Chapter 100

Update ('ω')

"Rune!?"

On the morning of the day the dungeon was to be tackled, a shocking report reached us as we were making our final preparations.

Rune had been taken away by 'Fullbound'.

Until the day before yesterday, she had been staying at our cottage, but with our hands full with the dungeon preparations, we had to leave her in the care of the royal academy's guest cottage. It was there that 'Fullbound' came and took her away.

"I'm sorry, Yuke. While we all knew she was a special existence, I never thought they would take her on their own initiative... We have no choice but to remove them from the national commission."

The highest-ranking official on site, Duke Bedivere, apologized to me.

I wish he wouldn't apologize; it makes my heart shrink.

"What's going on?"

Hearing the commotion, the members of 'Scordia', who were preparing elsewhere, gathered.

The members of 'Carmine' did the same.

After explaining the situation, Lucient, who had been thinking small, asked me.

"What are you going to do, Yuke?"

"We'll start the dungeon exploration as planned."

"Wait, Yuke! You're just going to leave Rune!?"

Marina raised a voice of protest at my words.

The other members, though silent, also turned their gazes toward me.

I was a bit too hasty. I hadn't explained myself well enough.

"That's not what I meant. We need to catch up with 'Fullbound' either way. Let's proceed as usual first. They'll likely follow the planned route as well."

If we can catch up, we can protect Rune and hold them accountable for their actions.

To do that, we need to catch up with them safely and on schedule.

"I hope they're not pushing it too hard..."

"Agreed."

I nodded slightly to Marona of 'Carmine', who lowered her eyebrows.

Though we haven't known them long, 'Fullbound' is a party with proven strength.

Their combat skills, exploration, and efficiency are all top-notch.

However, they are eager for success... and a bit too excited.

They are overly focused on outperforming our A-rank party.

But this lack of teamwork has led to a serious situation.

"Hurry, Yuke."

"Right. The destination is the same. We'll attack according to the planned route."

I spread out the map and started the final meeting.

"Our target is the King's Chamber."

The location where the large-scale magic was activated is the 'King's Chamber'—the deepest part of Vordan Castle.

If we can get there, there must be some clue to resolve the situation.

It will be dangerous, but it's worth the risk.

"The dungeon's transformation may make the map unreliable. Each party, please be cautious."

Nodding at Mori's words, Lucient spoke up.

"I believe you understand, but the top priority is 'Clover's arrival. 'Scordia' and 'Carmine' will escort them, who are believed to be the dungeon's singularities. The honor and rewards will be shared. Let's focus on resolving the situation."

This was decided at the explorers' meeting, so there's no point in arguing now.

However, 'Fullbound's' decision to take the lead... and to take Rune, was probably the decisive factor.

To them, we 'Clover' are a C-rank party that has received special treatment.

Being asked to support us must have been frustrating.

They might want to monopolize the treasures and the glory of resolving the unprecedented crisis.

In the extreme, even if 'Fullbound' resolves the crisis on their own, it would be fine.

But taking Rune is definitely a no-go.

While she is related to 'Glad See-Im', she is also a vulnerable civilian who needs protection.

They should have requested our escort if they were going to take her.

"Let's start the exploration. We need to hurry, but not rush."

"Don't lose your cool, Yuke."

"I understand, Lucient. ... Duke Bedivere, I'm sorry, but we need to change our objective. First, we need to prioritize Rune's protection and return... Is that okay?"

"Of course. She is an important witness in this matter. We can't afford to have her harmed."

The Duke nodded deeply in agreement.

I think his response aligns well with both the truth and the formal stance.

"Everyone, let's do our best."

Turning around, I saw Marina and the others standing with a mix of relief and determination in their eyes.

"Sorry, Yuke. I..."

"I'm the one who should apologize. I didn't explain myself well and tried to appear too calm. The truth is, I'm quite worried too..."

As the leader of the 'Alliance', I can't afford to lose my composure.

Especially since I'm leading a seasoned A-rank party.

If I waver, it could affect our success rate.

"Alright. Let's start the exploration. Everyone, please."

The seniors, who had already finished their preparations, placed their hands on my shoulder.

"Don't put too much pressure on yourself. You can do it."

"Right, right. With you supporting us, we'll be fine."

They are such strong supporters.

I need to live up to their expectations as a supporter and leader of the party.

"'Clover', we're ready. Everyone, let's go!"

"Okay! Let's go get Rune!"

"Good luck, Yuke."

"The route is in my head. Let's hurry."

"I'll take the lead in reconnaissance!"

All four of them nodded with determination.

When they're like this, they are strong.

"Everyone, I'm counting on you."

Nodding to Duke Bedivere, we headed towards the underground waterway that leads to 'Glad See-Im'.

How was it ('ω')?

I hope you enjoyed it.