From the explanation so far, Inari had also learned that there were two types of dungeons: fixed dungeons and temporary dungeons.
Temporary dungeons disappear once cleared. They’re typically marked by swirling vortex-like gates that appear suddenly.
Fixed dungeons, on the other hand, remain even after being cleared. After a certain period, everything inside resets and regenerates. These tend to have a physical structure, like a cave or a tower.
Both types share a troublesome trait: if left uncleared for too long, monsters will begin to overflow from them.
That said, compared to the unpredictable nature of temporary dungeons—where nothing is known until one enters—the known layout and structure of fixed dungeons make them easier to deal with, as long as properly prepared Awakeners are involved.
…
“And so, items recovered from fixed dungeons have become local specialties and are now utilized in all sorts of fields.”
As he spoke, Aoyama pulled out a knife. At first glance, it looked plain and unremarkable. But as it rested in its sheath, Inari could sense something strange emanating from it. It was similar to the energy she felt from the weapons carried by those two men earlier—but somehow not quite the same.
“…There’s a peculiar energy about it. Is that one of those ‘arteefakt’ things again?”
“Yes, an artifact. It’s not actually the correct term, but someone started calling them that… and now we even have phrases like ‘synthetic artifact’ in circulation.”
“I know not the details, but very well. So these things can now be made, aye?”
“Well, only if the materials come from a dungeon.”
Oddly enough, though, if you used the material to craft arrows it would retain its effect—but not if you tried to make bullets. Even with bows, switching to a crossbow nullified the effect entirely… there were apparently a lot of strange restrictions.
“Now then, with all that explained, I think you’ll understand why dungeons are often compared to modern-day mines.”
“I wonder how sound that notion truly is…”
“I do understand your concerns. Still, today’s society revolves around them in many ways.”
Weapons and armor tailored to Awakeners, goods made with new materials, even new types of medicine. The economic impact of dungeon-clearing was enormous, and refusing to deal with them simply wasn’t an option. The consequences of that choice were far too well-known.
“Well then, if the world doth revolve that way, I suppose I must adapt mine self accordingly.”
“I appreciate your understanding. Now then, Miss Inari—as someone with an Awakener status, we’d like to formally register you here at the Japan Branch. Would that be acceptable?”
“…Aye, but let me ask this: what if I were to refuse?”
“Nothing would happen. However, unregistered individuals are restricted from doing many things. Also, the identification card issued to registered Awakeners serves as a globally recognized form of ID. I’m sure you’d find it convenient.”
Fair enough. Inari didn’t just lack an ID—she didn’t even have a family registry. If she could get one through this, there was really no reason to say no.
“By the way, Miss Inari… forgive me if I’m overstepping, but I can’t help but sense there’s… a lot of backstory behind you. May I ask about it?”
“Backstory, is it? Hmm… I’m what ye’d call a naturally manifested Kunitsukami, born of the land and tied to this shrine. The name ‘Inari’ and that ‘status’ thing—well, they called me that, but I’ve no connection to Uka no Mitama no Ookami, if that’s what ye’re thinking.”
“I… see. A god, then.”
“Thou dost not believe me, eh? Well, even that status screen calleth me a Fox Shrine Maiden, did it not?”
In that sense, she was treated more like a youkai. Still, Inari figured it didn’t really matter—whether it was reiryoku or youki, it was all the same depending on how you used it.
Even curses can become gods in Japan’s traditions, after all.
Anyway—when she was brought to the next room for her ability assessment, the staff inside were already in a state of hushed commotion.
To Inari, all she’d done was step inside a plain square room. But over in the corner, the technicians in charge of measuring her stats were practically in a frenzy.
“No matter how many times we scan her, the results are the same. Her magic-related stats are insanely high. At Level 1, no less… this isn’t just some promising recruit level!”
“Forget that, she’s got a summoning skill and a level 8 skill? Divine Power, seriously…?”
“Section Chief, if this info leaks out, we’re in trouble.”
“…Ye do realize I can hear every word ye’re saying, do ye not?”
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Term Notes:
Reiryoku (霊力) or spiritual power is the power derived from one's spiritual or divine nature. This term is often used to describe priests, shrine maidens, gods, or spirits using their holy or sacred energy—especially in healing, purification, or divine powers.
Youki (妖気) or demonic/mysterious energy is the supernatural energy emitted by youkai or other non-human entities. It’s often described as strange, eerie, or threatening.
Uka no Mitama no Ōkami (宇迦之御魂大神) is a Shinto deity closely associated with food, agriculture, and grain, especially rice, which has been central to Japanese life and spirituality for centuries.