Live Dungeon! – Chapter 2, Guild Registration

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Translator: TipToe

Translator (September 26, 2024 Version): Barnnn

 

“Gah–!”

 

A groan escaped Tsutomu’s lips, the sound grotesque as if he was a frog that had been crushed underfoot, when he collided face-first with the hard wooden floor. His ears rang with a jumble of voices, and only after a delayed beat did he notice the coarse, light-brown garments now clinging to his body.

 

He fumbled over himself, anxiously checking for damage. Relief washed over him as he confirmed his hands were still intact. Just as he began inspecting himself for further injuries, a firm grip yanked him upward by the collar.

 

“Hmm, first time respawning, I take it? Can you stand?”

 

“Y-yes.”

 

The man addressing him wore a fine navy-blue uniform, a golden, star-shaped badge glinting against his chest. His stern expression perfectly complemented his soldierly demeanor. With the aid of the Black Staff, which had fallen beside him, Tsutomu managed to haul himself to his feet.

 

At around 170 centimeters, Tsutomu stood at average height, yet the man before him towered close to 190, casting a shadow that brought to mind the unsettling presence of an authority figure.

 

“Do you have your Status Card?”

 

“W-what Status Card?”

 

The man narrowed his eyes, suspicion flickering in them. “…Walked in without signing up, I see…”

 

Instinctively, Tsutomu shrank back, and seeing his reaction, the man sighed, though his voice softened.

 

“Relax. This is a Dungeon created by God Himself. Anyone is free to enter. But you… you don’t seem like one of the orphans. And that staff — where did you get it?”

 

“Uh… well…”

 

The man’s brow furrowed. “Your memory seems foggy. But carrying a staff like that without a Status Card is bound to raise questions. It’s not your original gear either, is it? No one in their right mind would abandon something so valuable in the Grasslands — it must’ve come from a treasure chest. Do you recall its color?”

 

“…Umm, it was… shining. Like it was reflecting sunlight.”

 

His response was vague, the words tumbling out without fully grasping what the man meant. But the Black Staff he held was no ordinary item — forged from rare materials found deep within the Dungeon’s Ancient Castle layers, it was a coveted treasure. At the mention of a sparkling chest, the man’s face lit up with sudden excitement.

 

“Could it be… a gift from God!? Lucky you!”

 

Without warning, the man clapped Tsutomu’s shoulder, the force of it nearly knocking him off balance. Tsutomu offered a weak smile, his discomfort thinly veiled. Only now did he begin to take in his surroundings. Nearby stood a woman with red Dragon scales across her arms and neck — clearly a Dragonewt. Beastkin filled the vicinity, their animal ears and tails twitching with life. The tall man who had been speaking with him was a Cynokin, his sharp dog ears pricked, his tail wagging with enthusiasm.

 

There were, of course, regular humans too. Some loitered around the receptionists’ counters, others sharpening their weapons. A small group of them had gathered nearby, eyes fixed on Tsutomu, their curiosity palpable.

 

“Ah, my apologies. Got a bit ahead of myself there. Let’s have that staff appraised straight away.”

 

“Okay…”

 

Under the weight of curious and suspicious stares, Tsutomu felt a flutter of nerves but obediently followed the Cynokin. As they walked, he absorbed his surroundings with wide-eyed wonder. It all seemed to step straight out of a fantasy novel — Elves with their flowing blonde hair and pointed ears, stout old men barely taller than children, and even people with great wings like birds, stretching from their backs.

 

The building, though, felt strangely out of place in this fantastical world. Its construction was simple, mostly wooden, yet behind him loomed a peculiar black gate that seemed too conspicuous — as if it was a tear in the fabric of reality itself.

 

Tsutomu’s gaze lingered on it, just in time to see it swing open. Five figures, clad in the same rough brown clothing as his own, were ejected unceremoniously, crashing to the floor. Like Tsutomu, they were immediately attended to by uniformed staff, and escorted out of the building.

 

What really caught his attention, however, was something seemingly far less magical: a floating electronic monitor. Like a hologram, it hovered in midair, displaying a group of adventurers battling Goblins.

 

“Here we are. Let’s get inside.”

 

Before Tsutomu could respond, the Cynokin ushered him into a small office. Behind the counter sat a cat-eared woman — an Aelurkin — in a blue uniform, leaning on her elbows, looking thoroughly disinterested. But when her gaze landed on the two of them, her eyes glinted with surprise.

 

“Well, well, look who decided to show up. Never thought you’d ever come here without official business, pupper.”

 

“Right, I try to acknowledge your existence as little as possible… Anyway, appraise this.” He motioned toward the staff in Tsutomu’s hands. “Seems fate has decided to bestow some wealth onto this clueless young man.”

 

“…Is that a staff you have there? Lemme see it, c’mon!”

 

The Aelurkin’s eyes narrowed with interest as her ears perked up. She proceeded to take the staff, her fingers deftly tracing its surface as her magic surged into it. Moments later, her eyes widened in shock, and she let out an involuntary yelp.

 

“This is… the most valuable thing I’ve ever appraised. I think.”

 

“Oh?”

 

“I don’t have the skill level to tell much beyond its spell-shortening ability, but there’s definitely more to it. The magical energy conductivity is off the charts, and the power amplification rate is the highest I’ve ever seen. Just that alone would fetch a crazy price — ten high-quality Large Magic Stones… no, maybe throw in two Large Fire Magic Stones as well! That’s the current going rate — it’ll go even higher as we know more about it! Honestly, it’d be a waste to do a simple appraisal. How about a full, paid appraisal?”

 

“I can’t tell you everything — my skill level’s not high enough for that — but the spell-quickening enchantment alone is impressive. The magical energy conductivity is through the roof, and the power amplification rate… I’ve never seen anything like it. With just what I know so far, this could sell for ten high-quality Large Magic Stones… no, even more than that. Gotta add in two Large Fire Magic Stones! And that’s just a rough guess. A proper appraisal could reveal even more. Honestly, a basic check is a waste. How about a full appraisal? It’s paid, but it’ll be totally worth it!”

 

“He’s unregistered. Do you think he has money?”

 

“Yeah, figured as much. Still, appraising this would boost my skill level… How about this, boy? You can pay me later. Just the equivalent of a medium-quality Medium Magic Stone’s worth of Gold. Deal?”

 

She leaned forward eagerly over the counter. Tsutomu, unfamiliar with the value of Magic Stones, looked to the Cynokin for guidance. The taller man rubbed his chin thoughtfully, then bent slightly to meet Tsutomu’s gaze.

 

“Annoying as she is, her appraisal skill is the best you’ll find in this Guild. Getting a Certificate signed by her is worth far more than the price she’s offering…”

 

The Aelurkin huffed. “You just had to throw in that insult, huh? But he’s right — usually, a full appraisal from me costs one Large Magic Stone. You’re getting a bargain, boy~~!”

 

“…But even if she says you can pay later, she might stipulate that you must settle the bill within half a day. In other words, you could be forced to sell this staff right here, right now, to meet the deadline.”

 

“Hey! That’s uncalled for, you pupper! I’m a Guild employee, just like you! The Guild’s profits come first, you know!”

 

The Cynokin ignored the Aelurkin’s indignant protest, continuing with a tone of serious consideration.

 

“That staff you hold is likely one of the finest there is. If you’re able to wield it, you could easily surpass the fiftieth layer and secure fame and fortune. Even so, are you sure you want to sell it?”

 

“……”

 

Tsutomu fell into a contemplative silence. This didn’t feel like a mere dream. The memory of the Corroded Elder Dragon’s searing breath was still vivid, and the Cynokin’s earnest expression seemed unmistakably real. Tsutomu struggled to convince himself that this was a figment of his imagination.

 

[If this is reality, then I need to make a genuine decision,] he mused. [And if it turns out to be a dream, it’ll just be a funny story to tell my friends later.]

 

He took a deep breath and closed his eyes for a moment, gathering his thoughts. When he opened them, his resolve was clear.

 

“I’ll sell it.”

 

Crafting such a staff was no small achievement, but at present, it was all he possessed. Without armor or tools, it was of little use to him. Money was his immediate need — the practical choice.

 

“…Very well. The final decision is yours; I won’t contest it.”

 

The Cynokin studied Tsutomu with a long, appraising look before rising and gesturing for the Aelurkin to commence the appraisal. The Aelurkin’s eyes sparkled with anticipation as her tail swayed rhythmically. She took the staff and disappeared behind the counter, clearly eager to begin her work.

 

“The appraisal should take a few hours. In the meantime, we’ll need to arrange your Status Card. It’s necessary even if you don’t plan to delve into the Dungeon — just to manage your Gold.”

 

“Oh, right. Yes, please.”

 

Leaving the secluded office, they moved toward a bustling row of counters filled with a variety of people. Tsutomu felt the weight of numerous gazes upon him — some fleeting, others lingering with more intensity. It seemed he was drawing more attention than he had anticipated. Instinctively, his expression grew more guarded, bracing against the scrutiny.

 

When they reached an empty counter at the far end, the Cynokin nimbly vaulted over it, surprising Tsutomu. With a cheerful grin, he spoke.

 

“Allow me to give you a proper welcome. This is the Guild’s reception for God’s Dungeon. We’re pleased to have you. Now, let’s proceed with creating your Status Card. Ready?”

 

“Yes, please.”

 

“Excellent. The fee is 100,000 Gold… but I’ll cover it for now and deduct it from the proceeds when we sell the staff. Does that sound fair?”

 

“Yes, thank you.”

 

“Now, you’ll need to provide a sample of bodily fluid for the card.”

 

The Cynokin slid a small, pristine object — resembling a white cutting board — across the counter, and then crouched down to look for something.

 

The Cynokin slid a small, pristine object resembling a white cutting board across the counter and rummaged below for something.

 

“Bodily fluid…?”

 

“Blood or saliva, usually.”

 

“Ah, right.”

 

From below the counter, the Cynokin produced a slender needle, but instead of using it, Tsutomu opted to gather saliva and let it drip onto the empty Status Card. The card began to emit a gentle, soft glow, soothing to the eyes. When the light finally dimmed, the Cynokin wiped away the saliva with a handkerchief and inspected the card closely.

 

“K-YOU-TA-NI T-SU-TO-MU… Quite an unusual name. Your Job is listed as White Mage, with LUK and MND rated equally… That’s actually impressive for level 1.”

 

He handed the card to Tsutomu, who accepted it with both hands, his gaze fixed intently on the card’s details.

 

======

KYOUTANI TSUTOMU

LV 1

 

STR D-

DEX D-

VIT D-

AGI D-

MND D

LUK D

 

JOB: White Mage

SKILLS: Heal

======

 

[“White Mage… So it’s like I’m on my main account, huh?”]

 

Reflecting on the ‘Invitation from God’ that he had received on his main account, Tsutomu placed the card back on the counter, lost in thought about the implications of his arrival in this world.

 

“From now on, you’ll need to deposit that card at reception before entering the Dungeon. This is crucial — while an unregistered Explorer benefits from Divine Insurance, they’re not bound by Divine Law.”

 

“Uh… Divine Insurance? And what law?”

 

“In the Dungeon, should you fall, Divine Insurance ensures you are resurrected at the Black Gate. You’ve experienced it firsthand, haven’t you? That’s the insurance. Your equipment, however, is absorbed by the Dungeon, save for the most prized item.”

 

The Cynokin gestured toward the spot where Tsutomu had face-planted earlier. The memory of the Elder Dragon’s corrosive breath sent a shiver down Tsutomu’s spine. Finding the reaction understandable, the Cynokin continued.

 

“As for Divine Law, there is but one edict: Thou shalt not kill with malice.”

 

“‘Thou’? …People still use that here?”

 

“Ahem… To put it plainly, you are forbidden from killing other people in the Dungeon. Should you do so, you’ll be barred from ever returning. Being forsaken by God is a fate worse than death, so don’t even entertain the thought.”

 

“U-understood.”

 

The Cynokin’s intensity as he leaned in evoked a pang of dread in Tsutomu, reminiscent of his encounter with the Corroded Elder Dragon. Instinctively, Tsutomu recoiled.

 

“However, if you haven’t registered your Status Card, God won’t recognize you as humanoid. If another humanoid kills you, Divine Law will not apply.”

 

“Which means…”

 

“Unregistered entities are treated like monsters, mechanically. When killed, they dissipate into light particles, leaving no trace. There are some foolish individuals who find sport in hunting unregistered Explorers — therefore, always ensure you register your Status Card and check in at reception. Then you’ll be protected, and if the worst happens, you’ll only respawn at the Black Gate.”

 

“…All right, I understand.”

 

Satisfied with Tsutomu’s comprehension, the Cynokin picked up the Status Card with a nod.

 

“That concludes the essential details. Do you have any further questions?”

 

The Cynokin’s fingers raked through his slightly long hair as he spoke. Tsutomu hesitated before raising his hand.

 

“I do have a few questions, if that’s all right.”

 

“Go ahead.”

 

“First, regarding the Divine Law — does it apply solely to human-on-human killings? What about injuries or intentionally directing monsters to attack others?”

 

“Hmm… You seem to be quite perceptive for your age.”

 

Tsutomu shrugged. The Cynokin folded his arms, pondering.

 

“Harming others without resulting in death does not breach the Divine Law. Similarly, harm without malice, such as friendly fire with spells, is not punishable. If someone dies due to such actions, they will respawn at the Black Gate, and no penalty will be imposed. As for directing monsters…”

 

“Is that considered a violation?”

 

Before the Cynokin could finish, Tsutomu interjected, but the Cynokin shook his head.

 

“That… also does not constitute a breach of the law. However, it is not a common practice unless one is either reckless or desperate enough to disregard the consequences, such as to steal valuable loot.”

 

“Because of… that, right?”

 

Tsutomu pointed to the floating monitors dispersed throughout the building. The Cynokin nodded gravely.

 

“Precisely — those screens display real-time events from within the Dungeon. They primarily show groups striving to reach the deepest layers or engaging in fierce battles with monsters. There are about fifty of them installed throughout this Guild’s premises alone. So, if someone sees you leading monsters towards another party…”

 

“You’ll lose all credibility. No one in their right mind would associate with a party that behaves in such a way. And retaliation would likely follow.”

 

“Naturally. That’s why members of any respectable Clan are well aware never to engage in such behavior. To do so would not only tarnish the Clan’s reputation but also result in immediate expulsion. Clans ensure that every member comprehends and adheres to this principle.”

 

“Understood… And, if it’s not too much trouble, I have two more questions.”

 

“Go on.”

 

Tsutomu leaned in, his voice dropping to a murmur as if to shield his inquiry from unintended ears.

 

“I’m considering hiring a guard for protection. Does the Guild provide such services? Ideally, I’d like to enlist your help.”

 

“…Ah, intriguing. For someone who seemed unfamiliar with even the concept of a Status Card, you’ve grasped this notion swiftly.”

 

“I’ve been observing.”

 

Tsutomu had noted Explorers emerging from the Black Gate alongside Guild staff in dark blue uniforms. Almost invariably, these staff members escorted the Explorers either to the Guild’s exit or to reception.

 

These Explorers, often clad in the same garments Tsutomu had worn upon his respawn, carried minimal gear going in — just a weapon or a piece of armor. The staff’s role in escorting them beyond the Guild’s premises had puzzled him, but now he understood. The Cynokin’s warning about the dangers facing unregistered Explorers had made it clear: this was not a particularly safe environment. The prospect of venturing out in such inadequate attire painted a vivid picture of the potential perils that lay ahead.

 

“Additionally, if it’s not too much to ask, could you provide me with a sort of… tutorial? Basic tips on navigating the Dungeon and essential knowledge about this place? I should mention, I AM an orphan and… well, somewhat unfamiliar with these matters.”

 

“Hmmm… There isn’t a formal system for that, but Guild staff do occasionally take on personal requests. Given your situation, I’m willing to assist.”

 

“Thank you. And, lastly, just one more thing.”

 

“Oh, right, one more question… Go ahead — I’ll do my best to answer.”

 

The Cynokin, puffing out his chest as if to signal his readiness, prompted Tsutomu to voice his final query.

 

“Could you tell me your name?”

 

“…Certainly. I am Garm. I look forward to assisting you, Kyoutani Tsutomu.”

 

“Just Tsutomu is fine.”

 

Garm, momentarily taken aback, relaxed slightly as Tsutomu narrowed his eyes into a warm, appreciative smile.

 

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Silavin: A ton of people are hating on the fact that he was so willing to sell his cane. I don’t think it is an issue though. A legendary item in the end still just an item. He could always get it back from that person.

 

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