabs with someone who can handle the deep floors, it''d be hilarious anyway.


    491: Anonymous Explorer


    What, is this guy invincible?


    492: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s what you call a Kisaragi fanboy.


    493: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it okay to have a fanboy who laughs at everything?


    494: Anonymous Explorer


    Of course! Kisaragi''s streams are always super chill!

 Chapter 67 - 67: A Streamers Dilemma: More Than Just Dungeons

    "Guess it''s about time I start doing things that feel more like a streamer than just an explorer."


    : I don''t care?


    : What''s this guy talking about all of a sudden?


    : Starting a stream out of nowhere and now he''s saying weird stuff.


    I decided to start a casual chat stream from home for the first time in a while. While I am technically a dungeon streamer, I figured constantly streaming dungeon runs might get a little old. So, on a whim, I decided to set up a chill chat stream. There weren''t many viewers, considering it was an unannounced stream with no dungeon action, but a decent number of people still dropped by.


    It felt different from my usual streams; this time, it was just me, the screen, and the chat.


    Honestly, sometimes it feels like I''m not really connecting with the viewers. Sure, we dive into dungeons, and that''s exciting for them, but I never really get the chance to just... talk. It''s almost like people only want to see me fight or explore and not actually engage with me outside of that. But there''s more to streaming, right? Or at least, there should be.


    "I mean, I could do a game stream or something, or maybe even meet up with viewers?"


    : Where would that be?


    : Probably the Shibuya Dungeon.


    : Dungeon meetup LOL.


    : Isn''t that just a dungeon stream?


    : Alright, let''s have a meetup on the 70th floor of Shibuya Dungeon!


    : That''s in the middle of the desert though.


    "No, not in a place like that¡­ I mean just hanging out, you know?"


    : He wants to try new things at his age?


    : He''s a high schooler after all.


    : You could do a study stream, ya know?


    : Especially since it sounds like he''s not getting much studying done.


    That''s not it.


    I''m sure the viewers are probably just thinking, "as long as he keeps diving into the deep floors, that''s all we need," but I want to do more... y''know, high school youth stuff! It feels like every day I''m either in a dungeon or prepping to go into one. Is that all there is for me?


    Don''t get me wrong, dungeons are great, and the adrenaline from battling monsters is awesome, but sometimes, I just want to... do something normal.


    : If you want to have a youthful experience, don''t rely on your viewers.


    : Go to school.


    : Join a club or something.


    : Make some friends.


    : Can we even make friends?


    : Nope.


    : Just give up on the whole youth thing.


    : Dungeons are part of youth too, man.


    : They''ve already given up on you LOL.


    : You''re one of us.


    "...I''ll just play some mobile games then."


    : He''s pouting.


    : LOL.


    : Haha, this is hilarious.


    : I''ll play too.


    : Props for logging in every day, at least.


    : As a corporate drone, I''m also just here for my daily login.


    : Use your vacation days to game properly.


    "Feeling annoyed, so I''m going to drop 100k yen on gacha and pull some characters."


    : Whoa.


    : Showing off that wallet power.


    : Don''t go smacking people with your cash.


    : Man, I''m jealous.


    : Must be nice.


    : So, if I dive into a dungeon, I can pull gacha whenever I want?


    : Don''t even think about it, seriously.


    It''s my money, so I can spend it however I want. Besides, I''ve got more than enough, so if I blow it on gacha, I''m just helping stimulate the economy, right? I say that to justify it as I pull until I get full character unlocks. That''s how it is these days ¨C I have more money than I know what to do with, and gacha games are my guilty pleasure. I mean, what else am I supposed to do with it?


    Dungeons have made me pretty well-off. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "So, what exactly do streamers do?"


    : I dunno.


    : Momo-niku does game streams, mostly.


    : Kisaragi only introduced me to Momo-niku, so I wouldn''t know.


    : What do streamers even do, though?


    : There''s not much besides chatting or playing games, right?


    : Not really.


    "Would game streaming be fine? I''ve got all the latest consoles."


    I do post those achievement badges you get for completing games on social media sometimes, and each time I get a decent amount of reactions. It''s proof I''m becoming more well-known, I guess. Even my random daily tweets get a lot of responses. I guess that''s the upside of having a following.


    But sometimes I wonder, do people follow me for the dungeons, or is it just because they''re hoping I''ll reveal something more personal? It''s a bit unsettling, honestly.


    "People have been telling me to set up a Q&A box for viewer questions, but won''t that just get spammed?"


    : Yeah, it usually gets spammed.


    : Either way works, I think.


    : Just open up donations.


    : Let people donate to get their questions answered.


    : Having a question box is convenient, but it has its downsides.


    "Huh... well, I don''t need donations. I''ve got enough money."


    : LOL.


    : That reason is hilarious.


    : Just streaming for fun, huh?


    : I guess that''s how it is.


    : Makes sense since diving into deep floors is way more profitable.


    : Stop, this is killing me from laughter.


    I mean, at this point, would it even matter if I started taking donations or ad revenue from streams? I''d much rather just take on some quests from the association and dive into dungeons. Getting money from viewers feels a bit... you know? It''s weird to think about people paying me just to talk or answer questions.


    I''m already making more than enough from dungeon quests, and there''s something about accepting money from viewers that just feels... off.


    "Alright, let''s roll some gacha and answer some questions while we''re at it."


    : Been waiting for this.


    : I''ve got a ton of questions ready.


    : Mainly about Nagoya Dungeon.


    : That''s a forbidden topic, dude.


    : LOL.


    : What the heck is going on there?


    "Ah, I knew it. You guys were discussing Nagoya Dungeon on some forum or something, right? I suddenly got flooded with replies about it."


    : We were shocked too!


    : This gave me a headache.


    : I couldn''t sleep because I was thinking about it!


    : Dude, you caused an entire thread dedicated to Nagoya Dungeon to pop up!


    : Surprised it didn''t exist already LOL.


    : There were a few scattered threads, but now it''s official.


    Ugh¡­ I don''t know how to respond to that.


    "Alright, shoot your questions. Ask anything, I''ll just pick out the ones I feel like answering."


    : How did you get to the 34th floor of Nagoya Dungeon?


    : Why did you stop at the 34th floor?


    : What''s Nagoya Dungeon like inside?


    : Are you ever going to reach the bottom of Hachioji Dungeon?


    : What''s your favorite game genre?


    : Kisaragi, do you like girls with big boobs?


    : Do EX explorers gather regularly?


    : Any tips on controlling magic?


    : Recommend any good blacksmiths?


    : Tell us about foreign dungeons.


    : Why don''t you have any friends?


    "That''s a lot."


    : You said anything goes!


    : Now answer!


    "Alright, I''ll try¡­ I got to the 34th floor of Nagoya Dungeon using my shikigami. There''s no way to breathe underwater, and there''s proper water pressure too, so it''s a total nightmare of a dungeon. As for why I turned back at the 34th floor, it just took too long. I do want to challenge deeper floors someday, though."


    : There''s water pressure too?


    : I didn''t even think about going there, so I had no idea LOL.


    : So, it''s just time-consuming?


    : Makes sense why the government hasn''t been able to crack it.


    : There''s rare metals down there though...


    : Yeah, even though magic stones made rare metals less in demand, they''re still valuable.


    "As for Hachioji Dungeon''s bottom floors¡­ I''d probably just get bored, so I''ll leave that to others. My favorite game genres are action and RPGs, I guess? I tend to enjoy the more mainstream stuff."


    : Stop slacking on your responsibilities!


    : Action games are awesome.


    : The graphics in action games have gotten so much better lately.


    : Turn-based RPGs are on the decline.


    : Sad but true.


    : They''re only popular in Japan these days.


    "We don''t have EX gatherings, but there are occasional meetups for B-rank and higher. It''s more like strategy meetings with the association. By the way, I''ve never seen Kamishiro show up to one of those."


    : LOL.


    : Figured as much.


    : Makes total sense.


    : Stop dodging the boob question!


    : What about boobs???????


    : He''s evading!


    Shut up.


    Why would I need to talk about my preferences with viewers? I''m a high school boy, you know? Talking about that kind of stuff is embarrassing.


    "I''ll probably set aside a stream for foreign dungeon stories sometime¡­ maybe. As for magic control, it really depends on the person. And for blacksmiths, I''d say stick with the big-name companies. As for why I don''t have friends¡­ I''d like to know that too."


    : That''s so sad.


    : Friends? What are those?


    : Never had friends.


    : Why are you making this so depressing?


    : Set that stream up soon.


    : I wanted to hear more about foreign dungeons.


    "Alright, I got the maxed-out character, so I think it''s time to end the stream."


    : LOL, quietly threw a lot of money at that gacha.


    : He''s just casually dumping so much money into this game, it''s hilarious.


    : This is what a whale looks like.


    : It''s not about skill, just money power.


    : Haha, please don''t ever play PvP games.


    : Seems like he likes busty characters.


    : High school boys will always lose to boobs, huh?


    : That''s just how it is.


    PvP games aren''t my thing anyway, so I don''t care. Besides, it''s my money, and I''ll use it however I want. And stop trying to analyze my preferences, geez.


    "¡­Alright, I''m logging off now."


    : Thanks for the stream!


    : Looking forward to the next collab.


    : Good job!


    : Take care.


    : See you next time!


    Chatting with viewers without any real purpose is surprisingly fun. Maybe next time, I''ll just stream while reading random news online and talking about whatever comes to mind.

 Chapter 68 - 68: Kanakons Big Leap

    As summer break was heading into its latter half, and my classmates were busy preparing for their upcoming entrance exams, I was casually chopping off monsters'' heads. Recently, I''d been relying too much on my shikigami for fighting, so today I was wielding a sword myself and taking on the monsters. Well... it''s not for fun this time. I''m here for work.


    Fighting as an explorer has pretty much become my job at this point. It doesn''t feel like something I can do purely for fun or out of curiosity anymore. Still, I think I really do enjoy diving into dungeons. Though there are places like Hachioji Dungeon, which are painfully boring.


    "Phew..."


    Today''s task was to take down a powerful monster that appeared in the lower floors of the Shibuya Dungeon. But lately, I''ve been feeling a little weird going into dungeons without streaming. It seems like I''ve gotten pretty addicted to dungeon streaming, whether it''s watching or doing it myself.


    [Thank you for accepting my collaboration invitation.]


    [I''ll do my best not to drag you down, even though I''m still inexperienced.]


    [The date can be adjusted to fit your schedule, so please let me know when you''re available.]


    After getting home from work, I noticed a notification on my phone. It was from the person I''d agreed to collaborate with. Honestly, maybe she''s being too formal, or maybe that''s just how I think because I''m still just a clueless high school student.


    But in reality, I''ve been keeping an eye on her as a dungeon streamer for a while now. If we''re talking pure talent, I think she''s on par with Asakawa-san. Of course, I won''t know for sure until I see her live, but I don''t think she''s someone who should be stuck in the upper floors.


    This isn''t like trying to mimic Aizawa-san, but... as an EX-ranked explorer and someone who''s been running beginner lectures on streaming, it feels like helping raise the level of dungeon explorers is part of my job.


    [Thanks for your message.]


    [I think I can clear my schedule for the day after tomorrow. Would that work for you?]


    "Shibuya Dungeon, right?"


    Since she''s been streaming from Shibuya Dungeon most of the time, the collab will probably be there. Honestly, streaming the upper floors on my channel might feel refreshing.


    [That works for me.]


    [Let''s meet at Shibuya Dungeon at 9 AM, the day after tomorrow. Sound good?]


    [That''s perfect. Looking forward to it.]


    Looks like everything''s set... When I collaborated with Asakawa-san, we made the plans in person. And Kamishiro-san just sort of followed me around. With Aizawa-san, I casually invited him. So this kind of formal scheduling feels a bit tense. It''s not that I dislike it, but...


    I hope it goes well. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With a bit of nervousness, I went about my day until the agreed-upon date arrived, and I headed over to Shibuya Dungeon.


    "Um... Kisaragi-san?"


    "Oh, good morning, Kanakon-san."


    "Y-Yes!"


    This is my collab partner for today... an E-ranked explorer, Kanakon-san.


    Apparently, much like Aizawa-san, she left her salary job to pursue a full-time career as an explorer, but things didn''t work out. Now, she''s turned to streaming, hoping to boost her income from ads. But it seems like she''s struggling with that as well.


    "My name''s Kanako Miyamoto."


    "I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa... though, I guess you already know that."


    "Y-Yes... I wasn''t sure if you used your real name."


    Kanakon-san¡ªMiyamoto-san¡ªinitially had a solid start as a streamer. And, well, let''s just say her... "generous assets" paired with a soft-spoken, gentle voice and an easygoing personality really helped her stand out. As a dungeon streamer, her image of swinging around a massive two-handed axe made a big impact, and for a while, she was trending on social media. She managed to gain a decent following.


    But it seems like she reached out to me for this collab because, just like with Asakawa-san, she hopes to get stronger rather than just boosting her numbers. In other words, she''s more interested in improving her skills than in a mere collab.


    That''s fine by me. The latter''s more important than the collab anyway.


    "Is it alright if I teach you everything on-stream?"


    "Y-Yes, that''s fine!"


    She''s a bit nervous... but she should be okay. She''s been streaming regularly, after all.


    By the way, she streams under the name "Konkon Channel" because she wears a fox mask to hide her face. The name "Konkon" comes from the fox mask, and her real name Kanako Miyamoto, hence "Kanakon." It''s kinda cute, considering she''s a former salarywoman.


    "Good morning... Quite a crowd today."


    : Well, of course.


    : You gave a heads-up this time.


    : This time.


    : Still bitter about how you usually stream out of nowhere LOL.


    : Can''t blame ''em.


    : Only jobless people can keep up with your usual stream times.


    "It''s summer vacation, after all."


    "Whoa... that''s a lot of viewers..."


    : Huh?


    : Is the collab partner already here?


    : I heard a girl''s voice!


    : UNFORGIVABLE...


    : You''ve betrayed us!


    : EX-''us'' has been disgraced!


    "Wait, since when have I been called ''EX-us''?"


    Apparently, my nickname has evolved without me knowing?


    Am I getting trashed on message boards behind my back?


    "Well, anyway, today''s collab is with Kanakon-san."


    "Y-Yes! Pleased to meet you!"


    : Cute.


    : Is this the first legit beauty on Kisaragi''s channel?


    : Finally, a normal person.


    : Good choice.


    : I don''t know her, but I bet she''s adorable.


    : Kanakon-chan, do your best!!


    "Wow, I see some of my viewers here too. Thank you for watching."


    "So... as I said, today''s a collab with Kanakon-san. Just like I did with Asakawa-san, I''ll be teaching her some combat techniques."


    "Y-Yes! I''ll do my best, Sensei!"


    : Ohhh.


    : So you''re in ''mentor mode.''


    : Yeah, teaching suits you better.


    : Not really a regular collab guy.


    : Dungeon streaming is your calling.


    : You were born for this, man.


    : Kanakon-chan''s about to get a serious power boost.


    : I''ve seen her name on social media before.


    With her fox mask and large two-handed axe, "Kanakon" has made quite a name for herself. Some of the viewers seem familiar with her, and I noticed a few comments about spotting her on social media. That''s how I first saw her too¡ªher talent caught my eye immediately.


    "Alright... let''s aim to get you into the middle floors by the end of today."


    "Wait, wh-what?! Really?!"


    : Huh?


    : LOL.


    : Wait, is he planning to take her from E-rank to D-rank in one day?


    : Is that even possible?


    : LOL.


    : This is basically Dungeon Basics 2.0.


    : Hilarious.


    By the way, I''m dead serious.


    I don''t see why someone with her talent is stuck in the upper floors, which is why I accepted her collab request in the first place.

 Chapter 69 - 69: Kanakon’s Awakening

    "As a starting point, Kanakon-san, is it safe to say that you''re not good with handling magic?"


    "Y-Yes¡­ I don''t really understand the concept of ''building up magical energy.''"


    : I can relate.


    : That''s why I gave up being an explorer.


    : It''s tough since you can''t physically see magic.


    : It''s like being told to ''build up your blood flow''¡ªmakes no sense.


    : If only there were a simple manual for that.


    : Can''t someone figure that out?


    This is actually a pretty common issue. In the modern era, it''s normal for humans to be born with magical energy circulating within their bodies. Whether consciously or unconsciously, everyone circulates magic in their daily lives. To wield magic, explorers must control this circulating energy at will.


    For dungeon explorers, magic is the only means of fighting monsters without any weapons at hand.


    "It seems like you''re not good at building up magical energy, but you''re quite good at circulating it inside your body, right?"


    "Huh¡­ you can tell just by looking at me?"


    "No, I know that your physical abilities aren''t something that can be explained by just athletic skills."


    To put it bluntly, Miyamoto-san has no talent for using magic. She might be able to solidify some basic magic and fire it off in a straight line, but she won''t be able to transform magic into another element like Asakawa-san or Kamishiro-san. However, that doesn''t mean she can''t handle magic at all.


    While she may not be able to "build" magical energy, she is adept at circulating it within her body. This skill, though not magic in the strict sense, can explosively enhance physical abilities by circulating the magical energy inside her.


    : Wait, is there a difference between magic control and circulation?


    : Aren''t they the same thing?


    "What I taught during the basic course was magical control. That''s about covering your body with magical energy to increase your hardness, but circulating magic inside your body is what enhances your physical abilities."


    : Why didn''t you teach both in the basic course?


    : Shouldn''t you include that as well?


    : So, there''s a difference between just getting harder and getting stronger.


    : It''s all about intentionally making yourself stronger, huh?


    : What about the basics?


    "I didn''t teach it because it''s actually a pretty advanced technique."


    : ?? Huh??


    : Wait, they''re different?


    "Controlling magic is like me telling you to ''make yourself sweat intentionally.'' Most people would understand that they need to warm up their bodies through physical activity."


    : Yeah, makes sense.


    : So?


    "Circulating magic is like telling someone to ''increase their blood flow on the spot without moving or using any tools.''"


    : That''s impossible!


    : Yeah, no way.


    : LOL


    "Exactly. This is something you can only manage through innate ability... Although I do know a few people who''ve learned it through sheer effort."


    It''s a bit complicated, but that''s the gist of it. Technically speaking, they''re entirely different, but as long as it''s understood, that''s fine. The focus today is on how to help Miyamoto-san get stronger.


    "Since you seem to have a knack for circulating magic, Kanakon-san, you should be able to handle the lower floors with ease once you''re used to it."


    "I- I can do that?"


    "You totally can."


    Dungeon explorer ranks don''t have strict criteria like "achieve this and you''ll reach C-rank." However, as a general guideline, an explorer ranked E should be able to take on multiple goblins at once without getting hurt. Meanwhile, someone ranked C, like Asakawa-san, should be able to take down a wyvern solo.


    Currently, Kanakon-san is ranked E, so she''s at the level where she can easily wipe out groups of goblins. To move up to D-rank, she''d need to be able to hold her own against the strongest monsters of the middle floors, like wyverns, and have the association acknowledge her abilities.


    With that in mind, we''ve made our way to the 20th floor, right on the boundary between the upper and middle floors of the Shibuya Dungeon.


    Even though this is technically still the upper floors, the monsters here are about as strong as those in the middle floors. Not many people are around... but it''s also a weekday morning.


    "Alright, let''s start by taking down some monsters, just as usual."


    "Y-Yes!"


    : Don''t be too nervous.


    : It''s still the upper floors, so you''ll be fine.


    : Yeah, but having way more viewers than usual is probably nerve-wracking.


    : True, I''d be nervous too with that many people watching.


    : Same here.


    : How does Kisaragi even stay so calm?


    : He''s pretty laid-back, for better or worse.


    : That''s just who he is.


    Honestly, I don''t even pay attention to how many people are watching. I started streaming just to record my dungeon dives and interact with normal people. These days, I do try to be more mindful of my audience, but at the core, that hasn''t changed.


    As we wander around the 20th floor, two steel ants crawl out from the corridor ahead. Steel ants are large but still exhibit the usual ant-like behavior¡ªwhen threatened, they call for reinforcements. The key strategy is to take them down before they can summon help.


    "Let''s start with the usual approach."


    "Okay¡­ Here I go!"


    With a shout of determination, Miyamoto-san hefts the dark, gleaming two-handed axe she carries and takes a powerful step forward. By circulating her magical energy and enhancing her physical abilities, her footsteps leave visible imprints on the dungeon floor.


    : Fast!


    : Wait, what?


    In no time, she closes the distance, landing a brutal strike before the steel ants even register her as a threat. Her aim is precise, cleaving through the joint between the ant''s head and body, rendering one of the ants immediately incapacitated.


    "Haah!"


    Without missing a beat, she swings her axe again, this time slicing through the hard exoskeleton of the second ant, dismembering it.


    : Terrifying.


    : Yikes.


    : I thought she was just "big in the chest."


    : I''m sorry for underestimating her.


    : She''s way stronger than expected.


    : Yeah, now it really doesn''t make sense why she''s still in the upper floors.


    : This time, I think Kisaragi''s right.


    See?


    When you take a closer look, you can''t help but wonder why someone with her strength is still stuck in the E-rank. She has the power to easily tear through the steel ant''s armor, so why is she still in the upper floors? S§×arch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    However, it seems like her knowledge about monsters is a bit lacking. She lets out a sigh of relief without realizing that the first ant, whose head she severed, is still moving.


    "That''s dangerous, you know."


    "Huh?"


    Steel ants are, after all, ants. Insects can keep moving even when decapitated, and the steel ant is no exception. Just because its head is severed doesn''t mean it''s dead. As the ant tries to emit a danger signal, I release a burst of magic to blow its head to pieces.


    "It''s standard practice to make sure you crush a steel ant''s head. If you don''t, they''ll keep summoning more indefinitely."


    : Yup, learned that the hard way.


    : Got close to dying because of it.


    : Seriously, those things are a nightmare.


    : Steel ants¡­ yeah, I''ve got trauma from them.


    : Didn''t someone say getting bitten by them only causes redness?


    : Yeah, that someone was the host of this channel.


    That was a long time ago¡ªdon''t remind me.


    For beginner explorers, steel ants are tough opponents. I learned that lesson the hard way too.

 Chapter 70 - 70: A-Rank Party with an E-Rank Heart

    "Honestly, I think you''re more than ready for D-rank as you are now."


    "R-Really?"


    : I agree.


    : Hmm.


    : If she can wipe out Steel Ants like that, isn''t that enough?


    : Yeah, seems like it.


    : But you have to file for it, right?


    : You have to write the paperwork and submit it to the association.


    "Of course, you''ll still need to build up your track record. Like, how many magic stones you''ve collected and things like that."


    Well, if she collects about 20 Steel Ant magic stones in a day, I think that would be more than enough to prove her worth. I mean, I went from E-rank straight to EX, so I''m not too familiar with the process of ranking up to D.


    From what I understand, the association''s benchmark for D-rank is being able to take on a wyvern, the strongest monster in the middle floors, and hold your ground. If that''s the case, I think Miyamoto-san already has the skill. It might just come down to perfecting basic movements and refining the efficiency of her magic circulation.


    "Do you think if I just recommended you, you''d easily get bumped to D-rank?"


    : Can you do that?


    : Does EX come with that privilege?


    : How do you not know this?


    : Isn''t that super easy if you can just recommend her?


    "Maybe¡­ but if I had that power, I''d probably get a lot of people asking for recommendations."


    : Fair point.


    : Hey, can you recommend me for D-rank too?


    : LOL


    : Just throw me a recommendation for EX while you''re at it.


    : Don''t push it, dude.


    : Haha, not even funny as a joke.


    I might try asking the association when I get back... It''s kind of ridiculous that she''s still E-rank with that strength. If that doesn''t work, I could ask for help from the guild.


    Honestly, there''s nothing more I can teach her on the upper floors. She needs to move on to the middle floors if she''s going to progress, and I''ll do what I can to help her get there.


    : Why not just form a party?


    : You can file a party application, right?


    : Have you soloed so much you forgot about party ranks?


    : LOL


    : B-B-B-Bachelor!


    : Stop attacking us from all directions!


    : You could easily hit D-party rank if you teamed up with EX.


    "Oh, right..."


    : He seriously forgot about it, huh?


    : Wow¡­


    : LMAO


    : You really should team up more often.


    : You''re always diving solo, that''s why.


    Now that I think about it, there is such a thing as party ranking, huh?


    To enter the upper floors, you need at least F-rank, and for the middle floors, you need D-rank. But it doesn''t have to be your individual rank¡ªit can be a party rank, too.


    Party ranks aren''t an average of the members'' ranks; they''re calculated based on the highest-ranking member''s reliability. If an EX like me teamed up with an E-rank like Miyamoto-san... we''d probably get a B or even A-rank. Just because I''m overpowered.


    "Let''s head back to the entrance and file a party application."


    "Y-Yeah, let''s do that."


    Man, I had totally forgotten about party ranks. To be fair, I''ve hardly ever been in a party. The last time I teamed up with someone was probably when my grandmother dragged me through the lower floors despite my low rank.


    "And so, Kanakon-san and I are now in a party. Our party rank is A."


    : LOL


    : A-rank party with an E-rank member? (Confused)


    : Walking tactical nuke over here.


    : One-man army!


    : This stream is comedy gold.


    : I was only here for Kanakon, but this is too funny¡ªsubscribed!


    : This guy is something else. LOL


    "Now we can head to the middle floors... or even the lower floors."


    "Y-Yeah... I guess so..."


    Technically, you need to be A-rank or higher to enter the lower floors. Since our party rank is A, I could technically take Miyamoto-san all the way down there. But, of course, I''m not going to drag her into a place like that¡ªit''s way too unpredictable.


    Still, I wonder if she chose this path because of the current trend of skipping traditional employment. It''s becoming more common for people to make a living through streaming and other unconventional means. Maybe I should ask her directly.


    "So, Kanakon-san, how old are you? You seem really young."


    "Eh? I-I''m... 24 this year."


    "Wow, that''s young."


    : Don''t say that as a high schooler, dude.


    : You sound like an old man.


    : You''re younger than her, come on.


    : Still, 24 is young.


    "Did you graduate college and go straight into streaming? But I thought you said you left a corporate job."


    "Well... I''m not sure if it qualifies as ''leaving a corporate job,'' but... after I graduated college, I got a job at a company... and it turned out to be a black company."


    "Oh..."


    : Oh no.


    : Yikes.


    : I see where this is going.


    : We all know what that means.


    : For once, Kisaragi and the chat are on the same page.


    : It''s a rare moment of understanding.


    "That''s when I remembered how I used to explore dungeons part-time during college to pay for tuition... I realized it was all I had left, so I quit and became a full-time explorer."


    "Wow... that''s pretty bold."


    Despite being too shy to show her face on stream and wearing a fox mask, Miyamoto-san had the guts to quit her job and decide to make a living as an explorer. It takes real nerve to leave a job without knowing where your next paycheck will come from.


    "But even after all this time, I''m still stuck at E-rank, and I started wondering if I just don''t have any talent."


    "No, you''ve definitely got talent. Way more than most of my viewers, that''s for sure."


    : Ouch.


    : He''s not wrong, though.


    : Wait, really?


    : Hey, I''m a proud lifetime E-rank!


    : To be fair, the only thing wrong here is that Kanakon''s still E-rank.


    : Did he just roast us all?


    : Uh, excuse me, I''m a solid C-rank.


    Honestly, with her potential, Miyamoto-san could easily reach B-rank within a year if things go smoothly. She said she''s been doing this since college, but if this is how she''s been fighting the whole time, then she''s got some natural talent.


    "Though... I have trouble socializing, so I''ve never really been part of a team."


    "..."


    Ah, she''s one of us.


    : You definitely thought, "One of us," didn''t you?


    : Don''t lump her in with us.


    : She''s just a little shy.


    : And definitely gorgeous.


    : We''re not the same, man.


    "Why do you only defend her? This is why none of you have friends."


    : Same goes for you, buddy.


    : LOL


    : Hey, no need to bring friends into this!


    : That''s a low blow, man.


    : Like you''ve got friends yourself.


    "What? I have Asagao-san. We talk at school, you know?"


    : Betrayal!


    : You''re telling me Kisaragi has friends!?


    : This ruins my mental image of him.


    : EX-ore-tachi (EX-us) is officially revoked.


    : He''s no longer one of us.


    : This is heresy.


    "Aha... this is a pretty fun stream."


    "...Sorry, I got a bit carried away. This is just the usual dynamic."


    Maybe I went a little too far. This is a collaboration stream, after all. It''s fine when I''m streaming with Asagao, but I should probably dial it down when I''m with someone like Miyamoto-san, especially since it''s our first time streaming together. Though, I''m not sure if I''ll be able to hold back if the viewers keep egging me on.


    : Sorry, Kanakon-chan!


    : Kanakon is adorable.


    : Walking alongside an EX¡ªso impressive.


    : You''re awesome, Kanakon, hanging out with an EX.


    : Are EXs classified as hazardous materials or something? S§×arch* The N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Pretty much.

 Chapter 71 - 71: A Test of Strength

    We''ve arrived at the middle floors of the Shibuya Dungeon again, this time in the forested area. Though it''s Miyamoto-san''s first time in the middle floors, so I''ll need to be somewhat cautious while exploring. The monsters on the higher end of the middle floors aren''t drastically stronger than those in the lowest part of the upper floors, so I''m confident Miyamoto-san can handle herself.


    However, the terrain changes significantly in the middle floors, creating more blind spots, and the number of monsters increases, making it a more challenging environment. Still, if you don''t walk the edge of danger, you won''t sharpen your skills, so it should be fine.


    "Manipulating magic, circulating magic power, and refining magic to cast spells. In a dungeon, it''s essential to control your magic freely."


    "Y-Yes!"


    "That means the more magic you have in your body, the better your odds in battle."


    : True.


    : Magic power is king.


    : The more magic you have, the better explorer you are; with less, you''re just weak.


    : Even monsters get stronger based on how much magic they''ve got.


    : In dungeons, it''s all about magic power.


    That''s why I told Asakawa-san it''s better to increase her magic capacity before worrying about boosting her spell potency. Well, in her case, she can see magic, so she didn''t need much teaching to grasp controlling or circulating it. For most people, handling an invisible and ambiguous force like magic is challenging, but she''s dealing with what she can physically see, like it''s no big deal.


    Honestly, Asakawa-san might be a genius¡ªbeing able to see magic is probably a form of synesthesia.


    "It''s really a forest¡­ I''ve seen it in other people''s streams, but it''s still strange to see something like a bright sun and trees underground."


    "Well¡­ that''s for the scholars to figure out."


    : Translation: "I don''t know."


    : Well, explorers don''t really need to worry about that stuff.


    : True, leave it to the scientists.


    : Kisaragi''s definitely the type who only cares about things he''s interested in.


    : Classic nerd behavior¡ªsuper invested in some things, total indifference to others.


    Even if I ponder the mechanics of this place, it wouldn''t change much. I do keep up with the latest research papers, but I don''t delve into the causes behind dungeon phenomena. For me, it''s enough to accept that "it''s just how it is."


    "Hm?"


    I sense a gaze from the bushes. It doesn''t carry any hostility or intent to kill, though, so it''s probably not a monster¡ªit feels more like a human presence. Who''d be people-watching in the middle floors of a dungeon? Pretty rare.


    That aside, I can feel the vibrations of monsters approaching from the front. Judging by the size of the tremors, they aren''t particularly large, but there are quite a few of them.


    "M-Monsters are coming."


    "...You''re handling them all, Miyamoto-san."


    "W-What?"


    : Oh, here we go.


    : Classic sadism.


    : Saw that coming.


    : Yeah, no surprise.


    : Kisaragi''s training methods are always brutal.


    : He''s just passing down what Jinguji Kaede used to do to him.


    : EXs, man, take it easy.


    "You''ll be fine. It''s the middle floors, so it''s not like you''ll die right away¡­ I''ll help before you lose all your limbs."


    "W-Wait, what!?"


    : Wut.


    : LIMBS!?


    : Does he not help until it''s THAT bad?


    : What a sadist.


    : Let''s spread this on social media¡ªdude gets off on sending women into monster fights.


    : That''s some messed-up fetish, man.


    It''s not a fetish¡ªit''s legitimate training. If she can''t handle this, there''s no way she''ll survive the lower floors. At the very least, to make a living as a professional dungeon explorer, you need to be able to reach the lowest levels of the middle floors.


    Come to think of it, isn''t the real reason there aren''t many explorers because the pay isn''t enough? With so many explorers stuck in the upper floors, why isn''t the government raising the buying price for magic stones or trying to recruit more middle-floor explorers?


    "Eek!? What is that bizarre plant!?"


    "...Who knows?"


    I know most monsters by their traits and how to deal with them when they show up, but I don''t bother memorizing the names of all the creatures in the middle floors.


    : How do you not know, man? LOL


    : That''s an Eggplant.


    : Wait, it''s actually called an Eggplant?


    : So, it''s a literal eggplant, huh?


    : Yep, that''s right.


    : But where''s the eggplant part?


    : I think it camouflages itself as one, right?


    "Apparently, it camouflages itself as a greenish eggplant."


    : Ah, that''s the reason.


    : Still, no one''s worried about Kanakon?


    : You''d think someone would mention her at least once.


    : Surely, someone has.


    : Nope, nothing.


    : LOL


    : Eggplants aren''t strong, so she''s fine.


    As expected, about ten Eggplant monsters, small plant-based creatures, appeared. For a plant, the fact that they walk around on legs makes no sense to me.


    Their heads hang down, resembling eggplants, which they use for camouflage. They''re about 120 cm tall, but they''re still just plants. If Miyamoto-san swings her axe, she''ll be fine¡ªthese things don''t even use any fancy magic or anything.


    "Waaaahhhh!"


    : That was a straight-up scream, LOL.


    : But she took down two with one swing.


    : Isn''t Kanakon kinda strong?


    : Yeah, she''s stronger than I thought.


    Her magic circulation is better than I expected. If she wasn''t skilled at it, there''s no way she''d be able to close several meters in one step and then slice an Eggplant clean in half with a single swing of her axe. Even if these aren''t the strongest middle-floor monsters, they should still be tougher than the Steel Ants. And judging by her performance, she''s not really struggling.


    Her biggest challenge might be dealing with monsters that use magic.


    At this level of the middle floors, we''re not seeing magic-wielding monsters yet, but further down, things like Wyverns will casually start breathing fire. She''ll definitely need a plan to counter that.


    : She screamed and charged, but wiped them all out.


    : That''s terrifying. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : This girl''s actually strong.


    : She''s way stronger than me.


    : I take back my earlier comments.


    : Is this where the viewers get humbled?


    : Viewers always getting humbled here.


    "...Still, you''re not quite at C-rank yet."


    : Really?


    : Hmm, maybe a little short.


    : I don''t know, something feels lacking.


    : Can''t really tell.


    Her magic circulation is good, but she lacks raw magical power, and that limits her potential for explosive attacks. While this level of magic control is sufficient for the middle floors, to fight the monsters in the lower floors, she''ll need more destructive power.


    Just like Asakawa-san learned to compress her magic to increase the power of her spells, the firepower required in the lower floors is significantly higher. There are also monsters with extremely tough and thick skin down there.


    That being said, with her physical enhancements through magic circulation, if we could just upgrade her axe to something with a crazy edge, Miyamoto-san could probably make it to the lower floors. But that would be relying too much on her equipment.


    "I-I did it¡­ I somehow managed!"


    Now, what should I do from here?

 Chapter 72 - 72: Awkward Goodbyes

    I''m the type who doesn''t bring many weapons into the dungeon. Sure, I carry a sword made from deep-floor materials, but I mostly rely on magic. It''s just easier to cast spells, even though I''m more comfortable with physical combat. When I do use my sword, it''s more about the feel and the flow of battle.


    If Miyamoto-san wants to take her skills further, she''d probably benefit from advice from someone like Aizawa-san, who regularly fights with weapons. I''ll have to ask him next time we meet.


    "Do you channel magic through your weapon, Kanakon-san?"


    "Huh¡­ what?"


    : Wait, what?


    : How do you channel magic through a weapon?


    : Are we talking about magical weapons?


    : No, magical weapons have magic embedded in them during their creation.


    : Is it like making the weapon absorb magic energy?


    "Think of it like covering your body with magic, but instead, you do it to your weapon."


    "How do you even¡­ do that?"


    "Well, the fastest way is to convince yourself the weapon is just an extension of your own body."


    At least that''s how I do it. I treat my sword like it''s just another limb, channel magic into it, and increase its hardness. That way, I can draw out more power than the weapon would normally have. Of course, if you push it too far, the weapon itself can break from the strain.


    I guess it''d be easier to show her, so I pull out my katana from my shikigami, Kasha, to demonstrate.


    : He just casually pulls out his sword.


    : For a guy who''s a shikigami user, he sure fights a lot himself.


    : Everyone knows he''s stronger than his shikigami.


    : We all know this.


    : That sword looks awesome.


    : Is that custom-made?


    : The blue blade is really cool.


    I take a deep breath.


    The harder the blade, the more things it can cut through. There''s an advanced technique where you sharpen the magic around the blade to make it even more deadly. I don''t do it often since I''m not that precise during high-speed combat, but Aizawa-san apparently does. Asakawa-san, who uses a spear, is also using a simplified version of this technique, though she''s still working on it.


    I channel magic through the katana, refining the edge. Slowly honing the magic feels a bit like tuning a musical instrument¡ªsomething I enjoy when I have the time. But in real combat, I do it quickly, so it loses that charm.


    With the sword fully honed, I swing it forward. The air tears with a sharp sound, and the forest in front of me is cleanly cut down in a several-meter radius. This is the kind of skill deep-floor explorers need when wielding weapons.


    "How was that?"


    "...Are you even human?"


    "I''m human, yes."


    : No way.


    : Nope, not human.


    : I don''t know what kind of human can do this.


    : At least call it magic!


    : Somehow, magic would make it easier to accept.


    : Yeah, if it''s magic, it''s slightly less insane.


    Even if Miyamoto-san isn''t great at refining magic power, she should still be able to wrap magic around her weapon. It''s just a matter of getting used to magic manipulation. She''s already good at circulating magic, so this should be within her grasp. Though with her current magic reserves, it''ll be more of a temporary fix.


    : Can I do this too?


    : So this is what magic manipulation feels like?


    : Alright, I''m going to seriously practice magic now.


    : Are you serious?


    "If you can manipulate magic, you can do it. It''s not guaranteed, but mastering magic manipulation is definitely the quickest route."


    "...M-Magic through my weapon¡­"


    Hmm, it looks like she''s still struggling with consciously controlling magic. She seems to circulate it instinctively, so maybe we need to go back to the basics.


    "Kanakon-san, first, you should focus on sensing your magic flow. Even if it''s just a vague feeling, try to become aware of it. Before bed, take about ten minutes to meditate and consciously circulate your magic."


    "Meditation? Like¡­ yoga?"


    "Well, something like that."


    It feels a bit different from that, but as long as it works for her, that''s fine. The flow of magic is a personal sensation, and my method isn''t going to work for everyone.


    : Yeah, this is tough.


    : Did anyone expect it to be easy?


    : If anyone could do it, we''d all be diving into the middle floors.


    : Man, I wish I could be a full-time explorer.


    : Keep at it.


    : Meditation, huh?


    "For now, let''s keep fighting the monsters in the middle floors."


    "Wait, what?" S§×arch* The Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''ll be fine. You''ve already got the basics of channeling magic through your weapon, even if it''s a bit rough."


    : "Rough" is a mean way to say it.


    : Give her a break, man.


    : Be gentler with your words!


    : Freaking superhuman.


    : It''s still impressive if she can do it.


    : I''m literally in the Shibuya Dungeon right now, and there are people standing still with their weapons, probably trying to figure this out.


    : Don''t explore the dungeon while watching a stream, people!


    : LOL.


    : Real-time training, huh?


    Wait, there are people exploring while watching the stream? I didn''t expect that¡­ Maybe that''s where that gaze I felt earlier came from¡ªsomeone from the stream.


    "Exploring while watching is dangerous."


    : Facts.


    : Why are you suddenly the voice of reason?


    : You can''t just switch to normal logic like that.


    : Hypocrite.


    : LOL.


    : Yeah, don''t dungeon dive while watching streams (RIP me).


    : Rest in peace.


    There''s a clearing up ahead in the forest. I''ll let Miyamoto-san fight there for a while. The best way to increase magic reserves is through steady combat experience.


    "Th-Thank you¡­ for everything."


    "Good job."


    I had Miyamoto-san battle middle-floor monsters for a while before ending the stream. It might have been a bit of a dull stream, but there''s no shortcut to becoming a strong explorer. You need to hone your skills, and then it''s up to your own talent to see how far you can take it.


    "Thank you for today. I learned a lot, and the person at the reception desk said I should be able to apply for D-rank now."


    "Yes, but don''t push yourself too hard. You still need to work on the basics."


    "Y-Yes!"


    The moment you level up and can access new floors, that''s when explorers are most at risk. Specifically, when they reach D-rank and can enter the middle floors or C-rank for the lower floors. Most people don''t dive into the deep floors immediately after reaching A-rank, but that''s because B-rank explorers tend to be more experienced by that point.


    With Miyamoto-san''s current strength, there aren''t many middle-floor monsters that could seriously threaten her, but a dungeon is a place where even extreme caution might not be enough.


    "Um¡­"


    "What''s wrong?"


    What should I do¡­? I''ve helped her this much, so I wouldn''t mind if she contacted me again with questions, but we didn''t exchange contact info¡­ If I ask her for her contact now, would it come off as weird, like I''m just looking for an excuse to hit on her? Miyamoto-san''s pretty and probably sensitive to those things¡­ But if she''s going to become a top-tier explorer, wouldn''t it be better to¡ª


    "Um, could I¡­ get your contact information? I might have more questions."


    "...O-Of course!"


    Thank goodness!


    If she asked first, there''s no way it''ll seem weird. I definitely won''t come off as creepy!


    Later, when I got home and remembered exchanging contact info, I felt a little too excited and died a bit inside from embarrassment.

 Chapter 73 - 73: Thread 9: Unveiling Hidden Talents

    73: Anonymous Explorer


    I just subscribed to Kanakon-chan. From now on, I''ll be watching both Kisaragi-kun and Asagao-chan at the same time.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾73


    Same here. By the way, Kanakon-chan is a full-time streamer, so she streams a lot during the day. As for Asagao-chan and Kisaragi-kun, they have school and requests, so a daytime streaming slot might be perfect for them.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    It couldn''t be helped. She was just too cute.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    And from now on, she''ll be a mid-floor streamer, right? I have to watch.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun should train more explorers. Then I''ll watch those streamers.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like Kisaragi-kun is a talent scout for underdog streamers. But honestly, he has a great eye for finding talented people.


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    He said he''s been keeping an eye on her for a while. He definitely watches streams pretty frequently.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, can you really tell just by watching streams? I can''t spot any differences.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t worry, I can''t tell either.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    All upper-floor streams look the same to me. The only difference I can spot is the weapons.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe explorers can see the differences more easily? If that''s the case, I wish he''d find even more interesting people.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    He doesn''t need to collaborate with them, but I''d like him to at least introduce skilled streamers. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    Like "The next breakout star, as seen by EX"?


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    But didn''t Kanakon-chan gain more viewers because she collaborated with Kisaragi-kun and got advice on becoming a mid-floor streamer?


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    Dude, just focus on doing one deep-floor stream a month and collaborate the rest of the time to train others.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    A training streamer? That''s hilarious.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    Please don''t create a whole new genre of streams.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s no surprise Kisaragi-kun took notice. I didn''t get what was so special about her at first, but by the end of the stream, she was like a different person.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾91


    Well, the training was brutal, though.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    It can''t be helped. To survive the mid-floors, you need to push yourself to that level.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop with the "Kisaragi-kun method."


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d rather take it slow... I don''t want to train like I''m about to die.


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    But in the end, Kisaragi-kun didn''t step in to help even once. There were a few close calls, and the comment section was freaking out.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    She didn''t lose any limbs, right? So it''s all good.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s recall what Kisaragi-kun casually muttered during the stream:


    "If you lose a limb or two, you won''t die. And if it happens, can''t you just reattach them?"


    Is this guy insane?


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    You have to be a bit crazy to become EX.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾99


    Stop being so blunt!


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, but still¡­ there has to be something more to it, right!?


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, it''s the mid-floors we''re talking about¡­ maybe it''s just necessary?


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    Y''all are way too conditioned by now.


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, the anti-thread exploded again.


    105: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾104


    Just ignore them.


    106: Anonymous Explorer


    "They should report this if Kanakon gets hurt. This is practically abuse!"


    These are the kind of people we''re dealing with. Don''t expect to have a rational conversation.


    107: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾106


    She agreed to the training herself. Also, while he didn''t step in, Kisaragi-kun did secretly take care of a few extra monsters and dealt with some that snuck up behind her.


    108: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾107


    He does it so casually that you barely notice, but he''s doing insane stuff.


    109: Anonymous Explorer


    It really reminds you he''s EX level.


    110: Anonymous Explorer


    I''d be willing to risk some injuries if it meant getting that strong. I want Kisaragi-kun to train me too.


    111: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾110


    He''s mostly just helping people hone their natural talents. It''s not something anyone can do. I mean, I have no clue how to circulate magic, so it''d be impossible for me.


    112: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, it''s tough.


    113: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾110


    Even if you paid him, you''d still need talent. Kanakon-chan is good at manipulating and circulating magic, which is why she benefited from the training.


    114: Anonymous Explorer


    I heard that EX Salaryman is the best at magic manipulation and circulation. He must be a close-combat monster with insane circulation.


    115: Anonymous Explorer


    He carries a shield too, so I''m betting he uses manipulation to make himself a tank.


    116: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, Kisaragi said Jinguuji Kaede is the most insane when it comes to using magic. Even he doesn''t get how she does it.


    117: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, not Kamishiro Rion?


    118: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾117


    I thought so too.


    119: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the next stream going to be?


    120: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾119


    Probably more of Kanakon-chan''s training, right?


    121: Anonymous Explorer


    Bring out Jinguuji Kaede next time.


    122: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to see him dive into the deep floors with EX Salaryman.


    123: Anonymous Explorer


    EX Salaryman is mostly involved in teaching B rank and higher explorers, so maybe Kisaragi-kun could tag along?


    124: Anonymous Explorer


    Would that even count as teaching?


    125: Anonymous Explorer


    Absolutely not. I guarantee it.


    126: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾125


    The lack of faith is hilarious.


    127: Anonymous Explorer


    Next, he should collaborate with Panda. I bet after this stream, he''s getting flooded with collaboration requests.


    128: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾127


    Of course, he raised Kanakon-chan from E-rank to D-rank in just one day. But I doubt he''ll accept most of the offers.


    129: Anonymous Explorer


    He usually does pretty casual streams, and even though the collaboration with Kanakon-chan seemed a bit reckless, he clearly did his homework. He knew what kind of weapon she uses, her fighting style, and how well she manipulates magic. So the next new talent discovery collaboration will probably take a while.


    130: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾129


    That actually makes a lot of sense.

 Chapter 74 - 74: Thread 10: The Next Collaboration?

    131: Anonymous Explorer


    If you think about it, he must''ve been keeping tabs on Kanakon-chan for quite some time before all this.


    132: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾131


    In other words¡­ Asagao-chan has a rival now?


    133: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾132


    Ah¡­


    134: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾132


    True, though. A younger guy who''s been watching over her, helped raise her rank after she was stuck for so long¡­ I mean, yeah¡­


    135: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve done it now, Kisaragi-kun.


    136: Anonymous Explorer


    This guy¡­ I bet he''s secretly popular with girls.


    137: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾136


    But only when he''s doing explorer stuff. In his casual streams, you can see hints that he''s just as much of an introvert as the rest of us.


    138: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, I can''t laugh because I totally get what you mean.


    139: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun (not saying what exactly):


    Asagao-chan


    Kamishiro Rion


    Kanakon-chan


    So far, that''s three.


    140: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder what this is all about...


    141: Anonymous Explorer


    What could it be referring to?


    142: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾139


    The love interests, obviously (straightforward).


    143: Anonymous Explorer


    Ah, you idiot.


    144: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t just say it directly like that!


    145: Anonymous Explorer


    Guess I''ll take this (to the anti-thread)!


    146: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t take it there!


    147: Anonymous Explorer


    Do anti-threads really freak out just because Kisaragi-kun gets attention from girls? If Asagao-chan has unicorn fans, just tell them to ship him with Kamishiro Rion, problem solved.


    148: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾147


    Those guys are monsters who only want to see others suffer. No matter who gives Kisaragi-kun positive attention, they''re going to get mad.


    149: Anonymous Explorer


    (Why don''t they just tell him directly?)


    150: Anonymous Explorer


    (Because no one''s brave enough to talk directly to an EX explorer.)


    151: Anonymous Explorer


    (Internet tough guys, huh?)


    152: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾147


    You''re talking about people who are in love with a high school girl and are jealous of her high school classmate. Obviously, they''re not going to make any sense.


    153: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s so bad, it''s actually funny.


    154: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s harsh, but¡­ honestly, yeah, that''s exactly what''s happening.


    155: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, it''s not even an anti-thread. It''s just a crybaby thread where people whine about Kisaragi-kun.


    156: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no real conversation happening, it''s just people crying. You''re better off thinking of them as animals making noise.


    157: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾156


    Don''t even bother reading those threads. You''ll get dragged into their madness.


    158: Anonymous Explorer


    If you try to understand the thought process of crazy people, you''ll end up crazy yourself. Just limit your exposure.


    159: Anonymous Explorer


    Reading the posts there genuinely feels like it''s rotting my brain. It''s seriously dangerous.


    160: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Kisaragi-kun keeps throwing fuel on the fire, as usual.


    [Image]


    161: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾160


    Why are these two flirting on social media?


    162: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾160


    Lol, they''re just casually chatting on Twitter, and it''s hilarious.


    163: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, Kisaragi-kun just responds to any replies he finds interesting. He probably doesn''t even think of himself as a famous person.


    164: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾160


    "Hey, I watched your stream with Kanakon-san! Can you teach me about magic circulation next time?"


    "You''re already good at it, Asagao-san. Just focus on increasing your magic reserves."


    "No way, I couldn''t even pierce the Frost Wyvern''s skin!"


    "No, your spear broke, but you were definitely piercing it."


    "Just teach me next time! Doesn''t have to be during a stream."


    "No thanks. I don''t have anything to teach you."


    "C''mon! You even took me on that date just to chat the other day!"


    He casually revealed that they hang out off-stream, and it''s hilarious.


    165: Anonymous Explorer


    That one word, "date," made the whole Gachi-koi crowd explode, huh?


    166: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t that basically her staking her claim? Like, "This guy''s mine."


    167: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this the battle between women we''ve been waiting for?


    [Image]


    168: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾167


    Lol.


    169: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t you dare get involved.


    170: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion throwing shade is killing me.


    171: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re just saying they''re going to a baseball game today, right? (playing dumb).


    172: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no reason to tell Asagao-chan about that, though.


    173: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Kisaragi-kun is completely ignoring the rivalry and chatting with Kanakon-chan on Twitter.


    [Image]


    174: Anonymous Explorer


    This guy has to be doing it on purpose. If he''s not, he''s just completely oblivious.


    175: Anonymous Explorer


    I honestly think he''s just oblivious. Outside of exploring dungeons, he has insanely low self-esteem. You can tell from some of his casual social media posts.


    176: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾175


    Seriously? That''s actually kind of dark.


    177: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi-kun has casually mentioned it a few times on stream, but he grew up in an orphanage. He doesn''t have parents. That''s probably part of it.


    178: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾177


    Dude, that''s rough¡­ I didn''t expect this conversation to go there. It''s actually impressive he turned out so normal.


    179: Anonymous Explorer


    Is he really normal, though? There are definitely parts of him that seem a little broken. It''s hard to tell if he became EX because of that, or if being EX made him that way.


    180: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾178


    "Normal" isn''t exactly the right word, huh?


    181: Anonymous Explorer


    So, are we getting another collaboration with Kanakon-chan soon? Or is he just chatting with her?


    182: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾181


    From the conversation, it seems like she''s just thanking him for the collaboration. Nothing more than that.


    183: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve been living for Kisaragi-kun''s streams lately, so I hope he keeps them coming.


    184: Anonymous Explorer


    Same here. His streams are always entertaining, even when it''s just casual chat.


    185: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, he can just chat the entire time, and it''d still be fun. But his deep-floor dives are something else.


    186: Anonymous Explorer


    I wouldn''t mind if he goes deeper into lore or mechanics sometime. But I doubt that''s his style.


    187: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾186 sea??h th§× NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yeah, Kisaragi-kun''s more about action than talking about theory.


    188: Anonymous Explorer


    I agree. Even though he explains stuff, it''s always in a laid-back, practical way. No unnecessary lecturing.


    189: Anonymous Explorer


    I think that''s what makes him appealing. He''s relatable but still does things we can''t even dream of.


    190: Anonymous Explorer


    Speaking of, when''s the next deep-floor stream?


    191: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾190


    If he sticks to his once-a-month deep-floor plan, we should be getting one soon, right?


    192: Anonymous Explorer


    I hope so! Those streams are wild.


    193: Anonymous Explorer


    I can''t wait to see him tackle something insane again.


    194: Anonymous Explorer


    As long as the next stream doesn''t turn into some love-triangle drama, I''m good.


    195: Anonymous Explorer


    Haha, with all the girls around him, it''s starting to feel more like a romance show than a dungeon stream.


    196: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, as long as he keeps diving into the deep floors, we''ll be watching.

 Chapter 75 - 75: Showdown with the Queen

    "Come with me for a minute."


    "Huh... what?" sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I thought some crazy thug was picking a fight with me, but it turned out to be grandma. No, she''s always been scarier than any street punk, and even now, she''s still as forceful as ever. I can''t help but think her husband must have been a saint or a Buddha to marry her.


    Kamishiro Kaede¡­ Since the early days of Japan''s dungeons, she has been an unparalleled explorer, the only one in Japan to have conquered the deepest levels of a dungeon. Her skill and her title, "The Fastest Explorer," are renowned both in Japan and abroad, making her the reigning queen of Japan''s dungeon-exploring world.


    "So, what''s this about, all of a sudden?"


    "I want you to spar with my students."


    "Me? Spar with your students?"


    The word "students" might sound a bit mysterious, but Kamishiro Kaede runs a special dojo where she trains dungeon explorers. I''ve never been one of her students, but it''s the biggest training facility in the country, and apparently, there are a lot of trainees. When she says she wants me to spar with them, she probably means something simple, like a practice match.


    Though honestly, I feel like she could just do it herself.


    "Let me be clear, I want you to go all out."


    "...What?"


    I''m not bragging, but if I go all out, most explorers will go down in an instant... or at least that''s how I feel. I was thinking this as I got into the car and was driven to the dojo. Now, I kind of regret agreeing to this.


    "Why are these guys B and C rank...?"


    "Next."


    I was sitting there, fiddling with the wooden sword I had been given, when a deep voice echoed through the dojo, signaling the next opponent. A huge guy stepped forward. He was unarmed, but I guess it''s fine for me to use a wooden sword since grandma didn''t say anything.


    "Pleased to meet you!"


    "Y-yeah, you too."


    Apparently, the people I''m sparring with are high-rank explorers from grandma''s dojo. But there are also a lot of younger explorers, about my age, sitting in the audience watching, so it''s probably a demonstration for their benefit too. Just like I train up people I find talented, grandma''s also training a bunch of newcomers. I guess showing them a match with someone closer to their age makes sense.


    "Begin!"


    As soon as the referee''s voice rang out, the muscular guy closed the distance. The only prohibited moves in this spar are offensive magic. That means the guy in front of me is fully utilizing his magic control and circulation. When he launched a right straight punch, I dodged it with minimal movement, stepping back. Immediately, he followed up with a roundhouse kick.


    I guess that''s one difference between fighting monsters and humans. Though, I caught it with my left hand easily enough.


    "What the...?"


    "You''re full of openings."


    Since she told me to go all out, I won''t hold back, even against an older opponent. He crossed his arms to defend against my warning strike, but I slammed a palm strike into his guard, sending him flying into the dojo wall.


    "That''s enough!"


    "It seems like you usually concentrate magic in your fists for your attacks, but that kick was pretty sloppy."


    "Guh... th-thank you very much!"


    "Thank you very much."


    "Next."


    Is this really okay? Grandma''s just sitting there, watching, and the only words she''s uttering are "Next" whenever an opponent is defeated.


    "Pleased to meet you."


    "Pleased to meet you too."


    "Begin!"


    The next challenger was a slender woman, holding short wooden swords in both hands. She took a stance and moved forward with a deceptive rhythm, a style clearly designed to confuse the senses. It was the kind of movement meant to trick intelligent opponents. But her rapid attacks were no match for grandma''s, so I blocked them all with my left hand, not even bothering to use my sword.


    "!? What...?"


    "Oh."


    Realizing her attacks weren''t landing, she threw one of her wooden swords at me. I casually deflected it with my left hand, and when she used the sword as a distraction to close the distance, I sliced her remaining wooden sword in half using magic-enhanced precision.


    "...Huh?"


    "It''s over."


    "I-I yield..."


    "That''s enough."


    When you cut someone''s sword cleanly in two, they usually freeze for a moment. Taking advantage of that, I tapped my wooden sword against her neck, and she quickly surrendered.


    It seems some of the challengers watching have seen my streams and are sweating a bit, seeing me fight without using my familiars. People often assume that familiar users like me are physically weak, but my mentor is Kamishiro Kaede.


    "...This is boring. I''m going next."


    "...Wait, what!?"


    Why!? Isn''t this supposed to be a show for the new explorers, with some training thrown in for the more experienced ones?


    "What are you surprised about? These young fools were just warm-ups... I haven''t had a good match in a while, so I''m stepping in myself."


    "Uh... but...?"


    Do we really need to do this? I mean, if I don''t use my familiars, she''s just stronger than me. Japan''s strongest explorer isn''t a title she holds for no reason!


    "I''m getting old, you know... It''s about time you stop messing around and take on the title of Japan''s strongest."


    "No, no, no... I''m only 18."


    "All the more reason. Youth is an advantage."


    She''s serious. It''s been about a year since I last fought grandma properly, and honestly, I don''t think I can win. It''s not about my current skill level; it''s just that the image of Kamishiro Kaede in my mind is unshakable.


    "Come at me whenever you''re ready."


    "... Please go easy on me."


    "Begin!"


    The moment the referee shouted "begin," I crouched on the spot. At the same time, a kick from grandma, who had somehow moved behind me without me noticing, sailed over where my head had been.


    "Not bad."


    "Do you know how many times I''ve been kicked in the back of the head by you!?"


    After enduring countless harsh training sessions where grandma''s kicks landed on my head, I''d learned. At first, I couldn''t even react, but now I can! I''m going to beat her this time. She started this fight, so I''m not holding back!

 Chapter 76 - 76: Grandma’s Unstoppable Force

    She moves at such an incredible speed that even the sound of her movement lags behind. It''s impossible for me to directly counter her attacks. My eyes can barely keep up, but matching her speed and attacking is just out of the question. So, the only strategy left to me is¡­ counter-attacking!


    "You think you can keep up with my movements?"


    "...!"


    The most terrifying thing about grandma isn''t just her speed but the fact that she can stop and accelerate without any warning. Even when she''s moving faster than sound, she doesn''t give off any hints when she stops, and she doesn''t have to decelerate like normal people. If you know how she''s achieving this level of speed, it makes sense in a way, but it''s still unreal.


    Although grandma mostly fights with high-speed hand-to-hand combat, her true specialty is offensive magic. I''m not using my familiar techniques, and she''s not using offensive magic, so we''re both handicapped from our strongest areas. Still, grandma is overwhelmingly stronger than the explorers I just fought at the dojo.


    Her mastery of magic circulation is absurdly good, and her magic control is so precise it''s frightening. The guy I fought earlier mainly used his fists, which meant he wasn''t great at controlling magic through his legs. But grandma? She fights using magic, and her attacks, even without magic, are terrifyingly sharp.


    "Good... I''m just getting started."


    "Please spare me!"


    I dodged her straight punch and immediately swung my wooden sword for a counterattack, but it cut through nothing but air. I followed my instincts and leaped back, narrowly avoiding the whoosh of her kick as it sliced through the air. As I landed, I swung the wooden sword behind me, only for her to easily deflect it.


    I pushed my magic circulation and control to the max, stepping forward. I swung the wooden sword with all my strength, feeling it graze grandma''s karate uniform. Just as I felt the slight resistance of contact, a shock hit my left hand, which I had raised to guard my temple.


    "Ouch! That''s definitely broken!"


    "It''s not broken."


    My left hand is throbbing in pain! But I''m not completely out of sync. Before she overwhelms me, I have to hit her with a stronger counterattack. Forget about holding back for the dojo; that thought has long vanished!


    "W-whoa!?"


    "She''s a... monster."


    Grandma and I stepped forward simultaneously, and the impact shook the entire dojo, cracking the floor under our feet. Just like how she moves faster than sound, I ran forward at top speed. If I just waited, counterattacking would''ve been easier, but by moving first, I hoped to limit her attack angles.


    In my heightened perception of time, I could see grandma slowly extending her palm toward me. I swung my wooden sword, but halfway through, it snapped. Even so, I thrust the broken hilt toward her solar plexus. Just as I thought I had landed the hit, her palm strike, which had shattered my sword, rammed into my side with unrelenting force. This... is bad.


    "Ugh!"


    That hurt... It was enough to rattle my consciousness, and I could hardly breathe. I''m pretty sure she cracked one of my ribs. I went flying through the wall next to the spectator seats and into the dojo courtyard... But at least this time, it felt like a draw.


    "That''s enough! Are you okay, Kamishiro-san?"


    "Call me Sensei... It''s been a while since I''ve taken a hit like that."


    "Phew... That really hurt."


    "You little brat... Don''t go slamming a wooden sword into an old woman''s solar plexus without mercy."


    What do you mean, old woman? Even though grandma''s a bit wobbly, she still looks like she could keep going. Well... considering how small this dojo is, we probably couldn''t continue at this level anyway.


    "Did they... just crack the dojo floor?"


    "So this is... what EX-level fighting looks like?"


    "Is Tsukasa Kisaragi stronger because he''s younger?" Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No, Kamishiro Sensei isn''t using any offensive magic..."


    "Well, Tsukasa Kisaragi isn''t using magic either."


    "Enough with the chatter. Let''s continue."


    "I''m taking a break..."


    Man, it''s been a long time since I''ve been in a fight that left me with bone damage. I haven''t had a fight in the dungeon that''s hurt me like this in ages... though I''ve always been uncomfortable with fighting other people.


    "Phew... You''ve already surpassed me."


    "Are we really having this conversation again?"


    "It''s the truth. If this had been a fight without restrictions, you know which one of us would''ve won."


    "I don''t know about that."


    "You''re too young to play dumb... Familiar techniques alone make you that powerful."


    Well... the book about familiar techniques that grandma gave me was labeled "secret," after all. I''m pretty sure most people aren''t supposed to have access to that.


    "I always intended for you to be my successor when I recommended you for EX. It''s time for you to take the mantle of Japan''s strongest... Don''t make an old woman keep doing all the work."


    "C''mon now..."


    If I were to take on the title of Japan''s strongest, I''d have to be the representative in a lot of meetings and speeches, right? That sounds way too high-level for me...


    "I guess it''s about time I retire."


    "What?"


    The association is going to beg her not to retire, I bet. In today''s world, Kamishiro Kaede''s name is one of Japan''s greatest assets. Even if I beat her in a fair fight and took the title of Japan''s strongest, there''s no way I could replace the impact she''s had for so many years.


    "I guess my last task will be conquering the Sapporo Dungeon."


    "If you do that, you''ll never be able to retire."


    That would be like a baseball player hitting a home run in every at-bat during their retirement game. It''d just make everyone ask why she''s retiring. Are you really serious about retiring?


    "That said, EX ranks aren''t increasing much... I guess I''ll stay active a little longer."


    "...It''d be a problem if we started getting too many EX-rank explorers, honestly."


    "We''ve had two new EXs in the past few years. I thought we''d see a few more by now."


    Well, there''s not much I can say to that. But you can''t really compare me and Kamishiro to the others. Even countries as big as the U.S. don''t have more than 10 EXs, so isn''t four EXs in Japan more than enough?


    "Ahh... More weaklings are joining the ranks these days. I guess I''ll have to tighten up the training."


    "...If you make it any tougher, there''ll be deaths, you know?"


    This dojo already pushes people so hard that tons of trainees quit. If she makes it any harder, I''m sure even fewer will stick around.

 Chapter 77 - 77: A Beach Date, An Aquarium, and Sapporo’s Final Mission

    As the pain from the blows subsided, I returned to the dojo, only to be surrounded by people bombarding me with questions.


    "How did you get so strong?"


    "How can someone so young have this much power?"


    "I watch your streams all the time!"


    The truth is, there isn''t a one-size-fits-all answer for how to become strong. Everyone''s path is different, so honestly, they should be asking the master¡ªmy grandmother, rather than me.


    I was born with an unusually high amount of magic compared to others. My grandmother taught me how to use it effectively, and eventually, I became an EX-level explorer through my mastery of shikigami arts and necromancy. So, most of what I can teach is just what my grandmother taught me. I don''t have as much personal experience as they might think. The path I walked isn''t easily replicated by others.


    What worked for me might not necessarily work for anyone else.


    "There''s no shortcut to getting strong. This kid was just born strong."


    "No, that''s not true¡ª"


    "Shut up... This one just didn''t know how to use the talent he was born with. As for you lot, you''re lacking in talent to begin with, so you better make up for it through hard work."


    Apparently, in my grandmother''s eyes, I''m just some wild child with great physical abilities who learned modern combat techniques. It seems like the older folks around us accepted that reasoning, but the younger generation looked less convinced. My grandmother didn''t say anything else, though, as she continued to sit there, overseeing the entire dojo with an air of authority.


    I still wasn''t sure why I was invited to the dojo today, but since my match with my grandmother was over, I might as well offer to spar with anyone who wants to test themselves. After all, it''s part of the training for them to experience sparring against a high-level opponent.


    In the end, I spent the entire day sparring with those who volunteered. Halfway through, I ditched the wooden sword and just sparred barehanded. But honestly, there wasn''t anyone who made me feel like I needed to put in much effort. That''s probably for the best¡ªif there had been, it would''ve been a whole different story.


    Still, there were a few people whose movements noticeably improved while sparring with me. Those explorers might eventually become top-tier if they continue training. They''ve got potential, that much is clear.


    "Hmm?"


    As I was being driven home from the dojo, I noticed a message on my phone. I had a few, but the only person who sends me proper messages is Asagawa.


    [Summer break is almost over, huh?]


    [I realized I haven''t been to the beach this year.]


    [You''ve been in dungeons the whole time, right?]


    Ugh¡­ how do I respond to this? I know what she''s getting at. She''s inviting me to go to the beach with her, right? It''s still incredibly hot, even at the end of August, so there''s nothing wrong with going to the beach. The real issue is... can I actually go to the beach with Asagawa?


    I mean, can I really pull off that kind of extroverted activity? Me... going to the beach with Asagawa?


    [Just the two of us, by the way.]


    That''s unnecessary information. But then again, it would be even worse if she invited a bunch of classmates. I''d end up being the odd one out, awkwardly standing around while they chatted away. I''ve never had friends, but I imagine that''s how it would go.


    "How should I reply..."


    Maybe I should just decline from the start? If I''m going to regret it afterward, I might as well explain why I can''t go and politely decline. That way, I wouldn''t make her feel uncomfortable.


    [If you''re not into the beach, we can go somewhere else, like the aquarium?]


    [Let''s go to the aquarium then.]


    [You really don''t like it, huh? That made me laugh.]


    Phew... I managed to downgrade this to a normal outing. Did I, though? Isn''t the aquarium a classic date spot? Did she set me up?


    No, I''m overthinking it. Jumping to conclusions and letting my thoughts spiral like this is one of those bad habits introverts have.


    [So, an aquarium date it is.]


    Wait... maybe I''ve been played.


    Ah, well. An aquarium, huh? The last time I went was on a school trip back in elementary school. It''s not exactly a place I''d visit on my own. It''s not that I dislike aquariums, but who goes there alone just to look at fish?


    After replying to Asagawa, thinking I was done, I received another message. Did she forget to mention something?


    [Heyyy, Tsukkun!]


    [Please be brief.]


    [If it''s something trivial, I''m going to ignore it.]


    I like to get ahead of things.


    I really don''t enjoy messaging with this person. She tends to go on and on without any real substance.


    [What do you even think of me?]


    [This is about the next mission.]


    The next mission?


    I haven''t heard about any upcoming missions, though... What''s this about?


    [I''m not aware of any mission.]


    [Really? There''s talk of making a final push to conquer the Sapporo Dungeon.]


    [And apparently, they''re planning to mobilize all EX-ranked explorers.]


    Huh? Are they serious?


    Japan, despite being a dungeon superpower, has never conquered another dungeon since Jinguji Kaede cleared the Takayama Dungeon. Compared to other dungeon superpowers, Japan hasn''t been very aggressive about dungeon conquests, partly due to a lack of manpower.


    It seems like the government wants to finally conquer one to show they''re making progress. And it makes sense they''d choose Sapporo Dungeon since it''s one of the more advanced ones in terms of exploration. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Got it.]


    [I''ll check with Shinanome for the details.]


    [Not me?]


    [I''d rather ask Aizawa than you.]


    [That''s so mean! Tsukkun? Tsukkun??]


    Alright, that''s enough. She may remember important things, but she never remembers the details. I''ll ask someone else.


    But if this Sapporo Dungeon thing is real, it could be a huge deal. Conquering the Sapporo Dungeon would be humanity''s first successful conquest of a dungeon with deep layers in a long time. This could be Jinguji Kaede''s last mission as an active explorer.


    Guess I''d better prepare.

 Chapter 78 - 78: Sapporo Dungeon Conquest

    "The deepest floor humanity has reached in the Sapporo Dungeon is the 76th. The deepest dungeon ever recorded by humans is the Berlin Dungeon in Germany, which goes down to the 97th floor," said Shishijima-san.


    "The recent achievement by Kisaragi and Kamishiro in Shibuya Dungeon¡ªreaching the 86th floor¡ªset the record for Japan''s deepest level observed. But the Sapporo Dungeon is expected to go even deeper."


    "So, what''s your point?" Kamishiro asked, raising her hand lazily while munching on a doughnut.


    Both Shishijima-san and Aizawa sighed simultaneously at her reaction, while my grandmother, as usual, remained uninterested. The high-ranking explorers surrounding us, many of whom were A or S rank, also seemed exasperated.


    "What I''m saying is that this will be a challenge that will go down in Japan''s history," Shishijima explained patiently.


    "Oh, okay¡­ but why now all of a sudden?" Kamishiro asked.


    "Because I''m about to retire," Grandma chimed in casually.


    "What!? You''re retiring!?" Kamishiro suddenly turned serious, visibly shocked by the news.


    Despite her usual laid-back attitude, Kamishiro held genuine respect for my grandmother. After all, the reason we met was because, back when Kamishiro was still A-rank, she picked a fight with me when Grandma declared me her successor. The fight escalated into an actual fistfight because Kamishiro couldn''t accept that her idol, Grandma, had chosen me to be her heir.


    "But you''re so much stronger than me! How can you retire?" Kamishiro stammered.


    "That''s right," Grandma replied without hesitation.


    "You don''t have to rub it in!" Kamishiro whined. "Can''t you at least believe in my abilities a little?"


    Honestly, though, having sparred with Grandma recently, I can confidently say she''s not slowing down at all. She''s just as fast and powerful as ever. Even though Kamishiro and Grandma have somewhat similar fighting styles, Grandma''s unique ability for high-speed movement makes her practically unbeatable.


    "Let''s continue the meeting," Aizawa interjected. "The Sapporo Dungeon is an icy cave where most monsters resemble inorganic materials. The Association classifies these creatures as ''Golem-types.''"


    "Like the Crystal Golem, which is where I get the material for the shield I use to scatter magic energy," Aizawa explained.


    "Ugh, I hate golems," Kamishiro grumbled. "Magic doesn''t work well against them."


    Honestly, the fact that magic even works at all on those monsters is baffling enough, considering their natural resistance. But speaking of important matters...


    "Shishijima-san, would it be possible to stream the dungeon conquest?" I asked.


    "...EXs, I swear," Shishijima-san muttered under his breath, as if he had just labeled me a troublemaker.


    Did he just throw shade at me?


    "Technically, there''s no rule against it," Shishijima-san said after a pause. "But really, you should consider being more... cooperative." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "It could serve as a perfect video record," I offered, hoping to justify the idea.


    "Could you not suggest things no one has even thought of?" Aizawa sighed.


    "Whose side are you on, Tsukkun!?" Kamishiro protested.


    "I''m on the side of common sense," I replied. Which meant I was usually on Aizawa''s side in these situations.


    "I think it''s a good idea," Aizawa said. "Considering Japan wants to demonstrate that it''s actively tackling dungeon challenges, Kisaragi''s streaming channel could be a powerful tool."


    "I''m not familiar with the internet, but the more eyes there are on the situation, the harder it is to hide any shady dealings," Grandma added in her usual nonchalant way.


    "Personally, I''d like to allow it," Shishijima-san said, still hesitant. "But as head of the Association, I''ll need to consult the government before making any decisions. I''ll do my best to convince them."


    Yes! Finally, I''d get to showcase more than just the Shibuya and Hachioji Dungeons. I was already excited at the thought of showing my viewers what it''s like to explore uncharted dungeon floors. The thrill of venturing into unknown territories was something I lived for, and now I could share it with my audience again.


    "On the day of the conquest, we''ll send a team of A- and S-rank explorers to follow after you for support. The four EXs will lead the charge into the unexplored depths. It will be dangerous, so exercise caution," Shishijima-san advised.


    "I''ve gotten used to exploring dangerous deep floors. The government''s had me doing solo reconnaissance for years," Grandma said with a shrug.


    "Heh, Kisaragi, just don''t rush ahead recklessly. And Kamishiro, please don''t blow up the dungeon with your magic," Aizawa warned, half-serious.


    Wait, am I really being lumped in with Kamishiro as someone who needs to be cautioned? Then again, I''ve never actually explored deep floors in a party before, so coordinating with others could be tricky. Still, as long as I follow Aizawa and Grandma''s lead, it should work out.


    With the four of us, Aizawa will likely take the frontlines, Grandma and I will cover the mid-range, and Kamishiro will be providing magical support from the rear. But honestly... having Kamishiro in the back feels a bit concerning.


    "I wonder how many viewers I''d get if I stream the conquest?" Kamishiro mused, her eyes lighting up.


    "Kamishiro, were you even paying attention to what Aizawa just said?" I asked, skeptical.


    "I was listening! I just need to blast everything from the back, right?"


    "You weren''t listening at all!"


    Kamishiro grinned, clearly unconcerned about the logistics. Sure, firing off spells from a distance is probably the right strategy, but if she destroys half the dungeon in the process, we''ll have bigger problems.


    "The conquest will take place a week from now, on August 31st," Shishijima-san announced, wrapping up the meeting.


    "Isn''t that the last day of summer break?" Kamishiro asked, tilting her head.


    "We still have another week after that," Aizawa corrected.


    "Oh, right. Well, I dropped out of college, so I''m free anyway!"


    Of course she dropped out¡­ Why am I not surprised? I bet if I asked why, I''d get a ridiculous answer, so I won''t even bother.


    Still, the Sapporo Dungeon, huh? It''s been about a year since I last went there. This is my first dungeon conquest mission as an EX explorer, but honestly, it doesn''t feel much different from the usual deep-floor requests I''ve handled. The only thing that excites me is the chance to explore new, uncharted floors.


    "...Just don''t slow us down, kid," Grandma warned Kamishiro.


    "I''ll be fine! I''ve got Aizawa and Tsukkun with me, so we''ve got this!" Kamishiro declared confidently.


    "I don''t know what you think you''re so confident about, but I''ll do my best to keep things under control, Jinguji-san," Aizawa reassured.


    "Don''t get me wrong, Aizawa, I''m not worried about you," Grandma said, crossing her arms. "It''s the kid I''m concerned about."


    Kamishiro groaned in frustration, but knowing the team I had with me, I wasn''t too worried either. Whatever the depths of the Sapporo Dungeon held, we''d handle it¡ªhopefully in time to make it back by the end of the day.

 Chapter 79 - 79: The Calm Before the Deep Dive!

    "Alright, hey there¡­ This is kind of a sudden stream, but today, we''ll be diving into the Sapporo Dungeon. It''s a city dungeon, so there might be other streamers usually covering it, but I think I can give you a fresh experience today. I''m Kisaragi Tsukasa, thanks for tuning in!"


    : LOL


    : Sudden stream (lmao), stop it


    : Dude, you''re acting like this is a regular day, but it''s on the news right now?


    : I''m laughing


    : It''s on TV, too


    : "We''re going to dive into the Sapporo Dungeon" (serious dungeon conquest)


    Honestly, I thought it would be a long shot, but I didn''t expect to actually get permission to stream. Right now, I''m standing in front of the Sapporo Dungeon, just waiting for the start time. There are a ton of TV cameras here, and they''re scrambling to get shots of all the EX-ranked explorers in one frame.


    Aizawa-san is walking around busily, Grandma is casually sipping coffee, and¡ªpredictably¡ªKamishiro-san is nowhere to be seen.


    "Hey, Aizawa-san, where''s Kamishiro?"


    "Huh? Oh¡­ She said she forgot something and went to a convenience store."


    "Does she have zero sense of cooperation?"


    "Yeah, pretty much."


    : "Yeah, pretty much," LOL


    : Why is this so normal?


    : What did she forget?


    : Probably a neck warmer or something


    : For going into a dungeon''s deep floors?


    : Sounds about right


    : EX problems


    : This is too much, I''m dying


    Looking at the comments, it seems like a lot of new viewers are here because of the news coverage. In other words, there are a lot of first-timers who usually don''t watch my streams. I''d love to try and grab their attention, but I don''t really have any tricks up my sleeve for that.


    By the way, the Sapporo Dungeon conquest has been widely covered by the media, and apparently, viewers are tuning in from all over the world. It''s becoming harder to pick out the Japanese comments among the flood of foreign ones.


    "Comments are coming in fast today, so I''ll only be picking out the ones I can catch."


    : Why do you sound so chill?


    : Is it though?


    : This seems like the usual for him.


    : I''m new here


    : First-timer


    : New viewers probably don''t get it


    : Came here from watching Asagao-chan''s stream


    : Asagao-chan''s mirroring this, LOL


    "Wait, is Asagao-san really mirroring my stream?"


    I don''t think it would be fun for anyone to watch a simultaneous viewing stream, but¡­ maybe it''s like when I watch Torimomo Sasami''s stream and chat while doing so?


    : No, a bunch of people are mirroring you


    : Torimomo is also doing a chat stream while watching, no video though


    : This is huge news, that''s why


    : There''s a lot of mirrors overseas too


    : You''re famous now


    : Duh, of course


    "Sorry for the wait! I bought some hand warmers and drinks!"


    "..."


    : Hand warmers and drinks, really?


    : She''s something else


    : Kamishiro-san, classic


    : She''s always doing this kind of stuff


    : I can''t handle her


    This person really can''t read the room. Hand warmers, sure, maybe you''ll need them. But drinks? The Association provided plenty. Then again, knowing her, she probably only cares about having her favorite drink, so whatever.


    I didn''t have much to prep, so I finished early and just started chatting with the viewers. Then, a swarm of TV reporters started closing in on me.


    "Are you Kisaragi Tsukasa, the EX-ranked explorer known as UNKNOWN? Could we ask you a few questions?"


    "Uh, is there anything I can really talk about?"


    "Why did you suddenly start revealing your personal information recently? What made you begin streaming?"


    "Could you comment on the other EXs?"


    "Do you have any thoughts on the Sapporo Dungeon conquest?"


    "What about your record-setting dive in the Shibuya Dungeon?" S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "You''re streaming during a serious dungeon conquest¡ªisn''t that a bit irresponsible?"


    Ugh¡­ I''m about to dive into the Sapporo Dungeon, and I''m being bombarded with questions. This is exactly the kind of thing I was trying to avoid by moving around all the time. Why do I have to deal with this even after coming all the way to Sapporo?


    : He looks super annoyed, LOL


    : Them saying it''s irresponsible is really annoying


    : They''re probably trying to rile you up


    : They think they can push him around because he''s 18


    : They don''t realize he''s one of the strongest humans alive


    : C''mon, reporters, have some tact


    : Ask him after the dungeon, geez


    : Gotta love that "freedom of the press," huh?


    "Pipe down, will ya? Quit your chirping."


    Whoa.


    Grandma''s mad because they were being too noisy. It seems like even the reporters understood that they''d crossed a line because the tone of the questions immediately softened, and the number of questions dropped significantly. Well, it''s no surprise. Even they know how scary Grandma can be.


    "We''re about to head out, Kisaragi."


    "Oh, got it."


    : Grandma, mad grandma is mad


    : Run, reporters, run


    : She''s terrifying


    : Honestly, understandable


    Sorry, media folks, but I''m really not a fan of interviews. If you want to send me a question via SNS, maybe I''ll respond. But barging into my space and demanding answers is a no-go.


    Even as we prepared to leave, some reporters were still pushing forward for more questions. But the moment I summoned my flaming chariot, Kasha, to draw my sword, they all scattered like cockroaches.


    : Scattered like bugs, LOL


    : They ran off, LOL


    : That flaming chariot will drag you to the underworld, man


    : I''d run too


    : If a burning car appeared out of nowhere, anyone would bolt


    "I''m so jealous¡­ I want an expanded bag too," Kamishiro pouted.


    "Please don''t call my shikigami an ''expanded bag.''"


    "Haha¡­ Well, it doesn''t look like we''ll have much trouble getting to the deep floors, so this should be easy."


    "These brats are gonna go all the way to the deep floors with this laid-back attitude? Did I raise them wrong?"


    No, you didn''t "raise" me at all, Grandma. You just dragged me through the lower and deep floors of dungeons while I screamed the whole way.


    "August 31st, 10:00 AM sharp¡­ We now begin the Sapporo Dungeon conquest."


    "Alright, let''s do this! Woo!"


    "...Let''s go."


    "Jeez, nobody''s joining in!?"


    : LOL


    : Is anyone here even motivated?


    : No tension at all


    : Is this really okay?


    : This could end up in history books, but¡­


    : Wait, what if Kisaragi''s stream ends up in history books?


    : LOL imagine the comments section getting written up too


    : Hey, future people reading this, what''s up?


    : Stop


    : I don''t want that in my history books


    : They''d probably censor it all anyway


    The comments section seems to be having fun on its own, so that''s fine.


    Still, an EX team tackling the Sapporo Dungeon¡­ Will we be over-prepared, or will we need every bit of strength we''ve got? I''m really looking forward to it. It''s the first time I''ll be heading into an unexplored deep floor¡ªthis is going to be exciting.

 Chapter 80 - 80: Silent Strikes in the Depths

    [...]


    [Say something already.]


    [...What floor are we on right now?]


    [40.]


    : Delivering the silent stream experience


    : Can''t be helped


    : This run is mainly about going beyond the 76th floor, right?


    : I heard the elite A and S ranks are handling it up to around the 60th floor


    : They''re saving their energy


    : They''re seriously here to clear this, huh


    Well, the country really is aiming to clear this dungeon for real, and they''ve brought a big group to make sure the EXs don''t get too worn out before we hit the deeper floors. But honestly, just standing around and watching the fights is starting to get boring.


    : The chat''s calming down a bit too


    : The media''s still saying a lot


    : But the media isn''t actually in the dungeon, right?


    : Are they watching Kisaragi''s stream?


    : Dunno


    : Maybe there''s someone with a camera in the A and S ranks?


    The media''s definitely trying to get their scoop on this large-scale dungeon clearance, pulling all sorts of strings. But no matter what, there''s no way reporters can get into the deeper layers. I thought it''d be fine if they used my stream footage for their broadcasts, but¡­ there are a few issues with that. Mostly, me and the chat bickering during the stream.


    Honestly, it''s not like my stream is the most proper or well-behaved. Broadcasting that live on TV would probably be a bit much.


    [So, I guess we''ll just keep going like this¡­ How about we kill time with some chat?]


    : Ah, it''s the usual


    : He''s starting again


    : Wait, isn''t this supposed to be a dungeon run?


    : Don''t worry, this is normal


    : We''re already in the lower floors though¡­


    : New viewers are probably confused as hell


    : Kisaragi, come on...


    [Wait, so no chat? I can just walk in silence while ignoring the camera, if that''s what you all want.]


    : Sorry, chat time, please


    : I''d actually like some dungeon explanation


    : Summer vacation''s ending soon, did you finish your homework?


    : Feels like the usual banter, haha


    : He''s still the same Kisaragi even with more viewers


    : Lol


    : Is that a compliment?


    : It''s definitely not


    I''m not exactly trying to be some highbrow dungeon streamer. My goal is to provide a stream that doesn''t bother anyone and is fun for everyone. So if I want to kill time with random chat while we walk, it''s not hurting anyone¡­ well, maybe the A and S rank fighters up ahead might not love it, but hey, I''m bored.


    [So, about the Sapporo Dungeon¡­ Where should I start explaining?]


    [It''s cold, and there''s a lot of golem-like enemies.]


    [Compared to Shibuya Dungeon, each floor isn''t that wide, I guess?]


    [Hey¡­ Kanna, Aizawa, don''t just randomly jump into the chat. You startled me.]


    : Surprised


    : Three EXs casually showing up on screen, lol


    : There''s no way other streamers can compete with this


    : The sheer power is overwhelming


    : Power card: "EX friends"


    : Ban this broken card


    : More EX collabs, please!


    : Make up your mind!


    : Lol


    : Even the chat''s divided on this, haha


    : Don''t worry about it, Kisaragi


    Even the chat''s freaking out with the sudden appearance of two EXs. Well, at least the regulars seem to be enjoying it, so that''s fine.


    While we kept up the random chat and walked around for a bit longer, we finally reached the 60th floor. The elite fighters leading us weren''t showing much fatigue and were keeping an eye on our surroundings. The Sapporo Dungeon, unlike the Shibuya Dungeon, doesn''t have floors with dramatically different environments.


    From the 1st floor to the deepest observed, the 76th floor, all of the floors are dimly lit ice caverns.


    The floors are smaller than those in the Shibuya Dungeon, but they''re much more maze-like and visibility is always poor. Plus, the enemies here are golem-like non-organic creatures, making them harder to detect, so ambushes are a lot more common.


    [So, from here on out, it''s our turn to take over, right?]


    [No, not yet. We''ll take over after we hit the floors past 77.]


    [Man¡­ honestly, I''m getting kinda bored.]


    [Don''t whine about it. You can handle this bit of walking.] S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [But, c''mon, it''s been all walking and no fighting up to the 60th floor¡­]


    : True, though


    : You''ve been chatting the whole time


    : Not a single fight so far


    : I wanna see an EX fight


    : I''m new here; can we get some flashy combat?


    : Didn''t the S ranks up ahead already have a pretty intense fight?


    : Yeah, they did


    : People here are getting too used to this


    : The new folks just said they''re first-timers


    [Well¡­ if it''s for the sake of the mission, I guess I can suck it up a bit.]


    [You''re so serious, Tsu-kun.]


    [Don''t call me Tsu-kun.]


    : Lol


    : Honestly, just keep going, we''re good


    : You never know what might happen


    : Weren''t you surprised by that unexpected fight in Shibuya Dungeon?


    [Oh, you mean that slime?]


    [Was that really a slime? It was basically an ocean.]


    : The ocean slime, right?


    : More like a sea monster


    : Kisaragi, summon a sea monster instead


    : Same difference


    : Lol


    : Nobody''s seen it, so nobody knows


    Exactly. Since I was the first one to discover it in the deepest part of Shibuya Dungeon, I get to name it. So it''s a slime. It had a core, and nothing worked on it except hitting the core. That''s a slime, period.


    : Looks like they''re fighting some golems


    : They''re taking their time with just three golems, huh


    : Well, it is three golems


    : Aren''t they supposed to disperse magic?


    : The bane of mages, lol


    [Hm?]


    Just as I stepped into the 60th floor while glancing at the comments, five giant golems appeared from a side passage. The elite fighters up ahead didn''t notice since they were a bit further ahead and busy fighting their own group of golems.


    The moment I noticed them, Aizawa, Kanna, and Grandma (Jinguji) did too.


    [Too slow.]


    As usual, Grandma moved first, obliterating the head of the golem in front with a single kick. Normally, these golems are a mage''s worst enemy since they can disperse magic. But Grandma''s on a different level.


    Before the remaining golems could react, Aizawa and I both moved. Aizawa sliced one in half with a sword infused with so much magic it had changed color, and I stepped over its body, cutting another one cleanly in two.


    [Take this!]


    Kanna followed up by firing a compressed beam of flame that vaporized the two unscathed golems along with the three damaged ones.


    [I see¡­ even a golem that disperses magic can''t withstand magic that''s been compressed to that degree. So that shield isn''t all-powerful after all.]


    [Well, if Aizawa reinforced it with her own magic, it probably would have deflected it.]


    [Pick up the magic stones, idiot daughter. Don''t just throw magic around and skip the cleanup.]


    [Okaaay.]


    : Are we the ones who are wrong here?


    : I blinked, and the five golems were gone


    : The elite fighters were struggling with just three


    : This is EX, huh¡­


    : This game has become too overpowered


    : I''m not laughing


    : Well, at least the new viewers are satisfied now, right? (nervous laughter)


    : They''d better be, lol


    : I can''t even laugh at this


    Don''t worry. When it comes to golems like that, we can take them down no problem.

 Chapter 81 - 81: Breaking Through the Ice

    [Should we take over soon? Fighting any deeper could result in injuries that would interfere with the exploration.]


    Once we passed the 70th floor, the elite team ahead of us began stopping more frequently. They were clearly starting to struggle with the monsters, and more and more of them were getting injured.


    Aizawa-san, noticing this, probably decided it was time to switch. Some of the elite fighters, despite being called the best, were hanging their heads in frustration, unable to push past the deepest known floors. But if a group of A and S ranks could easily clear dungeons, all the dungeons in the world would''ve been cleared to their last floor by now.


    [Good work, everyone.]


    [Finally our turn?]


    [¡­Please take this seriously, okay?]


    : Says the guy who should talk


    : Lol


    : Is this how the viewers treat him?


    : In a way, they trust him


    : From serious elite strategy to the shenanigans of 4 EXs


    : Shenanigans, lol


    : The mood sure changed fast


    [We''ll aim for the 76th floor for now. But considering how tough the monster encounters have been, the backup team should stay at the 59th floor.]


    [That''s reasonable. If you''re not strong enough, there''s no point in recklessly heading into the deeper levels.]


    : Harsh but fair


    : True


    : As long as no one dies, it''s fine


    : Deep floors are scary, man


    : This is my first time watching a deep floor stream


    : Even TV''s been covering the deep floor expedition


    Oh, they''re still broadcasting it live on TV. I guess the Sapporo Dungeon clearance is that important to the public. Or maybe it''s more about showing off the results to other countries. Either way, doesn''t really matter to me.


    [I''ll take over the camera from here on.]


    [Huh?]


    Aizawa-san? Is she planning to shoot proper footage for the live broadcast? Or maybe it''s for keeping official records for the Explorer''s Guild or something like that?


    [It''s from the association and the government. Apparently, the TV networks will be using this footage for the live broadcast. Well¡­ if Kisaragi-kun hadn''t asked if he could stream, maybe this wouldn''t have happened.]


    : Oh, I see


    : Nice one, Kisaragi


    : But I''m more interested in the laid-back deep floor exploration than some serious TV broadcast


    : Laid-back (in a dangerous zone)


    : It''s not just dangerous, it''s unexplored territory


    : At this point, it''s basically space exploration


    : This is too dangerous, lol


    "Space exploration" is pushing it. Dungeons have been cleared around the world, so it''s not that extreme.


    [Whatever, let''s hurry up! I''m starting to have fun!]


    [Don''t rush ahead, you idiot.]


    [Aww¡­]


    While I was helping Aizawa-san set up the camera, Kanna-san had already started walking off, and Grandma (Jinguji) was casually following behind her. And despite Aizawa-san warning against rushing earlier, she didn''t seem too concerned either.


    : This is the floor the elites struggled with, huh?


    : EX, man¡­


    : This is why EXs are just different


    : How many times have we seen this line?


    : Even past the 70th floor, they''re still so relaxed?


    : If this was my first Kisaragi stream, I''d have no idea what was going on


    : Do you even know what''s going on now?


    : Not at all, lol


    The path to the 76th floor has already been mapped out, and this is a non-shifting dungeon, so we''ll get there without much trouble. Beyond that, though, we''ll be exploring on the fly, looking for the stairs.


    [Oh, a monster!]


    When Kanna-san shouted, Aizawa-san and I looked over, only to see a black crystal golem being shattered by Grandma''s lightning-fast attack.


    : The golem''s head shattered before I even saw it


    : Kisaragi didn''t even notice lol


    : I was watching, but I didn''t see anything either


    : It looked like the golem just exploded on its own


    : So Jinguji Kaede really is the strongest, huh


    : Even at her age, still the strongest (confused) sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    If it''s just one golem, it''s over before Aizawa-san and I even turn our heads. No problem with that, so I go back to helping Aizawa-san set up the camera.


    : Just completely ignoring it, lol


    : He barely looked, haha


    : This is probably just another day for an EX


    : Lol


    : It''s not funny that this is normal


    Well, one or two golems aren''t dangerous enough to be a big deal for someone at our level. If we weren''t capable of crushing deep floor monsters like that, we wouldn''t be EXs.


    [Alright, this should be working now.]


    [Looks good. Shall we move on?]


    [Sure¡­ although two people seem to be moving on ahead.]


    [Don''t worry about it. That''s just how Grandma and Kanna are.]


    Grandma''s always been one to go her own way. She''s famous for just showing up in dungeons whenever she feels like it and bulldozing through the monsters. Despite that, she''s made such a huge impact as Japan''s strongest explorer that her reputation overseas is overwhelming.


    : The international viewers are going nuts about Jinguji Kaede


    : Obsessed fans, lol


    : She''s basically like those crazy otaku


    : Apparently, the Chinese are terrified of her


    : Can''t blame them


    : She''s basically a turbo granny, lol


    : Turbo granny but faster


    Well, Turbo Granny probably couldn''t break the sound barrier. But if there really was a monster like that, it''d be terrifying.


    : If Kisaragi''s shikigami are based on his imagination, does that mean if he imagines Turbo Granny¡­ he summons Jinguji Kaede?


    : Don''t summon people, that''s not allowed


    : Don''t try to make another EX


    : What if he actually summoned Jinguji Kaede instead of Turbo Granny?


    It''s really hard to recreate living humans using shikigami techniques. The Twelve Heavenly Generals are special because they''re tied to something else, but creating people with ordinary shikigami techniques is practically impossible.


    In short, no, it''s not happening.


    [Alright, the stream''s set up. Let''s get serious about exploring the dungeon now.]


    [Wait, so you weren''t being serious before?]


    [That''s not it. I was just letting others handle things up till now.]


    Ah¡­ for a second, I thought she was admitting that EXs never take dungeons seriously. Well, we''re not exactly going in with maximum tension either, but we''re not slacking off.


    In any case, now that it''s our turn, we''ve got to get serious. Whatever the government''s goals might be, my personal desire to explore deeper is what drives me forward.

 Chapter 82 - 82: The 77th Floor Challenge

    [We''ve arrived!]


    [So, this is the staircase that leads to the 77th floor.]


    I don''t know who it was that mapped out Sapporo Dungeon up to the 76th floor, but apparently, they reached this staircase leading to the 77th floor and then turned back. Maybe they ran out of supplies or their magic reserves were low¡ªthere could be a lot of reasons.


    In any case, everything beyond the 77th floor is truly unexplored. From the deeper levels up until this 76th floor, the number of monsters we''ve encountered has increased, but I didn''t notice much difference in the strength of the golems.


    When there are fewer of them, Grandma finishes them off instantly with a kick, and when there are more, Kanna fires magic that pierces through even the armor that scatters magic energy.


    The dungeon environment hasn''t changed significantly either. It''s still the same dimly lit cave with glowing crystals jutting out of the walls. I expected this to feel like a cold, northern dungeon in Hokkaido, but it hasn''t gotten anywhere near that feeling. The temperature is around 20¡ãC.


    [It''s been a while since we did a full deep-dive exploration.]


    [Aizawa, you sound like you''re having fun.]


    [Of course! I became an explorer because I actually enjoy dungeon crawling.]


    : That''s cute


    : Would be cuter if it wasn''t the deep floors


    : This cute banter is airing on live TV, you know


    : LOL


    : Well, it''s the usual


    : Not like they care much


    [Grandma''s more fired up than usual, and Kanna hasn''t gotten bored and wandered off yet, so I guess bringing four EXs together was the right move.]


    Honestly, more than just the firepower, it''s exciting to explore a dungeon with so many EXs. Sure, I''m looking forward to exploring the unknown floors, but more than that, it''s fun to mess around with everyone.


    : So Kisaragi has comrades, even if he doesn''t have friends


    : No friends though, LOL


    : They just casually pointed out he has no friends, lmao


    : It''s true though


    : Yeah, but still


    : Poor guy, lol


    The "no friends" teasing doesn''t bother me. I have an actual friend, Asakawa, so I''m different from you guys.


    When we reached the bottom of the stairs, the scenery didn''t change¡ªit was still just the cave. But from here on, we''re in completely unmapped territory. We''ll have to figure out which path to take as we go.


    [I''ll handle the mapping.]


    [Thanks for that.]


    [I''m charging ahead!]


    [Uh, Kanna, don''t just rush ahead when we don''t know where we''re going, okay?]


    Does she even know what "mapping" means? I''m not trying to map out the whole floor; I just want to find the proper path to the lower levels. Sure, mapping the entire area could eventually lead us to the shortest route, but Kanna''s "rush ahead" approach is pure intuition. Completely unreliable.


    [Alright, let''s go! First, straight ahead!]


    [Well, fine... ''Taijo'']


    : Oh?


    : New shikigami!


    : Hot guy alert!


    : Kisaragi just summoned a hot guy


    : Explode, you hot guy! (triggered)


    [...More paperwork, Master?]


    [Nope, I need you to map this out.]


    [Sigh¡­ understood.]


    Taijo, a tall, silver-haired hottie, is a benevolent god and a civil official serving the Emperor of Heaven. His appearance is mostly a product of my imagination, so he''s a tall, refined guy with narrow eyes¡ªa perfect, competent official. Even though I designed him, I''m kind of envious, so I secretly want him to explode.


    As a shikigami, Taijo is good at support-type magic, unlike Kijin. I mostly summon him for annoying paperwork, so summoning him in a dungeon is rare. This time, I called him to help with mapping.


    : Poor guy gets all the boring tasks


    : Kisaragi is such a terrible boss, lol


    : Using your shikigami like that, lol


    : Wait, I want a shikigami to do my taxes too


    : Does Kisaragi have his taxes done by Taijo? sea??h th§× n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : He probably does, right?


    [...Another fork in the road?]


    [Lots of them¡­ Well, even with a map, there have been this many splits along the way.]


    It''s annoying because it''ll take forever if we check every path, but I guess that''s just how this complex dungeon is designed. At least it''s not a maze like the Alice Springs Dungeon.


    I thought we''d go with a standard formation¡ªAizawa in the front, Kanna in the back, and me and Grandma in the middle. But in reality, Kanna and Grandma are just rushing ahead, and Aizawa and I are left trailing behind, marking the map. Those two clearly have no sense of their preferred fighting distance.


    Any golems that pop up in front are swiftly dealt with by Grandma, and Aizawa handles anything sneaking up from behind. Meanwhile, I''m just walking along, looking at Taijo''s map and thinking.


    [We''re back in the same spot.]


    [Yeah, we are.]


    We''ve been leaving markers on the ground to differentiate paths, but somehow we looped back around.


    : So if you go straight, turn right, you end up back here?


    : What if you go left?


    : Probably straight and left from the start


    : Watch, we took the wrong route from the beginning


    [Until we find the right path, we''ll just have to keep moving forward.]


    [Why don''t we just destroy the floor or something?]


    [If we do that, we won''t know how to get through next time.]


    [Also, no, we''re not breaking the dungeon, okay? It''s not about getting lost¡ªit''s just not a good idea.]


    Well, dungeons do repair themselves, so it''s faster to break through if we get lost, but¡­ it''s probably not a great idea.


    : He''s definitely considering it, though


    : Don''t make that face, Kisaragi, lol


    : Breaking the dungeon is definitely not okay


    : Who knows what would happen if you destroyed a dungeon floor?


    : What if the Sapporo Dungeon collapses because of it?


    Right¡­ The Sapporo Dungeon is under the city. If we recklessly destroy parts of it and affect the surface, it could be a disaster. Dungeons are powered by magic or something, so even though they go deep, we''re not necessarily near the Earth''s core. But who''s to say there won''t be consequences for the surface? Better not take that risk.

 Chapter 83 - 83: The Crystal Knights Test

    [What... is this place?]


    While I had Taijo record the map, we continued walking through the dungeon, and after descending the staircase from the 79th to the 80th floor, we arrived at a vast, open space. The ceiling was quite high, and it was a huge contrast to the narrow caves we had been walking through so far.


    [Can you see the stairs on the other side?]


    [...Yeah, they''re there.]


    [If there are stairs, then this probably isn''t the final floor.]


    : That surprised me.


    : Imagine if it was the final floor after just four more levels from 76.


    : It''s not impossible, though.


    : Didn''t something like that happen overseas?


    : Yeah, there was a story where the floor right below the highest reached floor turned out to be the final one.


    You can''t know where the final floor of a dungeon is until you reach it. So even if the final floor is just one level down, you won''t know unless you go and check. Though, in the deeper floors, going down even one level can be a life-or-death situation, so it''s not something to take lightly.


    Still, the glowing minerals sticking out of the ground remain the same. The vastness of the space reminds me of the 75th floor of the Shibuya Dungeon. That area also had a huge open space¡­ and a powerful monster. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [Oh.]


    [Huh?]


    Responding to Kanna''s exclamation, I looked ahead and saw what appeared to be a knight statue, its entire body made of crystal. No, it wasn''t a statue¡ªit was a monster. Most likely a golem-type creature, similar to the others that scatter magic. It wasn''t that big, standing about three meters tall, but in the deep floors, the smaller monsters are often the more troublesome ones.


    : That''s cool!


    : It''s got a lot of style.


    : A crystal knight? That''s super badass.


    : Looks strong.


    : Wonder if it moves.


    [It''s our first time seeing this type of monster, so maybe we should observe¡ª]


    [Strike first!]


    [Of course.]


    Yeah... it was probably a waste of time expecting Kanna and Grandma to be rational. Kanna will attack anything that makes eye contact, and Grandma always goes all out from the start once she identifies something as an enemy.


    Despite Kanna starting her attack first, Grandma reached the knight first and delivered a kick to its face as usual. But unlike the other golems, this one didn''t even flinch from Grandma''s kick. Kanna followed up with a beam of compressed flames, but the knight casually blocked it with its shield.


    [Finally, something that''s worth fighting.]


    [Hmm¡­ should I turn up the heat a bit more?]


    [I''ll take the front lines. Kisaragi, back me up.]


    [Got it.]


    : Is this the first real challenge for the EXs?


    : Finally, some serious action.


    : I''m getting nervous, too.


    : If these four can''t clear this dungeon, it''s never getting done.


    : That''s a bit much, lol.


    : Maybe for a few hundred years, though.


    : Fair point.


    Since the knight scatters magic, Kanna''s spells likely won''t be enough to break through. That leaves us with physical attacks... but if Grandma''s kick didn''t work, we''re in trouble.


    [Taijo, support Aizawa.]


    [Understood.]


    [Kijin!]


    [Finally, my turn!]


    You''re too loud.


    : Oh no, here we go


    : Lol


    : At first, viewers thought she was just a pretty girl, but now¡­


    : She brought this on herself.


    : This shikigami has way too much personality, lol.


    : As a first-time viewer, she still just looks like a beautiful woman to me, though?


    : Give it time. You''ll see.


    The crystal knight began swinging its sword at Aizawa, who had closed in. It wasn''t particularly fast, but judging by the cracks it left in the ground with each strike, it packed a punch. Still, I wasn''t too worried since Aizawa excels at close combat with a sword and shield, so I stayed focused on providing backup from behind.


    Meanwhile, Grandma kept darting in, landing quick kicks on the knight. Even though it didn''t look like her strikes were doing much, she wouldn''t keep doing it if she didn''t sense something.


    [Uh, what are you doing?]


    [Oh? I''m prepping a spell.]


    : What the heck?


    : What is that?


    : Is she making a mini sun?


    : Why is she conjuring the sun in her hands?!


    : This woman is terrifying.


    I felt the temperature rising and turned around to see Kanna raising her hands, and in them, a large ball of fire, roughly the size of a basketball. When I asked what she was doing, she casually said she was casting a spell, but even as we spoke, the fireball kept growing larger.


    [Yeah, I thought the last attack didn''t pack enough punch, so I''m boosting it.]


    [...Kijin, help control that fire.]


    [Once again with this woman... How many times will she burden you, Master?]


    You''re not one to talk, Kijin.


    : What''s he even saying?


    : You too, Kijin!


    : Gotta love the Twelve Heavenly Generals¡­ even their boomerangs hit perfectly.


    [Aizawa, you might want to watch your back. Kanna''s about to go wild with another reckless spell.]


    [Uh¡­ why do I need to watch out for my allies while exploring the deep floors?]


    [It can''t be helped. Both Kanna and Master are terribly carefree.]


    [True, but still¡­]


    Oi, Taijo. You''re my shikigami, so I can hear your thoughts no matter where you are. Don''t badmouth me in front of the viewers, or they''ll start giving me grief too.


    [Here we go!]


    Kanna''s fireball, which had grown to several meters in diameter, was suddenly compressed down to the size of a baseball. It was so condensed that it seemed to tremble, with white light leaking from it. Can you even throw something like that safely? Unfazed by my concerns, Kanna launched the compressed fireball at the crystal knight with Kijin''s help.


    [Whoa!]


    [Gouchen!]


    Realizing it was about to cause massive destruction, I quickly summoned Gouchen to protect everyone with a barrier. At the same time, Kanna''s fireball slammed into the knight''s shield and exploded.


    As a result, Kanna''s compressed flame magic scorched the entire 80th floor of Sapporo Dungeon in an instant.

 Chapter 84 - 84: The Awakening of the Lizard King

    [...What a Natural disaster.]


    The words just slipped out of my mouth as a bit of an insult. But honestly, can you blame me this time? Kanna had really outdone herself with that attack.


    : Brutal


    : Not human


    : Can people even cast magic like this?


    : This isn''t the kind of magic I know.


    : Wait, if one person can do this, that''s insane.


    : And there are three more like her here¡­


    I have a lot to say about Kanna''s reckless behavior¡ªlike how she almost hit her own allies¡ªbut for now, I need to deal with the crystal knight that''s still coming toward us, albeit barely. After taking the full brunt of Kanna''s compressed fire spell, the knight''s left arm had completely melted, and its body was deformed, but somehow, it was still walking.


    Though it was just barely standing, it clearly had no fight left.


    : How is it still alive after that?


    : This is what makes the uncharted depths so terrifying.


    : The deep floors really are something else.


    : It''s exciting to watch, but if I ran into something like that, I''d get chills.


    : No wonder dungeon exploration hasn''t progressed much.


    Aizawa took a step forward and finished off the battered crystal knight with a swift slash. That''s it for the 80th floor. I''m not sure how often monsters like this respawn, but floors with big, open spaces and strong monsters usually don''t have others spawning. If the interval is long enough, this might even be a good resting spot... though that''s still uncertain.


    [Alright, that''s done.]


    [That was quick!]


    [You should at least show some remorse for your actions.]


    [S-Sorry...]


    : Kisaragi always gets her to back down, lol.


    : At least she knows she went overboard.


    : She''s aware, huh?


    : If she wasn''t, I''d question her humanity.


    : Isn''t she already pushing it as a human?


    : She almost collapsed the dungeon, after all.


    : Her power is already beyond human anyway.


    : True, none of them are exactly "normal."


    [So, should we keep going, or take a break? I don''t know the respawn intervals for monsters like that.]


    [Let''s keep moving. Running into that thing again on the way back would be a pain.]


    [Agreed. We can figure out the spawn intervals when we need to.]


    Well, the goal this time is to reach the bottom floor of the Sapporo Dungeon, not to explore every nook and cranny. So, the sooner we reach the bottom, the better. With three votes in favor of moving forward, it''s decided. Kanna''s vote doesn''t count right now, so it''s unanimous.


    We proceed down the staircase to the 81st floor, which opened into yet another vast, open space.


    [Ah...]


    [...Yeah.]


    : Someone say something.


    : Didn''t we just see this?


    : Are we stuck in a loop?


    : We definitely went down the stairs, right?


    : It''s not exactly the same, but it''s close.


    The main difference on the 81st floor was that it was brightly lit. In the distance, a large crystal, glowing as brightly as an LED light, was embedded in the ground, illuminating the entire space. The room was larger than the last one, with a much higher ceiling. The top of the chamber was so far away it seemed to blur into the darkness.


    [I don''t see any stairs.]


    [Is this the final floor?]


    [Maybe¡­ but we won''t know until we check behind that big crystal.]


    [Be careful. I can feel a killing intent.]


    I could sense it too. The moment we stepped into the 81st floor, a heavy aura of hostility washed over us. There were no monsters in sight yet, but something out there had definitely locked onto us.


    I summoned Gouchen and set up a barrier around the party as we moved forward. In a place like this, we could get attacked from anywhere at any time. As I was thinking that, the massive crystal in front of us started to move. It wasn''t a huge surprise¡ªthese kinds of things happen in dungeon exploration games¡ªbut I wasn''t expecting the crystal itself to be a monster.


    [...Is that a dragon?]


    [Looks more like a lizard.]


    [Is there really a difference?]


    The massive crystal had legs and a tail, looking more like a lizard than a dragon. It was at least ten meters long from head to tail, and the crystal on its back was blindingly bright. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Is it a lizard?


    : I don''t know if I''d call that a dragon¡­


    : It doesn''t have horns, so it''s just a lizard.


    : Yeah.


    : Way too big, though.


    It slowly exhaled, walking toward us with clear malice, clearly contemplating how to attack.


    [Quit dragging your feet!]


    Grandma, as usual, wasn''t going to wait for it to make the first move. She shot forward at lightning speed, aiming a ball of compressed magic at the lizard''s jaw, likely remembering how hard the crystal knight had been.


    [''Great Centipede.'']


    Taking that as a cue, I summoned my Great Centipede to charge at the lizard. At the same time, Aizawa rushed in with her shield raised, and Kanna sent a bolt of lightning from her fingertips.


    The lizard shrugged off Grandma''s magic blast, pinned the Great Centipede with its front legs, biting off its head, and spat shards of crystal at Aizawa to keep her at bay. It didn''t even bother defending against Kanna''s lightning attack.


    As expected of a monster from the deepest floors, this one wasn''t going down easily. Looks like I''ll need to get serious too. No time to glance at the stream comments now. I turned off my watch and focused on the fight.


    [It''s too tough¡­ Should I use another big spell?]


    [I don''t think that''s enough to kill this thing.]


    While Kanna and I debated what to do, Aizawa reinforced her sword with magic and slashed at the lizard''s crystalline body, but it barely left a scratch.


    [What an annoying lizard.]


    While I was thinking about our next move, Grandma thrust her arms forward. I wasn''t sure what she was planning, but the crystals growing from the cave walls began breaking off, gathering in front of her to form a large cluster.


    [You''d better dodge!]


    [I''m on it!]


    Grandma strengthened the cluster of crystals with her own magic and then hurled it at the crystal lizard. As the barrage of crystal shards rained down, each one hitting with enough force to crater the ground, Aizawa didn''t back off. She closed the distance, thrusting her sword forward.


    Even a simple thrust wouldn''t damage the lizard, but the compressed magical blade at the tip of her sword pierced through the lizard''s crystal armor and into its side.


    Man¡­ the two of them are really pulling off some crazy moves.

 Chapter 85 - 85: Final Blow

    With Aizawa''s strike, the battle was pretty much over. Gouchen wasn''t needed anymore, and now it was just a matter of delivering the final blow.


    [It''s bleeding from inside the crystal?]


    [So it''s not a crystal lizard; it''s a lizard covered in crystal.]


    [That means we just need to aim for that weak spot in the side!]


    The lizard, now with a hole in its armor, would obviously try to protect its weak point. But with four of us attacking, it was only a matter of time before we won.


    [White Tiger.]


    My fastest shikigami, Byakko, wouldn''t get in Grandma or Kanna''s way. As soon as it was summoned, it used its magic to coat its body in steel. Byakko''s sharp claws were covered with new, reinforced steel, and its entire body was encased in armor, giving it the appearance of some kind of mechanical beast. It reminds me of the robotic animals you see in anime.


    Grandma dashed forward at blinding speed, breaking the ground as she moved, and Byakko matched her, charging toward the same target: the lizard''s exposed side.


    [What!? My magic bounced off!]


    [Seiryu.]


    Sensing danger, the lizard curled up to protect its vulnerable side and began rolling, trying to crush Aizawa. It was already massive, and the crystal it was covered in deflected magic, making it even more of a hassle. It easily shrugged off Kanna''s wind spell. Breaking through that kind of armor meant relying on Aizawa to handle the job.


    Well, my role here is support. As long as the other three handle the firepower, I can just focus on making things easier for them.


    Seiryu, like Byakko, is one of the Four Guardian Beasts. Seiryu, the Azure Dragon, is a green dragon that guards the east and controls wood in the Five Elements theory. Its magic, as you''d expect, involves manipulating trees.


    [Watch your feet. I''m going to grow some trees.]


    The best way I could think of to stop the rolling lizard was to create massive trees using Seiryu''s power. As the lizard crashed into them, the trees, strengthened by Seiryu''s magic, began to slow its rotation, roots extending in all directions to bind its limbs and pull it to a stop.


    [The side is exposed!]


    [Byakko!]


    [Now it''s an easier target.]


    Grandma was the first to react, firing an explosive magic shot directly into the exposed side. I have no idea how she manages to get that much power out of a magic shot with no elemental attributes, but pieces of the lizard''s flesh flew everywhere.


    As Grandma pulled back, Byakko leaped forward, driving its claws into the lizard''s body. For good measure, Aizawa sent another magical blade that shattered the lizard''s head, and Kanna''s incomprehensible lightning spell burned its flesh through the gaps in the shattered crystal.


    : That''s overkill.


    : Poor thing.


    : It put up a decent fight, though.


    : Is this seriously the final boss of the dungeon?


    : Shouldn''t Japan be clearing dungeons nationwide already?


    : Agreed.


    : Are there any obstacles to that?


    : It''s probably all about politics and vested interests.


    Checking the comments again after switching my watch back on, I saw a flood of foreign language messages zooming by, but the regulars were taking things much more casually.


    [Aah! Tsu-kun is getting distracted!]


    [Well, it''s over, isn''t it?]


    [Just because it''s over doesn''t mean you should be glued to your phone, kid. You''re just like those young people addicted to their phones.]


    Shut up, Grandma. Sure, modern people check their phones at every chance they get, but people were complaining about "youth and their phones" back in your day too. Clearly, it''s a problem that''s never going away.


    Besides, my role in this fight was purely support. I should be allowed to check my phone for a bit, right?


    : Are you reading the chat, Kisaragi?


    : Yaaay!


    : He looks so annoyed, lol.


    : Who''s the extrovert that said "yaaay" like that?


    : Are there even any extroverts here?


    : If there are, kick them out! This is an introvert community!


    : So toxic it hurts, lol. sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    [What do you think the media is doing up there right now?]


    [They''re probably having a field day. I thought this dungeon would have 100 floors, though... it ended at the 81st floor. Kinda disappointing!]


    [It was just an estimate, after all.]


    [Quit fooling around and figure out what to do with this corpse!]


    Oh, right. I''ve only seen one other final boss monster¡ªlike the crab in Takayama Dungeon¡ªand even though this crystal lizard is definitely dead, its body isn''t disappearing. Not all final boss monsters leave behind a corpse, as I''ve heard that some disappear even in overseas dungeons.


    [Wow... the purity of this crystal is amazing. I could probably make a new shield out of it.]


    [Another shield? Aizawa, you really like shields, huh?]


    [Do I? But it''s the most reliable form of defense in dungeon exploration, you know?]


    [I''ll just stick with magic barriers for defense.]


    [Uh... we''re not going to be able to take all of this crystal, are we?]


    [Don''t be ridiculous... though, yeah, we can''t carry it all.]


    [I think we should just take the crystal and leave the rest.]


    : Ah, the Sapporo Dungeon''s been fully cleared.


    : EXs are terrifying.


    : Can''t we get some new EXs soon?


    : If anyone thinks they can become an EX after seeing this, I question their sanity.


    : Even if more EXs popped up, wouldn''t that be a problem?


    : Honestly, EXs seem like bugs in the system.


    : Aizawa''s attacks were the most "normal" ones.


    : "Normal" (piercing super-hard crystal).


    : What does "normal" even mean anymore?


    : Someone who does shockwave thrusts isn''t "normal."


    : It''s already all over the news, lol.


    : Breaking news everywhere.


    : They''re making such a big deal about it overseas. Tomorrow will be wall-to-wall coverage of the Sapporo Dungeon clearance.


    : There''s so much footage too.


    It seems things are getting pretty wild outside. With my and Aizawa''s stream, the Guild should already know the dungeon''s been cleared. But even if they do, none of the elite forces can meet us here on the 80th floor, so we''ll have to gather up the crystals and make our way out on our own.


    What a hassle... I wish there was some kind of elevator that went straight down to the bottom. But since the dungeon repairs itself, that''s impossible. Heading back up is always the most annoying part of dungeon exploration.

 Chapter 86 - 86: Thread 11: Kisaragi Tsukasas Triumph

    1: Anonymous Explorer


    Thread to discuss UNKNOWN (Real name: Kisaragi Tsukasa), an EX-rank explorer.


    Feel free to talk about both his dungeon explorations and the streams on Kisaragi Tsukasa''s channel.


    Previous thread:


    [EX-rank Explorer] UNKNOWN Part 144 [Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Social media accounts


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Next thread should be created by whoever hits post 950.


    If you can''t manage it, let someone else know early.


    The previous thread filled up fast, so I made this one.


    With how fast these threads are moving, maybe the person at 900 should start the new thread.


    2: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks.


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Appreciate it.


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks. Things have calmed down a bit after the stream, so 950 should be fine.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe switch to 900 during streams?


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really necessary? The thread only blew up because all the EXs were gathered to clear the Sapporo Dungeon''s final floor, right?


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    Who knows? This thread can speed up at random times.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    950 seems fine for now.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t it because the media acts like trash that they''re treated as such?


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s how it always is.


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    Felt worse than usual this time. Who bombards explorers with questions right after they finish exploring the deep layers?


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    They watched the same stream we did, right? The one where these guys showed inhuman strength. Honestly, I kind of respect the nerve of people who can still be that rude.


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾9


    They''re trash for a reason. It''d be great if they went extinct already.


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    The anti-thread''s blowing up too. Kisaragi''s completely taken over as the top dungeon streamer. With this stream, his subscribers easily passed one million, and they''re still skyrocketing.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾14


    He''s getting a lot of international subscribers. He''ll probably hit ten million in no time, especially since he doesn''t cater just to a Japanese audience.


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    Not catering just to Japan (but only speaks Japanese).


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, even we don''t always understand what Kisaragi is saying, so it''s fine.


    18: Anonymous Explorer


    People are hyping him up, but didn''t he just watch from the sidelines this time? Wasn''t he pretty useless? We didn''t need the weakest EX for this.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m satisfied just watching deep-floor streams. Sometimes I watch international ones too. I can''t understand the language, so I''m never sure if it''s upper or mid-floor, but it''s fun.


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾18


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel Anti-Thread Part 53


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t the Sapporo Dungeon really dark and creepy? The EXs looked fine, though.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m just happy I got to watch Jinguji Kaede fight live. Thanks, Kisaragi.


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    This might be the first time we''ve seen Jinguji Kaede''s battles in a stream. She''s never cared about that kind of stuff before.


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    Who said EX Salaryman was the "normal" one of the group? That was a lie. He''s a monster just like the others.


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾24


    He''s an EX, of course he''s not normal.


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    The Sapporo Dungeon thread is in chaos right now.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾26


    Well, it just got cleared.


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi didn''t do anything useful. Useless trash. LOL. Just quit being an EX and stop streaming. LOL.


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾28


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel Anti-Thread Part 53


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾28


    Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel Anti-Thread Part 53


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾29


    £¾£¾30


    Lol, you two are like best friends.


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    Looks like we''ve got some weirdos here.


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾32


    Yeah, they''re a fusion of trolls, EX haters, and weirdos. Just ignore them. They can''t even type properly.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾33


    Best not to poke the trolls.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe just ban them?


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi summoning dragons was seriously cool.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    That was Seiryu, not a dragon.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾37


    Whatever, same thing lol.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, I get that it''s not the same, but it''s not really a big deal either.


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    It was hilarious when he summoned that handsome guy. Guess he can imagine someone better-looking than himself.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Give him a break, lol.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    Come on, even otakus can imagine beautiful 2D girls, so of course he can. You all fantasize about cute girls even though your own faces are wrecked.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Wow, way to start a fight.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾42


    You''re no different, lol.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    Why are missiles flying around this thread?


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s because Kisaragi''s like a tactical nuke himself. (Random)


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    Since he cleared the Sapporo Dungeon, I guess he''ll take a break from streaming for a bit. EX explorers probably have a lot of other work to do.


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    After seeing this, it feels like EXs should be used more for dungeon clearances rather than other jobs.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    Why don''t they have them clear more dungeons?


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s no real benefit to clearing them. It''s a pain because of all the politics involved.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, even if they clear the bottom floors, the only thing they gain is fame. The money from magic stones ends up in politicians'' pockets whether or not the dungeon is cleared. So the government-affiliated Explorers Association has no real reason to clear dungeons.


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    Corruption at its finest.


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾52


    This has been going on for a while though, hasn''t it?


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    They probably see EX explorers as just pawns in their game. They assign them to various problems while they sit back and rake in the money. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, they think they can control something as dangerous as an EX like it''s just a tool? Are they idiots?


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    If an EX bites back, it''s not just a simple problem. The whole country could disappear with that level of power.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    If the politicians had any brains, they wouldn''t be the symbol of incompetence that they are.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi is the real incompetent one. LOL. He relies on his shikigami for everything, a total fraud. Just quit streaming already. LOL.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    Ban: £¾£¾58


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾59


    Thanks, mod.


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, that was getting annoying.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾59


    Nice job, mod.


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    How many of the Twelve Heavenly Generals has Kisaragi summoned? I only remember Kijin and Byakko.


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    I don''t even know much about the Twelve Heavenly Generals.


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    Who understands all that Buddhist stuff? I''m just watching Kisaragi''s streams for the vibes.


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾65


    If you''ve watched his streams, you should at least know which shikigami he''s summoning, right?


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾63


    Kijin: Black-haired, beautiful but slightly unfortunate woman, Kisaragi''s annoying fan, seems to be a versatile support-type shikigami.


    Byakko: White tiger that uses iron-manipulating magic, very fast.


    Kouchin: Can''t see it, but it''s supposedly there. Specializes in barriers.


    Seiryu: Green dragon, uses wood-based magic.


    Taijou: White-haired, narrow-eyed handsome guy, support role.


    Tenkuu: Silver-haired beauty, uses weather-control magic.


    That''s what I remember so far. I missed a few streams though, so if I forgot any, feel free to add them.


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾67


    Thanks for the detailed summary!


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Wow, didn''t realize he''d summoned that many already.


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    I might not remember who''s who, but I do recall that Kijin and Tenkuu are both beautiful.


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m jealous of Taijou. He''s too handsome. But having him do your paperwork sounds pretty great.


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish Taijou would handle my taxes too.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop trying to shove all your paperwork onto a shikigami.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    I should learn shikigami magic too, then summon one to do my taxes. Honestly, tax documents are the real enemy for dungeon explorers.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾74


    I feel that on a spiritual level.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to pet Byakko. Can it talk? I''d love if it spoke human language.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    It''d be terrifying if a tiger suddenly started talking. Though if Kisaragi imagines it, maybe it could happen.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾77


    What? Talking animals are the dream. If that fluffy, handsome Byakko started talking, I''d lose my mind.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this person a serious furry?


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    This thread is getting wild with strange fetishes. LOL.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    So the ones left are Touda, Suzaku, Rokkoku, Tenko, Taiin, and Genbu, right?


    We''ve seen half of them now. Should we say Kisaragi''s revealed half his cards, or does he still have plenty left up his sleeve?


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    He can summon gods, so his hand is basically limitless. He''s strong enough to instantly kill anything from Shibuya Dungeon''s 80th floor and beyond.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    If he didn''t care about collateral damage, he could''ve probably one-shot the final boss of the Sapporo Dungeon by summoning a god.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    He might be avoiding that because summoning gods has some unknown consequences. Didn''t he say he was totally exhausted the last time he summoned one?


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    Only people who know shikigami magic would understand that.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    Has anyone besides Kisaragi actually used shikigami magic?


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    Nope, never seen anyone else.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    If anyone else knew how, we''d definitely be talking about them.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    I know someone who can use it.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    Shikigami magic users are just urban legends, right?


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾89


    £¾£¾90


    Wait, they exist!?


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾89


    Are you serious?


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    For real. They''re not as strong as Kisaragi, but they can use shikigami magic.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    No way. I thought Kisaragi just made that up. Guess it''s real.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ll expel you from the academic community for spreading nonsense.


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, shikigami magic is actually a secret technique passed down through a single lineage. No idea how Kisaragi got his hands on it though.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    Didn''t Kisaragi say he found it in a book given to him by Jinguji Kaede?


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾97


    LOL


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾97


    Seriously?


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾97


    That''s such a careless way to pass down a secret technique.


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    Is that really okay for a secret art passed down through generations?


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    So Kisaragi is now a rare case of passing down a one-person technique through a completely different method. Kisaragi, please take good care of that book from Jinguji Kaede. Don''t accidentally recycle it or sell it to a secondhand store.


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾102


    I can totally imagine him accidentally throwing it away. He better not, right? Right?


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    Is he really going to be okay? LOL.


    105: Anonymous Explorer


    I want to believe he''ll be fine, but it''s Kisaragi, so I''m not sure...


    106: Anonymous Explorer


    [Image]


    107: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, what''s this?


    108: Anonymous Explorer


    Is this some kind of hunter''s trophy or something?


    109: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾108


    LOL


    110: Anonymous Explorer


    "We successfully cleared the Sapporo Dungeon by defeating the Giant Crystal Lizard. Here''s the loot we got: crystal from the lizard. Apparently, its purity is way higher than the golems we''ve seen in this dungeon, so Aizawa-san was really happy. Seems like she''s planning to upgrade her shield again."


    111: Anonymous Explorer


    Salaryman LOL.


    112: Anonymous Explorer


    Salaryman''s loving it.


    113: Anonymous Explorer


    Since I''ve been watching Kisaragi''s streams from the start, it''s hilarious seeing the general public lose their minds now. Makes me feel like an OG.


    114: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾113


    Classic forum behavior, always flexing on the mainstream.


    115: Anonymous Explorer


    Us NEETs, watching from the sidelines as usual.

 Chapter 87 - 87: Thread 12: he Aftermath and Reactions

    320: Anonymous Explorer


    The End


    321: Anonymous Explorer


    That was quick.


    322: Anonymous Explorer


    Did it really end in a single day? LOL.


    323: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t there a dungeon streamer from Sapporo who was all like, "I''m going to conquer the Sapporo Dungeon someday!" How did that turn out?


    324: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾323


    Yeah, they got completely steamrolled by a random group of four sent by the government.


    325: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL. Is this the modern-day Ezo Conquest?


    326: Anonymous Explorer


    A group dispatched from the Imperial Court (the government) to subdue the Ezo (the unexplored dungeon). It really is the Ezo Conquest. So that makes Kisaragi the Shogun of the expedition.


    327: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s like Sakanoue no Tamuramaro.


    328: Anonymous Explorer


    Are we having a history lesson now?


    329: Anonymous Explorer


    But isn''t the salaryman more like the Shogun? He was the one leading the party.


    330: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾329


    Nah, the salaryman was just organizing things because he''s the only sane one. Jinguji Kaede was really the one at the center of it all.


    331: Anonymous Explorer


    At the center? More like she was the berserker charging ahead into battle.


    332: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamishiro Rion was also charging ahead, so it''s fine. EX ranks are just a bunch of savages.


    333: Anonymous Explorer


    Now that the Sapporo Dungeon has been conquered, the number of visitors won''t really change. Just look at the Takayama Dungeon. It was fully conquered, but nothing changed there either.


    334: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, even if the deep floors are cleared, it doesn''t affect the explorers in the upper and middle floors at all. The only ones making a fuss about this are regular people who don''t even go into dungeons.


    335: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve heard more tourists will start coming, though, including some explorers from abroad for sightseeing.


    336: Anonymous Explorer


    Just being known as a dungeon with cleared deep floors makes it a hot topic.


    337: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾335


    I remember hearing something similar when a dungeon in another country was cleared. Non-explorers would visit the entrance for sightseeing, and WDAO-member countries allow explorers some freedom to explore, so it attracted a lot of people.


    338: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾334


    The media''s going crazy too. They tried asking the EX group a bunch of questions without any regard, and Jinguji Kaede just glared at them.


    339: Anonymous Explorer


    I was at the entrance of the Sapporo Dungeon when the EX explorers came back, and the place was swarming with reporters. Why are there so many media outlets?


    340: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾339


    Apparently, it''s so they can "keep each other in check" and ensure neutral reporting¡­ But in reality, it''s all biased reporting and privacy invasions.


    341: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m a small-time explorer mainly working in the Sapporo Dungeon. Watching the deep-floor streams doesn''t help me understand anything.


    342: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s expected.


    343: Anonymous Explorer


    To the regulars who can reach the deep floors, this might just feel like another instance of EX explorers stealing all the glory. But for those of us stuck on the upper floors, nothing changes.


    344: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not that we''re stuck. The upper floors of Sapporo Dungeon are popular because the monsters are predictable and easy to handle. The people there don''t have any ambition to move up to the middle floors.


    345: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, the upper floors of Sapporo Dungeon only have specific types of monsters, and there''s never been any exceptions. It''s basically an unchanging dungeon.


    346: Anonymous Explorer


    You mean those small, glass-like golem things?


    347: Anonymous Explorer


    Small (1 meter).


    348: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s still pretty small.


    349: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re made of glass, so they''re incredibly fragile. You can just take a basic iron club, smash them, and get magic stones. It''s probably the easiest place in Japan to make money from the upper floors.


    350: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Shibuya Dungeon''s upper floors have those ridiculously hard Steel Ants. That''s just unfair.


    351: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾349


    In the upper floors of Takayama Dungeon, you can hunt big, but relatively weak, chickens and sell their meat for more than magic stones. Though there aren''t that many of them.


    352: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s pointless if you can''t find them. Sapporo''s glass golems are everywhere.


    353: Anonymous Explorer


    Just go to the middle floors.


    354: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors start introducing all sorts of weird monsters. No thanks.


    355: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle floors of Sapporo Dungeon are seriously tougher than those in Shibuya.


    356: Anonymous Explorer


    The upper floors of Shibuya are harder, but once you hit the middle floors, Sapporo''s dungeon gets way tougher. No idea about the lower floors, though.


    357: Anonymous Explorer


    But from what I''ve seen, the deep floors of Shibuya Dungeon are way worse. Just watch Kisaragi''s streams.


    [Clip] Shocking! Deep Floors of Shibuya Dungeon


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    358: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, after a dungeon''s been conquered, I kinda lose interest in going there. Are there any other good dungeons?


    359: Anonymous Explorer


    We''ve got dungeon "purity fanboys" now?


    360: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾359


    LOL.


    361: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾359


    Dungeon purity fanboys. LOL. That''s hilarious.


    362: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾359


    I hate myself for laughing at something so dumb.


    363: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾358


    That attitude is why you''re stuck on the upper floors.


    364: Anonymous Explorer


    So, you''re saying, "I''m not going to the conquered Sapporo Dungeon because it''s used goods. I''ll go to an unconquered dungeon instead"? You''ve gotta be joking. Do you even realize how far apart dungeons are?


    365: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the nearest dungeon to Sapporo?


    366: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably Wakkanai''s?


    367: Anonymous Explorer


    Isn''t Aomori''s dungeon closer in a straight line?


    368: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾366


    £¾£¾367


    This is what I''m talking about. If you want to make a living off dungeons, you have to live near one.


    369: Anonymous Explorer


    So, the people living near Nagoya Dungeon, which no one can conquer, are the weakest?


    370: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾369


    Can''t argue with that¡­ Aichi is pretty much screwed.


    371: Anonymous Explorer


    But the Takayama and Ise dungeons are nearby. (whispers)


    372: Anonymous Explorer


    Ise isn''t that close.


    373: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s still a million times better than the distance between Sapporo and Wakkanai.


    374: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL. People always underestimate how huge Hokkaido is.


    375: Anonymous Explorer


    I live in Sapporo, but I''ve never been to a dungeon. I don''t even know much about magic. I''ve never taken a magic aptitude test¡ªjust a NEET.


    376: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾375


    As a NEET, it''s probably too physically demanding for you, so just don''t bother.


    377: Anonymous Explorer


    You might think you''ve got some hidden power that''ll make you rich, but in reality, only people willing to risk their lives make money from this. It''s not something a NEET sitting around on a forum could handle.


    378: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re better off getting a regular part-time job.


    379: Anonymous Explorer


    You can''t even do that, which is why you''re a NEET.


    380: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    381: Anonymous Explorer


    People might think being an explorer is an easy job, but the top explorers make an absurd amount of money.


    382: Anonymous Explorer


    Only the top guys get rich, though. Same as in any company. The execs get paid several times more than your annual salary¡ªjust from bonuses.


    But I wouldn''t know.


    383: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, Sapporo Dungeon isn''t that great for making money. It''s pretty much the same as Shibuya. I tried going to the middle floors last month and ended up in the hospital.


    384: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re lucky to be alive.


    385: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾383


    Almost died. LOL.


    386: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re lucky it was just a hospital stay. Plenty of people get greedy and end up dead in the deeper floors.


    387: Anonymous Explorer


    The middle and lower floors of Sapporo Dungeon all look the same. It''s hard to even tell where you are.


    388: Anonymous Explorer


    You should take notes every time you go down a staircase. Makes it easier to track where you are.


    389: Anonymous Explorer


    Is there an age limit for becoming an explorer?


    390: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like getting a driver''s license. You can do it even if you''re 60 or 80. Whether you can actually explore dungeons is another question, though.


    391: Anonymous Explorer


    I quit my job because my company was terrible. Thinking of trying my hand at being an explorer.


    392: Anonymous Explorer


    Don''t do it.


    393: Anonymous Explorer


    Here it is¡ªthe classic explorer failure story. "I quit my job because it was awful, so now I''m going to become an explorer." I''ve never seen a real one until now. LOL.


    394: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾391


    Make sure you take a magic aptitude test first. To qualify as an explorer, you need a magic level of about 20. But to get to the middle floors, you''ll need at least 50.


    395: Anonymous Explorer


    What''s the magic level even based on?


    396: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s calculated in some complicated way that I don''t understand. I''ve never had to use my magic level since becoming an explorer, so I don''t even know my own.


    397: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not like height, where you can easily measure it.


    398: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾394


    I took a magic aptitude test the other day, and I got a 53. Is that high? I don''t really know much about being an explorer, so can someone explain it to me?


    399: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾398


    Go become an explorer right now.


    400: Anonymous Explorer


    Dude, you should totally become an explorer. You''ll make way more than at a black company.


    401: Anonymous Explorer


    The sudden change of opinion. LOL.


    402: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, if someone seems promising, of course we''ll recommend it. He has a magic level of 50! He could easily become a middle-floor explorer.


    403: Anonymous Explorer


    If you can consistently explore the middle floors, you''ll make more than the average salaryman. You should get your explorer''s license and start hitting the dungeons.


    404: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾391


    Here are some links to basic dungeon knowledge:


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Check these out, and then take the Explorer Association''s training. With your magic level, the upper floors should be a breeze.


    405: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾391


    Here''s a basic dungeon course: Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    It''s Kisaragi''s, and I highly recommend it. The practical stuff is a bit tough, but if you can manage, you''ll be able to handle the middle floors. You definitely need to learn how to control your magic, though. That''s what makes the difference between minor injuries and major ones.


    406: Anonymous Explorer


    The sudden kindness. LOL.


    407: Anonymous Explorer


    Classic forum behavior¡ªswitching from tough love to being helpful in an instant.


    408: Anonymous Explorer


    Thanks for all the advice. I''ve already scheduled my exam for the explorer''s license. I''m going to try being a freelance explorer.


    409: Anonymous Explorer


    Magic aptitude tests should be mandatory at company health check-ups.


    410: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾409


    But then the companies would lose workers, and Keidanren (the business federation) wouldn''t be happy about that.


    411: Anonymous Explorer


    Stop being a lapdog for the Ministry of Finance.


    412: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder if the Sapporo Dungeon golem keychains will suddenly start selling like crazy. I''ve been making them.


    413: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾412


    What the hell is that¡­


    414: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾412


    What made you think that would sell? I''m curious.


    415: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve got no business sense, man. Give it up.


    416: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh? I actually bought one as a souvenir from my trip to Sapporo.


    417: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, there''s a fan.


    418: Anonymous Explorer


    Really? I don''t think, "Hey, I should start making Sapporo Dungeon keychains," is going to catch on.


    419: Anonymous Explorer


    I just got here, but did the Sapporo Dungeon really get cleared while I was away? I was planning to conquer it someday in my hometown. How did they clear it so fast? I wanted to study and prepare for it properly first.


    420: Anonymous Explorer


    Have you been living under a rock? This has been all over the news. How could you not know? You must be a total NEET.


    421: Anonymous Explorer


    Why do NEETs who have no idea about dungeons always pop up on these forums?

 Chapter 88 - 88: Defining Strengths

    It''s September.


    After clearing the Sapporo Dungeon on August 31st, it''s obvious that time has moved on, and here we are in the second week of September. It''s the season when students return to school after summer vacation. This period is notorious for the spike in student suicides, which I get, honestly.


    I always hated the end of summer vacation when I was a kid¡­ Now, with all my explorer activities, I barely even feel like a student anymore, so it doesn''t bother me as much.


    These days, though, even in September, it''s still hot. It doesn''t feel like autumn at all. Why is it 30 degrees in September? That''s a midsummer temperature. When did September start feeling like midsummer?


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun."


    "¡­Good morning."


    "Whoa, you seem down... Are you tired?"


    "Not really, no."


    Asakawa-san greeted me with her usual high energy. I guess for someone like her, even the first day back at school after summer vacation is fun. Personally, I feel like I could leave right now. I still don''t get why I had to come to school just for the opening ceremony. Maybe she finds something enjoyable about it that I don''t understand.


    "Nanami... good morning..."


    "O-oh, morning... Akari? What happened?"


    "E-exam prep, you know..."


    Ah¡­ So that''s why so many people here look like they''re on the brink of death. We''re in the third year of high school, so most of them have probably been cramming for exams all summer, attending prep schools and studying hard.


    "What about you, Nanami?"


    "Me? I''m planning to join Tsukasa-kun''s company."


    "I''m starting my own business. I''ve been consulting with people I trust, and I''m in the process of getting it off the ground."


    Mainly with Aizawa-san and Shinano-san. As an explorer, I won''t lose to the adults in this field, but as a working adult, I''m still just a kid. I need guidance before making big decisions. I''m learning as I go, bit by bit.


    "A job straight out of high school, huh... That''s not bad either... But I want to go to university. There''s something I want to do."


    "If you have a clear goal, like something you want to achieve, then going to university is definitely a good idea."


    To me, university isn''t a place to just continue being a student out of inertia. Sure, these days many companies won''t even look at you unless you''re a college graduate, especially if you''re a fresh graduate. But when I see tuition fees skyrocketing, I wonder if it''s really worth taking out student loans. Well, it''s not like I can talk much, since I''m starting my own business.


    "There''s also the academic test right after summer vacation, right? If I don''t score well, my allowance gets cut... So I''m really desperate."


    "That sounds tough."


    "...Wait, what?" Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Uh, Tsukasa-kun?"


    "What''s wrong? Don''t tell me you''re worried about the academic test?"


    "..."


    Oh no¡­ I haven''t even looked at the handouts we got from school lately. I''ve been completely out of the loop. This is my fault entirely, but¡­ maybe I can get out of it¡­ No, I can''t. I need to accept my fate.


    "Whoa, you look like you''ve reached enlightenment or something."


    "...Tsukasa-kun, you forgot about the academic test, didn''t you?"


    Hmph... Why is it that Asakawa-san always figures me out so easily?


    "Hmm¡­ I feel like I''ve hit a bit of a wall lately."


    "...Really?"


    I was starting to feel more confident as an explorer, but it seems like Asakawa-san has been feeling a bit stuck.


    "Ah, I''ll just have iced tea."


    "I''ll have black coffee, like usual."


    As usual, we''re sitting in a caf¨¦ near the Shibuya Dungeon, ordering drinks while chatting. I thought we could have done this at home, but Asakawa-san seems to enjoy the atmosphere of these outdoor caf¨¦s. Well, even though this place is technically underground, it''s probably best not to bring that up.


    "Before, I could barely survive near the lower levels'' entrance. But now, I can handle myself in the lower layers. I thought I''d keep getting stronger and stronger, but... the deep layers seem so far away, like they''re out of reach."


    "Your goal is...?"


    "...Let''s not talk about that. For now, I''m just feeling a bit stuck, I guess?"


    Her goal... I don''t know the details of what Asakawa-san is aiming for, but it seems like she''s set her sights on diving into the deep layers. But the deep layers aren''t the kind of place you can easily reach. That''s the reality.


    "...I was watching a stream the other day, and it made me lose some confidence."


    "A stream?"


    "The Sapporo Dungeon one."


    "Ah, that..."


    So, that''s why she was feeling like the deep layers were so out of reach.


    "If you''re comparing yourself to Kamishiro-san, you should stop."


    "...Why?"


    "She''s a monster, born with her abilities. You and Kamishiro-san are completely different types."


    "Is that so?"


    Kamishiro-san is a natural-born genius, able to control her immense magical power with instinct alone, wielding devastating magic without much effort. I doubt she''s ever had to practice her magic control.


    "But you have your own strengths, Asakawa-san. Your unique ability to see mana is something Kamishiro-san doesn''t have."


    "Do you think so?"


    "Absolutely. The precision with which you control mana because you can see it is unmatched. I''ve never seen anyone handle mana as meticulously as you do."


    Being able to control mana precisely means you can minimize waste when casting spells. This translates directly into more sustained firepower. In the unpredictable environment of the deep layers, having high endurance and sustainability in battle is a major advantage.


    "Are you trying to encourage me?"


    "I''m just stating facts. That''s just the premise... now, here''s the main point."


    That''s right¡ªwhat I''ve said is just the groundwork. Asakawa-san has talents I''ve never seen before, and I don''t know how those talents will develop. But if she nurtures them, she''ll surpass many other explorers.


    "Your talent is one of a kind. You have your own unique strength."


    "So, what are you saying?"


    "I''m saying you need to define that strength more clearly. The deep layers aren''t easy, but I believe you can adapt."


    This is my honest belief. I have no doubt that she will eventually become someone who thrives in the deep layers. In fact, I wouldn''t be surprised if she becomes the next EX-rank explorer.

 Chapter 89 - 89: A New Request

    I''ve been getting a lot of collaboration requests lately. Actually, it''s been happening every day. But I''ve ignored all of them. Most of these requests are probably from people hoping to ride the wave after my collaboration with Miyamoto-san. I mean, I did say that I collaborated with her because of a message I received on social media.


    But the reason I collaborated with Miyamoto-san was that I had been paying attention to her for a while. I have no intention of collaborating with people I don''t know well.


    Speaking of Miyamoto-san, she''s been doing well since her rank rose to D, and she''s been diving into the mid-level floors of dungeons as a member of Kanacon. Thanks to her, my subscriber count has soared well past a million, and many of those new viewers seem to have checked out her channel as well. S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I watched her recent mid-level adventures through archived streams, and it''s clear she''s handling the increased attention gracefully.


    With Asakawa-san and now Miyamoto-san, that makes two people I''ve directly mentored in a way. I''d like to help more people, but I''m not that versatile, so I hope to leave that to people like Aizawa-san or Grandma.


    Now that I''ve cleared my big goal of conquering the Sapporo Dungeon, the Association''s requests for me have dramatically decreased, probably because I''m still a student. Not that I mind, but apparently Shinano-san talked directly with Shishijima-san to free up some time for me. She''s starting to feel more like an idol manager than a dungeon explorer.


    Grandma, who had been talking about retiring, seems to have been roped back in by the Association after all. Her husband gently convinced her to reconsider and stay active. Honestly, I think her husband''s incredible for managing to maintain such a good relationship with someone as intense as Grandma.


    But what I really wanted to say is¡­ I''ve got too much free time on my hands. In other words, I''m bored.


    Dungeons are a part of my life, but even I don''t feel like heading straight into one right after returning from the Sapporo Dungeon. So I''ve spent my remaining summer vacation lazing around, watching baseball or other people''s streams, and before I knew it, summer was over.


    I''m excused from a lot of things due to my explorer activities, so my test scores aren''t terrible, but I''m not exactly motivated to study. I even bought some economics books to prep for becoming a CEO, but most of them feel like scammy self-help books. It''s like when people buy self-help books, feel satisfied just by owning them, and then sell them for peanuts without reading them.


    "Hm?"


    My phone buzzed with a notification sound. Someone messaged me¡­ but who?


    "...Miyamoto-san?"


    The name "Miyamoto Kana" was displayed on my phone screen. We exchanged contact information after our collaboration, but I didn''t expect her to actually reach out. I tossed aside my politics textbook and opened the message.


    "Thank you for your hard work. This is Miyamoto Kana. I''m messaging you today because I''d like your advice on something. Please reply whenever you have time. I''ll be waiting."


    "What''s going on?"


    Since I had nothing better to do, I responded right away. Unlike Asakawa-san, Miyamoto-san''s concerns are likely dungeon-related, which makes it easier to reply. Even though she''s older than me, as an explorer, I''m the senior here.


    "I''m a bit surprised by your quick response. It''s about my weapon. The blacksmith I work with told me it''s time to upgrade my axe. Do you know of any good materials for a battleaxe that could still be effective in the lower layers of dungeons?"


    Hmm¡­ I see. For someone like Miyamoto-san, who relies on her weapon for combat, the performance of her gear is a matter of life and death. For me, I can get by with somewhat average materials since I mainly use shikigami and magic in battle. But for Miyamoto-san, who can''t use magic, that won''t work.


    That said, I''m not particularly knowledgeable about weapons since I mainly rely on shikigami and only use my sword for enemies where it''s particularly effective. I should probably ask someone who knows more about this, like Aizawa-san.


    "I''ll ask someone I know who might have an idea. For materials suitable for the lower layers, it may require materials from monsters down there."


    "Understood. I''ll keep trying on my end as well."


    "I''ll let you know if I find anything useful."


    I honestly don''t know much about materials for battleaxes. I''ll just ask Aizawa-san¡ªhe''s bound to know. He''s always busy, though, even when he''s not exploring, so I''ll just send a simple message for now.


    Speaking of which, Miyamoto-san''s message reminded me that it might be time for me to upgrade my sword, too. The one I''m using now is a simple blade that I had made shortly after I became an EX-rank explorer. Though it''s crafted from materials from the deep layers, it''s not exactly custom-made.


    I did get that crystal lizard material from the Sapporo Dungeon, so maybe I''ll use it to commission something better.


    "For a battleaxe, something a bit heavier might actually work best. Materials from inorganic monsters like golems could be ideal, rather than something like teeth or claws from beasts."


    While I was thinking about it, surprisingly, Aizawa-san responded immediately. Maybe he''s also staying out of dungeons for a bit, recovering after the Sapporo Dungeon.


    As for Miyamoto-san''s combat style... she''s definitely a weapon-focused fighter who relies on enhancing her gear with magic.


    "She primarily relies on magic to enhance her weapon for close combat. She''s not very adept with magic itself."


    "If that''s the case, she should focus on materials that can conduct magic efficiently. As long as the material channels magic well, even something a bit fragile can work as a weapon. Still, it needs to be durable enough to function without magic."


    "Thanks a lot."


    "It''s best to get detailed advice on materials directly from the blacksmith. They know much more about materials than explorers do."


    Well, it''s true. Most explorers aren''t that interested in monster materials¡­ myself included. Serious explorers like Aizawa-san pay attention to that kind of thing, but most others are just interested in whether they can sell the materials for a good price or not.

 Chapter 90 - 90: Handling the Heat

    My SNS account is having a minor flame war. I''m watching it like it''s someone else''s problem, but since I''ve turned off all notifications, it doesn''t really affect me. I can still see updates from the official account of the game I''m playing, so there''s no issue at all.


    The reason for the flame war¡­ is my relationship with the person I''m collaborating with next.


    **[Recently, I haven''t gone a day without seeing their name on the internet. I''ll be collaborating with "Tsukasa Kisaragi"! The stream will mainly focus on answering questions from the perspective of someone who doesn''t usually delve into dungeons. I''m really looking forward to it!]


    [The date will be announced later. Since they''re an EX-level explorer, it seems it will take some time to adjust the schedule!]**


    This is the reason I''m being flamed. The person who posted this online was the popular virtual streamer Sasami Torimomo. In other words, it''s blowing up because fans are saying, "How dare my favorite streamer collaborate with a guy!" They''re flaming me instead of Sasami Torimomo, so that''s at least a relief. But I wonder if virtual streamers always get flamed like this¡­ must be tough.


    I''m not familiar with the dungeon streaming community, but are there really hardcore fans who are in love with people over the internet? I don''t get it at all¡­ what kind of emotions are these people feeling while watching streams?


    "I''m so sorry¡­!"


    "No, honestly, we underestimated this situation."


    Sasami Torimomo herself called to apologize about my account being flamed. It seems even her manager found the situation bizarre, and they felt bad about it. When they suggested apologizing over the phone, Sasami Torimomo insisted on making the call herself.


    "I knew I was disliked in certain parts of the internet, but I didn''t expect it to be this bad."


    "Ugh¡­ I really respect you, Kisaragi-san!"


    "Thank you. Well, I think it''s better to take advantage of the buzz and do the collab now while it''s a hot topic, whether it''s good or bad."


    "Wow, you''re mentally strong."


    The flame war is just starting, and it''s not that big yet. If we go ahead and do the collab while it''s still a topic of interest, more people will tune in. And once the collab is over, the connection between us will fade, and the flame will naturally die down. I think we should take the risk and go for the attention now.


    "But what about your schedule¡­?"


    "It''s fine. Until the end of September, I''m on break after conquering the Sapporo Dungeon."


    "Oh, I see¡­"


    "So, please just schedule it at your convenience, Sasami Torimomo-san."


    The collab is just me appearing via video call on Sasami Torimomo''s channel, not meeting in person, so it''s easy to arrange the time. The only problem might be stepping into enemy territory. I''m sure the comment section will be brutal. I''ll leave that to Sasami Torimomo and just avoid looking at the comments.


    "Then, how about this Saturday?"


    "That''s fine. My academic test will be over by then."


    "A test¡­? That''s nostalgic. I sometimes forget you''re still a student, Kisaragi-san."


    "Haha¡­ I''m glad it''ll be something we can talk about."


    I don''t have many universally relatable topics like academic tests. I might want to consult with Asakawa about that.


    "Well, again¡­ I''m really sorry."


    "No need to worry about it."


    I ended the call there. Even if there''s a flame war online, it doesn''t really concern me since I barely check the internet anyway. My daily posts are inconsistent, and I''m generally pretty laid-back. Still, there''s no need to add fuel to the fire, so I''ll stop posting for a while.


    "What should I prepare for casual conversation topics?"


    : Don''t ask us.


    : Why do you think we have the answer?


    : You should be able to figure that out, being one of us.


    : Just talk about the weather.


    : The weather deck is too weak, though.


    : Once you use the weather deck, you can''t use it again, so it''s a big disadvantage.


    : Stop treating conversation like a card game.


    The only people I can rely on are my viewers. When I set up a chat stream, more people showed up than I expected. I even saw a few comments in foreign languages, but since this is a chat stream and not a dungeon exploration stream, I probably won''t meet their expectations¡­ sorry about that.


    Still, there are some offensive comments coming through¡­ should I delete them?


    : Get a moderator.


    : But mods have their pros and cons.


    : It''s annoying when mods get too full of themselves.


    : But leaving the comments alone isn''t great either.


    : You''re famous enough to have a flame war, huh?


    : I wonder.


    : If the weather deck''s no good, use the health deck.


    : Seems like it all depends on what Kisaragi thinks.


    : Ultimately, it''s Kisaragi''s stream, so do whatever you want.


    : Congrats on your first flame war.


    : What, are you gonna show your health check results for the health deck?


    : Just stir things up with a gacha tease.


    "If I stir things up with gacha talk, I''ll get flamed immediately."


    : Lol S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Don''t just respond to that.


    : I was worried you''d be hurt by all the comments. Give me my concern back.


    : Mentally strong, huh?


    : Well, he''s an explorer.


    : Don''t assume an explorer can handle anything.


    "Well, it doesn''t really bother me, but it''s amusing¡­ Oh, maybe I just added fuel to the fire."


    People really can come up with insults so easily. I''m curious about where all that negative energy comes from. I mean, logically speaking, why would you insult someone that much?


    : Keep fanning the flames.


    : This guy really doesn''t care, huh?


    : He usually ignores 90% of the comments anyway.


    : You''re not really interested in what others think of you, are you?


    : You''ve spent too much time in the wilds of the dungeon.


    : Does mental harassment even matter to someone who risks their life in a dungeon?


    "It doesn''t bother me, but other people might be affected, so please stop. That is, if you have enough common sense to understand."


    : Are you provoking them?


    : Stop with the natural jerk moves.


    : Lol


    : Are we starting a comment battle?


    : A comment war with an EX-level explorer?


    : I won''t lose a comment war!


    : Na-na-na-na boo-boo!


    : Are you a child?


    It''s not that I''m immune because I''m an adult or anything. It''s just that insults from people I don''t know don''t feel real. It''s like seeing graffiti in a bathroom; who''d actually believe it''s about them?

 Chapter 91 - 91: Virtual Streamer Meets Dungeon Explorer

    "So, as announced earlier, today''s collab stream is with Tsukasa Kisaragi!"


    "Nice to meet you all¡­ By the way, I''ve also started streaming on my side."


    "Oh, really? I''ll keep an eye on both streams."


    I don''t think they need to watch my stream too, though... Still, I can''t believe I''ve gotten to the point where I''m collaborating with a popular virtual streamer. At first, I was just casually interested, but well, I''m having fun, so I guess it''s fine.


    : Wow, the comments on their stream are going wild.


    : Well, of course they are.


    : Even the comments here are kind of chaotic, lol.


    : Aren''t you going to file a disclosure request for the defamation?


    : Too much hassle, probably.


    : Isn''t this just going to escalate?


    : No one can actually touch an EX explorer, so it''s only online, right?


    The comments here are also getting pretty noisy, but I guess that''s to be expected when it comes to virtual streamers. Some people just can''t tolerate the idea of them collaborating with a guy. Well, it doesn''t matter to me, though.


    "Today, I''m just a regular person, so I''ll be asking all sorts of questions!"


    "It''s about dungeons, right? I''m not sure how well I can answer, but I''ll do my best."


    Up until now, I''ve only ever talked about dungeons with people who have at least some experience with them. This is the first time I''ll be discussing dungeons with someone who''s never entered one. I hope I can explain things well enough¡­ I''ve prepared answers to possible questions in advance, so hopefully, my social awkwardness won''t kick in¡­ I think.


    : Do your best, socially awkward guy.


    : He''s like your typical introvert who can speak decently when it''s work-related.


    : Same, I''m an introverted loner with no friends, but I can talk during work.


    : Why is that? I don''t really get it either.


    : Work and private life are separate, that''s why.


    : It''s not that he can''t talk, it''s just that Kisaragi doesn''t take that first step.


    : He''s probably just afraid of getting too close to others.


    Stop analyzing my introversion and social awkwardness in the comments. Sure, I can talk when it''s work-related, but when it comes to personal stuff, all I can do is nod with a fake smile. Don''t make fun of me for that.


    "First of all, congrats on conquering the Sapporo Dungeon!"


    "Oh, thank you¡­ But I feel like it was really Aizawa-san who did most of it."


    "That''s not true! You provided precise support with your shikigami! It was even broadcast live on TV; the entire nation was on the edge of their seats watching!"


    "¡­Really?"


    I had no idea. I was in the Sapporo Dungeon at the time, and I never bothered looking up news about myself afterward.


    : Hey.


    : Play along.


    : Well, he wouldn''t know, he was the one in the dungeon.


    : Lol.


    : Aren''t you interested at all?


    : Read the room, man.


    "Well, you were in the dungeon at the time, so you wouldn''t know, right? But seriously, it was incredible! People like me who are interested in dungeons were all watching." sea??h th§× Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Is that so¡­? That''s kind of embarrassing."


    "Haha! I felt the same when I saw myself featured on TV as a virtual streamer. It was a bit embarrassing."


    : I guess that''s how it feels.


    : Only famous people get to experience that.


    : Kisaragi seems like he''s becoming a big name too.


    : Is he, though? With all his social awkwardness?


    : Leave him alone.


    "Here''s a question. I''m curious about the atmosphere of the deep layers. What''s it like there, from your perspective?"


    "The deep layers, huh? Let''s see¡­ When I first went down there, I felt like my skin was always tingling with tension. It''s a completely different world from the lower layers, and it feels like your life is constantly in danger¡­ I think anyone going for the first time would feel like their heart is going to stop, so make sure to be careful."


    : Yeah, no one''s going there, lol.


    : Who are you even talking to?


    : Hardly anyone goes to the deep layers, man.


    : Only S-rank and EX explorers even go there, right?


    : Even A-rank explorers avoid the deep layers like the plague.


    : EX explorers probably don''t even feel the tension anymore.


    : He''s talking about his first time there, so it doesn''t count anymore.


    Sure, I''ve gotten used to it now, but when I first went to the deep layers, I was genuinely terrified. My grandma came with me, but she wouldn''t help me at all, so I had to fight the monsters in the deep layers on my own. Back then, I couldn''t even use the Twelve Celestial Generals like I can now, so I really thought I was going to die.


    I noticed Sasami Torimomo''s avatar fidgeting and looking down¡ªjudging by the sounds, she''s probably taking notes on what I''m saying. Was there anything worth writing down?


    "Could you tell us about the deep layers of the Sapporo Dungeon?"


    "The Sapporo Dungeon? Well¡­ honestly, it was a hassle."


    "A hassle?"


    "Yes. The corridors are narrow, it''s dim and hard to see far ahead¡­ and to top it off, golems that scatter magical energy appear quite frequently, so it''s a pain."


    "I see¡­ Is it because of that magical scattering property that so many explorers are hindered?"


    "I think so. It''s tough dealing with strong enemies when magic, which could give you a chance at a comeback, doesn''t work well. That said, even fragments of those golems fetch a decent price."


    The ability to scatter magic is actually a rare trait seen only in the golems of the Sapporo Dungeon. I don''t know what it''s used for, but they''re even exported overseas and fetch high prices domestically too. Though, that only applies to the higher-purity golems from the deep layers.


    "Money¡­ um, I''ve heard that deep-layer explorers make a ridiculous amount of money¡­"


    "¡­Is it okay to talk about this? Well, let''s just say, yeah, they make a ridiculous amount."


    "I knew it!?"


    "It''s hard to say how much exactly, since it depends on the type and number of monsters defeated, the quality of the monster materials¡­ But let''s just say most S-rank and higher explorers earn more than the top professional baseball players."


    "That''s¡­ in the billions, isn''t it?"


    "No comment."


    : Lol.


    : Seriously?


    : They''re making bank.


    : Even more than I imagined.


    : Man, I wanna be an explorer now.


    : And on top of that, don''t they get tax cuts?


    : Which is better, non-taxable income for politicians or tax cuts for explorers?


    : At least explorers still pay taxes, unlike politicians.


    For top-tier explorers like me who take on requests from the Association and explore deep layers, it''s possible to earn more in a month than a professional baseball player''s annual salary. But let''s keep that a secret. Whenever you start making big money, people always have something to say about it.

 Chapter 92 - 92: A Joyful Excursion

    "Alright, next is a basic question¡­ Could you tell us your magic power value, Kisaragi-san?"


    "...What?"


    "Wait, do you not know your own magic power value?"


    What''s a magic power value again?


    : Lol, his face is genuinely confused.


    : Explorers don''t really measure their magic power value.


    : Yeah, I''ve never seen explorers actually use magic power values.


    : Isn''t it only used when you qualify to become an explorer?


    : You probably only use it that one time in your life.


    : Regular people ask about it like it''s their height, but explorers don''t know their magic power values.


    : Don''t explorers have health check-ups or something?


    : They do, but magic power isn''t measured during them.


    : What''s the point of having that value, anyway¡­?


    Crap. I seriously don''t know. I vaguely remember hearing something about it during some kind of school test¡­ or maybe I didn''t? I''m not sure. I feel like I''ve heard people talk about measuring it back in the academy, but I''ve never really thought it was important enough to remember. Maybe it was just something mentioned in passing during the qualification process.


    "The magic power value is a number that indicates how much latent magic energy is present in your body. You need at least 20 to qualify as an explorer."


    "Oh¡­ Sorry, I honestly have no idea what my value is. And I think there''s probably no point in explorers knowing their magic power value after becoming one."


    "Why''s that?"


    "Well, for one thing, I''m not even sure how it''s measured. But more importantly, for someone like me who''s already a trained explorer, I can freely control the magic energy in my body. So, measuring how much is latent or dormant doesn''t really mean anything. It''s like asking how much water you have in a bottle when you can refill it as much as you need."


    : That''s it.


    : Seriously?


    : So Kisaragi could make his magic power value 0 or 100 if he wanted?


    : What''s the point of even having that value then¡­?


    : Makes no sense, lol.


    : Why bother creating a value that''s useless?


    This seems like one of those things that show the gap between the explorers who are out in the field and the people who work in the Association office, managing things from behind a desk. For us, manipulating our magic power is second nature; it''s a skill we practice and refine over time. It''s not something static like height or weight.


    So, naturally, the magic power value we might have had measured once in the academy is irrelevant in real life. I doubt any professional explorer even knows their magic power value, and even if they did, it wouldn''t matter. Magic fluctuates, after all. It''s not something that stays constant.


    "You might need at least 20 to qualify as an explorer, but honestly, I think if you train properly, anyone can reach 30 or more. To be frank, it''s a pretty useless metric once you''re actively using magic."


    "I see¡­ Maybe I should try a bit harder then."


    "Of course, if you have a high magic power value, that does mean you have talent, and it could give you an edge early on. But after a certain point, it''s just not a useful indicator anymore."


    : So if I was disqualified for low magic power, do I still have a chance?


    : You could make up for it with effort, but if you can only make it to the upper layers, what''s the point?


    : It''s all about talent in the end.


    : Just curse your lack of talent.


    : You might be able to become an explorer, at least.


    The more I think about it, the less sense it makes. Why does the system even exist? If they could measure it more accurately, maybe it would serve a purpose. But as it is now, it''s more of a formality¡ªsomething to check off on your way to becoming an explorer. I can''t remember a single time when knowing someone''s magic power value actually mattered in the field.


    Once you''re in the dungeon, your survival doesn''t depend on how much magic you have; it''s about how well you can use what you have.


    "Okay, next question¡­ How did you learn Shikigami magic? I''ve never seen anyone else use it. Is it just that no one streams it?"


    "Hmm? I''ve never seen anyone else use Shikigami magic either, to be honest. Probably because it''s not very practical. It''s a bit of a niche magic, I suppose."


    : What¡­?


    : Don''t say that yourself.


    : But you use it so effectively!


    : Not practical (but not weak either).


    "You see, Shikigami magic requires a lot of preparation. You have to create the Shikigami in advance, and that process is pretty time-consuming. Also, Shikigami aren''t inherently that powerful. You have to pour a lot of magic into them, but even then, their output is limited."


    "Is that so?"


    "Yeah, when I create a Shikigami, I pour a ton of magic into it, but when I summon it, I''m lucky if it outputs even a tenth of that power. It might be cost-effective in terms of summoning magic, but it''s a long process. It takes patience and careful planning, which isn''t always ideal in high-pressure situations."


    Since I prepare the Shikigami while I''m above ground and then summon them in the dungeon, it feels cost-effective in terms of conserving magic during an expedition. But it''s undeniably a hassle. You need a clear mental image of the Shikigami before you can even summon it. If your image isn''t precise enough, the summoning could fail altogether.


    : I see.


    : Didn''t they say using Shikigami magic requires natural talent?


    : Yeah, I think they said you need to be born with a gift for it.


    : Sounds tough.


    : There''s no easy way to win in a dungeon, huh?


    : Kisaragi is working hard, too.


    : Of course he is.


    "And as for how I learned Shikigami magic¡­ I don''t know if I should be saying this, but I learned it from an ancient secret text passed down in Kaede Jinguji''s family."


    "...Wait, are you even allowed to read that?"


    "I don''t know. But one day, Kaede handed it to me and said, ''You can learn to use this.'' The cover said ''Secret Text,'' so I''m pretty sure it''s supposed to be a one-person-only kind of magic."


    : What the heck?


    : Lol, that''s hilarious.


    : What''s going on with Jinguji¡­?


    : Isn''t that a little too careless?


    : One-person-only (lol).


    : I''m pretty sure that''s the kind of book you''re not supposed to share with others.


    : This would throw off the power balance.


    : Make copies and distribute them nationwide. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Let me read it too.


    I have no idea either. To this day, I''m not sure if it was really okay for me to read that book. I''ve never asked about it because, honestly, I''m a little afraid of the answer. But my grandma once told me that she couldn''t use Shikigami magic, and neither could her children or grandchildren, so maybe that''s why Kaede decided to pass it on to me.


    Still, my grandma''s idea of "not enough magic power" could apply to someone who''s still a mid-layer explorer. So, I''m not sure how seriously to take her words.


    "So yeah, I got stronger through some unique methods. But if anyone''s thinking of becoming a dungeon explorer now, I''d recommend you follow Aizawa''s example and take a steady, disciplined approach to getting stronger. Definitely don''t try to do it the way Kamishiro does."


    : Lol, good advice.


    : Yeah, if more people like Kamishiro showed up, the dungeons would collapse.


    : If more people like Kamishiro Rion showed up, I think the Explorer Association would fall apart before the dungeons.


    : Isn''t it crazy that someone as chaotic as Kamishiro is an EX explorer?


    : Maybe being chaotic is what makes them EX-level?


    : So true, lol.


    : They''re EX because they''re that insane.


    "Hearing your stories, Kisaragi-san, makes me want to be an explorer, but it also sounds kind of scary¡­"


    "You only live once, so I think you should go for it. If you stay in the upper layers, the monsters aren''t that strong, so you probably won''t die. Plus, the upper layers are usually small, and there are lots of people around, so if anything goes wrong, someone will help you."


    Well, there are some upper-layer dungeons that are insane from the very first floor, but at least there''s none of that in Japan, so you should be fine here. In fact, most upper-layer dungeons in Japan are so well-explored and mapped that they''re considered relatively safe.


    "The most important thing for dungeon exploration isn''t strength but knowledge. As long as you study up on dungeons like Sasami Torimomo-san does, I think you''ll be fine reaching the upper layers. Knowing what you''re up against is half the battle."


    That being said, I can''t guarantee anything beyond the middle layers. Once you get past the upper layers, it''s like stepping into a completely different world. The difference between the upper and middle layers is like night and day, so it''s not a place for the unprepared. But if you''re just looking to explore the upper layers and make some money, it can be a good side gig.


    At the very least, it''s a safer bet than most of the scams out there.


    "By the way, even if it''s just a side gig, if you make over 300,000 yen from dungeon exploration in a year, you''ll get a tax deduction on your overall income. So if you''re going to do it, try to make at least 300,000 yen."


    "Money is important, after all!"


    : Just make sure to file your taxes.


    : Is it worth going through the hassle of filing taxes just for the deduction?


    : The deduction is pretty significant, so if you can, make sure to earn 300,000 yen in a year from dungeon exploration.


    : I think you can manage it if you dive into the upper layers around 50 times a year.


    : Can you, though?


    : No way.


    : Yeah, you probably can.

 Chapter 93 - 93: A Virtual Streamers Perspective on Dungeons

    "Phew¡­ I feel like I asked too many questions¡­"


    "No, it''s totally fine. That''s what this stream is for."


    "Well, I guess you''re right, but still¡­"


    Honestly, the questions I had prepared answers for beforehand didn''t come up as much as I had anticipated. I suppose this is the difference between someone who actually dives into dungeons and someone who only knows about them from bits of information they pick up here and there.


    It''s something I hadn''t really considered until now, but it''s a gap worth thinking about. I had expected more questions about technicalities, tactics, and the day-to-day grind of dungeon exploring, but I ended up fielding more fundamental questions. I guess that makes sense, given the audience, but it''s an interesting shift from what I''m used to.


    "Anyway, it''s been about an hour, so I think it''s time to wrap things up. Thank you so much for today!"


    "Likewise, I learned a lot myself."


    "Wait, but I was the one asking the questions, wasn''t I?"


    "Well¡­ I still learned a lot, in various ways."


    : Sounds suspicious.


    : Even I don''t usually watch virtual streamers, but this was more fun than I thought.


    : So, collabing with a virtual streamer leads to getting flamed, lesson learned.


    : Virtual streamers need to train their audiences better.


    : That''s pointless. Half of them can''t even read the chat properly.


    : They can''t read, but they still donate tons of money? Lol.


    : Some people go into debt just to send donations.


    : Seriously¡­?


    : That''s wild.


    : How do people like that even survive in society?


    : Is this a cabaret club or something?


    After the usual closing remarks that seem unique to virtual streamers, I ended the stream. This was my first time collaborating with someone who isn''t a dungeon streamer, and it was quite an interesting experience. Talking to someone who doesn''t come from the dungeon exploration world made me realize how different it feels to explain concepts and experiences that, to me, are second nature.


    It was more difficult than I expected, but it was also enlightening. I''ve gained some new knowledge, and in that sense, I''d say it was a success. Although, to be honest, the whole flame war part makes me hesitant to ever do something like this again.


    "So, that concludes the session, time for the ''post-match analysis.''"


    : Are we playing chess now?


    : Lol.


    : What kind of analysis are you going to do?


    : Maybe you shouldn''t interact with virtual streamers anymore.


    : No, you should definitely do more collabs with virtual streamers!


    : Make up your minds, guys.


    : Honestly, I only ever hear about virtual streamers when they''re involved in some controversy or lawsuit with their audience, so maybe steer clear.


    : You''ll just keep adding fuel to the fire.


    : It''s already burning down, though.


    Hmm¡­ Seems like the viewers share that image of virtual streamers too. When it comes to virtual streamer-related news on social media, it''s usually about some flame war or legal issues due to defamation and harassment.


    It''s true that virtual streamers don''t exactly have the best reputation online. Even though Sasami Torimomo seems to run a pretty clean and transparent operation, I guess the fact that she''s collaborating with a male like me was enough to cause this whole mess.


    "Well, this post-match analysis includes evaluating my communication skills, or rather, my lack of them."


    : It was a total loss, wasn''t it?


    : Maybe we should stop talking about your communication skills, it''s too painful.


    : Is there even a point to this analysis?


    : Didn''t you just make a series of bad moves?


    : Looks like Kisaragi is receiving a brutal evaluation.


    : Well, what did you expect? Lol.


    : You do seem to struggle with communication a bit, huh?


    : Don''t sugarcoat it.


    : He might have some new viewers from the Sapporo Dungeon broadcast, you know?


    "¡­Okay, I see. I think I understand now how you all felt about the stream."


    I mean, it''s not like I''m unaware that my communication skills are severely lacking. But, the thing is, when it comes to dungeons, I tend to just jump straight to the conclusion. That''s kind of a habit I''ve developed over the years. After all, most of the people I usually talk to about dungeons are either high-ranking Association officials or people like Aizawa.


    There''s no point in going over all the small details with them. They want the facts, the results, and the big picture. So, I''ve gotten used to skipping the fluff and getting straight to the point.


    "As far as takeaways from today go, I think I learned a lot about how people who don''t dive into dungeons view dungeon-related content. Obviously, most of my viewers probably don''t go into dungeons themselves."


    : Yeah, I''ve never been into a dungeon.


    : Same here, I just watch the streams.


    : I do some light dungeon diving down in Okinawa, but nothing serious.


    : I''m actually an explorer, too.


    : I started exploring after watching Kisaragi''s streams.


    : I wish I could do it as a side gig, but I''m too busy.


    : I''ve got the qualifications, but no time.


    I figure most of the active commenters are probably explorers, given the nature of the conversations we usually have. But I suspect the majority of viewers who don''t comment, especially those watching from overseas, are people who have never set foot in a dungeon.


    Even within Japan, it''s said that there aren''t enough people interested in becoming dungeon explorers, so if the majority of my viewers were explorers, that would be a bit alarming.


    I''ve always known that non-explorers are watching my streams, but I never had a clear picture of how much they actually understand about dungeons. That''s why I''m grateful to Sasami Torimomo for asking all the right questions. She was able to ask the things that I never thought to explain.


    "It''s a bit like being out of touch with reality, but doesn''t it feel like your common sense starts to erode when you spend too much time in dungeons?"


    : I kind of get what you mean.


    : When you''re in a dungeon, it does start to feel like you''re the main character in a game.


    : Yeah, it''s like you start to feel a bit disconnected from real life.


    : Sometimes I catch myself wanting to move like a protagonist from a novel.


    : I almost died once, so I''ve stopped doing stuff like that.


    : Is that really how it feels?


    : Every guy dreams of adventure from a young age, don''t they?


    : It''s like how every time you pick up a stick, you want to swing it around like a sword.


    "Exactly! It''s the same feeling of excitement you get from holding a sword. When you''re in a dungeon, it''s easy to get caught up in that thrill."


    Maybe that''s why so many dungeon explorers are men. It''s not just about the reality of dungeon exploration; it''s about the dream, the adventure. It''s not something you just accept as part of life¡ªyou find yourself seeing it as something magical, something beyond the ordinary. That sense of wonder is hard to shake. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Of course, during our training, they always tell us not to think like that. It''s dangerous."


    : Lol, no one listens to that advice, though.


    : I can''t blame them.


    : Training is so boring, it''s hard to stay awake.


    : It''s like those videos you watch when renewing your driver''s license. Does anyone actually pay attention to those?


    : You mean that ridiculous one about motorcycles weaving between cars? Isn''t it the biker''s fault for doing that?


    : Who even cares?


    : Stop with the random stories, lol.


    Well, I wouldn''t know much about that. I''ve never gotten a driver''s license, after all. Maybe I should think about getting one, but lately, the Association has been sending people to drive me everywhere, so I''m starting to feel like I don''t really need it.


    Still, there''s something liberating about being able to go wherever you want on your own. I imagine having a car would give me that sense of independence. But with how busy dungeon exploration keeps me, I doubt I''d ever have the time to actually drive anywhere myself. Maybe it''s something I''ll think about in the future when things settle down.


    "Anyway, I''ve learned a lot from today''s experience. It might not feel like a proper ''post-match analysis,'' but that''s where I''ll end it."


    : Post-match analysis (lol).


    : Good job.


    : Keep it up!


    : Dungeon streamers should just stick to diving into dungeons.


    : I''ll be watching again.


    : Do a collab with Asagao-chan next!


    : Please don''t leave Asagao-chan hanging.


    Asakawa? Wait, why is everyone assuming it''s my responsibility to take care of Asakawa? I mean, sure, I''ll look after her, but it''s not like it''s my job!


    Well¡­ I guess I''ll do it anyway.


    Looking back at the stream, it was an interesting experience. Talking to someone who doesn''t normally dive into dungeons, especially someone as different as a virtual streamer, gave me some new insights. While I''m not sure if I''d ever want to repeat the experience (especially given the flame war that ensued), I can''t say I regret doing it.


    It was a valuable learning opportunity, and I hope my audience gained something from it too. But from now on, I think I''ll stick to what I know best¡ªdungeon exploration and sharing those experiences with people who are truly interested in that world.

 Chapter 94 - 94: Thread 13: The Virtual Streamer Fallout and Dungeon Addictions

    1: Anonymous Explorer


    Thread to discuss EX-ranked explorer UNKNOWN (real name: Tsukasa Kisaragi)


    Feel free to talk about either the explorer or Tsukasa Kisaragi''s dungeon streaming channel.


    Previous thread


    [EX Rank Explorer]UNKNOWN¡¡Part155[Tsukasa Kisaragi ch]


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Tsukasa Kisaragi ch


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS Account


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    The person who gets post 950, please start the next thread.


    If you can''t, ask someone else early.


    ¡ùIt is recommended to completely ignore trolls.


    ¡ùThere are currently trolls residing in this thread.


    2: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks for the thread.


    Yep, the place is still a mess.


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks for starting the thread.


    £¾£¾2


    Yeah, it was obvious this was going to blow up, but the chaos is really something.


    The fact that Kisaragi is completely ignoring it makes me laugh so hard.


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    If he started worrying about every single obsessive troll, he couldn''t keep exploring the deep layers. So in a way, it''s the obvious mindset for someone at his level.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa is a creeper lolololololololol


    Quit streaming right now lololololololol


    You''re scared of the backlash and too chicken to say anything lolololol


    Quit streaming already lololololol


    Just trying to hit on virtual streamers lolololol


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    Banned: £¾£¾5


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s the right move.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    Caught a troll immediately, lol.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    I really wish the trolls would go back to their anti-thread¡­ It''s getting annoying.


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    The unicorns are going insane, but wasn''t it Momo-meat who suggested the collab?


    Are they saying Kisaragi should have read the room and turned it down just because it was a girl inviting him?


    This is gross.


    No wonder these people can''t get a girlfriend and just whine online.


    Aren''t you guys embarrassed when people call it "Virtual Cabaret"?


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾10


    Don''t solve the entire situation on your own.


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾10


    You don''t have to write everything, lol.


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾10


    Stop bombing all virtual streamer fans at once!


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    I used to be a fan of virtual streamers, but after this fiasco, I''m taking a step back from the scene and watching Kisaragi''s stuff instead¡­ It''s just gotten way too crazy.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    People have been saying the virtual streaming world is nuts, but I didn''t think it was this bad. It''s like a sewer with no self-cleansing mechanism.


    Why is the dungeon streaming community more civilized?


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    The dungeon streaming community used to be a cesspool of people flexing and faking knowledge, and it had a pretty bad rep. But things cooled down when someone (you know who) started streaming deep-layer explorations¡ªbecause it''s a level where the flexers and fakers can''t even talk about it.


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾16


    EX rank is the best, huh?


    18: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾14


    Smart choice. Honestly, that community is just full of unstable people¡­ it''s kinda scary.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    Even though the direction is kinda messed up, I still think virtual streaming is a super fun and groundbreaking format¡­ How did it end up turning into a virtual cabaret?


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    But the funniest thing is that Kisaragi doesn''t seem to care at all.


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, judging by his post-collab reflection stream, it looks like he''s never gonna collaborate with a virtual streamer again.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾21


    No doubt he found the whole thing too troublesome.


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    For the unicorn virtual streamer fans, this is probably a huge win.


    He''s never going to get involved with them again, after all.


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    Whatever company Kisaragi starts next, I bet he''ll completely ban virtual streamer collaborations. It''s just too much of a hassle.


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾24


    But didn''t Kisaragi mention that his company might even recruit virtual streamers?


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, running things in-house would be a lot easier.


    He wouldn''t make them into idols, after all.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    That would mean a purely merit-based competition¡­ But with Kisaragi''s name value, that should be enough to draw attention.


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a fact that Kisaragi is a creep. There''s no other reason for him to collab with virtual streamers.


    He was obviously targeting Sasami for the collab.


    Dungeon explorers are all scumbags.


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    Banned: £¾£¾28


    Even if it''s not a blatant troll comment, if you''re from the anti-thread, you''re still not welcome here.


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾29


    Fast work from the OP.


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    Is the OP a genius?


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    For a second, I was like, "Who''s Sasami?"


    If you don''t say Torimomo Sasami, I don''t know who you mean.


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    Just call her Sasamin.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾33


    I''ve never heard anyone call her that, though.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s fine, right?


    I just made it up a second ago.


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾35


    Come on, I''ll ban you for that.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa, the trash streamer who only collaborates with girls, lolololol


    His skills as an explorer are trash too¡ªhe relies entirely on his team, scammer lololol


    Creepy creeper lolololololol


    Quit streaming lololololol


    We''re gonna harass you until you delete your account lolololol


    We''ll never forgive you, just die lololololololol


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾38


    Yikes¡­


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    Banned: £¾£¾38


    There''s a lot of them, huh?


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Just take it as proof of how popular Torimomo Sasami is and try to stay positive.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish Kisaragi would come and clear the dungeon near my hometown. I''d love to know how to beat it.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Same. I think it''d be a huge hit if he went around exploring different dungeons and giving mid-layer and lower-layer strategies.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾43


    Yeah, a lot of his viewers now seem to be high-level explorers, but most of the audience is probably still stuck in the upper layers. It''d be great if he did more educational streams, like that beginner''s guide the other day.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    You''ve pretty much got the Shibuya Dungeon figured out, right?


    Asagao-chan and Kanakon-chan have already put it into practice.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾45


    Do we really, though?


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    Nah, those two are just strong. We still don''t have any clear strategy for Shibuya Dungeon. The only dungeon that''s easy to understand is Hachioji, but going there is basically a waste of time.


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe I''ll send a request in the suggestion box.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s probably buried under troll comments, so I doubt it''ll get through.


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    Then I''ll just tweet him directly.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    There''s still so much I want him to do. Like, how about a stream where he explores the Nagoya Dungeon?


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    You''re casually asking for the impossible, lol.


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    But he''s gone underwater in dungeons before, hasn''t he?


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s EX rank, so he can do it (I''m just assuming).


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi was just starting to show interest in virtual streamers, but after all this, he probably hates them now.


    After all that''s happened, I wouldn''t understand why he wouldn''t.


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    All I can say is, what a disaster. I hope that community just stays confined to the internet and never comes out in public again.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    If you want to bash virtual streamers, do it in their anti-thread.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    I mean, I get why this thread is turning into a virtual streamer anti-thread. Honestly, Kisaragi was just unlucky here. It''s pretty unfair, considering they approached him for the collab.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    Train your fanbase properly.


    Otherwise, they''ll just cause trouble, and it''s the streamer who gets blamed for it.


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi mostly operates around Shibuya Dungeon, but he doesn''t stream much about other dungeons, does he? I wish he''d show more¡­ Didn''t he stop streaming the requests from the government entirely?


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾60


    Right now, he''s finished the Sapporo Dungeon, and the government''s stopped giving him requests, so he''s not taking any jobs at the moment.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, September''s almost over, so that downtime is about to end.


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    Is it really October already?


    It feels like it was just January a little while ago¡­


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, as you age, your sense of time speeds up.


    So £¾£¾63 must be¡­ Oh.


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾63


    Hey, old man, is time slipping away along with your hairline?


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    Huh? I''m fully haired, thanks.


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    Are we really about to start a flame war over hair again? (sigh)


    68: Anonymous Explorer S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No one wins in a hair-related flame war, just stop it.


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, in terms of perceived time, you''ve already lived half your life by the age of 19.


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾69


    No way, that''s ridiculous.


    Is human perception of time broken?


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    So Kisaragi hasn''t even lived half his life yet.


    Man, I''m jealous¡­ youth.


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe Kisaragi''s haters are just jealous of a young guy with a bright future.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾72


    They just hate the fact that a kid is making more money than they are.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    The people in this thread are super tough on successful people. They''re convinced anyone making money must be cheating somehow¡­ all while being NEETs.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾74


    Was that last part really necessary?


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾75


    Of course it was.


    Are you feeling attacked, NEET?


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ll kill you.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol, that short temper.


    Are you an old man?


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi just started streaming.


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    What the heck?


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    He''s streaming again, even after all that happened yesterday? Lol.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    How much does this guy love streaming?


    Didn''t he say something about enjoying the back-and-forth with the chat?


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    He probably just enjoys it because he never had friends to chat with before.


    The guy has no friends.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Oof, the painful truth.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    Most of the people in this thread are the same, that''s why we''re here arguing, lol.


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    Wasn''t there an interview with an old man in a previous thread? He said arguing on the internet helped him cope with his loneliness.


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    Lol.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    [Shibuya Dungeon]Today, I''m soloing some runs


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Here you go.


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾88


    Nice one.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    Thanks for the link.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m gonna go watch the stream, so I''m not coming back to this thread.


    Later, guys.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾91


    Wait, you should be watching the stream and posting here at the same time. That''s how you do it.


    You''re too soft. Commit yourself more to Kisaragi''s stream.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    Anyone who''s double-watching Kisaragi''s stream on a weekday afternoon has to be a NEET, right?


    This is kind of depressing¡­ Well, I''m gonna watch on two screens too.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    A NEET being sad about being a NEET, lol.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    So it''s a solo stream today, no collab?


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, he does a lot of collabs, so I wonder what he''s up to this time.


    Personally, I''d love to hear more about strategies for mid- and lower-layer dungeons.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾96


    Why not leave a comment and ask?


    It doesn''t seem like he has any particular goals for this stream, just exploring for the sake of it.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    What? He''s diving into a dungeon without any objective? That sounds like total dependency behavior.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    At this point, it''s like he lives in the dungeon.


    He''s always streaming from inside one.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    A complete dungeon streaming addict, lol.


    Why does he stream this often? It''s like he''s addicted to dungeon life¡­ He''s even surpassing Asagao-chan, who used to be called the dungeon addict.


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, Asagao''s his apprentice.


    The master is always supposed to outshine the student.


    102: Anonymous Explorer


    The student is supposed to surpass the master¡­ So this is foreshadowing that Asagao-chan is going to turn into an even bigger monster than Kisaragi?


    103: Anonymous Explorer


    Please, we don''t need explorers more monstrous than him. The dungeons would be destroyed at that rate.


    104: Anonymous Explorer


    Is Kisaragi a kaiju or something?

 Chapter 95 - 95: Uninvited Meet-Up and Troublemakers

    "Shibuya Dungeon, for better or worse, is pretty much the same every time, isn''t it?"


    : Don''t know about that?


    I didn''t have anything to do today, and planning a collab right now seemed like too much hassle, so I just headed to Shibuya Dungeon after school and started streaming. Right now, I''m in the middle layer, sitting on a large tree branch in the forest zone, casually chatting while watching other explorers working hard down below.


    : You''re saying "solo today" but you don''t ever go into dungeons with anyone else, do you?


    : You team up for collabs, right?


    : That''s too savage, lol.


    : Stop with the brutal honesty punches.


    : Lol.


    : It''s true, you''re always by yourself.


    : It''s like someone who never has friends saying, "I''m friendless today," and everyone''s like, "Isn''t that always the case?"


    "¡­Friendless mockery, barrier activated."


    : You okay?


    : You''re really lacking motivation today.


    : You''re talking like a kid, lol.


    Continue your saga on m|v-l''e m,p| y- r


    : Are you burned out?


    : Way too early for that.


    : A high schooler with burnout, lol.


    : Go to the deep layers.


    : Going to the deep layers after school would be insane, stop it.


    "Still, there are a lot of people in Shibuya Dungeon today... maybe because it''s a weekday afternoon. It''s the middle layer, but there sure are a lot of people."


    I notice a few people glancing my way, probably some viewers. I mean, no one in their right mind would be looking my way while exploring a dungeon unless they knew I was going to be here. They must have found out in advance.


    : I spotted Kisaragi and waved, but he''s completely ignoring me.


    : Is it true that you can meet Kisaragi in the middle layers?


    : The guy waving is on screen, lol.


    : He''s actually on screen, I''m dying, lol.


    : This looks fun.


    : It''s turning into a Shibuya Dungeon off-line meet-up.


    : No way, I''m heading to the middle layers now!


    : What floor is this?


    : Floor 34.


    : He''s three floors above right now.


    It''s like an impromptu off-line meet-up has started. I didn''t plan this or anything, but if the viewers are having fun, I guess it''s fine. I''m just streaming because I don''t really have anything else to do, not because I had any particular intention. If I had to say, it''s just to pass the time.


    : I can''t even go to the middle layers!


    : Are there a lot of elite explorers in this stream who can make it to the middle layers? Sear?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Is the middle layer considered elite?


    : I guess it''s elite enough.


    : The number of people gathering around the guy waving is growing, lol.


    : Isn''t there too many viewers here?


    : Kisaragi''s pretty popular as a streamer, huh?


    I thought ignoring them would be the best strategy, but now more people are waving at me. What is this? At first, it was just one person waving like crazy, and I thought they''d lost their mind, but now it''s turned into a group of about ten people. It''s gotten so big it looks like a strange little crowd, and the other explorers seem confused by it.


    : Looks fun, lol.


    : Kisaragi''s having an off-line meet-up with his viewers, lol.


    : Kisaragi''s off-line meet-up (without him participating).


    : He''s right there, though.


    : Calling that "being there" is a bit of a stretch, don''t you think?


    : Lol.


    : This stream is too funny.


    : I kinda want to head to Shibuya Dungeon myself.


    : Everyone, gather around!


    : What a bothersome group, lol.


    "Please make sure you''re not bothering the people around you. If you cause trouble, I''ll be the one held responsible."


    : Got it.


    : Don''t worry about it.


    : It looks like a peaceful scene, but since it''s the middle layer, no one''s going to do anything too stupid, right?


    Well, as long as the viewers are having fun, that''s good¡­ but still, the number of monsters in the middle layer seems unusually low today. Maybe someone strong is around. Someone capable of going down to the lower layers, maybe?


    As I absentmindedly looked around the dungeon, I noticed a group of explorers starting to argue in the area where the off-line meet-up had been happening. I literally just asked everyone not to cause trouble...


    : What''s happening?


    : Don''t cause problems now.


    : This is why the dungeon streaming community''s reputation is bad.


    : You can''t even talk about virtual streamers after this, lol.


    : Oh no.


    : Looks like they got into a fight.


    : It''s some other streamer causing trouble¡ªAikasu is involved.


    "Aikasu? What''s that¡­ some kind of new monster?"


    : Lol, no way.


    : A new monster, lol.


    : Aikasu Renmei is a group of annoying dungeon streamers.


    : So it''s still in the dungeon streaming community, huh.


    : They''re flame-baiting dungeon streamers who cause trouble.


    : They''re actually skilled, but their attitude is awful.


    Huh¡­ I didn''t know there were annoying people like that. I''ve mostly only interacted with decent folks, so I have no idea about these troublemakers, but if my viewers are getting into trouble, I guess I should step in.


    "You guys are the ones blocking the path with your little crowd. Look, everyone! This is what Kisaragi-kun''s viewers are like¡ªjust a bunch of rude nerds who look like they can''t get a girlfriend."


    "¡­You really shouldn''t cause trouble for others. It''s not a good look."


    The guy shouting into his camera must be part of the "Aikasu Renmei" crew. Honestly, I couldn''t care less about him, but I can''t just ignore it if they''re being loud right next to me.


    "Oh look, Tsukasa Kisaragi himself shows up! You gathered all these people here and started an off-line meet-up in the dungeon, didn''t you? You''re blocking the path and it''s causing problems. You''re the one in charge of this meet-up, so deal with it!"


    "You say that, but I didn''t organize any off-line meet-up¡­ wait, it''s pointless trying to explain this, huh?"


    "You admitted it! He admitted it!"


    The blond guy who looks like he''s just messing around, and the brown-haired guy smoking a cigarette in the dungeon, they must be the Aikasu Renmei guys. But seriously, isn''t it dangerous to smoke in a dungeon?


    : Don''t engage with them.


    : They''ll just twist everything and use it against you, leave it be.


    : The meet-up is over, let''s call it a day.


    : That''s it, meet-up''s done.


    : They ruined it, but we''ll do another meet-up sometime.


    "I got to meet Kisaragi in real life!"


    "Seeing his face, I really thought, ''Wow, he''s actually a high schooler.''"


    "Bye, Kisaragi!"


    "...Wait, the meet-up''s over? You guys are leaving Kisaragi himself behind?"


    "Hey, the meet-up is over, so can we be done here?"


    Watching the viewers quickly disband after the off-line meet-up, the blond guy looks confused, but since I didn''t organize the meet-up in the first place, that''s how it goes. I was planning on wandering around the dungeon a bit more and heading home anyway.


    "Hold on a sec! You think I''m just going to let you off after causing trouble with your disruptive stream?"


    "¡­I don''t even know who you guys are, to be honest."


    : Lol.


    : Aikasu losing to Kisaragi in name recognition, lol.


    : Isn''t it embarrassing to lose even in flame-baiting notoriety?


    : Of course Kisaragi wouldn''t know them. He''s genuinely uninterested in people who just play around causing trouble.


    : He has no reason to know some streamer who thrives on causing drama.


    "I''m Aikichi!"


    "And I''m Kasumin!"


    "Oh¡­ So, you two together are ''Aikasu''¡­ that''s pretty clever."


    "What''s clever about that? We''re not comedians!"


    : They''re just a pair of idiots.


    : "Kichi" (crazy) and "Kas" (scum), lol.


    : That''s just an insult, lol.


    : Why are they acting so tough in front of an EX ranker?


    : Are they really that tough? Normally, Aikasu would be acting way more arrogant. If this were their usual, they''d be throwing punches by now.


    : They''re scared, lol.


    : Can''t they just get arrested already?


    The viewers are all saying things, but why are these guys even allowed to roam around freely like this? The Explorer Association really needs to crack down on people like them.

 Chapter 96 - 96: A Day in Shibuya Dungeon

    "So, what exactly are you trying to say?"


    "Huh!? I''m saying you caused trouble for others, so you need to apologize right here. Bow your head, Mr. EX rank."


    "Sure. I''m sorry."


    : Lol.


    : Head bowed too easily!


    : Well, Kisaragi doesn''t really care about that stuff.


    : Doesn''t he have any pride?


    : Pride doesn''t help you in dungeon exploration.


    : He just doesn''t have useless pride.


    : He does have pride as an explorer, though.


    Well, it''s not like anything changes just because I bowed my head¡­ It''s not like the world will end if I do. Now, if bowing my head would bring about the end of the world, I''d refuse no matter what. But since these people are just making a fuss on their own, they can keep doing that if they want.


    "¡­"


    "Um, are we done here? I''d like to go home now."


    "Do you think bowing your head will solve everything?"


    "But you''re the one who told me to apologize and bow my head, right?"


    : Ah, I see.


    : It''s probably his first time dealing with this kind of person.


    : These guys are such losers, huh.


    : Getting annoying now.


    : You can go home, Kisaragi.


    : I''ve reported Aikasu''s stream already.


    I just stopped by after school, so I''d really like to head home¡­ If there was a specific purpose to this, I might have been a bit more engaged, but I''m seriously not in the mood today.


    "So you''re just trying to dodge responsibility and run away, huh? That weak apology won''t cut it¡ªmake a proper one!"


    "Hm?"


    Suddenly, monsters appeared around us. There hadn''t been any signs of them before, so I wonder¡­ I thought other explorers had wiped them out today, but maybe something unusual is going on. Should''ve been more alert instead of zoning out. Well, since the Explorer Association hasn''t detected anything, it''s probably not a major threat.


    As I thought about that, both my device and Aikasu''s phones began blaring with loud alarms.


    : That startled me.


    : My alarm just went off too.


    : What''s going on?


    : Anyone else in Shibuya Dungeon''s middle layers get the alarm?


    "Hello?"


    "Kisaragi, you''re in the middle layers of Shibuya Dungeon right now, right?"


    "Yeah, I''m here."


    "I''m guessing you just noticed some magical anomalies, right?"


    "Yeah¡­ I''d say that''s accurate."


    Another magical anomaly, huh¡­ Though I think the frequency is lower this year compared to usual? I don''t really keep track of those specifics¡ªit''s the Association''s job¡ªbut I think I heard something about it on the news.


    "The magical anomaly is at a +3 level."


    "Just enough to trigger the alarm, huh?"


    "Yeah, even though it''s a low-level alert, we still need to address it¡­ Since you''re the closest, I''d like you to handle it."


    "Sure. I can already see it."


    While Shino''s explaining, I spot what looks like a bird flying above us. It''s probably at a lower layer''s difficulty level, way weaker than the Frost Wyvern Asakawa used to fight back when she was still inexperienced. Honestly, it''s not a monster I should even need to deal with, but since it''s right here, I might as well.


    : Oh boy.


    : Bad place to spawn, lol.


    : It''s over for that bird.


    : Its lifespan was only a few minutes.


    : Not even minutes, more like a few seconds, lol.


    : Rip, bird.


    "H-Hey, we''re not done with our conversation¡ª"


    Something like that doesn''t even require me to summon a Shikigami. I can just shoot some magic and finish it off.


    I imagine an ice spear, materializing it above me, and launch it. I don''t need to be too precise with my aim¡­ If I''m faster than it can react, there''s no way it''ll dodge. And if I miss, I''ll just shoot fifty more at once next time.


    : Goodbye, bird.


    : Sad to see it go.


    : Anomaly neutralized, lol.


    : Is that really enough to solve it?


    : The monster''s at fault for showing up in front of an EX ranker.


    "W-We weren''t done talking¡ª"


    "It''s done."


    "Can you at least finish the call before you do that?"


    "It''s just more convenient to do it during the call rather than ending it and then starting again a few seconds later."


    "¡­I''ll post that the situation has been resolved on the website. Thanks."


    Crisis averted. And just like that, the magical anomaly in Shibuya Dungeon is resolved.


    "Oh, you''re still here?"


    Some of the guys who were glaring at me earlier are still standing around. They should really just stop being annoying streamers and head home already. I''m done with my work, so I''m seriously going home¡­ I wasn''t planning on working today anyway.


    : Can''t say anything now, huh, lol.


    : So what''s the plan for Aikasu now? No matter what they do, they''ll forever be remembered as the ones who got scared of Kisaragi.


    : They brought it on themselves, lol.


    : I would''ve already lost my temper, so Kisaragi''s mental strength is impressive.


    : Kisaragi has the strongest mentality, no doubt.


    : Aikasu should just delete their channel and disappear.


    Sigh¡­ What should I do tomorrow? I''m getting bored of only Shibuya and Hachioji Dungeons. Maybe it''s time to ignore the viewers for once and do a stream where I explore dungeons purely for fun. Since I started streaming, I haven''t been able to visit many dungeons across the country, and it''s really starting to frustrate me.


    After I got home and booted up my computer to do a casual chat stream, I saw a big headline featuring me and those annoying Aikasu guys. The title was something like, "EX Explorer Tsukasa Kisaragi and Troublemaker Streamers Get Into an Argument!?" Uh, we didn''t argue, though.


    Looking at SNS, I see a lot of people commenting on it, but honestly, I couldn''t care less about the kind of mindless graffiti people post online. I''ll just do a chat stream as usual.


    "Huh¡­ Are you all doing okay?"


    : The usual.


    Experience tales at m v|l e''m,p| y- r


    : Why do you always suddenly start a chat stream out of nowhere?


    : He doesn''t have anyone to talk to, that''s why.


    : I don''t have anyone to talk to either, so this helps.


    : Oh look, it''s the internet celebrity himself.


    : Here''s the guy who''s trending again.


    : You''re on the news every day now, lol.


    : He stands out, for better or worse. S§×ar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "What''s this ''for better or worse''? I''m a streamer, so standing out is part of the job."


    : Nah, you stand out way more than most streamers.


    : All you do is stream, yet you get so much attention.


    : You don''t even appear on TV, but you''re everywhere.


    : Rough day today, huh?


    : Aikasu''s channel got suspended, lol.


    Oh, their account got suspended. Maybe it was because of their nuisance streaming¡­ or maybe it was because I sent a complaint to Shishijima-san. Yeah, probably the latter. Shishijima-san must''ve taken action. Letting dungeon explorers like that roam free would only cause more problems, so it''s no surprise.


    : Why are you always in the middle of some kind of trouble?


    I''d like to know that too.

 Chapter 97 - 97: School Days and Dungeon Ways

    "I have no idea how to start a business."


    "Well, that''s understandable."


    I was having lunch with Aizawa-san, talking about my future.


    After graduating high school, I planned to continue working as a dungeon streamer. Eventually, I wanted to establish an agency that would make it easier for dungeon streamers to operate, where I could also train newcomers and gradually expand. By doing so, I hoped to increase the population of dungeon explorers over the long term. I shared everything I was thinking with her.


    "I see. As someone who''s on the path to becoming the next top explorer, it might make sense for you to think about training newcomers. But that''s still something for the future, right? After all, I''m still here for now."


    "Well, yeah, but as an EX ranker, I can''t just ignore the current shortage of explorers."


    "Honestly, I''d hoped you''d be the next head of the Dungeon Explorers Association, but if you have something else you want to pursue, that''s probably better for you."


    I feel bad for Aizawa-san, but after seeing her overworked like a salaryman in a black company, I have no desire to become the head of the association. If that''s my alternative, I''d rather start a business from scratch without any know-how and do something I actually want to do.


    "So, why did you go out of your way to meet me? You didn''t just come for career advice, right?"


    "Huh? No, I just came to visit and figured I''d get some advice while I was at it."


    "¡­Really? I didn''t think I was someone you admired so much."


    "No, you''re the most respectable explorer I know."


    I mean, my grandma is my grandma, and Kamishiro is¡­ well, you know. It might sound a bit rude, but by process of elimination, Aizawa-san is the only person I can really rely on.


    "I see¡­ Well, I guess I''ll have to act like a respectable adult then."


    "Ah, no need for that."


    "Isn''t that a bit cold?"


    What I expect from Aizawa-san is mentorship as an experienced explorer, not anything like family affection. Just keep things the way they are¡ªno need to change anything.


    The next day, I went to school as usual and sat in my usual seat at the corner of the classroom, reading a book. I hadn''t taken any job requests in September, so I''d been attending school regularly, but that wouldn''t last much longer. In fact, it was already October, so it was inevitable that I''d soon be flooded with requests.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa¡­ Reading again?"


    "Good morning. Isn''t reading something you should do all the time?"


    Asakawa greeted me, now wearing her long-sleeved uniform after the October wardrobe change. The short-sleeved season had felt particularly long this year, but maybe that was just my perception. The school uniform changes to short sleeves in June and back to long sleeves in October, and with August being summer vacation, the short-sleeve period is technically only three months.


    "It''s become normal to see you in class now, but you''re going to get busy again soon, right? That''s kind of sad."


    When I first started attending regularly, my classmates were pretty surprised, and no one was more shocked than the homeroom teacher. But after a week, it became normal for me to be there, and I went back to being just another background character. Even though I''m an EX-ranked explorer, I''m still an introverted loner, so no one really approaches me¡­ Sad, isn''t it?


    Well, Asakawa and Nonohara still come up and talk to me without caring about that stuff.


    The saying "Rumors last only seventy-five days" is true. Before summer break, when my status as an EX explorer was exposed, things got noisy at school, but now, apart from Asakawa and Nonohara, I''m back to being the typical quiet, isolated student.


    "The sports festival is coming up soon¡­ Are you going to participate, Tsukasa?"


    "Well¡­ Since I never know when work will come up, I probably won''t."


    "I see¡­ What about the school festival?"


    "It feels wrong to only participate in the festival without helping with the preparations, so I''d feel bad."


    "Ugh¡­ That''s disappointing."


    "Honestly, I''d love to enjoy the school events as a student, but¡­ it''s not that simple." S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Actually, I don''t want to participate in school events because I''m an introverted loner. Back in middle school, I had a terrible experience, just because I didn''t have any friends. It was so bad that I remember crying myself to sleep, wondering if life could get any harder.


    When I think about it now, before becoming an explorer, I was just a friendless, introverted misfit. My situation was really dire. If I didn''t have the talent for being an explorer, my life probably would''ve been over.


    "Hmm¡­ Well, in that case, why don''t we make some memories together while we can!"


    "Wait, what do you mean by making memories?"


    "Like the school trip! Isn''t there one coming up?"


    "Wait, you want me to participate in that?"


    School festivals and sports events at least give introverts like me some space to do their own thing. But a school trip? That''s a death sentence. Back in middle school, I was so miserable that I skipped the school trip entirely.


    "By the way, where does this school go for trips? Kyoto?"


    "Hawaii!"


    I vaguely remember hearing that¡­ or maybe I didn''t. I probably forgot because I was already planning on skipping it.


    "See? Doesn''t Hawaii sound fun? Everyone''s looking forward to it!"


    "Hawaii isn''t fun at all."


    "What!? Are you some kind of Hawaii hater!?"


    "¡­Nonohara, please don''t randomly create weird terms like ''Hawaii hater.''"


    What even is a "Hawaii hater?" I''m just stating a simple fact based on my experience.


    "Wait, so you''ve been to Hawaii before?"


    "Yeah, I''ve been. It was super boring."


    "Is that because you didn''t have many friends?"


    "Huh? How is that related?"


    It''s just boring, plain and simple. I don''t see why people think it''s so exciting. It''s actually surprising to me that there are people who want to go.


    "Wow, you really dislike Hawaii that much?"


    "I don''t hate it, it''s just not fun. All it is is a massive dungeon where big monsters appear in wide-open areas."


    "I''m talking about a normal trip to Hawaii! Not dungeon stuff!"


    "Oh¡­ Kisaragi, your head really is filled with nothing but dungeons."


    "Oh, I see¡­ you meant above ground."


    So, they were talking about the regular Hawaii? I thought they meant the dungeon there, which is just a giant boss rush¡­ I was starting to feel like my sense of reality was completely out of sync with everyone else.


    Let me know if you need any more translations or further help!

 Chapter 98 - 98: The Submerged Depths of Nagoya

    "So, it''s Saturday... how''s everyone doing?"


    : Commuting to work.


    : On the train.


    : Cleaning my house.


    : Just lounging around.


    : Every day''s summer break for me, I''m invincible. S§×arch* The N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Days of the week don''t matter to a NEET.


    "For those commuting, good job. If you''re cleaning, make sure to finish before watching. If you''re lounging around, it''s the weekend, so relax and enjoy. For the NEETs, please head to the employment office on Monday."


    : Lol.


    : No way I''m going.


    : I''ll live off my parents forever!


    : Your parents'' money won''t last forever, you know.


    : Why are you streaming this early?


    : Is it a collab today?


    : It''s rare to see an unannounced stream.


    : Dude, it''s only 7 AM.


    As usual, I''m streaming a dungeon dive. Lately, it feels like all I do is work, go to school, or stream dungeon content. But, well, I enjoy it, so I guess it''s fine... it''s fun doing what you love.


    "Didn''t I announce it beforehand? I thought I did... Anyway, I''ll post something on social media real quick."


    : Forgetting things at that age already?


    : Are you talking about me?


    : Hey, old viewers, make sure to take care of your dementia.


    : Don''t underestimate dementia; you even forget that you forgot.


    : It doesn''t work like that, lol.


    Alright, I posted it on SNS, so that''s handled. Still, it''s pretty quiet this early on a Saturday morning¡­ I''ve had more viewers when I stream late at night. Maybe everyone in Japan is turning into a night owl? I''m a bit of a night owl myself, but I can wake up early without any issues, so it''s no problem for me.


    "The reason I''m streaming so early today is¡­ I''m going to tackle a tricky dungeon, so I got myself ready."


    : Tricky dungeon?


    : There''s nothing tricky about Shibuya Dungeon.


    : Haven''t you basically already conquered it?


    As expected¡­ there are very few people here. Maybe word has spread that after a certain point, it''s impossible to explore further, which keeps even the locals away. Well, it''s not like this is my favorite dungeon, but still.


    "Ah, this is EX-ranker Tsukasa Kisaragi¡­ Mind if I enter?"


    "¡­EX!? Why on earth are you here!?"


    "I thought it''d be fun to stream this dungeon."


    "This dungeon!?"


    They''re really surprised... well, this is a dungeon where a few people visit each day at most, so I guess it''s understandable. Even so, they''ve got work at the entrance to the dungeon, so they should hang in there. Maybe they''re on the night shift, though.


    After getting permission to stream inside the dungeon, I made my way to the entrance. Already, I could feel the dampness in the air.


    "So, today, I''ll be exploring the Nagoya Dungeon."


    : What?


    : Huh?


    : Are you insane?


    : Why would you go to that dungeon, lol.


    : Lol.


    : Isn''t this what the viewers wanted?


    : Weren''t they always asking you to go deeper into the Nagoya Dungeon? You''re so kind, Kisaragi!


    : No, that''s not how it works.


    : Wait a minute!


    : My brain can''t keep up.


    : Why would you willingly dive into such a ridiculous dungeon this early in the morning?


    "Seems like it''s a popular choice."


    : Get your eyes checked.


    : You need to get your head checked, not your eyes.


    : See a psychiatrist, man.


    The Nagoya Dungeon is absolutely deserted. The main reason is the structure past the 11th floor¡ªstarting from the upper levels, everything is submerged. I''ll say it outright: no matter how strong a human becomes, we can''t breathe underwater. Magic can do a lot, but it can''t reconfigure human anatomy. So, as long as humans remain human, we can''t fully conquer the Nagoya Dungeon.


    "I usually avoid the Nagoya Dungeon because it''s a solo dungeon by nature. But, when you want to explore alone after a string of collabs, it''s perfect."


    : I can''t even get in there!


    : This is a sign of mental breakdown.


    : Why do you think you can conquer a flooded dungeon?


    : Please become a legend by conquering the Nagoya Dungeon.


    : Are you generating oxygen as you go?


    Even though everyone''s saying it''s impossible, they seem curious about how I''ll tackle the Nagoya Dungeon. Well, that''s probably why they''re watching¡ªit''s all about finding out how to beat the dungeon, right?


    The Nagoya Dungeon''s top levels aren''t flooded, so you''d think more explorers would give it a try¡­ but that doesn''t seem to be the case. I guess the fact that you can''t go past the upper levels because of the water puts people off.


    The Nagoya Dungeon is near Nagoya Port, so it''s easily accessible via the Nagoya City Subway. But despite the convenience, it''s still not popular. I''d say it''s better than some remote places, like Wakkanai, at least.


    "Here we are, at the stairs leading to the 11th floor."


    : I can already see water, though.


    : The stairs are submerged halfway down.


    : Wow, that''s a beautiful water surface.


    : Hurry and dive in, Kisaragi!


    "Alright, let''s go."


    Today, I plan to reach at least the 35th floor¡­ According to the viewers, I apparently hold the current record for the deepest dive in the Nagoya Dungeon at 34 floors. However, no one really believes that, so the 10th floor is generally considered the farthest anyone''s gone. That''s why I''m going to record my dive today and prove I''ve reached the real deepest level.


    "Tenko, come forth."


    I summoned Tenko, one of the Twelve Heavenly Generals. She''s a stunning beauty with pastel blue hair and deep, ocean-like blue eyes. She''s essential for conquering the Nagoya Dungeon.


    : Wow.


    : Another beautiful summon.


    : He always summons beautiful women, huh?


    : Is this a harem?


    : Damn¡­ I think I''ll start learning Shikigami magic for my own harem.


    : Good luck with that, lol.


    "Do you seek my power?"


    "Yes¡­ Today''s going to be a long dive."


    "As you wish."


    Tenko is based on the Taoist goddess Mazu, worshipped along the Chinese coast. She''s prayed to for safe voyages and successful fishing. In Japan, her role is similar to the deity Ototachibana-hime. As the Shikigami I''ve created, Tenko''s ability is to protect me from water. In other words, the submerged Nagoya Dungeon is no exception to her power.


    With Tenko''s magic supporting me, I step into the water that has flooded the stairs. My body sinks into the water, but I can still breathe, and the water doesn''t hinder me.


    : What''s happening?


    : Stop using methods only Kisaragi can use!


    : He''s unstoppable, lol.


    : No wonder he can conquer it.


    : At this point, water is meaningless.


    : Now I don''t get why he stopped at the 34th floor.


    : How are you breathing?


    I don''t know either¡­ Thanks to Tenko, the water isn''t affecting me at all, but there shouldn''t be any oxygen down here. Yet, I can still breathe¡­ When I asked Tenko how it works, she just smiled, so I haven''t given it much thought, but I''m starting to wonder how this is even possible. Maybe it''s some mysterious power at work because I''ve summoned something divine into my body.

 Chapter 99 - 99: Into the Abyss

    "¡­Can you hear me?"


    : We can hear you.


    : A little distant, but we can hear you.


    : What''s going on?


    : I''m not sure, but it seems cool, so I''ll take it.


    : Can''t wait, just move ahead already!


    Thinking about it calmly, I realize that I''m probably the only person who has ever had the chance to carefully observe the underwater scenery of the Nagoya Dungeon beyond the 11th floor. I''m starting to feel a little excited.


    "I''m not sure if it''s because we''re underwater or because we''re still in the upper levels¡­ Either way, there aren''t many monsters here. The only ones I see are small fish."


    : Small fish?


    : Those fish look like they''re tens of centimeters long¡­ Are they still considered small fish?


    : How does the lighting work in a submerged dungeon?


    : Won''t the deeper levels have issues with water pressure and lack of light?


    : You mentioned water pressure, but is that not a problem for you?


    : Well, he''s been down to the 34th floor before, so it should be fine, right?


    Yeah¡­ with the water pressure, it''s absolutely impossible for normal people to dive this deep. In my case, Tenko cuts off any effects related to water, so it''s not an issue. If I had to face the water pressure, I''d be crushed to death.


    "But, surprisingly, the human body is quite resilient. If the pressure increases slowly enough for the body to adjust, humans can withstand up to about 30,000 hectopascals. That''s 30 atmospheres."


    : No way!


    : Are you serious?


    : 30 atmospheres¡­ that''s equivalent to about 290 meters deep in the ocean, right?


    : Even with the slow adjustment condition, I didn''t know humans could handle that.


    : I had no idea.


    : Is my body really that strong? No way.


    : People with low confidence in their bodies, take note!


    Well, the condition about the pressure increasing slowly enough is pretty unrealistic, but it does make you realize that the human body isn''t as fragile as you''d think.


    I''m not sure where the light is coming from, but at the 11th floor, it''s bright enough to see everything around. I can see seaweed swaying gently, and there are some monsters visible in the distance.


    Suddenly, a question pops into my head¡­ If I were to sprint full-speed in this state, how fast would I go? Since I''m unaffected by the water, would I still move at full speed? And what about my magic¡ªhow does it work underwater? I''m curious to find out.


    : Whoa, you''re fast!


    : Stop accelerating without warning!


    : I''m getting dizzy.


    : That''s terrifying!


    : Please stop speeding up so suddenly!


    : Don''t brake so hard!


    : Even roller coasters don''t ignore inertia like that!


    : What''s up with your body, man?


    "¡­I can run just fine underwater. Now, let''s try magic."


    : Shooting beams underwater? You''re insane.


    : Poor fish¡­ This makes me sad.


    : Let''s have a moment of silence for the fish that died for the sake of science.


    : They''re just monsters, you know.


    : So, can you really operate underwater as normal?


    : This is OP¡­ Just head straight to the lowest floor!


    : You''re the only one who can do this, so might as well reach the bottom.


    : Yeah, I don''t think anyone else could conquer this dungeon, so you should go as deep as possible.


    Looks like magic works fine, too.


    However, I won''t be able to set the floor on fire with my usual fire spells, and I probably can''t just shoot electric currents everywhere to carpet-bomb the place. So, my combat options will be limited to physical sword attacks and beam-type spells focusing on speed¡­ I''ll probably have to rely on my Shikigami, too.


    "Well, I''m not interested in the upper levels, so let''s move ahead quickly."


    : Didn''t you already sprint once?


    : I''ll go get some motion sickness medicine.


    : I''ll just look away from the screen.


    : I''m taking a quick break.


    : I''m running away because I don''t want to puke.


    : I''ll keep watching intently, though.


    : Why would you willingly walk into such a nightmare? Is this curiosity or fearlessness?


    This happens a lot on my streams. Dungeons are just too big, so you have to move fast to get through them. Well, we''re still in the upper levels, so it''s not that vast yet, but once we get to the lower levels, it''s a different story.


    Even with the best camera setup, it can''t keep up with me when I''m moving at full speed, so I''ll probably have to let Tenko handle it. Shikigami can move with me without falling behind, so it shouldn''t be a problem¡­ hopefully.


    "Hehe¡­ Everyone, please bear with me, alright?"


    : Is she the camera operator now?


    : If my cameraman looked this good, I''d die of joy.


    : She''s too beautiful.


    : Wait, Kisaragi conjured up this beauty just from his imagination? His fantasy powers are so strong, I don''t think I can compete.


    : Fantasy powers, lol.


    : I mean, yeah, Shikigami are basically projections of his imagination, but wow, the way that''s phrased¡­


    You''re not wrong, so I won''t deny it. When I was creating the Twelve Heavenly Generals, I imagined them all as beautiful goddesses, especially Tenko, Tenkuu, and Kijin. It''s not my fault! I mean, when you''re creating a goddess, wouldn''t you want her to be stunning? The inner being that possesses the body is separate, but the outer appearance is totally my personal preference.


    That''s why all the female members of the Twelve Heavenly Generals are well-endowed¡­ I won''t go into details, but let''s just say that''s my taste. Or rather, it''s a biological instinct I can''t fight. Okay, I tried to make it sound cool, but yeah, I like girls with big chests.


    : When you''re zooming around underwater, it looks so surreal on camera.


    : Honestly, it just looks like Kisaragi is swimming really fast.


    : Is he a killer whale?


    : Seaweed.


    : Just because you''re in Nagoya Dungeon doesn''t mean you should spam seaweed jokes.


    : Seaweed multiplies like crazy, huh? I put one in my goldfish tank, and suddenly I had ten.


    : Who asked?


    : Why are we even talking about seaweed?


    Step by step, I find the stairs leading to the 12th and then the 13th floors. The further down I go, the darker it gets. By the time I reached the 34th floor last time, I could barely see a meter ahead of me¡­ I hope the camera can capture this properly.


    I don''t have any spells that can light up the dark, but I should be able to manipulate my magic to help with visibility. I should also prepare a few water-adapted mythical creatures or spirits as backup options. Honestly, it might be fun to break my usual style and summon mythological beings from other cultures, like legendary beasts or fairies from overseas.


    : Kisaragi''s the only one who can conquer this dungeon, but if he does, it''ll mean he single-handedly completed it, right?


    : Dude, isn''t that obvious?


    : Are we just repeating the same point over and over?


    : Just setting foot beyond the 11th floor of Nagoya Dungeon makes you a monster.


    : At this point, it feels like we''re dealing with something beyond an explorer.


    : This is a case where no one else can even try. It''s only Kisaragi who can do it.


    : What a broken dungeon.


    : I live near Nagoya Dungeon, and honestly, I''m hoping that once Kisaragi conquers it, the water will drain out or something.


    : Do you think this is a video game?


    I''d be thrilled if that happened too. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    After all, it''s kind of a waste that I''m the only one who gets to see this dungeon. Maybe there''s some kind of hidden mechanism to drain the water. I''ll have to keep an eye out for it.

 Chapter 100 - 100: Journey with a Glow Stick

    As I continue walking underwater, I start to feel like I''m in an open-world fantasy game. Well, rather than a beautiful, sunlit sea with glittering rays, it feels like I''m descending into a world that''s getting darker and colder, with a more brutal atmosphere. It reminds me of that deep-sea exploration game, the one that was said to be scarier than most horror games.


    And, seeing this for myself now, even with some light still left, this sight definitely stirs up a primal sense of fear.


    : I''m getting chills.


    : It feels like we''re just sinking deeper and deeper into the ocean¡­ it''s terrifying.


    : This is too scary. Please talk more, Kisaragi-kun!


    : No way. I can''t handle this kind of stuff.


    : I''d rather deal with ghosts or zombies. This is raw, primal fear.


    "¡­This is kind of funny, so can I just stay quiet for a while?"


    : No!


    : Don''t enjoy this!


    : Is this payback for all the times we teased you?


    : This is unforgivable!


    : Please, keep talking, I''m begging you! This is terrifying.


    : The sea looks mystical, but it''s all an illusion¡­ This is seriously scary.


    It''s amusing to see viewers who are usually so tough and lively in the comments actually getting scared this time, so I think I''ll keep quiet for a bit and enjoy this.


    I''m currently running through the 25th floor. The light is starting to dim, and my visibility is becoming seriously limited. The camera is still being carried by Tenko, following me as I move, but it''s getting to the point where ignoring the monsters along the way is becoming tedious due to their increasing numbers.


    "Sagojo." Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I needed something that could move freely underwater¡­ Initially, I thought of a kappa, but that didn''t seem impactful enough, and honestly, summoning just a kappa wouldn''t be very useful in combat, so I decided to borrow the name instead.


    : Sagojo!?


    : Isn''t that a kappa?


    : This doesn''t look like the Sagojo I know.


    : Where''s the kappa!?


    : The appearance is completely different, lol.


    : Kisaragi-kun, do you even know who Sagojo is? Did you just make this up on the spot?


    : No, this is actually a pretty accurate version of Sagojo.


    : How!? This isn''t a kappa at all!


    The Sagojo I summoned is a reptilian humanoid, wearing a skull necklace and wielding a trident. Its face resembles a crocodile''s, with sharp fangs visible as it swims effortlessly through the water.


    The people commenting that it''s inaccurate are probably thinking of the version of Sagojo from Journey to the West, while those saying it''s accurate might be more familiar with the original depiction in Xuanzang''s Great Tang Records on the Western Regions. Yeah, I admit that using the name Sagojo is a bit confusing.


    What I actually summoned is closer to Jinsha Taisho (the Deep Sand General), but if I summoned the actual Deep Sand General, something as overwhelming as when I summoned the Great Owatatsumi God would probably appear, so I deliberately lowered the power level by naming it Sagojo. Though its appearance was my creation, the entity inside is still something I''ve summoned.


    It''s not as stable as the Twelve Heavenly Generals, but I think I''ve gotten pretty good at pulling this off.


    : This is terrifying.


    : Kisaragi-kun''s summoned Sagojo is scary, and the monsters coming out of the sea are scary, too.


    : What is even happening in this stream?


    : Isn''t this always how it is?


    : Yeah, this is typical Kisaragi-kun madness, lol.


    : Kisaragi really can do anything.


    : Can you just push all the way to the bottom of Nagoya Dungeon now?


    : How many floors does the bottom of Nagoya Dungeon have?


    : How many did Sapporo have again?


    : About 80.


    : Where are we now?


    : 26.


    : Isn''t that way too far?


    As I continue running at a decent pace through the 26th floor, a shark about two meters long suddenly appears and charges at me. Sagojo immediately reacts, overtaking me and slicing the shark in two with his trident. I mean, how do you "slice" with a trident? That doesn''t make any sense¡­ or maybe I shouldn''t think too hard about it?


    Unlike the Shikigami I fully create myself, the ones I summon sometimes act beyond my expectations. In this case, I didn''t think Sagojo could swim faster than me, even in water. With this kind of speed, reaching the 34th floor will be a breeze.


    "And here we are¡ªthe highest floor reached so far in Nagoya Dungeon."


    : You mean your highest floor, right?


    : It''s so dark.


    : You can''t see anything beyond this point.


    : Can you even move forward in this?


    : No way.


    : This isn''t a dungeon that humans can conquer.


    : Wait, does this mean that with Tenko''s power, Kisaragi-kun could dive into the Earth''s deepest oceans too?


    : No way¡­ We''re entering a new age for humanity.


    : For real?


    "¡­Can I just move on now?"


    Why would I be sent to explore the deep sea? I prefer dungeon exploration, thank you very much. People talk about the deep sea as a mystery, but dungeons are just as much a mystery to humanity.


    As some comments mentioned, now that we''re at the 34th floor, it''s so dark that I can barely see ahead. It''s still somewhat manageable, but at this rate, by the time I reach the 40th floor, it''ll be pitch black.


    "I''ll try lighting up my sword with magic as we move ahead."


    : Kisaragi-kun with a glowing sword¡ªit''s basically a lightsaber!


    : It''s less a lightsaber and more like those lights at construction sites, lol.


    : Lol.


    : That''s just a glow stick, man.


    : Don''t call it a glow stick, haha!


    : Now that you mention it, it does look like one of those guiding lights.


    "¡­How''s this?"


    : Why can you change the color!?


    : Don''t make it red, lol.


    : That''s literally a guiding stick!


    : How is this even possible?


    : Turn it into a rainbow-colored glow!


    : Make it a gaming sword!


    You guys sure ask for a lot¡­ If I made it rainbow-colored, it''d look more like a glow stick from a concert than a "gaming sword," you know?


    "How about this?"


    : Stop making it orange like a UO glow stick!


    : It''s way too bright!


    : He can really do anything, lol.


    : The fact that his first thought was a UO glow stick shows just how much of an otaku Kisaragi is.


    : He''s doing this on purpose, right?


    Of course, I''m doing it on purpose. The viewers seemed to enjoy it more than I expected, so I''m just having fun. If I were serious about visibility, white would be enough. But when you mention guiding sticks, gaming lights, and glow sticks, the otaku in me just has to go along with it, right?


    Anyway, enough playing around¡­ I''ll stick with white for proper visibility.


    : Oh, we''re back to the glow stick.


    : Stop calling it a glow stick, lol.


    : Yeah, for visibility, white is the best choice.


    : So, you''re finally moving forward, huh?


    : After all that playing around, how can you be serious now, haha?


    : But the deep sea is terrifying.


    : We''re not in the deep sea yet, though.


    : There''s still a little light left.


    "Based on my prediction, by the time we hit the 40th floor, there will be no more light left. That''s why I need to have this glow stick ready."


    : We''re really calling it a glow stick now¡­


    : Why does he sound so happy about this?


    : The fact that Kisaragi-kun is having fun with glow stick jokes is hilarious.


    : You''re having a blast at the highest floor, lol.


    : Let''s go even deeper!


    Since the viewers are so eager, I''ll keep descending into this deep, dark world¡­ into an unknown realm where no one knows what awaits.

 Chapter 101 - 101: Descent into Darkness: Unearthing the Legends

    As I continued walking through the depths, it grew darker with each passing step. As expected, by the time I reached the 40th floor, the surrounding area was completely shrouded in darkness, and without any source of light, I wouldn''t have been able to see anything. Though I''m unaffected, the way sound travels underwater is different from on land, which feels a little unsettling.


    That said, the speed of sound in water is about five times faster than in air, so it''s not like I can''t hear anything.


    One small comfort is that, unlike the real deep sea, the dungeon''s floor is solid beneath my feet. I don''t have the sensation of sinking into a bottomless abyss¡ªjust walking through darkness.


    : If you''re thalassophobic, just looking at this screen would make you lose it.


    : Even without thalassophobia, this is terrifying.


    : Don''t underestimate thalassophobia!


    : Those with actual thalassophobia have probably already quit watching this stream.


    : Isn''t everyone a little bit thalassophobic?


    : The difference between mild and severe cases is the real issue here.


    : I''ve played deep-sea exploration games before, and this feels just as terrifying.


    : Tenko''s holding the camera, so this really does feel like a third-person game.


    : But the fact that you''re walking underwater with a glowing rod is a bit funny, lol.


    Just like how some people have rare allergies, there are also those with rare phobias. Thalassophobia is one of those things that ordinary people might not understand, but those afflicted claim it can trigger fear without even being near the ocean. People are fascinating.


    Not that I''m completely fearless myself. Walking through a pitch-black sea like this does stir some primal fear. But with the chat and Tenko occasionally talking to me, it doesn''t feel that lonely. The fear of the unknown, not knowing what might emerge from the darkness¡ªthat''s just part of a regular day in a dungeon, so I''m not too bothered.


    : How does Sagojo''s vision even work?


    : I have no idea.


    : He suddenly dashed off into the dark and came back holding a magic stone, lol.


    : How does he even detect things in this deep-sea environment?


    : Probably by instinct, lol.


    : Stop making things up.


    : Isn''t he sensing it through magic?


    Even I don''t know. It''s probably something to do with the water currents or something?


    I may have created the basic structure of Sagojo, but I have no idea what the being I summoned is actually doing.


    "Huh... a shell?"


    After walking around with Sagojo for a while, a giant shell appeared at the edge of my vision. Well, technically, I''m the one who approached it since it wasn''t moving.


    : That shell looks empty.


    : Looks like something already ate it.


    : Why would something get eaten underwater, lol?


    : RIP shell, even in a dungeon it''s just a snack.


    "No, maybe it didn''t have anything inside to begin with? There''s no sign of it being eaten, and monsters in the mid-levels aren''t supposed to attack each other..."


    Just as I was saying that, the shell suddenly moved. What? There''s nothing inside, so why is it moving? As I leaned in to check, the upper part of the shell clamped down, trying to crush me, but Sagojo stepped in and stopped it with one hand.


    : A shell monster with no body, seriously?


    : That''s not even a living creature anymore.


    : Dude, this is a world where golems exist, why are you surprised?


    : Fair point.


    : It''s a dungeon¡ªof course non-living things can move.


    : Why is it covering itself with a shell when there''s nothing inside?


    : No idea, lol.


    The shell tried its hardest to close, but Sagojo was far stronger and it couldn''t budge. When it finally gave up and swung open wide, Sagojo slammed his trident into the lower shell, cracking it. He then smashed it completely, shattering the shell into pieces.


    After twitching once, the shattered shell crumbled away like sand, disappearing into the water.


    "¡­Well, that turned out more brutish than I intended."


    : Isn''t that your creation, though?


    : Isn''t that your Shikigami?


    : Really¡­? S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : RIP shell, complete defeat.


    : Guys, remember this is only the mid-levels.


    : Kisaragi-kun struggling in the mid-levels? That''s never going to happen.


    That''s true. Still, this mid-level area is uncharted territory, and I''d prefer to take my time exploring it. I''m genuinely interested in all the monsters that show up and want to explore more leisurely.


    "Well, let''s keep moving."


    : There''s something on the ground.


    : A magic stone?


    : No, Sagojo is holding the magic stone.


    : Just a rock, probably.


    "¡­This looks like an ore, actually. It''s really small, though, so even if we extracted it, there wouldn''t be much of it."


    On the edge of the small stone I picked up, I could see a faint metallic sheen.


    Now that I think about it, there were rumors that the interior of Nagoya Dungeon contained vast quantities of rare metals. I don''t know if that''s based on actual explorers or if they found something similar in the upper levels, but it''s a known rumor. This means there''s a chance I might discover some rare metal down here.


    : So the rare metals in Nagoya Dungeon were real?


    : Wait, I thought that was just an urban legend, like the Tokugawa hidden treasure!


    : I seriously thought it was a myth.


    : How did that turn into an urban legend so fast?


    : A few decades is enough for it to become one.


    : If you find a huge stash of it, wouldn''t it be more valuable than magic stones?


    : Deep-level magic stones are worth more, though.


    : Then there''s no need to carry the rare metals back, right?


    : There totally is!


    Well, rare metals are incredibly valuable since they''re used in everything from cars and computers to smartphones and more. It''s definitely worth bringing some back, but there are many different types of rare metals. I''m no expert, so I can''t tell what type of ore this is just by looking at it.


    "If I find a larger piece, I''ll consider bringing it back. For now, let''s focus on clearing the dungeon."


    : The Dungeon Association must be freaking out right now.


    : Freaking out, but only Kisaragi-kun can get in here, lol.


    : Haha, true.


    : Can''t they just dive in with proper equipment?


    : Dude, this is a dungeon. How are they going to handle the monsters?


    : Also, how would diving equipment even deal with the water pressure?


    : Nope, guess not.


    : That''s why Nagoya Dungeon isn''t a place for normal humans to explore.


    : What about Kisaragi-kun?


    : He''s not human, obviously.


    : Everyone treating Kisaragi-kun like he''s not human is hilarious, lol.


    : Yeah, clearly a superhuman at this point.

 Chapter 102 - 102: In the Depths of Darkness

    "Can you see this...?"


    : Kind of.


    : I can see Kisaragi-kun clearly, but the dungeon is pitch black.


    : Nope, this is way too much for me.


    : This must be a nightmare for anyone with a fear of darkness.


    : It''s not easy even if you don''t have a phobia.


    : If you have a fear of darkness or claustrophobia, you probably shouldn''t be a dungeon explorer.


    : But this isn''t just any dungeon¡ªit''s a live stream!


    I''ve made it to the 45th floor, and the only light I can see now comes from the sword I''m holding. At this point, no ordinary human could see more than a few centimeters ahead. My sword is glowing like a fluorescent light, but even that''s starting to feel insufficient.


    Thanks to Tenko''s ability, I''m unaffected by the water pressure. Still, I can''t even begin to imagine how intense the pressure is at this depth. It''s said that at depths of over 200 meters, sunlight only accounts for 0.1% of what reaches the surface. That means here, at the 45th floor, the pressure must be at least 20 atmospheres¡ªroughly 20,000 hectopascals. Hard to really grasp those numbers.


    Then again, considering some humans can free-dive over 100 meters, maybe it''s not entirely impossible¡ªat least for a few exceptional people.


    "Is this still broadcasting...?"


    : Whoa, Tenko-san just popped up, and I got startled.


    : Her beautiful face in close-up is going to give me a heart attack.


    : The camera''s showing a bit too much beauty, lol.


    : Camera-san (cause of underwater mobility).


    : Yep, we can see you.


    : It''s a little dark, but Tenko-san is definitely visible.


    "Could you guys stop drooling over someone else''s Shikigami in the comments?"


    : You''re the one who made her beautiful.


    : Come on, we''re just guys.


    : In such a dark and scary place, we''re allowed a little bit of comfort, aren''t we?


    : Exactly!


    : More screen time for the beauty, please!


    : Kisaragi-kun should take over the camera and focus on Tenko-san.


    Sure, I made her beautiful, but who wouldn''t want to make something aesthetically pleasing when creating a vessel for a divine being? I mean, I would''ve been fine with a monstrous form, but since I was summoning something, it felt right to give it a nice appearance... Also, yeah, I admit, as a guy, I thought a beautiful form would be better. Sorry, I''ll own up to that.


    While I was checking the camera and reading the comments, Sagojo was off doing his thing, swimming around and hunting monsters. I can''t see much in this deep-sea environment anymore, so I''m relying on him. It''d be nice if I could somehow share his vision.


    "Isn''t it possible?"


    "Wait, it is?"


    "Well... It depends on how you use your powers, doesn''t it?"


    Maybe I''ll give it a shot. Given that I can''t see anything down here, it''d be great if sharing Sagojo''s vision let me see what he sees. It might be a bit awkward, though, since it''s not my own viewpoint.


    Since I can communicate with my Shikigami mentally, maybe I can extend that to sharing vision... Can I?


    : What''s he doing?


    : Just move forward already!


    : When you go quiet, it''s scarier, so say something.


    : Don''t go silent in the deep sea, please.


    : Moving forward might be even scarier, though.


    "Oh, I did it."


    Not quite, though. Instead of sharing Sagojo''s vision, it feels more like I''m sharing his perception. In short, I can now see the world the way Sagojo does.


    It feels like an incredibly overpowered ability, but having all this information flooding into my head is nauseating, like wearing glasses with the wrong prescription. I won''t be able to maintain this for long. However, it does allow me to quickly get a sense of my surroundings, even if I''m not seeing the bright world I had imagined.


    Instead, I''m perceiving things like heat sources or magic signatures¡ªsomething along those lines.


    "This isn''t going to work for long, so I''ll keep moving by touch. The screen might stay dark, but I''m progressing."


    : Aren''t you going to map the place out?


    "Why would I bother mapping a place no one else can enter? Even if I tried, it''s way too dark to make an accurate map."


    Mapping out a dungeon sounds nice, but it''s not like in games where the layout is neat and organized. I''d have to estimate everything, and in this darkness, it''s impossible.


    I can sense where Sagojo is since we''re connected through magic, so I know roughly where the monsters are. That''s good enough.


    "''Kijin''."


    "Did you call for me, master?"


    "Uh... yeah."


    It throws me off when she answers so casually like that.


    : Oh, she''s here again.


    : Is this going to be a regular thing?


    : Her low energy is kind of unusual.


    : Is it because we''re underwater?


    : Wait, how is Kijin fine underwater?


    : She''s a Shikigami, duh (probably).


    : If Kisaragi-kun''s fine, then the Shikigami are fine too.


    : Kisaragi-kun is only fine because of his Shikigami, so maybe they''re using their powers to survive underwater?


    "Still, this is quite the strange dungeon you''ve entered."


    "Could you not call it strange...? Wait, can you see around us?"


    "Hmm? The surroundings? Yes, of course."


    What? How can she see? Even Sagojo is just following magic traces, yet Kijin can see clearly? But I don''t want to borrow her vision again¡ªit makes me feel queasy.


    "Support Sagojo, would you?"


    "That crocodile with the trident, swimming around wildly?"


    "Yeah."


    "Tenko, I''ll take over guarding our master, so go help that maniac."


    "Oh dear... Master, must you summon such a reckless creature?"


    : Lol.


    : Kijin dishing out insults like it''s nothing. S§×ar?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Isn''t Kijin supposed to be the leader of the Twelve Heavenly Generals? Why is she getting roasted?


    : Maybe Byakko and Seiryu were also roasting her behind the scenes...


    Guys, seriously, get along. You''re both my Shikigami, after all.


    Kijin, stop complaining and just go help Sagojo. I''ve got Tenko with me, so I''m good here. Honestly, if I''m going to get support underwater, I''d prefer Tenko anyway, so Kijin, get going.

 Chapter 103 - 103: Chasing the Dream of an Underwater City

    "As we keep going deeper from the 34th floor, it''s getting darker and darker. Just as I expected, by the time I reached the 40th floor, everything around me was shrouded in darkness. Without any light, it would be impossible to see anything. The only light left is coming from the sword I''m holding, which I''ve turned into a sort of fluorescent light.


    Although I don''t personally feel the effects, the way sound travels underwater is different from on land, so it''s a bit disorienting. Water transmits sound about five times faster than air, so you can still hear things, but it feels different. Fortunately, because this is a dungeon, the ground beneath me is stable.


    Unlike the real deep sea, I don''t feel like I''m falling endlessly into a bottomless abyss, but just walking through complete darkness."


    : This would give anyone with thalassophobia a heart attack.


    : Even without a fear of the ocean, this is terrifying.


    : Thalassophobia is no joke, man.


    : People with that fear probably already noped out of this stream. S§×ar?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Honestly, I feel like everyone has a mild fear of the ocean, at least.


    : It''s the extreme cases that are really intense.


    : I''ve played games where you explore the deep sea, and yeah, they''re terrifying, just like this.


    : With Tenko-san holding the camera, it really feels like watching a third-person game.


    : But seeing you walking around underwater with a glowing sword is kind of funny.


    There are all sorts of phobias out there, just like there are strange allergies people have. Thalassophobia¡ªfear of the ocean¡ªis hard for the average person to understand, but I''ve heard that even looking at the ocean can freak people out. Humanity''s diversity is amazing.


    That said, it''s not like I''m entirely immune to fear. As I walk through this pitch-black underwater world, I can feel a natural sense of unease. However, the comment section and Tenko occasionally talking to me keeps the loneliness at bay. The fear of something lurking in the darkness? Well, that''s just a typical day in the dungeon for me.


    : Hey, how''s Sagojo able to see?


    : No clue, lol.


    : He just swims off into the dark and brings back magic stones.


    : How does he even sense anything in this deep sea?


    : Vibes?


    : Stop making things up, lol.


    : Maybe he senses magic or something.


    Even I don''t know. Maybe he''s detecting changes in the water flow?


    I mean, I did create the basic form of Sagojo, but whatever the entity I summoned is doing, I don''t fully understand it either.


    "Huh... is that a shell?"


    : That shell''s empty, isn''t it?


    : Looks like it''s been eaten.


    : How does something get eaten underwater, lol?


    : RIP shell dude, even in the dungeon, you''re just food.


    "No, maybe it never had anything inside to begin with? There''s no sign it was eaten, and the monsters here shouldn''t prey on each other..."


    Just as I said that, the shell suddenly started moving. Wait, why is it moving if there''s nothing inside? As I peered into the shell, it tried to slam shut on me, but Sagojo darted in and caught it with one hand.


    : A shell monster that moves on its own? For real?


    : It''s not even alive, lol.


    : It''s a dungeon; golems exist, so why not?


    : That''s fair.


    : I still don''t get why it''s moving with no insides.


    : Who knows? lol


    The shell tried its best to close, but Sagojo''s strength was too much for it. After a moment, it gave up and opened wide. Sagojo then smashed his trident into the lower half of the shell, cracking it before pulverizing it into pieces. The shattered shell twitched once before dissolving into dust.


    "...That was way more brute force than I expected."


    : Dude, you made him, remember?


    : He''s your Shikigami, lol.


    : RIP shell monster.


    : Let''s not forget, this is still only the mid-levels.


    : There''s no way Kisaragi-kun is going to struggle in the mid-levels.


    Well, that''s true. But since these mid-level floors are unexplored, I want to take my time and examine everything. Every monster I encounter is interesting, and I''d love to explore them all thoroughly.


    "Anyway, let''s keep moving forward."


    : Something''s on the ground.


    : Is that a magic stone?


    : Nah, Sagojo''s already carrying the magic stone.


    : Looks like just a rock.


    "This... looks like an ore. It''s tiny, so even if I extracted it, there wouldn''t be much, but there''s definitely some metallic sheen to it."


    There were rumors that the Nagoya Dungeon was full of rare metals. I don''t know if someone who''s actually explored here started that rumor, or if they found traces of it in the upper levels. Either way, it seems like there''s some truth to it. So I might just come across some rare metals deeper down.


    : So the rare metals in the Nagoya Dungeon are real, huh?


    : Wait, I thought that was just a myth, like Tokugawa''s buried treasure?


    : I honestly thought it was just an urban legend.


    : It''s a little early for it to be an urban legend, don''t you think?


    : Give it a few decades, and anything can turn into one.


    : If you find a big enough chunk, you could sell it for more than a magic stone.


    : A deep-level magic stone would still sell for more.


    : Then why even bother with rare metals, lol.


    Well, rare metals are valuable since they''re used in everything from cars to computers and smartphones. Still, I don''t know enough to identify what kind of ore this is just by looking at it.


    "If I find something bigger, I''ll consider bringing it back. For now, the focus is on clearing the dungeon."


    : The dungeon association must be freaking out, lol.


    : Freak out all they want, Kisaragi-kun''s the only one who can explore this place.


    : LMAO.


    : What if someone in full diver gear tries?


    : This is a dungeon, bro. What about the monsters?


    : Not to mention, how would they deal with the water pressure?


    : Yeah, that''s not happening.


    : That''s why Nagoya Dungeon isn''t meant for regular humans.


    : What about Kisaragi-kun?


    : He''s not human, clearly.


    : Lol, at this point, he''s just a superhuman.


    "Anyway, I haven''t bumped into anything, so it seems like finding these rare metals is a bit out of my reach right now."


    Even so, it''s funny how this place still feels like a proper dungeon despite being in complete darkness. The ground is stable, almost like concrete. If I somehow lit up this entire area, I wonder if it''d look like an ancient city. That''d be a cool discovery. I love stuff like that.


    "Let''s keep moving forward and chase after the dream of an underwater city, shall we?"


    : What''s that supposed to mean, lol?


    : Stop making up random settings.


    : Your thought process is all over the place, man.

 Chapter 104 - 104: The Sky Below, The Sea Above

    "Ha?"


    : Huh?


    : ???


    : What the hell is this?


    : ????????


    : What''s going on?


    : This makes no sense.


    As I descended the stairs from the 59th to the 60th floor of the Nagoya Dungeon, the water suddenly vanished. Completely baffled, I turned around to see that, as if the world had flipped upside down, the water surface was now rippling above me, defying gravity.


    I''ve explored countless dungeons, but I''ve never experienced anything like this. My mind went blank. The comment section is filled with question marks, and I''m pretty sure everyone watching stopped thinking at the same time.


    "...What the heck is going on here?"


    : I seriously have no idea.


    : This is the first time I''ve seen Kisaragi-kun this confused.


    : Well, yeah, if the water''s floating above you¡­


    : Is there no gravity?


    "There is gravity¡­ Tenko?"


    ''...There''s no water pressure, and air is present. It seems we''ve left the ocean behind.''


    "No, that''s not what I meant."


    It doesn''t look like staying on the stairs will answer any questions, so I guess I''ll keep moving forward. Even though we''ve exited the water, it''s still dark around here, and I don''t like it.


    Proceeding cautiously down the stairs, I eventually reached what appeared to be a door at the entrance to the 60th floor. A door in a dungeon? I''ve never seen anything like this before. But I won''t know anything unless I open it, so here goes.


    "...It''s so bright."


    : What''s going on?


    : Is this a tropical island or something?


    : So this is the 60th floor?


    : What happened to the water?


    : Look closer, it''s still there.


    When I opened the door, the blazing sun was shining down on me. Having just come from the pitch-black depths of the sea, my eyes couldn''t handle the sudden brightness, and I had to shut them. It might take a few minutes for my eyes to adjust.


    As I tried to get used to the light, I could hear the sound of gentle waves in the distance. Slowly, I opened my eyes, looking up to see a shining sun... and the ocean floating upside down in the sky.


    "What the heck is up with this ridiculous dungeon?"


    : I have no idea.


    : The ocean is... floating above you?


    : What even is this?


    : I can''t process this information.


    : I can only laugh at this point.


    : I''ve stopped thinking.


    : Time to leave this to the theorists.


    : Are there even theorists watching this stream? S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    No matter how many times I blinked, the sea floating above me didn''t disappear. It wasn''t like a mirage or something faintly visible; it was definitely there, solid, but no water droplets were falling. The sound of the waves was coming from above, which means... maybe there''s a beach somewhere up there... in the sky.


    And even though there''s a massive body of water hanging over me, there''s also a sun shining directly above. The sunlight is somehow penetrating the water, but it''s lighting up this entire place¡­ though I doubt that''s a real sun, considering this is a dungeon.


    "So you''re telling me I have to walk through this empty space?"


    : No, isn''t it just that the ocean floor dried up or something?


    : Look at all the limp seaweed, lol.


    : Why is the seabed at your feet, but the ocean is overhead?


    : This dungeon has so many mysteries.


    : I knew the Nagoya Dungeon was weird, but this is on another level. I didn''t expect it to be this insane.


    : Come on, laugh, viewers! No one''s seen a dungeon like this before.


    Yeah, I bet no one has ever seen anything like this. Sure, there have been some crazy dungeons before, but I''ve never seen one this absurdly otherworldly.


    "But you know, I think dungeons are supposed to be confusing and nonsensical like this¡­ oh, I''m talking about in games."


    : Really?


    : In roguelikes, it''s not that strange.


    : Some games do have weird dungeons, though.


    : Recently, dungeon crawling has just been regular underground stuff.


    : Is there a game with a setting this bizarre?


    : Someone should make a game based on this Nagoya Dungeon.


    : Any game developers watching, please make this happen.


    "Yeah, a game where you make real dungeons even more fun could be interesting. If you need help with location research, just hit me up."


    What games or novels need is just enough realism to keep things exciting. If you try to make everything too realistic, it gets boring. I think a game just needs a little bit of realism¡ªjust enough to keep you excited.


    These days, game companies focus on making even magic feel realistic and theoretical, but who needs that? I''d be happy with some over-the-top magic like summoning meteors.


    "Hm?"


    I heard the sound of water being stirred above me and looked up¡­ only to see a multi-headed monster diving out of the sea above, heading straight for me.


    Before I could react, Sagojo and Kichijin leaped upward to intercept it.


    : Is that a Leviathan?


    : Why do people always call any giant sea snake a Leviathan?


    : There''s that game where you explore the sea and fight Leviathans.


    : That game wasn''t even made by a Japanese developer, though.


    : It''s funny how we''re all freaking out about the environment, but no one''s surprised by the monster.


    "Tenko, you don''t need to hold the camera anymore."


    ''Understood.''


    Tenko let go of the camera, and it floated above my shoulder as usual, freeing her hands. Now she could focus on dealing with that snake.


    There are five heads visible. If there were eight, I could''ve called it Yamata no Orochi, and if there were nine, it''d be a Hydra, but with just five... well, it''s not really worth giving it a fancy name.


    Sagojo and Kichijin each took on one head, while Tenko used water magic to attack another. That leaves me with the remaining two.


    "I''m out of the water now, so I can finally use magic properly¡­ alright!"


    : Electricity crackling.


    : You really like lightning magic, don''t you?


    What can I say? As a guy, shooting lightning is just cool. Between fire, wind, lightning, and ice, guys are more likely to be drawn to lightning or ice. At least, that''s how I grew up.


    When I fired lightning at the two heads coming toward me, they thrashed about in shock before crashing to the ground. The heads the shikigami were fighting were also slammed into the ground alongside them.


    ''It''s fully descended now.''


    The multi-headed snake that had lunged out of the sea above us had a thick body that split into five heads midway down. Judging by the way it came straight for us, this thing might be the boss of this floor.


    Since there''s no information about this dungeon, I''m figuring everything out as I go.


    : That boss looks weak.


    : It at least looks intimidating, though.


    : But it got knocked down in the first attack.


    : A boss that gets instantly wrecked isn''t exactly strong, huh?


    : Kisaragi-kun seems stronger than the boss itself.


    Well, I guess I''ll just keep testing it out.

 Chapter 105 - 105: The Ancient City Bathed in Moonlight

    "Whoa."


    Even though the five heads had been slammed into the ground and looked like they were finished, they all got up much more energetically than I expected. Now, all ten eyes were glaring straight at me. I wonder if dungeon monsters instinctively or through some magical connection realize that I''m the one controlling the shikigami.


    Then, all five heads suddenly opened their mouths and shot beams of heat. I mean, you''d think a dragon that just jumped out of the water would shoot water, right? But no, it''s heat rays for some reason.


    ''Water Dragon.''


    As the five heat beams aimed to incinerate me, Tenko summoned a massive amount of water from the ocean above, shaping it into a gigantic dragon that swallowed both the beams and the dragon.


    : Isn''t Tenko-san way too strong?


    : Yeah, her abilities are crazy, but she only works well in water environments, right?


    : I don''t think Kisaragi-kun would use a shikigami with such limited abilities.


    : Is water really that limiting, though?


    : Considering how few dungeons have water, it''s pretty restricted.


    The dragon, completely enveloped by Tenko''s water magic, probably wouldn''t take much damage since it was originally swimming in the ocean. But if I freeze the water, that could be a different story. Instead of summoning a shikigami that controls ice, I decided to use ice magic myself to freeze Tenko''s water dragon solid.


    The dragon, now encased in ice, was quickly targeted by Sagojo, who unleashed some kind of strange water wave from his trident.


    "What''s that?"


    : Wait, you don''t know?


    : Kisaragi-kun, seriously¡­


    : At least know all your shikigami''s abilities, smh.


    : Another unknown ability from your own shikigami, lol.


    Well, I can''t help it if I don''t know. Still, whatever that water wave from Sagojo''s trident was, it had the power to shatter the massive block of ice that contained the dragon. It looked like nothing more than a wave of water, but somehow it turned into an incredible force. I''m really curious about how that works.


    ''...No chance to shine.''


    Kichijin, who hadn''t really done anything in the fight, sulked while picking up the magic stone that had fallen. Well, Kichijin is versatile, but not as specialized in certain areas as other shikigami.


    "So, the water''s all gone and the sea floor is just... left here?"


    : Pretty much, yeah.


    : What about it?


    : Isn''t this a gold mine for rare metals?


    : Is it really that easy?


    I had the same thought. Up until now, I''d ignored the possibility of finding rare metals because I didn''t know how to extract them, and it was too dark to see anything anyway. But now that it''s so clearly visible, it feels wrong to leave it behind.


    : But the lower levels might have the same layout.


    : Why not check them out first?


    : You can gather rare metals on your way back.


    : Dungeon exploration should take priority over the rare metals, right?


    : Just do what you want, Kisaragi-kun.


    : Yeah, go with what feels right.


    "Yeah, you''re probably right about leaving it for the way back."


    I decided to summon Kasha now to carry all the magic stones we''d collected along the way. I felt a bit weird about summoning Kasha while we were underwater earlier, but now that it''s getting heavy, I need the help.


    The one thing that would really annoy me now is if the next floor was flooded again. Just when I thought I was done with water, having to go back into it would be a pain. Once humans experience comfort, it''s hard to let go of it¡ªkind of like how you can bear summer heat without air conditioning until you''ve used it, and then you can''t stand even 30-degree weather without turning it on.


    As I approached the stairs to the 61st floor, there was another door, so I opened it cautiously. Peeking down, it didn''t look like there was any water. Maybe the floors below aren''t submerged?


    "Alright, let''s head down."


    : Looking forward to seeing the deep floors of Nagoya Dungeon.


    : If there''s no water, anyone can explore it!


    : Yeah, except for the journey down to the 60th floor, lol.


    : Kisaragi-kun, make sure to drain the water from floors 11 to 59 for us.


    : How exactly is he supposed to do that?


    : Just drain it like it''s leftover bathwater or something, lol.


    When I finished descending the stairs, there was another door at the bottom. A little annoyed, I pushed open the heavy steel door¡­ and soft, moonlit light poured in.


    "¡­There''s seriously an ancient city down here."


    : That''s so cool.


    : The atmosphere is full of mystery.


    : So wait, is this dungeon some ancient civilization''s relic that just surfaced a few decades ago?


    : Stop spouting random conspiracy theories in the comment section.


    : If you''ve got crazy ideas, post them on social media, lol.


    Can I really call it an ancient city? Walking along a stone-paved path lined with columns, I could see ruins of what were clearly once buildings, and in the distance, there was a massive stone castle-like structure. Also, this 61st floor is absurdly large.


    "It might be faster to survey this from above."


    Looking up, I saw what looked like a moon hovering over the water''s surface. So the ocean is floating above again... What is with this dungeon? Unlike the 60th floor, though, there are clearly many man-made structures here, with huge stone pillars rising from the water.


    Using magic, I created footholds in the air, ascending higher like I was climbing stairs. From up here, I could see the vastness of the 61st floor.


    : Isn''t this way too big?


    : Yeah, it''s insanely large.


    : Totally gives off ancient ruins vibes.


    : There''s something incredibly romantic about submerged ancient ruins.


    : The idea of a dungeon filled with submerged ruins isn''t just an archaeological discovery¡ªit''s world-changing.


    I''m no historian, so I have no idea how old these ruins are or how much they might be worth. Still, I can''t help but feel excited at the thought of exploring these ancient remnants.


    "Hm?"


    As I was climbing the transparent steps and surveying the area, my phone suddenly rang. The caller ID said it was Ryuusuke Aizawa.


    "Hello?"


    ''Hey¡­ I just got a report from the Union that your stream has become quite a big deal. Just to double-check, where exactly are you right now?''


    "I''m on the 61st floor of the Nagoya Dungeon." Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    He let out a deep, exhausted sigh.


    ''I''m not saying you need to come back to the surface right now, but could you collect some of the stone materials from that ruin you''re exploring? Even just some loose pieces would do.''


    "Sure. I''ll also take some pictures of the area."


    : It''s hilarious how we can hear the whole conversation.


    : The Union''s not the only one going crazy¡ªsocial media and the Dungeon Association are in an uproar too, lol.


    : I bet historians and researchers studying dungeons are probably losing their minds over this.


    : I''m in a dungeon history class at college, and let me tell you, the professors were already losing it when they saw the footage from the Shibuya Dungeon''s deep floors.


    : Lol.


    : Those professors are probably long gone by now.

 Chapter 106 - 106: Showdown with the Fortress City

    "Still, I wonder... was this civilization built after the dungeon formed, or did the civilization exist first and then get swallowed by the dungeon?"


    The third possibility could be that the dungeon was simply designed to look like a collapsed civilization, and no humans ever actually lived here. It would be a huge headache for historians, but it''s not entirely impossible.


    After all, the Shibuya Dungeon had a whole sea inside it, so it''s not that far-fetched for the Nagoya Dungeon to have buildings that look like they belong to some lost civilization... No, actually, that is pretty strange when I think about it.


    : Can you see the edge?


    : Nope.


    : This floor is insanely huge. Are you seriously going to explore all of it by yourself?


    : Come on, if Kisaragi-kun managed to explore the deep sea, this should be nothing for him.


    "Well, I guess the first thing to do is find the stairs... If there are no stairs, then I guess this 61st floor is the final level of the Nagoya Dungeon."


    : That''d be awesome if this is the final floor.


    : Why?


    : Gets me right in the feels.


    : Why are you getting emotional for no reason?


    : In the end, the Nagoya Dungeon is still an impossible mess that only Kisaragi can conquer. Can someone save us poor Nagoya locals?


    : Wait, Nagoya Prefecture?


    : You can''t say that! It''s Aichi Prefecture! "Nagoya Prefecture" is a forbidden term that will enrage Aichi citizens!


    : Is this a trading card game or something?


    : A card battle of angry internet comments!


    Hmm... I''m flying around, surveying the dungeon, but I can''t find any sign of stairs.


    It might be unrelated, but the ceiling on this 61st floor is insanely high. I can fly up and look down at the entire floor from above. As long as I don''t accidentally dive into the sea floating overhead, I can explore the dungeon in relative comfort.


    : Why are you just casually flying?


    : Well, it''s Kisaragi, after all.


    : If Kamishiro can fly, of course Kisaragi can do it too. No one''s even questioning it anymore.


    : Didn''t he mention being able to fly before?


    : Pretty sure he was flying in a previous stream.


    : Is everyone''s memory this bad?


    Now I''m curious about what''s inside that floating sea. That pale glowing object is just some crystal, but... maybe I''ll ask Tenko to help me dive into the sea and check it out.


    "Something''s below us, my lord."


    "Huh?"


    Below?


    Tenko, who had been quietly flying alongside me, pointed down at something glinting in the light.


    "Is that... metal?"


    : It''s probably a rare metal or something. (Totally guessing)


    : Maybe it''s a giant raw ore?


    : Aren''t rare metals usually buried deep underground?


    : Well, it is a dungeon...


    : Stop using "because it''s a dungeon" as a catch-all explanation for everything!


    : That''s just lazy reasoning.


    I was about to take a closer look when suddenly, the metallic object started whirring and fired a barrage of magic bullets at me like a gatling gun.


    "Whoa!"


    : What the heck is that?


    : Probably an anti-aircraft gun. (Mentally checked out)


    : Wow, ancient civilizations were really advanced, huh?


    : No one can keep up with this anymore. Lol.


    : Seriously, how are we supposed to process ancient buildings in a dungeon with anti-aircraft guns?


    Magic bullets, solidified into projectiles, came at me in a rapid barrage, just like a real anti-aircraft cannon. This is bad. Unlike Kamishiro, I can''t fly at absurd speeds, so my ability to dodge is pretty limited.


    "Kochin!"


    Realizing I couldn''t avoid it, I quickly deployed a barrier using Kochin. Even though they''re firing a lot of magic bullets, my barrier is made of denser magic, so it should be able to hold them off.


    As soon as the shooting started, Sagojo and Kijin were already on the move from below. If everything goes well, they''ll destroy the anti-aircraft gun, but... summoning four of the Twelve Heavenly Generals at once is starting to drain me a bit. If they were regular familiars, I could summon as many as I wanted without an issue, but...


    : This feels like a game I''ve played before.


    : Yeah, but instead of Kisaragi, your character was probably a fighter jet or something.


    : Kisaragi is a fighter jet...?


    : Can fly, summon an army of familiars, is super strong, can put up barriers... Yep, definitely overpowered.


    : Nerf him.


    : Do we even need anyone else at this point?


    : Instead of nerfing Kisaragi, maybe buff all the other explorers?


    : That''s not gonna happen.


    They''re still firing wildly even though it''s clearly not working, so I fired back a concentrated lightning beam, and for some reason, three more anti-aircraft guns popped up from different directions.


    "Kijin, can you check it out?"


    "Check it out? It''s literally just a gatling gun sticking out of the stone floor."


    Apparently, according to Kijin, the anti-aircraft guns are just sprouting out of the stone pavement. Sagojo and Kijin split up and destroyed them, while Tenko pulled water from the overhead sea to take care of the remaining ones. But... this probably isn''t the end.


    "I''ll keep watching the area... Wait."


    Just as I was about to suggest keeping an eye on the surroundings, the top part of the castle-like building in the center of the ancient city opened up, revealing a gigantic railgun-like weapon. And of course, it was pointed at... me.


    Reflexively, I had Kochin put up a maximum-strength barrier, just as a massive magic projectile slammed into it. Sparks of magic flew as the barrier and the magic shell clashed. I could feel cold sweat running down my back. If that had hit me directly, I''d definitely be dead.


    : Holy crap.


    : Kisaragi might actually die here.


    : This dungeon is no joke.


    : This isn''t something we can laugh about.


    This 61st floor is definitely the final level. And judging by how the ancient city''s weapons are reacting, whatever controls them is the boss of this dungeon. I haven''t seen them yet, but if they''re this aggressive, they''re just asking to be hunted down and eliminated. I''ll find them, and I''ll destroy them.


    "Nagoya Dungeon... the complete conquest is just within reach."


    : Why do you sound like you''re having fun? S§×ar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Because he''s a battle maniac.


    : Can''t deny that.


    : You were just about to die, weren''t you?


    : Was he, though?


    : Honestly, it didn''t even feel like he was in real danger.


    : I mean, if that had hit him, he''d definitely be dead.


    : Hmm... hard to say.


    : It didn''t hit, so no problem, right?


    : Honestly, I feel like that was probably the first and last chance this dungeon had to kill Kisaragi. Now it''s over for the boss.


    Looking at how this fight''s been going, it''s clear now: this city itself is the real enemy. That''s fine with me. I''ll take this entire ancient city down.

 Chapter 107 - 107: When in Doubt, Blow It Up

    "Kijin-san, hey."


    ¡ºWhat is it?¡»


    "See anything? Like, the presence controlling this ruin or something?"


    If there''s no such presence... that would mean the ruin itself decided to attack me, which is just absurd, but it''s starting to feel like the only explanation.


    ¡ºNothing out of the ordinary caught my eye... It really does seem like this ruin itself developed some kind of will and chose to attack you.¡»


    "Alright then, let''s just smash the whole thing."


    If the ruins are acting like a monster, then there''s no reason not to destroy it. And even if the attack was actually caused by some hidden enemy using the ruins, the dungeon''s structure usually regenerates. As long as it''s part of the dungeon, it''ll probably rebuild itself... probably. No need to worry too much.


    : Aren''t these ruins super valuable or something?


    : Can''t prioritize treasure over staying alive, dude.


    : Yeah, if the ruins themselves are hostile, it''s fair game to wreck them.


    : So, wait... does that make the enemies here, like, inorganic monsters?


    : I don''t even know anymore.


    : This whole ancient-city-themed dungeon is beyond comprehension.


    : I still can''t get over how the Nagoya Dungeon was flooded up to floor 59, but then, from 60 onwards, it''s just... dry? How does that even work?


    : Don''t worry, no one understands it. We''ve all stopped trying.


    : What''s comforting about that exactly...?


    "Kijin, I''m relying on you for this one. No one''s stronger than you among the Twelve Heavenly Generals."


    ¡ºH-hey! You can count on me!¡»


    Despite her eccentric personality, Kijin is one of the familiars I trust the most. Actually, she''s probably the closest to my ideal among all the ones I''ve summoned. Though I''ll admit... I sometimes wish her personality was less, well, weird. Still, she''s powerful and reliable when it counts, and even with her quirks, I don''t dislike her at all.


    Meanwhile, Sagojo has already finished smashing the last gatling gun. I''m not sure what''s coming next, but staying in the air makes me a sitting duck. Better to land on solid ground.


    ¡ºYou''re surrounded.¡»


    "Wait, what? Already?"


    ¡ºYes. I''m not sure how they got into position without being detected, though.¡»


    Tenko says she senses their presence through the movement of moisture in the air. That makes no sense to me¡ªwhat does "moisture movement" even mean? Maybe she can detect subtle disturbances in the air like ripples on water? I don''t really get the science behind it, but since her danger sense has never been wrong, I''ll trust her.


    "...Golems?"


    : They look kinda small for golems, though.


    : They look more like magical soldiers¡ªmechanical, maybe?


    : Another weird piece of ancient tech in this dungeon...


    : This dungeon feels like it''s just throwing in random stuff at this point.


    The creatures surrounding us emerge from the ruins¡ªhumanoid figures, roughly my height, made entirely of stone. Each one holds a weapon¡ªswords, spears, bows¡ªand they stand in formation, ready for battle. Maybe these guys were the ones controlling the weapon systems earlier? But how did they manage to hide until now? There are at least fifty of them.


    The soldiers are eerily still, each watching me from the shadows, keeping their distance.


    "Tenko."


    ¡ºWaterfall.¡»


    They''re keeping their distance for now, but I''m not interested in playing their game. Tenko summons a massive surge of water from the sea above, crashing it down on the soldiers like a waterfall. The sheer force obliterates the stone warriors and washes away sections of the ancient city. The best part? Thanks to Tenko''s magic, I remain unaffected by the water, as usual.


    : Wow, water is OP, huh.


    : I mean, yeah, water pressure alone is enough to kill people.


    : How many tons of water was that, anyway?


    : I swear, people always throw around numbers like "trillions of tons" when it comes to water.


    : If it were really trillions of tons, this dungeon would be a pile of rubble.


    The flood sweeps away most of the enemies, but I notice one soldier gliding through the air, heading straight for me. Is that... a jetpack? No, wait¡ªit''s using magic to fly.


    This whole situation feels like I''m stuck in some kind of fantasy-mecha anime. If only their weapons weren''t so primitive...


    ¡ºHah!¡»


    The flying soldier comes hurtling toward me, showing no signs of stopping. Maybe it''s planning to blow itself up? Before it can reach me, Kijin opens fire with a volley of magic bullets, shredding the flying enemy mid-air.


    "Seriously... What even is this dungeon?"


    : Beats me.


    : First it gives us ancient railguns, now we''re fighting stone-age magical warriors. Make it make sense.


    : I''ve officially reached the conclusion that I understand nothing.


    : Welcome to the enlightenment club¡ªignorance is bliss.


    : One thing''s for sure¡ªthis dungeon is ridiculously hard.


    The area is now soaked, thanks to Tenko''s magic, and for the moment, there are no signs of more enemies. But with how unpredictable things have been, it feels like trouble could strike at any moment. I can''t shake the sense that the entire city itself is alive... and hostile.


    "...Would blowing up the city fix this?"


    : Did... Did he just say that?


    : Please tell me I misheard that.


    : Nagoya Dungeon about to go boom.


    : "Wait, is there insurance for this?"


    : No. No, there''s not.


    Honestly, if blowing everything up solves the problem, then that''s the easiest option. I could summon a god to help, but unleashing a massive explosion sounds like a much simpler solution. If the association complains, I''ll just tell them it was an emergency. They won''t argue with that. Flawless logic. Perfect.


    With that settled, my next target is that weird castle-looking building in the center of the ruins. I haven''t checked inside yet, but if something is controlling the dungeon, it''s probably in there. Time to proceed with caution.


    : Is he seriously gonna blow up the entire place?


    : 100%. No doubt about it.


    : I respect the commitment to chaos.


    : "If in doubt, blow it all up"¡ªa timeless strategy.


    : Let''s goooo! Explosion gang, rise up!


    Magic works like anything else: compress it too much, and it''ll explode. A big enough magical blast could take out this whole city. Kamishiro managed to wipe out an entire floor in the Sapporo Dungeon, so the same principle applies here. S§×ar?h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Honestly, I don''t see anything wrong with this plan.


    : Yeah, if the dungeon''s giving you trouble, just nuke it.


    : Why fight fair when you can fight with explosions?


    "Alright then. Time to finish this."


    As I fix my eyes on the castle in the distance, my hands tingle with compressed magic. This city has thrown everything it could at me... but I''m done playing by its rules. If this ancient ruin wants to act like an enemy, then I''ll give it the end it deserves.

 Chapter 108 - 108: A Dungeon Core and a Job Well Done

    As I get closer to the center, soldiers that were nowhere to be seen before start emerging from all directions. I get the feeling that they''re trying to stop me from reaching the center. I don''t know what''s waiting for me there, but I can''t help but feel a bit excited.


    While I keep the Guchin barrier up, I ignore the soldiers as much as possible and leave them to Sagojo, Kijin, and Tenko.


    Sagojo, likely because of his divine rank, outshines the other two when it comes to sheer offensive power. The torrents of water from his trident roar as they tear through both the soldiers and the ancient city. I guess being near water makes him even stronger?


    ¡ºI can''t believe that this brute of a crocodile is being the most useful...! Me too!¡»


    ¡ºWater Dragon!¡»


    I ignore Kijin''s rant, and Tenko summons three massive water dragons from the ocean above. These ones are even bigger than before.


    Whether it''s because the dragons appeared or because I''m closing in on the center, I don''t know¡ªbut a massive robot, around 10 meters tall, emerges from the side of the central area. Though it looks robotic, it also seems like an enlarged version of the stone soldiers we''ve been fighting, just with more advanced weaponry.


    : Is this some kind of monster showdown?


    : Lol


    : It''s literally a kaiju battle now.


    : How is this even a dungeon livestream? This feels like a movie.


    : If it''s human-sized, I''d call it a soldier, but at this size, it''s definitely a golem.


    : What does that even mean?


    : If it''s made of stone, it''s a golem¡ªend of story.


    One of the water dragons flies straight at the giant golem, but the "eye" on its face fires a red beam, vaporizing the dragon instantly. The beam hits the ruins below, triggering an explosion... Should a guardian really be blowing up the city it''s supposed to protect?


    The golem turns toward us, raising a massive fist to slam down. But before it can, Sagojo charges forward¡ªwater bursts from his trident, forming a spear that pierces the golem''s approaching fist.


    : Too strong, lol.


    : What the hell are you even making?


    : Kisaragi-kun, seriously, what are you doing?


    : How are you able to create monsters so easily?


    "Uh... I don''t really know."


    Honestly, my idea of Jinsha was just that he''d swim effortlessly and take down enemies with his trident. I never imagined he''d control water like Tenko and obliterate a giant golem in one hit. I guess the entity I summoned ended up being a lot stronger than I expected. Godly summons have a lot of unknowns, after all.


    With the golem defeated, I reach what looks like the central castle. I leave the entrance to Sagojo and enter with Tenko and Kijin, just as I expected¡ªanother swarm of soldiers.


    "Wipe them out!"


    I fire lightning bolts, Kijin uses fire, and Tenko unleashes waves of water, mowing down the soldiers as we charge forward. After running through the building and clearing out enemies, we come to an open space. At the center, I spot what looks like a throne. Floating above it, in defiance of gravity, is a purple crystal I''ve never seen before.


    : Is that a dungeon core, like the ones in novels?


    : Really? If we destroy it, will the dungeon collapse?


    : Wait, are dungeon cores actually real?


    : It''s just a guess, though.


    : We don''t even know if it''s really a core.


    "Let''s just attack it for now."


    : Wut?


    : LOL


    : Muscle-brain logic at its finest.


    In games, the standard approach is to attack anything you don''t understand. I point my finger at the crystal¡ªlet''s call it the "dungeon core"¡ªand fire a lightning beam at it. But instead of shattering or reflecting the attack, the lightning is absorbed into the crystal, vanishing without a trace.


    "Hmm... Did it just absorb my magic?"


    ¡ºThat''s what it looked like. But if it can absorb all your magic so easily... wouldn''t destroying it be impossible?¡»


    : Why is destruction always your first solution?


    : What if destroying it makes the dungeon collapse?


    : Imagine if it all came crashing down, lol.


    : That crystal definitely looks shady.


    "Guess I''ll try touching it next."


    If I can''t destroy it, the logical next step is to touch it.


    When I reach out, the crystal feels slightly warm to the touch. But what''s really strange is that, even though we''ve been swarmed by soldiers until now, not a single one has appeared since we entered this room. Is the crystal the key to all of this?


    "I have no idea what''s going on, so let''s take this crystal home as a trophy."


    : Can you even do that?


    : Eh, why not?


    : And just like that, Nagoya Dungeon is over!


    : That was anticlimactic for a final floor. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : "Anticlimactic" (after fighting soldiers, robots, and ancient weapons).


    : Yeah, sure, lol.


    The crystal isn''t as heavy as I expected. Maybe it''s because it was floating? It''s about two meters tall¡ªdefinitely bigger than me. Hopefully, moving it won''t trigger an alarm or cause a bunch of enemies to show up...


    "Huh?"


    The moment I shift the crystal, the surrounding noise vanishes.


    ¡ºThe enemies... they''ve stopped moving.¡»


    Tenko peeks into the room and confirms that all enemy movement has ceased. So, everything we fought earlier was controlled by this crystal? That''s... surprisingly straightforward. Is it really okay to end like this?


    : That was too easy.


    : Not every dungeon raid needs a dramatic ending, you know.


    : Who even are you?


    : Some dungeons just end abruptly.


    : "Abruptly" (with floods and giant robots).


    : Reminder: No one but Kisaragi-kun could even reach this place.


    Even so... a crystal that absorbs magic power¡ªcould it have practical uses? Like storing magic to function as a massive generator?


    These days, we generate electricity using disposable magic stones, which means we need a constant supply of them. But with this crystal, we could store magic power instead. I just don''t know how we''d extract it, though...


    Well, anyway, this is how we conquered a dungeon that was supposedly impossible for humanity to clear. Problem solved. If the enemies had kept spawning endlessly, I''d have just blown up the entire city¡ªbut luckily, that wasn''t necessary.


    No problem. Momantai!

 Chapter 109 - 109: Thread 14: Kisaragis Conquest

    1: Anonymous Explorer


    This is wild, isn''t it?


    Here''s the news article:


    ¡º[BREAKING] Nagoya Dungeon Reportedly Cleared to the Final Floor¡»


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Here''s the actual stream:


    ¡ºClearing the Dungeon¡»


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    2: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    This is not something you can just brush off with a "wild, isn''t it?"


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    OP is really good at sharing links, huh?


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾3


    Just posting URLs makes you "good"? Standards seem a bit too loose here.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    ÈçÔ¾ý¤Ã¤ÆUNKNOWN¤Ç¤·¤ç?


    ŒgëH�Š¤¤¤Î?


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾5


    Just watch for yourself. He''s absurdly strong. Other EX-rank explorers are also ridiculously overpowered, but Kisaragi stands out¡ªlike he''s on a different level. Of course, who''s the "strongest" depends on the situation and conditions.


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾5


    He''s EX-rank. Weakness isn''t even an option.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, we only started getting a sense of how powerful the EX-rank is because Kisaragi started streaming. Before that, we didn''t even really know how strong the S-ranks were.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    ÑÔ¤¦¤ÆÉñŒmË—÷¤ÏÎô¤«¤éÈÕ±¾×î�Š¤È¤Ïºô¤Ð¤ì¤Æ¤¿¤À¤í


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾9


    Yeah, but now people can visualize what "strongest" means. Anyone can call someone the strongest without proof, but showing it is another story.


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    Ãû¹ÅÎÝ¥À¥ó¥¸¥ç¥ó¹¥ÂÔ¤·¤¿¤Ã¤Æ¥Þ¥¸?


    Ë®’i¤¤¤¿?


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    ¡ùˮû¤·¤¿¤Þ¤Þ¤Ç¤¹


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    Clearing a fully submerged dungeon is some next-level madness.


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    If it''s still underwater, only Kisaragi can do it. That''s so unfair.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾15


    I watched the stream¡ªit was clear that only Kisaragi could pull off this kind of run. So, even though it feels like a weird kind of victory, a clear is a clear.


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾15


    It''s the same with the Takayama and Sapporo Dungeons. Even after someone clears them, not everyone can reach the lower levels.


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    Just because it''s been cleared doesn''t mean everyone can instantly reach the final floor.


    18: Anonymous Explorer S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The only question is whether only Kisaragi can do it, or if other elites can handle it too.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    What if another explorer who can dive underwater shows up? Could they make it?


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾19


    No chance. There''s no way anyone else can navigate that kind of darkness.


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    With Nagoya cleared, that makes three cleared dungeons in Japan, including the recent Sapporo Dungeon.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    How many dungeons are there in Japan?


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    Around 40, wasn''t it?


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s barely any progress, lol.


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, it''s wild that two dungeons were cleared back-to-back. I think there are only about 30 cleared dungeons worldwide, right?


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    This is crazy.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾27


    Could this be Japan''s golden age?


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾27


    Nah, it''s just the top-tier explorers carrying everything. The rest aren''t that great.


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, I hear our government isn''t even properly funding mid-tier explorers.


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾29


    They really should invest more.


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    This is such a typical problem in Japan.


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    Do explorers often move abroad for better opportunities?


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    Probably not as much as you''d think. With over 30 dungeons on a small island, the economy here isn''t that bad, even if magic stone prices are a bit lower.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    Even if they wanted to work abroad, the conditions differ between dungeons, so it''s not that simple.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    Since Kisaragi cleared Nagoya, I hope he starts clearing other dungeons too¡ªfor humanity''s sake.


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Please stop placing the future of humanity on the shoulders of an 18-year-old.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾37


    He''s EX-rank, though. In this field, age is just a number.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m thinking about diving into Nagoya Dungeon myself.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾38


    What''s the point? You can barely make it past the 10th floor, and it''s not even worth it with so few monsters around.


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾39


    That''s a hilariously awful dungeon when you put it like that, lol.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Seriously, no one even considered trying to clear Nagoya Dungeon. This is a quiet but impressive achievement.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    "Quiet"? This is insanely impressive. If this isn''t flashy, nothing is.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s not forget¡ªthis dungeon was deemed impossible for humanity to clear. And now one guy did it solo. That''s the stuff of legends.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    Maybe not a hero, but Kisaragi will go down in history as a great figure.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    Finally, now that Nagoya Dungeon is cleared, people will stop making fun of us locals.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾45


    Wait, you live near Nagoya Dungeon? Lol, the property values must be rock-bottom.


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾45


    Still, since only Kisaragi can clear it, the area''s value won''t improve much, lol.


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s just brutal, lol.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, the land around Nagoya Dungeon is cheap. No one wants to be near an uncleared dungeon. Imagine if monsters started spilling out one day¡ªwhat would they do?


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    Monsters spilling out of a dungeon? Nah, that won''t happen.


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾50


    Oh, sure (looks away).


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    They said the same thing during the early days of dungeon exploration... and look what happened.


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    Kamakura... (whispered)


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    Let''s not bring up the Kamakura Dungeon Incident¡ªit''s Japan''s most shameful moment.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾54


    Why are you explaining it in detail, though?


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    lol


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s been 50 years since then¡­ maybe we can move on by now.


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    Nope. It''s still relevant¡ªthey only finished wiping out the escaped monsters about 10 years ago.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    I heard property values around dungeons tanked after that. What''s the situation now?


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    It depends on the dungeon. Since Nagoya Dungeon was cleared, you''d think the value would go up, but¡­ nope. Not yet.


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    It makes sense. It''s still a dungeon that only Kisaragi can handle.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    Shouldn''t we just put Kisaragi in the Guinness Book of World Records for clearing the most dungeons?


    63: Anonymous Explorer


    Let him clear more first before doing that.


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    Just because it''s cleared doesn''t mean anything will change right away. People are making way too big a deal about this. Does Kisaragi Tsukasa really deserve this much hype?


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾64


    If it''s being discussed on an anti-fan thread, that already says a lot, doesn''t it?


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾64


    What part of his performance makes you think he''s weak?


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    Apparently, someone from the anti-thread went on social media to argue that Nagoya Dungeon wasn''t a big deal¡­ and they got absolutely roasted. Deleted their account, too.


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾67


    Why do anti-fans always think going public will end well? They should''ve just stayed in their little echo chamber.


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾68


    It''s classic behavior. They get hyped by people agreeing with them in the anti-thread and think, "Everyone must feel the same way!" Then they post it publicly and get dunked on.


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    Why are you guys so mean, though?


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    Because it''s the truth.


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    Look, if they just stayed in their anti-thread, no one would care. But the moment they go public, it''s over.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    Talking down on Nagoya Dungeon''s clear would piss off Aichi locals, for sure.


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾64


    Maybe learn more about dungeons before posting next time. Otherwise, you''ll end up like that anti-fan who got roasted on social media.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    At the end of the day, less than 40 dungeons have ever been fully cleared worldwide. That should tell you everything.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    Just reaching the final floor is an incredible feat. If you understand that, you''d never say Kisaragi''s achievement isn''t impressive.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    You''d think people would know by now. The media covers dungeons all the time, and there are tons of YouTube videos explaining this stuff.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    Even elementary school kids know about this stuff nowadays.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, with all the explainer videos and highlights out there, it makes sense that kids are so well-informed. But how are NEETs still so clueless?


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    NEETs are too busy arguing online to learn anything useful.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾79


    Honestly, if they were the type to work hard and learn, they wouldn''t be NEETs in the first place.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    I watched the archive of the stream from £¾£¾1, and the first 20 floors were super beautiful and peaceful¡­ but from the 40th floor onward, it just got terrifying. Couldn''t keep watching.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾82


    I saw some folks with thalassophobia freaking out on social media.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Yeah, that dungeon must''ve been a nightmare for anyone with thalassophobia. Even the deeper layers of the Shibuya Dungeon had oceans, though.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    You have to be pretty tough to handle these kinds of explorations, huh?


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    So¡­ does that mean all explorers are basically the kings of online arguments too?


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾86


    Well, online arguments are won by not giving in. If your mental strength is top-tier, you''ll dominate arguments too.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    A dungeon deemed impossible for humans to clear. And Kisaragi cleared it.


    But wait¡­ has anyone said he''s actually human?


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    The logic goes:


    Nagoya Dungeon is impossible for humans.Kisaragi cleared it.Therefore, Kisaragi isn''t human.


    Q.E.D.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾89


    That''s the dumbest logic I''ve ever heard.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s more like three-layered nonsense than proper logic, tbh.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    But Kisaragi not being human feels kinda accurate.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    Sorry, but the "Kisaragi is not human" theory was already debunked. That''s an old one.


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, it got debunked?


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    The reasoning was weak, though. They said, "He eats food on stream, so he must be human." That''s hardly convincing.


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    lol No way that counts as proof.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    Why are we even seriously debating whether Kisaragi is human?


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    Because clearing Nagoya Dungeon makes no sense otherwise. Even I can''t wrap my head around it.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾98


    I get that it''s hard to believe, but the fact is that he cleared it. Time to accept reality.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi Tsukasa¡ªa glitch in the matrix created by the gods.


    How many more dungeons will fall to him next?

 Chapter 110 - 110: A New Mission Awaits

    When I returned to the surface, there was chaos everywhere. Well, it makes sense¡ªafter all, I entered a dungeon that no one had ever set foot in and cleared it all the way to the final floor¡­ People freaking out is kind of understandable. Still, even though a part of the internet and the involved organizations are in a frenzy, society at large barely seems to care. That''s kind of sad.


    Magic stones are essential for modern life, which means dungeons are indispensable, right? But for the general public, dungeons feel like something far removed from their daily lives, so they just don''t care. It sounds arrogant when you put it that way, but I guess it''s like how nobody thinks about the people maintaining infrastructure¡ªthey just use electricity without a second thought.


    When I showed up at the entrance to the Nagoya Dungeon, the staff from the Explorers'' Guild were scrambling. I guess working at a dungeon that usually gets no visitors doesn''t prepare you for sudden excitement.


    I was thinking how laid-back they were compared to the people at the Shibuya Dungeon¡­ but now that I think about it, they were also freaking out when I reached the deeper layers over there, so maybe it''s just the same everywhere.


    "So, Kisaragi-kun, what are you going to do now that you''ve casually cleared the Nagoya Dungeon?"


    "Nothing in particular..."


    Waiting for me back in Tokyo was a corporate slave holding an energy drink and giving me a tired smile¡ªAizawa-san. Apparently, the guild needed to get some details about the Nagoya Dungeon, so he came to see me. Though honestly, I''ve already told them everything there was to say during that phone call in the dungeon.


    "It''s not like I wanted to question you about it personally. That''s just the official reason. Truthfully, I wanted to ask what your plans are after you graduate from high school. I heard you plan to start a company?" S§×ar?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Yeah, but nothing will really change. I''ll keep working as an EX-rank explorer and as a dungeon streamer. Though, mentoring younger explorers like you do could be nice too."


    "Is that so? Well, your two apprentices seem to be doing quite well."


    While I''ve been busy having fun and casually clearing dungeons, Asakawa and Miyamoto have been growing tremendously as explorers. To be fair, I always thought they were geniuses¡ªthey just didn''t know how to use their talents.


    Aizawa is focused on guiding the top-tier explorers, while my grandmother handles beginner-level training (I think?). Both of them care about the future of Japanese explorers, considering how few of us there are. I guess it''s important for me to think about the same things now that I''m an EX-rank explorer, too¡­ though I''ll leave Kamishiro-san to his own devices.


    "You''re young, so you should do whatever you want."


    "Aizawa-san, you''re only 32, right?"


    "Thirty-two is already old¡ªespecially in a field like dungeon exploration, where most people are younger."


    You say that, but the top explorer in this field is over 60.


    As far as "freedom" goes, I think I''m already pretty free. If I take any more liberties, Aizawa-san''s dark circles are going to get worse from worrying about me.


    On my way home, I was riding the train, leaning against the doors while playing on my phone. Suddenly, through the flow of people, a woman was pushed right in front of me.


    "Ugh¡­ City trains are the worst."


    "...Miyamoto-san?"


    "Huh?"


    I had a feeling something was off, and when I looked, I saw a familiar face. It was a bit surprising to run into her here. Miyamoto looked startled when I called her name, glancing around to see who was speaking to her. Oh, right¡ªsince I''m wearing a hat and glasses, she probably didn''t recognize me at first.


    "K-Kisaragi¡­-san?"


    "It''s been a while since we last met in person."


    "Y-Yeah¡­ For a second, I thought someone from my old job had found me."


    Oh, right. She used to work at a black company, didn''t she? If you''re riding the train late at night and someone suddenly calls out to you, it''s natural to assume it''s someone from your old job.


    "Weren''t you supposed to be in Nagoya?"


    "I just took the bullet train home. I only cleared the dungeon, after all."


    "You say that so casually¡­ but the scale of what you did is kind of mind-blowing."


    Is it? I guess it might be. I honestly have no clue what a "normal" explorer''s workload is like.


    "What about you, Miyamoto-san?"


    "I''ve been working on the weapon issue I mentioned before."


    "Ah, I see."


    It seems like she''s still undecided about her weapon. It makes sense to be cautious¡ªafter all, she fights in a way that heavily relies on her weapons. Unlike me, who can just make do with whatever, she has to be extra careful about her gear.


    "I''m glad to see you doing well as a streamer too. It''s reassuring, since I''m sort of your mentor."


    "M-Mentor¡­ That''s right. You''ve been a lifesaver for me."


    "L-Lifesaver?"


    Isn''t that a bit much?


    From her perspective, I guess I did help her when she felt stuck. But honestly, the fact that she was struggling as an explorer in the first place was because the government didn''t provide proper foundational support. I just filled in those gaps.


    "We should collaborate again sometime. I''d like you to see how much I''ve grown."


    "S-Sure."


    It''s stuff like this¡ªcollaborating with women all the time¡ªthat makes people think I''m some kind of playboy. But with her looking at me like that, it''s hard to say no. Maybe I should try reaching out to a male streamer next time¡­ though I might have to make the first move myself.


    Ignoring public opinion altogether would be the easiest route, but I also think it''s important to listen to feedback. Whether I act on it or ignore it is up to me, though.


    After chatting with Miyamoto on the train, I finally made it home. Exploring underwater for so long was exhausting. Summoning four Twelve Heavenly Generals at once probably didn''t help either.


    I''ll have a lot to do starting tomorrow, but for now, I''ll keep up with my streaming and work on my business plans little by little.


    Besides, I''ve got one more person I''d like to recruit for my team.

 Chapter 111 - 111: A New Company Takes Shape

    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun... It''s cold, huh?"


    "...Well, it is snowing."


    Asakawa-san greeted me while fiddling with her scarf, looking a bit cold. Well, it makes sense¡ªit''s snowing, after all.


    It''s early February, and starting today, school is on flexible attendance. I''ll drop by the school today to sort out some things, but I don''t plan to come back until graduation. I haven''t been able to attend school properly ever since I became an EX-rank explorer in my first year, but I do have some attachment to it.


    After all, it''s where I met people important to me, like Asakawa-san, my first real friend.


    "So, I heard you already started the company. Is that true?"


    "Well... It''s only a formality for now."


    I''ve handled most of the paperwork, so all that''s left is for me to graduate and start hiring people. One of the reasons I came to see Asakawa at school today was to talk about that.


    We walked to the classroom together, but as expected, there weren''t many people inside. It''s the first day of flexible attendance, so this is probably as crowded as it gets. Even so, more than half the students weren''t there¡ªsome are busy with exams, while others got accepted through early admission and don''t need to attend anymore.


    "So, interviews are next?"


    "Yeah, especially since I need to find streamers to join the company."


    So far, I''ve got three people lined up to join. The first is, of course, me. The second is Asakawa Nanami¡ªbetter known as Asagao¡ªwho''s standing right in front of me. And the third is... Miyamoto Kana, also known as Kanakon.


    "By the way, how did Kanakon-san agree to join?"


    "Well, she used to be an office worker, and when I told her that the job wouldn''t be much different from what she''s doing now, she just said okay."


    "I see... But we''ll need to sort out some of the finer details."


    "Yeah... Like dealing with income from donations and all that."


    Since we''re setting this up as a proper company, we''ll need to collect a portion of the revenue our streamers generate. Up until now, I''ve never enabled donation functions because I wasn''t interested in the money, but now that we''re going professional, I''ll have to set it up. We''re also planning to hire office staff, so we''ll need a stable income stream.


    "Considering corporate taxes and everything, it might be a good idea to hire an accountant. I guess I could just cover the expenses out of my own pocket, but..."


    "Is that really a good idea?"


    "You''re right... I guess I was thinking about it too much like a game."


    I recently came into some money, so I''ve been a bit careless with it. You see, a few months ago, I found a crystal deep inside the Nagoya Dungeon that can absorb magic. It turned out to be so complex that researchers have been stuck on it ever since.


    In fact, it was so puzzling that Japanese researchers gave up on it and passed it along to international organizations. So now, researchers worldwide are frantically studying it.


    Here''s the kicker, though: I still technically own that crystal. I don''t need it back, but since I''m only loaning it to them, I receive compensation over time. Which means... Yeah, I''m earning passive income without doing anything. Wonder when that research will wrap up.


    "So, how many people do you plan to hire?"


    "For streamers? Ideally, I''d like to grow it into a large company with around 50 people someday. But at the start, I think we''ll aim for five or six. Plus, I''d like to hire non-dungeon-related streamers too."


    For example, virtual streamers.


    Virtual streamers have become incredibly popular recently, so if we can secure some talent, it''ll generate good revenue. That said, since I want the focus to remain on dungeon streaming, I don''t plan to hire too many.


    "We could try scouting promising talents, but it might be better to advertise and hold open interviews. That way, we can attract people who are just starting out too."


    "Yeah... If we only scout people, we''d end up limited to those already doing dungeon streams."


    "Exactly. I''ll announce the recruitment on my channel to attract applicants."


    This is where having a large subscriber base really comes in handy. I doubt we''ll end up with zero applicants.


    "So, here''s the plan: We''ll conduct a document screening at the end of February, and the interviews will take place in early March. We''re recruiting dungeon streamers¡ªand two or three virtual streamers as well."


    : You''re doing virtual streams too?


    : Maybe focus on dungeon streams first?


    : Are you seriously branching out into virtual streaming?


    : I guess dungeon streaming alone isn''t enough, huh.


    "We''ll give streamers the freedom to stream from anywhere, so they don''t need to live near Tokyo. Though it''d be nice if they were based in Japan."


    We can always cover travel expenses if needed, so I''ll hire talented people even if they live in Okinawa or Hokkaido.


    : For real? I''ll apply if you do remote interviews.


    : Can''t you just do remote interviews?


    : Will travel expenses be covered?


    : I might apply for this.


    : Why not give it a shot?


    : Honestly, as long as Kisaragi-kun keeps streaming, I''m happy.


    "Remote interviews, huh... Yeah, that sounds good."


    There''s no reason interviews can''t be fully remote. I''m planning to rent office space near Shibuya Station since it''s close to the Shibuya Dungeon, but we probably won''t need streamers to gather in person that often.


    "Alright, we''re switching to fully remote interviews. For the document screening, just send your resume, the URL to your streaming channel if you have one, and a copy of your explorer license online. I figure mailing documents would be a hassle, so we''ll handle everything digitally."


    : Lol


    : That''s smart.


    : I like this approach.


    : Yeah, writing stuff by hand is such a pain.


    : Paper is better for privacy, though.


    : You can always burn paper, after all.


    I''ll also post job listings for office staff while I''m at it. As for the accountant, I''ll ask the one I usually rely on to introduce me to someone freelance.


    "Anyway, the company will officially launch in April, so if you''re interested in dungeon streaming, apply! Oh, and the current members are me, Asagao-san, and Kanakon-san." Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Seriously? I''m applying.


    : Wait, I get to meet Kanakon in real life? I''m applying for sure.


    : Here come the creeps.


    : So many people about to get rejected in the document screening.


    : Sending thoughts and prayers.


    : Stop it, or I''ll kill you.


    : Get a job, dude.


    And just like that, the journey toward building a new company begins.

 Chapter 112 - 112: Early Bird Interview

    "So, why did you come here for just a simple interview?"


    "Well, I wanted to see the people who might become my coworkers, right?"


    It''s the end of February, and while my classmates were still stressed out with their entrance exams, most of them had calmed down after the early admissions ended and were now preparing for graduation with a relaxed attitude. Of course, a few looked like they''d already lost hope, probably because things didn''t go as planned for them.


    While my peers were busy with their studies, I was here in Shibuya, organizing the office space I had leased near the station. I had to move in a bunch of furniture and shelves, as well as some office equipment to make sure the place was functional. Oddly enough, Asakawa-san was helping me out with it all, even though she didn''t have to.


    She always said she wanted to see the business take off and was always willing to lend a hand.


    After all, this was a big step for me¡ªthis office would be the base for the new company I''d just started. The interviews today would be for dungeon streamers and staff, and I had a lot riding on this. Honestly, I was a little nervous, but I trusted my gut when it came to reading people. Besides, I wasn''t interested in grilling the candidates with boring, formal questions.


    I just needed a feel for whether they''d fit in or not.


    At the scheduled time, I sat down in front of the computer, turned on the camera, and connected to the first candidate. The screen blinked to life, revealing a young man in his late twenties, dressed in a suit and looking extremely nervous. I had specifically mentioned in the email that casual attire was fine, but I guess wearing a suit for interviews is ingrained in Japanese culture.


    "Hello, this is Tsukasa Kisaragi."


    "H-hello... the real deal!"


    "Yep, it''s really me."


    I mean, if a fake showed up, that''d be a different kind of interview, wouldn''t it? I chuckled to myself.


    "Can you introduce yourself briefly? I''ve got your resume here, so no need for the details."


    "Ah, yes! My name is R-Rintaro Dobayashi!"


    "...Panda?"


    "P-Panda?! H-how did you know that...?"


    I glanced down at his resume again. Rintaro Dobayashi was a 29-year-old dungeon explorer with a D-rank, which was pretty decent. His voice, though, sounded strangely familiar. I took a wild guess¡ªbased on the nickname I remembered hearing in dungeon streaming circles¡ªand, lo and behold, I was right.


    "So, Panda means you''re the streamer Dodo Rinrin, right? I didn''t expect an active dungeon streamer for the first interview!"


    "Wait, I''m the first one!?"


    "Yep. Honestly, I had a lot of applicants, so I cut a bunch of people based on their documents. I didn''t want to waste time interviewing every single one."


    To be honest, the sheer number of applications I received caught me off guard. I hadn''t expected so many people to be interested in joining a small startup like mine. But by reviewing resumes and dungeon explorer licenses, I could get a rough idea of each candidate. If I ended up missing out on a great talent, well, that''d just be my responsibility.


    Dodo Rinrin, also known as Panda, had been a dungeon streamer for a while now. He''d always joked on his streams about wanting to join a company, but I didn''t think he''d actually apply. His real name was Rintaro Dobayashi, but viewers started calling him Panda because his streamer name, Dodo Rinrin, apparently sounded cute and cuddly like a panda.


    The nickname had stuck, and now it seemed like part of his brand.


    "Shall we continue with the interview?"


    "Y-yes, please!"


    "Are you okay with being called Panda by your viewers?"


    "W-well, if it makes it easier for them, I guess it''s fine..."


    "Good to know. You''re hired."


    "Wait, isn''t that a bit too fast?"


    "Whoa!? Asagao-san is here too...?" Panda exclaimed, noticing Asakawa in the background for the first time.


    I might seem hasty, but when it comes to someone with Panda''s popularity and talent, there''s no reason to delay things. His personality, willingness to adapt, and his established audience made him a perfect fit. Plus, he''d always been clear about wanting to join a company, so why not give him that opportunity?


    "Dobayashi-san, I''d like you to continue working as Dodo Rinrin. Your current audience knows you as Panda, and you''ve always expressed a desire to go corporate, so there won''t be any disconnect with your viewers."


    "W-wow, you''re really informed!"


    "Well, I''ve done my homework on promising dungeon streamers."


    Dungeon streaming is a competitive field. Many of the popular streamers focus on exploring the middle levels of dungeons, playing it relatively safe to build up their audience. But Panda was different. He liked to explore various dungeons, and he wasn''t afraid to push the boundaries a bit. That, combined with his potential as a dungeon explorer, made him a strong candidate.


    "Alright, we''ll wrap things up here. I''ll send you the paperwork. Do you prefer physical copies or digital?"


    "P-physical, please..."


    "Got it."


    "Is it really okay for this to be so casual?" Panda asked, sounding unsure.


    "For small offices like ours, it''s usually like this. I don''t see the need to drag things out longer than necessary."


    "So this is what the new generation''s like... you guys are too bright for an old man like me."


    Panda was a genuinely fun person. He had a vibe that was different from anyone else I''d met so far, but I could see similarities to people like Aizawa-san, who I respected a lot.


    After wrapping up the call, I felt good. Landing someone like Panda right off the bat was a big win, and it gave me a little confidence boost for the rest of the interviews.


    "Is this how you normally handle interviews?" Asakawa asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "Why not? I trust my instincts. Besides, I don''t think my judgment is that bad."


    "Your judgment isn''t bad, but sometimes your perspective goes in unexpected directions."


    "My thinking?" S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "No, your viewpoint."


    Maybe she was right. But I didn''t see it as a flaw, so I shrugged it off.


    "Alright, let''s get to the next interview. Looks like the others are waiting."


    "Do you always tell people immediately if they''re hired?"


    "No, I only did that with Panda because he''s already established and I''m confident he''ll be a great fit. For the other candidates, I''ll send them an email later with the results."


    With Panda on board, I now had four confirmed streamers. Ideally, I''d like to recruit another two or three people, preferably beginners who hadn''t started exploring dungeons yet. While experienced streamers have their advantages, there''s also value in nurturing new talent. It would be great if people started seeing our company as a place where they could grow into skilled explorers.


    "By the way, what''s with the company name?" Asakawa asked suddenly.


    "What about it?"


    "early bird? What''s that supposed to mean?"


    "It means ''early riser.'' You know, like the saying: ''The early bird gets the worm.'' It''s a phrase I like."


    It was a simple name, but I figured something easy to remember would help. Besides, I genuinely believed in the benefits of waking up early and getting a head start on things. Maybe I''d even make it the company''s motto¡ª"The early bird gets the worm."


    It wasn''t just a name; it was an approach to life and business.


    By the end of the day, we had gone through multiple interviews. Each one had its own unique energy, but none quite like Panda''s. I felt good about where things were heading, and despite the challenges that lay ahead, I knew we were building something special.


    It wasn''t just about me anymore¡ªthis company would soon be a place where dungeon explorers could thrive and share their adventures with the world.


    With that thought, I closed my laptop and glanced around the half-furnished office. There was still a lot to do, but I felt a sense of accomplishment. This was the start of something big, and I was ready for it.

 Chapter 113 - 113: Early Bird Takes Flight

    "Hello, this is Tsukasa Kisaragi. Today, I''ll just be chatting about various things from our new office location."


    : Good morning


    : I got rejected in the document screening (angry)


    : I got rejected too


    : I didn''t even have an explorer license


    : Congrats on starting your company, Kisaragi-kun


    : I thought about applying for the office position, but it seemed like a hassle, so I gave up


    "To those saying they got rejected, I offer my prayers. To be honest, I rejected over 90% of applicants based on their documents alone, so I didn''t even interview most of them."


    : Seriously?


    : No wonder everyone''s talking about being rejected


    : So you actually did interviews?


    : Can you really tell just from documents?


    : Sounds like you had set criteria for selection


    : Well, it''s your company, so you can run it however you want, right? S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Yep... I was looking at their magic levels and backgrounds, and there just weren''t that many who cleared the cut-off point I set. I did do remote interviews for a few who made it past, but some got rejected even there.


    "In the end, only three people passed the interview and got hired. The number of available slots was limited to begin with."


    : Only three!?


    : That''s so few


    : You mean for dungeon streamers, right?


    : Yeah, they''re still recruiting for office staff, aren''t they?


    : I kinda wanted to be a dungeon streamer too


    : Becoming one is easy. Just get your explorer license, buy a camera, and start streaming in a dungeon


    : True


    : Well, becoming one is easy, but...


    Looking at the flood of resumes we received, I realized that while many people had an explorer license, a lot of them had never actually gone into a dungeon. We sent out a questionnaire to the applicants, and about 80% of them responded that they got the license just to have it on their resume but had no actual dungeon experience.


    That explains the huge number of G-rank explorers. They''re not even sticking to the upper floors¡ªthey''ve never even set foot inside a dungeon.


    "I''ll introduce the people who passed next month... or, actually, in two weeks."


    : Oh, nice


    : Looking forward to it


    : So Kisaragi-kun''s finally a corporate-affiliated streamer...


    : More like, he''s an entrepreneur streamer, right?


    : Lol


    : It''s funny because he literally started his own company


    : Yeah, that cracked me up too


    "As for virtual streamers, we haven''t started recruiting yet, but we''re planning to do so around June... so if anyone''s interested, polish your skills until then."


    : What skills?


    : Streaming skills, duh


    : Uh, right...


    : Polish your skills¡ªor your voice, I guess


    : Can you even polish your voice?


    "Anyway, the real dilemma I''m facing is figuring out how to drag the new streamers into the depths of hell."


    : Huh?


    : Suddenly glad I didn''t make it (changed stance)


    : Why is it a given that you''ll be dragging them around?


    : So that''s the kind of stream this is...


    : RIP to those who passed


    Once someone becomes a member of the company, it''s like they''re under my wing. That means it''s my responsibility to make sure they can survive as explorers. And the best way to get stronger is to take them through hell. At least, that''s how my grandma raised me. I''m not saying they need to reach the deepest layers, but I''d like them to at least be able to handle the lower layers consistently.


    It might sound extreme, but being able to handle the lower layers is essential if they want to stand out and survive in the current streaming landscape. Just streaming from the mid-layers isn''t going to cut it anymore. I''ve heard that a lot of people are trying out the mid-layers after watching my streams, but there are still only a few who can manage the lower layers.


    If you want to build a stable, popular career as a dungeon streamer, being able to handle the lower layers is a must.


    "I need to see them face-to-face, observe how they handle themselves in a dungeon, and give advice... but we''ll take it slow. As for ''Early Bird,'' I plan to turn everyone into lower-layer explorers, so if you''re planning to apply for the second round of recruitment, be ready."


    : Is it that easy to become a lower-layer explorer?


    : Well... with Kisaragi-kun and Asagao-chan as examples, yeah


    : But Kanacon-chan can''t go to the lower layers yet, right?


    : Kanacon is still in the mid-layers, but given her talent, she''ll probably be ready for the lower layers soon


    : Hopefully, she won''t face the same power issues as Asagao-chan


    "Regarding Kanacon-san''s power, I''ve already figured out how to handle that, so I expect she''ll be able to start exploring the lower layers soon."


    Miyamoto-san, who struggles to turn her magic into usable forms like spells, has been putting all her magic into her weapon and physical abilities. She''s currently looking for a new weapon. After asking me for advice a few months ago, she''s been doing a lot of research but hasn''t decided on anything yet.


    When she joined ''Early Bird,'' I told her we''d provide a weapon for her, but that means I need to gather some materials. I''ll probably do that on one of my streams soon, once things settle down.


    "As for Asagao-san, she''s been making her own spears from materials, but she hardly ever fights with them anymore... her style is starting to resemble Kamishiro-san''s."


    : Totally get that


    : She used to use spears to make up for her lack of magic power, but now that her magic has improved, she doesn''t need them as much


    : She''s becoming a magic gorilla


    : At this point, does she even need the spear?


    Yeah... The spear is still great as a secondary weapon, but with Asagao-san''s unique vision that lets her see magic, her control of magic flow is so good that she almost doesn''t need it anymore.


    "Anyway, we''ll be supporting the streamers who join us, so I want them to dive into dungeons and push themselves. We''ll also have donation functions enabled for their streams, so if you like what you see, feel free to donate to them."


    : What about you?


    : Kisaragi-kun''s donation function when?


    : Let us throw money at you


    : I want to support Kisaragi-kun, so let us donate


    : So many people want to throw money at him lol


    : The guy''s already rich; throwing money at him won''t be as fun


    : Doesn''t matter, I still want to throw money at him


    "I was thinking of keeping donations off for my own streams... but do you think I should enable it? I do plan to have a paid subscription model with members-only content, but I''m not planning on doing many exclusive streams."


    : Just do it


    : Doesn''t matter, just set it up


    : No need for exclusive streams, it''s fine


    : You can use all the donation money for the company, so just set it up


    : Implement donations to fund the office


    : With your viewer count, you''ll easily raise money if you set it up


    Hmm... I thought people would hate it if I enabled donations, but I guess not? Alright, maybe I''ll enable it starting in April. It would make things feel more official for the company''s streamers anyway.

 Chapter 114 - 114: A New Dawn for Early Bird

    "Graduation ceremony... Once this is over, I won''t be a high school student anymore. Many of my classmates seem to be feeling the weight of it, with some saying tearful goodbyes and others crying out of sadness.


    Recently, due to global warming, there have been times when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom before the graduation ceremony, or conversely, the ceremony happens before the blossoms bloom. This year, though, the flowers have bloomed perfectly in time for graduation season."


    "Ah, there you are."


    "Hm?"


    While I was standing by the school gate, staring blankly at the cherry blossoms, Asakawa-san and her friend, Nonohara-san, came over. The only people I really got close to during high school were Asakawa-san and Nonohara-san.


    "I''m gonna miss graduation so much... Nanami and Kisaragi-kun aren''t even going to university."


    "Is it really that bad?"


    "To be honest, graduation hasn''t really hit me that hard."


    "But you had so much fun during the school trip!"


    Well... true. It was the first time I ever enjoyed a school trip. It served as a nice break from studying for exams, and everyone seemed to have fun. I guess it''s a good thing that our school trip happened in our third year. Lately, more schools have been doing it in the second year instead.


    "I''ll definitely watch all your streams... I''ll send a message after every one with my thoughts."


    "You don''t have to go that far..."


    "Why not just let Nonohara-san do as she likes?"


    It seems like a lot of people are choosing to go to university these days. Many even take out student loans to afford it because it''s tough to get a job without a degree in today''s world. There are so many companies that only hire fresh graduates now.


    "Even after we graduate, we''ll definitely meet again, right?! Even if you and Nanami become super famous!"


    "Hmm... I think Kisaragi-kun is already famous."


    "Is that the point?"


    People who say, "Let''s definitely meet again someday!" usually never do. Introverts remember those promises and get excited about them, but in reality, no one else remembers. Well, a lot happened, but... with this, my high school life has come to an end. I didn''t really do anything "youthful" until my third year, but at least I met Asakawa-san and became friends. That was good...


    though we''ll be working together starting in April.


    A few weeks after graduation, April came quickly. There''s a saying that humans experience half of their life''s perceived time by the age of 19, but I guess you can''t truly understand that until you''re over 19. At least for me, the time from the graduation ceremony to this first week of April passed incredibly fast.


    "Well... good morning."


    "Good morning!"


    "Uh, good morning?"


    We were in the completed office, greeting the employees who would be working with us. In the end, the employees I quickly hired for ''early bird'' totaled 12 people: 5 streamers, 2 young tax accountants who were introduced to me, and 5 office workers who would also serve as managers. As the CEO, I''m not counted among them.


    "Well... I''ll just say this upfront, I''m hoping we can take things pretty easy for now. We''ll start thinking more seriously when the company grows, but for now, we''re still pretty small."


    To grow the company, the first thing we need to do is boost the popularity of the streamers we have. That said, we already have quite an impressive lineup: Asakawa-san, who has hundreds of thousands of subscribers; Miyamoto-san, who is approaching 100,000; and Douba Rin, who has tens of thousands of followers.


    "Do we need to do introductions?"


    "That can wait, don''t you think? I doubt anyone here applied without knowing who you are, Tsukasa-kun."


    Everyone nodded in agreement at Asakawa''s words. Hmm... it''s true, I''ve already met all of these people in person or interviewed them, so I know all their faces and names as well as their profiles. I guess it''s fine to let the employees introduce themselves to each other on their own, without forcing it. As an introvert, the idea of mandatory introductions sounds pretty rough to me.


    "Alright, streamers, let''s get started with a quick introduction stream now. Thanks!"


    "Got it!"


    We already announced it on social media, so I expect a lot of viewers, even though it''s a weekday afternoon.


    By the way, the streamers will be streaming as often as possible, while the office workers get weekends off. If anything goes wrong, I''ll handle it.


    Renting office space near Shibuya Station isn''t cheap, but cutting corners there would be a mistake, so I made sure to rent two floors. One is for the office staff and tax accountants to work, and the other is a larger space that we can use for various streams.


    We''ll be working with two full floors¡ªone for streaming and one for everything else.


    "Alright, hello... The company equipment is still being set up, so I''m greeting you from my personal camera."


    : Hello?


    : Is this the streamer intro?


    : Finally, moving into the startup phase


    : It''s not corporate; it''s a startup phase, right?


    : You started your own company, so yeah, it''s a startup


    : I''ve been waiting for this!


    "The first introduction is from Kisaragi Tsukasa of [Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel]... That''s me."


    : A model CEO, leading by example


    : Also happens to be Japan''s strongest


    : We know who you are


    : Isn''t this already your channel, Kisaragi Tsukasa Channel?


    : Aren''t you going to make a dedicated ''early bird'' channel?


    "Do we need that? I think everyone can just keep using their own channels, don''t you?"


    : Of course you need it


    : So laid back


    : That''s the Kisaragi we know


    : Classic Kisaragi move


    Can you stop making me sound like I have no plan?


    "Alright, next up."


    "Me! I''m Asagao!"


    : Asagao-chan! ^^


    : Still the healing presence, as always


    : Though she''s starting to seem more and more non-human Sear?h the nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Curse you, Kisaragi, for turning the healing presence into a monster


    : So much resentment, lol


    "I have nothing to do with that. Asagao is pursuing power on her own; I am not responsible. I declare myself innocent."


    Explorers are people who seek power, after all.


    "I''m... Kanacon. I''ve taken off the mask."


    : Did we just see her face!?


    : Kanacon is way more beautiful than I imagined


    : She''s finally showing her face


    : No mask?


    : Is she showing her face now because she''s a corporate streamer?


    : She''s unbelievably gorgeous


    : I didn''t expect her to be this beautiful¡ªI''m speechless


    : I think I might switch from being an Asagao fan to a Kanacon fan


    "Uh, thank you?"


    "For the person who said they''re switching, I''ve memorized your name, okay?"


    : Yikes


    : You better apologize


    : You''re about to get obliterated


    So far, these are people I''ve collaborated with before, so the audience is familiar with them. From here on, the new members will be introduced. I hope the viewers welcome them warmly, even if it''s a bit rough around the edges. Honestly, I trust the audience enough not to be too worried about it.

 Chapter 115 - 115: Meet the New Dungeon Streaming Crew

    "Me, Asakawa-san, and Miyamoto-san... the viewers were used to seeing the three of us, so there wasn''t much of a reaction. Well, there was quite a big reaction when Miyamoto-san showed her face for the first time, though."


    : The real show starts now


    : These are the top 1% of applicants


    : The warriors who made it past the document screening and weren''t eliminated in the interviews


    : Insane odds, lol


    : Can''t be helped


    "Hello to everyone who''s seeing me for the first time! And to those who always watch me, thank you! It''s Doudou Rinrin here!"


    : Huh?


    : Isn''t that Panda?!


    : Oh, it''s just Panda


    : Hey Panda, it''s time to send you back to China


    : Still in Japan, huh? We told you already, the rental fees are too high¡ªsend the Panda back!


    "Wait, really?! I was told by Kisaragi-san that if I greeted everyone with high energy, it would get everyone hyped!"


    Of course, that was a lie. I had already checked out how Douba Rin (aka Panda) was treated during his streams, so I figured that if he started with a high-energy greeting, those who knew him from my audience would react exactly like this. I also knew that getting this kind of response would allow him to show off his strengths. Simply put, he''s the type of person who gets teased a lot.


    : Totally getting treated like a Panda, lol


    : Congrats on joining the company


    : So that''s why you were so energetic recently


    : Now you''re a company Panda


    : Not a corporate streamer, but a corporate Panda


    : Well, you are a Panda


    "I''m not a Panda! I''m a dungeon streamer, not a Panda! ''Panda'' is just a nickname!"


    : But you''re still a Panda


    : A Panda is still a Panda


    : First time seeing him, but this guy''s hilarious


    : Panda, you''re the best comedian ever


    : He''s basically a comedian, lol


    : Wait, isn''t he a dungeon streamer?


    : He''s a trained Panda, right? sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Kisaragi-san?!"


    "It''s going as planned."


    : Lmao


    : Classic us


    : We knew it


    : You got tricked, man


    It looks like the viewers caught on quickly. They realized right away that I''d deliberately told him to greet them that way. It irks me a bit to be lumped in with the audience like that, but I''ll admit that we have similar sensibilities.


    "Alright, let''s have Panda step back, and move on to the next introduction."


    "Panda?!?"


    I''m planning to let Douba Rin (Panda) handle the playful banter with the viewers that I can''t do myself. Well, even if it''s supposed to be playful, it often ends up with him getting roasted, but I''ll overlook that for now. Still, I''m confident in his ability to succeed as a dungeon explorer. Just like Miyamoto-san, he''s got the talent.


    "Next up, it''s me!"


    "Okay, go ahead."


    "Hello, I''m Mimika! I dropped out of university and decided to become a streamer with early bird! I just turned 20!"


    "Hmm, you didn''t need to introduce your age."


    "What? Really?"


    : Did we just get a cute but kinda dumb girl?


    : Lol


    : Is that an insult or a compliment?


    : What part of that was a compliment?


    Mimika''s real name is Tennouji Ayase. During her interview, she showed such intense passion that I decided to hire her. Apparently, she had drifted into university without really knowing what she wanted to do and was on the verge of failing out. That''s when she decided to try becoming a dungeon explorer instead of getting a part-time job.


    However, with no one knowledgeable about dungeon exploration at her university, she couldn''t get any proper guidance... until she saw the recruitment announcement in one of my streams and thought, "This is it!"


    "I''m a complete beginner when it comes to dungeons! This is also my first time streaming! I''m totally new, so please take care of me!"


    : Hmm, she''s cute


    : She''s got a real sunshine vibe


    : Is she a gyaru?


    : She sounds a bit dumb, but I think she''s smart underneath


    : She feels a bit like an airhead


    : Which is it?


    I didn''t hire her just because of her passion, though. The university she dropped out of was a prestigious public university. She said she just "drifted into" college admissions, but honestly, I can''t even comprehend that level of intelligence. She''s probably on par with Asakawa, who always ranked first in her grade. I was honestly shocked when I saw her r¨¦sum¨¦.


    Though she speaks casually, during the interview, she showed glimpses of real intelligence, which is why I hired her. I also believe she has enough talent to become a successful dungeon explorer.


    "Alright, last up."


    "Yes! My name is Kishiya Douman, and I''ll be joining early bird. Please take care of me!"


    : Ah, another newbie


    : So, three existing streamers and two new ones, huh?


    : Don''t forget Kisaragi, that makes four streamers


    : A CEO-streamer combo


    : What a cute kid


    : It''s a guy, though


    : That''s what makes it good


    : ¡á!?!?


    The last member is Kishiya Douman. His real name is Ashiya Shunta. At 23, he''s close in age to Miyamoto-san. He originally aimed to be a full-time dungeon explorer, but ended up working part-time jobs to support himself while barely exploring dungeons. Honestly, it seemed like he was so weak that his time would be better spent just working instead of dungeon crawling.


    But his combat style makes solo exploration difficult, so it couldn''t be helped. Ideally, he should always be exploring with at least one or two other people.


    I hired him simply because he''s a good, earnest person with a unique and fascinating fighting style. Above all, his desperation to succeed as a low-level explorer showed real passion. He definitely has the potential to grow into a great dungeon explorer.


    "So, from now on, I, Asagao-san, Kanacon-san, Douba Rin (Panda), Mimika-san, and Kishiya Douman-san will be the initial early bird dungeon streamers."


    : Initial?


    : Are you planning a second wave?


    : He mentioned it before


    : He said those who apply for the second wave better be ready to be dragged through hell


    "Wait! Are we really going to be dragged through hell?"


    "Come on, I told you I''d train you until you''re able to solo the lower floors. Exploring the lower floors is much tougher than you''d imagine."


    "That''s true."


    : Asagao agrees


    : The voice of experience


    : Asagao nodding hard, lol


    : She''s a beast in the lower floors now, but she almost died there a lot in the beginning


    : Are the new recruits going to face the same fate?


    : RIP newbies


    "Yikes!"


    "Bring it on!"


    "I''ll do my best, Kishiya Douman won''t give up!"


    "Why is Panda the only one acting hesitant? You''re a senior, so show some confidence!"


    Honestly, I''m not too worried about Douba Rin (Panda).


    Now that we''ve finished introducing the streamers... my next stream will be as Kisaragi Tsukasa, representing early bird.

 Chapter 116 - 116: Thread 15: Early Bird Takes Flight

    1: Anonymous Explorer


    early bird official website ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    There''s talk about whether or not they''ll create a group streaming account, too.


    Kisaragi Tsukasa ¨C CEO and affiliated streamer, Rank EX


    In one word: a monster


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Asagao ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank C


    Strong enough to dominate the lower levels and could easily become Rank A


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Kanacon ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank D


    A gorilla swinging a two-handed axe, which you wouldn''t expect from her appearance


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    2: Anonymous Explorer


    Doudou Rinrin ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank D


    A shield-wielding, poking, cowardly Panda


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Mimika ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank G


    A complete beginner in streaming, so no information yet


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    Kishiya Douman ¨C Affiliated streamer, Rank G


    Also a complete beginner in streaming, so no information yet


    Channel ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    SNS account ¡ý


    http://©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤©¤


    3: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thanks for starting the thread.


    4: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    Thread OP, good job.


    5: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    You''re quick on the draw with this thread.


    6: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    You''re good at making templates. It''s a bit long, but it''s easy to understand, so it''s fine.


    7: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m surprised Kisaragi took on two complete beginners¡­ He must really be confident in his ability to train people.


    8: Anonymous Explorer


    I was almost in tears when someone picked up Panda... Good for him.


    9: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾8


    Are you his grandma? LOL


    10: Anonymous Explorer


    To be fair, Panda''s been saying for a while that he wanted to become a corporate-affiliated virtual streamer. He even said he''d quit being a dungeon explorer if it meant becoming a corporate-affiliated streamer.


    11: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, now he''s hit the jackpot, becoming a corporate streamer while still being a dungeon explorer.


    Though he''s still a Panda.


    12: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi calling him "Panda" too is just too funny.


    13: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi actually does a lot more research on dungeon streamers than I thought. He even properly evaluated Kanacon, who wasn''t all that famous. And he understood exactly how Panda''s streams worked before teasing him.


    14: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾13


    It''s not just that he''s good at research¡ªhe''s great at focusing on the important parts and cutting out the fluff. He understands what''s necessary and doesn''t waste time.


    15: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m surprised it''s half men and half women. Usually, these kinds of things lean more towards female streamers since they''re more popular.


    16: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a bit unexpected that Kisaragi chose people purely based on their ability as dungeon explorers, leading to a pretty even gender split.


    17: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾15


    I think Kisaragi probably didn''t think about it that much. He just scouted and interviewed the people he thought were good. It''s more like "the fans will follow whoever I pick."


    18: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾17


    That''s the ideal approach, but reality often makes it tricky.


    19: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾1


    £¾£¾2


    So... is this the list of people who''ll be dragged through dungeons?


    20: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾19


    Lol.


    21: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾19


    The main culprit is at the top of the list.


    22: Anonymous Explorer


    "Culprit," LOL.


    23: Anonymous Explorer


    He is definitely on the culprit side.


    24: Anonymous Explorer


    Their first stream is tomorrow. It seems like it''ll just be a low-key beginner stream, so they''re doing it on a weekday afternoon.


    [Image]


    25: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾24


    Yeah, it''s probably a "watch the archives if you want" kind of thing during the training period.


    26: Anonymous Explorer


    Meanwhile, Asagao and Kanacon get to mess around as they like during this training period.


    27: Anonymous Explorer


    I was thinking Kanacon is still just Rank D, but Kisaragi did say that with the right weapon, she could fight in the lower levels right away.


    28: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾27


    Kisaragi mentioned bringing back some material for her weapon that has great mana flow¡­ but will lower-level materials be enough for that?


    29: Anonymous Explorer


    He''ll definitely bring back some materials from the deep levels and be like, "Here, now you can fight in the lower levels too." That guy is ruthless.


    30: Anonymous Explorer


    But honestly, Kanacon''s kind of a battle-hungry gorilla, isn''t she? I always picture her swinging her axe around enthusiastically.


    31: Anonymous Explorer


    Breaking news: Antis, Unicorns, and haters of Kisaragi are losing their minds.


    32: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    33: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi had been quiet for a while, so the anti-threads had calmed down, but they''re back in full force now.


    34: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾33


    Negative emotions are an infinite source of energy for humans. They can keep going endlessly when they''re driven by hate.


    35: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾31


    The antis are raging because Kisaragi implemented a donation feature for the company. Unicorns are losing it because Asagao and Kanacon are affiliated with him. And, well, the usual Kisaragi antis are just always mad.


    36: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi ignores any slander against himself, but he already said that if it involves his company or affiliated streamers, he''ll take legal action. So, I doubt anyone will dare say anything directly.


    37: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾36


    Are you sure about that? Since Kisaragi has been ignoring slander against himself, it might escalate, and they could end up attacking the company and the streamers, leading to lawsuits.


    38: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾37


    Ah, I can see that happening. People feel emboldened because Kisaragi usually ignores everything.


    39: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, maybe they should get a reality check?


    40: Anonymous Explorer


    If that were enough to stop them, we wouldn''t have problems on the internet.


    41: Anonymous Explorer


    Suing for slander is just something that comes with being a famous streamer.


    42: Anonymous Explorer


    Kisaragi might eventually hire an in-house lawyer just to deal with it, and honestly, I wouldn''t be surprised.


    43: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾42


    He''s got the money for it.


    44: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s not a far-fetched idea. I mean, he''s already got two accountants at the company right after starting it.


    45: Anonymous Explorer


    For real? LOL.


    46: Anonymous Explorer


    Wait, what?


    47: Anonymous Explorer


    This guy is on a whole different level...


    48: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, with corporate taxes and the streamers'' tax filings, plus the tax breaks for dungeon explorers, it makes sense to hire accountants. Given it''s a company focused on dungeon streaming, it''s only logical.


    49: Anonymous Explorer


    I wonder how big early bird will become as a streaming company.


    50: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾49


    Uh, the CEO already has over a million subscribers, you know?


    51: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s beside the point. He''s the apprentice of the famous Jinguji Kaede, Japan''s strongest explorer, and he''s widely considered the next domestic champion. He''s popular with the otaku crowd for his streams, and he''s got a massive international following due to his dungeon prowess. There''s no way he wouldn''t hit a million.


    52: Anonymous Explorer


    But didn''t he open his channel less than a year ago?


    53: Anonymous Explorer


    When did he start the channel?


    54: Anonymous Explorer


    It was at the end of July.


    55: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s been nine months, so close enough to a year. Good enough!


    56: Anonymous Explorer


    That''s way too laid-back, lol.


    57: Anonymous Explorer


    Will early bird become a famous company? The CEO has a million subscribers, and Asagao has hundreds of thousands¡­


    It''s already famous, right?


    58: Anonymous Explorer


    LMAO.


    59: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL.


    60: Anonymous Explorer


    They''re already famous enough, if you ask me...


    61: Anonymous Explorer


    Aren''t Kisaragi and Asagao basically the two biggest names in dungeon streaming now? If they suddenly team up and start a company, of course, it''ll get huge.


    62: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾61


    It''s like Square and Enix merging, right?


    63: Anonymous Explorer sea??h th§× n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    £¾£¾62


    Yeah, something like that?


    64: Anonymous Explorer


    Honestly, there''s no one else in Japan who can really compete with them in dungeon streaming. Though, lately, more Rank A streamers have started showing up, probably because Kisaragi is openly sharing info from the deeper levels.


    65: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s a bit late, though. For a long time, they monopolized the information. Then, when someone way more skilled came along, they just followed along like copycats. Kinda lame, honestly.


    66: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾65


    There was that one guy who got mad, saying Kisaragi was ruining the value of deep-level information by making it public.


    67: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾66


    Come on, it''s clearly the ones monopolizing the info that are in the wrong. That''s why Japan''s dungeon progress has been so slow.


    68: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾67


    (Other countries are pretty much the same, though.)


    69: Anonymous Explorer


    Really?


    70: Anonymous Explorer


    The dungeon explorer community is at the point where you get people trying to cling to their privileges. Then along comes Kisaragi, who doesn''t care about any of that, and just shakes things up. Of course, a monster like him doesn''t care about human petty interests.


    71: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, a monster.


    72: Anonymous Explorer


    He''s beyond the concerns of mere human wealth.


    73: Anonymous Explorer


    I like Mimika the best. (Sudden confession)


    74: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾73


    You sound dumb.


    75: Anonymous Explorer


    Sudden confession and immediate insult, lol.


    76: Anonymous Explorer


    I''ve been a fan from the beginning, so I''ll keep rooting for Panda.


    77: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾76


    Panda is great.


    78: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾77


    Totally agree. Panda''s streams are really fun to watch.


    79: Anonymous Explorer


    Panda probably gets a lot of attention from girls. He''s got a handsome face, he''s funny, considerate, and strong.


    80: Anonymous Explorer


    True.


    81: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m still a fan of Asagao-chan.


    82: Anonymous Explorer


    In the end, I think I''m a fan of the whole group... Kisaragi has said that the plan is for everyone to work hard together, so it sounds like they''ll collaborate more often rather than exploring solo.


    83: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾82


    Yeah, the main plan seems to be having them collaborate in dungeon dives, though compatibility between fighting styles is key with explorers.


    84: Anonymous Explorer


    Well, the CEO can do anything¡ªclose combat, long-range, support, full-on attack¡ªso he can pair up with anyone.


    85: Anonymous Explorer


    The CEO is just too strong!


    86: Anonymous Explorer


    I wish my company''s CEO was as capable¡­ I''ll just apply to work at early bird.


    87: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾86


    You''ll probably fail the application, lol.


    88: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾87


    Wow, really?


    Is that a dig at me for failing the application?


    89: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾88


    LOL, someone here actually failed.


    90: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾88


    Sending you my best wishes.


    91: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾90


    Man, that''s harsh. Time to become a Kisaragi anti.


    92: Anonymous Explorer


    I bet there are people who become antis just because they failed the application. There are crazies everywhere.


    93: Anonymous Explorer


    So, is Kisaragi focusing on training new talent now?


    94: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s more like he''s going to focus on developing his inner circle, but won''t be doing much collaborating with outside streamers.


    95: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾94


    What do you mean by "outside streamers"?


    96: Anonymous Explorer


    Like other dungeon streamers. He''ll probably still work with the EX ranks, though.


    97: Anonymous Explorer


    EX ranks don''t really "collaborate"; they''re more like special guests.


    98: Anonymous Explorer


    It''s like a family guest appearance, lol.


    99: Anonymous Explorer


    LOL, family. Kisaragi is definitely the youngest of the bunch.


    100: Anonymous Explorer


    I''m excited about a company focused on dungeon streaming. It may not be in high demand, but I wish Kisaragi would stream something other than dungeon exploring¡­ Maybe some regular gaming streams?


    101: Anonymous Explorer


    £¾£¾100


    That dungeon addict? No way.

 Chapter 117 - 117: Training the Next Generation

    "Hi everyone, it''s Asagao! Since I finally joined a company, today I''ll be collaborating with my fellow members! So, I''m here with Kanacon today!"


    "Uh... Hello, this is Kanacon, and I''ve started showing my face now. Nice to meet you!"


    :I love Asagao-chan


    :I love Kanacon-chan


    :Which one, lol


    :Asagao-chan has gone corporate now


    :Today''s guest is a beauty


    I was watching the archive of Asakawa-san and Miyamoto-san''s stream from yesterday, and I couldn''t help but notice something different about the comments section. I don''t mean to be rude, but it seems like the hardcore fans who were obsessed with them are gone... or something like that?


    I''m just speculating, but maybe it''s because they joined a company where there are men involved? I don''t really understand that kind of mentality, but recently, even my anti-threads have been getting pretty active.


    "What are you watching?"


    "...Yesterday''s archive."


    "Oh, Asagao-san and Kanacon-san''s stream."


    Panda¡ªDoubayashi-san¡ªpeeked at my phone screen from behind.


    It''s just before 7 AM on a weekday, and both Panda and I were sitting on a bench near Shibuya Dungeon, waiting for Ashiya and Tennoji to arrive. The goal today is, of course, to help the three of them level up. Specifically, we aim to raise Ashiya and Tennoji''s explorer rank from G to E.


    "Oh, sorry to keep you waiting!"


    "Good morning, boss!"


    "...Just call me Kisaragi."


    "Eh? But you''re the boss now, so let me call you that!"


    Hmm... Tennoji-san exudes this obvious "popular kid" aura. Ashiya-san chuckles, but Panda and I share a bit of an awkward response. So, it seems like Panda leans more towards being an introvert, while Ashiya is more of an extrovert.


    Since everyone''s gathered, I send out the party request. The party rank is treated as E since I''m here. Having two G-rank members means we probably shouldn''t go to the middle levels... but honestly, even with two or three G-rank members, I think we''d be fine in the middle levels. However, today''s focus is on basic training in the upper levels, so Panda''s just along for the ride.


    "Hey everyone, it''s Kisaragi Tsukasa, and I still don''t think we need a separate channel for the company."


    :We need it


    :But even if we create one¡­


    :How about naming your channel "[early bird]Kisaragi Tsukasa ch"?


    :Well, Kisaragi will probably handle the group streams anyway, so just using his channel is fine, right?


    "...It''s surprisingly crowded for a weekday morning."


    "That''s the brilliance of a million followers... Truly a boss."


    "Boss, you''re amazing!"


    "Oh, um... yes, you''re amazing, boss."


    "You don''t have to force yourself to join in, Ashiya. As for you, Panda, you''re getting a scolding later."


    "Why!?"


    :Lol


    :Panda started it, after all


    :Panda, come on¡­


    :Poor Panda, getting treated like the company pet


    :Love the pet slot for Panda in early bird


    Even so, it''s really crowded this morning. Maybe it''s because people are commuting, or there are students who haven''t started classes yet. Also, since it''s Monday, there might be some people who are off work today.


    "As stated in the stream title and announcement, today''s goal is to train the beginners, Ashiya Douman and Mimika, to be able to dominate the upper levels and reach Rank E by the end of the day."


    "...That''s weird. It took me about a year to go from F to E, didn''t it?"


    :Panda is just normal


    :Kisaragi''s the one who''s crazy. Don''t worry about it


    :Panda is actually talented, too


    :But Panda must have been evaluated as talented by Kisaragi to be accepted, right? Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "I asked everyone to bring a weapon that matches their preferred combat style today..."


    "Yep, I''ve got my usual."


    "Me too!"


    "I... I brought mine as well."


    Since Panda has been streaming for a while, I already know his fighting style. His self-enhancement through magic is ridiculously strong, and he fights using a large shield and spear, attacking cautiously when there''s an opening. It''s a solid, if somewhat overly cautious, style. Online, he''s often called "The Shield-Stabbing Chicken Panda."


    Tennoji, as usual, has only a small dagger. And Ashiya is holding a bow. This matches what I knew about them from their interviews.


    :Mimika-chan with just a dagger?


    :That''s a bit reckless¡­


    :Ashiya-kun has a bow but no arrows, lol


    :They''re still rookies after all


    :That''s quite the unusual setup


    :Meanwhile, Kisaragi just has one sword


    :But Kisaragi is basically a walking weapon, so it''s fine


    "Okay, let''s start by testing your skills on the upper-level enemies. Panda, you''ll just defend, no attacking."


    "Got it!"


    Apparently, Tennoji-san has been in the Shibuya Dungeon before, but Ashiya just moved to Tokyo from the Tohoku region after joining early bird, so this will be his first time in the Shibuya Dungeon.


    "Looks like we''ve got a few goblins coming our way."


    "Let''s go!"


    Oh, she''s charging in without waiting for instructions.


    Against five goblins, Tennoji-san made a stabbing motion with her dagger from a distance. In the next moment, one goblin''s head burst like a crushed fruit.


    :Whoa


    :Gross


    :That''s unsettling¡­


    :What just happened?


    :No idea¡­


    :This is way too brutal


    :I apologize for underestimating her earlier


    What she did was essentially shoot magic from her dagger without solidifying it or shaping it into a proper spell. It''s not very powerful, and normally it''d be hard to hit a specific target, but Tennoji-san seems to have the knack for it.


    "Should I... go as well?"


    "It''d help."


    Tennoji had already darted off, so Ashiya slowly readied his bow. I already knew how he fought since he explained it during the interview.


    The moment he released the bowstring, a blade of wind shot out from his bow and sliced a goblin clean in half. He doesn''t use arrows but instead fires magical arrows using his bowstring.


    "...They''re much stronger than I was at G-rank."


    "Don''t worry, you''re still stronger than them now."


    "Really?"


    :Lol


    :Panda, you''re fine


    :Kisaragi''s analysis is always accurate¡­ probably


    :Mostly sure


    :That''s debatable, lol


    :As long as Panda blocks, he''ll be fine

 Chapter 118 - 118: The Rookie Evaluation

    "With this, I think the viewers have a pretty good understanding of how Kishitani and Mimika fight."


    : About 30% maybe?


    : Not really getting it, lol


    : So...one''s just shooting weird stuff from a dagger and the other uses some strange magical arrow?


    : Brutal yet accurate, lol


    : Just based on their abilities, they could totally pass as mid-layer explorers, though


    : Why are they still G-rank, then?


    : Probably because they''re beginners?


    "Now, let''s go over the weaknesses we saw, shall we?"


    Just from watching that last fight, I could tell why these two are still stuck at G-rank. Well, in Kishitani''s case, it''s partly something he just can''t overcome on his own.


    "First, Mimika."


    "Yes!"


    "Hmm¡­ So, you can''t use magic, right?"


    "Eh!? How did you know that!?"


    I figured as much.


    : What''s that supposed to mean?


    : I have no idea what Kisaragi''s seeing here, lol


    : What does Kisaragi even notice that we can''t?


    "It''s similar to Kanakon¡­ you''re good at releasing raw magic, but you''re really bad at shaping it. I''d say you lack the imagination that''s crucial for using magic."


    Magic is a way to create miracles using one''s own magic power. But it requires a certain level of visualization to direct it effectively. People who have trouble multitasking are generally bad at handling magic. As for Mimika and Kanakon, though, it seems to be an innate limitation rather than just lack of experience.


    "In other words, right now, Mimika''s just shooting magic as raw power... like tossing a bullet with her bare hands instead of using a gun. Still, managing to smash a goblin''s head with just that is pretty impressive."


    : Isn''t she just a gorilla at this point?


    : Lol


    : Another magic-impaired gorilla, here we go


    : Whoever called Kanakon the "gorilla with a two-handed axe"¡ªthat''s on you


    : That''d be you


    : Isn''t it impossible to become a dungeon explorer if you can''t use magic? So, is it just raw gorilla power that gets you through?


    : In the end, physical strength is what counts


    : Yep, she''s totally a gorilla


    "So, for improvements¡­ like Kanakon, you''ll need a weapon that conducts magic more easily. Also, instead of trying to launch magic at a distance, get up close and hit them with everything you''ve got."


    "Basically?"


    "Get closer and punch harder."


    "Got it!"


    : LOL


    : Instant understanding


    : The way he explains it is hilarious


    : Is that okay, though?


    : Yep, still a gorilla


    : Love me some gorilla logic


    Yep...there''s not much else to add. There''s also the issue of her poor magic flow, but she''s still a beginner, so that''s fine. That''s why I''m diving in with her today¡ªto work on that.


    "Alright, next is Kishitani."


    "Y-yes!"


    "...Close-range weapons are absolutely not your thing, are they?"


    "You can tell?" S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    From his footwork to his gaze...it''s pretty obvious. He genuinely struggles with close-range weapons, which is why he relies on a bow.


    "And, I''m guessing that if an enemy gets too close, you''re at a total loss?"


    "Yeah¡­ I just can''t seem to aim properly when they''re right in front of me."


    : Isn''t that the opposite of what you''d expect?


    : But it''s a magic bow, after all


    : I don''t understand what it''s like to shoot arrows without actual arrows


    : Is that just how it works?


    When he says "magic arrows," he''s really just shooting a magical form through his bow. He''s not actually drawing an arrow¡ªhe''s casting magic with a unique routine by pulling the bowstring. I can make a wind blade that can slice a goblin in half with my bare hands too, after all. Basically, his fighting style is like Kamishiro''s, who mainly uses magic.


    Mimika can''t use magic because she lacks the imagery to release it, whereas Kishitani uses his bow to visualize and release magic. It''s an unusual approach, making it tricky to give advice, but there is something I can suggest.


    "First, don''t even think about what to do when enemies get close."


    "What!?"


    "Your combat style was never designed for solo combat. It''s not possible."


    : LOL, "Not possible"


    : True, firing a magic arrow means he''d need someone covering him


    : Couldn''t he just boost his body and move quickly?


    : If he could do that, he''d be fine with close combat


    : So, he''s just giving it up?


    "Make sure you''re in at least a two-person team when you''re in the dungeon. That''s why you''re part of the group."


    "...Doudou, could I count on you?"


    "Me? Not the boss?"


    "Well, the boss¡­ can handle everything on his own, can''t he?"


    Yeah¡­ I guess that''s true.


    : Yep


    : Lol


    : Fair point


    : I mean, it''s not like Kisaragi needs anyone to cover him with a bow


    : If he really needed it, he''d just create a shikigami


    : One-man army


    : Kisaragi might be fine alone, honestly


    : Why is Kamishiro still exploring solo, anyway?


    : EX status


    : That label solves everything


    If Kishitani''s made his choice, I won''t say anything, but¡­ I''ll admit, I''m a little disappointed.


    "Beyond that, you two mostly need to focus on the basics. There''s also the magic flow, but¡­ that requires feeling the magic circulate internally first, which might be tricky. You can ask Asagao to help with that."


    "Wait, Asagao instead of you?"


    "Yes. She''s got this unique ability to actually see magic, so she can explain it verbally, unlike me, who just goes by feeling."


    Most explorers rely on intuition to circulate magic, but Asakawa can actually see and consciously control it. She''s far better suited for teaching this than I am.


    : Isn''t being able to see magic totally OP?


    : Yeah, that''s one of Asagao''s insane abilities


    : And it''s so powerful that even Kisaragi can''t see it, right?


    : Asagao''s secretly amazing, huh?


    : She''s obviously a hardcore explorer


    : Going straight into full-time exploring after high school is pretty intense


    "Alright, next is Doudou."


    "Oh¡­ me too?"


    "Yes. We''re not going to push you too hard, so don''t worry."


    "Alright then."


    : "Yet"


    : He''s totally being tricked


    : C''mon, Panda, are you that clueless?


    : LOL


    : When the viewers are more aware than the guy himself


    To be honest, Doudou''s fighting style could handle a bit more strain than Asagao''s. His defense is exceptional. Well¡­ I sometimes wonder if he''s too focused on shielding and doesn''t move enough, though. He also doesn''t have a solo-oriented fighting style. In that sense, he''s likely a good match for Kishitani.

 Chapter 119 - 119: Forging Bonds in the Dungeon Depths

    "Uwooooo! I can totally wreck these goblins!"


    "You seem to be having fun."


    : Ugh, this¡­


    : I love how he''s acting all tough against weak enemies, typical cannon fodder move


    : Panda¡­ you''re just the best, man


    : Whether he''s acting cocky against weaklings or freaking out against stronger foes, I love both sides of Panda


    Despite his loud battle cry, Doumoto''s approach to fighting is simply to hide behind his massive shield and poke the goblins with his spear. This is just how he fights. Even against goblins, he never fails to raise his shield, almost like it''s an obsession. That level of defense, however, can''t be dismissed with a simple compliment¡ªit''s incredibly solid.


    I''ve met a lot of EX-rank explorers, but I don''t have much interaction with S-rankers or others below that, so I can''t really compare Doumoto''s ability. I know that Aizawa-san, who also plays the tank role, has a completely different approach¡ªmore of a dodge tank style¡ªso it''s not really comparable.


    "How''s that!"


    "Kinda¡­ dull."


    I mean, his defense is impressive, but honestly, it''s pretty dull. Taking that much time to deal with just a handful of goblins? And he''s already D-rank, too.


    : That''s the most "bland" attack I''ve seen


    : Brutal, but fair lol


    : The banter between Kisaragi and Panda is actually great


    : I love how he calls out the most boring tactics


    : Accurate and savage


    "''Dull''¡­ okay, sure, but my fighting style is all about not getting hurt! This is how I do it!"


    "Yeah, I''m not saying you should change your style, dull as it may be. I''ve never seen anyone so dedicated to defense like you, so I can''t really judge. Your defense is solid, and your quick decision-making isn''t bad either. But yeah¡­ it''s dull."


    "Did you really need to say ''dull'' twice!?"


    Well, it was dull. Sure, I praised his skills, but all he did was hide behind his shield and poke at goblins one by one, unlike Tennoji-san or Ashiya-san, who have much flashier techniques. S§×ar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Then how about you try it, boss!"


    : Uh-oh


    : Here we go¡­


    : Do not, I repeat, DO NOT unleash the monster that is Kisaragi in the upper levels


    : Someone stop him from going wild


    : It''s gonna get messy


    I saw three goblins in the distance and fired a beam¡ªwell, technically a spell¡ªfrom my hand, instantly vaporizing them.


    "There."


    "S-Sorry for talking back, sir."


    : Panda folded immediately lol


    : Go munch some bamboo and take a nap


    : That was quick, lmao


    : Why did Panda even think he could compete with an EX-rank?


    : Kisaragi is on a whole different level


    Honestly, it''s weirder to be tiptoeing around goblins. They''re not exactly tough opponents.


    "Well, I''ve now seen everyone''s basic fighting styles and the issues you need to work on. The next step will be some off-stream training¡­ maybe I''ll borrow my grandma''s dojo for a bit."


    "Your grandma¡­ as in Jinguji Kaede!? I''d love to meet her!"


    Ah, as expected. Female explorers tend to look up to my grandma. Asagao-san also admires her a lot, and now I see Tennoji-san is no different.


    "For now, that''s all for the basics¡­ let''s head to the upper layers and hunt monsters until you both hit E-rank. I''m sure you can easily reach E-rank today."


    "Yeah, considering their skill, E-rank should be a breeze. Honestly, even D-rank isn''t out of the question."


    "Well, the Association has its reasons for holding back on promotions."


    Even if someone manages to slay a bunch of monsters, promoting them too quickly could result in them getting killed in the mid-layers. We have to be cautious.


    Moving from the lowest to the upper layers, the goblins do get a bit stronger¡ªor so they say. Personally, I can''t tell the difference. Still, both Tennoji-san and Ashiya-san are handling the upper-layer goblins with ease, even taking down Steel Ants without any issues. Watching them fight, Doumoto starts muttering about how he used to run away from goblins back when he was G-rank.


    Honestly, with his overly cautious "don''t get hurt" mentality, I''m not surprised.


    : These rookies are showing a lot of promise


    : Seriously, they''re already taking down Steel Ants without any real help from Kisaragi


    : Kisaragi hasn''t even started training them yet, and they''re already this strong


    : Imagine having an EX-rank like Kisaragi training people who might go on to be S-rank someday


    : Isn''t training explorers the government''s job?


    : If the government had to handle dungeon explorer training, the country would fall apart, lol


    I don''t know how far these two will go, but they''ll definitely make it through the lower layers. Whether they cap out at A-rank or push to S¡­ maybe even reach EX¡­ that''s something only time will tell.


    Honestly, becoming EX isn''t something you can achieve just by being strong. You have to be exceptional in some specific way, something that sets you apart from everyone else. A strong personality or unique skill is essential. Both Tennoji-san and Ashiya-san have distinctive traits¡ªTennoji''s raw magic release and Ashiya''s magic arrows shot exclusively through his bow. They''ve got that individuality.


    And for streaming? They''ve got potential for good content.


    "Boss."


    "It''s Kisaragi. Please, anything but ''Boss.'' How many times do I have to say this?"


    "Sure, sure¡­ so, why''d you start this company?"


    Doumoto, watching the two rookies fight from the back, started chatting with me.


    Why did I start the company¡­ well, there are a few reasons.


    "Honestly, the rise in dungeon streaming was a big factor. But I''d also heard that many explorers couldn''t make a living just from exploring and had to rely on side gigs like streaming or blogging for extra income. I thought maybe I could help stabilize that.


    Though, in the end, it feels like I''m just supporting streamers and not really doing much for explorers¡­ And yeah, I guess part of it''s just because it''s fun for me."


    "That last reason''s probably the main one, isn''t it?"


    "Yup."


    What can I say, he''s not wrong.


    , building a company just for fun


    , it''s working, so who cares


    a fanbase of over a million, Kisaragi''s company was never going to fail


    , the streams are entertaining to watch


    , honestly, just watching these makes for great content


    is doing a lot by nurturing new talent


    with Kanacon, right?


    , exactly


    It''s true that having my own company makes it easier to train explorers. And I guess, in the end, I also just wanted some companions to dive into dungeons with. Maybe that''s the real reason.

 Chapter 120 - 120: The Path to Shikigami Mastery

    After spending a few days training the newcomers, I''ve started to notice a few things. Right now, we''re borrowing my grandma''s dojo, and Asagao-san is teaching the others how to circulate their magic properly... and I''m streaming the whole thing from behind them.


    "Hm¡­ it seems like only Kishiya-kun is having trouble with the flow."


    "I-I''m sorry."


    : Yeah, I don''t get it either, so don''t worry


    : Not sure how that''s comforting though


    : Honestly, I can''t even move my magic at all, so it''s probably a talent thing


    : I tried it for health benefits, but I''ve gotten nowhere


    : I guess moving magic around really is a talent you''re born with


    "Kishiya-san, could I talk to you for a second?"


    "M-me?"


    This guy''s special. I''ll have to be the one to teach him¡­ I guess it''s time to get grandma involved for real.


    "Asagao-san, please continue with Mimika-san and Doumoto-san. Kishiya-san, you''re coming with me. Let''s do something fun."


    It''s my first time seeing someone like him with my own eyes... someone who has the potential for shikigami magic.


    We leave the dojo and head over to the porch where grandma always drinks her tea. As expected, she''s downing a cup of green tea like it''s water. She should really savor it more.


    "Grandma."


    "Hm? Oh, it''s you."


    "He might have a talent for shikigami magic."


    "M-me? Really!?"


    "Oh?"


    Curious, grandma set her tea down and studied Ashiya-san closely.


    "Now, where did I put that book¡­"


    "Uh, that''s supposed to be a forbidden text passed down in our family..."


    "Bah, it''s defective magic. Only a select few can use it anyway. It''s not really forbidden."


    Ouch¡­ I rely on that "defective" magic for most of my battles.


    "Besides, you were the last one to read it, so why don''t you just teach him yourself?"


    "Ugh, are you going senile?"


    "I''ll smack you."


    Yeah, yeah¡­ I guess I should teach it myself. But this is all on stream¡­ should I really reveal family secrets online? Even if it''s not perfect, it''s still a big deal.


    "Not sure what you''re worried about, but you''re the one who inherited it, so do as you like. I don''t care if the world knows about that ''defective'' magic."


    "You know, our ancestors are probably going to be pissed if they hear that..."


    Well, if grandma says it''s fine, I guess it''s fine. If Ashiya-san masters shikigami magic, he''ll be a huge asset.


    "Ahhhhh!"


    "Oh, sorry about that¡­"


    : LOL


    : Panda''s getting wrecked


    : Dude, are you even a man?


    : Poor Panda, getting tossed around by three women


    : Panda always ends up with the ladies, though


    : Hey, I''m a guy, and I like Panda too


    : That''s great, but nobody asked


    When I return to the dojo, I see Doumoto-san being casually thrown into the air by Miyamoto-san. Looks like they''ve moved on from basic circulation practice to sparring. Given Miyamoto-san''s natural sense for magic flow, Doumoto doesn''t stand a chance.


    "Good work, everyone."


    "S-sir... I just got beaten by a younger girl¡­"


    "Ahaha, don''t worry. Asagao-san''s even younger, so it''s no big deal."


    "Of course it''s a big deal!"


    Well, Miyamoto-san''s circulation is driven purely by raw talent, and Asagao-san''s ability to visually perceive magic flow is like solving a test with the answer sheet in hand. There''s no beating them in that department unless you have sheer magical output.


    If Miyamoto-san gets 100 points on a test because she''s a genius and Asagao-san gets 100 because she has all the answers, your only option is to force the grading scale to 1,000 and somehow score 1,001. It sounds dumb, but when it comes to magic, raw power and output win the day. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Alright, Kishiya-san, it''s time for your shikigami magic lesson."


    : Shikigami magic!?


    : Is Kishiya gonna learn how to summon spirits now!?


    : If I watch this stream, maybe I''ll learn too?


    : Hell yeah, time to become the strongest explorer!


    : Finally, my dream of controlling shikigami is within reach!


    Shikigami magic requires a certain innate talent, but mastering it isn''t too hard. The key is imagination. The amount or quality of magic only affects the strength of the shikigami, not the summoning itself.


    "First, think of a living creature. You want to build a vessel for it. The textbook says to create a physical form for the shikigami, but honestly, you can just mold it out of your magic."


    "R-really?"


    "Give it a try."


    The easiest thing to summon on the fly would be a small fairy-like creature. Picture a tiny fairy a few centimeters tall. What''s its gender? Hair style? Personality? What kind of magic is it good at?


    What do its wings look like? Its eye color? Think of everything, and let the image form.


    "''Pixie.''"


    With that, a small fairy materialized in the air.


    "Like this."


    "Mmmmm... hnnnng¡­"


    "You''re trying too hard."


    : I don''t get it either


    : Looks impossible


    : Even with talent, it''s still not happening lol


    : Kisaragi is just broken


    : The more I watch, the more I realize Kisaragi''s just not normal


    : Born to be EX


    : Natural-born EX, lol


    He''s struggling, huh? I think the problem is with Ashiya-san''s imagination. Creating a living thing from scratch is pretty tough for anyone. But once you succeed the first time, it''s usually easier. It''s all about building that initial confidence.


    "Maybe don''t force yourself to focus on living creatures. Personally, I can''t imagine anything moving unless it''s alive, but you might not have that issue."


    "Something¡­ not alive?"


    Ah, his magic''s shifting.


    "''Shadow Puppet!''"


    As Ashiya-san clasped his hands together and called out, a human-shaped shadow crawled out from beneath his feet¡­ but¡­


    "It''s tiny."


    : LOL


    : Yeah, that''s pretty small


    : Like, 10 centimeters?


    : Is this even usable in a fight?


    : Definitely needs more training


    : Baby steps, man


    A super tiny shadow puppet. That''s probably the best Ashiya-san can do right now. As he gets stronger, his shikigami will naturally become more powerful¡ªthat''s the great thing about this magic. However, it''s also a drawback since weak summoners create weak shikigami.


    To be fair, "Shadow Puppet" isn''t strictly shikigami magic. It''s more of a derivative spell that uses similar principles. But hey, my necromancy is also a bit off the beaten path, so I''ll let it slide.

 Chapter 121 - 121: Bone Hunter

    Materials that are excellent for conducting magic include wood. Perhaps because plants fall under the category of living organisms, wood is especially adept at channeling magic, much like the human body. For example, when someone proficient in magic circulation uses a wooden sword, it might cut better than a poorly crafted iron blade.


    Similarly, bone materials, which are also derived from living organisms, are prized as magic-conducting materials, though they fall slightly short compared to wood. Although acquiring bones is more troublesome than wood, history shows that they can be easily processed into bone weapons, making them highly valuable.


    And that''s why I want bones from a monster found in the deeper layers of the dungeon. Specifically, I''m looking for a large enough bone to craft a battle axe. Obviously, the person I''m making this for is Miyamoto-san.


    "So, when thinking about monsters that leave behind bones as materials... the first thing that came to mind was the Skull Dragon."


    : Never heard of it Sear?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Why do you always go to the deep layers¡­


    : Here he goes again, casually streaming from the deep layers solo


    : What are you talking about? It''s been a while since he''s done a solo deep dive


    : Last time was the Nagoya Dungeon, so... a few months ago?


    : Yeah, sounds about right


    : But, seriously, solo streaming in the deep layers is not normal, man


    : I forgot how extreme this guy is, probably because of all the newbie training recently


    The Skull Dragon is exactly what it sounds like: a dragon made entirely of bones. It''s a monster that swims in magma in the Aso Dungeon, located at the foot of Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture. Since I''m trying to craft a crucial weapon that Miyamoto-san will likely use for a long time, I made the trip all the way to Kyushu just to get these materials.


    "The Aso Dungeon doesn''t get much attention, does it? I bet a lot of you have never even heard of it."


    : Huh? I''m from there, I know it!


    : Never heard of it


    : I know Mt. Aso, but not Aso Dungeon


    : Are there even dungeons in Kyushu?


    : Okinawa, Kumamoto, Fukuoka, Kagoshima


    : I didn''t even know Aso Dungeon had deep layers


    : Of course, it does


    : Not every dungeon has deep layers, though


    The reason Aso Dungeon is so obscure is simply that it''s not that rewarding. The monsters there are mostly skeleton-based or adapted to high heat, but they don''t drop large magic stones. There aren''t that many monsters either, so while it''s better than Hachioji Dungeon, it''s still pretty inefficient for making money. Plus, there''s a more lucrative and popular dungeon nearby: Fukuoka Dungeon.


    So, yeah¡­ it''s no surprise Aso Dungeon flies under the radar.


    I''ve been talking a lot of smack about Aso Dungeon, but that''s only from the perspective of an average explorer. To those with certain needs, Aso Dungeon can be a gold mine.


    "It''s actually really popular with blacksmiths, though."


    : Totally agree (as a blacksmith)


    : Wait, there are blacksmiths here?


    : Of course, man, you never know who shows up in Kisaragi''s streams


    : This stream is so random


    : Please put more Aso Dungeon bone materials on the market!


    : Nah, I''ll sell you Fukuoka Dungeon materials instead


    : Nooo, Fukuoka Dungeon stuff is overpriced!


    : Isn''t Aso Dungeon''s stuff even pricier?


    : Sure, but it''s better quality, from what I hear


    "But, you know, if I flood the market with too much of it, people get mad. There''s always someone who complains about the rarity factor."


    : I don''t care, just flood the market


    : The blacksmiths are fuming, lol


    : Bone weapons are so expensive, man


    : Is your sword made of bone too, Kisaragi?


    "This? Nah, it''s made of regular ore. I''m not really into swords that much."


    : Yeah, figured


    : We all knew that


    : Come on, take more pride in your weapon!


    : He really doesn''t care about swords, huh


    What can I say? I don''t collect weapons as a hobby, and I''m not even that good at wielding them. Lately, I''ve mostly been in the backline, shooting beams during group dungeon runs. Let the others handle close combat. Miyamoto-san and Doumoto-san are our dedicated frontline fighters in the company, anyway.


    : What exactly are you doing right now?


    : Doesn''t it look obvious?


    : Bro, all I see is you throwing rocks at magma¡­


    : Same here, I''m confused


    : Yeah, no one knows what''s going on


    "The Skull Dragon swims in the lava. So, I''m throwing rocks and waiting for it to come out. I came all the way here wanting its bones, but it could take hours for one to appear. Maybe I''ll get lucky and see one after a few hours."


    Skull Dragons are pretty rare. I''m on the 72nd floor of Aso Dungeon, and I''ve already been sitting here, chucking rocks into the lava, for about an hour. Exploring dungeons requires a lot of patience.


    "Just so you know, if you get bored and start watching videos on your phone, you might get ambushed and die, so don''t do that."


    : Who would do that??


    : I wouldn''t be watching videos in a dungeon, come on


    : Do people actually risk their lives to watch videos?


    : No way


    "Didn''t someone die from that a few years ago? There are always idiots, no matter the era."


    For the record, I''m keeping an eye on my surroundings with my shikigami, so I''m not in any danger. By the way, throwing rocks into the magma serves no real purpose. I''m just killing time. Normally, I''d be maintaining my weapons or petting my shikigami, especially my Raijuu.


    "Oh?"


    : What''s happening?


    : Did you get a hit?


    : Is it biting?


    : This isn''t fishing, man


    : It''s basically lava fishing at this point


    : Lava fishing sounds pretty cool, not gonna lie


    I noticed the lava ripple unnaturally. No way¡ªI wasn''t expecting to find a Skull Dragon after just an hour. Today''s my lucky day!


    Or so I thought¡­ but instead of a dragon, a giant skeletal snake lunged out of the lava with its jaws wide open.


    "Huh?"


    The entire thing was made of bones. I was expecting a Skull Dragon, so this pissed me off. I sidestepped its charge, grabbed its head, and slammed it into the ground, stomping on its skull until it shattered.


    : Whoa


    : That was brutal, man


    : Poor snake didn''t deserve that


    : Don''t feel too bad, the Skull Dragon''s gonna get the same treatment


    : RIP random snake, you''ll be missed


    : Ouch, that hit me in the gut


    : Why though?


    : Kisaragi, you got a bit of a delinquent streak, huh?


    : Also, why aren''t you using your sword?


    That was annoying¡­ Well, if nothing else shows up soon, I''ll head to the next floor.

 Chapter 122 - 122: Clash of Titans

    "What kind of girls do you think he likes?"


    "Big boobs, for sure. This guy plays games that are all about that."


    "Who could possibly resist big boobs?"


    "Even guys who like small boobs don''t actually hate big boobs."


    "Maybe there''s someone with a phobia of big boobs."


    "Does that even exist?"


    "Who knows?"


    "...Can we stop guessing weird stuff about my preferences just because we''re bored?"


    Apparently, I''ve been labeled as someone who likes big boobs, and honestly, it''s hard to deny it outright. Come on, I was a normal high school boy until just a month ago. Of course I like them. I''m an otaku introvert, after all.


    : How long is this going to take?


    : What if Skull Dragons don''t even exist, and Kisaragi''s just making it up?


    : He said it''s a rare monster, didn''t he?


    : How rare are we talking?


    : Like pulling an SSR in a gacha game, maybe?


    : Gacha game odds vary, though.


    : It''s probably like rare crafting materials in games.


    : That depends on the game too, man.


    "The odds are probably about the same as pulling an SSR in a typical mobile gacha game."


    I don''t know the exact rates, but let''s say 1-2%. At 1%, you have about a 60% chance of pulling one if you roll 100 times. But then again, I''m not pulling a monster out like in a gacha; I''m just waiting around for one.


    : But haven''t you moved down like three floors already?


    : Are you close to the bottom now?


    "Well, I''m not really sure how many floors are in this dungeon. But right now, I''m on the 75th floor. I think the furthest anyone''s gone is around the 80th floor, so there''s probably more beyond that."


    By the way, the highest anyone has gotten was back when my grandma was young. What the hell, seriously... This is why they call her Japan''s strongest. Back in her day, the top explorers were only around D-rank. I mean, the lower layers were considered hell back then, much like how the deep layers are treated now. And she went solo down to the 80th floor? That''s insane.


    Even now, she says she''s past her prime and doesn''t actively dive into dungeons anymore, but stories like these make me wonder¡ªwas she even stronger back then? Or is she still just as strong and is downplaying it?


    "


    Sigh


    ... I''m getting sleepy."


    : If you fall asleep, you''re dead.


    : What is this, the mountains?


    : Same thing happens in Antarctica, though.


    : We''re near lava, guys, not freezing weather.


    : Isn''t it like 50 degrees Celsius there?


    : How is it only 50 degrees with lava around?


    : Lol


    : Maybe it''s dungeon magic keeping it cool.


    "It''s not that hot, honestly. Sure, you shouldn''t touch the lava, but I''d say the temperature in the dungeon is around 40 degrees Celsius, give or take."


    : Wait, can explorers control how much heat they feel?


    : No way.


    : What do you think explorers are, superheroes?


    : They''re superhuman.


    : Freaks.


    : Only Kisaragi is a freak, though.


    : You''re spreading unfair rumors about explorers now, lol.


    There are hot dungeons and cold dungeons in the world. Still, there''s no way dungeon explorers can adjust their body''s temperature perception. Let''s be real, if someone could do that, they''d basically be invincible... though I don''t actually know what would happen if someone could.


    "Oh, is that it?"


    : Oh?


    : Is it happening?


    : Did you hook it?


    : Stop describing it like fishing.


    : LOL


    : This really is like fishing for lava monsters, huh?


    : Lava fishing, now there''s a new sport. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The lava surged upward, splashing around as a massive black skeleton dragon emerged from the depths. Yup, that''s the Skull Dragon I was after!


    As soon as it spotted me, it lifted its front leg and slammed it down onto the ground, causing magma to erupt around me, but I dodged it easily.


    "...Is it just me, or is this Skull Dragon way bigger than what''s described in the records?"


    : How should we know?


    : Are there even records of this thing?


    : Yeah, they exist.


    : You can actually buy basic info on them.


    : Does it include monsters from deep layers like this?


    : I doubt it.


    : It''s probably one of those guides that say, "See it for yourself from here."


    : Old-school game strategy guide vibes.


    : Dungeon strategy guidebook, lol.


    If I remember right, the Skull Dragon was supposed to be about 10 meters long from head to tail. But this one''s at least 15 meters. It even has wings made of bones. Is this a different species?


    "Well, whatever."


    It''s still a dragon. The bones should be hard enough. Let''s test it out with a lightning beam.


    "...Huh?"


    : Didn''t work, did it?


    : Wait, what?


    : Is it immune to magic?


    "No, it looked like it absorbed the magic."


    Can that even happen? I can wrap my head around the idea of absorbing magic, but this thing just sucked up the spell with its entire body. That means the bones themselves have a magic-absorbing property. If that''s the case, a weapon made from this thing would have some pretty extreme characteristics. But if you could master it, it''d be insanely powerful.


    "Alright, let''s take it down."


    There are probably two ways to deal with something like this. One is to smash it to bits with pure physical force. That''s the easiest and most straightforward method. The other way is to overload it by making it absorb so much magic that it explodes from the inside. I don''t think it can absorb magic infinitely, so that''s an option. But let''s just go with the simple method for now.


    "''Gyuuki.''"


    For raw power, this guy''s the best.


    In terms of brute strength, it''s probably stronger than even the Twelve Heavenly Generals. Since the Skull Dragon absorbs magic, it''s better to use a straightforward powerhouse like Gyuuki rather than a multi-magic wielder like the generals.


    With a roar, Gyuuki charged straight toward the Skull Dragon.


    "Alright."


    : Kisaragi''s unsheathed his sword.


    : He''s going to fight for real this time.


    : Magic didn''t work, after all.


    Let''s see how much I can crush those bones using just physical power. If I can cleave through its exposed spine, that should be enough to kill it. Though if it''s one of those monsters that can still move even if its spine is destroyed, I''ll just have to chop it up into smaller pieces until it stops. Not much changes in the plan, either way!

 Chapter 123 - 123: Shattering Skull Dragon

    As Gyuuki continued to clash with the Skull Dragon, the debris flying around was manageable. What made things difficult, though, was the magma flying along with the rubble¡ªdefinitely an annoying challenge to deal with.


    "Hmm... I wonder which part of its bones would work best for an axe." sea??h th§× ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Are you really worrying about that right now?


    : Do the bones even stay intact?


    : Don''t monsters just turn to dust when they die?


    : Some monsters disappear, but not all of them. Bosses on the final floors don''t vanish either, so it''s not surprising if some remain.


    : You sure about that?


    : Maybe it''s only final floor bosses that don''t vanish?


    To be honest, I haven''t fought every single monster in every dungeon in the world, so I can''t say for sure. But according to the records, the Skull Dragon''s bones remain after it''s killed... for reasons unknown. If we could figure that out, we might understand dungeons better, but that''s not my job.


    Still, if its bones remain after it''s killed, wouldn''t that mean the entire skeleton stays intact if I break it apart completely? Now I''m curious... maybe I should break the whole thing into pieces.


    "Gyuuki!"


    As the Skull Dragon charged toward me, Gyuuki slammed it away with a massive punch. It was a bit comical to see the 3-meter-tall Gyuuki send the 15-meter-long Skull Dragon flying, but I couldn''t just sit back and watch.


    : Man, Shikigami techniques are so intense and cool.


    : Honestly, if it weren''t for the fact that only a few people can use it, this technique would have no drawbacks.


    : The only drawback is that if the caster is weak, the Shikigami is weak too.


    : That just limits the number of people who can use it.


    : It''s already super limited, though.


    : Not being able to use it is normal for most people.


    : Guess that''s true.


    While the Skull Dragon struggled to get back up, I rushed in and swung my sword down on its head. But the sound of my blade hitting something incredibly hard echoed through the air, and the impact was so strong it left my hand numb.


    "Ugh!"


    And just as I managed to get a clean hit on it, the Skull Dragon spewed magma at me. I jumped back, but the magma slithered across the ground, chasing after me. Gyuuki took the brunt of the magma attack for me, groaning in pain, which told me¡ªyeah, this is real magma, not just some visual trick.


    How the heck is it even spitting magma? Its body is literally all bones with nothing else. Is it generating magma with magic inside its body? If that''s the case, maybe I could copy the technique... not that I would, though.


    "Ha!"


    With Gyuuki holding the Skull Dragon''s attention, I took the opportunity to jump off its back and strike at its foreleg, charging my blade with magic to enhance its hardness. But once again, I was met with a hard impact that sent a painful shock through my arm.


    "Damn, it''s absorbing the magic from my sword too!"


    : Is Kisaragi actually struggling?


    : It''s not like he''s losing. He''s just having trouble cutting through those bones.


    : Looks like he


    could


    finish it off if he wanted to, though.


    : I feel like it''s rare to see Kisaragi struggling like this.


    : Guess he''s not really suited for close combat.


    "The damn thing not only absorbs magic across its entire body, but physical strikes barely do anything either... What a piece of crap monster."


    Are you kidding me? This thing is just ridiculous. Someone nerf it already.


    : Resistant to magic


    and


    physical attacks?


    : Skull Dragon''s actually pretty strong, huh?


    : It''s a deep-layer rare monster. Of course, it''s strong.


    : Skull Dragon fan club in the making here, lol.


    As frustrating as this is, it doesn''t seem like my attacks are completely ineffective. My magically-enhanced strike left a small crack on its foreleg. If I keep targeting those cracks, I might just be able to break through.


    "Gyuuki, I need you to act as bait."


    : Bait, huh?


    : Using your own summon as a meat shield, classic.


    : It''s his own Shikigami, of course, he''s going to use it as a shield.


    With the strategy in mind, all that''s left is to put it into action.


    Gyuuki roared, drawing the Skull Dragon''s attention, and the two started trading blows again. From observing the fight, I noticed that the Skull Dragon reflexively focuses on whoever attacks it. In simpler terms, it''s kind of dumb.


    While Gyuuki distracted it, I circled around and hit the other foreleg with another magically-charged strike, cracking it as well. When the Skull Dragon turned to face me, Gyuuki seized the opportunity to punch it square in the face, sending it flying again.


    "Alright, now it''s my turn to be the bait."


    : This fighting style is pretty brute force.


    : Like master, like student?


    : Didn''t Kisaragi''s master only teach him basic martial arts?


    : But his master fights the same way.


    : Yeah, but she''s fast enough to make it work.


    Using my speed, I dashed in and kicked the Skull Dragon in the head, grabbing its attention once again. As soon as it turned its gaze to me, I transferred more of my magic to Gyuuki, empowering it further. Gyuuki jumped up and came crashing down on the Skull Dragon''s spine, crushing both forelegs and snapping its back in the process. The force of the blow caused the bones to crack and shatter, leaving only the Skull Dragon''s head bouncing away from the impact.


    "Why is it always the head that keeps moving?"


    Now that it was just a head, it was much slower. I stepped on it, concentrated magic at the tip of my blade, and drove it through the skull. The head tried to absorb the magic, but without the rest of the body, it couldn''t handle it, and my sword pierced through.


    ...It looks kind of ridiculous, honestly, like something straight out of a pirate movie.


    : The head''s still moving? LOL


    : Guess the head was the real deal after all.


    : It''s probably just animated by magic. I doubt it has a "real" body.


    : So it was absorbing magic because it


    was


    magic-powered?


    : I dunno, man.


    : Then why are you saying that? Lol.


    After impaling the skull, it dissolved into dust, leaving behind a massive magic stone that I have no idea how it fit inside the body. But the fragmented bones Gyuuki had crushed were still intact. Even though they were shattered, given that the Skull Dragon was about 15 meters tall, there were still plenty of large bones left.


    ...Now, was breaking it like that considered "cutting" the bones? Well, whatever, it''s dead now, so I guess it doesn''t matter.

 Chapter 124 - 124: Forging Bonds and Weapons

    Today, everyone is gathered at the office for a livestream. This time, it''s for preparing to dive into the dungeon.


    "And here we have it, ta-dah! Weapons made from the bones of the Skull Dragon."


    : Is this a shopping channel?


    : How much does it cost?


    : Billions of yen!


    : What a bargain! (sarcastically)


    : Whoa, thanks to Kisaragi, they''ve released Skull Dragon materials on the market! They were so expensive I couldn''t afford any!


    : LOL


    This time, I brought in the Skull Dragon materials to have a two-handed axe made for Miyamoto, a dagger for Tennouji, and a great shield for Doudou. I sold off the remaining materials and put them on the market, but since the material was so rare, it ended up in an auction. I knew the blacksmith viewer in the chat wouldn''t be able to afford it.


    "Is it really okay for me to have something like this...?"


    "...I saw the stream, but you seriously hunted a deep-layer monster? Are you a monster yourself?"


    "Wow!"


    Miyamoto looked intimidated by the high-end weapon, Doudou kept calling me a monster for some reason, and Tennouji... well, she didn''t seem to care all that much.


    "Kanakon! These weapons were made specifically for us! If we don''t use them, the materials will go to waste! And it''s not like the boss really cares, right?"


    "Yeah. Since I brought the materials myself, the dagger didn''t even cost a full ten million yen."


    "Ten million yen!?"


    Looks like Doudou is about to pass out.


    Well, if I hadn''t gone to get the materials myself and bought them instead, it probably would have cost billions. The materials themselves are crazy expensive. But since I went to collect them, all I had to do was order custom-made weapons, and the total didn''t even hit a billion. Getting three custom weapons that can be used even in the deep layers for under a billion is pretty amazing.


    : Wow, the numbers are starting to sound like a hyper-inflated online game.


    : LOL


    : I mean, if a dagger costs less than 10M, that''s cheap, right? (gamer brain)


    : Is it true that this came out of the boss''s own pocket?


    : Yep, it''s true.


    It''s not so much out of my pocket¡ªit''s more that the money from selling the Skull Dragon materials easily covered the cost. So it''s really not a big deal. But for mid-layer explorers like Miyamoto and Doudou, that amount of money must sound astronomical. On the other hand, I think it''s more amazing that Miyamoto has been fighting in the mid-layers this whole time with just upper-layer gear.


    "Wow... this is nice."


    "''Nice''? Is that all you''ve got to say?"


    : Knight-kun with the solid retort.


    : Asagao-chan...


    : Asagao-chan''s lost her sense of value too.


    : If this is what all EX-ranked people are like, their sense of money is totally broken.


    : Kisaragi only acts like this when it comes to dungeon stuff, so it''s fine. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : I don''t think that''s fine.


    The deeper you go into the dungeon, the more you make, but also the more you spend. That said, the profits far outweigh the costs, which is why people do it. By the way, in the chat, they''re calling him "Knight-kun" because of his name, Kishitani Douman. It''s a play on the "Kishi" part, which means knight in Japanese. I guess it''s kind of like how Rinrin gets called "Panda."


    "So, I''d like the two of you to reach D-rank soon."


    "We just got to E-rank, didn''t we?"


    "You can''t stay in the upper layers forever. Oh, by the way, Asagao and Kanakon, you two still have some free time. Personally, I''d like Kanakon to team up and experience the lower layers."


    "Okay!"


    "Wait, already?"


    Asagao responded with her usual enthusiastic reply, but Miyamoto was clearly shocked that I was suggesting she dive into the lower layers already. Still, with her self-enhancement abilities, she''s already capable of handling the lower layers. All that''s left is for her to attune her new weapon to her magic. She''s already strong enough for the lower layers.


    Asagao, holding her newly-crafted spear, started chatting with Miyamoto. I figured I should take Tennouji and Kishitani to the Association to demonstrate their abilities.


    "The goal is to take down a Wyvern."


    "Wait, what?"


    Naturally, I won''t be helping out. If I step in, they won''t be able to rank up. So, Tennouji and Kishitani, under Doudou''s guidance, will be hunting the Wyvern on their own.


    "I got us some high-performance cameras, so Doudou... good luck leading them."


    "You''ve got to be kidding me."


    It''ll be fine. Even if taking down a Wyvern is tough, once they manage to bring down a few, Doudou will be promoted to C-rank, which means he''ll be able to explore the lower layers. Then we''ll boost the other two to C-rank, and once that happens, we can all explore the lower layers together. Then... I''ll really be able to drag them through the depths.


    : LOL


    : Good luck, Panda.


    : Panda''s suddenly been put in charge of a Wyvern hunt.


    : And he''s never hunted a Wyvern before, has he?


    : Wait, really?


    : I thought mid-layer explorers always hunted Wyverns.


    : Stop spreading false info about mid-layer explorers, lol.


    : Are you guys making Asagao the standard for mid-layer explorers now?


    : She''s not mid-layer, she''s lower-layer.


    Trust me. I''d like you to believe in my ability to assess combat potential. The three of them can definitely handle two Wyverns at once. Even if three show up, it''ll be tough, but they can just run away if necessary. That said, if Kishitani fully masters his Shikigami technique¡ªhis Kageboushi¡ªhe could probably take down five Wyverns... I think. I don''t actually know the full potential of the Kageboushi, so I''m guessing!


    "Oh, and Asagao, make sure you submit your rank promotion request."


    "...Ugh, the paperwork is such a pain."


    "It has to be done in person, and the office staff can''t help you with it. But you could probably hit A-rank right now, so get it over with."


    Sure, going to the Association multiple times and filling out the same forms is tedious, but if you don''t do it, you''ll stay stuck at C-rank forever. You get more tax reductions when you rank up, so it''s worth it. But Asagao doesn''t really do this for the money, so...


    Hmm... Oh, I know.


    "If you reach A-rank, you can go to the deep layers with me. Just the two of us."


    "I''m submitting the paperwork now! I get to go to the deep layers with just you, right?!"


    Uh... wasn''t that too easy?


    Does she really want to explore the deep layers that much?

 Chapter 125 - 125: Forged in Battle

    With our gear packed, strategies reviewed, and a fresh set of high-end weapons, we gathered around the entryway to the Tokyo Metropolitan Dungeon the next day. Today was all about hitting new depths, testing both the team''s mettle and their new equipment to the limit. There was an air of confidence mixed with anticipation¡ªthis was their first taste of lower-tier floors, where survival wasn''t guaranteed.


    We began our descent, with Asagao and Douman up front, leading the way through the initial upper layers. The team was more focused than I''d ever seen, each one moving with deliberate steps, even as Asagao, always the liveliest, kept the mood light.


    "Nothing like a little dungeon stroll in the morning," she quipped, nudging Douman with a grin.


    Tennouji rolled her eyes, but the slight smile showed she was loosening up too. Despite the challenge that awaited, there was an air of excitement. They''d all been waiting for this moment¡ªthe chance to test their skills and prove that they weren''t just some average team scraping by in the dungeon world.


    As we made our way through the first few floors, we encountered lower-level creatures, but their movements were already sharper, more coordinated than I''d seen from them before. Asagao darted forward with newfound agility, spear in hand, striking cleanly with every move. Her attacks were quick and fluid, a testament to the weeks of training we''d put in.


    "You''re faster than last time," Douman noted, impressed. "I might actually have to pick up the pace to keep up."


    The chat was buzzing, keeping up with each team member''s progress and commenting on every maneuver:


    : Asagao out here like a pro!


    : Douman better not fall behind!


    : Did Asagao get faster, or am I imagining things?


    : They''re really in sync now. This isn''t the same team from last week


    We reached the lower floors, and the shift in atmosphere was palpable. The monsters here weren''t the simple-minded goblins or trolls of the upper floors; these creatures were strategic, moving in packs and sensing our approach with an eerie accuracy. I could feel the team tensing, and I quickly reminded them to stay calm, to rely on each other.


    "Tennouji, Douman, stay together," I instructed, gesturing for Asagao to take the left flank. "Remember, no one gets isolated."


    They nodded, falling into formation. It was essential down here, where one wrong move could spell the end. I kept a close eye on everyone''s movements, watching for signs of hesitation or doubt. But as I observed, I saw none. The training, the hours spent drilling formations, and the mental preparation were paying off.


    A dark shape emerged from the shadows¡ªa wyvern, flanked by a group of smaller, fast-moving creatures I''d encountered before: shadow lurkers. They were aggressive and used their agility to distract opponents, letting larger creatures swoop in for the kill. S§×arch* The N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "Shadow lurkers!" I called out, signaling Douman to raise his shield and Tennouji to take aim. "Focus on the small ones first; we''ll get to the wyvern after."


    Douman stood his ground, shield raised as the lurkers circled us, darting in and out of the shadows, testing our defenses. Tennouji''s new short sword, crafted from the very bones of the wyvern we''d taken down, glinted in the dim dungeon light. With a swift motion, she slashed at a lurker that got too close, the creature vanishing in a puff of dark smoke.


    Asagao leaped forward, her spear a blur of motion as she pinned another lurker to the ground. "One down!" she called out, the thrill of the fight clear in her voice.


    The wyvern roared, sensing that its support was dwindling. Douman braced himself, preparing for the inevitable charge. The chat was already lighting up with comments, their excitement mirroring the tension in the dungeon.


    : Douman better hold that shield!


    : Asagao''s on fire today!


    : Tennouji''s going in with that new blade!


    : This team has come so far


    The wyvern launched itself toward us, its wings spread wide as it barreled through the air. Just as it was about to reach Douman, he raised his shield, taking the brunt of the blow and skidding back several feet. Tennouji and Asagao took advantage of the momentary pause, flanking the wyvern and targeting its weaker joints.


    "Now!" I shouted, giving them the signal. Tennouji and Asagao struck simultaneously, their weapons digging into the wyvern''s scaly hide. It roared in fury, twisting to shake them off, but Douman held his ground, his shield firmly planted. The creature lashed out, its tail whipping dangerously close, but the team moved with precision, dodging each attack with practiced ease.


    The fight was intense, every second a delicate balance between offense and defense. But slowly, we began to gain the upper hand. The wyvern''s movements grew sluggish, its roars weaker. In one final coordinated move, Asagao drove her spear into its side while Tennouji delivered the finishing blow to its neck. With a shudder, the creature collapsed, defeated.


    For a moment, there was silence. Then, the team let out a collective cheer, their faces lit up with exhilaration and relief. They had done it¡ªthey''d taken down a wyvern in the lower tiers without any assistance. They had grown into true dungeon explorers, capable and determined.


    The chat was exploding, a cascade of excited comments and celebratory emojis:


    : THEY DID IT!


    : That was insane! I didn''t think they''d actually take it down


    : Asagao and Tennouji are a dream team!


    : Douman held the line like a pro¡ªrespect


    I couldn''t help but smile as I looked at them, proud of how far they''d come. This was only the beginning, but they were ready for the challenges ahead. We had conquered the lower tiers today, but the path to the deeper levels awaited.


    "Alright, team," I said, catching their attention as they caught their breath. "This was just the first step. Get ready, because next time, we''re going even deeper."


    They exchanged determined glances, their faces resolute. We turned to continue our journey, the weight of the dungeon before us, but with the strength and unity we''d built, I knew we were ready.

 Chapter 126 - 126: Whispers of the Forbidden

    The message had appeared out of nowhere, bypassing even the Dungeon Association''s usual security protocols. Its sender was just a set of initials:


    M.K.


    "The Shibuya Dungeon is not what it seems. Floors exist far below the Deep Floors, hidden even from EX-ranks. They hold something that may change your understanding of the dungeons themselves. If you wish to know more, meet me at the rendezvous point marked below."


    I read it twice, feeling that familiar tug of curiosity¡ªand a touch of caution. Even after all this time, secrets like this still sent a thrill through me, but something about this felt different. The promise of knowledge that could reshape everything I knew about dungeons... it wasn''t something I could easily ignore. S§×arch* The N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kijin, my loyal Shikigami with his piercing eyes and quiet strength, sat beside me, almost as if he sensed my hesitation. He always seemed to know when something serious was on my mind. His eyes met mine, and I could see the question there:


    Are you sure about this?


    "Let''s go," I murmured, more to him than to myself. He flicked his tail once, a slight indication of his own reluctance, but he followed without hesitation. Kijin had been with me the longest, and out of all my Shikigami, he was the one I trusted most. With him by my side, the pull to go was stronger than the doubt.


    When I arrived at the rendezvous¡ªa small, shadowed caf¨¦ on the edge of Hachioji¡ªI half-expected to find no one there. But a lone figure was waiting in the back, his face hidden beneath a wide hat, only his sharp eyes visible as they looked up to meet mine.


    "Tsukasa Kisaragi," he greeted, his voice steady, carrying a weight that told me he''d been through his own share of battles. "I''m glad you came."


    I nodded, slipping into the booth across from him. "What''s this about? Why send me such a cryptic message?"


    "Because you''re one of the few who might understand," he replied. "I''m Makoto Kai, a retired explorer¡­ though, if you do take this offer, you''ll soon realize that the title ''retired'' doesn''t quite cover what I do."


    I raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to continue. He leaned forward, dropping his voice.


    "There are floors beneath the Deep Floors in Shibuya. Places that few have seen. I call them the ''Forbidden Floors'' because they exist outside the natural order of dungeons. Down there, magic behaves strangely, and creatures of immense power stand guard over... something." He paused, eyes flicking toward me. "I believe these floors hold the secret to why dungeons exist."


    A chill ran through me. I''d heard stories, of course¡ªlegends whispered among explorers about the deepest levels of dungeons holding unexplainable horrors. But I''d always thought they were just that: stories.


    Makoto reached into his coat and handed me a small, leather-bound book. "This journal will guide you. But be warned, the creatures down there are nothing like what you''ve faced before. They may even disrupt your Shikigami bond."


    Kijin''s ears twitched at that, and I felt my own heart skip. "Disrupt my Shikigami? How?"


    "It''s the magic. Something about it interferes with bonds like yours. Be prepared to face challenges like you never have."


    With that, he stood, giving me one last searching look before he left me alone in the caf¨¦, the weight of his warning settling heavily on my mind.


    The next day, I found myself at the Shibuya Dungeon''s 65th floor, my pulse racing as I traced the symbols on the stone floor just as Makoto''s journal instructed. The rune barely glowed, but as soon as I murmured the incantation, the ground beneath me shifted, revealing a winding staircase leading deeper into the unknown.


    Kijin and Raijuu, my two closest Shikigami, flanked me as I descended. They moved with the confidence that only came from countless battles by my side, but even I could sense their unease. The air felt different here¡ªthick, like it was pressing down on us, whispering secrets I couldn''t quite hear.


    The passage finally opened into a massive chamber, its walls shimmering with a strange mineral I''d never seen before, casting eerie shadows across the room. Standing in the center of it was a creature unlike any I''d ever encountered.


    It was huge, with the body of a lion but covered in scales that glistened like metal, arcs of energy dancing across its body. Its eyes locked onto me, and for a brief second, I felt something almost... intelligent in its gaze, as if it recognized me as an intruder.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, stepping back slightly. "This one''s all yours."


    Kijin let out a low growl, his eyes narrowing as he sized up the creature. Raijuu, crackling with electricity, darted forward, his body a blur as he aimed for the creature''s flank.


    The beast moved with an agility that defied its massive size, sidestepping Raijuu''s attack and swiping at Kijin with claws that seemed to cut through the air itself. Kijin dodged, then retaliated with a burst of shadows, aiming to obscure the creature''s vision.


    But it didn''t work. The creature simply roared, dispelling the shadows with a surge of energy that nearly knocked me off my feet.


    "Stay sharp," I muttered, more for myself than for them. This wasn''t like the usual fights where I could stand back, letting my Shikigami handle the bulk of the battle. This creature was adapting, countering their moves with frightening precision. I felt a prickling sense of urgency.


    As Kijin and Raijuu continued their assault, I noticed something unsettling¡ªthe longer the fight went on, the more sluggish their movements became, as if the air itself was sapping their strength.


    That''s when I remembered Makoto''s warning.


    "Pull back!" I called out, and they immediately retreated, their breaths heavy, eyes wary as they regrouped around me. I clenched my fists, realizing this was one of those rare times I''d have to step in myself.


    I took a deep breath, centering my focus. "All right... let''s finish this."


    Kijin and Raijuu circled the beast, creating openings that I could exploit. With a quick nod to them, I lunged forward, sliding beneath the creature''s claws as it swiped, narrowly dodging. I drove my blade toward its chest, aiming for the heart¡ªbut its scales deflected the blow, sending a jarring shock up my arm.


    The creature roared, swiping at me, but Kijin leapt in, intercepting the blow with a snarl. Raijuu followed up with a crackling surge of lightning, managing to stagger it just enough to give me another shot.


    "Now!" I called out, channeling energy into my blade. This time, I aimed for a gap between its scales, and with a powerful thrust, the blade struck true.


    The beast shuddered, its roar fading into a low, guttural growl as it collapsed, its body dissolving into mist.


    I exhaled, wiping sweat from my brow. It had been a close call, closer than I''d care to admit. My Shikigami returned to my side, each of them visibly drained but with a glint of satisfaction in their eyes. Even Kijin, usually stoic, let out a soft chuff as he settled next to me.


    Before I could fully catch my breath, my gaze fell upon a massive stone door on the far side of the chamber. It was covered in symbols similar to the ones on the rune that had led me here, glowing faintly as if reacting to my presence.


    "So this is it," I murmured, more to myself than anyone else.


    I reached out, placing a hand on the door. As soon as I touched it, the symbols flared to life, and with a deep, resonant groan, the door began to open, revealing a dark, narrow passage leading further down.


    A shiver ran down my spine. This wasn''t over. It felt like I''d only scratched the surface of what lay hidden in these forbidden depths.


    With a nod to my Shikigami, I stepped forward, ready to face whatever waited in the darkness beyond.

 Chapter 127 - 127: Echoes in the Dark

    The stone door closed behind us with a heavy, echoing thud. I felt the cool air rush through the passage, swirling with an odd, metallic scent that made my skin prickle. Kijin and Raijuu, my two most trusted Shikigami, flanked me as we moved forward. Neither of them made a sound, their usual quiet confidence replaced by an alert wariness that I hadn''t seen in them before.


    The deeper we went, the more oppressive the silence became. I couldn''t even hear the usual distant growl or faint tremor of other creatures roaming nearby floors. Here, it was as if the air itself had been stilled, waiting. The only sound was the soft pad of my steps and the light crackle of Raijuu''s fur.


    As we walked, the walls seemed to close in, their surfaces shimmering with a faint, unnatural glow. I glanced at Kijin, whose keen eyes swept every inch of our surroundings, and he met my gaze with a flicker of concern. Even Raijuu''s usually playful, fearless demeanor had shifted to something more subdued.


    "Whatever''s down here," I whispered, "isn''t going to make this easy for us."


    My Shikigami stayed silent, but their tension said everything. They knew as well as I did that we were far past the normal realm of dungeons. These floors¡ªMakoto called them the "Forbidden Floors"¡ªfelt less like they were part of the dungeon ecosystem and more like an entirely separate world.


    We came upon an open chamber, dimly lit by crystals embedded in the walls, casting an eerie, greenish glow. The faint light revealed the skeletal remains of some unknown creature sprawled across the floor, its bones twisted and broken as if from a long-ago battle. A chill prickled along my spine.


    "What happened here?" I muttered, crouching down to examine the remains. The skeleton was massive, much larger than any typical dungeon monster. Its rib cage was crushed, and a few jagged bones jutted out like broken spears. Whatever had killed it was powerful¡ªstrong enough to shatter bone with a single strike.


    Kijin prowled forward, his nose close to the ground, sniffing cautiously. After a moment, he looked up at me, his gaze troubled. He''d caught the scent of something, but I didn''t need him to tell me what it was. The stale, metallic tang of blood still lingered, ancient but sharp.


    I straightened, glancing around the chamber. "Let''s keep moving. Whatever did this¡­ it might still be around."


    We slipped into the next passage, the walls becoming narrower, pressing in on us. Shadows twisted and stretched across the floor, flickering in the dim light like they had a life of their own. Raijuu''s fur bristled, tiny sparks dancing along his coat, a sure sign that he sensed something amiss.


    Then, ahead, I saw it¡ªa massive figure, hulking and misshapen, blocking the passageway. It stood motionless, its head bowed as if in slumber. My heart skipped a beat. The creature was like nothing I''d ever seen.


    It was an amalgamation of different animals¡ªpart bear, part lizard, with wings that looked more skeletal than functional. Its skin was cracked and flaking, exposing patches of raw, dark flesh beneath. Its mouth hung open, revealing rows of jagged teeth, and a faint mist rose from its maw.


    I took a step back, signaling for Kijin and Raijuu to stay close. The creature didn''t move, but I could feel the oppressive energy radiating from it, seeping into the walls and floor.


    "Kijin," I whispered, "can you take a look without waking it?"


    He gave a slight nod, his eyes narrowing as he slinked forward, moving as silently as a shadow. I held my breath, watching his every move, tense with anticipation. Kijin had scouted countless monsters before, but even he seemed wary of this one.


    Raijuu and I waited in silence, our eyes trained on Kijin as he circled the creature, his gaze sharp and unblinking. For a moment, I thought we might be able to slip past it undetected. But then, with a low, guttural snarl, the creature''s eyes snapped open, a sickly yellow glow illuminating the darkness.


    I froze, my mind racing. It hadn''t made a move yet, just staring at us with those unblinking eyes, but I knew the next moment would decide everything.


    Without a word, I signaled to Kijin and Raijuu. Raijuu darted forward, his body crackling with energy as he aimed a lightning bolt straight at the creature''s face, hoping to catch it off guard. The bolt struck true, but instead of staggering back, the creature absorbed the energy, the glow in its eyes intensifying.


    This thing was no ordinary monster. It was as if the very rules of magic didn''t apply here.


    "Raijuu, keep moving!" I called out, watching as he circled around, his movements a blur of electricity. Kijin launched a volley of shadow attacks, aiming for the creature''s joints, trying to slow it down, but the attacks seemed to pass through it as if it were made of smoke.


    Realizing we were getting nowhere, I clenched my fists. I didn''t like stepping in personally unless absolutely necessary, but this might be one of those times.


    "Fine," I muttered, drawing my weapon. "Let''s see if we can at least slow it down."


    I advanced cautiously, staying just out of reach as Raijuu and Kijin continued their barrage. The creature''s gaze flickered to me, its maw widening in what almost looked like a grin. I swallowed, forcing myself to stay focused. This was no time to hesitate.


    I closed in, my blade flashing as I aimed for its neck, hoping to catch it off guard. But as my blade made contact, the creature''s form shifted, and my strike passed through it as if it were nothing but mist. My eyes widened, and I pulled back, barely avoiding a swipe from its claws.


    "This is... different," I breathed, glancing at Kijin and Raijuu. They were just as puzzled as I was.


    Before I could regroup, the creature lunged, moving faster than something its size should be able to. Kijin and Raijuu leapt back, but the creature''s claws grazed Kijin, leaving a deep gash along his side. A low growl escaped him, but he steadied himself, his eyes filled with determination.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªlet''s try something different." I felt a surge of focus, calling on the bond I shared with them. "Let''s merge attacks."


    Raijuu circled the creature, his body crackling with an intensity I hadn''t seen in a long time, while Kijin summoned shadows, shrouding the entire chamber in darkness. In the dim light, only the creature''s yellow eyes glowed, a beacon in the murky depths.


    I gathered my energy, channeling it through my bond with Raijuu. "Now!"


    Raijuu unleashed a powerful surge of electricity, the lightning coursing through the shadows Kijin had created, amplifying their power. The combination struck the creature dead-on, and this time, it recoiled, its body flickering and distorting as if its form couldn''t hold.


    I tightened my grip on my blade, preparing for a final strike, but just as I moved, the creature let out a deafening roar, its body collapsing into a swirling cloud of mist. The sound reverberated through the chamber, rattling the walls and sending a shiver down my spine.


    When the mist cleared, the creature was gone, leaving nothing behind but a faint, acrid smell. S§×ar?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kijin limped back to me, his wound still raw, but he stood tall, his gaze steady. Raijuu trotted over, his usual energy dampened by exhaustion. I knelt beside them, murmuring words of reassurance, feeling a mix of pride and relief.


    But my relief was short-lived. Ahead, in the center of the chamber, something began to shimmer¡ªa large, circular doorway, inscribed with the same symbols I''d seen on the stone door before.


    I stared at it, my heart pounding. This was no ordinary floor, no ordinary dungeon. Whatever lay beyond that door was something... ancient. Something that felt as if it had been waiting for someone like me to arrive.


    "Come on," I whispered to my Shikigami, moving toward the door, my senses on high alert. "Let''s see what''s next."


    Kijin and Raijuu fell into step beside me, their eyes watchful, their bodies tense. I reached out, touching the door, and felt a pulse of energy, a feeling almost like... recognition.


    The door slid open, and I stepped forward, feeling the weight of the unknown pressing down on me.

 Chapter 128 - 128: Shadows of the Unknown

    The doorway sealed behind us, leaving only the dim, eerie glow of the walls to guide our path. The air was thick, stifling, as though we''d stepped into a place that hadn''t been disturbed for centuries. I could feel it pressing down on me, a quiet, persistent weight that made each breath feel heavier than the last.


    Kijin and Raijuu flanked me as we moved forward, their movements almost as cautious as mine. Raijuu''s fur bristled, tiny sparks flickering along his coat in response to the strange energy suffusing the air. Kijin, ever stoic, kept his gaze forward, but I could see the way his ears twitched, his muscles tense beneath his sleek fur. S~ea??h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The corridor stretched endlessly before us, twisting and turning in ways that made no sense. It felt like we were walking in circles, yet I knew we hadn''t changed direction. Every few steps, I''d glance back, half-expecting the path behind us to have shifted, but it remained as unchanging as the one ahead.


    "This place¡­" I murmured, more to myself than to them. "It feels... alive."


    Raijuu let out a low, uneasy growl in agreement. Kijin just glanced at me, his gaze sharp, as if he too sensed the unnatural atmosphere of the dungeon''s depths.


    After what felt like an eternity of walking, we reached another chamber, its walls lined with strange carvings that seemed to pulse with a faint, rhythmic glow. The symbols were unfamiliar, etched in patterns that defied any logic I could grasp. They curved and twisted, branching out like veins, as though alive and breathing with the pulse of an ancient heartbeat.


    I stepped closer, tracing my fingers over one of the symbols, feeling the faint hum of energy beneath my touch. The symbol flared briefly, then dimmed again, leaving a lingering warmth on my fingertips.


    "What are you?" I whispered, as if the walls themselves might answer. But of course, there was only silence.


    Kijin growled softly, pulling my attention back to the center of the chamber. There, in the dim light, something shimmered¡ªa dark, shifting figure, like a shadow detached from any source. It pulsed with a strange energy, flickering in and out of focus, as though caught between two worlds.


    The shadow shifted, and for a brief, heart-stopping moment, I thought I saw eyes¡ªcold, calculating, and filled with an intelligence that felt both ancient and alien. My hand tightened around the hilt of my weapon, even as I knew instinctively that it wouldn''t be enough against something like this.


    Kijin and Raijuu sprang forward, their bodies low and poised, ready to attack. But before they could reach it, the shadow flickered, dissolving into the floor, leaving nothing but an echo of its presence behind.


    "Did¡­ did we scare it off?" I muttered, not fully convinced.


    Raijuu sniffed the ground where the shadow had been, his nose twitching with a mixture of curiosity and unease. Whatever it had been, it wasn''t like any monster I''d encountered. It didn''t feel like a living creature at all; more like... a fragment of something else. Something that didn''t belong in our world.


    With a final glance around the chamber, I nodded to my Shikigami, and we pressed on. The path twisted and narrowed, the walls pressing in so close I had to turn sideways to squeeze through at points. Every now and then, the symbols on the walls would flare as I passed, their pulsing glow casting strange shadows across my face, as if watching me, tracking my every step.


    We emerged into yet another chamber, this one even larger than the last. The floor was littered with fragments of crystal and bone, remnants of battles long past. A series of towering statues loomed over us, each one carved in the likeness of creatures I could only describe as monstrous gods, their expressions twisted into sneers and grimaces that sent a shiver down my spine.


    But what drew my attention most was the massive, circular stone slab in the center of the room. It was engraved with symbols similar to those on the walls, but these were arranged in a spiral pattern, leading inward to a single, glowing point at the center.


    I stepped closer, feeling the pull of that central point like a magnet. As I reached the edge of the slab, I felt a pulse¡ªa beat that echoed in my chest, in perfect synchrony with my own heartbeat. It was as though the dungeon itself were alive, breathing, its pulse entwined with mine.


    "Tsukasa¡­"


    The voice was soft, a whisper barely audible, yet it sent a chill through me. I froze, glancing around, but there was no one there¡ªjust me, Kijin, and Raijuu.


    But I knew what I''d heard. Someone, or something, had whispered my name. My gaze shifted back to the glowing center of the slab, and a strange sense of clarity washed over me.


    This wasn''t just a dungeon. It was... a prison. A seal, designed to contain something powerful. Something that was very much aware of my presence.


    Kijin let out a low growl, his gaze fixed on the slab. Raijuu''s fur bristled, sparks flickering along his coat as he sensed the tension thickening in the air. They could feel it too¡ªthe awareness pressing down on us, watching, waiting.


    Suddenly, the ground beneath us began to tremble. Cracks spidered across the floor, radiating outward from the slab''s center. The statues around us shuddered, their eyes flaring with an eerie, crimson glow.


    I took a step back, my heart pounding. "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªbe ready."


    As if in response, the statues began to move, their stone limbs creaking and groaning as they came to life, their once-blank eyes now fixed on me with a predatory gleam.


    "Just great," I muttered, positioning myself between my Shikigami and the advancing statues. "Guess we''re doing this."


    Kijin darted forward, his shadowy form slipping through the dim light, aiming for the closest statue''s joints. Raijuu followed, his body crackling with electricity as he launched a bolt toward the statue''s chest. The lightning struck, but the statue barely flinched, its stone body absorbing the attack with ease.


    These things were resilient¡ªstronger than the usual dungeon constructs.


    "Time for Plan B," I said, nodding to Raijuu. He shifted, launching a series of rapid strikes, each one aimed at the cracks forming on the statue''s body. Kijin moved in tandem, striking with precision, targeting the weakest points with swift, calculated blows.


    The statue let out a low, rumbling growl as the combined attacks finally began to take effect, its limbs cracking and splintering under the pressure. It staggered, one arm falling limp at its side, but it didn''t stop. The other statues moved forward, their eyes glowing brighter, their footsteps shaking the ground beneath us.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfall back!" I called, regrouping as the statues closed in, their massive forms blocking any exit from the chamber.


    I could feel the weight of their gaze, that ancient, unknowable intelligence lurking behind those crimson eyes. It was as though the dungeon itself were testing me, watching to see how I''d respond.


    All at once, the central point on the stone slab flared to life, casting the chamber in a harsh, blinding light. I shielded my eyes, feeling the pulse grow stronger, resonating through my entire body. When I looked again, the statues had stopped, their eyes dimming as they returned to their original positions, frozen in place.


    The light from the slab began to swirl, coalescing into a single, shimmering figure. It hovered just above the ground, its form shifting and flickering like a mirage. I squinted, trying to make out its shape, but it was as though it refused to be seen, an entity caught between reality and some other plane.


    "Tsukasa," it whispered again, its voice echoing through the chamber, filling the space with a sense of cold finality. "You should not be here."


    I swallowed, feeling a chill settle over me. "Who... or what are you?"


    The figure''s form flickered, its gaze unblinking as it seemed to peer into my very soul. "I am a fragment... a memory. Bound to this place, a remnant of what once was. And you... are trespassing."


    The weight of its gaze pressed down on me, a force that threatened to overwhelm my senses. I took a step back, feeling Kijin and Raijuu close in protectively on either side.


    "What do you want?" I managed, my voice barely above a whisper.


    The figure tilted its head, an expression I could only describe as pity crossing its shifting features. "The seal is weakening. The world beyond is not yet ready for what lies here. You would do well to turn back."


    With that, the figure faded, its final words lingering in the air like an unspoken warning.


    I stood there, the silence pressing in around us once more, feeling the weight of the unknown settle over me.


    Turning to Kijin and Raijuu, I took a steadying breath. "We''re not turning back," I murmured, more to myself than to them. "Not until we know exactly what this place is hiding."


    They both nodded, their expressions resolute. Whatever lay ahead, we''d face it together.

 Chapter 129 - 129: The Pulse of the Forbidden

    The stone door closed behind us with a deep, echoing thud, leaving only the eerie glow of the walls to guide our way. I started the stream, adjusting the camera to capture the narrow, twisting passage ahead, as well as the tense figures of Kijin and Raijuu beside me.


    "All right, everyone," I whispered, keeping my voice low. "Welcome to the Forbidden Floors. This place¡­ it''s different. Feels like the dungeon itself is alive."


    The chat instantly filled with reactions:


    : WOAH Forbidden Floors reveal! Finally, the rumors were true?


    : This is giving me serious horror vibes, Tsukasa¡­


    : Is it just me, or is it too quiet? Usually, you can hear distant growls or something.


    Kijin prowled forward, his gaze sharp, while Raijuu''s fur bristled, tiny sparks crackling along his coat in response to the tension in the air. The strange, rhythmic pulse echoed through the floor¡ªa low thrum that matched my heartbeat.


    "You''re right," I said, keeping my voice steady. "There''s something¡­ oppressive about this place. The walls, the air, even the ground. It all feels like it''s watching us."


    : Dude, I swear I just saw something moving in the shadows behind you!


    : Raijuu and Kijin look super tense¡­ something''s off.


    : Anyone else hearing that weird heartbeat sound? So creepy!


    I adjusted the angle, letting the viewers see the massive chamber we''d entered. At its center stood a single, black crystal resting on a pedestal, the surface glossy and dark, reflecting the faint light from the walls. Strange symbols covered the walls, pulsing in rhythm with the crystal''s energy, like veins feeding some unknown force.


    "Check this out, chat," I murmured, zooming in on the crystal and the carvings. "Looks like a core, but¡­ it''s giving off a different energy. Almost like it has a mind of its own."


    : That crystal looks like bad news¡­


    : Anyone else getting major horror vibes here? S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Careful, Tsukasa! You don''t know what that thing is capable of.


    The closer I got, the stronger the pulse became, each beat resonating through my entire body. As I reached out, almost touching the crystal, I felt a sudden rush of icy energy surge through me. My vision blurred, filled with flickering images¡ªdark shapes, ancient symbols, places I didn''t recognize. And then a whisper drifted through my mind, clear and cold.


    "You are not meant to be here¡­"


    I pulled back, stumbling slightly as the images faded. My heart pounded, and I glanced back at Kijin and Raijuu, both of whom were watching the crystal with wary eyes. Chat had gone wild.


    : What was that?! Did anyone else hear it?


    : Something''s not right. That crystal is dangerous, Tsukasa.


    : That voice¡­ felt like it was speaking to me too. Creepy af.


    I shook my head, trying to regain my focus. "It''s fine, everyone. Just¡­ unexpected. Let''s move forward and see what else this place has hidden."


    We advanced through the chamber, only to hear a low rumble from behind us. I turned just in time to see a massive, shadowy figure rising from the floor¡ªa serpent-like creature, its body twisting and coiling, its cold, glowing eyes fixed directly on me. The chat went silent for a heartbeat, then exploded.


    : OMG, WHAT IS THAT THING?!


    : Is this even a dungeon monster? It looks¡­ wrong.


    : Tsukasa, stay back! That thing looks like a nightmare!


    The creature stared at me, an unsettling intelligence behind its eyes. This wasn''t just a mindless monster. It was something else. Something aware.


    "All right, team," I muttered to Kijin and Raijuu. "Let''s see what we''re dealing with here."


    Raijuu sprang forward, his body sparking with electricity as he launched a bolt of lightning straight at the creature''s head. Chat went wild, cheering him on as the bolt connected¡ªbut instead of recoiling, the creature absorbed the energy, its scales glowing with a strange, dark light.


    : No way¡­ it absorbed the attack?!


    : Raijuu''s lightning doesn''t work on it? How is that possible?


    Kijin darted in next, striking with shadow-infused attacks aimed at its exposed underbelly. But the creature twisted with uncanny agility, evading each strike and countering with a swipe of its tail that forced Kijin back. My jaw tightened.


    "Looks like we''re not dealing with a typical monster here," I muttered.


    : This thing''s adapting! Every attack just makes it stronger¡­


    : How can it dodge Kijin like that? It''s almost like it knows their moves.


    I signaled for Kijin and Raijuu to regroup, feeling the weight of the creature''s gaze as it watched us, as if calculating its next move. I rarely intervened directly in battles, but this creature was pushing us to the limit.


    "All right, chat," I said, a note of resolve creeping into my voice. "This is one of those rare times you''re gonna see me step in."


    The chat lit up in excitement.


    : YES! Tsukasa going all-out! This is what we came to see!


    : Show us what an EX-rank can really do!


    : Take this thing down!


    I took a step forward, signaling to Raijuu and Kijin to create a diversion. Raijuu launched another burst of lightning, aiming high, while Kijin slipped through the shadows, hitting the creature''s weak points. The creature twisted, hissing, but this time, I was ready. As Raijuu''s lightning struck, I moved in, driving my blade into its core.


    The creature shuddered, its body flickering and distorting, until it dissolved into dark mist, vanishing without a trace. I let out a breath I hadn''t realized I was holding, and the chat erupted in celebration.


    : THAT WAS EPIC!! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!


    : Forbidden Floors don''t mess around. That thing was unreal.


    : Tsukasa, Kijin, and Raijuu: unstoppable trio! Let''s go!


    I grinned, giving the viewers a nod. "Thanks, everyone. That was¡­ a lot. But we''re good now."


    But before I could take a step back, the crystal on the pedestal began pulsing with renewed intensity, filling the chamber with a dark, vibrating energy. The whispering returned, filling my mind with fragments of images, glimpses of a world that felt distant yet familiar. And then, a voice, cold and calm, spoke directly into my mind.


    "The seal is weakening¡­"


    The voice was clearer this time, an unsettling clarity that sent a shiver through me. I could feel it probing, like it was reaching into the edges of my mind, searching for something.


    "Did¡­ did anyone else hear that?" I asked, glancing back at the chat.


    : Heard what? Are you okay, Tsukasa?


    : What do you mean? We didn''t hear anything.


    "Release¡­ me."


    The words echoed in my thoughts, filling the silence of the chamber. I stumbled back, feeling a chill run down my spine, the weight of those words pressing down on me.


    "What¡­ what are you?" I whispered, half to myself.


    The chat continued to flow, messages of worry and confusion scrolling by.


    : Tsukasa, don''t do it. Whatever that thing is¡­ it sounds dangerous.


    : Release me? Is there something trapped down there?


    : This is giving me major bad vibes. Be careful!


    Kijin and Raijuu moved closer, sensing my unease. They looked ready for anything, but even they seemed wary of the crystal and the strange energy emanating from it. I took a deep breath, forcing myself to stay calm.


    "Don''t worry, chat," I said, trying to sound confident. "I''m not planning on releasing anything. We''re just¡­ here to figure out what''s going on."


    The crystal''s pulse began to fade, its energy diminishing, leaving the chamber silent once more. Whatever had spoken, whatever ancient presence lurked within these floors, it was aware of me¡ªand I had the sense that this was only the beginning.


    With one last look at the crystal, I turned back to the passage, signaling for Kijin and Raijuu to follow. "Let''s keep moving. There''s more to discover down here."


    As we disappeared into the next corridor, the chat filled with a mixture of excitement and concern.


    : Forbidden Floors are legit terrifying. But this is the best stream ever.


    : Just stay safe, Tsukasa. We''re with you.


    : I can''t believe this is happening live¡­ This is going to be legendary.


    The path twisted and turned, the shadows growing deeper, more oppressive with every step. Whatever secrets lay hidden in the Forbidden Floors, I had a feeling we were only scratching the surface. But with my Shikigami by my side and the support of everyone watching, I was ready to face whatever waited in the darkness.

 Chapter 130 - 130: Echoes of an Ancient Power

    The path twisted and stretched on, each step taking us deeper into the unknown. The crystal''s presence still lingered in my mind¡ªa faint whisper I couldn''t shake, as though it had left a mark I couldn''t see.


    Kijin and Raijuu stayed close, their eyes sharp and alert. They were tense, more so than usual, as if sensing the same strangeness that I felt. This floor, this entire section of the dungeon¡­ it wasn''t like anything we''d encountered before.


    "All right, everyone," I murmured, glancing at the chat feed on my device. "We''re going even deeper. Whatever''s down here¡­ it''s watching us."


    The chat was alive with excitement and nervous energy.


    : Dude, this is insane! I feel like I''m watching a horror movie.


    : Keep going, Tsukasa! We''re right here with you!


    : Forbidden Floors have my heart racing. This isn''t like any other stream.


    Ahead of us, the passage opened into another chamber, its ceiling arching so high that I couldn''t see where it ended. Pale, bluish light flickered from clusters of crystals embedded in the walls, casting ghostly shadows that danced across the floor. In the center of the room stood a stone structure¡ªsomething like an altar, covered in markings similar to those on the crystal we''d seen earlier.


    I approached cautiously, keeping the camera trained on the altar for the viewers to see. As we got closer, I noticed faint symbols etched into the stone, lines that glowed with a soft, pulsing light.


    "Look at this, chat," I whispered, zooming in on the markings. "These symbols¡­ they''re the same as the ones on that crystal."


    : Those symbols are seriously ancient. This is next-level dungeon lore.


    : Tsukasa, can you feel any energy coming from it? Like with the crystal?


    : This place looks like it''s been abandoned for centuries¡­ What was it used for?


    I reached out, hovering my hand above the markings, feeling a faint hum beneath my palm. There was energy here, similar to the crystal but¡­ different, like it was part of something larger, something vast and ancient.


    Suddenly, a cold gust of air swept through the chamber, and the pulsing light from the symbols flickered, dimming before returning stronger than before. A whisper, soft and chilling, drifted through my mind, barely more than a breath.


    "Who¡­ dares¡­"


    I froze, glancing around, but there was no one else in the room¡ªjust me, Kijin, and Raijuu. The chat erupted in reaction.


    : Did you guys hear that? It sounded like someone''s voice¡­


    : I''m getting chills. What''s going on, Tsukasa?


    : This is like a ghost story come to life. Be careful!


    I took a deep breath, keeping my voice steady. "Yeah, I heard it too, chat. But there''s no one here. Whatever it is¡­ it''s connected to this altar."


    Kijin and Raijuu were on high alert, their bodies tense as they scanned the room. Raijuu let out a low growl, his gaze fixed on something just beyond the altar, his fur crackling with sparks.


    "Stay close," I murmured to them, moving forward. "Let''s see what''s hidden here."


    As I approached the altar, a faint glow appeared in the air above it¡ªa shifting, amorphous light that twisted and morphed, as though trying to take shape but unable to settle. My heart raced, and I could sense my Shikigami''s tension mounting.


    "What is that?" I muttered, focusing the camera on the glow. The chat was going wild with guesses and theories.


    : It''s like¡­ a spirit or an energy projection. Maybe a guardian?


    : That''s no ordinary dungeon phenomenon. It looks like something is trapped there.


    : Whatever it is, it doesn''t look friendly.


    The glow pulsed, growing stronger, and for a moment, I thought I could make out a face¡ªa vague, shadowy form that flickered in and out of sight. The whisper returned, louder this time, like an echo reverberating through the air.


    "You¡­ do not belong here¡­"


    A chill ran down my spine, and I stepped back instinctively, feeling the weight of those words settle over me. Whoever or whatever was speaking¡­ it wasn''t just a part of the dungeon. It felt ancient, powerful, and very much aware of our presence.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I whispered, keeping my voice steady. "Stay alert."


    But before I could take another step, the light above the altar flared, and the ground beneath us began to tremble. Cracks spidered across the floor, radiating out from the altar, as the entire chamber seemed to shift and warp, as though responding to some unseen force.


    The chat was in a frenzy, messages flying across the screen.


    : Tsukasa, get out of there! This is way too dangerous!


    : I think the dungeon''s reacting to you. Whatever you did, it''s making something mad!


    : Forbidden Floors don''t mess around. This is some serious stuff.


    The ground shook violently, and I struggled to keep my balance. Kijin and Raijuu braced themselves, their eyes fixed on the altar as a low, rumbling growl echoed through the chamber. And then, from the cracks in the floor, dark tendrils of shadow began to emerge, twisting and writhing like living things, coiling around the altar and stretching toward us.


    I took a step back, trying to assess the situation, but the tendrils were moving too fast, spreading across the floor like a web. I felt a cold, unyielding pressure pressing down on me, and I realized with a jolt that the altar wasn''t just an object¡ªit was a seal, holding something back.


    "All right, chat," I muttered, my voice tense. "Looks like we''re not alone down here."


    The tendrils surged forward, and Kijin leapt into action, his form blending with the shadows as he darted around the room, slashing at the dark tendrils with swift, precise strikes. Raijuu followed, unleashing bursts of lightning that crackled through the air, illuminating the chamber with each strike.


    The chat was exploding with reactions, a mixture of excitement and fear.


    : Kijin and Raijuu are amazing! They''re fighting shadows like pros.


    : Is it just me, or does it look like the shadows are regenerating?


    : This is bad. It''s like the altar is summoning these things to defend itself.


    Despite Kijin and Raijuu''s attacks, the tendrils continued to advance, coiling and twisting, each one regenerating almost as soon as it was struck down. I clenched my fists, my mind racing. This wasn''t going to be a straightforward fight¡ªwhatever was controlling these shadows was using the altar as a source of power.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfall back!" I called out, gesturing for them to regroup. They returned to my side, both of them breathing heavily, their eyes fixed on the altar as the tendrils continued to spread.


    "Chat," I said, my voice steady despite the tension. "I think we''re dealing with some kind of¡­ dungeon entity. Something that''s been sealed down here for a long time."


    : Is this some kind of boss fight? Like, a guardian or a spirit?


    : It''s gotta be protecting something important. What else could be worth locking up this deep?


    : Be careful, Tsukasa! This is way above anything you''ve faced before.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on me. This wasn''t just another dungeon. Whatever lay here¡­ it was beyond anything I''d encountered before.


    "Let''s try this again," I murmured, feeling the familiar surge of energy as I connected with Kijin and Raijuu, channeling our combined strength. "This time, we''re going to end it."


    Kijin moved forward, his form blending with the shadows, his strikes swift and precise as he aimed for the tendrils'' roots. Raijuu circled around, unleashing lightning bolts in rapid succession, each one aimed at the altar itself.


    The shadows writhed and twisted, but this time, our combined power was enough to push them back, forcing the tendrils to retreat. The glow above the altar flickered, growing weaker with each strike. S§×arch* The nov§×lF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The chat was going wild, cheering us on.


    : YES! They''re finally breaking through!


    : Kijin and Raijuu are unstoppable! Show that altar who''s boss!


    : Keep going! Whatever''s behind that seal, it''s weakening!


    With one final surge of energy, Raijuu launched a powerful burst of lightning directly at the center of the altar. The stone cracked, splintering beneath the force of the attack, and the shadows recoiled, dissolving into wisps of mist that faded into the air.


    I lowered my weapon, feeling the tension lift as the altar''s light faded, leaving the chamber in silence. The ground stopped shaking, and the oppressive energy that had filled the room began to dissipate.


    "Looks like¡­ we did it," I murmured, glancing at Kijin and Raijuu. They nodded, both of them visibly exhausted but victorious.


    The chat erupted in celebration.


    : THAT WAS INSANE! Best stream ever, Tsukasa!


    : Forbidden Floors are no joke, but you handled it like a pro.


    : I can''t believe we just witnessed that live. You''re a legend, Tsukasa!


    But as I turned to leave, I felt a faint pulse from the altar¡ªa final, lingering whisper that sent a chill down my spine.


    "This is only the beginning¡­"


    I stopped, my heart pounding as the words echoed in my mind. Whatever we had faced here, whatever power had been sealed in this place¡­ it wasn''t over.


    "Looks like we''re not done yet, chat," I said, managing a shaky smile. "Stick around. Things are just getting started."


    With Kijin and Raijuu by my side, I turned toward the next passage, ready to face whatever else lay hidden in the depths of the Forbidden Floors.

 Chapter 131 - 131: Depths of the Unknown

    We moved cautiously down the twisting corridor, the glow of the altar''s lingering energy fading behind us. My heart still pounded from the last encounter, the weight of those final whispered words¡ª


    "This is only the beginning¡­"


    ¡ªechoing in my mind. It was like something was waiting for us, anticipating our next move.


    "Thanks for sticking with me, chat," I said, glancing at the screen as the messages scrolled by. "This floor¡­ it''s different. More intense than any dungeon I''ve seen. Whatever''s down here, we''re going to figure it out together."


    The chat was alive with a mix of support and nervous excitement.


    : Tsukasa, we''re with you all the way! Let''s see what else this place has hidden.


    : Whatever you do, don''t let your guard down. This isn''t like the other floors.


    : I''m seriously on edge right now. The Forbidden Floors are a whole other level.


    Kijin moved ahead, his form blending with the shadows as he scouted the path. Raijuu stayed close to me, sparks crackling along his fur, his gaze sharp and alert. I kept the camera trained on the tunnel ahead, letting the viewers see every eerie twist and turn.


    The air grew colder as we descended further, and the walls seemed to close in, etched with even more intricate symbols and markings. These carvings weren''t just decoration¡ªthey felt deliberate, as if each symbol was a piece of a larger puzzle.


    "Look at these markings," I murmured, bringing the camera closer. "It''s almost like¡­ a story, maybe? Or a warning?"


    : They look ancient. What language is that? I don''t think I''ve ever seen anything like it.


    : It definitely feels like they''re telling a story. Maybe about what''s trapped here?


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. Those symbols don''t look friendly.


    I studied the symbols, trying to make sense of them. Lines and shapes converged, creating patterns that seemed almost alive, pulsing faintly with a strange, inner glow. As I traced my fingers over one of the symbols, a sudden rush of energy surged through me, filling my mind with fragmented images¡ªvisions of creatures, towering structures, shadows stretching across an endless horizon.


    I stumbled back, breaking contact, the images vanishing as quickly as they''d appeared. Kijin and Raijuu looked at me, both of them tense, sensing the disturbance.


    "Just¡­ some flashes," I muttered, steadying myself. "Something ancient is here. It''s almost like these symbols are¡­ memories."


    : Did you see something? You looked totally zoned out for a second.


    : This is way creepier than a normal dungeon. What did you see?


    : I''ve got goosebumps just watching this. Be careful, Tsukasa!


    I nodded, catching my breath. "It''s nothing concrete¡ªjust flashes of something¡­ old. Like memories imprinted on these walls. Whatever''s down here, it''s connected to these symbols."


    We continued, the passage narrowing as we descended further. The flickering lights from crystals embedded in the walls cast distorted shadows, making it difficult to tell what was real and what was just an illusion. Raijuu''s fur bristled, his gaze fixed on something up ahead, and I tightened my grip on my weapon, ready for whatever might come next.


    Suddenly, the passage opened into a cavernous chamber, its ceiling towering high above, disappearing into darkness. At the center of the room was a massive, circular pool, its surface as still as glass, reflecting the eerie glow of the crystals lining the walls.


    "Chat, check this out," I whispered, panning the camera over the room. "This place¡­ it''s like a sanctuary, or maybe¡­ a resting place?"


    : That pool gives me the creeps. What do you think it''s for?


    : Is it just me, or does it feel like something''s watching you?


    : Forbidden Floors, where the danger is in every shadow¡­ Tsukasa, keep your guard up!


    I approached the edge of the pool, peering into the depths. The water was so clear I could see straight to the bottom, where more symbols were etched into the stone, glowing faintly. But there was something else down there¡ªan object, half-buried in the silt, glinting faintly in the dim light.


    "Kijin, Raijuu, stay close," I murmured, reaching down to brush the silt away from the object. It was cold to the touch, metallic, with engravings that matched the symbols on the walls. As I lifted it, a faint pulse echoed through the room, and a whisper drifted through my mind.


    "You have awakened us¡­"


    The voice was different this time, deeper, resonating with a strength that made my skin prickle. I froze, feeling the weight of that voice settle over me, ancient and vast, as though the dungeon itself were speaking.


    The chat erupted in a frenzy.


    : Did anyone else hear that? It sounded like it was speaking directly to us!


    : This isn''t just a dungeon anymore. It feels¡­ alive.


    : Tsukasa, put that thing back! Whatever it is, it''s not worth the risk.


    But I couldn''t bring myself to let go. The object pulsed in my hand, filling my mind with fragments of memories¡ªimages of creatures, cities, and battles long past. Whatever this was, it held knowledge, secrets that no one else had seen.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I whispered, turning to them. "We need to understand what this is. But stay ready¡­ something is definitely here with us."


    As I examined the object, the ground beneath us began to tremble. Cracks spidered across the floor, and the water in the pool began to ripple, small waves lapping against the edges as the room filled with a low, rumbling growl. The symbols along the walls flared to life, casting the chamber in a harsh, unearthly light.


    The chat was going wild.


    : Tsukasa, GET OUT OF THERE!


    : This is bad. It''s like the whole dungeon''s waking up.


    : I have a really, really bad feeling about this.


    I took a step back, feeling the pressure in the room increase, as though something were pressing down on us from all sides. Kijin and Raijuu moved to flank me, their eyes fixed on the pool as the water began to bubble and churn, a dark shape rising from its depths.


    The figure that emerged was massive, a creature unlike any I''d ever seen¡ªits form shifting and morphing, as though it were made of smoke and shadow, its eyes glowing with a cold, piercing light. I felt the weight of its gaze settle on me, and a chill ran down my spine.


    "You¡­ dare disturb my rest¡­"


    The words reverberated through the chamber, filling the air with an oppressive force. I could barely breathe under the weight of that voice, each syllable pressing down on me like a physical weight.


    "All right, chat," I murmured, my voice barely steady. "Looks like we''ve found¡­ something ancient. Let''s see what it''s made of."


    The chat was a mix of fear and exhilaration.


    : Tsukasa, be careful! This is like a boss fight from hell.


    : You''re literally facing an ancient god. This is insane!


    : Go, Tsukasa! We''re with you every step of the way!


    Kijin darted forward, his form blending with the shadows as he struck, his claws aiming for the creature''s shifting mass. Raijuu followed, his body crackling with electricity as he launched a powerful bolt straight at the creature''s head.


    The creature barely flinched, absorbing the attacks as though they were nothing. It twisted, its form flickering and reforming as it lashed out, sending a shockwave through the room that forced us back.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfall back!" I called, regrouping as the creature advanced, its gaze fixed on me with a cold, unyielding focus.


    The chat was going wild with reactions.


    : It''s adapting to their attacks! This thing is seriously powerful.


    : Tsukasa, how are you going to stop it? It''s like nothing affects it!


    : I''ve never seen anything like this in a dungeon. Forbidden Floors are insane.


    I tightened my grip, feeling a surge of determination. "All right," I muttered, glancing at my Shikigami. "If we''re going to beat this thing, we''ll need to outsmart it."


    Kijin and Raijuu nodded, their eyes fierce and ready. We moved in sync, Kijin slipping into the shadows, launching feints and diversions while Raijuu circled around, his lightning strikes coordinated with precision.


    The creature twisted, trying to track our movements, but our combined efforts began to take effect, forcing it to shift and adapt with each attack. I watched its movements, analyzing its reactions, looking for any sign of a weakness.


    Finally, I saw it¡ªa flicker, a momentary instability in its form each time Raijuu''s lightning struck. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but it was there.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªfocus on that spot!" I directed, signaling to the weak point. They both responded immediately, their attacks honing in on the creature''s vulnerable area. With a final surge of energy, Raijuu launched a concentrated bolt of lightning, striking the weak point dead-on.


    The creature let out a guttural roar, its form shuddering and twisting as it struggled to hold itself together. I took a deep breath, channeling my energy into a final, decisive strike, aiming straight for the heart of the creature''s form.


    The impact sent a shockwave through the chamber, and the creature dissolved, its form dissipating into wisps of shadow that faded into the air. The room fell silent, the oppressive energy lifting as the creature vanished.


    The chat exploded with cheers and celebration.


    : HE DID IT! Tsukasa, you''re a legend!


    : That was the most intense fight I''ve ever seen. Forbidden Floors are no joke.


    : Kijin and Raijuu are absolute beasts! That teamwork was unreal.


    I let out a breath, feeling a mix of exhaustion and relief wash over me. Kijin and Raijuu returned to my side, both of them visibly drained but triumphant. I turned back to the altar, the object still clutched in my hand.


    "Looks like¡­ we''ve uncovered something big," I murmured, glancing at the chat. "This is just the beginning, everyone. There''s more down here, and I intend to find out exactly what it is."


    S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 132 - 132: Secrets Beneath the Surface

    We moved cautiously, the faint echoes of the defeated entity still reverberating through the silence. The room felt different now, the pressure lifting slightly, but I could sense something lingering in the shadows. Kijin and Raijuu were tense, their gazes sharp and alert as we advanced further down the narrow passage.


    The tunnel twisted, opening into a smaller chamber that was eerily quiet. Patches of dim, phosphorescent moss clung to the walls, casting a ghostly light that only added to the unnerving atmosphere. I held up the mysterious object we''d found by the altar, examining its intricate engravings more closely. The symbols were ancient, almost alien in design, but as I stared at them, they seemed to shift, forming patterns I felt like I recognized¡­ yet couldn''t place.


    "Look at this, chat," I whispered, tilting the object toward the camera. "It''s got markings like the ones we saw on the altar. They keep changing¡ªalmost like they''re alive."


    : Those symbols are giving me the creeps¡­ They don''t look natural.


    : Does anyone else feel like they''re looking at something they shouldn''t?


    : This is ancient dungeon lore! You''re probably the first to ever see this.


    Just as I was examining it, the air grew colder, and I felt a strange pull, like an invisible thread connecting me to the object. Kijin sniffed the air, his gaze shifting around the chamber as though sensing something just out of sight.


    "Kijin?" I asked quietly, watching as he crouched low, his eyes narrowing. Raijuu''s fur bristled, small arcs of lightning dancing across his coat.


    A faint hum filled the air, low and rhythmic, building in intensity. It felt like a pulse, almost in sync with the object I was holding. My skin prickled as I felt the energy shift, coalescing in the center of the room, and slowly, shapes began to emerge from the shadows¡ªfaint, translucent figures, barely visible but radiating an intense, unsettling energy.


    The chat was blowing up, a mix of awe and fear.


    : Are those¡­ spirits? What are we looking at?


    : I swear I saw a face in that shadow. This is unreal!


    : Be careful, Tsukasa! Those things don''t look friendly.


    The figures moved slowly, their forms shifting and distorting as though they were caught between this world and another. They made no sound, but their presence was oppressive, filling the room with a sense of dread that settled heavily over me.


    I took a step back, gesturing for Kijin and Raijuu to hold their positions. The figures drifted closer, their eyes fixed on the object in my hand. One of them extended a thin, skeletal hand, pointing at the object, and a voice whispered in my mind, faint but clear.


    "Return¡­ the seal¡­"


    A chill shot through me. Return the seal? I glanced down at the object, realizing with a jolt that it might be more than just a piece of dungeon lore. It was a key¡ªa fragment of something ancient, something powerful.


    I tightened my grip, resisting the pull of their words. "Chat, these things¡­ they want this object back. It''s like it belongs to them."


    : Don''t give it to them! You found it fair and square!


    : What if that thing is keeping something locked away? Maybe you should listen¡­


    : Tsukasa, we''re with you. Do what you think is best! S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The figures drifted closer, their forms growing more defined, and I could make out hollow eyes and elongated limbs. Their whispers grew louder, layering over each other, filling the chamber with a cacophony of voices that seemed to resonate in my bones.


    "Release¡­ us¡­"


    Kijin growled, baring his fangs as he positioned himself protectively between me and the nearest figure. Raijuu''s fur crackled with energy, ready to strike, but the figures didn''t seem to notice. Their gazes remained fixed on the object, their eyes empty but pleading.


    Without warning, one of the figures reached out, its skeletal fingers brushing against the edge of the object. A sharp jolt of energy surged through me, and for a split second, my vision went dark. Images flashed through my mind¡ªancient stone walls, flickering torchlight, and a massive door bound in chains.


    The vision faded, leaving me unsteady. I took a deep breath, glancing at the chat as it filled with concerned messages.


    : Tsukasa, are you okay? You just froze for a second.


    : Did anyone else see that? His face looked like he was somewhere else.


    : Something isn''t right. That object is cursed or something.


    I shook my head, regaining my focus. "I''m all right, chat. Just¡­ saw something. I think this seal is connected to whatever''s trapped down here. But if it''s keeping something locked away, then taking it might be a problem."


    The figures withdrew slightly, as if sensing my hesitation, their forms blurring at the edges. But the air grew colder, and a heavy, oppressive energy filled the room, pressing down on me from all sides. I knew that whatever was bound here was no ordinary dungeon creature. This was something ancient, something that might be better left undisturbed.


    I tightened my grip on the object, the faint hum still vibrating through my hand. "We''re moving forward, everyone. But if things get out of control, I''ll need to make a quick call on this."


    : We trust you, Tsukasa. Just be careful.


    : Forbidden Floors are no joke. Don''t take any chances.


    : This is history in the making! Just don''t get yourself hurt.


    I nodded, pocketing the object as we continued down the passage. The figures faded into the shadows, their whispers dying away, but I could still feel their presence, lingering just beyond sight. The tunnel twisted and turned, the air growing colder with each step, and soon we arrived at another chamber¡ªthis one vast and cavernous, the ceiling stretching high above, disappearing into darkness.


    In the center of the room stood a colossal stone structure, like an altar but larger, its surface covered in runes and markings that glowed faintly in the dark. Chains hung from the ceiling, thick and heavy, draping down to bind a massive, sealed door set into the far wall.


    My heart pounded as I approached, keeping the camera trained on the door. "Chat¡­ I think we found the heart of the Forbidden Floors. This door¡­ it''s locked, chained up tight. Whatever''s behind it must be something powerful."


    The chat erupted with speculation and excitement.


    : That door is giving me chills. What could they be keeping back there?


    : This feels like the final level of a horror game¡­ I don''t know if I want you to open it.


    : This could be the key to everything, Tsukasa! You''re so close.


    Kijin prowled around the edges of the room, his eyes fixed on the door, while Raijuu sniffed the air, his fur standing on end. I moved closer to the altar, examining the runes. They pulsed faintly, the energy feeling ancient, as if it had been here for countless centuries.


    As I reached out to touch one of the symbols, a sharp pulse of energy radiated from the altar, and a voice echoed through the chamber, deep and resonant.


    "You should not be here¡­"


    I froze, feeling the weight of the words settle over me. The voice was different from before¡ªmore authoritative, like a warning. My mind raced as I pulled my hand back, feeling the residual energy pulsing through my fingers.


    The chat was blowing up with messages.


    : Did you hear that? It sounded like it was warning you.


    : Tsukasa, this is intense. Maybe¡­ don''t touch anything else?


    : Whatever''s behind that door doesn''t want visitors. Be careful!


    I steadied my breathing, considering my options. This door, this altar, everything pointed to something ancient, something dangerous. And yet¡­ I couldn''t bring myself to leave. Not without understanding what was truly hidden here.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I whispered, signaling for them to stay alert. "Let''s be cautious."


    With my mind racing, I took another step toward the altar.

 Chapter 133 - 133: The Sealed Legacy

    The chamber seemed to grow colder, and each step forward made my skin prickle. The door was bound by thick, heavy chains, and every link glowed faintly, casting a dim light across the cavern. The engravings on the altar pulsed in sync with the chained door, and a steady, deep vibration filled the air, almost like the beat of a sleeping giant''s heart.


    "Chat, this place¡­ it''s something else," I whispered, the eerie stillness sinking in. "It feels like we''re standing at the edge of something huge, something that''s been buried for a long time."


    The chat was buzzing with anxious excitement.


    : Don''t go any closer! I can''t shake the feeling that this is a trap.


    : What if that door holds something worse than anything you''ve faced?


    : This isn''t just a dungeon anymore. It''s a tomb.


    Kijin and Raijuu flanked me, their eyes never leaving the door. Kijin''s growl was low, almost a rumble, as if warning something in the darkness that he was ready. Raijuu''s fur bristled, faint arcs of lightning dancing along his body as he prepared for whatever might come next.


    Just as I stepped closer to the door, a sudden wave of energy surged through the room, rattling the chains and sending tremors across the floor. The whispers returned, louder, overlapping each other until they formed a single voice¡ªa deep, resonant tone that filled every corner of the chamber.


    "You seek knowledge that should remain buried¡­"


    My breath hitched as the words echoed around me, filling the air with a foreboding weight. This was no ordinary voice. It was layered, ancient, as though it had existed for millennia. The chat erupted in shock. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : THAT VOICE! It sounded like a thousand voices at once!


    : This is the scariest thing I''ve ever seen in a dungeon. Tsukasa, don''t go further.


    : Whatever''s behind that door doesn''t want you to leave. Be careful.


    I took a steadying breath, fighting the urge to turn back. "Knowledge buried for a reason, huh?" I murmured to myself, staring at the door. "Well, sometimes we need to uncover the past to understand the present."


    The voice returned, softer but clearer, each word heavy with intent.


    "Then you shall witness¡­ the beginning."


    Before I could react, the chains around the door rattled violently, their glow intensifying until the entire chamber was bathed in an eerie, blue light. The symbols etched across the altar flared up, each one blazing with an intensity that made my skin prickle.


    The ground trembled as the chains began to loosen, sliding off the door one by one, clattering to the ground in a metallic cascade. Kijin''s growl grew louder, and Raijuu shifted, his muscles tensing as he prepared for what was about to emerge.


    "Chat¡­ this isn''t just a dungeon boss," I muttered, my voice tight with apprehension. "We''re dealing with something¡­ older. Something that might not belong here at all."


    The chat was buzzing with fear and speculation.


    : Are you sure you''re ready for this, Tsukasa? This feels like it''s beyond EX-rank.


    : Those chains were holding something back. If they''re breaking, it means whatever''s in there is coming out¡­


    : This might be the first time I''m actually scared for you. Stay sharp!


    The last chain fell to the ground with a deafening crash, and a moment of silence hung over the chamber, thick with anticipation. Then, slowly, the door creaked open, revealing a dark, impenetrable void within. The shadows shifted, coalescing into a form¡ªsomething humanoid yet distorted, a figure wrapped in darkness with eyes that glowed like embers.


    "I am the Keeper of the Forgotten,"


    it intoned, its voice filling the air, resonant and chilling.


    "You, who dare disturb my rest, shall bear the weight of my wrath."


    The chat exploded with reactions as the figure stepped out, each of its movements fluid yet unsettling, as though reality itself warped around it.


    : TSUKASA, THIS IS IT! THIS IS WHAT THE FLOOR WAS HIDING!


    : Keeper of the Forgotten¡­ that title sounds ominous. Be careful!


    : This is beyond anything you''ve fought before. Don''t underestimate it.


    Kijin and Raijuu positioned themselves on either side of me, their eyes locked on the Keeper. I could feel their tension, their readiness to strike, but I knew this fight would be unlike any we''d encountered. The Keeper''s gaze swept over us, cold and calculating, as if it could see through every layer of our defenses.


    Without warning, the Keeper raised a hand, and the air around us thickened, pressing down like an invisible weight. My knees buckled, and even Kijin and Raijuu staggered, their usual strength seeming to drain in the presence of this overwhelming force.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªstay sharp," I managed, gritting my teeth against the pressure. The Keeper''s power was palpable, ancient and potent, and I knew we''d have to play this carefully.


    The Keeper moved forward, its form shifting and flickering like a shadow cast by an unsteady flame. It lifted its hand again, sending a wave of darkness surging toward us. Kijin darted to the side, his movements swift as he avoided the attack, while Raijuu countered with a burst of lightning, the bolt crackling as it struck the Keeper''s form.


    The lightning hit, illuminating the chamber for a split second, but instead of recoiling, the Keeper absorbed the energy, its eyes glowing brighter as it advanced. My heart pounded as I realized that this creature was not only resilient but able to consume whatever energy we threw at it.


    The chat was going wild, messages pouring in.


    : It just absorbed Raijuu''s lightning! This thing is on another level.


    : How can you beat something that grows stronger with each attack?


    : This might be the first time I''m actually scared for Tsukasa¡­ This isn''t looking good.


    I clenched my fists, watching the Keeper''s every movement. This wasn''t a battle of brute force¡ªit would require precision, strategy, and restraint. Kijin and Raijuu regrouped, their gazes fixed on the creature as they awaited my signal.


    "Okay, new plan," I muttered, thinking quickly. "We can''t rely on direct attacks. We''ll need to find another way to weaken it."


    The Keeper moved again, its shadowy form twisting as it raised both hands, summoning tendrils of darkness that snaked across the ground, reaching out to ensnare us. Kijin leapt into action, dodging the tendrils with fluid grace, while Raijuu darted forward, his movements blurring as he narrowly avoided being caught.


    I watched closely, noticing that each time the Keeper''s tendrils touched the ground, the symbols etched into the stone pulsed faintly, as if reacting to the creature''s energy. An idea sparked in my mind.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªtry to drive it toward the altar!" I called, my voice steady. "We need to see if those symbols have any effect on it."


    The chat caught onto my plan, the messages filling the screen with support and tension.


    : Yes! The altar! Maybe it''s a binding point or something that can weaken it.


    : Genius move, Tsukasa! Use the environment against it!


    : This is getting intense. I don''t think my heart can take it.


    Kijin and Raijuu shifted, their movements strategic as they worked together to herd the Keeper toward the altar. Kijin struck with swift, calculated blows, each one forcing the Keeper back a step, while Raijuu launched a series of feints, his lightning striking the ground to create diversions.


    The Keeper seemed unfazed at first, but as it neared the altar, I noticed a faint flicker in its form, a hesitation in its movements. The symbols on the altar began to glow brighter, reacting to the creature''s proximity, and the air grew colder, the pressure intensifying.


    "Chat, I think we''re onto something," I murmured, adrenaline surging as the plan started to take shape. "This altar¡­ it''s affecting the Keeper somehow."


    : The symbols are lighting up! This has to be the key!


    : It''s working! Keep pushing it back, Tsukasa!


    : This is like watching an epic boss fight. Don''t let up!


    With one final push, Kijin and Raijuu drove the Keeper back until it stood directly in front of the altar. The symbols flared to life, casting the chamber in an intense, blinding light, and the Keeper recoiled, its form flickering erratically as though it were struggling to hold itself together.


    The air was thick with energy, and I could feel the weight of the altar''s power pressing down on the Keeper, forcing it to its knees. For the first time, the creature''s gaze faltered, its expression shifting from cold indifference to something that almost resembled fear.


    "This¡­ cannot¡­ be¡­"


    The voice was fractured, its resonance faltering as the light from the altar grew stronger, enveloping the Keeper in a cocoon of energy. I watched, heart pounding, as the creature''s form began to dissipate, its body unraveling like smoke caught in a powerful gust of wind.


    The chat was in a frenzy, cheering and speculating as the Keeper faded away.


    : You did it! That was unreal!


    : I can''t believe that worked. Tsukasa, you''re a genius!


    : This is history in the making! Forbidden Floors conquered!


    As the last remnants of the Keeper vanished, the chamber fell silent, the oppressive energy lifting. Kijin and Raijuu relaxed, their tension easing as they returned to my side. I exhaled, feeling the weight of the encounter settle over me.


    In the aftermath, I glanced at the object I''d taken from the earlier chamber, its engravings now glowing faintly, as though it had been activated by the encounter. Whatever lay deeper within the Forbidden Floors, I knew we''d only begun to scratch the surface.


    4o

 Chapter 134 - 134: Echoes of a Forgotten Past

    The silence following the Keeper''s defeat felt unnaturally heavy, as though the entire dungeon was holding its breath. The air had shifted, as if the energy trapped here for centuries had been released, leaving behind a strange emptiness. Kijin and Raijuu stood by my side, both of them visibly exhausted, but alert. I took a moment to catch my breath, my eyes drifting down to the object in my hand. S§×ar?h the n??el Fire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Its faint glow had intensified, the symbols shifting and pulsing with an unfamiliar rhythm, as though awakening in response to the Keeper''s departure. A small, almost imperceptible hum vibrated through my fingertips, filling my mind with fragments of images and whispers that felt like distant memories¡ªhints of a story buried in time.


    The chat was alive with excitement and anticipation.


    : You did it, Tsukasa! That was the most insane battle yet!


    : This whole floor feels different now. Like you broke a seal or something.


    : What''s going on with that object? It''s glowing more than before!


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the object in my hand. "Whatever we unlocked¡­ it isn''t over. This object feels like it''s¡­ guiding us somewhere."


    Ahead of us, a narrow pathway opened up in the wall where the Keeper had fallen, revealing a dark tunnel lined with even more intricate symbols. They glowed faintly, as if inviting us to follow. The air inside the tunnel felt ancient and cold, laced with a presence that was at once both eerie and compelling.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, nodding toward the passage. They moved cautiously, their eyes flicking over every shadow, every faint glow along the walls. The further we ventured down the tunnel, the stronger the object''s hum became, resonating with the symbols that lined the walls.


    "Chat," I whispered, adjusting the camera to capture the strange, shifting light, "it feels like we''re being led somewhere. This entire place¡­ it''s reacting to the Keeper''s defeat."


    : Those symbols on the walls look different. They seem¡­ alive?


    : Is this like the next level of the dungeon? It feels like we''re stepping into forbidden history.


    : I have a bad feeling about this. But I can''t look away.


    The passageway eventually opened into another large chamber, and the sight that awaited us took my breath away. Massive stone tablets lined the walls, each one carved with scenes of ancient battles, mythical creatures, and figures dressed in armor unlike any I''d seen. At the center of the room stood a towering stone statue¡ªa figure shrouded in a cloak, with a sword held upright, its blade embedded in the ground.


    It looked like a warrior, a guardian, frozen in time. The statue''s eyes were made of dark crystals, and they glowed faintly, casting an eerie light over the chamber. The object in my hand pulsed stronger, resonating with the statue as if it recognized something in it.


    The chat filled with awe and speculation.


    : That statue¡­ it looks like some kind of ancient guardian!


    : The carvings look like they''re telling a story. Maybe about this warrior?


    : This is dungeon lore on a whole new level. You''re uncovering secrets no one else has seen.


    I approached the statue, holding the object out in front of me. As I did, the crystal eyes of the statue flared to life, casting a deep, ominous glow over the chamber. The hum from the object grew louder, filling the air with a vibration that resonated through my bones. I could feel something¡ªan energy, an awareness¡ªawakening in response to the object.


    Without warning, the ground trembled, and a voice echoed through the chamber, low and reverberating with age.


    "You¡­ who hold the seal¡­ have you come to unlock the legacy of the Forgotten?"


    The words hit me like a wave, each syllable weighted with a sense of purpose and finality. The chat was in a frenzy, reacting to the statue''s sudden awakening.


    : Did the statue just speak?! This is getting crazier by the second.


    : Unlock the legacy? What does that even mean?


    : Tsukasa, this is beyond anything we''ve seen. Be careful!


    My grip tightened on the object, my mind racing. "Yes," I whispered, barely able to keep my voice steady. "I¡­ I don''t know what legacy this is, but I want to understand."


    The statue''s eyes glowed brighter, and a deep rumble filled the chamber as the carvings on the stone tablets lit up, each scene illuminated in sequence as if telling a story. Images flickered across the walls¡ªbattles against monstrous creatures, figures wielding weapons of unimaginable power, ancient cities rising and falling.


    As the light reached the final tablet, it revealed an image that made my blood run cold: a figure, cloaked in shadows, standing before a massive door covered in chains¡ªthe same door I had seen in the earlier chambers, the very one that had held back the Keeper.


    "The Forgotten¡­"


    the voice intoned, softer now, filled with something that sounded like sorrow.


    "They are not monsters¡­ but remnants of a past that was erased¡­ sealed away by those who feared them."


    The words resonated through the chamber, filling the air with a sense of tragedy and loss. I glanced at the chat, catching fragments of their reactions.


    : The Forgotten aren''t monsters? They were¡­ sealed away by someone?


    : This is insane. It''s like you''re uncovering ancient history!


    : I have a feeling that whatever did this¡­ it wasn''t good.


    The hum from the object intensified, and a faint glow appeared in the center of the room¡ªa swirling mass of light and shadow that seemed to coalesce into an image, a vision of a city covered in darkness, its streets filled with figures much like the Keeper. It was a memory, a glimpse into a world that had been erased.


    The statue''s voice grew softer, almost wistful. >


    "These were once our cities, our people¡­ they held powers that others feared. And so¡­ they were silenced."


    I stood frozen, feeling the weight of the history that had been buried in these depths. Whatever this place was, it held the memories of a civilization that had been cast aside, locked away in the dark. And I had just disturbed their slumber.


    Kijin and Raijuu remained alert, their gazes flicking between the statue and the faint images on the walls. The light from the tablets faded, and the vision disappeared, leaving only the statue''s glowing eyes fixed on me.


    "If you wish to proceed, know this¡­ the path you walk is one of danger and sacrifice. The Forgotten do not welcome intruders, nor do they seek redemption."


    The words echoed ominously, a final warning before the chamber fell silent. The object in my hand pulsed one last time, and I felt its weight settle, as if waiting for a decision.


    The chat was buzzing with emotions, their messages filling the screen in a flurry of excitement, fear, and determination.


    : This is it, Tsukasa. You''re unlocking something no one else has ever seen.


    : The Forgotten¡­ sounds like there''s more than one. This might be a bigger journey than you thought.


    : If you go forward, there might be no turning back. But we''re with you all the way!


    I took a deep breath, the weight of the decision settling over me. This wasn''t just about finding treasure or fighting monsters. It was about uncovering a legacy, a forgotten history that had been hidden for centuries. There were risks¡ªunimaginable ones¡ªbut the pull of understanding, of seeing this story through to the end, was too strong to ignore.


    Silently, I signaled for Kijin and Raijuu to follow. Whatever lay ahead, we would face it together.

 Chapter 135 - 135: The Path of Shadows

    The tunnel leading from the statue''s chamber was darker than the others, the air heavy with a foreboding presence. The symbols on the walls grew denser, each one flickering as though responding to our presence. Every step felt weighted, like I was treading through memories too ancient to be remembered, yet still clinging to this place with relentless resolve.


    Kijin prowled silently beside me, his body tense, while Raijuu''s fur crackled with small arcs of electricity. I kept my grip firm on the object in my hand, feeling its faint hum echo through me. This wasn''t just a tool or a relic anymore¡ªit was a key, a guide through the darkness.


    "Chat," I whispered, my voice barely audible, "we''re heading deeper. This path¡­ it feels different, like it''s leading us somewhere that hasn''t been disturbed in a long, long time."


    The chat lit up with a mix of concern and excitement.


    : Tsukasa, this is intense. Just watching is giving me chills.


    : The symbols are like nothing I''ve ever seen. This isn''t just a dungeon anymore.


    : Stay sharp! I don''t trust this place.


    The deeper we went, the stronger the pull became, as if the object was guiding me toward something. The tunnel finally opened up into a massive, circular chamber with walls stretching far beyond the light of my torch. At the center of the room stood a dark, monolithic structure, surrounded by pillars carved with intricate symbols that glowed faintly in the dark. They seemed to shift and change, as though alive.


    The chat reacted instantly.


    : That structure¡­ it''s like a giant seal or altar!


    : This is on a whole other level. I can''t believe what I''m seeing.


    : I feel like we''re about to uncover something world-changing.


    I took a tentative step forward, feeling the weight of the room press down on me. Every instinct screamed caution, but the pull from the object was relentless, urging me closer. As I approached the monolith, the symbols on the pillars began to glow brighter, their light illuminating faint images carved into the stone¡ªa series of scenes that seemed to tell a story.


    "What do you make of this, chat?" I whispered, focusing the camera on the carvings. "It''s like a timeline¡­ something about the Forgotten, maybe?"


    : It looks like a history of the Forgotten. I see figures and cities¡­ and that same cloaked figure.


    : I think it''s showing their rise, their powers¡­ and their imprisonment.


    : Tsukasa, I don''t know if this is wise. You''re dealing with ancient powers here.


    As I traced my hand over the carvings, a chill shot through my fingers. Images flooded my mind¡ªscenes of a civilization thriving, its people wielding strange and powerful abilities. The Forgotten weren''t just monsters; they were once a proud people, their powers feared by those who eventually sealed them away.


    Suddenly, a deep, resonant hum filled the air, and the ground beneath us trembled. The light from the pillars intensified, and a low voice echoed through the chamber.


    "You¡­ who hold the key¡­ do you wish to know the truth?"


    My heart pounded as the words filled the air, resonating with an ancient authority. Kijin and Raijuu tensed, their eyes fixed on the monolith as the symbols pulsed in sync with the voice.


    The chat was alive with reactions, a mix of awe and warning.


    : The truth? This feels like a point of no return¡­


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. Sometimes, the truth is buried for a reason.


    : We''re with you. Whatever happens, we''re in this together.


    I took a deep breath, my voice steady. "Yes. I want to understand. I want to know what really happened to the Forgotten."


    The monolith''s glow intensified, casting the entire chamber in an unearthly light. Shadows danced along the walls, forming images that shifted and twisted, creating a vision that seemed to pull me in. It was as if the very stones of this place were speaking, revealing a tale that had been hidden for centuries.


    "In ages past, the Forgotten were once revered, their powers unmatched, their wisdom sought by all. But as their influence grew, so did the fear of those who envied them. They were betrayed, cast into darkness, their legacy erased, their names forgotten." sea??h th§× N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The vision shifted, showing scenes of betrayal and conflict, of allies turning into enemies, of powers too great to control. Figures in armor, wielding magic and strange devices, fought against the Forgotten, sealing them away in a prison designed to erase them from history.


    The chat was awestruck, each message pouring in with urgency.


    : They were betrayed¡­ this is heartbreaking.


    : It wasn''t a dungeon¡ªthey were imprisoned here! This changes everything.


    : Tsukasa, you''re uncovering something huge. This isn''t just about exploration anymore.


    The light faded, leaving a heavy silence in the room. I let the weight of the story settle over me, the realization of what we''d just uncovered filling me with a mix of awe and dread.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, glancing at them. "We''ve been walking through a grave¡­ a memory of a civilization that was wiped from history."


    Raijuu''s ears twitched, his gaze shifting to the shadows that seemed to gather around us, more dense and alive than before. Kijin''s eyes were sharp, his muscles tense, as if readying for an attack.


    Before I could react, a figure stepped out from the shadows¡ªa cloaked form, its face obscured, its presence radiating a sense of quiet menace. The chat froze as the figure raised its head, revealing eyes that glowed with a faint, unnatural light.


    "You have seen our story, bearer of the key. Do you seek to finish what they started¡­ or do you wish to undo their wrongs?"


    The figure''s voice was calm, but there was an edge to it, a lingering anger beneath the surface. I could feel the weight of the question pressing down on me, like the entire fate of this ancient people rested on my answer.


    The chat filled with conflicting messages, each viewer voicing their own opinions.


    : Undo the wrongs! They deserve justice after everything they went through.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This might be more dangerous than you think.


    : I don''t know if messing with ancient history is a good idea¡­ but I trust you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the object in my hand hum with energy. "I¡­ I don''t know if I can undo the past, but I want to understand. If there''s a way to right what happened, I want to know."


    The figure regarded me silently, its eyes narrowing. Then, with a slow, deliberate movement, it reached out, its hand hovering over the object in my grasp. The air grew colder, and the shadows thickened, pressing in from all sides as the figure''s touch connected with the object.


    A rush of energy surged through me, and my vision went dark. I was standing on the edge of a vast city, its towers and spires reaching toward a darkened sky. Figures moved through the streets, their faces obscured, their forms shifting like smoke. They were the Forgotten¡ªa people stripped of their identities, condemned to an existence hidden from the world.


    The voice returned, softer this time, filled with sorrow.


    "We do not seek vengeance. We seek remembrance. If you carry our legacy forward, if you tell our story, then our silence will end."


    The vision faded, and I was back in the chamber, the figure still before me, its gaze steady. I felt the weight of the object in my hand, as if it were a piece of their memory, entrusted to me.


    The chat was silent, as if everyone was holding their breath, waiting for my response.


    "I understand," I whispered, my voice filled with a newfound resolve. "I''ll carry your story. I''ll make sure that the Forgotten aren''t forgotten anymore."


    The figure''s eyes softened, a faint, almost imperceptible smile appearing on its shadowed face. The light around us dimmed, and the figure began to dissolve, its form fading into the shadows.


    "Thank you, bearer of the key. Our legacy rests with you."


    The room fell silent, the only sound the faint hum of the object in my hand. The chamber felt different now¡ªemptied of its ancient burdens, its secrets finally shared.


    The chat came alive, messages flooding the screen with words of support, awe, and determination.


    : You did it, Tsukasa. You gave them what they wanted.


    : This was more than a dungeon raid. This was a journey through history.


    : We''re with you. Whatever comes next, we''re ready.


    I glanced at Kijin and Raijuu, both of them watching me with a quiet understanding. This wasn''t just another dungeon floor, and I wasn''t just another explorer. I was now the keeper of their story, their final hope for remembrance.


    We turned to leave the chamber, the weight of the Forgotten''s legacy resting on my shoulders as we stepped into the darkness once more.

 Chapter 136 - 136: Echoes in the Dark

    The silence lingered as we stepped out of the chamber, leaving the monolith and the visions of the Forgotten behind. But their presence still clung to the air, their whispers echoing in my mind, filling each step with a new sense of weight. The light from the object I held had dimmed, as if content now that its message had been received, but it still pulsed faintly, a steady rhythm that seemed to guide us deeper.


    The chat was buzzing with reactions, their excitement tempered by the gravity of what we''d just uncovered.


    : Tsukasa, that was incredible. I can''t believe you''re carrying the legacy of the Forgotten.


    : You''re basically like an ancient historian now. This is huge.


    : It feels like something has changed in the dungeon. Like it''s watching you.


    I tightened my grip on the object, the weight of the Forgotten''s final words lingering in my mind. They hadn''t wanted vengeance; they had wanted remembrance. To carry their story forward, to make sure they weren''t erased from history, was now part of my journey. Kijin and Raijuu stayed close, their usual energy subdued as if they too felt the somber presence left behind by the Forgotten.


    The passage we followed twisted and narrowed, leading into the heart of the Forbidden Floors. Strange carvings adorned the walls, spiraling and shifting in patterns that seemed to move even when I stood still. The path ahead was shrouded in darkness, yet the faint hum from the object gave me a sense of direction.


    "Everyone," I murmured, my voice just a whisper, "we''re heading further in. Whatever''s down here¡­ it feels like it''s watching us."


    The chat was a mix of awe and concern.


    : You''re really going deeper? This floor is a whole different beast.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. That place is ancient, and it has its own rules.


    : Forbidden Floors or not, we''re with you all the way.


    The tunnel opened into another cavern, this one even larger than the last. Shadows clung to the walls, pooling in the corners like something alive. At the center of the room was a strange structure¡ªa stone pedestal, engraved with symbols that glowed faintly, casting an eerie light over the floor.


    I approached it cautiously, keeping the camera focused on the pedestal for the chat to see. The closer I got, the louder the object hummed, resonating with the markings on the pedestal. It was as if they were communicating, their energies intertwining in a language too old to understand.


    "Kijin, Raijuu," I murmured, signaling them to stay alert. They flanked me, their eyes scanning the darkness as I held the object above the pedestal. For a moment, nothing happened, and then, slowly, the symbols on the pedestal began to glow, brighter and brighter until they cast the entire room in a pale, otherworldly light.


    The chat exploded with reactions.


    : What''s happening?! It''s like the whole room just came to life!


    : This is insane. Those symbols are reacting to the object!


    : Tsukasa, you''re unlocking something ancient. Be careful!


    The light from the pedestal coalesced, forming a spectral figure¡ªa woman clad in robes, her form flickering like an old memory. Her eyes were closed, and her expression was calm, but there was a solemnity to her presence that made the air feel heavy.


    I held my breath as the figure opened her eyes, her gaze settling on me. There was a weight to her stare, as if she could see through every layer of me, into my thoughts, my intentions.


    "Bearer of the key,"


    she intoned, her voice soft but resonant, filling the chamber with a sense of calm.


    "You have ventured far, touched by the memories of the Forgotten. But do you truly understand the cost of carrying their legacy?"


    The chat was silent for a moment, then flooded with questions and support.


    : Does she mean the cost of remembrance? What does she know?


    : Tsukasa, don''t back down! You''ve come this far.


    : Whatever it is, we''re with you. Just keep going.


    I took a steadying breath. "I don''t fully understand yet," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. "But I want to know. I want to see this through."


    The woman''s expression softened, a hint of sadness flickering in her eyes. She raised a hand, gesturing toward the darkness surrounding us. Shadows began to twist and shift, forming images¡ªscenes from a forgotten time. I saw glimpses of cities, powerful figures wielding magic, battles waged in darkened skies. It was the history of the Forgotten, unraveling before us.


    "The Forgotten were not merely erased from history,"


    she continued, her voice filled with sorrow.


    "Their very existence was torn from the fabric of this world. To carry their memory is to carry their pain, their loss, their unfinished battle."


    The weight of her words settled over me, and I glanced down at the object in my hand, feeling its faint pulse as if responding to her. This wasn''t just about preserving a legacy; it was about shouldering the burden of a people who had been silenced.


    The chat was somber, their words echoing the gravity of the moment.


    : This is deeper than just a story. They''re asking you to carry their fight.


    : I didn''t realize the Forgotten went through so much. It''s tragic.


    : Tsukasa, we believe in you. If anyone can carry this, it''s you.


    The woman''s gaze softened as she looked at the object in my hand, then back at me. > Sear?h the Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    "To carry their legacy is a choice. You can leave this place, and the weight will lift. Or you can continue, and bear the cost that comes with remembrance."


    I closed my eyes for a moment, the enormity of the decision settling over me. The Forgotten hadn''t asked for vengeance, nor had they sought redemption. They wanted their story to be known, to live on, even if only in the memories of those who walked these halls.


    When I opened my eyes, my resolve was clear. "I''ll carry it," I said firmly. "I''ll carry their memory, their story, and whatever burden comes with it."


    The woman''s expression softened further, and for the first time, I saw a hint of relief in her eyes. She reached out, her hand passing through the object, and a faint glow enveloped her form.


    "Then their story lives on. And with it, so shall you."


    Her form began to fade, the light dimming as she dissolved into the darkness, leaving only a lingering warmth in the room. The pedestal''s glow faded as well, the symbols returning to their dormant state, as if satisfied with the promise I''d made.


    The chat was alive with encouragement and support.


    : That was beautiful, Tsukasa. You''re carrying something sacred now.


    : The Forgotten deserve to be remembered. Thank you for doing this.


    : This journey is just beginning, but we''re with you every step of the way.


    I looked at Kijin and Raijuu, both of them watching me with calm understanding. Whatever lay ahead, we were no longer just explorers in a dungeon. We were now the bearers of a forgotten legacy, entrusted with a story that had been hidden in the depths of history.


    As we turned to leave the chamber, the symbols on the walls seemed to glow a little brighter, as if lighting the path ahead. The weight of the Forgotten''s story rested on my shoulders, but for the first time, I felt a sense of clarity.


    We stepped into the shadows, the echoes of the past following us, guiding us deeper into the unknown.

 Chapter 137 - 137: The Light in the Abyss

    As we moved away from the chamber, a solemn silence filled the air, broken only by the faint, rhythmic pulse of the object in my hand. The dark passages seemed to narrow around us, as though the dungeon itself was shifting, aware of our intentions, of the legacy we now carried. The light from the object was our only guide, casting eerie shadows that danced along the rough stone walls. sea??h th§× N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kijin''s steps were cautious, his ears flicking at every sound, while Raijuu remained close to me, his fur charged with faint crackles of electricity. I could sense their wariness, their awareness of the gravity of what we had just undertaken. We weren''t just exploring a dungeon anymore. We were on a path that bridged the past with the present, the living with the forgotten.


    "Chat," I murmured, glancing at the scrolling messages on my screen. "We''re not just in a dungeon anymore. This place feels¡­ alive, as if it knows we''ve chosen to carry its secrets."


    The chat was a mix of awe and caution.


    : Tsukasa, this is intense. It''s like the dungeon is reacting to you.


    : Whatever lies ahead, stay strong. You''re carrying something huge.


    : This is like watching a legend in the making. We''re with you every step.


    The corridor eventually opened into a vast cavern, larger than any we''d seen before. At the center of the room was a colossal archway, carved from stone so dark it seemed to absorb the light. Intricate symbols ran along its surface, pulsing faintly, casting a cold, pale glow over the floor. Beyond the archway was only darkness¡ªa void so deep that even the light from my torch couldn''t penetrate it.


    I felt a shiver run down my spine. This wasn''t an ordinary dungeon portal or gateway. It was something more, something ancient and powerful, like a doorway between worlds.


    Kijin and Raijuu stopped beside me, their eyes fixed on the archway. I could feel their tension, their readiness to defend if something emerged from that darkness. But the object in my hand pulsed softly, guiding us forward, as if it recognized the archway as part of its own forgotten story.


    "Look at this, chat," I whispered, focusing the camera on the archway. "This isn''t just any portal. It''s like¡­ a bridge, maybe a gateway to the past."


    The chat was alive with excitement and fear.


    : That archway looks like it leads somewhere else entirely. Be careful!


    : It''s like something out of a myth. Whatever''s on the other side¡­ it''s not of this world.


    : You''re walking into history itself, Tsukasa. Just be ready.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of my decision settling over me. There was no turning back now. The Forgotten''s story had to be told, and I was the only one who could carry it forward. With a nod to Kijin and Raijuu, I stepped toward the archway, the object''s glow intensifying with each step.


    As we passed through the archway, a wave of cold swept over us, as though we were stepping into another realm entirely. The world shifted, and the darkness lifted, revealing a scene that took my breath away.


    We stood on the edge of a massive, underground city, its structures carved from stone that glowed faintly with a silvery light. Towers stretched toward the ceiling, their surfaces covered in ancient runes and symbols that shimmered like stars. The city was silent, frozen in time, yet filled with an energy that felt alive, like a memory waiting to be awakened.


    The chat was awestruck.


    : An entire city? Hidden beneath the dungeon?! This is beyond anything we''ve seen.


    : It''s like you''ve discovered a lost civilization. Tsukasa, you''re in the heart of the Forgotten''s world.


    : I can''t believe this is real. You''re literally walking through history.


    I stepped forward, my footsteps echoing in the vast silence of the city. Kijin and Raijuu followed, their eyes scanning the buildings, their movements cautious but curious. Every structure, every pathway felt purposeful, like the remnants of a story waiting to be uncovered.


    As we walked, I noticed faint carvings along the walls¡ªscenes of life, of people gathered in the streets, of festivals and gatherings, of a community thriving. The Forgotten hadn''t just been powerful; they had been a people with a culture, a society that had been erased from existence.


    I ran my fingers over the carvings, feeling a pang of sadness. This wasn''t just a dungeon. It was a grave, a monument to a people who had been erased from history.


    "Chat," I murmured, my voice barely a whisper, "we''re standing in the remnants of the Forgotten''s world. This city¡­ it''s like a memory, preserved in the dark."


    The chat was silent for a moment, then filled with words of encouragement and reverence.


    : Tsukasa, thank you for sharing this with us. This is¡­ beautiful.


    : I never imagined a dungeon could hold something like this. You''re honoring their memory.


    : This is why we watch you. You''re not just a dungeon explorer¡ªyou''re a storyteller.


    As I continued through the streets, a soft, ethereal light appeared at the edge of the city, casting a gentle glow over the buildings. The object in my hand pulsed in sync with the light, guiding us forward. I followed it, feeling a strange mix of anticipation and respect.


    We reached the source of the light¡ªa small, open square with a stone pedestal at its center. On the pedestal lay an ornate crystal, its surface etched with runes that shimmered in the darkness. It glowed softly, casting a warm light that felt comforting, almost like a heartbeat.


    The chat was filled with awe and wonder.


    : That crystal¡­ it looks like the heart of the city.


    : I think this is what the Forgotten wanted you to find. Their legacy.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This feels important.


    I approached the crystal, feeling its energy radiate through the air. It wasn''t just a relic; it was a memory, a piece of the Forgotten''s essence. As I reached out to touch it, a faint whisper echoed in my mind, soft and distant, like a voice from another time.


    "Bearer of the key¡­ thank you¡­ for remembering us."


    A warmth filled my chest, and I felt a surge of emotion that I couldn''t quite place. It was as if the entire city, the memories of the Forgotten, were flowing into me, entrusting me with their story. I closed my eyes, letting the energy wash over me, feeling a sense of connection, of purpose.


    When I opened my eyes, the crystal had dimmed, its light fading as though it had fulfilled its purpose. The city around us felt different, quieter, as if its spirit had finally found peace.


    The chat was filled with messages of support and reverence.


    : That was beautiful, Tsukasa. You''ve given them what they wanted.


    : This journey has been incredible. Thank you for bringing us with you.


    : You''re carrying something sacred now. Whatever comes next, we''re with you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the Forgotten''s legacy settle within me. This wasn''t just a story or a memory¡ªit was a part of me now, a responsibility to carry their voice forward.


    As I turned to leave the city, Kijin and Raijuu followed, their gazes steady, their loyalty unwavering. We made our way back through the streets, the silence of the city now filled with a sense of peace. The light from the archway guided us back, casting one final glow over the ancient stones as we stepped through.


    The pathway beyond was dark, but I knew that the journey wasn''t over. The Forgotten''s story would live on, and I would carry it, one step at a time, into the light.

 Chapter 138 - 138: Whispers of the Living Dungeon

    The silence lingered as we stepped away from the ancient city, its fading light casting the passage into a cold, eerie darkness. Every step felt heavier, as if I were carrying not just the memories of the Forgotten, but their very essence. The faint pulse of the object I held seemed to guide us, it had a quiet, steady rhythm echoing the heartbeat of a people long gone.


    Kijin prowled forward, with his steps slow and deliberate, and his senses heightened. Raijuu stayed close, his eyes scanning the shadows as faint sparks crackled along his fur. I could feel their tension, a readiness to protect as we ventured deeper into the Forbidden Floors.


    "Chat look at this," I murmured, adjusting the camera to capture the darkness unfolding around us, "the city¡­ it was just the beginning. The path ahead feels different, it feels like..... it''s alive."


    The chat was buzzing with a mix of excitement and concern.


    : That city was unbelievable. I feel like we just walked through a lost world.


    : You''re still going further? This place feels like it has a mind of its own.


    : Whatever''s down there, stay safe, Tsukasa. We''re here with you. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As we moved deeper, I noticed a change in the air¡ªthicker, colder, and laced with an energy that felt strangely aware, like the dungeon itself was watching. Symbols carved into the walls glowed faintly, illuminating the narrow path ahead, their flickering light casting strange shadows that danced along the stone.


    The object in my hand pulsed stronger, its rhythm syncing with the symbols, as though responding to their call. I felt an odd tug, a pull that urged me forward, and despite the creeping chill, I knew I had to press on.


    Suddenly, a low hum filled the air, and the symbols on the walls flared brighter, their light intensifying as the ground beneath us trembled. Kijin''s ears flattened, his body tense, while Raijuu''s fur stood on end, his gaze locked on the darkness ahead.


    "What''s going on?" I whispered, scanning the shadows as the hum grew louder, filling the air with an unsettling resonance. The chat was in a frenzy, reacting to the unexpected shift in the dungeon''s energy.


    : The symbols are alive! It''s like the dungeon is¡­ responding to you.


    : I have a bad feeling about this. Is the dungeon¡­ waking up?


    : Tsukasa, be careful. This feels different from anything we''ve seen before.


    The light from the symbols coalesced, forming a hazy, spectral shape that flickered in and out of view, as though caught between this world and another. The figure was tall and cloaked, its form shifting like mist, and a faint whisper drifted through the air¡ªa voice layered with age and mystery.


    "Bearer of memory¡­ why do you tread upon sacred ground?"


    A chill ran down my spine as the voice echoed through the passage. It was different from the other voices, more resonant, filled with an ancient authority that made the air feel heavy. I took a deep breath, steadying my nerves.


    "I¡­ I''m here to understand," I replied, my voice barely more than a whisper. "To carry the story of those who came before."


    The figure''s gaze settled on me, its eyes glowing faintly beneath its hood. The chat was silent, each message conveying a mix of awe and fear.


    : This isn''t just a dungeon boss. This feels like¡­ something more.


    : Did it call you the bearer of memory? Tsukasa, what does that mean?


    : Whatever''s going on, you''re handling it like a pro. Just stay safe.


    The figure tilted its head, its form wavering as though caught in a distant memory. >


    "The Forgotten''s story¡­ lies heavy upon you. But there is more to be seen, more to be understood."


    The object in my hand pulsed, resonating with the figure''s presence, and suddenly, my vision shifted. I was no longer in the dungeon but standing amidst scenes of battles and ruins, echoes of the past flashing before me¡ªa people cast out, betrayed, fighting for survival. Their powers, once revered, had become their curse, sealing their fate.


    And then, the images faded, leaving a single, clear memory¡ªa doorway, ancient and bound by chains, hidden deep within the heart of the Forbidden Floors. A shiver ran through me. This was their prison, the very core of the dungeon, a place where their power had been bound.


    The chat was filled with shock and awe.


    : That was¡­ intense. Did we just see their prison? This is so much bigger than I thought.


    : A sealed doorway? That''s got to be the heart of the dungeon.


    : Tsukasa, this is on another level. Whatever''s down there, it''s not just a monster.


    The spectral figure''s voice returned, softer this time, laced with sorrow. >


    "You have seen our end, but the true story lies within. Do you wish to walk further, bearer of memory?"


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of my decision settle over me. I had come this far, carrying their legacy, uncovering pieces of a history that had been silenced. But this next step¡ªit felt like it would be a final test, a confrontation with the heart of their story.


    "Yes," I replied, my voice steady. "I''ll go as far as I need to, to understand."


    The figure inclined its head, a faint glow emanating from its form as it slowly faded into the shadows. The light from the symbols dimmed, leaving only the faint pulse of the object to guide us.


    As we pressed forward, the air grew colder, and the passage narrowed, twisting in unnatural ways as though the very walls were alive, responding to our presence. Kijin and Raijuu stayed close, their eyes sharp and alert, their movements cautious but determined.


    The chat was a mix of encouragement and warnings.


    : This is it. You''re heading toward the heart of the dungeon.


    : Just be careful, Tsukasa. This place has its own rules.


    : We''re here with you. Whatever happens, we''re not going anywhere.


    Finally, we reached a chamber larger than any I''d seen, a vast, empty space with high, arched ceilings and walls covered in intricate symbols. At the center of the room stood the doorway I had seen in the vision¡ªa massive stone door bound in heavy chains, each link inscribed with ancient runes that glowed faintly in the dim light.


    The object in my hand pulsed with a frantic rhythm, as if urging me forward. I felt its energy radiate through me, filling me with a mixture of anticipation and dread. This was the heart of the Forbidden Floors, the place where the Forgotten''s story had been sealed away.


    The chat was tense, filled with messages of support and awe.


    : That door¡­ it''s like a prison. You''re standing at the core of the dungeon!


    : The chains have runes! This isn''t just a door¡ªit''s a boundary.


    : Tsukasa, you''re about to uncover something huge. Just¡­ be careful.


    I took a step closer, feeling the weight of the room settle over me. The chains rattled faintly, as though responding to my presence, and a low hum filled the air, growing louder with each passing second. I could feel the power radiating from the door, a force that had been contained for centuries.


    With a steady hand, I raised the object, its light merging with the symbols on the chains. The runes glowed brighter, and a faint, ghostly whisper echoed through the chamber.


    "Release us¡­"


    My heart raced as the whisper filled the room, carrying with it the weight of countless voices¡ªechoes of the Forgotten, trapped in this prison, their stories erased, their voices silenced. This was their last remnant, the final piece of their legacy, bound within the heart of the dungeon.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their plea settle over me. "I''m here to remember," I whispered. "To carry your story forward."


    The chains trembled, each link vibrating with a faint, rhythmic pulse. The chat was alive with a mix of awe and caution, their messages flowing across the screen.


    : Are you going to release them? This feels¡­ so intense.


    : This is what the Forgotten wanted. Their story deserves to be known.


    : Whatever happens, we''re with you, Tsukasa. Let''s do this.


    I took one final step forward, pressing the object against the chains. A surge of energy filled the room, the runes glowing brighter until the entire chamber was bathed in light. The chains began to crack, each link shattering with a resounding echo that reverberated through the air.


    As the final chain fell away, the door creaked open, revealing a swirling darkness beyond¡ªa void that seemed to pulse with a life of its own, a boundary between worlds. I felt a pull, a whisper urging me forward, into the unknown.


    The chat was silent, the gravity of the moment filling the screen with anticipation.


    With a final glance at Kijin and Raijuu, I took a deep breath and stepped through the doorway, feeling the weight of the Forgotten''s legacy settle over me as the darkness closed in.

 Chapter 139 - 139: The World Between Worlds

    The darkness enveloped us as we passed through the doorway, its silence deep and consuming. For a moment, I could see nothing¡ªonly an endless void stretching in every direction. Then, gradually, a faint light began to emerge, shimmering in the distance like a distant star, drawing us forward.


    Kijin and Raijuu flanked me, their forms barely visible in the dim glow. The object in my hand pulsed steadily, its rhythm guiding us toward the faint light ahead. It was as if the object held a memory of this place, guiding us through a path it knew but I had yet to understand.


    "Chat, I can''t even describe where we are," I murmured, feeling a strange reverence. "This¡­ this isn''t just another room or chamber. It''s like we''ve crossed into another world."


    The chat was flooded with awe and excitement.


    : It''s like you''ve stepped into the Forgotten''s realm. This is unbelievable!


    : I can''t believe we''re seeing this. Whatever lies ahead, just be careful, Tsukasa.


    : This is literally beyond anything. You''re carrying a legacy into the unknown.


    The light grew closer, revealing a vast space that felt both boundless and confined. Strange structures, twisted and ancient, appeared on either side, their surfaces inscribed with runes that glowed faintly, as though whispering secrets too ancient for words. The air felt heavy, filled with the presence of countless voices, each one an echo of a forgotten story.


    Ahead of us, the light solidified, forming a figure that stood in the center of the void. Cloaked in shadows, the figure''s face was obscured, but its presence was undeniable, radiating an aura of power and age beyond comprehension.


    I held my breath as the figure turned toward us, and a voice, soft yet commanding, filled the air.


    "Bearer of memory, you have entered the realm of the Forgotten. Why have you come?"


    The voice was layered, echoing with countless tones and emotions. It was as if every soul that had ever walked this place spoke through this one figure, each adding its own note to the symphony of voices.


    "I came to carry your story," I replied, my voice steady despite the overwhelming presence before me. "To ensure that the Forgotten are remembered, that your legacy endures."


    The figure''s head tilted slightly, and I felt its gaze settle on me, piercing and unyielding. The chat was filled with a mix of awe and apprehension, their messages a chorus of support.


    : This feels like a trial. Tsukasa, be strong.


    : You''re carrying their history. This is your moment. S§×ar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Whatever happens, we''re here with you. The Forgotten deserve to be known.


    The figure extended a hand, and with it, images filled the void around us¡ªscenes of ancient battles, of cities consumed by darkness, of people who wielded powers that defied comprehension. Each image was a fragment of the Forgotten''s story, a piece of their legacy that had been hidden away.


    "The memory you carry is a burden, a weight that many could not bear. Yet you have chosen this path willingly. Do you understand the cost?"


    I felt the weight of the question settle over me, each word resonating with a sense of finality. This wasn''t just about remembering the past; it was about becoming a vessel for a history erased from existence, a voice for those silenced by time.


    "I understand," I replied, my voice unwavering. "I''m prepared to bear that burden, whatever it may bring."


    The figure''s form shifted, its shadows twisting as it seemed to consider my response. For a moment, the air was filled with silence, a silence that felt as ancient as the void itself.


    Then, slowly, the figure raised its other hand, revealing a small, glowing crystal¡ªits surface inscribed with runes similar to those on the object I held. The crystal pulsed with a soft, steady light, and I felt its energy reach out, connecting with the object in my hand.


    "This is the heart of our memory,"


    the figure intoned, its voice filled with a mixture of sorrow and pride.


    "A fragment of our essence, preserved in the darkness. Take it, and with it, carry our story to the world beyond."


    The crystal floated toward me, its light growing brighter with each pulse. I reached out, feeling its warmth in my hand, and a surge of energy filled me¡ªa flood of memories, emotions, and voices, each one a piece of the Forgotten''s legacy.


    The chat was silent, their awe palpable as they witnessed the exchange.


    : You''re holding their heart¡­ This is beyond anything we could''ve imagined.


    : This isn''t just a dungeon anymore. It''s a bridge to a world that''s been lost.


    : Tsukasa, this is the most incredible thing I''ve ever seen. You''re their last hope.


    I looked down at the crystal, feeling its energy settle within me, merging with the object I had carried all this way. The two pieces resonated, their combined power filling me with a sense of purpose, a clarity I had never known.


    The figure''s voice softened, its form flickering as though it were fading. >


    "Go forth, bearer of memory. Let our story be told, let our voices echo through time. And may our legacy live on through you."


    The figure dissolved into light, its final words lingering in the air as the void around us began to shift, the darkness lifting to reveal the passage from which we had come. The way back was open, but the weight of the journey, of the memories entrusted to me, felt heavier than ever.


    Kijin and Raijuu stepped forward, their gazes calm and steady, as though sensing the significance of the moment. Together, we turned back toward the passage, each step filled with a sense of resolve.


    As we crossed the threshold, the darkness receded, and we were back in the familiar stone corridors of the Forbidden Floors. The light from the crystal and the object in my hand had dimmed, their glow now a soft, steady rhythm that pulsed in sync with my heartbeat.


    The chat was alive with emotion, their messages flooding the screen.


    : Tsukasa, thank you. You carried their legacy. You gave them a voice.


    : This is beyond anything I ever expected from a dungeon stream. You''re a part of history now.


    : You honored the Forgotten. Their story will live on because of you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the Forgotten''s memory settle within me, a burden that was both humbling and empowering. This wasn''t just another dungeon. It was a testament, a final resting place for a people who had been erased from history.


    "We did it, everyone," I whispered, my voice filled with gratitude. "Their story is safe, and their voices¡­ they''ll be heard."


    As we made our way back through the Forbidden Floors, the path felt lighter, the darkness less oppressive. The Forgotten had left their mark, a memory that would live on, and I was honored to carry it forward.

 Chapter 140 - 140: The Weight of Remembrance

    Emerging from the heart of the Forbidden Floors, the atmosphere felt markedly different. The oppressive shadows that had once clung to every wall seemed to lift, leaving an almost peaceful stillness in their place. Each step now echoed, a quiet testament to the silence left behind by the Forgotten. Kijin and Raijuu walked beside me, their movements steady, almost reverent, as if they too understood the weight of the memory we now carried.


    "Chat," I said softly, my voice breaking the profound quiet, "it feels like a chapter just closed¡­ but it''s not the end. Their story is only beginning to be told."


    The chat was alive with an outpouring of support and awe.


    : You honored the Forgotten, Tsukasa. They''ll never be forgotten again.


    : I don''t think any dungeon explorer has ever uncovered something this powerful.


    : This isn''t just about dungeons anymore. You''re carrying a legacy.


    The object in my hand¡ªnow joined with the heart of the Forgotten¡ªpulsed gently, a soft glow radiating from its core. It felt as if the crystal held within it an entire world, a weight that was both heavy and strangely comforting. Their voices, their memories, their hopes¡­ all now entrusted to me.


    We continued our journey through the dim corridors, and I could feel the dungeon shift around us. The walls, once oppressive and cold, now felt warmer, the carvings no longer ominous but rather like guardians, watching over us. It was as if the dungeon itself acknowledged the closure of the Forgotten''s story, a rare peace settling over a place that had long been shrouded in sorrow.


    The chat seemed to sense this shift, filling the screen with messages of reverence.


    : The dungeon feels¡­ lighter? Is it just me, or did something change?


    : I think they''re at peace now. The whole atmosphere is different.


    : This is a moment we''ll never forget. Thank you for sharing it with us, Tsukasa.


    As we navigated through the winding passages, something caught my eye¡ªa faint glow emanating from an alcove on the side. Curious, I approached it, holding the camera steady to give the chat a clear view. The alcove contained a stone pedestal, and on it rested a small, ornate box, its surface covered in symbols that mirrored those on the crystal.


    I hesitated, glancing at Kijin and Raijuu. They both stared at the box, their eyes calm yet alert, as if they, too, sensed the significance of this discovery.


    "Chat, this looks like¡­ an offering," I murmured, reaching out to touch the box. "It feels like a gift, maybe something left behind by the Forgotten."


    The chat was filled with anticipation.


    : Open it! This might be a final blessing from them.


    : Whatever''s inside, it feels like a token of their gratitude.


    : Be careful, but¡­ I think they wanted you to find this. S§×ar?h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    With careful hands, I lifted the lid of the box. Inside lay a piece of parchment, its surface worn but the writing still clear. The characters were in the same ancient language I had seen throughout the dungeon, yet somehow, I could read them. It was as if the crystal''s energy was translating the message, each word forming clearly in my mind.


    "To the bearer of memory: We offer you our blessing, a token of strength to carry our story forward. In our final moments, may our legacy live through you."


    A warmth filled my chest, a feeling of gratitude and connection that transcended words. They were truly at peace now, their final wish entrusted to a stranger who had walked through their forgotten world, willing to bear the burden of remembrance.


    I reached into the box and found a small amulet¡ªa simple stone, smooth and polished, with a faint glow emanating from its core. As I held it, I felt a surge of energy course through me, a strength that was both physical and spiritual. The amulet wasn''t just an artifact; it was a piece of their essence, a symbol of their trust.


    The chat erupted with messages of awe and reverence.


    : They gave you their blessing! That''s¡­ that''s incredible.


    : This isn''t just an item. It''s a part of them, living on through you.


    : Tsukasa, you''re carrying something sacred. You''ve truly become a part of their legacy.


    I slipped the amulet around my neck, feeling its weight settle against my chest. It was a constant, comforting presence, a reminder that I was not alone in this journey. The Forgotten''s story, their strength, their hope for remembrance¡ªall of it now lived within me.


    As we continued through the dungeon, I could feel the crystal''s energy resonating with the amulet, a quiet pulse that seemed to guide our steps. Kijin and Raijuu remained close, their eyes reflecting the calm strength of the Forgotten''s blessing. The path ahead felt lighter, as though the dungeon itself had transformed from a place of sorrow to one of honor, a hallowed ground that would now bear witness to their story.


    The chat was silent for a moment, then filled with messages of encouragement and support.


    : Thank you, Tsukasa. This journey was beyond anything we could''ve imagined.


    : You''re carrying their memory, and we''re here with you every step of the way.


    : Whatever happens next, know that you''ve given the Forgotten a voice.


    As we neared the entrance of the Forbidden Floors, the shadows began to lift, revealing the familiar stone walls of the upper levels. But even here, I could feel a shift in the air¡ªa subtle warmth, a sense of closure that had permeated the entire dungeon. The story of the Forgotten, once silenced, now echoed through these halls, their voices no longer lost.


    I paused at the threshold, turning back for one final glance into the depths of the Forbidden Floors. The glow from the amulet and the crystal pulsed in unison, a steady rhythm that filled me with a quiet sense of purpose.


    "Thank you," I whispered, my words barely a breath. "Your story won''t be forgotten. I promise."


    With Kijin and Raijuu by my side, we stepped out of the Forbidden Floors, emerging into the familiar light of the upper dungeon. The chat was alive with messages, each one a testament to the impact of our journey.


    : This was a journey beyond words, Tsukasa. Thank you for honoring their story.


    : I''ll never look at dungeons the same way again. You''ve changed everything.


    : You''ve truly become the bearer of memory. This story will live on because of you.


    I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their gratitude settle over me. This journey, this legacy¡ªnone of it had been expected. But it was an honor I would carry with pride, a story I would share, not just for myself, but for those who had been silenced, forgotten, and erased.

 Chapter 141 - 141: Echoes on the Way Back

    Leaving the heart of the Forbidden Floors felt surreal, like stepping out of a long-forgotten memory and back into reality. As the weight of the journey lifted slightly, my senses seemed sharper, taking in every detail of the dungeon''s upper corridors¡ªthe damp stone walls, the faint echoes of distant creatures, the flickering torches lighting the way back.


    Kijin padded silently beside me, his ears pricked forward, alert but calm. Raijuu''s sparks had diminished, but I could feel the lingering energy around him. They both seemed to sense a change, as if even the dungeon''s familiar upper levels held new meaning after our descent.


    "Chat," I murmured, adjusting the camera, "it''s strange. We''ve been through these floors dozens of times, but¡­ something feels different now."


    The chat''s responses rolled in, each viewer interpreting our return in their own way.


    : It''s like you''re seeing it through new eyes.


    : Even the regular floors feel different after everything we''ve seen.


    : Do you think the rest of the dungeon is affected by the Forbidden Floors now?


    I nodded slightly. "Maybe it''s the shift in perspective. Knowing what lies below¡ªit changes things. But whatever it is, we''re not the same explorers who first came down here."


    The path was quiet, and I found myself more aware of the subtle sounds around us. The steady drip of water somewhere in the distance. The faint scuttle of something small in the shadows. Every sound seemed sharper, more pronounced, as though the dungeon itself was watching.


    Kijin suddenly stopped, his head tilted, ears flicking as he listened to a sound just out of range. I halted, motioning to Raijuu to stay close. A faint, low hum echoed from up ahead, vibrating against the stone walls. It was rhythmic, not quite mechanical but strangely familiar, resonating with an energy that made my skin prickle.


    The chat reacted instantly.


    : Do you hear that? It sounds like¡­ a heartbeat?


    : I swear, it''s like the dungeon itself is alive now.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This isn''t normal.


    I adjusted my grip on the camera, moving forward slowly. "Yeah, chat, I hear it too. It''s faint, but¡­ it''s almost like the rhythm of the crystal."


    The pulsing continued, growing slightly stronger with each step. It felt alive, resonating with the amulet at my chest, as if echoing the energy of the Forbidden Floors. I glanced at the crystal, noticing its faint glow had returned, and with each pulse, the glow synchronized with the distant hum. S§×ar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kijin''s ears flicked back, his muscles tensing as he crouched low, ready for anything. Raijuu''s fur bristled again, sparks dancing along his tail as he moved closer, eyes sharp and focused. The three of us advanced carefully, listening to the hum that seemed to guide us.


    "Whatever it is," I whispered, more to myself than to the chat, "it''s connected to the Forbidden Floors. Maybe this is their way of reminding us¡­ or guiding us."


    The chat was a mix of excitement and nerves.


    : It''s like they''re still reaching out, even from below.


    : This feels like a test. Are we really leaving the dungeon, or is something waiting?


    : You''re carrying their legacy. This might just be the beginning.


    Ahead, the corridor opened into a small chamber. The hum was louder now, reverberating off the walls in a steady rhythm, its intensity seeming to build as we entered the space. The chamber was empty save for a stone pedestal at its center, similar to the one we had found in the heart of the Forbidden Floors. Symbols lined its surface, each one glowing faintly, reflecting the energy of the amulet I now wore.


    I held the camera steady, letting the chat see the pedestal in full.


    "Look at this, chat. This pedestal¡ªsame markings, same energy. It''s like a message they left behind."


    The chat responded immediately.


    : This can''t be a coincidence. They wanted you to find this.


    : Another message, maybe? It''s almost like a breadcrumb trail.


    : Whatever''s happening, don''t leave without checking it out.


    I approached the pedestal cautiously, feeling the energy resonate through me as I drew near. The symbols pulsed gently, as if reacting to my presence, and I felt a warmth emanate from the amulet, the energy flowing from it into the pedestal. It was as though the pedestal was reading the energy I carried, responding to the legacy of the Forgotten that had been entrusted to me.


    Suddenly, a faint image appeared above the pedestal¡ªa projection of sorts, shimmering in the dim light. The figure was cloaked, its features obscured, but there was something familiar about its posture, its presence. It was as if a fragment of the Forgotten''s spirit had come forward, reaching out through the remnants of its ancient energy.


    The chat was transfixed, their messages flooding the screen.


    : It''s them. The Forgotten are speaking through this place.


    : Are we about to get another message? This is unreal.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. This might be more than just a projection.


    The figure raised its hand slowly, and a soft voice filled the chamber, layered and resonant, echoing with the wisdom of ages.


    "Bearer of memory¡­ the path you walk is not yet complete. Our story lives within you, but there is still more to understand, more to uncover."


    I held my breath, listening to the words with a strange sense of calm. This wasn''t just a projection; it felt like a direct connection to the essence of the Forbidden Floors, a part of their memory reaching out from beyond.


    "What else do I need to understand?" I asked, my voice steady but filled with curiosity. "I thought I was carrying your story. What more is there?"


    The figure''s form wavered, shifting slightly as though considering my question.


    "To carry our memory is to carry our purpose. But to truly honor it, you must return to the places we once knew, the lands that bore our people''s name."


    The chat was a mix of awe and confusion.


    : Places they once knew? Does this mean there are more locations tied to the Forgotten?


    : Is this going beyond the dungeon? You might be looking at a whole new journey.


    : They''re guiding you to something. This isn''t over.


    I glanced down at the amulet, feeling its warmth intensify as the figure''s words resonated through the air. The crystal seemed to pulse with a renewed energy, as though it held a map, a memory of lands that lay beyond the dungeon''s walls.


    "What are these places?" I asked, focusing on the figure. "How do I find them?"


    "Look to the light within the crystal. It will guide you."


    The figure''s image flickered, the glow from the symbols fading slightly, as though the connection was growing weaker. The hum that had filled the chamber began to dim, the energy dispersing slowly. I could feel the weight of their final message settle over me¡ªa direction, a purpose that extended beyond the depths of the Forbidden Floors.


    Kijin and Raijuu both glanced at me, their expressions unreadable but calm. I could tell they, too, sensed the importance of the message, the weight of the legacy that had now become more than just a story.


    The chat was filled with a sense of anticipation.


    : This isn''t just about the dungeon anymore. You''re being called to something bigger.


    : They''re guiding you somewhere¡ªlike a map to another piece of their history.


    : Whatever it is, Tsukasa, we''re with you. This is a story that has to be told.


    The figure''s image flickered one last time before dissolving into a faint glow that settled over the pedestal. The symbols dimmed, returning to their dormant state, and the hum faded into silence. The only light now came from the crystal and the amulet, their soft, steady rhythm like a heartbeat, echoing with a quiet urgency.


    I took a steadying breath, the weight of their message settling over me. This journey wasn''t over¡ªit was leading somewhere beyond the dungeon, to places that held the Forgotten''s memories, their legacy, their final secrets.


    "We''re heading back, everyone," I said, adjusting the camera. "But it looks like this isn''t the end. If what they said is true, then there''s more out there. And we''re going to find it."


    Kijin moved forward, taking the lead as we exited the chamber. Raijuu stayed close, his gaze watchful, his body relaxed but ready. The corridor stretched before us, silent and still, yet filled with a sense of purpose that hadn''t been there before.


    As we walked, the familiar walls seemed to shift, the weight of the Forbidden Floors lingering like an echo that would never fade. The amulet and crystal pulsed with each step, as if anticipating what lay beyond the dungeon''s depths. And for the first time, I felt a pull toward something outside, a story that extended past the darkened corridors and into a world waiting to be explored.

 Chapter 142 - 142: A World Beyond the Dungeon

    The closer we got to the surface, the more the tension in the air seemed to shift. The oppressive silence of the Forbidden Floors was gone, replaced by the familiar, almost mundane sounds of the dungeon''s upper levels. The soft hum of the amulet and crystal at my chest was a constant reminder of the legacy I now carried, their faint pulses guiding me forward like a heartbeat synced with my own.


    Kijin and Raijuu moved ahead with purpose, their senses sharp but not tense. They seemed to sense, as I did, that the journey wasn''t truly over. The path out of the dungeon felt longer than usual, each step filled with the weight of the message I''d received. The thought that the Forgotten''s legacy extended beyond these walls was both daunting and exhilarating.


    The chat was alive with speculation.


    : Do you think the crystal is leading you to another dungeon?


    : The Forgotten''s legacy feels bigger than any one place. This could go worldwide.


    : Tsukasa, do you think the world is even ready to uncover this story?


    The weight of that last question lingered in my mind. The discovery of the Forbidden Floors and the Forgotten''s story wasn''t just another dungeon stream¡ªit was something that could rewrite how we understood dungeons, history, and maybe even humanity itself. But for now, there were more immediate concerns: deciphering the crystal''s guidance and preparing for whatever came next.


    "We''ll figure it out, chat," I said, my voice steady despite the turmoil in my thoughts. "One step at a time. First, we get out of here and take a closer look at what the crystal is trying to tell us."


    As we rounded a corner, the faint glow of the dungeon''s entrance came into view, the natural light filtering in from outside casting long shadows across the stone walls. For a moment, the sight was jarring¡ªit had been hours, maybe days, since I''d seen natural light, and it felt like stepping into another world.


    Kijin paused at the threshold, his ears flicking as he scanned the open space ahead. Raijuu stood beside him, his tail swishing in short, sharp motions. I could feel their anticipation, their readiness for whatever lay ahead.


    The chat buzzed with excitement.


    : You''re almost out! I can''t believe this journey is finally coming full circle.


    : That light is a whole mood after all those hours in the depths.


    : What''s the first thing you''re going to do when you''re back outside?


    I stepped forward, crossing the threshold into the open air. The sunlight hit my face, warm and bright, and I blinked against the sudden brightness, the cool breeze carrying with it the familiar sounds of the forest that surrounded the dungeon''s entrance. The world outside felt oddly surreal after the weight of the Forbidden Floors, as if it didn''t quite fit with everything I''d just experienced. S§×arch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I turned the camera toward the entrance, letting the chat see the towering stone archway that marked the dungeon''s mouth. It looked almost unassuming now, a simple opening in the ground that gave no hint of the secrets hidden within.


    "Chat," I said, adjusting the focus, "we''re out. But this¡­ this is just the beginning. The Forbidden Floors were one chapter, but the crystal is pointing us to something bigger."


    The chat erupted with enthusiasm.


    : You did it, Tsukasa! This was the best stream I''ve ever seen.


    : The Forbidden Floors are just the start¡ªI can feel it.


    : We''re ready for the next adventure. Let''s see where this leads.


    Kijin and Raijuu stayed close as we moved away from the dungeon''s entrance, heading toward a clearing where I could take a moment to regroup. The amulet and crystal pulsed faintly, their energy calm but insistent, as if urging me to take the next step.


    I found a spot near a fallen log, setting up the camera to capture the crystal''s glow in full. Holding it in my hands, I examined the faint patterns that seemed to shift across its surface. The runes, once incomprehensible, now felt like a language I was just beginning to understand.


    "Chat, let''s take a closer look," I said, angling the camera. "The figure said the crystal would guide us to their lands. Maybe there''s a clue hidden in the runes."


    The chat offered their theories and observations.


    : Those patterns are moving. It''s almost like they''re alive.


    : What if the crystal is a map? It might show the way to their homeland.


    : Tsukasa, try focusing your energy on it. Maybe it''ll respond.


    Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes and focused on the crystal, letting its faint hum resonate through me. The warmth of the amulet spread across my chest, syncing with the crystal''s energy. Slowly, the runes on its surface began to shift, forming clearer shapes¡ªlines and curves that started to resemble a map.


    "Chat, you were right," I said, excitement creeping into my voice. "It''s a map. The runes are forming coordinates¡­ or something like that."


    The chat was electric with excitement.


    : A map?! This just got even bigger!


    : What if it''s leading you to another hidden city? This could change everything.


    : This feels like a whole new chapter is about to unfold.


    As the runes settled into place, a faint glow traced the outline of a landmass¡ªan island, isolated and distant, surrounded by symbols that seemed to mark specific locations. At its center was a larger symbol, its glow pulsing like a heartbeat, as if calling out.


    "This island¡­" I murmured, studying the map. "It doesn''t look familiar. But the crystal is pointing to its center. That''s where we need to go."


    The chat was quick to react.


    : An island? That''s huge! Do you think it''s connected to other dungeons?


    : This is bigger than just the Forbidden Floors. The Forgotten''s story might span the whole world.


    : Tsukasa, you''re holding history in your hands. This is legendary.


    I saved an image of the map, ensuring I had a record of the runes'' formation. Whatever this island was, it held the next piece of the Forgotten''s legacy, a continuation of their story that extended far beyond the dungeon we''d just left.


    Kijin and Raijuu moved closer, their gazes fixed on the glowing crystal as if sensing its importance. The forest around us was calm, the sunlight filtering through the trees casting dappled shadows across the ground. But even in the peace of the moment, I could feel the weight of what lay ahead.


    Standing, I adjusted the camera and took a deep breath. "Chat, this is where we''re headed next. An island tied to the Forgotten''s past, a place that holds their secrets. It''s not just about uncovering a story anymore. It''s about understanding how their legacy connects to the world we know."


    The chat was a flurry of excitement, their messages filled with anticipation for the next stage of the journey.


    : Let''s go! This is going to be your biggest adventure yet.


    : The Forgotten''s story isn''t just history¡ªit''s alive, and you''re carrying it forward.


    : We''re with you, Tsukasa. Whatever happens next, we''re ready.


    I glanced down at the crystal, its glow steady and insistent, and felt a spark of determination. The island was calling, its mysteries waiting to be uncovered. With Kijin and Raijuu by my side, I knew we were ready to take the next step.


    We left the clearing, the forest stretching out before us, the path ahead filled with questions waiting to be answered. The crystal pulsed softly in my hand, its energy a quiet reminder of the story we''d been entrusted to tell.

 Chapter 143 - 143: The Island Beckons

    The journey from the dungeon''s clearing back to the outskirts of town was uneventful, yet my mind was far from calm. The map etched into the crystal replayed in my thoughts, the island''s contours and glowing symbols etched as clearly in my mind as they had been on its surface. Kijin padded ahead silently, his sharp eyes scanning the surroundings, while Raijuu trotted beside me, his tail flicking with faint arcs of electricity.


    The chat kept me grounded, their buzzing commentary pulling me out of my thoughts every now and then.


    : Tsukasa, where even is that island? Do you have any idea?


    : The Forbidden Floors are one thing, but now you''re heading into the unknown.


    : Please tell me you''re going to get a boat and not, like, swim there.


    I gave the camera a small smile. "Don''t worry, chat. No swimming. But you''re right¡ªwe need to figure out where this place is. The crystal only gave us a shape, not a location."


    The crystal''s faint hum was still present, a steady rhythm that seemed to sync with my heartbeat. I could feel its energy, guiding and steady, like a compass pointing toward the unknown. Whatever this island was, it wasn''t on any map I''d seen, but I was certain it existed. The Forgotten''s guidance was deliberate, their story far from finished.


    We arrived back at the small town that bordered the dungeon entrance¡ªa place that served as a hub for adventurers and explorers alike. The familiar noise of merchants, equipment vendors, and tavern chatter filled the air, a stark contrast to the eerie silence of the Forbidden Floors. The sight of other people brought a strange sense of normalcy, yet it felt almost foreign after the solitude of the journey below.


    I made my way to a quiet corner of the adventurers'' guild, a place where maps of the surrounding regions were displayed for planning expeditions. The maps were detailed, showing everything from major cities to the smaller uncharted territories on the edges of civilization. Yet, as I scanned the charts, I couldn''t find anything resembling the island the crystal had shown me.


    The chat chimed in with suggestions.


    : Maybe it''s in uncharted waters? Someplace nobody''s explored yet?


    : Tsukasa, are there any adventurer logs about far-off islands? Someone might''ve seen it.


    : Could the crystal itself help pinpoint the location? Maybe it''s like a homing beacon.


    I nodded, the idea sparking something in me. "That''s a good point, chat. The crystal''s been guiding us this far. Maybe it can do more than just show the map."


    I stepped back from the charts, holding the crystal up in my hand. Its glow was faint, but the moment I focused on it, the energy pulsed stronger. Closing my eyes, I tried to tune into the rhythm, letting its faint hum guide my thoughts. A warmth spread through my chest, and a faint image flickered in my mind¡ªwaves crashing against rocky shores, dense forests rising in the distance, and a starry sky overhead.


    The crystal''s glow flared briefly, then dimmed again, its energy fading back to a steady pulse. I opened my eyes, exhaling slowly as the image lingered in my memory.


    "Chat, I think I just saw it. The island¡­ it''s isolated, surrounded by rough waters, but it''s real." I glanced at the maps again. "We just need to figure out how to match what I saw with the coastline."


    The chat lit up with excitement.


    : That''s amazing! It''s like the crystal is showing you fragments of the Forgotten''s memories. sea??h th§× n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : If the island''s that remote, maybe it''s not on modern maps.


    : Could it be near one of the uncharted areas? The coastline might match.


    I decided to start asking around the guild, showing a rough sketch of the island''s shape based on the crystal''s vision. Most of the adventurers shook their heads, muttering about how they''d never seen such a place, but a grizzled sailor in the corner perked up at the drawing.


    "That shape¡­" he muttered, his voice rough but curious. "Reminds me of an old tale. The ''Shifting Isle,'' they called it. Supposedly somewhere off the western seas, beyond the trade routes. No one''s ever come back from trying to find it."


    I leaned in, intrigued. "The Shifting Isle? Why is it called that?"


    The sailor chuckled darkly. "Because it ain''t always there. The ocean swallows it up, or the mists hide it, or maybe it''s just a myth. But if you''re looking for strange places, that''s your best bet."


    The chat was buzzing with theories.


    : The Shifting Isle? That sounds like something the Forgotten would be tied to.


    : Maybe the island isn''t fixed. What if it moves, like a living dungeon?


    : Tsukasa, this feels like it''s leading to something huge. You have to check it out.


    I thanked the sailor, his cryptic clues adding another layer to the mystery. If the Shifting Isle truly existed, it would be a challenge to find, let alone reach. But with the crystal as my guide and the Forgotten''s legacy driving me forward, I couldn''t ignore the pull of this new adventure.


    The next step was preparing for the journey. I returned to the inn where I''d left most of my gear, taking stock of what I had and what I would need. Kijin and Raijuu rested near the window, their postures relaxed but their eyes watchful. I could tell they were ready for whatever came next, their loyalty unwavering.


    "Chat," I said, turning the camera toward my supplies, "this isn''t just another dungeon dive. We''re heading into uncharted territory. It''s going to take more than the usual gear to make it out there."


    The chat was quick with suggestions.


    : You''ll need a sturdy boat, for starters. No way you''re swimming to a shifting island.


    : Stock up on supplies. Who knows what''s on that island¡ªor how long you''ll be there.


    : Don''t forget to bring extra food for Kijin and Raijuu! They earned it.


    I made a mental checklist, jotting down notes as I planned the expedition. The Shifting Isle, if it existed, would require navigation tools, survival gear, and more than a little luck. But something about the journey felt right, as though the Forgotten themselves were urging me forward.


    The crystal''s faint hum pulsed again, and I glanced at it, the glow steady and calm. It was as if it was waiting, guiding, trusting me to take the next step.


    By the time I finished organizing my supplies, the sun was setting, casting a warm orange glow over the town. I stood at the edge of the dock, the cool breeze carrying the scent of saltwater and adventure. In the distance, the ocean stretched endlessly, its surface glittering in the fading light.


    Kijin and Raijuu stood beside me, their eyes fixed on the horizon. The chat was quieter now, their messages filled with a mix of excitement and reverence.


    : This is it. The next step in the Forgotten''s story.


    : Tsukasa, you''re about to venture into something legendary.


    : Whatever happens, we''re here with you. Let''s find the Shifting Isle.


    I glanced at the crystal one last time, its glow pulsing in sync with the rhythm of the waves. This journey wasn''t just about uncovering a story¡ªit was about understanding a legacy that had been hidden for centuries, waiting for someone to carry it forward

 Chapter 144 - 144: Setting Sail for the Unknown

    As the preparations for the journey to the elusive Shifting Isle wrapped up, the reality of what lay ahead began to sink in. Each item I packed was chosen for resilience and versatility, necessary for the unpredictable conditions of a possibly mythic destination. Kijin, always alert, seemed to understand the significance of our preparations, watching over our equipment with a protective eye, while Raijuu occasionally inspected items with a curious sniff.


    The chat, ever a source of mixed sentiments, kept my spirits in check with their usual blend of humor and skepticism.


    : Hope you packed some ghost repellent, Tsukasa. You might run into some Forgotten spirits!


    : Are we betting on whether this island will actually be there? I''ve got $20 on it being just a fog bank.


    : Just don''t pull a Titanic on us. Make sure the captain isn''t all talk.


    With the additional safety gear like a satellite phone, and extra provisions including waterproof maps and ample food supplies, I felt as prepared as one could be. Captain Harrow, an old sailor with a face as weathered as the decks he trod, agreed to guide us. His familiarity with tales of the Shifting Isle, a place as shrouded in mystery as the Forgotten themselves, was both a boon and a warning.


    "The Shifting Isle ain''t no ordinary place," Captain Harrow warned as he examined my map, his finger tracing the vague outlines where I believed the island would be. "It appears and disappears like a ghost on the sea. I''ll take you there, but getting ashore, that''s on you."


    The chat was quick to chime in with their thoughts on Captain Harrow.


    : That captain looks like he knows his way around a sea tale or two. Bet he''s seen some weird stuff!


    : If he''s scared of this island, you know it''s bad news. Or he''s just seen too many movies.


    : Better listen to the man, Tsukasa. No heroics, especially with Kijin and Raijuu on board.


    Armed with this knowledge and the community''s input, we charted a course that would hopefully intersect with the mythical location. Clear weather and favorable winds marked our departure day, adding a rare optimism to the expedition. The journey by sea would take several days, traveling into less chartered waters.


    The morning we set sail, I broadcasted live, showing the bustling activity at the port, our modest but sturdy vessel, and the open sea that awaited us. The sunlight danced on the waves, promising a calm start to what could be the most extraordinary journey yet.


    : This is it, everyone! We''re off to find a ghost island. What could go wrong?


    : Make sure someone keeps an eye on the captain. He might be a ghost too!


    : Bring me back a mermaid, Tsukasa! Or at least some good stories.


    As the boat pulled away from the dock, familiar landmarks faded into the background, replaced by the expansive, seemingly endless sea. The pulse of the crystal around my neck beat in time with the rhythm of the waves, a constant reminder of the Forgotten and their hidden legacies.


    Captain Harrow navigated with a seasoned hand, steering us into deeper waters where the blue of the sea met the sky at the horizon. Kijin and Raijuu appeared at ease, their calm a stark contrast to the churning anticipation I felt inside.


    The chat''s messages scrolled on my screen, a lifeline back to the familiar as we sailed into the unknown.


    : Watching this makes me want to go on an adventure. Or just makes me seasick.


    : There''s something poetic about sailing off to find a lost island. Just don''t forget to come back.


    : Keep that crystal close, Tsukas. It''s probably the key to everything.


    As the coastline vanished behind us, leaving only open water ahead, the sense of isolation grew. But it was an isolation filled with purpose. The Forgotten''s map, etched into the crystal, was more than a guide; it was a testament to a hidden history waiting to be revealed, one that could change our understanding of the past.


    I turned the camera to capture a final shot of the disappearing land, then back to face the open sea.


    "We''re on our way," I said, my voice steady despite the swell of emotions. "To the Shifting Isle, to uncover the Forgotten''s secrets. Whatever we find, it''s a journey worth taking."


    With that, we sailed onward, the horizon wide and open, the mysteries of the Shifting Isle calling us forth. This journey wasn''t just a quest for answers; it was an expedition to connect the present with the forgotten past, a voyage that might well reshape the stories we thought we knew.


    The morning of our departure was marked by a flurry of activity at the bustling port. The salty air was filled with the cries of seagulls and the rumble of boats as adventurers, traders, and fishermen prepared for their respective journeys. The sea, a vibrant canvas of blues and greens, lapped gently at the docks, as if beckoning us to unveil its secrets.


    Captain Harrow, a seasoned sailor whose face bore the etchings of countless storms and sunlit days, supervised the loading of the last of our supplies. Each crate and barrel secured onto our modest vessel felt like a promise to the Forgotten¡ªto carry their legacy across the waters to a place that may or may not exist on any modern map.


    "Remember, lad," Captain Harrow said, his voice gruff but not unkind, "the sea is a mistress who does not forgive easily. Keep your wits about you."


    Kijin and Raijuu, ever the faithful companions, inspected every inch of the deck. Kijin''s ears twitched with every new scent and sound, while Raijuu seemed particularly interested in the ropes and knots that the crew handled with practiced ease.


    The chat, always ready with a quip or a word of caution, kept my spirits high.


    : Just don''t let Captain Harrow steer you into the Bermuda Triangle or something!


    : Can Kijin and Raijuu swim? Just in case you guys decide to find Atlantis instead!


    : Seriously, though, take care of yourself and the boys. This isn''t your usual dungeon crawl.


    As the last of the supplies were stowed away, and the crew made final checks on the vessel, I took a moment to stream a walk-through of our boat. The deck was compact but efficiently arranged, with access to navigation tools, emergency gear, and, crucially, a sturdy cabin that would provide some comfort during the unpredictable voyage.


    "Here''s where we''ll be spending the next few days, chat," I explained as the camera panned over the vessel. "It''s no luxury liner, but she''s got character and, more importantly, a seasoned captain and crew."


    : She looks sturdy enough! And look at that view¡ªworth any sea sickness, IMO.


    : This is going to be epic, Tsukas. Following this every step of the way!


    : Make sure to teach Raijuu some pirate speak, haha!


    Laughter echoed on the deck as the crew joined in with the chat''s banter, their earlier tension easing slightly with the camaraderie.


    Finally, with everything and everyone aboard, Captain Harrow gave the signal, and the lines were cast off. The engine hummed to life, and our vessel began to ease away from the dock, the town slowly receding into the background as we headed into the open sea.


    The transition from the calm harbor to the open sea was gradual. The waves grew taller, and the wind picked up, filling the sails and tugging at my hair. The sun climbed higher, casting a dazzling glare over the water that made the horizon shimmer.


    As the shoreline vanished, a profound sense of isolation settled over me. Here, away from the safety and familiarity of land, the reality of our quest became palpable. We were sailing toward a destination that might not welcome us, guided only by a crystal that pulsed with the essence of a civilization long forgotten.


    : It''s like you''re sailing off the edge of the map, Tsukasa. Here there be monsters!


    : No turning back now! What''s the first thing you''re going to do when you see the island?


    : Keep an eye on that crystal. It''s not just a guide; it''s your connection to the Forgotten.


    The crystal, secured around my neck, seemed to resonate with the deeper waters, its glow pulsing softly in rhythm with the waves. It felt alive, almost aware of its proximity to its ancient homeland. I held it occasionally, comforted by its warmth and the secrets it held.


    Captain Harrow navigated with an unerring sense of direction, consulting old nautical maps and occasionally the crystal''s glow, which seemed to act as a beacon, pulling us toward the mysterious Shifting Isle.


    The days passed with a monotonous blend of waves, wind, and wide-open sky. Each morning brought with it a brief hope of sighting land, but the horizon remained stubbornly empty. The routine of life at sea set in¡ªmeals in the small galley, checks on the equipment, nightly checks of the stars for navigation.


    Kijin and Raijuu adapted to the life on board, finding their sea legs faster than I did. Raijuu seemed particularly enamored with the gulls that followed our boat, chirping at them from the safety of the deck.


    The chat kept me company, their messages a lifeline back to the world I had left behind.


    : Are we there yet? Feels like you''ve been at sea forever!


    : How are the boys handling the voyage? Better than the humans, I bet.


    : This is the calm before the storm, Tsukasa. When you find the island, it''s going to be a storm of a different kind.


    On the seventh day, as the sun rose, a thick fog settled over the ocean, enveloping our boat in a ghostly mist. Visibility dropped, and the world shrank to the immediate vicinity around us. The air grew colder, and the crystal''s pulse quickened, as if excited or perhaps anxious about what lay hidden in the fog.


    Captain Harrow slowed the boat, his eyes scanning the opaque whiteness that surrounded us. "This might be it," he murmured, his voice low. "The Shifting Isle likes to hide in such mists."


    The chat exploded with anticipation.


    : This is it, guys! The island has to be close!


    : Spooky fog is always a good sign in stories, right? Right??


    : You''re about to make history, Tsukasa. This is what adventure looks like. S§×ar?h the ¦ÇovelFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As I stood at the bow, the crystal glowing against the fog, a shadow loomed ahead. Slowly, a rocky shore emerged from the mist, its cliffs jagged and unwelcoming. But it was land¡ªundeniable and solid.


    "We''ve found it," I whispered, almost in disbelief, as the shape of the island grew clearer. "The Shifting Isle."


    Cheers erupted from the chat and the crew alike, their excitement piercing the solemnity of our approach.


    : Land ho! Can''t believe you actually found it!


    : What''s waiting on that island, I wonder? Treasure? Secrets? Forgotten history for sure!


    : Careful, Tsukas. This is where the real adventure begins.


    As the island welcomed us with its rugged shores, I knew that whatever we discovered here would redefine the Forgotten''s story and our understanding of history.

 Chapter 145 - 145: Voyage to the Shifting Isle

    The morning of our departure was ripe with the salty tang of adventure as the bustling port teemed with activity. Sailors shouted commands, ropes thudded against wooden docks, and seagulls cried overhead, creating a symphony of maritime life. Amid this chaos, the


    Wanderer


    , our sturdy vessel, bobbed gently at her berth, ready to carry us into the unknown.


    Kijin, with her characteristic mix of zest and mischief, inspected every inch of the ship. Her comments about the ropes and sails, laced with her usual playful innuendos, drew chuckles and occasional shakes of the head from the seasoned crew. Despite her antics, her presence added a vibrant energy that seemed to lighten the weight of the impending journey.


    The chat, never far behind, was actively engaged, offering last-minute advice and their typical jests.


    : Watch Kijin doesn''t tie the crew up in knots with that rope!


    : Hope you guys stocked up on sea sickness potions, especially with Kijin stirring up a storm!


    : This is it, Tsukasa! Man, feels like we''re all setting sail with you. Can''t wait to see that island appear!


    With the final supplies loaded and the crew ready, Captain Harrow, a veteran of the seas whose face was etched with lines of countless voyages, called everyone to order. His gruff voice carried authority and reassurance as he outlined the route based on the coordinates provided by the crystal''s pulsing energy.


    "Our course is set for the edges of the charted waters," Captain Harrow announced, pointing to a map that showed our speculative path. "The Shifting Isle isn''t marked on any modern map, but the legends and this young man''s crystal suggest we''re in for quite the journey."


    The ship set sail under a clear blue sky, with the wind favorable and the seas calm. As the coastline shrank behind us, I felt a stirring of excitement mixed with a dash of apprehension¡ªthe open sea was both a beautiful and formidable expanse.


    Kijin took to the bow, her eyes scanning the horizon. Despite her usual flippancy, there was a seriousness to her stance¡ªa recognition of the dangers we might face. Raijuu, ever her shadow, paced restlessly, his senses attuned to the new environment.


    The chat buzzed with excitement and a touch of anxiety:


    : That horizon looks endless. Kind of scary how vast the ocean is.


    : Kijin at the bow feels like something out of a movie. Just need some epic music now!


    : Stay sharp, everyone. Who knows what kind of creatures you''ll find, especially near a place called the Shifting Isle.


    As days passed, the initial excitement gave way to the routine of sea life. The endless blue of the sky met the darker blue of the sea at a distant, hazy line. Days rolled into nights marked by starry skies and the bioluminescent glow of marine life, painting streaks of light beneath the waves.


    Captain Harrow navigated with a steady hand, often consulting the pulsing crystal, which seemed to glow brighter as we ventured further into uncharted waters. I spent long hours learning from him, understanding the subtle signs of the sea and sky that guided seasoned sailors.


    : Is it just me, or does the crystal seem to be getting more excited the closer you get?


    : Learning to sail, fighting monsters, finding lost islands¡ªwhat can''t Tsukasa do?


    : Keep an eye on that compass and the stars, Captain! Old-school navigation for the win!


    On the fourth night, a dense fog rolled in, swallowing the stars and dampening the sounds of the sea. Visibility dropped to mere meters, and even the wind seemed to hold its breath. The temperature dropped, and a palpable tension settled over the ship.


    "I don''t like this," Captain Harrow muttered, peering into the gloom. "This fog is unnatural. Stay alert."


    Kijin and Raijuu were at my side instantly, their senses heightened. The crystal around my neck throbbed with a steady pulse, as if it recognized the fog as a curtain before the final act.


    : This fog is super creepy. Feels like something out of a ghost story.


    : Are we sure this island isn''t haunted? Because this is how you get haunted islands.


    : Whatever''s waiting in that fog, you''ve got this, Tsukasa. We''re all here with you, in spirit if not in body!


    As the fog thickened, a shadow loomed ahead. Slowly, the outline of an island emerged from the mist, its cliffs jagged and unwelcoming, yet unmistakably solid. The Shifting Isle was real, and it lay before us, shrouded in mystery and mist.


    Cheers and gasps echoed through the chat as the island materialized:


    : HOLY¡ªYou actually found it! THE ISLAND IS REAL!


    : That reveal was perfect! Like something straight out of a movie!


    : What''s the bet this island has some crazy secret? Treasure, monsters, or maybe the key to the Forgotten''s past?


    Captain Harrow steered us closer, his experienced hands guiding the ship deftly through the perilous waters. The crew was tense, ready for any danger that might arise from the mysterious island.


    As we approached the shore, the crystal''s glow intensified, casting eerie shadows on the deck. The island''s presence was overwhelming¡ªa palpable sense of history and secrets long buried. We were on the brink of uncovering truths that had been lost to the sea of time.


    : Landing on the Shifting Isle... This is what adventure looks like.


    : Be careful, everyone. Who knows what you''ll find onshore.


    : This is history in the making. Tsukasa, you''re about to rewrite the books.


    With the island now firmly in sight, preparations began for landing. The possibilities of what lay ahead were as vast as the ocean behind us. We were no longer just explorers; we were pioneers on the edge of a new discovery.


    As I ended the stream for the day, promising to return with updates once we made landfall, I couldn''t help but feel a mix of dread and excitement. The Shifting Isle awaited, and with it, the next chapter in our extraordinary journey.


    "Let''s uncover the secrets of the Shifting Isle," I said to the crew, the chat''s enthusiastic support ringing in my ears as we prepared to dock. The adventure was far from over; in many ways, it was just beginning. S§×ar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 146 - 146: Depths of Discovery

    The early morning light filtered through the dense canopy, casting a patterned glow across the clearing. The ancient altar at the camp''s center continued to emit a soft radiance, a constant reminder of the evening''s revelations. The carved symbols, which we had decoded during the night, seemed to point out paths leading deeper into the island, hinting at a network of significant locations sprawled across its hidden expanse.


    Kijin, whose affinity for decoding arcane signs had proved invaluable, detailed her findings over a quick breakfast. "These aren''t mere decorations; they''re directive markers, almost like signposts leading to other important sites on the island," she explained, her voice carrying a mix of excitement and seriousness.


    Raijuu, always sensitive to the subtleties of our surroundings, paced nearby, his demeanor indicating a mix of alertness and unease¡ªa reminder that the island''s mysteries were closely guarded.


    The chat was alive with speculation and advice:


    : This is turning into a real-life adventure game! What''s the next clue?


    : Could you show us the symbols? Maybe we can help figure out more.


    : Remember, every step into the unknown is a risk. Stay sharp, team.


    Acknowledging their input, I decided to trace the path indicated by the most prominent symbol on the altar. "We''re heading northeast, deeper into the forest," I announced, shouldering my pack and preparing for the day''s trek. Sear?h the N?velFire.n§×t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Captain Harrow and the crew, tasked with maintaining the camp, ensured our temporary base was secure. With preparations complete, Kijin led the way, her keen eyes scouting ahead, while Raijuu, ever vigilant, covered our flank.


    The forest changed as we ventured deeper; ancient trees towered overhead, their massive trunks blanketed in thick moss and lichen, a testament to the island''s age. The air grew cooler under the dense canopy, the filtered sunlight barely reaching the forest floor, enveloping us in a perpetual twilight.


    : Those trees are like something out of a fairytale. How old do you think they are?


    : Feels like you''ve stepped into a lost world. Be careful, anything could be hiding in there.


    : That moss could cover anything. Watch where you step!


    After a few hours of hiking, we reached a secluded valley enclosed by high rock faces. At its heart was a clear spring, bubbling up from the earth, its waters catching the light with an unnatural shimmer. Surrounding the spring were more symbols, echoing those at the altar but with slight variations that suggested different uses or meanings.


    "It seems we''ve found one of the waypoints the altar was pointing to," I noted, examining the intricate carvings around the spring. Kijin agreed, her excitement palpable as she traced her fingers over the cool stone.


    : That spring looks magical. Can you feel any power coming from it?


    : What if the water is enchanted? Tsukasa, try touching it!


    I dipped my hands into the spring, feeling an immediate rush of energy. The crystal around my neck reacted, glowing brighter as it came into contact with the water. "There''s a strong connection here. This spring is tied to the same network of energy that powers the altar," I observed.


    Tenko, always observant, added, "The water is infused with mana. It''s not just pure; it''s potent, possibly used to enhance magical abilities or even rejuvenate the local flora and fauna."


    We collected samples of the water, planning to analyze its properties back at camp. Raijuu, seeming reassured by our calm, drank from the spring, his body relaxing as he quenched his thirst.


    : Raijuu''s got the right idea. If it''s good for him, it must be safe.


    : I love how everything on this island is connected through these magical networks!


    With new clues in hand and the day still young, we decided to push on to the next waypoint. The symbols had mapped out a route that suggested a circular path through the island''s landmarks.


    "We''ll continue to follow the trail marked by the symbols. There''s more to uncover, and each discovery seems to be a piece of a larger puzzle," I concluded, rallying the group for the journey ahead.


    Resuming our exploration, we ventured deeper into the mysteries of the Shifting Isle, each step uncovering layers of history entwined with the natural beauty of the untouched wilderness.


    The early rays of dawn pierced through the dense canopy, illuminating the clearing where our camp lay nestled against the backdrop of ancient woods. The previous night''s discovery at the altar had shifted the energy of our expedition from cautious exploration to fervent quest. The symbols, intricately carved into the ancient stone, now translated into a map that beckoned us deeper into the heart of the Shifting Isle.


    Kijin was already up, her keen eyes scanning the symbols once more, her mind piecing together the potential routes and their historical significance. Over a breakfast of campfire-cooked meals, she shared her insights, her voice infused with a blend of excitement and resolve. "These markers aren''t arbitrary; they form a network that spans the entire island, possibly linking other relics or sites of power."


    Raijuu, sensing the shift in our mission, patrolled the perimeter of the camp, his instincts on high alert for any disturbances within the mysterious forest. His presence was reassuring, a reminder of the untamed nature of our surroundings.


    The chat, ever a source of encouragement and curiosity, buzzed with anticipation:


    : This island is like a giant puzzle waiting for you to put the pieces together!


    : Can you show us the map again? Maybe we can help spot something you missed.


    : Stay safe out there¡ªthis feels like you''re on the brink of a major discovery!


    With their encouragement ringing in our ears, I led our team to the northeast, following the most pronounced trail indicated by the altar. Our gear packed and spirits high, we ventured deeper into the forest, the air growing cooler and the path gradually enveloping us within its ancient embrace.


    The forest''s transition was palpable; the trees grew taller, their trunks wider and covered in thick moss that dampened our footsteps. The canopy overhead wove a dense tapestry of leaves, filtering the sunlight into mere fragments that dappled the forest floor.


    : Those trees must have stood here for centuries. Imagine the secrets they could tell.


    : It''s like walking into a natural cathedral. There''s a sacred feel to it.


    : Be careful, Tsukasa. Such beauty can be deceptive, especially in uncharted territories.


    After several hours of hiking through this primeval landscape, we reached a secluded valley cradled by steep rock faces. At its center, a clear spring bubbled up from the earth, its waters crystal clear and shimmering under the occasional beam of light that penetrated the dense canopy. Surrounding the spring were additional symbols, each carved into the rocky basin, mirroring those found at the altar but with subtle differences that suggested unique significance.


    "It appears we''ve discovered one of the waypoints marked by the altar," I announced, examining the carvings with a mix of awe and curiosity. Kijin, equally fascinated, traced the symbols with her fingers, her magical sensitivity allowing her to feel the energy pulsating from the stone.


    : That spring looks like something out of a fantasy book. Does it have any special properties?


    : The carvings are so intricate. There must be a reason this spot was marked.


    I reached out to touch the water, feeling a surge of energy as my fingers made contact. The crystal around my neck responded, glowing with increased intensity, its light reflecting off the water and illuminating the carvings in a ghostly dance of shadows and light.


    "The spring is directly connected to the energy network we''re tracing. It''s not just water; it''s a conduit of power," I shared, my voice filled with excitement. Tenko, examining the water''s properties, nodded in agreement, "The mana concentration here is extraordinary. It could enhance magical abilities or serve as a regenerative source for the island''s ecosystem."


    Collecting samples of the water for further analysis seemed prudent. Raijuu, ever the practical member of our team, took a cautious sip, then relaxed, seemingly approving of the water''s purity.


    : Looks like Raijuu has given his seal of approval!


    : I''m amazed at how everything on this island is interconnected. It''s like a giant puzzle.


    With the sun climbing higher and the day warming, we prepared to continue our exploration. The next waypoint, according to the map we''d pieced together from the altar''s clues, lay further to the east, deeper into the heart of the island.


    "We''ll follow the path laid out by these markers. There''s more to uncover, and each step we take unravels more of this island''s secrets," I declared, rallying the team as we packed up our gear.


    As we resumed our trek, the forest seemed to watch, its ancient trees whispering secrets in the wind. The path wound its way through thick underbrush and over streams lined with smooth stones, each turn and ford a reminder of the island''s untouched beauty and mysterious past.


    : This is getting more intriguing by the minute. What do you think you''ll find next?


    : It feels like you''re walking through a living museum of natural history. Keep the updates coming!


    : Be on the lookout for anything unusual. You never know what''s hidden in such an ancient place.


    After collecting water samples and documenting the waypoint, we prepared to move toward the next marker indicated by the altar''s map. The symbols suggested another site of significance deeper within the forest, likely holding more clues about the Shifting Isle''s history. With gear secured and the spring behind us, we began the trek east, pushing further into the dense wilderness.

 Chapter 147 - 147: The Second Waypoint

    The trek eastward from the spring led us deeper into the Shifting Isle''s untamed wilderness. The forest, dense and imposing, seemed to grow darker with every step, the canopy above tightening as ancient trees loomed taller. Despite the eeriness, the path carved out by the symbols from the altar remained visible, though faint, guiding us with its mysterious precision.


    Kijin took the lead as usual, her sharp senses attuned to the subtleties of the environment. Raijuu prowled at our side, his eyes constantly scanning for movement, his ears flicking at every sound. The faint hum of the crystal around my neck was a steady reminder that we were on the right path.


    "Keep your eyes open," I said, breaking the silence. "The markers have been consistent so far, but that doesn''t mean we''re out of danger."


    Kijin glanced over her shoulder, grinning. "Relax, Tsukasa. If something pops out, I''ll just charm it into submission."


    "Or irritate it into attacking us," I muttered, earning a quiet snicker from Tenko.


    The chat kept pace with their usual mix of humor and helpfulness:


    : If Kijin''s at the front, you''ll probably find trouble sooner rather than later.


    : Does the crystal''s glow get stronger the closer you get? It seems reactive.


    : Keep Raijuu fed! If anything dangerous shows up, he''ll handle it.


    The trek wasn''t without its challenges. Thick roots snaked across the ground, forming natural obstacles that threatened to trip the unwary. Occasionally, strange sounds echoed through the forest¡ªdistant calls or the rustle of unseen creatures moving through the underbrush. It wasn''t enough to alarm us, but it kept everyone on edge.


    After several hours, the dense forest gave way to a rocky incline. The path turned steep, forcing us to climb carefully over uneven terrain. At the top of the incline, we found a plateau, where the forest parted to reveal another ancient structure¡ªa monolithic stone obelisk, its surface etched with the same symbols we''d encountered before.


    The obelisk towered above us, its presence commanding. It was weathered by time, yet its carvings remained sharp, as though protected by some unseen force. Around its base, smaller stones were arranged in a circular pattern, their surfaces covered in faintly glowing glyphs.


    "We''ve found it," I said, approaching the structure cautiously. The crystal''s pulse grew stronger with every step, its light intensifying in response to the obelisk''s energy.


    The chat''s excitement was palpable:


    : That obelisk looks ancient! What does it do?


    : It''s glowing¡ªthis has to be connected to the first waypoint.


    : Be careful touching it. What if it''s a trap or activates something dangerous?


    Kijin circled the obelisk, her fingers brushing lightly against the carvings. "This is incredible. The energy here is different from the spring¡ªmore intense, almost like it''s concentrated."


    Raijuu sniffed the air, his body tense but not aggressive. He seemed wary, as though sensing a latent power within the structure.


    I held the crystal close to the obelisk, watching as the light from both began to sync. Suddenly, the obelisk responded with a low hum, and the glyphs at its base flared brightly, illuminating the plateau.


    "What''s happening?" Tenko asked, her voice calm but alert.


    Before I could respond, the light from the obelisk coalesced into a beam that shot upward, piercing the canopy and disappearing into the sky. For a moment, the entire area was bathed in its glow, the glyphs pulsing in rhythmic patterns.


    : WHAT WAS THAT?! Did the obelisk just signal something?


    : This feels like a beacon. What if it''s calling something¡ªor someone?


    : That''s either really good or really bad. Be on guard!


    As the beam faded, the glyphs dimmed, leaving behind an eerie silence. The obelisk returned to its dormant state, but the energy in the air remained charged.


    "That wasn''t random," I said, stepping back from the structure. "It was a signal. The question is, to whom or what?"


    Kijin nodded, her expression unusually serious. "This island has layers we''re only beginning to uncover. Whatever that signal was for, it means the next waypoint is even more important."


    We documented everything¡ªimages of the glyphs, readings from the crystal''s reaction, and the residual energy patterns left by the beam. The obelisk had given us more questions than answers, but it was clear that we were following a trail left intentionally.


    With the plateau mapped and the obelisk''s energy recorded, we prepared to descend toward the next marker. The forest loomed ahead, its shadows deeper than before, as though the island itself was reacting to our progress.


    The forest seemed to tighten its grip on us as we pressed deeper into the Shifting Isle. The trees grew denser, their massive trunks wrapped in thick vines that snaked upward toward the impenetrable canopy. The air was cool and damp, heavy with the scent of moss and earth. Even the light seemed reluctant to enter this part of the island, casting long, distorted shadows across the path ahead.


    Kijin walked at the front, her steps light despite the uneven terrain. Her sharp eyes darted from side to side, scanning for any signs of danger¡ªor opportunity. Raijuu padded silently beside her, his nose low to the ground, sniffing at the faint scents that only he could detect. Tenko brought up the rear, her focus divided between monitoring our surroundings and recording the journey on her camera for posterity¡ªand the chat.


    The chat, ever vocal, filled my wrist-mounted screen with a mix of humor, advice, and questions:


    : That forest is starting to look like something out of a horror movie. Be careful!


    : Kijin seems way too excited about this. Watch her doesn''t start poking at ancient traps.


    : Raijuu''s on high alert. That''s either really good or really bad.


    We''d been trekking for over an hour since leaving the spring, the path indicated by the altar''s symbols leading us into increasingly rugged terrain. The forest floor, once carpeted with soft moss, now gave way to jagged roots and rocky outcroppings that made every step a calculated effort.


    "This path isn''t just old¡ªit''s designed to keep people out," Kijin observed, pausing to examine a cluster of stones arranged unnaturally in the undergrowth. "These are markers, subtle but intentional. Whoever created this trail didn''t want it easily followed."


    "Or they didn''t want it forgotten," I replied, the crystal around my neck pulsing faintly. Its steady rhythm was a reassuring presence, a beacon guiding us toward something larger than ourselves. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The climb grew steeper, forcing us to slow our pace. Large boulders jutted from the earth, and we had to use our hands to steady ourselves as we ascended the incline. At the top, the forest opened slightly, revealing a plateau dominated by a massive stone obelisk. The structure stood tall and imposing, its weathered surface covered in intricate carvings that matched the symbols from the altar and spring.


    The obelisk''s presence was commanding, exuding an air of purpose and power. Around its base, smaller stones were arranged in a circular pattern, their surfaces etched with faintly glowing glyphs.


    "We''ve reached it," I said, the crystal pulsing more intensely now. The connection between it and the obelisk was undeniable, their energies resonating in a way that made the air around us feel charged.


    The chat reacted instantly:


    : That obelisk is incredible. It looks ancient but still so well-preserved.


    : Is it another waypoint? Or something more important?


    : Whatever it is, be careful. The energy here feels... alive.


    Kijin approached the obelisk with a mix of caution and awe, her fingers tracing the carvings. "This energy... it''s different from the spring. Stronger, more focused. It''s like the obelisk is the heart of something."


    Raijuu prowled the perimeter of the clearing, his body tense, ears swiveling as if picking up sounds too faint for human hearing. His behavior put us all on edge, a silent reminder that we weren''t alone here.


    As I stepped closer to the obelisk, the crystal''s glow intensified, its rhythm syncing with the glyphs carved into the stone. Tentatively, I held the crystal toward the structure. The moment they connected, the obelisk emitted a deep hum that vibrated through the air and into my chest.


    The glyphs flared brightly, their light spreading across the stones at the obelisk''s base. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, a beam of light shot upward from the obelisk, piercing through the dense canopy and illuminating the sky above. For a moment, the entire plateau was bathed in radiant light, the forest around us seeming to retreat from its brilliance.


    The chat exploded with messages:


    : WHAT WAS THAT?! It''s like the obelisk sent a signal!


    : That beam definitely means something. What if it''s calling for help¡ªor warning something?


    : This is beyond anything I expected. You''re making history here, Tsukasa!


    The beam lingered for a few seconds before fading, leaving the obelisk glowing faintly. The clearing fell silent once more, the air heavy with an unspoken tension.


    "That wasn''t random," I said, lowering the crystal. "The obelisk is a transmitter¡ªor a beacon. It''s sending a signal to something¡ªor someone."


    Kijin stepped back from the obelisk, her expression uncharacteristically serious. "Whatever it''s calling, it''s not small. This island is hiding more than just ancient history."


    We documented everything meticulously: images of the glyphs, readings from the crystal, and the lingering energy patterns left by the beam. The obelisk''s role in the island''s network was clear, but its purpose remained a mystery. Was it a call for help? A warning? Or something else entirely?


    "We need to move," I said after a moment, my voice firm. "This obelisk is important, but it''s not the end of the trail. The altar''s map shows more markers, and if they''re anything like this, they''ll bring us closer to understanding what''s really going on here."


    Kijin nodded, her usual levity tempered by the weight of our discovery. Raijuu, still on high alert, took the lead as we began our descent from the plateau. The forest closed in around us once more, the dense canopy swallowing the light and plunging us back into the eerie twilight of the Shifting Isle.


    The silence was oppressive, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant calls of unseen creatures. The obelisk''s signal had changed the atmosphere; the island felt alive now, as if it had noticed our presence.


    The path ahead twisted and turned, leading us deeper into the island''s hidden heart. The next waypoint was waiting, and with it, more pieces of a puzzle that was quickly becoming far more significant than any of us had anticipated.

 Chapter 148 - 148: Shadows in the Forest

    Descending from the plateau, the forest swallowed us once more, its oppressive silence thicker than before. Every rustle of leaves, every faint chirp of unseen wildlife, felt magnified. The obelisk''s signal had changed something, not just in the atmosphere but in us. We moved with heightened caution, every step deliberate.


    Raijuu led the way, his posture tense and his ears flicking toward faint noises in the underbrush. Kijin followed closely, her sharp gaze darting between the gnarled roots and tangled vines that lined the narrow path. She wasn''t speaking, which was unusual. Her quiet focus said more about the gravity of our situation than any sarcastic quip ever could.


    The chat mirrored the tension in the group, their usual banter interspersed with real concern:


    : That signal definitely did something. The forest feels... different.


    : Anyone else notice how quiet Kijin is? That''s not a good sign.


    : Raijuu''s on edge. If even he''s spooked, you guys need to stay sharp.


    Despite the growing unease, we pressed on. The altar''s map had marked another waypoint further to the east, and the faint hum of the crystal was still guiding us in that direction. The path twisted through dense thickets and over uneven terrain, forcing us to move slowly. The deeper we went, the darker it became, as though the forest itself was conspiring to obscure the way forward.


    After an hour of trudging through the increasingly hostile terrain, the path opened into a small clearing. At its center was a stone archway, half-covered in moss and vines, its ancient structure tilted slightly but still standing firm. Carvings adorned the archway, similar to the glyphs on the obelisk but less intricate. The air around it felt heavier, charged with a faint, static energy.


    "This must be the next marker," I said, stepping cautiously toward the archway. The crystal around my neck pulsed faintly, its light syncing with the glyphs as I approached.


    Kijin circled the archway, her fingers brushing against the carvings. "This is definitely part of the same network, but it''s different. Less powerful than the obelisk, but still significant."


    Raijuu sniffed at the base of the structure, growling softly. Tenko, standing at the edge of the clearing, scanned the surroundings with her camera, her sharp eyes missing nothing.


    : That archway looks like a gate. Do you think it''s functional?


    : Raijuu doesn''t like it. Might be a trap¡ªor worse.


    : The energy here is unsettling. Be careful, Tsukasa.


    As I examined the glyphs, the crystal''s pulse grew stronger, and a faint vibration traveled through the ground. Suddenly, the air inside the archway shimmered, like heat waves rising from hot asphalt. A low hum resonated from the structure, growing louder with each passing second.


    Before I could react, the shimmer intensified, and the archway seemed to flicker between solid stone and something else¡ªan inky void that stretched infinitely beyond its boundaries. The sound was deafening now, a deep, resonant thrum that vibrated in my chest.


    "Kijin, back off!" I called, stepping away from the archway just as a gust of wind burst from its center, scattering leaves and debris across the clearing. Raijuu barked sharply, his growls turning into full-blown snarls as the void stabilized.


    A shape emerged from the darkness¡ªa tall, humanoid figure clad in armor that shimmered like liquid metal. Its movements were unnaturally smooth, almost fluid, as though its body was adapting to the environment in real time. Its face, if it could be called that, was featureless, save for two glowing orbs where eyes should have been. S§×ar?h the N?vel(F)ire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    The chat exploded in a frenzy:


    : WHAT IS THAT?! Did the gate just summon something?


    : That''s not human. Definitely not friendly either.


    : Tsukasa, get out of there! This thing looks dangerous!


    The figure stepped forward, its glowing eyes fixed on me. It didn''t speak, but its presence radiated hostility. I instinctively reached for the crystal, its light flaring in response to the creature''s proximity. Kijin was already in motion, a glowing barrier forming around her hands as she prepared to intercept the intruder.


    "Raijuu, back up Kijin," I ordered, stepping to the side to give them space. "Tenko, keep watch for anything else."


    The creature moved with unsettling speed, closing the distance between us in seconds. Kijin met its charge head-on, her barrier clashing against its metallic frame with a sound like grinding steel. Sparks flew as they collided, the force of the impact reverberating through the clearing.


    Raijuu circled behind the creature, his movements fluid and precise. With a low growl, he leapt at its back, his claws raking against its armor. The creature staggered but didn''t falter, its form shifting unnaturally as it twisted to face Raijuu.


    The fight was brutal and fast-paced, the clearing lit by flashes of energy as Kijin and Raijuu worked in tandem to keep the creature at bay. It was clear, however, that their attacks weren''t doing much damage. The creature''s body seemed to absorb impacts, its metallic surface rippling like water with each strike.


    The chat was in full-blown panic mode:


    : It''s adapting to your attacks! You need a new strategy!


    : Kijin''s barrier is holding, but for how long?


    : Raijuu''s giving it his all, but this thing isn''t going down easy.


    I gripped the crystal tightly, focusing its energy into a concentrated burst. A beam of light shot from the crystal, striking the creature square in the chest. It staggered, its glowing eyes dimming for a moment, but the effect was temporary. The creature recovered quickly, its form stabilizing as it turned its attention back to me.


    "Fall back!" I called to Kijin and Raijuu, realizing that brute force wasn''t going to work. "We need to regroup."


    Reluctantly, they retreated, keeping the creature at bay long enough for us to retreat into the forest. The archway shimmered again, the void within collapsing in on itself as the creature stepped back through, disappearing as suddenly as it had appeared.


    Breathing heavily, I leaned against a tree, the crystal''s light dimming as the tension eased. Kijin and Raijuu stood guard, their postures still alert, while Tenko scanned the area for any signs of pursuit.


    "We''re not dealing with just ancient relics anymore," I said, catching my breath. "Whatever that thing was, it''s tied to this island¡ªand it''s not going to let us uncover its secrets without a fight."


    We regrouped, gathering our scattered supplies and ensuring no one was injured. The archway stood silent now, its glyphs dim and unresponsive. Whatever it had summoned was gone, for now, but its presence lingered like a shadow over the clearing.


    After taking a moment to document the encounter and adjust our plans, we resumed our journey toward the next waypoint, the forest once again closing in around us.

 Chapter 149 - 149: Signs of Resistance

    We continued deeper into the forest, our nerves still frayed from the encounter at the archway. The trees seemed closer now, their trunks looming like silent sentinels as the light dimmed to a muted green. Every rustle of leaves or snap of a branch set us on edge, the memory of the humanoid creature lingering in the back of our minds.


    Raijuu stayed ahead of us, his movements cautious but precise. His growls had subsided, but his ears remained alert, swiveling at the faintest sound. Kijin walked beside me, uncharacteristically quiet, her focus directed at the path ahead. Even Tenko, usually a source of calm and commentary, kept her camera aimed at the surroundings in case anything else emerged from the shadows.


    The chat was unusually subdued, their messages tinged with concern:


    : That thing back there wasn''t just a guardian. It felt... intelligent.


    : What if the obelisk''s signal woke more of them up? You need to stay ready.


    : Raijuu''s doing his best, but even he seems uneasy. Something''s watching you.


    I checked the crystal, its glow faint but steady. The energy signature from the archway had faded, but the trail it had marked on the altar''s map remained clear. We were still heading toward the next waypoint, though what waited for us there was anyone''s guess.


    "We need to assume that creature wasn''t a one-off," I said, breaking the silence. "The island is reacting to us¡ªprotecting something."


    Tenko nodded, her voice low. "It''s possible the network of obelisks and markers isn''t just dormant. The signals could be triggering defenses."


    "Defenses or warnings," Kijin added, her tone laced with a mix of curiosity and unease. "Whatever this island is guarding, it doesn''t want us getting too close."


    The path began to slope downward, the underbrush growing thicker as we descended into a shallow ravine. The air grew cooler, and a faint mist clung to the ground, swirling around our feet as we moved. The ravine opened into a narrow clearing, where the remains of an ancient stone bridge spanned a slow-moving creek.


    The bridge, though partially collapsed, was still passable, its surface worn smooth by time. Carvings similar to the ones we''d seen on the obelisk adorned its sides, though they were heavily weathered and difficult to decipher.


    "This is definitely part of the same network," I said, examining the carvings. The crystal pulsed faintly, confirming the connection. "It''s another marker, but it''s more degraded than the others."


    Raijuu sniffed at the edge of the bridge, growling softly. Kijin followed his gaze, her eyes narrowing. "Something''s been here recently," she muttered. "The ground''s disturbed."


    The chat, as always, had their theories:


    : Tracks? Could it be the same creature from the archway?


    : That bridge looks ancient. Is it stable enough to cross?


    : Be careful. This feels like the kind of place where an ambush could happen.


    As we crossed the bridge, the mist thickened, obscuring the far side of the ravine. Raijuu froze halfway across, his growl turning into a sharp bark as he stared into the fog. The hair on the back of my neck stood on end, and I tightened my grip on the crystal.


    "Something''s here," Tenko said, her voice barely above a whisper.


    A shape emerged from the mist¡ªlow to the ground and moving quickly. It was followed by another, then another. Within seconds, a pack of creatures had materialized on the far side of the bridge. They were quadrupeds, their sleek, black forms blending into the shadows, their glowing red eyes the only indication of their presence.


    "Hostiles incoming," I said, stepping back and positioning myself behind Kijin and Raijuu. "Defensive formation."


    The creatures hesitated at the edge of the bridge, their bodies tense as they sized us up. They moved with an unnerving coordination, their heads swiveling in unison as they gauged our strengths and weaknesses.


    Kijin raised her hands, summoning her barrier with a flick of her fingers. The glowing shield shimmered into existence, spanning the width of the bridge. "You''re not getting past me, mutts," she said, her voice regaining some of its usual bravado.


    Raijuu snarled, his body low and his muscles coiled. The creatures responded with a chorus of guttural growls, their movements growing more agitated as they tested the barrier''s edges.


    The first creature lunged, its claws scraping against Kijin''s shield with a screech that sent sparks flying. Raijuu darted forward, his claws raking across its flank and sending it tumbling into the creek below. The rest of the pack followed, their attacks relentless as they clawed and bit at the barrier.


    The chat exploded with commentary:


    : They''re coordinated. This isn''t just random wildlife.


    : Kijin''s holding them off, but how long can she keep the barrier up?


    : Raijuu''s a beast! Look at him go!


    The fight was chaotic, the narrow bridge forcing the creatures to funnel into a bottleneck. Kijin''s barrier held strong, her magic flaring brightly every time it absorbed an impact. Raijuu moved with precision, his attacks swift and brutal as he picked off the creatures one by one.


    Despite our efforts, it was clear the pack wasn''t going to back down. Their numbers weren''t overwhelming, but their persistence and coordination made them a serious threat. I focused the crystal''s energy, directing a pulse of light toward the bridge. The beam struck the ground at the creatures'' feet, forcing them to scatter.


    "That''s enough," I said, stepping forward as the remaining creatures hesitated. "Fall back, or you''ll regret it."


    The creatures seemed to understand the threat. After a tense moment, they retreated, their glowing eyes disappearing into the mist. The forest fell silent once more, the only sound the gentle burbling of the creek below.


    Kijin lowered her barrier, exhaling sharply. "Well, that was fun. They weren''t pushovers."


    "Too organized to be random predators," Tenko added, scanning the bridge with her camera. "Something¡ªor someone¡ªsent them."


    We regrouped on the far side of the bridge, taking stock of the situation. Raijuu seemed unharmed, his posture relaxed now that the immediate threat had passed. Kijin, though visibly tired, remained unscathed.


    "The defenses are escalating," I said, turning the crystal over in my hands. "First the creature at the archway, now this pack. The island is pushing back harder the closer we get."


    "We need to keep moving," Tenko said. "Stopping now will only give it more time to adapt." sea??h th§× Nov§×l?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    I nodded, adjusting my gear as we prepared to move.

 Chapter 150 - 150: Whispers of the Forgotten

    The aftermath of the ambush at the bridge weighed heavily as we ventured deeper into the Shifting Isle. The creatures'' tactical retreat was no coincidence¡ªit was deliberate, calculated. Whatever intelligence controlled this island, it wasn''t acting blindly. Each step forward felt like trespassing further into a territory that didn''t want us there.


    Raijuu, ever vigilant, padded ahead with quiet precision. His ears twitched at every faint sound, and his nose constantly sampled the air for unfamiliar scents. Kijin walked just behind him, her usual lively banter replaced by an unnerving silence. Even Tenko, who typically balanced the tension with her calm commentary, was focused solely on scanning our surroundings.


    The forest grew darker as we pressed on, the canopy above thickening to block out the light entirely. The faint glow of the crystal around my neck became our only reliable source of illumination. Its pulsing light flickered in perfect sync with my heartbeat, as though it too felt the mounting tension.


    The chat mirrored our unease, their comments split between humor and concern:


    : The deeper you go, the more this place feels alive. It''s creepy.


    : Raijuu hasn''t relaxed for a second. That''s not a good sign.


    : Kijin''s too quiet. Did something break her? She usually never shuts up.


    The terrain began to shift, the once soft, mossy ground replaced by jagged rocks and patches of slippery mud. Gnarled roots twisted across the trail like natural traps, forcing us to slow our pace. The crystal''s glow brightened slightly, signaling that we were still on the right path.


    "We must be getting close," I said, my voice low but steady. "The crystal''s pulse is stronger here than it was at the spring."


    Kijin glanced over her shoulder, her lips pressed into a thin line. "Let''s hope whatever''s ahead isn''t another welcoming party."


    The sound of rushing water reached us as the trail curved upward. The noise grew louder with each step, until we crested a small hill and found ourselves overlooking a massive waterfall. The cascade of water tumbled into a deep basin below, its surface shimmering faintly in the dim light. At the center of the basin stood another structure¡ªa circular platform partially submerged in the water, its surface etched with carvings similar to those we''d seen before.


    "There it is," Tenko said, pointing toward the platform. Her voice carried a note of awe. "The next waypoint."


    The platform was surrounded by jagged rocks, their surfaces slick with moss and algae. The waterfall''s spray hung in the air like a fine mist, creating rainbows that danced in the weak light. The sight was both beautiful and foreboding.


    The chat lit up with excitement:


    : That platform looks ancient! Is it another transmitter like the obelisk?


    : The carvings are glowing. This place definitely has power.


    : Watch your step! That basin looks dangerous.


    We descended the rocky slope carefully, the uneven terrain making every step a calculated risk. Raijuu led the way, his movements deliberate as he tested each foothold. Kijin followed, her hands glowing faintly as she readied her barrier in case of another attack. Tenko moved with quiet efficiency, her camera capturing every detail of the scene.


    Reaching the edge of the basin, I could feel the crystal''s energy intensify. Its pulsing light grew stronger, casting eerie shadows on the slick rocks around us. The water surrounding the platform seemed to shimmer unnaturally, as though infused with the same energy that powered the island''s other relics.


    "This place feels... alive," Kijin said, her voice barely audible over the roar of the waterfall. "The energy here is almost suffocating."


    Raijuu growled softly, his gaze fixed on the far side of the basin. Following his line of sight, I spotted a figure standing just beyond the mist. It was humanoid, but its features were obscured, its silhouette distorted by the spray of the falls.


    "Not again," I muttered, tightening my grip on the crystal.


    The figure didn''t move, but its presence was undeniable. It was watching us, its stance unnervingly still.


    The chat exploded with theories and warnings:


    : Is that another guardian? Or something worse?


    : It hasn''t attacked yet, but it''s definitely not friendly.


    : Tsukasa, don''t provoke it. Let''s figure out what it wants first.


    Ignoring the figure for the moment, I turned my attention to the platform. The crystal''s reaction suggested it was the key to unlocking whatever lay hidden here. Carefully, I stepped onto the slick surface, feeling the carvings vibrate faintly under my feet. The glow spread outward, forming concentric circles that pulsed rhythmically.


    Tenko stood at the edge of the water, her camera trained on the platform. "Be careful," she said. "The last time we activated something, it didn''t end well."


    As I held the crystal over the central carving, the platform''s energy surged. The water around it began to ripple, the glow intensifying until the entire basin was illuminated. The air vibrated with a low hum, growing louder with each passing second.


    The figure on the far side of the basin finally moved, stepping closer to the water''s edge. Its features remained obscured, but its intent was clear¡ªit was coming for us.


    "Kijin, Raijuu¡ªprepare for combat," I ordered, stepping back as the platform''s energy reached a crescendo. "Tenko, keep recording. This might be important."


    The figure stepped onto the water, its movements impossibly smooth as it glided toward us. The crystal''s light flared violently, reacting to the entity''s presence. Kijin summoned her barrier, the glowing shield crackling as it materialized in front of her.


    "Let''s see what this one''s got," she said, her voice steady despite the tension.


    Raijuu snarled, his stance low and ready. The figure slowed as it approached the platform, its head tilting slightly as though assessing us. Then, with a burst of speed, it lunged forward, its form blurring into motion.


    The clearing erupted into chaos. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Raijuu met the creature head-on, his claws raking across its surface with a sound like grinding metal. Kijin reinforced her barrier, blocking a series of rapid strikes that sent sparks flying. Tenko moved to higher ground, her camera capturing every moment as the battle unfolded.


    The creature was fast¡ªfaster than anything we''d encountered so far. Its attacks were precise, targeting weak points in our formation. Despite its humanoid appearance, its movements were fluid and unnatural, as though its body wasn''t bound by the same laws of physics as ours.


    The chat was a blur of messages:


    : That thing''s adapting! It''s learning your moves!


    : Kijin''s barrier is holding, but it''s not going to last forever.


    : Raijuu''s a beast! He''s keeping it distracted¡ªbarely.


    I focused the crystal''s energy, directing a concentrated burst of light at the creature. The beam struck its torso, forcing it to stagger, but it recovered almost instantly, its glowing eyes narrowing as it turned toward me.


    "This isn''t working," I muttered, retreating as the creature advanced. "We need a new strategy."


    Kijin gritted her teeth, her barrier flickering under the strain of the creature''s relentless assault. "Any bright ideas, Tsukasa? Because I could use one right about now."


    Before I could respond, the platform beneath us pulsed again, its light surging outward in a blinding flash. The creature froze, its body trembling as the energy enveloped it. Then, with a sound like shattering glass, it dissolved into a fine mist, leaving the clearing eerily silent.


    The chat was stunned:


    : WHAT JUST HAPPENED?! Did the platform save you?


    : That light... It looked like it destroyed the creature.


    : Tsukasa, check the crystal. Did it do something?


    The platform''s glow dimmed, its energy dissipating as the carvings returned to their dormant state. The basin fell silent once more, the only sound the steady roar of the waterfall.


    Breathing heavily, I looked around at my team. Kijin''s barrier faded, and she lowered her hands, her face pale but determined. Raijuu stood at her side, his fur bristling but unharmed.


    "We''re not done yet," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. "The island''s not going to let us leave without a fight."


    We regrouped and prepared to push forward, the path ahead still obscured by the island''s secrets.

 Chapter 151 - 151: Difficult Way Forward

    The platform''s faint hum lingered even after the battle ended. Its glyphs continued to glow softly, bathing the clearing in an eerie, flickering light. The mist swirling around the basin felt thicker now, carrying a weight that pressed against us like unseen hands. Kijin slumped onto a nearby rock, catching her breath as her barrier fizzled out of existence.


    "Next time, I''d like a heads-up before I get dragged into a fight with a magic rock monster," she said, rubbing her temples. "And by ''heads-up,'' I mean a ''No, Kijin, it''s not worth your sanity.''"


    Raijuu was prowling the edge of the clearing, his nose low to the ground. His body language screamed tension, though his growls had subsided to a soft rumble. Tenko was busy reviewing the footage on her camera, her sharp eyes analyzing every frame as if looking for a hidden answer.


    The chat, of course, had its usual commentary:


    : Tsukasa, maybe next time don''t activate the ancient death trap? Just a thought. sea??h th§× N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Kijin carried, Raijuu MVP, and Tsukasa... well, you''re there, I guess.


    : That crystal is reacting to everything except Tsukasa''s social skills.


    I ignored the trolling. Years of streaming had given me a thick skin when it came to my audience''s sense of humor. Instead, I focused on the crystal, now pulsing faintly in my hand. The energy from the platform hadn''t dissipated entirely¡ªit had shifted, creating a faint path of light that pointed deeper into the forest.


    "This isn''t just a waypoint," I said, holding up the crystal. "The platform is directing us to something else. It''s part of a bigger network."


    Kijin snorted. "Great. More glowing breadcrumbs into the abyss. Just what I wanted."


    "The abyss is still better company than Tsukasa," the chat chimed in.


    : Confirmed: Kijin would rather fight monsters than talk to her summoner.


    : She''s not wrong, though.


    Raijuu barked sharply, breaking our moment of banter. He stared into the mist, his ears swiveling toward a faint sound we couldn''t hear. Kijin was on her feet in an instant, her hands glowing faintly as she prepared to summon her barrier.


    "Relax," I said, though my own grip on the crystal tightened. "If something was coming, Raijuu wouldn''t just bark¡ªhe''d attack."


    "Maybe he''s just tired of you," Kijin shot back.


    : Can''t blame him. We''re all tired of Tsukasa, and we''re not even there.


    : Plot twist: the crystal glows brighter when Tsukasa stops talking.


    Tenko finally looked up from her camera, her expression serious. "The carvings on this platform are different from the obelisk," she said. "They''re more... directional. It''s like they''re trying to guide us instead of just reacting."


    "Guide us where?" Kijin asked. "Because if it''s another fight like that last one, I''m filing a complaint with HR."


    : Kijin''s about to unionize the Shikigami.


    : Imagine being overpowered but still bad at your job. Couldn''t be us.


    Despite the constant ribbing from the chat, I knew they were just as curious as we were. With the crystal''s faint path leading us forward, we had no choice but to move. The only way to understand the Shifting Isle''s defenses was to press deeper into its heart.


    The path grew steeper as we ascended, the forest becoming denser and darker with each step. Thick roots jutted out from the ground like natural traps, threatening to trip us at every turn. The air was cold and damp, and the faint mist from the basin seemed to follow us, curling around our legs like a living thing.


    Raijuu led the way, his movements deliberate and cautious. Kijin followed close behind, her hands glowing faintly in case another ambush came. Tenko was behind me, her camera trained on the path ahead, capturing every detail for both posterity and the chat''s endless speculation.


    The chat, unsurprisingly, had plenty to say:


    : Are we sure Raijuu isn''t leading you guys to your deaths? He seems done with this.


    : Kijin''s glowing hands are the real star of the stream. Can we get a highlight reel?


    : Tenko''s professionalism is wasted on this group. Tsukasa, do better.


    "I''d like to remind you all," I said, addressing the chat directly, "that I''m the reason this stream exists. Without me, you''d just be staring at a dark forest."


    : Without you, the forest might actually survive.


    : This man really out here thinking he''s the protagonist.


    "Keep talking," Kijin muttered. "The monsters might leave us alone out of pity."


    We reached the top of the slope and found ourselves overlooking a massive waterfall. The cascade tumbled into a circular basin below, its surface shimmering faintly in the dim light. At the center of the basin stood a stone archway, its carvings glowing faintly through the mist.


    "That''s it," I said, holding up the crystal. Its light pulsed in sync with the glyphs on the archway. "The next waypoint."


    The chat immediately lit up with warnings and jokes:


    : It''s another trap. Call it now: Tsukasa activates it, Kijin has to save the day.


    : Raijuu''s already scouting an escape route. He knows how this ends.


    : Tenko''s just waiting for the highlight moment where Tsukasa messes up.


    The descent into the basin was treacherous. The rocks were slick with moss and spray from the waterfall, and one wrong step could send us tumbling into the water below. Raijuu navigated the terrain with ease, but the rest of us struggled to keep up.


    Kijin slipped once, catching herself on a jagged outcropping. "Next time, remind me to wear cleats," she grumbled.


    : Kijin almost fell. If she had, Raijuu would''ve started a new party without you.


    : Tsukasa''s leadership really showing here. Everyone''s just barely surviving.


    We reached the base of the basin and approached the archway. The crystal''s glow brightened as we drew near, its pulse syncing with the glyphs. The air around the archway felt charged, thick with static energy that made my hair stand on end.


    Before I could examine it further, Raijuu barked sharply. From the mist, another figure emerged. It was humanoid, but its body was sleek and angular, made of the same black stone as the previous creature. Its glowing blue eyes locked onto us, and it began to move.


    "Here we go again," Kijin muttered, summoning her barrier in a flash of light.


    The chat was ready for round two:


    : It''s another one! Let''s see if Tsukasa can hit it this time.


    : Kijin vs. the Isle''s guardians. Tsukasa vs. his own incompetence.


    : Raijuu and Kijin are the real heroes here. Tenko''s the witness.


    The figure stepped onto the water, its movements impossibly smooth. The glyphs on the archway flared brightly, and the crystal''s light surged in response. Whatever this thing was, it wasn''t going to let us pass without a fight.

 Chapter 152 - 152: Echoes of Resistance

    The platform''s hum faded, leaving an unsettling silence in its wake. The creature was gone, consumed by the vortex that erupted from the archway, but its memory lingered in the charged air. The faint glow of the glyphs on the platform and the crystal''s steady pulse were the only reminders that we had survived¡ªnot won.


    Kijin collapsed onto a moss-covered rock, letting out a groan of exhaustion. "I''m calling it. These guardians are getting smarter. What''s next, one that gives us a pop quiz?"


    Raijuu, ever the sentinel, prowled the edge of the clearing, his nose low to the ground. His growls had subsided, but the occasional flick of his ears suggested he was still uneasy. Tenko, always methodical, stood near the archway with her camera aimed at the faint traces of energy left behind by the vortex.


    The chat, as always, wasted no time in weighing in:


    : Kijin soloed another boss. Tsukasa just watched with his shiny rock.


    : Raijuu''s the only one with his priorities straight. Tsukasa, take notes.


    : That archway looked way cooler than you during that fight. Sad, really.


    I ignored the trolling, focusing instead on the crystal in my hand. It was warm, its glow steady but subdued, as if resting after exerting itself. Whatever connection it had to the island''s defenses, it wasn''t just reactive¡ªit was symbiotic, guiding us while keeping us at arm''s length from true understanding.


    "This isn''t just about defense," I said, breaking the silence. "The crystal and the archways are part of a system. It''s not just trying to keep us out¡ªit''s leading us somewhere."


    Tenko glanced up from her camera. "Leading us, or testing us? The energy patterns suggest the island''s network is designed to escalate with each encounter. It''s not just reacting to us¡ªit''s studying us."


    "Great," Kijin muttered. "I love being someone''s science experiment."


    : Yeah, Kijin, but if they''re studying Tsukasa, their report card''s gonna say ''Needs Improvement.''


    : Plot twist: the island''s just trying to send Tsukasa a friend request.


    : Raijuu''s carrying harder than my group projects. Give that dog a medal.


    Raijuu barked sharply, cutting off the chat''s commentary. He stood frozen, his head cocked to the side as he stared into the mist. The faint sound of rustling leaves reached us, followed by a low, guttural growl from somewhere deep in the forest.


    Kijin was on her feet in an instant, her hands glowing as she summoned a barrier. "We''re not done yet," she said, her voice tight. "Something else is out there."


    "Hold position," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. Its glow flared briefly, reacting to the unseen threat. "Raijuu, stay sharp. Tenko, keep that camera rolling."


    The sound grew louder, the rustling giving way to heavy footsteps. The mist shifted, swirling unnaturally as if disturbed by an enormous presence. Then, through the haze, a shape emerged¡ªmassive and quadrupedal, with jagged stone-like plates covering its body. Its eyes glowed the same eerie blue as the previous creature''s runes, but its size and bulk made it far more intimidating.


    The chat immediately lit up with their usual mix of humor and panic:


    : Okay, so it''s a boss rush. Good luck, Tsukasa. You''ll need it.


    : That thing''s got the ''I eat adventurers for breakfast'' vibe.


    : Kijin''s barrier better hold, or we''re about to witness a Tsukasa pancake.


    Raijuu growled low, his body coiled and ready to spring. Kijin adjusted her stance, reinforcing her barrier as the creature lumbered closer. Its steps shook the ground, sending small rocks tumbling into the basin. The air around it crackled with static energy, the runes on its body glowing brighter with each movement.


    "This one''s not like the others," Tenko said, her voice calm despite the tension. "Its energy signature is off the charts."


    "Fantastic..... Just once, I''d like a dumb monster. Something I can punch without overthinking it."


    The creature let out a thunderous roar, the sound reverberating through the clearing. Then it charged, its massive bulk barreling toward us with terrifying speed.


    "Kijin!" I shouted, but she was already in motion.


    Her barrier flared brilliantly, meeting the creature''s charge head-on. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the air, the barrier holding firm but cracking slightly under the strain. Sparks flew as the creature clawed at the shield, its glowing runes shifting and pulsating as if analyzing its target.


    Raijuu darted to the side, his movements a blur as he leapt onto the creature''s flank. His claws raked against its stone plates, leaving deep gouges that glowed faintly before sealing themselves. The creature twisted, snapping at him with razor-sharp teeth, but Raijuu was too quick.


    "Tsukasa, do something!" Kijin yelled, her voice strained as she reinforced her barrier. "I can''t hold this thing forever!"


    The crystal pulsed violently in my hand, its light growing brighter as it resonated with the creature''s energy. The glyphs on the archway flared to life once more, their patterns shifting and aligning with the crystal''s glow.


    "Tenko, are they syncing?"


    "Yes."


    "The crystal and the archway are feeding off each other. If you channel the energy, it might disrupt the creature''s regeneration."


    "Channel it how?" I muttered, but there was no time for hesitation. I raised the crystal, directing its light toward the archway. The glyphs responded immediately, their glow intensifying as the crystal''s energy flowed into them.


    The creature roared again, sensing the shift in power. It turned its glowing eyes toward me, abandoning its assault on Kijin''s barrier. Raijuu intercepted it mid-charge, his claws digging into its shoulder as they tumbled to the ground.


    "Now!" Kijin shouted, dropping her barrier to unleash a blast of concentrated energy. The beam struck the creature square in the chest, staggering it just long enough for the archway to activate.


    A vortex of light and shadow erupted within the archway, pulling everything toward its center. The creature struggled, its claws gouging deep furrows into the ground as it fought against the pull. Raijuu leapt clear just as the vortex''s power reached its peak, consuming the creature in a blinding flash.


    When the light faded, the archway stood silent once more, its glyphs dim and lifeless. The clearing was still, the oppressive tension finally lifting as the mist began to dissipate.


    The chat erupted in celebration¡ªand mockery:


    : Tsukasa actually did something! Is this character development?


    : Raijuu carried, Kijin tanked, and Tsukasa... pointed a flashlight. A+ teamwork.


    : That vortex was cooler than the fight. Can we trigger it again?


    Kijin dropped onto a nearby rock, wiping sweat from her brow.


    "If the next guardian''s any bigger, I''m retiring," she said.


    "Raijuu can have my spot."


    Raijuu padded over, his fur singed but otherwise unharmed. He nudged my hand, his growl low and affectionate.


    "We''re not done yet," I said, looking at the now-dormant archway. The crystal''s pulse had steadied, but its light still glowed faintly, as if waiting for the next step.


    "The island''s leading us somewhere, and it''s not going to make it easy." Sear?h the N??eFire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

 Chapter 153 - 153: Into the Unknown

    After regrouping at the basin, the atmosphere felt heavier than before, like the island itself was aware of our survival and displeased by it. The mist that had thinned after the vortex consumed the creature began to thicken again, swirling around us as we prepared to move on. The crystal''s pulse was faint but insistent, its glow pointing us toward another hidden waypoint deeper within the forest.


    Raijuu took the lead, his movements deliberate and cautious as he sniffed the air. Kijin trailed close behind, her hands glowing faintly as she kept her barrier spell on standby. Tenko stayed near me, her camera capturing the shifting shadows and eerie beauty of the trail ahead. None of us spoke for a while, the quiet punctuated only by the crunch of leaves underfoot and the occasional drip of water from the trees above.


    The chat''s usual antics broke the silence, their messages pinging against my wrist display:


    : Why does the island feel like it''s giving you the silent treatment?


    : Kijin looks done. Someone get her a vacation.


    : Raijuu''s leading because he''s the only one the island doesn''t hate.


    "I see the chat''s in peak form today," I muttered, earning a sharp glance from Kijin.


    "They''re not wrong," she said. "This place feels off. It''s like the quiet before a storm."


    "Or before Tsukasa inevitably touches something he shouldn''t," the chat chimed in.


    : Can''t wait for him to ''accidentally'' trigger another boss.


    : Kijin deserves hazard pay for putting up with this.


    : Raijuu''s leading the team while Tsukasa carries the plot device. Classic.


    Ignoring the trolling, I focused on the crystal. Its glow was steady but dim, as though conserving its energy. Whatever connection it had to the island''s network, it was clear that we hadn''t seen the worst of what lay ahead.


    The trail narrowed as we descended into a deep ravine, the air growing cooler with each step. The trees above formed an almost impenetrable canopy, blocking out what little light remained. The faint sound of running water echoed through the ravine, guiding us toward a small stream that cut through the rocks like a silver ribbon.


    Raijuu stopped suddenly, his ears twitching as he sniffed the air. His low growl set us all on edge.


    "What is it?" I asked, gripping the crystal tightly.


    Kijin stepped forward, her barrier materializing with a soft hum. "Trouble," she said, her eyes scanning the shadows. "And it''s close."


    The chat''s warnings came in quick succession:


    : Raijuu''s growling. That''s never a good sign.


    : Kijin''s barrier''s up. You know what that means¡ªincoming fight!


    : Tsukasa, do literally anything useful for once.


    The rustling in the underbrush grew louder, and a moment later, a swarm of small, glowing creatures burst out of the shadows. They looked like oversized insects, their translucent wings shimmering with an iridescent glow. Their bodies pulsed faintly, emitting bursts of light that flickered erratically.


    "Lumivores," Tenko said, her voice calm but firm. "They feed on energy sources, including magical ones."


    "Perfect," Kijin muttered, her barrier flaring brighter as the creatures swarmed around her. "Guess who''s on the menu today?"


    The lumivores slammed into her barrier, their glowing bodies sparking as they tried to penetrate it. Raijuu leapt into the fray, his claws swiping through the swarm with brutal efficiency. Tenko stood back, her camera trained on the action as she analyzed their behavior.


    "They''re coordinated," she said. "Their movements aren''t random¡ªthey''re targeting the barrier directly."


    : The bugs are smarter than Tsukasa. Let that sink in.


    : Kijin''s doing all the work again. What else is new?


    : Raijuu''s MVP as usual. Tsukasa''s still holding his flashlight.


    I ignored the chat''s jabs and focused the crystal''s energy. Its glow intensified as I directed a pulse of light toward the swarm. The lumivores reacted instantly, their bodies trembling as the light disrupted their coordination. They scattered briefly before regrouping, their movements more erratic.


    "They don''t like the crystal," I said, stepping closer to Kijin. "If we keep it active, it might destabilize them."


    "Then hurry up!" she snapped, her voice strained as more lumivores battered her barrier. "I''m not a buffet!"


    Channeling the crystal''s energy, I released another pulse of light. This time, the effect was stronger. The lumivores shrieked¡ªa high-pitched, grating sound¡ªand began to dissolve, their glowing bodies disintegrating into tiny motes of light that vanished into the mist.


    Raijuu finished off the last of the swarm with a vicious swipe of his claws, his growls subsiding as the threat dissipated. Kijin dropped her barrier, her hands shaking slightly as she let out a sigh of relief.


    "Next time," she said, glaring at me, "try to figure that out before I become bug food."


    The chat wasted no time piling on:


    : Kijin carried again. Tsukasa just stood there like a decorative lamp.


    : Raijuu deserves a steak for that performance. Tsukasa deserves... nothing.


    : Tenko''s camera work was more impressive than Tsukasa''s contribution.


    "We''re alive, aren''t we?" I shot back, though I couldn''t hide the irritation in my voice.


    "Barely," Kijin muttered. "Let''s move before something worse shows up."


    The trail leveled out as we left the ravine, the mist thinning slightly as the trees grew sparser. The crystal''s pulse remained steady, guiding us toward a clearing up ahead. In the center of the clearing stood a massive stone pedestal, its surface covered in glyphs similar to those on the platform and archway.


    "This is it," I said, approaching the pedestal cautiously. The crystal''s light brightened, syncing with the glyphs as I held it close. "Another waypoint."


    The chat lit up with excitement:


    : New relic unlocked! What''s it gonna do this time?


    : Place your bets: trap, guardian, or another vortex?


    : Tsukasa, maybe don''t touch it immediately. For once.


    The pedestal began to hum softly, its glyphs glowing brighter as the crystal''s energy flowed into it. The ground beneath us trembled, and a faint beam of light shot upward from the pedestal, piercing the canopy above. The energy felt different this time¡ªless hostile, more inviting.


    Tenko adjusted her camera, her voice tinged with curiosity. "This isn''t like the previous waypoints. It feels... purposeful."


    The glyphs shifted, forming a map-like pattern that spread across the pedestal''s surface. The crystal''s glow intensified, highlighting a specific point on the map¡ªa location deep within the heart of the island.


    "That''s where we''re going next," I said, studying the map. "The crystal''s guiding us."


    Kijin crossed her arms, her expression skeptical. "And what are the odds something''s waiting for us there? Something bigger than bugs or stone monsters?"


    "High," I admitted. "But if this island wants to test us, we''ll pass."


    The chat wasn''t so optimistic:


    : ''We''ll pass,'' he says. Famous last words. S§×arch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Tsukasa''s optimism is the real plot twist here.


    : Kijin''s already mentally preparing for the next fight. Raijuu''s just tired.

 Chapter 154 - 154: Heart of the Island

    The map etched into the pedestal flickered faintly, the glowing glyphs shifting to form a clear path through the dense forest. The endpoint¡ªthe so-called heart of the island¡ªseemed to pulse with life, a beacon calling us deeper into the unknown. The air was charged, heavy with anticipation, and even the usual banter among my Shikigami was replaced by an uneasy silence.


    Raijuu paced near the pedestal, his ears twitching as he scanned the surrounding trees. Kijin leaned back against a moss-covered boulder, her hands glowing faintly as she idly maintained a fragment of her barrier. Tenko stood nearby, her camera aimed at the map, its lens glinting in the dim light.


    "This feels like a trap," Kijin said, breaking the silence. "A big glowing ''Welcome Here, Idiots'' sign just waiting for us to step into it."


    Raijuu barked softly, his sharp eyes locking onto the distant trail ahead. He didn''t seem to disagree.


    The chat, of course, had their own colorful theories:


    : Plot twist: the map is a decoy, and the real treasure was the friends we made along the way.


    : Kijin''s got the right idea¡ªthis place is screaming ''death trap.'' S§×arch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Raijuu''s thinking, "I should''ve joined a more competent explorer."


    "It''s not a trap," I said, though the words felt hollow even to me. "The crystal''s been guiding us this far. It hasn''t steered us wrong."


    Kijin raised an eyebrow. "Yeah, guiding us into bugs, stone monsters, and magical death vortexes. Great track record."


    Tenko spoke up, her calm voice cutting through the tension. "The island''s network of glyphs is ancient, but it''s consistent. If the crystal and the map are in sync, they''re leading us somewhere specific."


    "Somewhere worse," Kijin muttered.


    : Tenko''s out here being the voice of reason while Tsukasa fumbles with his glowing rock.


    : Kijin''s sarcasm is the glue holding this team together.


    : Imagine being the only human in the group and still being the least useful.


    The trail leading away from the pedestal was narrow and overgrown, the dense forest pressing in from all sides. The canopy above blocked out most of the light, leaving us in a perpetual twilight that felt both eerie and oppressive. Raijuu led the way, his movements slow and deliberate, while Kijin stayed close behind, her hands glowing faintly in preparation for another ambush. Tenko kept her camera focused on the crystal, her attention split between documenting our progress and scanning for potential threats.


    The chat''s energy shifted as the mist began to thicken around us, their comments ranging from playful to unnerved:


    : The vibe here is "forest where the last horror movie scene happens." Good luck, I guess.


    : Raijuu''s the MVP, but Kijin''s got the best commentary. Tsukasa¡­ yeah.


    : Bet you 1,000 yen Tsukasa touches something he shouldn''t in the next 10 minutes.


    We trudged onward in silence, the forest growing darker and colder with each step. The faint sound of running water reached our ears as the trail began to slope downward, leading us into a deep ravine. The air here was damp and heavy, carrying the faint scent of moss and decay. The crystal pulsed faintly, its glow cutting through the thickening mist.


    Raijuu stopped abruptly, his ears swiveling toward an unseen threat. A low growl rumbled in his throat, and his body tensed as he sniffed the air. Kijin was on edge instantly, her barrier materializing with a soft hum.


    "What''s out there?" she asked, her voice sharp.


    Raijuu growled again, his eyes fixed on a cluster of trees shrouded in mist. A moment later, the underbrush rustled, and a swarm of glowing creatures burst into view. They resembled oversized insects, their translucent wings emitting a faint, high-pitched whine.


    "More lumivores?" I asked, gripping the crystal tightly.


    "No," Tenko said, her tone measured. "These are different. Bigger, faster, and more coordinated."


    : The bugs are evolving. Next step: unionizing against Kijin.


    : Kijin''s barrier vs. glowing bugs¡ªplace your bets.


    : Raijuu''s already thinking, "Not this crap again."


    The swarm moved with unnerving precision, converging on Kijin''s barrier in a coordinated assault. Sparks flew as their glowing bodies struck the shield, their iridescent light reflecting off its surface. Raijuu lunged at the creatures, his claws slicing through their ranks with brutal efficiency. Despite his efforts, their numbers didn''t seem to dwindle.


    "They''re not attacking randomly," Tenko observed, her camera zooming in on the swarm. "They''re targeting the barrier¡ªand the crystal."


    "Fantastic," Kijin said, reinforcing her barrier as cracks began to form. "Your shiny rock''s a bug magnet. Fix it, Tsukasa!"


    The crystal''s glow flared as the swarm intensified their assault. Focusing its energy, I directed a pulse of light toward the creatures. They reacted instantly, their bodies trembling as the light disrupted their movements. Several disintegrated into glowing motes, but the swarm quickly adapted, their attacks growing more frenzied.


    "It''s not enough," I said, releasing another pulse. "They''re adapting too quickly."


    : Plot twist: the bugs are smarter than the team. Raijuu excluded, obviously.


    : Just give the crystal to Raijuu. He''s clearly the leader here.


    : Imagine being an EX-rank explorer and losing to bugs.


    Raijuu darted through the swarm, his claws raking through their glowing bodies with savage precision. Despite his efforts, the creatures kept coming, their glowing forms almost overwhelming the barrier. Kijin gritted her teeth, sweat beading on her brow as she held the shield steady.


    "Tsukasa, any time now!" she shouted.


    The crystal''s energy surged in my hand, its light growing almost blinding. Channeling its power, I focused a concentrated beam of light on the swarm. The creatures shrieked¡ªa high-pitched, grating sound¡ªas the energy overwhelmed them. One by one, they disintegrated, their glowing bodies dissolving into the mist.


    When the last of the lumivores vanished, the forest fell silent once more. The crystal''s glow dimmed, its energy stabilizing as the tension eased.


    Kijin dropped her barrier, collapsing onto a nearby rock. "Next time," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "I''m bringing a giant bug zapper."


    Raijuu padded over, his fur singed but otherwise unharmed. He nudged my hand with his nose, his growl low and reassuring.


    : Raijuu carried again. Tsukasa just held the flashlight.


    : Kijin deserves an award for Most Patient Shikigami. Tsukasa deserves a time-out.


    : Bugs: 0. Kijin and Raijuu: 100. Tsukasa: participation trophy.


    "Let''s move," I said, pocketing the crystal. "The heart of the island is waiting."


    The chat, still buzzing with their usual mix of humor and critique, accompanied us as we resumed our journey. The path ahead grew steeper, the shadows deeper, and the mist thicker. Whatever secrets the heart of the island held, it was clear we weren''t done earning them.

 Chapter 155 - 155: The Threshold

    The deeper we pushed into the island, the more oppressive the atmosphere became. The forest around us felt alive, and not in a comforting way. The trees bent unnaturally toward the path, their gnarled branches intertwining above us like skeletal fingers. Mist hung thick and low, swallowing everything beyond a few meters and dampening sound to an eerie hush.


    Raijuu was the first to pick up on it¡ªa shift in the air, subtle but charged. His growls were more frequent, low and rumbling, and his sharp gaze darted to every shadow. Kijin walked behind him, her hands faintly glowing as she kept her barrier on standby. Tenko''s camera lens glinted in the dim light as she recorded the shifting shadows of the trail ahead.


    The chat buzzed with commentary that oscillated between amusement and growing unease:


    : The forest is so extra. Is this a dungeon or a haunted house?


    : Raijuu deserves hazard pay for dealing with Tsukasa''s leadership.


    : Is it me, or are the trees looking at you? Not creepy at all.


    I tightened my grip on the crystal, which pulsed faintly in my hand. Its warm glow was the only steady light cutting through the mist. The map etched into the pedestal earlier had pointed us here, but now, staring into the dark maw of the forest, I couldn''t help but question whether we were being guided or lured.


    "This trail''s narrowing fast," Kijin muttered, ducking under a low branch. "You sure this isn''t a setup? Because it''s got all the red flags."


    "It''s not a setup," I replied, though my voice lacked conviction. "The crystal''s been consistent so far. It hasn''t led us astray."


    "That''s not saying much," Kijin shot back. "It also lit up every time we almost died."


    The chat jumped on her words like a pack of hyenas:


    : Kijin''s calling it like it is. Someone has to.


    : Raijuu should just take the crystal and run. He''s clearly the brains here.


    : Tsukasa: glowing rock enthusiast. Raijuu: actual problem solver.


    Raijuu suddenly stopped in his tracks, his body tense as he crouched low to the ground. A deep growl rumbled in his throat, and his sharp ears swiveled toward an unseen threat. Kijin was on alert immediately, stepping forward as her barrier flared into existence with a soft hum.


    "What is it?" Tenko asked, lowering her camera briefly to scan the surroundings.


    Raijuu sniffed the air, his growl deepening. Then, with a sharp bark, he locked eyes on a shadow moving through the mist. The sound of cracking branches echoed through the forest, growing louder as something massive approached.


    "Here we go," Kijin muttered, reinforcing her barrier. "It sounds big."


    From the shadows emerged a creature that looked like it had crawled straight out of the island''s core¡ªa hulking amalgamation of roots, stone, and glowing blue veins that pulsed in sync with the crystal in my hand. Its glowing eyes locked onto us, and it let out a low, guttural roar that vibrated through the ground.


    The chat erupted with fresh energy:


    : Okay, that thing looks like it eats adventurers for fun.


    : Root monster? More like plot armor tester.


    : Place your bets: Kijin solos or Raijuu hard-carries.


    Raijuu growled, baring his teeth as he prowled forward. Kijin''s barrier flickered slightly as she adjusted its strength, her hands glowing brighter. Tenko zoomed her camera in on the creature, her expression calm but focused.


    "It''s drawing energy from the island," Tenko said. "The same energy as the crystal."


    "So it''s linked to this thing?" Kijin asked, glancing back at me. "Great. Your shiny rock''s got a twin."


    The creature roared again and charged, its massive arms swinging with enough force to uproot small trees. Kijin''s barrier absorbed the blow, sending sparks flying, but the cracks spiderwebbing across its surface hinted at the sheer power behind the attack.


    Raijuu wasted no time, darting around the creature''s legs and clawing at its glowing veins. Splinters and shards of stone flew as his claws found purchase, but the creature barely faltered, its glowing veins knitting back together almost instantly.


    "It''s regenerating," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. Its glow intensified, reacting to the creature''s energy. "We need to disrupt its connection to the island."


    "Oh, is that all?" Kijin snapped, reinforcing her barrier as the creature slammed into it again. "Why didn''t you say so earlier? I''ll just call tech support."


    : Kijin''s sarcasm game is strong today. Someone get her a raise.


    : Raijuu''s doing all the damage. Tsukasa''s just holding his glow stick.


    : Tsukasa, maybe try hitting it instead of narrating?


    Focusing the crystal''s energy, I directed a concentrated beam of light at the creature''s chest. The beam struck its core, and for a moment, the glowing veins dimmed. The creature let out a guttural roar, stumbling slightly, but the veins quickly reignited, their glow even brighter than before.


    "It''s adapting," Tenko said, her camera capturing every movement. "We need to hit it harder or faster."


    Raijuu snarled and leapt onto the creature''s back, his claws raking across its glowing veins with feral precision. The creature twisted violently, trying to throw him off, but Raijuu held firm, tearing at the lines of energy with relentless determination.


    "Kijin, drop the barrier and hit it while it''s distracted!" I shouted.


    Kijin didn''t hesitate. Her barrier flickered out, and she unleashed a concentrated blast of energy directly at the creature''s core. The beam struck true, shattering the glowing veins and sending a shockwave rippling through the clearing.


    The creature let out a final, echoing roar as its body began to disintegrate. The roots and stone crumbled into ash, and the glowing veins faded into wisps of light that vanished into the mist. Raijuu landed gracefully, his fur bristling but otherwise unharmed.


    The forest fell silent again, the oppressive energy dissipating as quickly as it had arrived. Kijin let out a long breath, wiping sweat from her brow as she leaned against a nearby tree.


    "Next time, how about we skip the big scary monsters?" she said, glaring at me. "Just once, I''d like a dungeon to be boring."


    The chat immediately seized the moment:


    : Kijin and Raijuu: MVPs. Tsukasa: cheerleader.


    : The glowing tree guy stood no chance against teamwork¡ªand sarcasm.


    : Tenko''s footage is the only thing keeping this adventure professional.


    I pocketed the crystal, its light dim but steady. The mist ahead parted slightly, revealing the faint outline of another structure¡ªa towering spire that seemed to pulse faintly with the same rhythm as the crystal. It was far enough away that the details were unclear, but close enough to feel the weight of its presence.


    "We''re not done yet," I said, glancing at my team. "That spire... it''s the next step." S§×arch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    Kijin groaned but pushed off the tree. "Of course it is. Let''s get it over with before something else tries to kill us."


    With Raijuu scouting ahead and Tenko capturing every detail, we moved forward, the path growing darker and steeper with every step.

 Chapter 156 - 156: The Spires Shadow

    The journey to the spire was not merely a walk through nature, but a plunge into the heart of ancient mysteries that the island had jealously guarded for millennia. The dense canopy above formed a dark tapestry, woven with threads of mist that danced around us like spectral entities. The path underfoot, slick with moss and fallen leaves, seemed to pulse with a life of its own, as if the very ground knew of our trespass and whispered secrets in a language lost to time.


    Raijuu, our steadfast guide, led with cautious steps, his senses finely tuned to the slightest disturbances. His occasional growls punctuated the silence, serving as grim reminders of the dangers that lurked just beyond sight. Kijin, always ready for combat, maintained a shimmering barrier around her hands, casting ghostly lights onto the forest floor. Tenko''s camera captured every eerie detail, her lens focusing on phenomena that our eyes alone might have missed.


    The chat, ever-present and ever-vocal, kept up a steady stream of commentary that ranged from insightful to irreverent:


    : This is like that level in every video game that makes you question if the developers hate their players.


    : Raijuu''s the only one who hasn''t freaked out yet. That dog''s got nerves of steel.


    : Watch Kijin turn this into a haunted forest episode of her own adventure series.


    As the forest began to thin, revealing the stark silhouette of the spire against the gray sky, a chilling wind swept through the trees, carrying with it a low, mournful howl that seemed neither animal nor human. It was as if the island itself was mourning¡ªor warning us.


    "We''re being watched," Kijin whispered, her eyes narrowing as she scanned the treeline. "Something''s out there, and it''s not just the usual creepy-crawlies."


    Tenko paused, adjusting her camera to night vision. "Got it. Anything that moves gets filmed. Maybe we''ll make a documentary out of this¡ªif we survive."


    : Tenko''s footage is going to end up on one of those paranormal investigation shows. ''Mysteries at the Spire.''


    : Kijin''s ready to fight a ghost. Tsukasa, please don''t try to make friends with it.


    As we approached the base of the spire, the wind grew stronger, whipping around us with an intensity that seemed almost deliberate. The entrance to the spire, a grand archway carved with ancient runes, loomed before us, its dark maw inviting yet foreboding.


    "I don''t like this," Kijin said, her voice barely audible over the howling wind. "It feels like we''re walking into a trap."


    "We need to be careful," I agreed, feeling the crystal pulse more vigorously in my hand as we neared the entrance. "Stay close and keep your eyes open. We don''t know what''s inside."


    Raijuu led the way into the spire, his body tense and alert. As we crossed the threshold, the wind ceased abruptly, replaced by an oppressive silence that hung heavily in the air. The interior of the spire was vast, the walls stretching upward into shadow, the ceiling lost to darkness.


    The passageway ahead was lined with torches that flickered to life as we passed, casting an eerie glow that threw our shadows against the smooth stone walls. The floor was a mosaic of tiles, each depicting scenes of celestial events¡ªcomets, solar eclipses, and constellations¡ªsuggesting that the spire might have once been an observatory or temple dedicated to astronomical pursuits.


    "This architecture is incredible," Tenko murmured, panning her camera over the intricate carvings. "These people knew things about the stars that we can only guess at."


    : Maybe they left a star map to the nearest coffee shop. Tsukasa looks like he needs it.


    : If they start finding zodiac signs on the walls, I''m calling it¡ªthis was an ancient astrology club. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    As we delved deeper, the air grew cooler, and the faint sound of chanting echoed through the halls. The words were indistinguishable, but their rhythmic cadence was unsettling, a ghostly whisper from ages past that sent shivers down our spines.


    Rounding a bend, we entered a large chamber dominated by a massive crystal similar to the one I carried. It was suspended in the air by unseen forces, pulsing with a brilliant light that filled the room with a soft radiance. Around it, statues of hooded figures stood in a circle, their hands raised as if in worship or warning.


    "This is it," I said, stepping forward cautiously. "The heart of the spire."


    Kijin remained on guard, her eyes darting around the chamber. "And probably the heart of the island. Look at this setup. They were channeling serious power through here."


    : Bet those statues come to life. This is how horror movies start.


    : Tsukasa''s about to touch something, and I''m not ready for this.


    Approaching the central crystal, I felt a connection form between it and the one in my hand. A surge of energy flowed through me, both exhilarating and terrifying. The chamber seemed to come alive, the statues glowing with an inner light, and the chanting grew louder, more insistent.


    "We need to be careful," Tenko said, her voice tense. "Whatever was done here, it was powerful and potentially dangerous."


    "I''ll take a look at the inscriptions," Kijin added, moving to examine the base of one of the statues. "Maybe there''s a clue about how to safely interact with this thing."


    Raijuu paced around the perimeter, his growls low and constant as he sensed the lingering energies.


    Suddenly, the floor beneath us began to vibrate, a low rumble that quickly grew into a roar. The chamber shook violently, dust and small stones falling from the ceiling as the crystal above us shone brighter.


    "Something''s happening!" I shouted over the noise. "We might have triggered a defense mechanism!"


    The statues'' eyes lit up, casting a baleful glare as the chamber continued to shake. The crystal in my hand grew hot, almost burning, as the energy in the room surged toward a climax.


    "We need to find a way to stop this," I said, gripping the crystal tightly. "Before the whole place comes down on our heads!"


    Kijin, having found something in the inscriptions, shouted back, "It''s a containment spell! They were holding something back!"


    : That doesn''t sound good. What did they contain? A coffee shop?


    : Raijuu, protect them! Tsukasa, try not to make it worse!


    With the chamber threatening to collapse, and the mystery of the spire''s power now potentially catastrophic, we scrambled to decipher the ancient spells and halt the destructive sequence we had unwittingly initiated. The fate of our expedition, and possibly much more, hung in the balance as we delved deeper into the arcane secrets of the spire.

 Chapter 157 - 157: Unleashing the Ancients

    The spire''s shadow loomed large as we delved deeper into its heart. Tsukasa, usually more at ease in the familiar chaos of dungeon streams, found himself leading not just a physical expedition, but an archaeological revelation that could reshape history. The responsibility weighed heavily on him, compounded by his inherent social awkwardness which made the sudden thrust into leadership even more challenging.


    As we navigated through the dimly lit corridors, every footstep echoed off the ancient stone, a constant reminder of the thousands of years these walls had stood silent, guarding their secrets. The air was cool and dry, filled with the musty scent of old parchment and stone that had not felt the warmth of sunlight in centuries.


    Raijuu, sensing the tense atmosphere, stayed close to Tsukasa, occasionally nudging him with a reassuring snout. Kijin, her eyes constantly scanning the shadows, kept her hand near her weapon, ready for whatever might come. Tenko, her camera held steady, captured every glyph and artifact, her lens a silent observer to history unfolding.


    The chat, ever-present, provided a backdrop of commentary that ranged from humorous to supportive: S~ea??h the N??elFir§×.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Tsukasa looks like he''s about to solve the island''s ancient tax system.


    : If they find ancient coffee, we''ll know this was meant to be.


    : Raijuu''s the real leader here, let''s be honest.


    As we moved further into the spire, the narrow passageway opened into a large chamber. The room was dominated by a massive stone table, its surface covered with scattered scrolls and artifacts. Along the walls were shelves filled with more scrolls and several strange, metallic objects that gleamed under the flickering torchlight.


    "Look at this," Kijin said, picking up a metallic rod from the table. It was intricately carved and felt surprisingly light. "It''s not just a stick. It has some sort of mechanism inside."


    Tsukasa approached, his curiosity overcoming his usual reticence. He examined the rod, turning it in his hands, feeling the cold metal against his skin. "It''s a key," he concluded. "See here? These glyphs match those by the door we passed earlier."


    : Tsukasa playing Indiana Jones is my new favorite show.


    : Don''t break it, Tsukasa. We know your track record with delicate things.


    With cautious optimism, we decided to explore further, Raijuu leading the way back to the door Tsukasa had mentioned. The corridor was silent except for our footsteps and the soft, mechanical whir of Tenko''s camera. As we reached the door, Tsukasa inserted the metallic rod into an inconspicuous slot beside it. With a click, the mechanism activated, and the door slowly swung open, revealing another chamber, this one even larger than the last.


    This new room was a treasure trove of artifacts, each shelf and table laden with items that glittered with the promise of untold stories. In the center of the room stood a large, circular device, its surface a complex array of gears and symbols that suggested a celestial model.


    "We''ve found something significant," Tenko whispered, almost to herself, as she recorded every angle of the device.


    : That''s no ordinary room. That''s an ancient man cave.


    : If they start moving stuff, tell them to lift with their knees, not their backs.


    Despite the overwhelming urge to explore every object, we focused on the celestial device. Its construction suggested it was used to track astronomical events, perhaps even to predict them.


    Kijin, ever practical, suggested a methodical approach. "Let''s document everything first. We don''t want to disrupt something we don''t understand."


    Tsukasa nodded, feeling more comfortable with this systematic approach. He started from the outer edge of the room, working inward, his streamer instincts kicking in as he narrated his observations for an imaginary audience, helping to manage his social anxiety.


    : Tsukasa''s giving us that premium content now.


    : Bet Tsukasa wishes he could livestream this.


    As we cataloged each artifact, the significance of our discovery became clear. This was not merely a storage room; it was a center of learning, perhaps even a classroom where ancient scholars gathered to study the stars.


    The realization hit Tsukasa suddenly. "We''re standing in a university," he said, his voice filled with awe. "An ancient university where they taught about the stars."


    : Tsukasa found his alma mater.


    : This episode: Tsukasa and the Temple of Doom. No snakes, please.


    Encouraged by the discovery, we spent hours in the chamber, each artifact providing a piece of the puzzle that was this ancient civilization''s understanding of the cosmos. The responsibility of preserving these findings dawned on us, a shared duty that transcended our initial adventure.


    Inside the ancient university, the air buzzed not just with the silent whispers of history but also with the palpable excitement of discovery. Tsukasa, feeling a surge of responsibility mixed with exhilaration, led the team deeper into the complexities of the celestial device at the chamber''s center.


    "This isn''t just an observatory or classroom," Tsukasa mused aloud, the nervous edge in his voice smoothed over by fascination. "It''s an interface between the cosmos and this island''s culture. They didn''t just study the stars; they lived by them."


    Kijin, examining a series of small, intricately designed metallic orbs, nodded in agreement. "These could be models of planets or teaching tools. Each one is marked with different glyphs that correspond to those on the device. They were teaching astrophysics here, or maybe something even more advanced."


    Raijuu, usually more interested in potential threats than historical artifacts, seemed unusually attentive to the orbs, sniffing them curiously and occasionally looking up at Tsukasa as if to confirm his findings were important.


    : Raijuu, the unexpected archaeologist. Good boy finds old balls.


    : If they find an ancient treat dispenser next, Raijuu stays forever.


    Tenko''s camera focused on the detailed craftsmanship of the orbs. "Imagine the knowledge that was shared here," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "And the people who walked these halls, scholars from different worlds, perhaps, brought together by their pursuit of understanding."


    As the day stretched into evening, the team set up temporary lights to continue their work. The chamber, illuminated by modern equipment, seemed to come alive, its shadows dancing on the walls as if reacting to the intrusion of light.


    "We should consider setting up a base camp here," Tsukasa suggested, looking around at the sprawling chamber. "There''s too much to catalog in one visit, and this place deserves our full attention."


    : Tsukasa''s turning into a full-blown nerd, and I''m here for it.


    : Set up camp in an ancient university? Semester at Sea just got outclassed.


    Kijin, who had been quiet, her focus split between the security of their perimeter and the artifacts, finally spoke up, her tone serious. "We need to make sure nothing we do here damages the site. This isn''t just about discovery; it''s about preservation."


    "Agreed," Tsukasa replied, nodding solemnly. "We''ll document everything meticulously and ensure that we leave it exactly as we found it, or better."


    As they prepared the area for extended study, Raijuu seemed to settle into his role as guardian of the site, his earlier restlessness giving way to a calm vigilance. The chat, always keen to provide their commentary, watched through Tenko''s continuous stream, their usual banter mixing with genuine appreciation for the team''s efforts.


    : History Channel''s got nothing on this. When''s the documentary coming out?


    : I bet Raijuu finds the secret to eternal youth here. Immortal doggo.


    The next few hours were spent in a detailed examination of the celestial device. Tsukasa, with Kijin''s help, managed to align several of the metallic orbs in a configuration that activated part of the mechanism. The device hummed to life, projecting a map of the night sky across the chamber ceiling, showing constellations that were no longer visible from Earth.


    "This map is ancient," Tsukasa said, his voice filled with awe. "It''s a snapshot of the sky from thousands of years ago. We could rewrite some of our history with this."


    : Tsukasa just saved his semester project.


    : Those stars haven''t been seen for millennia. This room is a time machine.


    Their discovery sparked a flurry of activity, with each team member taking on specific tasks. Tenko documented the projections and compared them to modern star maps, while Kijin cataloged each artifact, linking them to different aspects of the celestial model.


    As night deepened, the team, energized by their unprecedented findings, planned their next steps. They discussed reaching out to experts and possibly bringing in a team of archaeologists to help with the preservation and study of the site.


    "We''re not just explorers anymore," Tsukasa reflected as they gathered their equipment. "We''re custodians of a legacy that spans beyond our current understanding. What we do next will help ensure that this knowledge isn''t lost again."


    The responsibility was immense, but so was the opportunity to contribute to human understanding of history and the cosmos. As they packed up their gear, ready to secure the site for the night, Tsukasa felt a profound connection to the past¡ªa link forged not just by discovery, but by the shared human endeavor to reach for the stars and beyond.


    "We''ll be back tomorrow," he promised, turning off the lights and securing the chamber. "There''s so much more to learn."


    And with that, they stepped out into the cool night, the spire behind them a silent sentinel in the darkness, guarding its secrets until they returned.

 Chapter 158 - 158: Beyond the Spire

    As we left the spire behind, its ancient silhouette fading into the distance, the weight of what we''d discovered pressed heavily on my shoulders. The morning sunlight felt sharp and intrusive, like the world outside was rushing to remind us of its normalcy¡ªsomething the spire had utterly disrupted.


    Raijuu trotted ahead, his tail swishing with satisfaction. His mood was contagious. For all the mind-boggling implications of the celestial alignments, the ancient devices, and whatever that last mechanism was, I had to admit: It felt good to breathe fresh air again.


    "Are we just going to ignore how insane that place was?" Kijin asked, adjusting the straps of her gear as she walked beside me.


    "Pretty sure that''s not possible," I replied. "But if you have any ideas on how to explain it to the Explorer Association without sounding like conspiracy theorists, let me know."


    Kijin grinned. "We''ll stick to the facts. No mentioning secret cosmic cults. Yet."


    Ahead of us, Asakawa was scrolling through her phone, her expression unusually focused. The light caught her face just right, making her look effortlessly composed even after days in a dungeon.


    : Asagao out here casually glowing. Queen behavior.


    : Someone screenshot this. Frame it. Worship it.


    : Tsukasa, you don''t deserve her presence.


    "Asagao, anything interesting?" I asked, trying to distract myself from how chat was definitely making me look bad in real-time.


    "Nothing unusual yet," she said, slipping her phone back into her pocket. "But once we report this, things are going to move fast. You ready for that?"


    "Are you ready to handle chat fawning over you for the millionth time?" I countered, earning a small, rare smile.


    Kijin cut in with a smirk. "Forget the Association; I''m more curious about how Grandma''s going to react. You calling her, or should I?"


    I sighed, already dreading the conversation. "I''ll handle it. But if she starts lecturing me about ancient curses, I''m putting her on speaker."


    The call to Grandma went about as well as I expected.


    "You found


    what


    ?" she asked sharply after my brief explanation. "And you didn''t break anything?"


    "Why does everyone assume I break things?" I muttered.


    "Because you do, Tsukasa. Now, what exactly are you planning to do with this discovery?"


    I glanced at the team for backup, but Kijin only gave me an unhelpful thumbs-up. Asakawa looked mildly amused, which somehow felt worse.


    "Take it to the Association, obviously," I said. "They''ll want a full report."


    Grandma''s pause on the other end of the line was unnervingly long. "Be careful, Tsukasa. You don''t know what kind of people this might attract. Not everyone values knowledge for the right reasons."


    : Grandma dropping truth bombs.


    : This is why we love her. No nonsense.


    : Someone get Tsukasa a notepad. He needs this wisdom.


    We reached the city by late afternoon, the familiar sights and sounds of bustling streets feeling oddly jarring after days of eerie silence. As we walked, Raijuu kept close to my side, his usual energy subdued¡ªhe probably sensed my growing tension about what lay ahead.


    "We should regroup at the caf¨¦," Asakawa suggested. "The others need to be brought up to speed before we contact the Association."


    Our usual spot wasn''t fancy, but it was private enough for strategy sessions. Inside, the smell of coffee and pastries was a welcome change from stale dungeon air. Panda and Mimika were already there, surrounded by a chaotic sprawl of maps, notes, and half-eaten sandwiches.


    "Boss!" Panda called out, waving me over. His enthusiasm was as infectious as ever, though the nervous energy in his posture made it clear he wasn''t quite sure what to expect.


    "What happened?" Mimika asked, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Did you find something crazy?"


    "That''s one way to put it," I said, sliding into a chair. "Let''s just say the spire wasn''t your average dungeon."


    Kijin and Asakawa took turns breaking down the details, from the celestial device to the inscriptions that hinted at a civilization far beyond our understanding. The newbies listened with rapt attention, their expressions ranging from awe to mild panic. S§×arch* The ¦Çov§×lFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Panda looks like he just realized he signed up for a cosmic horror movie.


    : Mimika''s ready to dive into the spire herself. Brave soul.


    Asakawa finished by pulling out a rough sketch of the celestial alignments we''d uncovered. "This is just the tip of the iceberg. If our theories are correct, this could redefine how we understand dungeons altogether."


    The table fell silent, the gravity of her words sinking in. Even chat seemed unusually quiet¡ªuntil someone inevitably broke the tension.


    : Or it''s just a fancy light show. Who knows?


    : Classic Asagao, making it all sound so cool.


    : Tsukasa, try not to break the actual iceberg when you find it.


    With the team updated and plans in place, we turned our attention to logistics. Asakawa, ever the planner, outlined the next steps with her usual efficiency.


    "First, we secure the site. Then, we contact the Association with a detailed report," she said. "And after that... we see where it takes us."


    "And by ''where it takes us,'' you mean more danger and chaos, right?" Panda asked nervously.


    "Welcome to dungeon exploration," Kijin said with a grin, clapping him on the back.


    As we wrapped up the meeting, my phone buzzed. The name on the screen made my stomach drop: Kamishiro Rion. The flood of messages that followed was predictably chaotic.


    "Yo, Tsu-kun! Saw your spire posts. Crazy stuff! ???? Let''s talk!"


    "Why haven''t you followed me back yet? Rude."


    "Also, I found something wild. You''re going to love it. Or hate it. Probably both."


    I groaned audibly, drawing curious looks from the team. "Rion''s back."


    "Of course she is," Kijin said, not even trying to hide her amusement.


    "What does she want this time?" Asakawa asked, though her tone suggested she already knew the answer.


    "She says it''s ''wild.'' Which probably means trouble," I muttered, already bracing myself for whatever chaos awaited.


    : Rion''s about to hijack the story. Buckle up, folks.


    : Poor Tsukasa. Can''t catch a break.


    With our immediate plans set, I decided to deal with Rion later. The spire report came first¡ªafter all, even Rion couldn''t outshine ancient cosmic mysteries.


    Probably.

 Chapter 159 - 159: Reporting the Unbelievable

    The Explorer''s Association building loomed over us like a modern fortress, its glass panels gleaming under the morning sun. Despite having been here countless times, today felt heavier¡ªlike the weight of the spire''s secrets had followed me out of the dungeon.


    Asakawa, walking beside me, kept glancing at her phone, her brow furrowed. "You''ve seen the trending tags, right?"


    "I haven''t," I admitted. "Too busy dealing with real-world consequences."


    "Well, UNKNOWN, Kisaragi Tsukasa, and Asagao are all trending right now," she said, tilting her screen toward me. "Also, there are conspiracy theories about you being a dungeon AI or an alien."


    I snorted. "An AI wouldn''t have to deal with student loans."


    Her laugh was short-lived as she scrolled further. "Still, this is big. Everyone''s talking about the spire. There''s even a hashtag about my stream¡ª#AsagaoSavedLives."


    I stopped in my tracks, rubbing the back of my neck. "That stream probably caused more chaos than it saved."


    "Hey, I didn''t mean for it to blow up like this!" she protested. "I was just trying to help."


    "I know. But now we''re here to clean up the mess."


    The Association''s lobby was a hive of activity, as usual. Explorers, researchers, and admin staff moved about with purpose, their conversations blending into a low hum. Despite the crowd, I could feel the occasional glance in my direction¡ªrecognition spreading faster than I''d anticipated.


    "Let''s get this over with," I muttered, leading the way to the reception desk.


    The clerk greeted us with a practiced smile. "Ah, Mr. Kisaragi. The branch chief is expecting you. Conference Room 3."


    "Thanks," I replied curtly, adjusting the strap of my bag.


    Asakawa nudged me. "You don''t have to be so grumpy. It''s not like they''re going to scold you."


    "They might scold you," I said, earning an exaggerated pout.


    The branch chief was already seated when we arrived, flipping through a tablet with a look that screamed "overtime-induced exhaustion." He barely glanced up as we entered.


    "Kisaragi. Asagao. Good work on the spire," he said, his tone more functional than friendly. "Though I see you''ve caused quite the stir online."


    I slid into the chair across from him. "If you''re about to lecture me about PR, don''t bother. I''ve already heard it from Grandma."


    "Lecture? No, no," he said with a dismissive wave. "If anything, the publicity might work in our favor. Public interest in dungeon exploration has been declining¡ªyour little stunt could reignite it."


    Asakawa perked up. "So you''re not mad about the stream?"


    "Let''s call it a double-edged sword," he said, his gaze sharp despite his casual tone. "The good news is, people are paying attention. The bad news? They''re paying attention to you. Expect a lot more scrutiny moving forward."


    "Great," I muttered. "Just what I needed."


    The chief chuckled, sliding his tablet across the table. "Speaking of scrutiny, your identity as UNKNOWN is no longer a secret. It''s trending everywhere."


    "I figured as much."


    "Any concerns?"


    "Not really. If anything, this simplifies things. Now I don''t have to explain why I keep disappearing from school."


    Asakawa snorted, earning a sharp look from the chief. "And you, Miss Asagao. Your stream was¡­ unconventional, but effective. The evacuation went smoother thanks to your efforts. Just don''t make a habit of live-streaming crises without consulting us first."


    She nodded sheepishly. "Got it. No more unplanned heroics."


    Outside, Asakawa leaned against the wall, her phone in hand as she scrolled through the endless notifications. "This is insane," she muttered. "People are messaging me non-stop. My friends, my fans¡­ even my old teachers are reaching out."


    I raised an eyebrow. "Your teachers?"


    "Yeah. One of them said they always knew I was destined for greatness." She rolled her eyes. "This is too much."


    "Welcome to my life," I said dryly.


    She shot me a look. "You don''t even check your messages."


    "Exactly."


    By the time we made it back to school, the whispers had already begun. Students clustered in small groups, their conversations halting as we passed. I kept my head down, hoping to make it to my seat without incident. Asakawa, on the other hand, seemed to thrive under the attention, waving and smiling like she was on a victory lap.


    "Good morning, Tsukasa-kun!" she said cheerfully as we reached our classroom.


    "Morning," I muttered, sliding into my seat. "Enjoying the spotlight?"


    "Not as much as you," she teased, gesturing to the growing crowd of curious onlookers. "You''re the talk of the school."


    "Lucky me."


    Before she could respond, another voice cut in. "Morning, Kisaragi-kun!"


    I looked up to see Nonohara Akari, one of Asakawa''s friends, grinning at me. "So, it''s true? You''re the mysterious UNKNOWN?"


    "Y-Yeah, I guess," I said, already regretting showing up today.


    Akari leaned closer, her expression turning curious. "Hey, do you think I could make it to the middle floors? I''ve been training a lot."


    "That¡­ depends," I said cautiously.


    "On what?"


    "On how much you like being alive."


    She blinked, then burst out laughing. "Wow, you''re blunt."


    "Not when it comes to dungeons," I replied.


    The morning dragged on, the weight of everyone''s stares growing heavier with each passing minute. By lunchtime, I was ready to bolt, but Asakawa had other plans.


    "Let''s eat in the cafeteria today," she said, dragging me along before I could protest.


    The cafeteria was no better. The moment we entered, conversations ceased, and all eyes turned to us. Asakawa, ever the extrovert, waved it off and led me to a table in the corner.


    "Relax," she said, unwrapping her lunch. "It''s not like they''re going to swarm you."


    "They might," I muttered. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    She laughed, but her expression softened. "Hey, you''re handling this better than I thought."


    "What''s that supposed to mean?"


    "Well, you''re not hiding in the library," she teased.


    "I''m considering it."


    Her laughter was warm, and for a moment, the tension eased. But as I glanced around the room, the whispers continued, reminding me that my life had taken a sharp turn into chaos.


    When the bell rang, signaling the end of lunch, I stood abruptly, eager to escape. But as I turned to leave, a familiar voice called out.


    "Kisaragi!"


    I froze, recognizing the sharp tone instantly. Turning slowly, I saw Ikemen-kun storming toward me, his face a mask of barely restrained anger.


    "I told you not to get cocky," he growled, kicking a desk as he approached.


    "Great. This guy again," I muttered.


    Before I could respond, Asakawa stepped between us, her expression calm but firm. "Kurihara-kun, you''re making a scene."


    He scowled. "Stay out of this, Asakawa. This is between me and him."


    "Actually, it''s between you and school policy," she said, gesturing to the damaged desk. "Vandalism''s a punishable offense, you know."


    Kurihara hesitated, his anger faltering under her sharp gaze. I took the opportunity to step around him, making my way to the door.


    "Let it go," I said over my shoulder. "You''re not worth the trouble."


    His shout followed me down the hall, but I didn''t bother looking back. Some fights just weren''t worth my time.

 Chapter 160 - 160: Whispers of the Forbidden

    The eerie silence of the Forbidden Floor was shattered by the growl that reverberated through the mist. The sound wasn''t just loud¡ªit was primal, resonating deep in my chest like the roar of some ancient predator. My fingers twitched, the weight of my blade suddenly feeling heavier. Raij¨± snarled in response, its electric arcs illuminating the thick black fog around us.


    Grandma, unfazed as ever, glanced at the team behind us. "Stay close. If you get separated, you won''t survive."


    Her words were blunt, but no one argued. Even the most seasoned S-rank explorers in the group tightened their grips on their weapons. This wasn''t a dungeon where ego had any place.


    "Do you recognize that sound?" I asked, keeping my voice low.


    "No," Grandma replied, her sharp gaze scanning the darkness. "But whatever it is, it''s hunting us."


    : This is straight out of a nightmare.


    : UNKNOWN better flex those EX-rank skills.


    : Raij¨± looks like it''s about to zap everything.


    I ignored the chat, focusing on the path ahead. The black mist seemed to move with purpose, curling and shifting as if alive. The faint glow of the dungeon walls barely pierced through, casting long shadows that played tricks on the eyes.


    "Raij¨±, scout ahead," I commanded.


    The lightning yokai leaped forward, its electric aura crackling against the mist. Grandma''s sharp eyes followed its movements, and I could tell she was analyzing every detail, every flicker of movement.


    "Be ready to summon Hashihime," she said. "If this thing attacks, we''ll need barriers."


    I nodded, already forming the spell in my mind. Hashihime wasn''t the most combat-effective shikigami, but her defensive capabilities were second to none. If something broke through her barriers, it wasn''t something we could fight head-on.


    We moved cautiously, the mist growing denser with every step. The growls came again, closer this time, and I felt the weight of a thousand unseen eyes watching us. My grip on the blade tightened, my palms slick with sweat.


    "Stop," Grandma ordered abruptly, raising a hand.


    The team froze. Even Akari, who had been quietly streaming from the back, lowered her camera. The air around us had shifted, growing colder and heavier.


    "What is it?" I asked.


    Grandma didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she pointed to a faint shimmer in the mist ahead. It was subtle, barely visible, but unmistakable¡ªa distortion in the air, like heat waves rising off asphalt.


    "A barrier," she said. "Powerful, too. It''s masking whatever''s beyond it."


    "Can we break through it?" one of the S-rank explorers asked.


    Grandma shook her head. "Breaking it would take too much time and energy. Kisaragi, this is where you come in."


    "Me?" I blinked, caught off guard.


    "You''re the only one here who''s dealt with Forbidden Floors directly. If there''s a way to bypass this barrier, you''ll sense it."


    Great. No pressure or anything.


    I stepped forward, summoning my magic. Closing my eyes, I let the energy flow through me, searching for any weaknesses in the barrier. The air around me pulsed with an almost sentient resistance, as if the barrier itself were alive.


    "There," I said, pointing to a spot where the mist seemed thinner, the distortion less pronounced. "That''s the weak point."


    Grandma nodded. "Good. Gozu, Mezu¡ªprotect the team. Hashihime, create a fallback barrier."


    I summoned Hashihime and the two guardian yokai, their towering forms appearing with a flash of light. Gozu and Mezu took defensive positions on either side of the team, while Hashihime raised her hand, creating a shimmering wall of energy behind us.


    "Let''s move," Grandma said.


    We passed through the weak point in the barrier, the air growing colder and heavier as we crossed the threshold. The mist thinned slightly, revealing a vast, open chamber. At its center stood a massive structure¡ªa black, crystalline spire that seemed to pulse with an eerie, otherworldly light.


    "That''s it," Grandma said, her voice uncharacteristically quiet. "The source."


    The spire was unlike anything I''d seen in a dungeon before. Its surface was smooth and reflective, but the light it emitted was chaotic, shifting in color and intensity like a heartbeat. It felt alive.


    "Raij¨±, stay close," I murmured.


    The yokai returned to my side, its electric aura flickering uneasily. Even it could sense the unnatural energy emanating from the spire.


    : What is that thing?


    : This is way beyond normal dungeon stuff.


    : UNKNOWN, don''t touch it!


    For once, I agreed with the chat.


    Grandma stepped closer, her eyes narrowing as she studied the spire. "It''s a core, but¡­ different. Bigger. More powerful."


    "Can we destroy it?" I asked.


    "Possibly," she said, her tone grim. "But doing so might destabilize the entire floor. Maybe the whole dungeon."


    "And if we leave it alone?"


    She didn''t answer. The unspoken truth was clear¡ªleaving the spire intact wasn''t an option. Whatever this thing was, it was too dangerous to ignore.


    Before we could decide on our next move, the growl came again, louder and deeper than before. From the shadows around the spire, multiple sets of glowing red eyes emerged. The creatures stepped into the light, revealing themselves to be massive, wolf-like beasts with obsidian-black fur and razor-sharp fangs.


    "Guardian monsters," Grandma said, drawing her weapon. "They won''t let us near the core."


    I summoned ¨­mukade, the massive centipede yokai towering above us. "I''ll handle the big ones. Can you take the left flank?"


    Grandma smirked. "Try to keep up, boy."


    As the first wolf charged, ¨­mukade lunged forward, its segmented body coiling around the beast and crushing it with brutal force. On the left flank, Grandma moved with deadly precision, her blade slicing through another wolf like a hot knife through butter.


    The team behind us held their ground, fending off smaller wolves that darted toward the rear. Akari, ever the opportunist, kept her camera rolling, capturing every moment.


    : Is this a boss fight?


    : Grandma is terrifying.


    : ¨­mukade is so OP!


    "Focus!" I snapped, slicing through another wolf with a mana-infused strike.


    The battle raged on, the wolves relentless in their assault. But for every beast that fell, another seemed to take its place. The spire pulsed brighter, as if feeding off the chaos.


    "This isn''t sustainable," I muttered, summoning Kama-itachi to clear a path.


    "Then stop playing defense," Grandma said, her blade glowing with magic. "Go for the core."


    "But¡ª"


    "Now, Kisaragi!"


    Her command left no room for argument. Taking a deep breath, I charged toward the spire, dodging and weaving through the chaos. Raij¨± leaped ahead of me, clearing a path with bolts of lightning. The spire loomed closer, its energy growing more oppressive with every step.


    I raised my blade, preparing to strike.


    And then the ground beneath me shattered.


    The floor splintered like glass beneath my feet, plunging me into darkness. I barely managed to summon Hashihime in time, her protective barrier enveloping me as I fell. The air grew colder, sharper, the oppressive energy from the spire now wrapping around me like a suffocating blanket.


    "Tsukasa!" Grandma''s voice echoed faintly from above, but the roar of collapsing rock drowned out any further words.


    I hit the ground hard, the impact knocking the wind out of me. Hashihime''s barrier had absorbed most of the fall, but the landing still left me disoriented. Gritting my teeth, I pushed myself up, scanning my surroundings. The cavern I''d fallen into was enormous, illuminated by the same eerie light as the spire above. But here, the light felt heavier, more concentrated, and the oppressive energy was almost tangible.


    Raij¨± appeared beside me, its fur sparking with unease. "Stay close," I muttered, gripping my blade tightly. "We''re not alone."


    The sound of claws scraping against stone confirmed my suspicion. From the shadows, creatures began to emerge¡ªsmaller than the wolves above but no less menacing. These were humanoid, with elongated limbs and glowing eyes that radiated malice. Their movements were jerky, unnatural, as if they were puppets controlled by an unseen force.


    "Hashihime, hold the line," I commanded, summoning her barrier again. The yokai''s spectral form shimmered into existence, her barrier forming a protective dome around me and Raij¨±.


    The creatures hesitated, their glowing eyes fixated on the barrier. For a moment, it seemed they wouldn''t dare cross it. Then the spire''s pulse intensified, and one of the creatures lunged forward, smashing into the barrier with a sickening crack.


    Hashihime''s barrier held, but the force of the impact sent a shiver through the ground. The other creatures followed suit, clawing and pounding at the barrier in a frenzy. It wouldn''t hold forever.


    "¨­mukade!" I called, summoning the massive centipede. The yokai burst forth, its segmented body coiling protectively around the barrier. With a guttural screech, it lashed out, its powerful mandibles tearing into the attacking creatures.


    The chat, still active on my phone''s screen, buzzed with commentary.


    : Did he just fall through the floor?


    : This is why you don''t play solo, man.


    : ¨­mukade MVP as always.


    I ignored the chat, focusing on the fight. Despite ¨­mukade''s efforts, the creatures kept coming, their numbers seemingly endless. The spire''s pulsing light grew brighter with each passing moment, and I could feel its energy pulling at me, beckoning me closer.


    "We can''t keep this up," I muttered, summoning Gashadokuro. The skeletal giant materialized with a deafening roar, its massive hands slamming into the ground to crush the advancing creatures. But even Gashadokuro''s overwhelming presence wasn''t enough to stem the tide.


    Raij¨± growled, its lightning sparking erratically. It was as if the spire''s energy was affecting even my shikigami, their usual precision and strength faltering under its oppressive influence.


    I needed to act. Fast.


    Taking a deep breath, I dispelled Hashihime''s barrier and pointed my blade toward the spire. "Raij¨±, ¨­mukade, cover me."


    The yokai obeyed without hesitation, their attacks intensifying as I sprinted toward the spire. The creatures swarmed around me, but Raij¨±''s lightning and ¨­mukade''s crushing blows carved a path through the chaos.


    As I approached the spire, the oppressive energy became almost unbearable. My vision blurred, and my legs felt like lead, but I forced myself forward. The spire''s surface was smooth and cold, its black crystal glowing with an otherworldly light.


    I raised my blade, channeling my magic into its edge. "Let''s see what you''re hiding," I muttered, slashing at the spire with all my strength.


    The impact sent a shockwave through the cavern, and for a moment, everything went still. Then the spire cracked, its light flaring brightly before dimming. The creatures around me froze, their glowing eyes flickering like dying embers.


    "Did that¡­ work?" I whispered, lowering my blade.


    Before I could catch my breath, the ground began to quake violently. The spire''s light returned, brighter and more erratic than before. Cracks spread across its surface, and a deep, guttural roar echoed through the cavern.


    "Of course not," I muttered, stepping back as the spire shattered.


    From its core emerged a massive, serpentine creature, its body composed of the same black crystal as the spire. Its eyes glowed with a malevolent light, and its roar shook the very air.


    "Raij¨±, get ready," I said, summoning Kama-itachi to my side. "This just got a whole lot worse."


    The serpent lunged, its crystal fangs aiming straight for me. Raij¨± intercepted it with a bolt of lightning, while Kama-itachi''s razor-sharp winds carved into its body. But the serpent barely flinched, its movements fluid and relentless.


    : Boss fight time!


    : Is this the Forbidden Floor''s guardian?


    : UNKNOWN better not die on us now.


    "Not planning on it," I muttered, charging forward to join the fight. Whatever this creature was, it wasn''t going down without a fight¡ªand neither was I.


    I darted to the side as the serpent''s crystalline tail came crashing down, obliterating the ground where I had stood moments ago. The sheer force of its attack sent shards of crystal and dust flying in all directions. Raij¨± snarled, leaping onto the serpent''s back and unleashing a surge of electricity into its crystalline hide. Sparks danced across its surface, illuminating the cavern in erratic flashes, but the beast didn''t slow.


    "Kama-itachi, focus on its weak points!" I yelled, summoning a flurry of wind slashes aimed at the serpent''s glowing eyes. The weasel-like shikigami obeyed, its crescent-shaped wind blades striking true and forcing the serpent to recoil with an ear-splitting screech.


    "¨­mukade, pin its tail!" I commanded, summoning the centipede to anchor the serpent''s rear. With a screech of its own, ¨­mukade lunged forward, coiling its massive body around the serpent''s tail and sinking its mandibles into the crystalline surface.


    The serpent thrashed wildly, trying to free itself from ¨­mukade''s grip. With its movements restricted, I seized the opportunity to strike. Channeling magic into my blade, I dashed toward the beast''s exposed flank and slashed with all my might. The impact sent cracks rippling through its crystal hide, but the serpent''s roar told me I''d only succeeded in angering it.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me," I muttered, jumping back as the serpent unleashed a burst of energy from its core. The shockwave sent me sprawling, and I barely had time to roll to my feet before the serpent lunged at me again.


    Raij¨± intercepted it once more, its lightning surging into the serpent''s open maw. The attack bought me a moment to regroup, but the serpent''s resilience was becoming a problem.


    : This thing is insane!


    : Is UNKNOWN even making a dent?


    : ¨­mukade looks like it''s hanging on for dear life. S§×arch* The n?vel_Fire.¦Çet website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.


    : Raij¨± is MVP again.


    I wiped the sweat from my brow, glancing at the chat on my phone''s screen. The commentary was unhelpful as always, but at least it reminded me that people were watching. I couldn''t afford to lose here¡ªnot with the world''s attention on the Forbidden Floor.


    "Kama-itachi, cover me!" I shouted, summoning another flurry of wind blades to distract the serpent. As the creature recoiled, I summoned Gashadokuro, pouring as much magic as I could into the skeletal giant.


    The massive shikigami emerged with a deafening roar, its glowing eyes locking onto the serpent. Gashadokuro raised one of its enormous hands and brought it crashing down onto the serpent''s body, pinning it to the ground. The impact sent tremors through the cavern, and for a moment, I thought we might have the upper hand.


    But the serpent wasn''t done yet. Its crystalline body glowed brighter, and with a burst of energy, it shattered Gashadokuro''s grip and sent the skeletal giant staggering backward. The serpent coiled tightly, its glowing eyes locked onto me.


    "This is getting ridiculous," I muttered, summoning Hashihime for support. Her barrier shimmered into existence just as the serpent lunged, its fangs bouncing off the protective shield. The yokai''s calm, unyielding presence gave me a moment to think.


    "Okay, think, Tsukasa," I muttered to myself. "The spire was its core. It''s connected to this thing. If I can sever that connection¡­"


    My eyes darted to the remnants of the spire, where faint traces of its chaotic energy still lingered. If I could disrupt whatever link the serpent had to the spire, it might weaken the beast enough for a decisive blow.


    "Raij¨±, Kama-itachi, distract it!" I ordered, sprinting toward the shattered remains of the spire. The two shikigami obeyed without hesitation, their combined efforts keeping the serpent occupied as I reached the glowing remnants.


    The energy radiating from the shards was almost unbearable, but I forced myself to focus. Channeling my magic, I created a barrier around the shards, isolating their energy. The serpent immediately reacted, its thrashing growing more frantic as it sensed the disruption.


    "That''s it," I muttered, pouring more magic into the barrier. "Let''s see how you like fighting without your power source."


    The serpent''s glow dimmed, its movements becoming sluggish. Raij¨±''s lightning strikes and Kama-itachi''s wind blades began to leave visible damage, and even ¨­mukade''s mandibles started to crack through its crystalline hide.


    "Gashadokuro, finish it!" I shouted, summoning the skeletal giant once more.


    With a guttural roar, Gashadokuro raised both hands and brought them down onto the serpent''s head, crushing it into the ground. The creature let out one final, ear-splitting screech before its body shattered into countless shards, the glowing fragments fading into nothingness.


    : HE DID IT!!!


    : That was insane!


    : Gashadokuro for the win!


    : Raij¨±''s MVP as always.


    : UNKNOWN is unstoppable!


    I collapsed to my knees, gasping for breath as the adrenaline began to fade. The cavern was silent now, the oppressive energy finally dissipating. Raij¨± and the other shikigami disappeared one by one, their energy spent.


    I glanced at the remnants of the spire, now completely dark. Whatever power had fueled the serpent was gone, but the spire''s existence raised more questions than answers.


    "Forbidden Floor, huh?" I muttered to myself, standing shakily. "I don''t think I''ll ever get used to this."


    : Tsukasa, you okay?


    : Don''t die on us, man.


    : Take a breather, you''ve earned it.


    "Yeah, yeah, I''m fine," I muttered, pocketing my phone. "Thanks for the concern, I guess."


    Now came the hard part¡ªfiguring out what the Explorer Association would make of all this. With the spire gone, I had no proof of what had transpired here, save for the shattered shards and the memories burned into my mind.


    I started making my way back to the surface, one thought lingering in my mind: if this was just one Forbidden Floor, what else was out there?