The "full story" regarding a standalone Apple Configurator 2 download link is that an official direct download link from Apple does not exist
You may find "DMG links" on forum posts or file-sharing sites, but using these carries significant risks: Security Threats: apple configurator 2 dmg file download link
Apple prefers the Mac App Store for consumer and enterprise delivery because it ensures version control, licensing (even for free apps), and streamlined updates. DMG files are considered “legacy” distribution for this tool. The "full story" regarding a standalone Apple Configurator
Apple distributes most of its modern consumer and pro apps (e.g., Configurator, iMovie, GarageBand, Pages, Numbers, Keynote, Xcode) exclusively through the or via System Settings updates. Reasons include: licensing (even for free apps)