Chapter 91

The dungeon exploration, which also served as an introduction for Worm and the Three Magic Strikes party, proceeded like the initial grinding of new metal parts, repeating battles. Their actions seemed to be testing the load on Worm, a component that had been integrated, to ensure no malfunctions occurred.

Even as he faintly sensed their intentions, Worm acted as he normally would. Altering his movements too much would defeat the purpose of the test. The party did not delve deeper into the levels but actively searched for and eliminated monsters. In this way, Worm turned countless monsters into rust on his halberd. The prolonged battles continued until dwarves appeared on the hunting grounds.

The reason for the interruption was obvious. Their nature and combat style attracted monsters. Moreover, they seemed to be competing to wipe out every last one. Perhaps it was the dwarves' way of welcoming Worm to the Three Magic Strikes party, or a show of strength. Considering the hearty laughter that lingered in Worm's ears, it might have been a simple competition of the number of kills. After leaving the dungeon, Worm returned to the inn where the party members exchanged greetings. A brief meal was followed by a debriefing to foster mutual understanding.

"Worm, it was fortunate to have you join our party. You fulfilled the role of the front-liner, which we relied on, beyond our expectations. Additionally, your suppression with magic reduced the burden on Yuna and me."

Meryl glanced at the seated members, asking if there were any objections.

"You are a member capable of reaching the bottom of the dungeon as a conqueror. However, I would like Worm to make a few adjustments and share his thoughts."

Worm did not think he could master everything immediately. While he had extensive experience in small-scale combat, he was learning that fighting in the dark, enclosed spaces of the dungeon, where monsters continuously spawned, required the party's unique tactics and specialized combat skills.

"I have no objections."

"As I said before, Worm has more than adequately fulfilled the role of the front-liner. It's no wonder, given how far you've come alone. However, you are too fixated on the front-liner role. Even when working with Yuna, you attract too much attention to yourself. Depending on the situation, I would like you to rely more on Yuna."

"I am also strong in close combat."

Despite her expressionless face, Yuna sounded quite proud. Indeed, Worm had been so focused on his assigned front-liner role that he lacked a clear plan for when the front line broke or was breached. Thinking that it would never happen was arrogant and shortsighted.

"Your enthusiasm is evident. However, it's a waste to get injured in situations where it's unnecessary, especially when aiming for the bottom."

Worm had always prioritized ending battles quickly in the dungeon. With multiple members, there might have been other approaches, but as a solo adventurer, he had no backup and limited options. This was a result of his solo expeditions. Meryl, giving Worm time to process and absorb the feedback, continued.

"Use your teammates to your advantage. Worm, you used to be a soldier, right? You must have had comrades who fought alongside you."

Worm had acted alone at times, but for the most part, he had not fought alone. He had comrades who, despite their grumbling, would jump into danger and trust each other's backs.

"...Yes, I did."

"It hasn't been long since we joined forces. Is it too difficult to do so now? Or is it a matter of trust?"

"No, it's neither. Perhaps it's my temperament, but I was too tense. I'll rely on you more from now on."

"That's a good answer."

Meryl nodded in satisfaction at Worm's response.

"Of course, you can rely on me. I'm confident in my durability."

Hari, who had been listening silently, spoke with a loving expression. His buttocks could withstand a direct hit from a mace. To Hari, minor attacks were like a child's play.

"Ah, yeah, sure."

Worm responded hesitantly. While he could take Hari's words at face value, given Hari's past behavior, he couldn't fully agree. Marianthe, who shared Worm's concerns, voiced them.

"When Hari says it, it sounds like there's more to it."

"Marianthe, it's not good to have suspicion among teammates."

"Hmm, that's a monk's way of thinking..."

Meryl comforted the hesitant Marianthe.

"Sometimes Hari returns to his senses."

"Maybe if we give him a strong shock to the head..."

Marianthe, who had let slip half of her thought, stared at the mace she had leaned against. Sensing her intent, Meryl slowly shook his head.

"Marianthe, it's better not to. It might help, but it could also make things worse."

Marianthe, with no response, reluctantly gave up on the drastic measure, looking genuinely disappointed. Worm also hoped it would be a last resort.

"Next, let's talk about magic and skills. I didn't get to show it, but the reason I'm called the Three Magic Strikes is because of these skills. Marianthe's support magic is also—"

It would take endless time for the five, with different values, backgrounds, and origins, to deepen their understanding. The post-dungeon debriefing covered a wide range of topics, from combat to rest and meals. The debriefing, which began as the sun set, continued until the twin moons reached their zenith.

◆

Worm, not a member of the Adventurer's Guild, joined the Three Magic Strikes party as a hired porter or guide. This caused confusion within the guild. The cause was the black hole, the only connection to the dungeon. While several black holes, both public and private, existed in the Great Dungeon of Bergana, the one Worm used was for the lower levels, catering to beginners and those with lower skills. On the other hand, the black hole Meryl and his party used was for the middle and upper levels, accessible only to mid- and high-level adventurers within the guild.

The destination was the same dungeon, but the black holes themselves were different in terms of the quality and facilities of the waiting rooms. Worm could not enter the guild house, and even if he did, he could only access the request board and reception.

Meryl and his party, who usually used the black hole for the middle and upper levels, switched to the black hole for the lower levels to accompany Worm. This alarmed the Adventurer's Guild. For the Bergana branch, which had recently lost the oldest party, Faust, powerful parties were precious. It was unacceptable for one of the most powerful parties to use the black hole for the lower levels.

After much interpretation of internal regulations, it was decided that Worm could enter the guild house if he was contracted, but Meryl rejected the special treatment, fearing it would set a bad precedent. As a result, they continued to use the black hole for the lower levels.

The corridor leading to the waiting room was bustling with countless explorers who made their living in the dungeon. Worm followed the Three Magic Strikes, his half-boots clattering. Meryl's path naturally opened up, likely because others were yielding to him. Occasionally, new adventurers greeted Meryl.

"You're quite popular."

Worm had never received greetings when he explored the dungeon alone.

"It's not just my strength; I also look good. ...Worm, it's not nice to laugh through your nose."

Meryl protested, displeased with Worm's reaction. Worm, having been reprimanded, followed Meryl silently. When they reached the waiting room, a new party approached, but not to greet Meryl and his party, but Worm personally.

"Are you heading to the deeper levels?"

Worm searched his memory for the voice. It was Paleus, a new adventurer who had just started. Three companions stood behind him.

"Yes, that's right. How about you?"

"Thanks to the materials you provided, we can upgrade our equipment."

"Materials? Ah, those. I'm glad they were useful."

Worm was referring to the sharp spears of the Bone Collector he had defeated in the dungeon. A young member of Paleus's party held one like a treasure. After a few more words, Worm ended the conversation. Since joining the Three Magic Strikes party, more people had approached Worm. Realizing the importance of social credibility, Worm quietly lamented the unfairness of the world.

Turning at the sound of approaching footsteps, he saw Meryl, who had finished the registration, smiling as if to say he hadn't forgotten the earlier incident. He was probably still holding a grudge for being teased.

"It's my fault, so don't laugh so much. I've only just started getting adventurers to make eye contact with me."

"That's quite touching. ...Shall we go?"

Meryl, brushing off Worm's complaint, headed towards the transfer room. They wouldn't be returning to the surface for a while. Worm, feeling a tug at his heart, glanced back at the reception. Suddenly, he met the gaze of Reiji, the receptionist, who was sending him off. She paused her busy work and waved slightly. The silver bracelet on her wrist glinted in the sunlight streaming through the skylight.

Worm raised his left hand in response. He still hadn't thanked her for helping with the party recruitment. The negotiations with the guild regarding the use of the black hole had also been conducted through Reiji. Some form of compensation was needed.

"Worm, we're leaving without you!"

"Sorry, I'm coming."

Marianthe called out to Worm, who had slowed down. He was no different from a lost child. Shifting his gaze from Reiji, Worm refocused his mind on the dungeon he would continue to explore.