The sky was pitch black. Under the artificial sky where not even a stream of light shone through, the dungeon, having swallowed all challengers, opened its mouth as if to seek more prey. The gaping entrance mocked us and I felt like I could hear the screams of the dead and smell the metallic scent of blood.

[Son, are you ready?]

The man looked back at me as he held a spear that was over nine feet long. He was a veteran Hero, a Hero of the human race. It wasn’t just him. All of those gathered around the dungeon were the exact same.

[Yes.]

As I answered him lightly, I checked my equipment before entering the dungeon. I had armor made from five-colored metal, a strange gauntlet emanating an otherworldly aura, and plated boots that wouldn’t melt even in lava. Last but not least, I held a spear of pure white that rejected all darkness. 

Finally, it was time.

[Sharana, Ruyue, Peika, Dortu.]

[I’m ready!]

[What? Let’s just go in already. I’m ready to rampage.]

[Let’s get this boring dungeon over with! Then we can go play.]

[I’m Dortu. I will follow Master’s command.]

With them by my side, I would not be afraid no matter who I was up against. I gave the girls a big smile, and they also smiled back. I could do this. I was filled with confidence.

I raised the pure white spear in my hand and pointed...