Our exploration of the dungeon went considerably better than last time.
I had learned [Shield Technique].
And with Philia acquiring foundational knowledge of magic, the party's overall strength had improved.
"To see this much progress in just a single day... I really think our party is remarkable."
"Well, I think that's thanks to everyone pulling together. I only learned [Shield Technique] because Alan was there, and Philia only learned magic theory—even if she dragged her feet a bit—because Leticia-san was there to teach her."
"That's so true. Thank you so much for teaching me properly, Leticia-san!"
When Philia said that, Leticia-san smiled somewhat bashfully.
We continued our exploration after that, and about two hours passed.
Currently, we were mainly operating on the 8th floor.
Even though we hadn't visited for a day, the monster count hadn't increased by much, though they tended to cluster toward the edges of the floor.
We sought out those clusters as we explored.
"Come to think of it, do adventurers show each other their status within a party?"
When we took a break, Alan brought up the question.
"There are some parties that do, but for the most part, it seems people just confirm things verbally or observe each other in action while working together. I'd heard that before, which is why I didn't ask to see your status and officially welcomed you based on your actual abilities."
"I hear parties only share them after working together for months, once they decide they'll be together for the long haul. Even if you're close, a person's status is critical personal information, so deciding whether to show it has to be considered carefully."
"Just as Philia says. That's why I make sure not to ask anyone to show their status either. Well, I can tell a fair amount about a person's capabilities just by watching, but there are still things you can't know, so it'd be a big help if you spoke up whenever something comes up."
With our break over, we resumed our exploration.
Then, around the time the evening bell chimed, we emerged from the dungeon and made the walk back to the royal capital.
On the way, I brought up an idea that had crossed my mind.
"I have a proposal for everyone: I'm thinking of doing an overnight stay in the dungeon. If you're all on board, I'd like to do it sometime soon. What do you think?"
"I'm in."
"I think I'm in favor too. Gaining the experience is important, after all."
"Of course, I think it sounds fine as well. I've already received permission from Father and the others, so anytime works for me."
Everyone voiced their approval.
"But staying overnight means we'll need gear, right? What are we going to do about that?"
"Yesterday, after finishing my training at the House of Strict, I checked out the commercial district, and the prices weren't that steep. If we wanted absolute comfort, it'd cost a lot, but for just the bare essentials, I think our party savings can cover it."
"Then shouldn't that be fine? Besides, as long as we have the minimum necessities, it'll broaden the scope of what we can take on."
"That's true. Since it's camping gear, we can use it outside even when we're not in a dungeon."
With that settled, we decided to purchase the equipment using the party savings.
I let them know that because we'd spend time procuring the gear tomorrow, our time in the dungeon would be cut a little short.
"Staying overnight in the dungeon... With how capable you all are now, Erik-kun, I'm sure you'll be fine, but make sure you properly secure a safe spot, alright?"
Back in the royal capital, we headed straight for the Adventurer's Guild.
We walked up to Reina-san's counter, turned in our harvested materials, and mentioned our plan to camp out in the dungeon.
Hearing that, Reina-san pondered for a few seconds before offering her advice.
"Of course, we understand. The reason we've been drafting a map while clearing down to the 10th floor these past few days was specifically to pinpoint where monster encounters are low."
"...So you planned ahead. That's very commendable."
"The 'Adventurer's Guide' I read before mentioned that information is a weapon, and that maps are indispensable in dungeons and caves. So I've been charting things out ever since we began diving into the dungeon."
When I said that, Reina-san smiled warmly.
After that, our payout for the day's expedition was finalized.
◇
Skeletons: 40
Goblins: 60
Slimes: 80
◇
The monster materials brought in a total of 80 copper coins.
On top of that, we managed to defeat several magic stone bearers today, securing 15 magic stones.
Adding everything together, today's reward amounted to 2 silver coins and 30 copper coins.
After collecting our earnings, we stepped away from the counter and exited the Adventurer's Guild.
"We made a pretty decent haul today."
"The skeleton count didn't change much, but that's thanks to all the leftover goblins and slimes. Guess they aren't very popular with the other adventurers diving in."
Chatting as we walked, we divided the payout.
Each of us took 46 copper coins, and the rest went into our party fund.
With the distribution done, we went our separate ways, and I started heading toward my inn.
"..."
After walking for a short while, I felt eyes on me from behind.
At the same instant, a wave of revulsion crept over me.
Instinct told me that looking back was a bad idea, so I activated [Physical Enhancement].
Going straight back carried the risk of giving away where I was staying.
Taking a deliberate detour, I made my way back to the inn.