10: Mii-chan, the God Cat, Goes to a Fancy Store

Returning to the inn from the Hunter’s Guild, I found the dining area empty. It seemed breakfast time was already over. Everyone sure gets up early here.

I greeted the landlady and sat in the dining room to wait, well, with Mii-chan too.

“Mii~”

Mii-chan was currently engaging in combat training with my hand. Her cat punches were relentless! My left hand was under siege, time for my right hand to step in! Grabbing her belly gently, I gave her a tickling attack. She stretched out, surrendering. I continued to rub her belly; her fur was so soft and pleasant to the touch.

While we were at it, the landlady brought out breakfast.

I also served Mii-chan her cat food and mineral water. My breakfast consisted of a simple sandwich made of sliced black bread with lettuce-like greens, ham, and cheese, accompanied by hot milk.

Despite being petted by the landlady, Mii-chan was happily munching on her food. She didn’t seem to mind at all. Mii-chan, you’re quite the character.

After finishing breakfast, I thanked the landlady and set out to do some shopping. Today’s main mission was to buy an alarm clock. The landlady had mentioned that large tool or general stores might have them, so I asked for directions.

The largest shopping district in town was my destination. The inn and Hunter’s Guild were located along a major east-west road, while the main shopping area was along a north-south road. This shopping district wasn’t an arcade but rather an area with many upscale shops.

Yes, upscale shops. An alarm clock here was considered a luxury item. Most people in this world wake up naturally, without the aid of an alarm clock. Only those with plenty of money could afford such an item.

Though I’m sure I’ll eventually adapt, for now, I need an alarm clock. It’s a necessary expense, and I’ll have to accept it. “Welcome. What kind of items are you looking for today?”

I arrived at the store the landlady had recommended, but it felt entirely out of place for me. I had imagined a more modest, everyday kind of store. Apologies for my assumptions.

This shop was filled with what looked like antiques and other high-end items, all displayed neatly on shelves. It was an elegant store, seemingly catering to the wealthy.

I held Mii-chan securely in my arms, making sure she wouldn’t jump out. Everything here looked expensive, and I couldn’t afford to damage anything. Mii-chan, I’m sorry, but please stay still for a while.

“Mii~”

The shopkeeper, despite my clearly non-wealthy appearance, treated me with utmost politeness. His demeanor and appearance were like that of a professional butler. He was definitely a pro.

“I’m looking for an alarm clock.”

“An alarm clock, sir? Ah, I see, you mean a timekeeping device. Our timekeeping devices are located on this shelf.”

A tiekeeping device? Looking at the shelf, it was indeed a collection of timers.

“If you intend to use the timepiece as an alarm clock, I recommend this one. This piece has ten bells and is perfect for keeping track of time.”

“How much is it?”

“It’s 250,000 leto.”

Guh… that’s half of my entire savings… but I won’t be able to wake up without it. Maybe I can negotiate.

“I only have 200,000 on hand. Can you accept that for immediate payment?”

“Hmm…”

Did I push too hard? The shopkeeper is staring at me, deep in thought. What is he thinking?

“Very well. However, there are two conditions. If you agree to these conditions, I will sell it to you at that price.”

“W-What are the conditions?”

“First, you must make future purchases at our store. Second, I would like to hold that kitten.”

I nearly stumbled in shock… wow. That’s not something you say with such a serious face.

“I have no problem with that. Right, Mii-chan?”

“Mii~”

I gently handed Mii-chan to the shopkeeper.

“Ohh… what a texture, as smooth as the finest silk. Truly magnificent fur. I’ve seen cats owned by nobles occasionally, but none of them have the elegance and beauty of this one!”

“Mii~”

Mii-chan seemed a bit shy. Even though she’s still small, being a girl, she must be happy to be praised. Especially coming from someone as serious as this shopkeeper, even if it was just a social courtesy, it might have meant a lot to her.

While the shopkeeper enjoyed petting and cuddling Mii-chan, he also explained how to use the timer and its precautions. It was hard to tell whether he was serious or not.

It took about an hour before the shopkeeper finally got around to completing the transaction. I made sure to introduce myself before leaving.

“I’m Nero, and this is Mii-chan.”

“Oh, I apologize for the delay. I am Schwarz, the owner of the Willa Tool Shop. Please do visit us again.”

So, he was the owner. I’m sorry for the misunderstanding. I had thought he was just a shop assistant. He seemed more like a friendly old man than a shop owner.

I paid for the timer, promised to come back, and left the store.

“We look forward to your next visit. Feel free to come by just for a visit as well. Of course, please bring the kitten along.”

Schwarz’s true feelings were quite evident…

“Mii…”