19 Mii-chan Prepares for the Journey

After discussing the preparations for my trip to the neighboring town starting tomorrow, Mr. Schwarz gave me various pieces of advice. During this, Mii-chan was comfortably nestled in Mr. Schwarz’s arms.

Then, Mr. Schwarz insisted that I take this particular lamp with me.

It’s sturdier than the one in my inn room. Unlike the lamp that illuminates everything, this one has a reflective plate on the back that can be adjusted to change the range of light it casts.

He emphasized that having a reliable and durable light source is crucial in pitch-black environments. Even though it was expensive, it’s important to invest in something that will last.

Additionally, he recommended a heating device that warms up when switched on and a sun hat. I decided to buy them as well. Mii-chan seemed to really like the heating device.

“Mii.”

The total came to fifty thousand ret, so I handed over forty-five thousand ret.

I told Mr. Schwarz that I’d return after coming back and took my leave.

“Mii.”

“We look forward to seeing you again.”

Mr. Schwarz responded professionally to Mii-chan’s farewell, maintaining his composed demeanor. It was admirable. However, his gaze toward Mii-chan was very gentle.

It was lunchtime, so I went to the food stall area and fed Mii-chan at a table. I took out the cup of boiling water I had left with Mii-chan and checked it, but it was still boiling hot. It hadn’t cooled down at all. Anyone would believe it was just boiled. Good, this will work perfectly. Once Mii-chan finishes eating, the plan will begin.

I waited for Mii-chan to finish eating, then went to a nearby general store to buy ten wooden plates and ten deep plates. I returned to the food stall area, ordered some delicious-looking food, and had it placed on the plates I bought. I then put the food into Mii-chan’s bag. After that, I looked for a bakery and bought freshly baked bread, which I also stored in Mii-chan’s bag.

Now, I can enjoy freshly made meals anytime. The remaining food will be prepared by the innkeeper, Mr. Dogga. Thanks to the seasonings, the taste of the dishes has improved even more, so it’s a reliable choice.

Though it was still early in the evening, I had to head to the Hunter’s Guild, so I decided to visit the weapon shop I had promised to go to first.

“Oh, you came at just the right time. I’ve just finished.”

“That’s good to hear. I visited the craftsman you introduced me to this morning.”

“I see. And?”

“He said it was a very good piece. It will take about ten days for repairs and adjustments.”

“I knew it was a good piece.”

As he spoke, he placed the dagger and the shortsword on the counter. They looked completely transformed from when I brought them in.

“I re-wrapped the leather grip. The grip on this dagger is just for preventing slippage. Both are very fine weapons, the more you look at them. This shortsword didn’t have a maker’s mark, but it’s certainly a blade forged by a master craftsman.”

Holding them felt just right. The scabbard, which had been dull and hard to see before, now had a pattern resembling intertwined vines.

“Also, it seems this dagger is meant to be thrown. It’s designed more for stabbing than for cutting. The center of gravity is not on the grip but slightly in front of it. So, I judged it’s intended for throwing.”

“Do you mean it’s like darts or throwing knives?”

“Exactly. But unlike the disposable knives we sell, this one is quite heavy and can inflict significant damage on the target. On the other hand, it’s too valuable to be used as a disposable weapon. They probably used to retrieve them after throwing. That’s why they stopped making them; there’s no one to use them.”

I see, retrieving them each time would be quite troublesome, especially if you miss. Also, the scabbard for this dagger is really nice. It has a silverish green hue.

“For this dagger, I couldn’t identify the metal used. It’s quite old, so it might be from a lost technology.”

Well, it is an Artifact, so it makes sense that it’s old. It’s called a relic for a reason.

The shopkeeper also provided a sword belt along with the sword. It’s a type that wraps around the shoulder and waist to prevent slipping. It looks quite stylish.

“This is to thank you for showing me such a fine item.”

I was taught how to wear it on the spot and attached the shortsword and dagger. When I put on my coat, you couldn’t even tell I was wearing them. This is great; I’m really pleased.

“Thank you very much.”

“I’ll say it again, but don’t go looking for a fight just because you’ve got good weapons. Having a good weapon doesn’t make you stronger, you know.”

“Y-yes… I’ll keep that in mind…”

I came to the Hunter’s Guild feeling a bit down. I spotted Pamil and went over to her.

“Oh, Nero-kun. You look quite the warrior.”

“Huh? What do you mean by that?”

“Are you carrying a sword or something under your coat?”

“You can tell?”

“I can. After all, I’m the head of the Hunter’s Guild here.”

I see, that makes sense. People who know what to look for can spot these things easily. Now I’m feeling a bit down again…

“About the matter I called you for, I need you to deliver this letter to the Hunter’s Guild over there. And here’s the receipt and the map.”

Good thing I got these; otherwise, I might have ended up lost over there.

“Also, remember that the departure is at six in the morning tomorrow, so don’t be late and make sure to go to the west gate.”

“Yes, I understand. By the way, what’s the name of the trading company?”

“Oh, did I forget to mention? It’s the Alter Trading Company. It’s one of the top five biggest businesses in this city.”

Hmm, I see. I had no idea about that.

“Lastly, if anything happens, follow the instructions of the hunters. The escort request has been assigned to a reliable mid-level party and a promising young party, the most anticipated in this guild, so following their instructions should be safe.”

“Got it.”

“Don’t push yourself too hard and be careful. I’ve written in the letter that they’ll arrange your return at the other Hunter’s Guild, so don’t try to head back on your own.”

“Of course. I’m not planning on dying anytime soon.”

“Good. And make sure to keep an eye on Mii-chan. She mustn’t leave your side.”

“Mii~”

“Oh, I’m feeling so gloomy thinking about not seeing Mii-chan for a while…”

Haha… I’ll just keep quiet about that.

With the formalities done, let’s head back to the inn, Mii-chan.

“Mii~”