Thermae Dwarf

* Slimeko
* Sebas Tian
* Solution Epsilon
* Tsuibayaya
* Momonga
* Albedo
* Demiurge
* Lupusregina Beta
* Zenberu Gugu

Dwarf Kingdom* Bigosa
* Master of Caves and Mines
* Cabinet Secretary
* Director of Food Production
* Commander-in-Chief
* Brewmaster
* High Priest of Earth
* Merchant's Guildmaster

## Outcome

New Bathhouses are built in E-Rantel and Feo Berkana

**Thermae Dwarf**  (テルマエ・ドワーフ) is a game event in Mass for the Dead that was released on November 1, 2023 to November 15, 2023.

## Background

In E-Rantel, which has overcome the shock of the disaster and is proceeding with reconstruction.
Healing the mind and body of the people of the city is an urgent issue.
People set out to the Azerlisia Mountains, seeking clues to a solution at a "bathhouse" said to be located in the country of mountain dwarfs.——-

## Incident

Sebas is standing guard the hallway of the mayor's mansion whilst the protagonist works in his office. The undercover miner, notes that the homunculus is getting acclimated back into his duties and seems happy. Though Sebas thinks to himself that things are not going to be like they were before. Sebas who is now acting as an escort to the protagonist finds the measure unnecessary and believes that his comrade is taking things too seriously.

Soi approaches in the hallway, commenting that Sebas and the protagonist had returned from their tour of the city. Their tour was composed of visiting the Adventurer's Guild, Pharmacist's Guild, and even the Temple with members of the Sunlight Scripture acting as intermediaries. The news of the duo visiting those three places comes as a surprise to Soi. Since she can recall that she and the protagonist already had a lot of interaction, yesterday and the day before.

Today's consultation was about expanding the functionality of the treatment facility and the protagonist was following up on conversations from earlier. Considering the current situation in this city, this is a situation that needs to be dealt with urgently. From what Seba knows, the treatment activities are underway to address the increasing number of injured people due to the series of disasters. While the number of injured people is increasing, the facilities to accommodate them are becoming full.

Soi argues that even if they were to increase the number of detention facilities, they would need to secure space for it and it’s not something that can be done overnight. Sebas recalls correctly, that their comrade  spoke to Clementine about wanting to do his best to help her. Still there is an absolute lack of supplies and treatment options. That was the only topic they talked about. Repairs to buildings seem to be progressing more than smoothly, but when it comes to humans, it's not as simple as fixing them and being done with them. Though Sebas finds the situation regrettable for the humans, Soi cannot understand his empathy towards them. So her concern goes to the protagonist who has been running around trying to do something. Last time Soi had visited the Temple with the protagonist, he had been negotiating with the priests there about whether or not they could request treatment using high-level magic without cost.

The protagonist and Surako soon emerge from the room intent to head out to another location. He and his friends then go to Tsuibayaya's workshop to pick up their weapons. The dwarf's work is greatly appreciative by the protagonist. Though Tsuibayaya say's its nothing as his service is covered by development costs for the swimsuits and material from the Sorcerer Kingdom which he praises in being able to not just supply funds but also resource for his work.

The dwarf notices the protagonist's tired looked and questions what is wrong since he expected his patron to be happy since the city is being rebuilt on schedule. Especially after the "cleansing" the other time produced the right motivating effect. Tsuibayaya asks about Clementine, which is a bit unusual for the swimsuit fanatic to be interested, but the homunculus informs his friend that the saint is doing her best to help the city, even though the city's repairs are progressing, the same cannot be said that the injured people are being adequately treated. This includes people who have non life-threatening illnesses, besides suffering from the body but the mind.

Though such traumatic injuries can't be helped by going to the temple and paying healing magic. And while details may depend on negotiation, it would be bad to incur more debt than necessary. Hence why the protagonist reached out to the Pharmacist's Guild to research on treatments using medicinal herbs. However the problem is not just the trauma.

Tsuibayaya thinks aloud about if he were feeling unwell he would just take a bath, drink some alcohol, and sleep to recover quickly. When his comment causes the protagonist to be perplexed, the dwarf elaborates that there is a big bathhouse in the Dwarf Kingdom where he used to live. After work, going there for a bath and alcohol was a special time that helped him refresh.

Hearing the dwarf talk about bathhouses makes the protagonist realize that "hot spring therapy: is the answer to helping the people recover from the shock of life-threatening situations or trauma from losing loved ones. This option certainly seems to be effective as a means of rest. It is said that it not only heals injuries and illnesses, but can also be expected to have a psychological healing effect according to the books in Ashurbanipal.

This begs the question on whether the dwarves have similar customs. While there is a spa resort in Nazarick, for the common people of the kingdom, the custom of bathing seemed to be a luxury for royalty and nobility. Seizing this moment the homunculus intently stares as Tsuibayaya and has speak fully on his story about dwarven bathhouses.

Later after the protagonist heard the story at Tsuibayaya's workshop, he sent a message to Momonga in Nazarick. The message about the dwarves having bathing custom is a bit of a surprise to the Overlord. The protagonist on the other end of the magical connection admits that this is only what he heard from the dwarf craftsman’s so it is not yet confirmed.

Momonga regards the protagonist to be right in gathering outside information is also a priority, so he thinks his report is very good. So he need it worry about authenticity which they can check later. The message ends after Momonga thanks his subordinate. Shortly after that, Momonga summoned Albedo and Demiurge and told them the story.

The news comes as interesting to Demiurge, admitting that even though the dwarves have only started trading with them, there is still much about their culture or customs they do fully understand. Albedo can at least confirm from reports that she received that the dwarves working at the mining sites do take baths to cleanse themselves after work. But does agrees that this information is useful as it could be used to inspire a relatively low-cost means of healing the body and mind of humans. While Momonga finds that the dwarf Tsuibayaya can be a valuable source of information, it should still be noted that the dwarf left his country to research swimsuits, taking valuable minerals and goods with him. And while he is a skilled weapon craftsman, it a bit hard to just take his story at face value.

Plus from what he heard about the dwarven bathhouse, it sounds more or less like a hot spring in the mountains. Thinking about this, this causes the undead to remember the water-related inventions that were made earlier. Albedo hearing her master's musing on the inventions reports that Nazarick is currently checking to see if they can develop an effective market for the products, but it seems that humans do not have the habit of bathing in bathtubs so they are responding cautiously.

It's a pity to Momonga, as if the people of this world also have a custom of bathing, it would leading gaining a market as a trade item. Demiurge then inquires if his liege intends to use the dwarves to acquire a new market? Momonga confirms that to be right and seems to be worth investigating whether they to have a habit of bathing in hot springs. If there is indeed a medicinal bath, they may also be able to use it. That being said Momonga recalls that a lizardman had went to the Dwarf Kingdom. Demiurge confirms that it was Zenberu Gugu. And states that Yuri Alpha and Entoma Vasilissa Zeta will being heading to the lizardmen village to do an audit.

Momonga thinking it would be effective to ask directly then sends a [Message] to Yuri, connecting to the Pleiades maid to query Zenberu. At the village, Zenberu is being interviewed by the two maids, and he confirms that the dwarves do bath, and gives a vague description of their bathing methods, which includes creating heat by pouring hot water on a certain substance.

Once their questioning is done, Entoma contacts Momonga, to give him their results. From them Momonga confirms that the dwarves do have a custom of bathing. There are public bathhouses in each city, and the dwarves who live there are said to frequent them. It seems that not pn;y the injured and sick but also miners after work go there during holidays. There's even a testament from Zenberu which is enough for Albedo to be valid.

Momonga is intrigued that the dwarves working for a few days and then taking a few days off, look forward to bathing at the end of a day's work. It makes sense to him, given their form of manual labor. Demiurge finds it a shame, as while it seems certain that the dwarves have a habit of taking baths, one question is left on where they get the hot water for bathing? Based on the current story, he wonders if they draw it themselves or have a "hot spring" or special mineral spring that exists under the conditions of the mine. It is still not clear whether it was just boiling underground water or not.

Albedo and Momonga admits that there are still things that need to be cleared up. Even if one were to use household magic it would be too much of a burden to use it for bathing. So it's possible that the bath's hot water may be naturally occurring hot spring or groundwater. Regardless if it's just boiling water, it can still be a means to help heal injuries and illnesses and recover fatigue if only to give people some peace of mind.

Despite the uncertainties Momonga wants to offer this, "special hot spring" idea to the people of E-Rantel to ease their suffering. Though it would require a sample of the water from the dwarven bathhouses for study. Seeing that he needs to assemble a team to head an expedition to the dwarf nation. Momonga considers who he has free to participate. If it were not for the current situation, Albedo would recommend Sebas. And depending on the situation, they would need to contact the Frost Dragon in command of the nation. However sending the butler is out of the question by Demiurge since he is watching the protagonist, who is being targeted by Enhela Read Gahi and busying running the daily operations of the city and needs an escort.

Momonga then decides to send the protagonist on the mission for the time being. He sees it as a form of break from E-Rantel, so that he could give the homunculus a chance to rest. It’s Momonga’s hope that the protagonist will take the opportunity to try some hot spring treatment while doing his research, and might be able to distract himself a little. While Sebas is to be included on the expedition, Momonga still wants others to take the stage on this mission to take some of the burden.

The Overlord asks about the Frost Dragon.  Demiurge answers that according to reports, it appears to still be in that location. However, it seems like they no longer have the same arrogance the dwarves. Momonga asks for the two to leave him so he can summarize his thought for the upcoming expedition. After confirming that no one was around, Momonga immediately activated the [Message].

After finishing his initial [Message] he makes a second one to direct Albedo to call the Pleiades.  Less than a few hours later, Momonga tells the assembled Pleiades about the mission.

Yuri understands that their liege wants them to investigate the bathhouse in the dwarf country. Momonga states that he has already decided to ask Sebas, the Slimeko, to go with the protagonist.

However, he don't know what's going on. As expected, it would be dangerous to send the three of them alone to investigate. That's why he’s planning to choose someone else to accompany them on the investigation. Furthermore, Momonga is thinking of hiring a suitable person from among the Pleiades, though cannot decide.

Before Momonga can make a decision, and interruption unexpectedly comes from Solution who steps forward and volunteers for the mission. This is a bit of a shock, to everyone. Albedo is peeved that the maid would dare interrupt their master, despite Momonga willing to forgive. This does not satisfy Albedo as such behavior cannot be overlooked.

Momonga sees that he still was able to find someone suitable among the maids. In any event there is no issue. Still the fact Solution willingly volunteered is a bit shocking. Momonga then asks Solution why the sudden interest in the mission?

The maid’s reason turns out stems from the events of  Miyoshi Cup. Since then Solution has been learning more about baths and bathing. Therefore, she believes that her knowledge will be useful for this mission. And from what Momonga deduces, she can use this mission as an opportunity to obtain new information about baths and bathing and get a little closer to Miyoshi occupation.

Last time she wasn’t able to win the Miyoshi Cup, making Momonga wonder if the slime is pinning for revenge for that time? Since he doesn’t understand the circumstances, Momonga decides to not say anything and think of this as proof of the NPC's growth.

No one objects to Solution being puni sly part of the expedition. With the protagonist being part of the team, and still being targeted by Enhela, Momonga assigns Lupusregina to shadow the expedition to watch over the party, especially the protagonist. After completing the selection and disbanding everyone, Momonga sends a [Message] to the protagonist, ordering him to carry out the mission.

The protagonist, and his friends, having received their orders stop by the Great Forest of Tob on their journey to the Azerlisia Mountains. Lupusregina attired in her worker outfit is thanked by the protagonist for accompanying them. The undercover worker pays it no mind reminding them that she is "Regi" for now. They are joined by Hamsuke who came to have a chat with them. The hamster learning of their investigation to the mountains, finds the details curious as she herself doesn't mind bathing but never taken a bath in hot water. She wonders if such a bath is really that amazing, thinking perhaps some magic is involved? The protagonist is not sure about that but explains that aside from magical effects, hot baths help creatures recover from wounds and illnesses by warming their bodies. It's not the same thing as bathing, trying to put it in a frame of reference that the hamster can understand. He had assumed that Hamsuke would instinctively know, a place in the mountains where hot water gushes out, where wild animals gather to bath, etc.

Kyuko seems to be familiar with the homunculus is talking about, as there was a place deep in the mountains near her former village where hot water gushed out. From what she heard it was effective against all kinds of illnesses and wounds and where wild animals from the mountains would gather. Slimeko also mentions that Nazarick has something similar....a bathhouse. This interests Hamsuke making her jealous as she would like to go and visit there one day.

Upon hearing the hamster say jealous, the protagonist cannot help but feel jealous himself, as Hamsuke still has the option of visiting Nazarick unlike him. He though casts the negative thoughts aside as they have no place for now. Sebas having approached the protagonist comes with a suggestion, in that before heading to the Dwarf Kingdom, they should stop by the lizardmen village.

The suggestion is accepted, and the group departed from forest and headed to the village. On the way they are harassed by Chaos Beasts which the party deals with. At the village, they locate Zenberu to explain the situation to learn about the bath healing customs of the mountain dwarves. Sebas explains that the Sorcerer King feels that the baths of the dwarves could be used to treat the injured and asks that the lizardman be part of the expedition and serve as a guide. This catches Zenberu by surprise, though Slimeko points out he is the natural choice, given he knows the route to the Dwarf Kingdom.

Not only that Sebas adds that if the dwarves do truly have hot springs and special medicines, the Sorcerer Kingdom may consider asking the dwarves to teach them their materials and manufacturing methods. If that happens, there will probably be negotiations, so having a friendly face like Zenberu, who already has a close relationship with the dwarves would be good. Their points are valid and Zenberu agrees to be their guide to the dwarven nation, plus it would also give the lizardman monk a chance to hone his fighting skills. Sebas then offers a form of advance payment to the lizardman, a mock duel before they head out which Zenberu eagerly greets with his fists.

After the exchange of fists, at the village, the expedition party travel to the Azerlisia Mountains with Zenberu taking the lead. The entrance to the Dwarf Kingdom is soon in sight. Before heading in, Sebas has everyone take a break. While sitting out in the chilly wind, Regi is curious to Soi’s intentions on the expedition as this is the first time she has heard heard that her is learning about bathing techniques. Soi confirms that her goal has not been told to anyone. Although Regi guesses that she is trying to reach Miyoshi’s level as a bathing attendant. Soi claims that her motivations are not based on jealousy. However, she just thought it wasn't a good idea to do nothing just because they were not enemies. To Sebas the goal in itself is not a bad thing, that is to aim higher than you are now so it can be regarded as good.

Above all, he has always said that “growth” is the most important thing and  believes that by knowing and admitting your own shortcomings, one can take a step toward growth. Such think in his own opinion is not limited to those who belong to Nazarick. However he wonders about the Frost Dragon, as he never actually met someone like those who believe that they strong and has no hesitation.

The protagonist thinking to himself, considers Zenberu's story validity about dwarves and their bathing customs. There is no doubt that dwarves have a bathing habit and depending on the results of the investigation, Momonga believes that negotiations with the dwarves may occur. Hen e why Sebas, him, and Solution were chosen.

If this mission is successful, the treatment efforts for the people of E-Rantel will be greatly advanced. Above all, Nazarick will also benefit greatly. His ruminating is interrupted by Sebas who is worried for him. Ever since they left, it seems like the protagonist has been thinking a lot whenever he has time. The undercover butler offers to listen so that the homunculus can get whatever is bothering him off his chest.

The protagonist maintains he was just thinking about the dwarven bathing customers and the benefits to Nazarick and the city residents. The latter he finds it to be most vital for, as there may be many ways to deal with trauma, but mental issues cannot be resolved without sufficient rest and time.

Sebas agrees to that, but remarks that he thinks it's the same for everyone, not just the people in the city. This momentarily stuns the protagonist, and Sebas tells him that he understands how he feels, but to keep in mind there's no need to rush.

Shortly after resting, the group departed again and arrived at Feo Jera, the city of the dwarves. There the traveling party are amazed at the bustling dwarves laboring throughout the city. Even hearing about the dwarves making a living from blacksmithing and mining, their operations in the city is more than imagined by some members in the party like Sebas. Slimeko comments that the city looks differently as before when they first visited it was in disrepair. The liveliness of the city is attributed to the dwarves feeling a sense of safety.

Zenberu seeing the sight comments that it reminds him of his dwarven city of Feo Raidho. He then wonders if their dwarven contact is still living in the city. The group then head to their dwarven associate's residence, and soon are reunited with their friend Bigosa. The dwarf is happy to see his traveling friends once again. Once an exchange of greetings is done, Bigosa informs the group that thanks to the Sorcerer Kingdom, the city is now secure and the rebuilding of the city is progressing smoothly. Residents are also slowing returning back to Feo Raidho with mining operations restarting there.

From his intuition, the dwarf guesses that the protagonist and his party did no come by for just a visit and have a purpose to complete. He is proven correct when the protagonist tells the dwarf about the mission the Sorcerer Kingdom charged him with. Bigosa then began introducing his dwarven associates to the protagonist, explaining his mission and hoping they could provide some input. Among the associates are a dwarf blacksmith and miner. They voice their surprise at the concept hot spring therapy as it was just a past time to the dwarves to relax. Though are astonished that humans are not aware of it practical benefits nor share bathing customs of soaking in a bath to relax while drinking good spirits. They do admit that such a method is effective in treating fatigue of the body.

When Soi asks if there is any medicinal herbs added to the water, the dwarves cannot say. This prompts Sebas to ask maybe that the hot spring contains special ingredients such as mineral water. The dwarves are perplexed that the travelers from the Sorcerer Kingdom came to their city just to learn how the dwarves bath. Sebas and Soi though highlight that the bathing methods were being looked into to possibly treat the injured population of E-Rantel after a disaster.

The dwarves understanding now that humans lack a habit of bathing and while not sure if seeing the baths will help, decide to show the group anyway. Since the group is from the Sorcerer Kingdom, they will inform the Regency Council. Bigosa then offers to take the group to see the baths at the mines since the miners will be working.

With the help of Bigosa and his friends the group was able to see the bathhouse the next day. For the bathhouse, Soi is unsure what to think as she did not have any expectations. Her interest lies in the color of the hot water which she suspects is mixed with iron as it smells metallic. To her friends, she confirms that the water is no poisonous, and admits that the style of the bathhouse is different from any other bathhouse that she knows of. As for the hot water she thinks that its similar to a carbonated bath, like in Spa Resort Nazarick as it contains carbonic acid in a small amount.

Sebas inquires to Bigosa on where the water comes from in the bath. Bigosa is unsure of the details, but the water is heated by the heat of the giant crucibles in the forges of the city, adding that despite it being lukewarm it's a nice touch after work. On whether there are other bathhouse in the Dwarf Kingdom, Bigosa states that Feo Raidho should have one up and running given that the resident have returned there. Though he is not sure if the bathhouse is the same as Feo Jera.

Bigosa brings up that there is one place that has the best bathhouse in the country and could meet the group's expectations. The problem is that the bathhouse is located in Feo Berkana where the Frost Dragon rules.

While Bigosa confirms that he dragon has become more docile thanks to the delegation of the Sorcerer Kingdom, going to the bathhouse is still difficult since the Frost Dragon lives there. And while it's not currently causing any trouble the dwarves do not want to antagonize it since they have weak fighting capabilities.

Upon returning to city proper to rest, Sebas spoke with other dwarves and it seems that there is some truth to Bigosa's words. He heard from many people that the bathhouse at Feo Berkana are the best. This is unfortunate to Slimeko as the dwarves are too afraid to go there due to the Frost Dragon. The group then decides to head to the old dwarven capital to check the bathhouse for themselves. Bigosa is glad as with the members of the Sorcerer Kingdom then they will have nothing to fear from the dragon. He wants to go with and brings along a tunnel doctor who he informed of the expedition and later requested he join them.

The others are not familiar with the occupation of a tunnel doctor, which the new dwarf explains that he is a magic caster who job is to strength the mine shafts with magic and investigate underground veins. This brings to the protagonist's mind that he noticed the lack of wood used to reinforce the mine shafts and the they were sturdy for traveling through. The tunnel doctors confirms that is due to the magic of him and his peers. Besides investigating underground mineral veins, the tunnel doctors also regularly check to see if there are any water veins or gas pools forming around the mine shaft.

The mining sites are fraught with danger so the tunnel doctor services are always needed. Bigosa explains that since they are heading to Feo Berkana, which also has a tunnel that hasn't been used for a while. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the condition of the ground near the bathhouse. Normally during such investigations, some dwarven warriors would be assigned to protect a tunnel doctor, but since it the group from the Sorcerer Kingdom they should be more than enough to deal with any dangers.

The group then arrives at Feo Berkana and head to the Frost Dragon's lair in the palace. However they strangely find it empty. Sebas finds it a pity as he wanted to inform their presence to the dragon, but wonders if the creature is by the bathhouse. According to Bigosa there is an abandoned mine shaft nearby that they could take to reach the bathhouse. The tunnel doctor adds that it was a major mine shaft so it is very wide and has been reinforced by magic by his own hands so it shouldn't collapse. If that is the case, then Sebas believes that the Frost Dragon could use the path as well.

Sebas has the dwarves guide them to the mine shaft to the bathhouse. The tunnel doctor checking the path notes that there isn't any noticeable collapse. Slimeko is left impressed on the strength of the tunnel doctor's magic in keeping a mine shaft stable enough to allow even a dragon to cross through it undamaged. The magic caster appreciates the compliment though finds it conflicting when she mentions that it be a safe path for a Frost Dragon.

They soon come up to where the bathhouse are at the end of the mine shaft. Instead before them is only rubble. The dwarves are distress at the destruction. Soi examining the ground states that there is no sign of instability so the cause was not natural. However the protagonist has spotted the likely culprit who is still in the area. It turns out to be the Frost Dragon who is annoyed that the emissaries of the Sorcerer Kingdom have returned and demands to know why they are bringing dwarves to its domain and back. The dragon seems to not understand the purpose of the bathhouse, and when questioned by Sebas on its destruction, nonchalantly calls it a cave to the anger of the dwarves.

Their anger is understandable as the bathhouse was a famed location to them. The protagonist explains to the dragon that the situation is pitiful as the Sorcerer Kingdom came to do an investigation but never took into consideration that an incident like this could happen. The Frost Dragon is amazed that the group is an investigation team sent to just study some cave, laughing at them for having so much free time. Sebas demands to know why the dragon destroyed the bathhouse as its destruction could not be beneficial to it.

The dragon admits that its destruction was not to its benefit, and it seems neither to the dwarves or Sorcerer Kingdom delegation. It still cannot believe the Sorcerer Kingdom is back, and complains that it was getting eyesore at seeing the dwarves return to Feo Berkana so it wandered around to relieve some of its depression. In truth the dragon was trying to avoid the water in the bathhouse which is refers to as a puddle but ended up breaking it by accident but keeps this information to himself.

The butler of Nazarick points out that the Frost Dragon was obligated to protect the dwarves which should apply to their city and facilities. Given the damage this is something that the Sorcerer Kingdom cannot overlook. The threat annoys the dragon, but Soi and the protagonist take to pitying the creature of not being aware of Sebas's strength. The insult from the Frost Dragon gives the butler the warranted reason to have him "discipline" it.

The dragon is then pounded multiple times by Sebas, before being tossed to the ground. This leaves the dragon dazed and confused on what had just happened. The other members of the Sorcerer Kingdom delegation can only look on unimpressed as it was the same result when the Frost Dragon fought Cocytus, musing that the dragon is so weak that it's not a big deal.

The Frost Dragon at first refuses to admit defeat, but when Sebas unleashes his bloodlust, the aura of power overwhelms the dragon, making it realize that the old man is not human. Immediately the dragon kneels in submission. Sternly Sebas resumes questioning the Frost Dragon on why it destroyed the bathhouse. At it says that it had already said so, but when the old man encourages him to be honest, the dragon overwhelmed by Sebas's strength and had no other choice and reluctantly confessed that it had accidentally destroyed the dwarven bathhouse.

The news though isn't too pleasing to Bigosa or the tunnel doctor. Even with members like the protagonist and Slimeko feeling bad for the dwarves. Soi even thinks that they should report this incident to Momonga to enact a proper punishment against the dragon. Seba agrees that it should be reported, but won't go so far as to request punishment as the dragon understands that this time it was at fault. His decision is supported by the protagonist as the dragon did not intentionally mean to damage the property of the dwarves, though there should be no tolerance of any mistakes caused by such inconsiderate behavior in the future.

Then, the protagonist and the others once again made the Frost Dragon promise to never interfere with the dwarves again. After that the group head back through the tunnel to Feo Jera. All in all, Soi was happy to be able to collect the bath water from the remains of a bathhouse for study. From the sample she concludes there's nothing particularly unusual about the quality of the springs or the surrounding ores. The reason why the water is black is probably because something is mixed in with it, but it doesn't seem like it's anything special. Bigosa is still fuming at the loss of the bathhouse that was the pride of the dwarves. On the bright side, the tunnel doctor, thinks it was a good thing that the tunnel was safe, but it was unfortunate there was a blind spot on the bathhouse for it to be destroyed like that.

When the group returned to Feo Jera, they reported the situation to a member of the Regency Council and the dwarves who were associated with Bigosa. The dwarves in assembly take the news with depression as many were looking forward to using the bathhouse in the old capital. Even the Master of Caves and Mines, laments on what he will tell the rest of the councilors of this travesty.

Sebas observing the looks of disappointment on the dwarves is sympathetic to their pain and wonders if something could be done to correct this. After finishing their report, the group gathered in their rented room in the dwarven city and thought about what to do next. Everyone can see that the dwarves have taken the news hard. Zenberu admits that it was bad to watch, which Soi agrees stating that it would hard to wake up and go home without doing anything.

Coming from her is a cause for surprise by the lizardman, as he did not expect her to care for the dwarves at all. In reality, Soi doesn't care that the bathhouse was destroyed and add the concern for the lizardmen's sentimentalities. Still the protagonist does not want to leave just yet. Sebas notes that the dwarves' desire for bathing is stronger than they thought. And suggest that this situation has a lot of appeal to the inventions of Sorcerer Kingdom. Such an idea however might be worth asking someone above.

At the Round Table Room, Momonga receives a [Message] from Sebas via Soi informing him of the situation with the Frost Dragon destroying the dwarven bathhouse. Aside from the discipline of the dragon, Momonga learns that the dwarves are all distressed by the damage, to which Momonga feels is natural, although never would have thought the Frost Dragon would actually do something like this.

Sebas reports that he has spoken with his fellow members in the expedition and have something to mention, which take Momonga aback. The butler then goes on to say that since the dwarves have a habit of taking a bath after working, and bathing is essential to them, it is clear that if things continue like this, their labor efficiency will decline. In that case, why not let the Sorcerer Kingdom renovate the bathhouse or create a new bathhouse that was destroyed?

This idea has Momonga's attention. Sebas has heard for some time that his master has been thinking about expanding the sales channels for his bath-related inventions, so this time will be an opportunity for that purpose. Momonga gets what his servant is saying. In other words, this would maintain the labor efficiency and motivation of the dwarves, while also promoting the inventions of the Sorcerer Kingdom.

It's a good marketing scheme and also allows Momonga to show more kindness to the dwarves so there's no reason not to use this idea. Momonga approves of the idea and orders Sebas to immediately make arrangements for the bathhouse to be renovated with permission from the dwarves. Afterwards, Sebas informed the Regency Council about the renovation of the bathhouse by the Sorcerer Kingdom, and it was safely approved.

A few days later the bathhouse in Feo Berkana have been refurbished, completed under the supervision of Sebas, who proposed it. Present at the scene are the Regency Council who have come to inspect it. The dwarves, the Master of Caves and Mines and Commander-in-Chief, are in disbelief at the bathhouse as they are nothing like anything they have seen before. Better yet the High Priest of Earth notes that the bathhouse has been strengthen with magic to prevent it from being destroyed again. Even the Merchant's Guildmaster finds the scenery like a mural, which is supported by the Cabinet Secretary as he cannot believe this is really a bathhouse.

They are told by the protagonist that the bathhouse was made in the style of the Sorcerer Kingdom, which like the dwarves have a custom of bathing. He adds that the destruction of the bathhouse in Feo Berkana caused the Sorcerer King to be deeply hurt by the incident. Thus he relays that his master hopes they will accept this renovation as a token of his sympathy and friendship from the Sorcerer Kingdom. The Director of Food Production and Brewmaster find a novelty in the bathhouse, which is an odd box that has cold drinks. It is explain that it is an invention from a Sorcerer Kingdom, a device called a "refrigerator." And that it keeps drinks cold so that they can always have a cold drink after taking a bath. The Brewmaster get enthusiatic of the device when he learns it can even chill alcohol and even food. Within a few days, the new bathhouse, which featured the "styles of the Sorcerer Kingdom" and "the inventions of the Sorcerer Kingdom," was well-received by the other dwarves.

A day before returning to Feo Jura, the protagonist was taking a breather at the new bathhouse. The homunculus is grateful that the dwarves accepted the renovations and is glad that the presentation is done. Thankfully Momonga's suggestion to renovate the bathhouse to incorporate the interior design of Spa Resort Nazarick proved correct, as it was more popular than expected with the dwarves.

He then turns to enjoying a bath so that it can relax both his body and mind. When the protagonist thinks about it, it's been a while since he had been able to rest like this. He then wonders that if a bathhouse were built in the city of E-Rantel...it would definitely be an effective means of relaxation for the people. The mind of the protagonist has a flashback of the words Sebas said to him saying that the baths would be good for not just the people in the city.

After a few moments of contemplation, the protagonist admits that the butler was subtly inferring to him that he needed to take a break. The protagonist then decides out of the hot water having enjoyed it to head to the restarea outside the changing room as he remembered there was also a massage chair.

After getting out of the bath and changing his clothes, the protagonist casually leaves the changing room and see Sebas in a kimono laying on a massage chair, with Soi drinking a bottle of milk. The presence of Soi at the bathhouse comes as a surprise. Soi too feels the same as she and Slimeko did not notice that the protagonist was at the bathhouse. Regardless they are happy to see their friend slowing down and enjoying himself.

The protagonist then comes by Sebas to have a word and tells the butler he took time to enjoy himself and found it pleasing. Adding that he tells his friend that he finally understood what Sebas said to him. And figures that Sebas came on the mission to help him relax and rest. However agrees to keep this between them which the butler acknowledges with a ambiguous smile.

## Aftermath

After completing their mission, Sebas and Solution returned to Nazarick after parting ways with the protagonist and the others, and immediately reported to Momonga. The news that the bathhouse has become popular to the dwarves pleases Momonga.

Furthermore due to the recent restoration of the bathhouse, the Regency Council has also begun to consider resuming mining near the former royal capital, which will support the dwaves' motivation to work. Among the dwarves, there seems to be a growing interest in the inventions of the Sorcerer Kingdom. In turn, this will help expand the sales channels that Momonga was concerned about.

Momonga nods in appreciation to this news, finding it odd that the Frost Dragon's accident has given his nation a boon in making it and the dwarves in debt to him. He accounts this to be the result of Sebas's accurate on-site judgment and the knowledge of bathing that the Solution had acquired. He does not forget Lupusregina, noting her participation as an escort.

In addition Momonga never expected that the Frost Dragon would even be asked to transport trade goods. Albedo confirms this as now, there will be more elements that can be expected in future trade.

Demiurge voices that this result was unexpected, but calls out to Sebas for trying his best in his own way. This earns him a silent response from the butler. Momonga brings up the topic of their gifts that they received from the dwarves. Sebas reports that the gifts included were rare alcoholic beverages from their country and valuable minerals. There were also some of the treasures that were delivered by the Frost Dragon through the Regency Council...something which Momonga cannot grasp his head around.

It turns out some of the gifts were from the Frost Dragon's hoard, such as gold coins that seem to be from ancient times, armor made of gold and gemstones, magic wands. Momonga only heard that dragons only gives treasures to those they deems stronger than themselves. In other words, it's a "tribute.'' Momonga going back on Sebas's report he recalls that he "pierced a nail" in the dragon, but that does not explain what he did to make the dragon capitulate like this. Even though Momonga had some doubts embedded in his heart, the investigation in the Dwarf Country was successfully completed.

A while later, somewhere in E-Rantel. A trio laborers greet Sebas who returns their greetings. The men are surprised at seeing their old foreman, as they heard rumors he is still in the city at a request from the protagonist. The old man is happy to see his old co-workers and asks about the project they just helped build.

They report that things are going well so they can complete it on schedule. When some of them heard about the construction project they were surprised, but they cast all doubts after seeing the protagonist put his support in the hot spring spa will be built in a treatment facility. The men like the idea of a bath, let alone a hot spring treatment, since it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for them, even if it's for the aristocrats.

After the group departs, Sebas sees the protagonist approaching. Sebas asks how was his conversation with the on-site director. To which the protagonist answers that there are no particular delays in the construction progress which is more than enough. To be honest, one of the things the protagonist was worried about was whether this proposal would be accepted by the people involved, and he was prepared for interference from some people.

Sebas muses that the custom of bathing is not well established among the residents of the city. The protagonist to himself notes that it must be said that it is extremely difficult to popularize the custom of bathing, which is seen as a luxury item, among people who are not aristocrats. But he hopes to change that soon. In that sense, it may have been a good idea to announce the policy for the spa that we were going to build in advance. To which Sebas inquires a slogan of a spa that uses "hot water that the Sorcerer Kingdom ordered from the Dwarf Kingdom."

And including that it also has the effect of improving recovery from injuries and illnesses, and relieving mental fatigue. The next step now are the discussions with the city mayor regarding the means of supplying hot water. And recently the protagonist asked the Pharmacist's Guild to develop medicinal hot springs for use at spas. It would be best to introduce it first as a means of treatment for the sick and injured, and then proceed little by little based on the results.

The completed hot spring bath instantly gained popularity among the people of E-Rantel, including the sick and injured. This led to the spread of the benefits of bathing, and later public baths were opened for the general public, equipped with steam baths inherited from the Sorcerer Kingdom ——-that will be told in another story.

## References

1. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Prologue*
2. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Episode 1: The Restoration Is Progressing*
3. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Episode 2: Customs Of Mountain Dwarfs*
4. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Episode 3: Back To The Land Of Mountain Dwarfs*
5. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Episode 4: Bathroom Investigation*
6. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Episode 5: Continued Bathroom Investigation*
7. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Episode 6: Handmade*
8. ↑ *Thermae Dwarf Episode 7: Bathing Gives You Peace Of Mind*