Earth Dungeon 101.1

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Chapter 101.1. The Powerful

In contemplating what defines a person of power, Minamoto Kurou, the head of the Minamoto family, one of the three prominent families in the inner city, finds himself wondering. He questions whether such thoughts are trivial or futile, and he can't help but smile wryly.

In a luxurious and traditional building modeled after the Shikanosuke Mansion built during the Meiji era, the party room is adorned with beautiful furnishings lining the walls, and a golden chandelier bathes the room in light.

Various dishes are spread across a long table, expert chefs specially gathered for this day skillfully carving thick slices of roast beef, forming sushi, and presenting new dishes on plates. Music plays at a pleasant volume, and waiters circulate, balancing trays with glasses filled with alcohol.

Amidst elegantly dressed people of all ages, smiles and conversations abound, yet it is clear that those smiles do not reflect true feelings. Their hearts move like butterflies, seeking whatever sweet nectar they can find. No, perhaps butterflies are an exaggeration; moths might be a more suitable expression.

In the end, Minamoto Kurou contemplates whether having wealth, military power, and holding authority leads to a life akin to that of nobility, as he frowns at the fashionable clothes women are wearing this year.

Wearing dresses with large flared skirts, reminiscent of corsets and a return to medieval fashion, he wonders if they intend to go back in time. On the other hand, there are those dressed in intricately designed kimonos next to them.

"This winter's trend is a failure. Who on earth started this trend?"

While complaining about the instigator, the person with a full head of hair strokes it. His wrinkles have diminished, the skin is radiant, and even the once prominent belly has receded. A man whose liver function has improved, high blood pressure has been cured, and blood sugar levels have dropped has recently become fashion-conscious. Consequently, he started paying attention to the attire of those around him.

"I think she's a famous actress. She talked on TV about how life in the Middle Ages was elegant and luxurious, suitable for the upper class."

The wife next to Minamoto Kurou, lightly resting her hand on his arm, informs him. Although he thinks it's unnecessary information, he does agree that the clothing of the Renaissance period nobles immediately gives the impression of wealth and power.

"More importantly, have you found out who tried to steal the Blessed Goblet? And haven't you obtained a new one?"

Walking through the party room, his wife speaks irritably. With fewer wrinkles and a better complexion, her white hair has faded, replaced by dark, thick hair. Thanks to the power gained from taking the goblet from Minamoto Kurou, she has become healthy.

"It's because you flaunt it at tea parties. I don't know who tried to steal it. We found no evidence from the dead thief."

"Well, I became this healthy in just one month! It's natural to show off, right? It helped showcase the power of the Gen family, didn't it?"

His wife exulted in her newfound health. She was ecstatic, bordering on madness. After all, each tea party became an opportunity for her to bring the Blessed Goblet, flaunting it ostentatiously to the madams in attendance.

While it's easy to berate someone as a fool, she wasn't entirely wrong in her approach. Rather than condemning her for trying to expand her influence or implicitly suggesting that joining her faction could bring about good health, it's a challenge.

Despite being referred to as the "Three Great Families", numerous factions are seeking to rival and potentially replace them. Though not explicitly stated, they're newcomers who rose to prominence in the past 20 years. They can't boast of a venerable history, and they lack dignity.

Hence, one could understand his wife's actions, though she might be considered imprudent. Whether she found it troublesome to expand her influence, or blinded by the power of the goblet, or perhaps both, is unclear.

During the recent tea party, thieves attempted to steal the goblet. They were formidable opponents, resulting in the goblet getting damaged during the struggle, and losing its power.

There are no plans to acquire another goblet anytime soon. It is a rare item.

"Did you get it in a low-level dungeon? If you squish a louse, it might pop out of a treasure chest."

"Becoming a dictator doesn't grant enough power to claim that crows are white. Besides, causing harm to soldiers is not an option. It's an opportunity for infiltration."

Minamoto Kurou gives his wife a sharp look, driving the point home. Though she grimaces with frustration, there's nothing to be done. She can't command soldiers to conquer dangerous dungeons for a goblet.

"Let's focus on the winter social scene. I sense an imbalance beginning to emerge."

In this season covered in snow, going outside is a hassle. However, it's a time to build connections and gather information for the coming year.

"Alright... Let's go, my love."

Quickly regaining composure, his wife shifts her expression to a gentle smile. Her adeptness at such transitions is truly remarkable.

Lately, Minamoto Kurou has felt a sense of unease. Something is changing, likely since the appearance of the Core Store.

To unite the Three Great Families into one, he needs to be intimate with other powerful figures, make preparations, and devise schemes.

People who have noticed the Minamoto couple approach them amicably. The first to strike up a conversation are those close enough to be considered confidants.

"This is the head of the Minamoto family. The season of snow has arrived again this year."

"Yes, indeed. Going out becomes troublesome during this time."

"Absolutely! At this age, one becomes susceptible to the cold. The head of the family seems healthy; I'm envious."

With hearty laughs, those around them gather, and it becomes a lively group discussion. The topics range from recent international situations to the state of war, tactics employed, and even profitable ventures.