Chapter 16

Undead are a type of monster.

However, they seem to fall into a special category different from other monsters.

Well, when you think about it, they are resurrected dead, after all.

Compared to other monsters, they are even more unnatural beings that defy the laws of nature.

In this world, the Undead have distinct conditions for their creation that are clearly different from other monsters.

According to Plat's explanation, monsters are generated when mana (magic power?) condensed in dungeons.

The creation of Undead is fundamentally the same, but when a certain object serves as a medium during the condensation of mana, Undead are formed.

That object is a corpse.

In most cases, adventurers who challenge dungeons and never return become the material for Undead.

When the soul leaves the body, the stagnant mana in the dungeon inhabits it, and the being is reborn as an unnatural creature, the Undead.

Living Dead, Skeletons, Ghosts, Specters.

There are various types of Undead, but among them, the No-Life King stands out as a unique existence.

After all, while all other Undead are unwillingly transformed from those who died by accident, the No-Life King willingly abandoned his humanity and became an Undead while still alive.

* * *

"I became this body about a thousand years ago, I believe."

In the deepest level of the dungeon, which is the No-Life King's home, we were enjoying tea quite leisurely.

The atmosphere was no longer that of a dungeon conquest.

"In life, I served as an archbishop in a certain church. But I fled. The reason... hmm, what was it again?"

For him, we were the first visitors in decades.

Surprisingly, we were treated with great hospitality.

"I was pursued and had to run around everywhere before finally reaching this dungeon. There, I cast a forbidden spell, absorbed the stagnant mana in the dungeon, and became an Undead while still alive."

"To voluntarily become an Undead...! Ethically, it's banned, but the mastery level is extremely high, and only a few people in the world can use it," Plat was surprised.

"But why become an Undead? To take revenge on the church that expelled you by becoming a monster?"

"That's not it. I had a mission that I had to accomplish, even if it meant becoming a monstrous being."

"A mission?"

"I've forgotten what it was, though."

Come on, come on, come on.

If that's the case, there's no point in becoming an Undead.

"Existing for a thousand years means that even the most important things can be forgotten. Whatever important mission it was, after a thousand years, it's too late and meaningless."

It was a rather melancholic story.

"So, I've lost the meaning of my existence and am just an old man. What brings you all to such a remote place?"

"Well, we don't have any big business... but let me explain."

I told him that I had recently bought this land and started a pioneering life.

I wanted to live a peaceful and easy life by making a self-sufficient lifestyle work here.

Since monsters from this dungeon might cause harm, I came to investigate and eliminate them.

And that's how I met the No-Life King.

"I see, then you can rest assured. I manage this dungeon, so no monsters go out without permission."

"A dungeon with a master is a great help. It's well-organized and disciplined," Plat said admiringly.

"If the master is gentle, there's no damage to the surroundings. But if they are violent or cruel, it can be terrible...!!"

"Such dungeon masters are defeated by heroes. I've survived for a thousand years because I didn't cause any trouble," the No-Life King said.

Ha ha ha ha, Plat and the No-Life King laughed together.

Is that something to laugh about?

I still haven't quite grasped the humor in this fantasy world.

"If that's the case, Master, can we come into the dungeon from time to time and cause some trouble? I was thinking it could be a good place to gather quality materials."

"Sure, go ahead. I used to handle the excess monsters myself to prevent them from going outside. If you take care of them, it will save me the trouble."

Huh?

What does that mean?

"The purpose of entering the dungeon is not only to eliminate monsters that might harm the residential area but also to get monster materials, which is equally important!!"

"??"

"Some types of monsters have very delicious meat, and their fur and bones can be used as materials for tools! Having a dungeon of a suitable size nearby is very beneficial!"

"Really?"

I hadn't heard that at all.

I thought dungeons were just troublesome things that spread monsters and harm the surroundings.

"Moreover, a dungeon managed by a master that eliminates all the drawbacks is the best possible dungeon. It will make our home even more desirable!!"

"In my time, large cities were built around dungeons because they regularly produced valuable materials, like a treasure trove."

I see.

That's why Plat seemed reluctant when I asked if we should destroy the dungeon.

Fur and meat can't be obtained from fields, so a steady supply would be a great help.

Our pioneering life will develop even further.

"So, I hope we can be good neighbors from now on."

"Of course, if you visit from time to time and keep me company, I won't suffer from boredom."

And we gained a good neighbor!

A neighbor who is the most dangerous and immortal being!

* * *

"By the way, what should we call you, No-Life King? I haven't asked your name yet."

"Hmm... but I've been in this dungeon for hundreds of years without telling anyone my name, so I've forgotten it..."

Forgetting your own name is scary when living alone.

I can relate to that. Plat rolling in early might have really saved me.

But not having a name is a bit problematic...

Should I come up with a name for you?

"You were a great holy man in life, right? How about calling you 'Teacher'?"

"Sure, that's fine!"

Teacher No-Life King.

It seems we have gained a good neighbor.