Third Dungeon Battle: End

"I might never have laughed this hard since I was born. As I thought, Kehma-kun is truly amusing. You're the best. Ah, don't worry — the other teams haven't been connected since the reward segment started."

"Haha, that's a relief. For my dignity as a man… no, seriously…"

Using that embarrassing situation to steer the conversation away from skills actually worked out. I should consider it an acceptable result, but just remembering it makes me want to cry.

A lot got exposed, but I was able to confirm some worthwhile things through Haku-san's investigation. I'll verify it myself again when I get back.

"By the way, Kehma-san. Would you like the S-Rank adventurer title as a Hero?"

"… No thanks."

"Heroes are normally forced to be S-Rank though."

"Wouldn't it be problematic for Haku-san to have a Hero permanently stationed at [Cave of Desires]? It would attract too much attention."

"Oh? I don't particularly mind either way. At this point, it wouldn't change much. In fact, wouldn't it serve as a deterrent against unnecessary trouble?"

That certainly was an attractive proposal. But at the same time, I'd have to take on the responsibilities of being a Hero.

"Don't Heroes have to work for the country during emergencies?"

"Yes. That's why they're given preferential treatment."

"I'll decline. I'm not a Hero — I'm a Dungeon Master."

And I absolutely don't want to work.

Ah, right. Maybe if I transform into Rokuko and ask cutely, she'd let me off?

… Better not. If I screw it up and touch a nerve, that would be bad.

"… Well, alright. You are a Dungeon Master after all."

Saying that, Haku-san returned to her chair.

[Father] clapped his hands to gather attention. This time, monitors for Team Demon King and Team Dragon King appeared alongside [Father]'s monitor, so it seems communications are open to everyone now.

"Now then, Haku, 5, 6. I'd like each of you to say a few words."

"Then I'll start as the winner…5, have you learned that you're nothing more than a mere lizard after all? From now on, know your place and pay me proper respect. Of course, you don't have to — that is, if you have objections to the results of this battle overseen by Otou-sama."

"Ugu! … Gunuuun…"

"…6. Discipline your subordinates better. And having them call you Jii-sama — isn't that disrespectful to Otou-sama in a way? Ah, perhaps it means you're a senile old fool? In that case, no problem. Fufu."

"Hmph, prattle on."

Haku-san, you're totally gloating! I'd be troubled if this started a war. Haven't these escalated from Dungeon Battles to actual wars between nations several times? Super annoying.

"Next is me, since I got second place…89, no, Haku. We're from the same batch and the same age. If I'm an old man, then you're quite the old hag, aren't you? Don't strain yourself trying to look young. No, perhaps it's because your mental age never grew that you remain such a little girl? Hahaha, I'm so envious of your youth! Must be nice not having to face life's truths and carve wrinkles into yourself."

"Oh? Is that what the loser is babbling about?"

"Hmph, the loss is because 666 invested in her own enhancement. In the long run, 666 is the real winner here."

"Fufu, so what? My Rokuko-chan saved quite a bit of DP from this battle too. Enough that we could do this again and still win."

She's fanning the flames. We just finished and she's already trying to start another fight.

Also, doing this again would be a huge pain, so please spare me.

"Oi, it's my turn next, right? Good. Listen up, this result isn't my loss. Leading those three was a handicap to begin with. Next time—"

"Excuses are unbecoming."

"The loser lizard who only knows brute force should keep quiet. How unsightly."

"…"

"Speaking of unsightly, 6's—"

"Kakaka, that's rich coming from you, Haku, you're—"

Ah, he went quiet. And Haku-san and Core 6 resumed their verbal sparring.

… Behind Core 6, Aidi was watching enviously. What? Does this look like a loving chat to her? I won't do it, you know. Even if you keep glancing over here with that slightly excited face and quickened breathing, I absolutely refuse to have this war-triggering kind of argument with you!

Don't look at Rokuko either! But she's a friend, you say? No means no!

[Father] snapped his fingers. Immediately, Haku-san and Core 6 stopped their quarrel and turned their attention to him.

"Otou-san is happy that everyone gets along so well. It's regrettable, but it's about time. Would you like to say your goodbyes?"

"Hey, 695… Rokuko! Just because Tou-sama recognized your name doesn't mean you should get cocky! I won't lose again!"

"Ooooi, 650! What are you doing, interrupting while Father is speaking!? Looks like I need to educate you more strictly… prepare yourself! 651, 652, you'll share in the responsibility too!"

"Gekokoo!?"

"P-please forgive us, 5-samaaa!"

"Hahaha, I did ask for goodbyes, so I don't mind. 5, please go easy on them with the education."

When [Father] said that with a smile, 5 didn't say anything more.

Core 650's face had gone pale despite being a snake.

By the way, Aidi seemed to be watching Rokuko's face with a smile. Rokuko, well, returned the smile with a "since we're friends" kind of feeling, but somehow Aidi gives off the same vibe as Haku-san.

Right, let's pretend I saw nothing.

"Well then everyone, let's meet again at the next assembly!"

With [Father]'s final words, the communications were cut.

With this, our third Dungeon Battle came to an end.

It felt like it took a really long time.