"Right, so, Theodore, why don't you remind us of the details and circumstances of the previous contract?"

Elder Kendric asked. Theodore sighed, knowing that today wasn't going to go well for him. Still, he had a job to do, so he was quick to reply

"A few days after this dungeon was established, I received a summons to help with establishing a system contract between David and Violet. I immediately responded to the request assuring that I would be around the next morning. After teleporting to the dungeon, I collected David before heading to the dungeon core room, where I found Violet.

The dungeon core had begun to corrupt and she was in a traumatized state on the ground. I immediately went to comfort her while trying to get answers in regards to what had happened. From what I could gather, after I confirmed my arrival for the next morning, David decided to begin swordsmanship training that night. However, in the process, he chose to kill Violet repeatedly. This caused strain on the dungeon core due to her emotional state being compromised beyond what the dungeon could handle.

After a brief violent response on my part, I decided to change the terms of the contract that had initially been requested. David had been the one to suggest a contract first. He was offering to train Violet in exchange for a safe environment for his daughter on the first floor. Violet would be expected to inform him of any new [Traps] added to the first floor and he would show up occasionally to train her in swordsmanship.

I changed the contract to favor Violet more and to offer David a second chance. He was expected to show up every day for swordsmanship training with restrictions on how severe it could be. No limit on duration and Violet would be free to turn him down on a day-to-day basis. David was informed he had to provide tribute up to the value of what could be retrieved from the dungeon, upon request. He was also obligated to do the training for a minimum of a year with renewal being considered based on how things looked after that point in time.

In exchange, Violet was asked to not place [Traps] anywhere on the first floor, except in the hallway directly outside the dungeon core room. The [Traps] would automatically be moved when she unlocked a second floor, but she chose to just forgo any [Traps] on the first floor altogether. This was decided upon to ensure she could keep her end of the bargain more easily. She wouldn't have to give out information on what types of [Traps] she had access to, nor where she decided to place them.

I also agreed to secure David a job with the adventurer's guild once they moved to the area. The guild has already agreed to it and was enthusiastic about the idea of having someone knowledgeable about the dungeon and its master. However, they won't be able to start building until after spring, so he has been on his own, thus far. I considered this part of his punishment for his actions in the hopes that he could reflect and more severe action wouldn't have to be taken. He was warned, though, that I could and would take further action if he wasn't more careful in the future."

Theodore tried to keep things simple, keeping his own feelings and thoughts out of it as much as possible. Elder Kendric nodded, looking at something in the air that the rest couldn't see. More than likely he was looking at a copy of the current system contract, but it was also possible he could already be working on a new one. Kendric hummed in thought before turning to Violet and asking

"You were the one who asked for intervention in the current contract, right?"

Theodore was a bit relieved his senior didn't say anything about his own failures in dealing with the previous contract. At least, he wasn't saying anything about it right now. While his actions were always reported to the council for review, he still felt guilty that things had turned out as poorly as they had. Violet's voice was quiet as she answered and Theodore easily caught her worried glance at David. The man wouldn't be able to hurt her again, that's what they were here for today. Still, it didn't change the uneasy emotions that seemed to pollute the air in the dungeon.

"Well, yes. I just felt like it would be better for both of us if we could cancel the contract sooner rather than later. I can tell David is miserable and hates having to come here. Well, he seems to want to take advantage of my dungeon, so maybe it would be more accurate to say that he doesn't like me.

I don't know if Theodore told you, but I've been trying to be creative so that I can obtain more resources and upgrade my dungeon more quickly. I signed a contract with another group of individuals who have actually been quite good to me. They needed a place to stay during the winter season and, in return, they will pay me rent each night. It was a bigger deal having them around when I only had one floor, but it has actually been quite beneficial to me now that I have two floors. They haven't complained about continuing to pay rent, though, so I've been happy to help them out further.

One of my other hobbies I've been working on is playing the role of a merchant. I sold them some dried firewood and magic bags in return for a large amount of resources. I actually have been selling David canned food each week as well, but he seems to get more passive-aggressive about it instead of appreciating it. It shows in how aggressive he gets during training and with how the quality and amount of tribute continues to decrease with each passing day. I don't want to be used as a way for him to get rich.

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So, when I first mentioned changing the contract, I just asked that he be banned from interacting with me anymore. His daughter and he could continue to visit the dungeon and I would treat them the same as normal adventurers. I don't even care about keeping the [Traps] off the first floor since it works out with my current goals. I just don't think our relationship with one another is very healthy."

Kendric nodded, seeming like he was taking notes. His hands were empty, but he was likely changing the details of the contract as he listened to them talk about the various details. The next thing he asked seemed less related to the contract, but Theodore still had the feeling that Violet's answer actually mattered.

"Our recent investigation actually involved the town leader as well as a local alchemist. There were some others we had to ask questions as well, but I've heard you're familiar with those two. Could you explain to me what made you want to start a charity project involving them?"

Violet looked confused as she answered

"I haven't personally met the town leader. Elivyre is the only true friend I've made, thus far. She often visits just to collect herbs from the dungeon. Since she knows I like flowers and edible herbs and she uses them in her shop, she often tries to bring me ones she hasn't seen in the dungeon as well. We usually just talk about our day and she's the only one, besides Theodore, who is willing to treat me like her equal. She isn't afraid of me and she was the one who showed me that my slimes only attack those who pose a danger to the dungeon.

I asked her to help me with the charity project, but she ended up informing me that the town leader wasn't willing to help. Apparently, he is planning on leaving soon and a new noble is supposed to take over come spring. I was hoping she would return soon so that the locals could get some help before the winter is over. I know they need it, I've overheard a number of others talking about how hard things have been.

As for why I want to help, I guess it's partially for selfish reasons. The local town leader banned the locals from entering the dungeon until it was deemed safe. I used to have a local boy and his father visit the dungeon every day when I first started. I want to earn the trust of the locals so that they'll be willing to give me a chance. There isn't much point in building a floor perfect for aspiring and beginner adventurers as well as locals alike, if no one ever visits. It's kind of depressing and it becomes hard to stay motivated.

However, charity was common in my old world as well. There were food banks, thrift stores, etc. that sold cheap goods or provided free meals to those who needed the help. I used to donate to such organizations whenever I could. Most of my childhood was happy, but my family had to depend on food pantries and thrifting for several years. It only seems right to give back when I can. Since I've got tons of extra mana just going to waste, I figured it would be good to turn it into something that can help others. Besides, food, potions, and firewood are all consumable, so it's unlikely to ruin the economy."

Theodore watched as Elder Kendric smiled warmly at Violet. Finally, a system message appeared in front of all of them. His senior was quick to explain

"It's lovely to see such a pure-hearted Dungeon Master, Violet. I really hope that this world doesn't corrupt you. I really want to respect your wishes as much as possible, but I won't allow your kindness to overshadow your safety.

As you can see from the contract I just made available, new terms have been outlined. From this day onward, David will be banned completely from your dungeon. His daughter can return once she is of age, but I am a bit wary of how that may turn out. Hopefully you have implemented enough safety measures in your dungeon by then to ensure it won't be an issue.

I know someone who works with the adventurer's guild in a different kingdom. It'll be better than slavery, but he will be an indentured servant for a few years. A home will be provided for him and his child and she will also have her schooling paid for. However, he will have to follow every order the guild master gives him and serve his kingdom well.

I can't change all of the terms of the original contract. So, I have to make small changes. His indentured servitude will be used to provide a fund to pay for a replacement, which I've heard Theodore is already working on. You will also still have to abide by the same agreement in regards to no [Traps] on your first floor, but you said you don't mind that, so I assume that's fine.

I have added a few clauses specific to Theodore himself. He will have to take some classes in regards to prevention and safety as well as contract making in order to better serve you. He will also be forced to spend some time exploring your dungeon until he is sufficiently familiar with it. During his visits he will be expected to provide additional companionship for you in order to ensure your mental health improves.

I will also be assigning Beowulf and Theodore to help with the charity you want for the remainder of the winter season. They will help Elivyre since she seems to be safe enough. If you wish to make this a regular thing, Theodore will also be responsible for ensuring something is set up outside of the dungeon that is sustainable.

Lastly, don't worry about the town leader. He will be forced to answer for his crimes. His replacement had already been confirmed by the king of this kingdom, but I interfered some. I know the guy is a decent person and he should be around as soon as spring arrives and sort things out for you. He can't make the locals trust you, but they will no longer be banned from the dungeon. There will be city guards assigned to watch the dungeon as well, but they'll be up to dungeon accord standards."

With that, Violet was asked to finish reviewing the contract. Then David was forced to sign alongside Theodore. Before too long, Violet was once more alone in the dungeon as the three left the dungeon. Beowolf and Theodore had to fetch Alice and then personally escort David to his new home while Kendric simply went home. It all left Violet feeling like she had whiplash with how quickly everything was resolved.