Akatsuki Translations

In the sprawling plaza that served as the entrance to the Dungeon of Sin known as Greed, just east of it lay a bustling district teeming with blacksmiths and craftsmen who specialized in weapons, armor, and all manner of martial gear. 

Normally, craftsmen who dealt in weaponry and armor would first wholesale their creations to merchants, who would then distribute them throughout the market. However, in this peculiar corner of the world, the circumstances were different within the treacherous depths of Greed. 

Here, the circulation of materials for crafting weapons and armor was directly linked, and the abundant presence of adventurers ensured a constant demand for such gear. In other words, the flow of armaments within this city remained entirely self-contained. As a result, there was no need for craftsmen to go through the process of wholesaling to merchants, and many of them held exclusive commercial rights granted directly by the city itself. (Of course, they still supplied wholesalers who catered to merchants from other cities.) 

Consequently, the streets of this craftsman district were frequented by numerous adventurers who recognized it as a treasure trove of tools and equipment essential to their trade. Moreover, since there was no intermediary involved in the distribution, the prices of the armaments found here were relatively lower compared to those in other cities. This reputation attracted visitors from distant cities who would go out of their way to witness the selection firsthand. 

Now, recently becoming an unfortunate young adventurer, Ur made his way here just like any other. 

“Hey there, kid, quit starin’ down that mountain of weapons like you’re about to take ‘em all on.” 

A short, bearded dwarf with bulging muscles, he was not only an elder among the local blacksmiths but also their leader. He called out to Ur, who continued to gaze longingly at the weapons. 

“Seriously, I want to upgrade my gear.” -Ur 

“And what’s your budget?”  -Dwarf Blacksmith 

“Just give me some useful armor that I can buy for about five copper coins.” -Ur 

“Go home, kid. Even a foolish brat dreaming of becoming an adventurer has gotta be holdin’ onto a few silver coins.” -Dwarf Blacksmith 

Although relatively cheap, it goes without saying that any practical weapons and armor come at a considerable price. Sure, the low-cost options are convenient, but if that’s the case, it would probably be better to make do with the “second-hand” items that are likely gathering dust in the training facility. 

“A helmet for twenty silver coins? With this, I can survive for three months…” 

“They’re still on the cheaper side, those items. After all, this is a dungeon city. The demand is abundant, to say the least.” 

“…I guess there are plenty of buyers. Well, being an adventurer is easier than being a craftsman, I suppose.” 

Delving into the dungeon, slaying monsters, and earning money—adventuring was a dangerous yet lucrative and simple endeavor. It was evident without even considering the numbers that those who joined the guild, became apprentices to experienced masters, and underwent years of training to become skilled craftsmen far outnumbered them. 

“With the greater number of dungeon divers, things are bound to become more expensive” -Dwarf Blacksmith 

“But craftsmen wouldn’t want adventurers dying either. Can’t you lower the prices?” -Ur 

The bearded dwarf, with a scruffy beard swaying with each huff and puff, dramatically swung his colossal hammer, which stood as tall as he did, with a resounding “Gon!” 

I’m a craftsman who makes the very objects that hold the very lives of you adventurers in their hands. With that in mind, there’s no way I’d compromise on the price of the weapons and armors I pour my life and pride into fashioning.” -Dwarf Blacksmith 

“Hmm.” -Ur 

Ur turned around to face behind him. 

“Oh, what a lovely dagger you have there. Did you craft it yourself?”  -Shizuku  

“Well, yeah! How about it, miss? I’ll let this dagger go for just one silver coin!” 

“Thank you, but I’m sorry. I don’t have much on me right now.” -Shizuku 

“I don’t mind if you pay later! This weapon of mine suits your beauty perfectly…!!” 

In the background, a young craftsman and Shizuku were negotiating, or rather, it seemed more like the infatuated man was fawning over Shizuku. Ur turned his gaze forward again, and the dwarf’s eyes took on a distant look. 

“…Craftsmen don’t really have a way with women, especially those humans whose skin gets burned by a hot stone,” he remarked. 

I see, Ur nodded. And then, 

“Please, lower the price.” -Ur 

“Don’t wanna.” -Dwarf Blacksmith 

“I desperately need the money to buy back my pitiable sister who was sold off.” -Ur 

“Just the other day, your sister was happily strolling around with a blond girl, you know.” -Dwarf Blacksmith 

“Big brother is sad.” -Ur 

“I got work to do, so do me a favor and lament elsewhere, kid. ” -Dwarf Blacksmith 

With a flick of a worn-out brush, Ur was chased-out. 

　　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ 

In the courtyard outside the training facility barracks, next to the well… 

“…I want some armor.”  -Ur 

“Indeed, that would be nice.” -Shizuku 

Currently, only Ur and Shizuku were utilizing the barracks, and the well remained exclusively theirs. They freely drew water from the well, inspecting their equipment. Maintaining their weapons and armor, upon which they entrusted their lives, was also part of their duties. Following Glen’s instructions, they made it a point to perform maintenance daily. However, the state of their equipment, the crucial aspect, left much to be desired. 

–Name: Ur– 

[>Adventurer-Trainee (Male♂)] 

–Rank– 

[>None] 

–Armament– 

[>Iron Spear [F], Wooden Shield [F], Leather Armor [F], Leather Leg Guards [F]] 

–Occupation– 

[>Warrior] 

–Possessions– 

[>None] 

–Notes– 

[>Saving up 1000 gold coins for sister’s redemption] 

–Name: Shizuku– 

[>Adventurer-Trainee (Female♀)] 

–Rank– 

[>None] 

–Armament– 

[>Magic Staff [F], Robe [F], Protective Necklace [F]] 

–Occupation– 

[>Heroine] 

–Possessions– 

[>None] 

–Notes– 

[>None] 

Considering their initial equipment, it was relatively well-stocked. However, everything they possessed was secondhand, with no guarantee of superior quality. While they were not flimsy enough to break easily, doubts and discontent lingered when it came to entrusting their lives to such gear. 

Moreover, after several encounters with monsters, they had gradually come to understand what they truly needed. 

“A full-body suit of armor would be nice.” -Ur 

“There are no concerns regarding weight, but won’t it restrict your movements?” -Shizuku 

“It seems that I’m not that agile.” -Ur 

During their simulated battles and dungeon explorations, Ur had a significantly higher rate of being hit than Shizuku. 

Of course, her focus on using magic as her primary means of combat reduced her chances of being hit, but even taking that into account, Ur sustained injuries more frequently. His wounds never seemed to heal. If it weren’t for Shizuku learning healing magic, he would have spent a considerable amount on healing potions (at the cost of five copper coins). Thank you, Shizuku-sama. 

However, relying on Shizuku repeatedly was becoming difficult. He wanted her to devote her magic to both offense and defense. Without that, their income wouldn’t increase, and most importantly, Ur himself didn’t enjoy pain. He truly detested it. He wanted to quit being an adventurer right away. But that wasn’t an option, so he had to improve his equipment. And that required money. 

“Adventurers really are stupid, aren’t they? Wasting our money on weapons and armor in order to increase our earnings.” -Ur  

“But we can’t put a price on our lives, can we?” -Shizuku 

Indeed, she had a point. 

That’s why Ur needed armor, especially one that could protect his entire body. Not something mediocre, but the best kind of magical ore armor that could deflect the fangs and claws of monsters. Of course, he had to consider their budget. 

“I would like some magical accessories to enhance my spellcasting abilities. I need to increase the number of times I can use magic.” -Shizuku  

While Shizuku was washing and drying her robe, she was halfway undressed, meticulously polishing her own staff. Her alluring figure was clearly visible, tempting Ur’s eyes, so he tried to divert his attention and continue the conversation. 

“How many times can you use magic now, Shizuku?” -Ur 

“Three times. I have four different spells.” -Shizuku 

“I gotta say, that’s an impressive talent.” -Ur 

Typically, novice mages could only use magic once, or at most, twice. They usually only had one type of spell. Being able to use four different spells was outstanding. Moreover, they covered offense, defense, support, and healing. 

“Perhaps our combination is reaching its limits…?” -Ur 

“Should we invite someone else?” -Shizuku 

“…Would there be anyone who’d want to join us in defeating the crystal golem? Maybe I should put up a notice at the tavern” -Ur 

“It doesn’t seem likely.” -Shizuku 

“I suppose not.” -Ur 

The activities of Ur and the others were driven by Glen’s urging, but they were in a hurry to live nonetheless. Diving into the dungeon every single day was a rare occurrence, and yet they were now even planning a direct assault on a crystal golem. 

While temporary alliances were possible, finding companions or a party that would stick with them constantly proved to be challenging. In that case, the only option was to enhance their equipment. However, money was a concern, and their funds were far from sufficient. 

They had pestered the dwarven craftsmen to accept copper coins, but it wasn’t as if they were in dire straits. 

Living in the training facility spared them from accommodation expenses. The cramped and miserable dormitory beds were bearable once they got used to them, and at least they had the place to themselves. The meals consisted of rock-hard bread only in the morning, but at least it came with the package. And every single day, they ventured into the dungeon for training. Half of the earnings went to Glen, but even then, their funds slowly accumulated. 

Currently, after deducting living expenses, such as future meal costs, Ur and the others had three silver coins that they could freely use. 

It seemed they could afford to acquire at least one piece of equipment anew… but having only one option still left them feeling uneasy. With only a single item, their choices would be severely limited, and if their purchase turned out to be a failure, it would be disastrous. 

“…In that case, there’s only one thing.” -Ur 

“One thing?” -Shizuku 

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ 

The Next Day, Training Facility, Lecture Room 

“Please give me some money because I want to buy new armor.” -Ur 

“Here ya’ go.” -Glen 

Early in the morning, Glen tossed five silver coins to Ur, who was begging him for pocket money. 

“You’re quick to the point, almost terrifying. Is this really okay?” -Ur 

“Well, it’s your money anyway. I’ve been collecting it every time you go into the dungeon.” -Glen 

As the silver coins hit Ur’s forehead, Glen responded with a hint of boredom. 

“To begin with, we don’t take money here. This place operates through cooperation between the country and the guild.” -Glen 

In return, they had to cover their own meals. They had to buy their own weapons and armor unless they settled for secondhand items. And Glen’s training was nothing short of Spartan. Users were squeezed dry and quickly fled, so only a few benefited from this advantage. 

“Then why were you collecting money until now?” -Ur 

“Newbies often try to buy ‘what they want’ instead of ‘what they need.’” -Glen 

Giant swords that seemed to showcase their existence, dazzling armor, flashy shields, and accessories with unknown magical purposes. Whether they were practical or not was a separate issue, but it was highly questionable whether newcomers could handle them. 

Yet, amateurs desired such things. 

“Well, most of the time, they get ripped off by merchants, struggle with handling them, and end up either discarding them or leaving them as relics.” -Glen 

“So, the secondhand items gathered here are like that?” -Ur 

“Not all of them, but a large portion.” -Glen 

Therefore, to curb such wasteful spending, they initially collected half of the fee. They provided the bare minimum equipment and only handed over the money once the users started thinking about what they truly needed. 

It was truly like giving an “allowance” to children from adults. 

“Well, most of them quit before reaching that point.” -Glen 

“Then it’s just useless kindness.” -Ur 

“It’s their fault for being cowards. I gave the money I collected from them.” -Glen 

Anyway, they had obtained the funds: five silver coins. Combined with their current holdings, it made eight silver coins. In other words, this was the meager savings that Ur and Shizuku had desperately accumulated over ten days of exploring the dungeon. Compared to the usual wages of ordinary citizens in a regular city, it was probably a substantial amount. Roughly speaking, it could be considered the monthly salary of a proper adult. 

But was it a high price or a low one when considering that their lives were at stake? 

By the way, the currency of the Isralia continent was coins created at the time of the Grand Federation’s formation. Their value was in the order of copper coins < silver coins < gold coins, and every thirty coins of a lower currency equaled one of the higher currencies. Simplistically speaking, at this rate, even after a hundred years, they wouldn’t come close to repaying their debts. 

Moreover, this was only the reward for Ur and Shizuku, two individuals. It meant that it wasn’t eight coins per person but four coins each, further distancing Ur from repaying his debts. 

“…No, I should stop.” -Ur 

His head shook vigorously as if to ward off the encroaching despair.  

He needed to focus on the task at hand. Eight silver coins. That was all he had to acquire the necessary equipment. The armor of Ur and the magical equipment of Shizuku. 

“Buy what you need. Consider your own party. Now, go.” -Glen 

This too was part of the training. With those words, Glen dismissed Ur and Shizuku from the training facility. 

　　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ 

“Buy what you need,” came the advice, spoken as if a parent were instructing a young child. While Ur and Shizuku were still young in age, they were certainly not at an age where they needed to be reminded of such advice by their parents. 

No, they didn’t need it. However, they would soon come to realize that following this advice would prove to be incredibly difficult. The reason being… 

“Well then, Shizuku, what do we need?” -Ur 

“We need lots and lots of things.” -Shizuku  

They needed too many things. 

As previously mentioned, Ur required armor, while Shizuku needed magical tools to assist with her spells. However, naturally, what they needed didn’t stop there. 

They desired weapons, armor, magical tools, healing potions, and even an antidote as insurance against the Deadly Poison Spider that lurked even in the upper levels. They required consumable daily necessities, clothing, and so much more. Of course, there were priorities, and sometimes things could be substituted. 

Yet, even after narrowing down the list, there were still mountains of things Ur and Shizuku needed. 

“Even so, armor is essential when it comes to the two of us fighting together.” -Ur 

“If one of us is lacking, we’re doomed.” -Shizuku 

“But I also want a weapon… The handle of my staff is starting to splinter.” -Shizuku 

“And the sound it makes when I swing my spear, it’s starting to creak. I hope it won’t fall apart while I’m in battle.” -Ur 

“Oh, Ur-sama, there’s a live demonstration of the Fire Lance, which extensively uses crimson fire crystals.” -Shizuku 

“But it costs a ridiculous amount, dozens of gold coins.” -Ur 

“There’s a great sale! The Azure Silver Armor, equivalent to twenty silver coins, is now only eight copper coins.” -Shizuku  

“But the plating seems to be peeling a bit.” -Ur 

Wandering aimlessly through the artisan street was a feast for the eyes, yet it also posed a great danger to their wallets. 

　　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ 

Guild, in simple terms, was a “labor union” where individuals engaged in the same trade protected each other’s rights and safety. The Adventurers’ Guild, as the foremost example (though with the increase in the number of adventurers, smaller “branch guilds” had also emerged), housed guilds of various types and purposes, each with its own diverse ideologies. 

Naturally, there existed guilds where blacksmiths gathered. They taught and learned from one another, pushing each other to greater heights. They divided, gathered, and collaborated based on their ideological directions, races, and various other forms. 

And among them, there was a craftsmen guild that Ur and Shizuku frequently visited. 

The guild bore a simple yet evocative name, “Golden Hammer.” Its goals and guild philosophy were equally straightforward. True to its name, it was a collective of ambitious blacksmiths who aspired to rise to prominence during the golden age of the dungeon. 

In the current era of dungeons, rampant with death and desire, their simple and forthright ideals found resonance. The Golden Hammer swiftly expanded its influence. As more blacksmiths, driven by the purpose of honing their skills, volunteered to join, it had now become one of the major guilds. Naturally, they also had their own corner as craftsmen true to their love for their craft. 

“So, show me something good.” -Ur 

“All of ours are top-notch, kiddo.” -Dwarf Blacksmith 

“That’s all well and good, but…” -Ur 

Ur was a regular visitor to the guild (although he rarely made purchases). 

His reasons for frequenting the guild were simple. He was recommended by Glen, informed that skilled artisans congregated there, and had been repeatedly encouraged by Glen to visit and familiarize himself with the craftsmen. He had also been instructed to study weapons and armor. 

Ur exchanged greetings with the familiar old dwarf who swung down his heavy hammer with a sigh. 

“I assume you’ve brought money this time, lad.” -Dwarf Blacksmith  

“Eight silver coins.” -Ur 

“You should’ve brought a bit more, you rascal… Hey, you guys! Come over here!” -Dwarf Blacksmith  

Being remembered and building connections was convenient, especially during times like these. They seemed to be considerate, perhaps aware of Ur and Shizuku’s complicated circumstances. 

However, they weren’t necessarily flexible in every aspect. After all, they were still businessmen. 

In particular, the Golden Hammer was meticulous when it came to money. They believed that the price paid for their goods directly reflected their own value and worth. They never compromised. Whether selling to merchants or directly to adventurers, their job was to ensure that their cherished products were purchased at a fair price. 

“Behold this emerald blade! Isn’t it exquisite? Its sharpness is unquestionable, and it’s light as a feather! It’s the Wind Spirit Sword, infused with the mana of the wind! Price: 29 silver coins!” 

“Wait, wait! Look at my helm! Don’t underestimate its plain appearance! Inside, it holds countless protective enchantments crafted by a master rune carver. It defends against not only monster fangs but also spells, poisons, and even insect bites! The Lifesaver Helm! Price: 25 silver coins!” 

“You guys just don’t get it! Adventurers rely on their feet! These Versatile Boots are made from the tanned hide of a king demon cow found only on the Westria continent, taking six months to prepare, sewn together using war bee stingers! Price: 2 gold coins!” 

“It’s so cool… if only I had the money.” -Ur 

“It’s truly marvelous… if only I had the money.” -Shizuku  

However, we would be in trouble if they didn’t calculate our budget for us. 

“I want armor that can be bought within a budget of eight silver coins.” -Ur 

In an instant, the craftsmen brought out gleaming helmets and swords, spitting disdain. It made Ur want to remind them that they were the customers. 

“You guys are still inexperienced, huh? If you’re willing to spend your entire budget, there are decent equipment options.” -Dwarf Blacksmith  

“I’d like to leave some budget for her magical tools, if possible.” -Ur 

“Don’t skimp on the armor, or you’ll end up with something inferior.” -Dwarf Blacksmith  

Armor, which protects the body, naturally requires a significant amount of materials. While it varies depending on the purpose and type, it’s generally expensive. When it comes to cheap armor, it’s best to be skeptical of its performance. 

“You might encounter cursed ones or those made with deceptive materials.”  

“Some even mix in other metals due to insufficient materials.” 

“There are dishonest people out there.” -Shizuku 

Shizuku trembled with fear as she said that, and immediately, young men jumped forward. 

“We would never do such a thing to you, my lady! You are beautiful!” 

“Yes! If anyone dares to deceive you, consult with us!” 

“We, the craftsmen, will teach that scoundrel a lesson !” 

“It’s me who’s buying the armor, though…” -Ur 

The attention directed towards Shizuku felt different from being genuinely caring, but as long as they were kind, anything would do. 

“So, um, if you’re buying within that budget, is this one fine?” 

The young artisan’s brother retrieved a milk-white upper armor with a somewhat muted color. Its design lacked flamboyance, yet it exuded a genuine and honest appeal. It appeared slightly larger than Ur’s physique, but unless it was custom-made, achieving a perfect size match seemed unlikely. Nevertheless, within the realm of compromise, this would suffice. 

“Is it sturdy?” -Ur 

“The material is. It’s called sub-silver, a mineral found in the dungeon. It looks very similar to silver, but it loses its color when brought to the surface. Its appearance is unattractive and not suitable for display, but it’s quite durable.”  -Craftsman 

Therefore, it was highly valued as a material for armor. However, as explained earlier, sub-silver that had lost its luster had an unappealing milky white or dingy white color, which made it unpopular even among adventurers. 

It was often mocked as “poor beginner’s equipment.” Some even claimed that if you no longer relied on this equipment, you would become a true adventurer. 

“In my opinion, adventurers who prioritize appearance and end up dead are much worse. What about you?” – Craftsman 

“No, I don’t care about appearances at all.” -Ur 

If you were concerned about people’s opinions, you wouldn’t even want to become an adventurer. Ur didn’t say that out loud, of course. Well, indeed, the color was far from what people generally called “cool,” but as long as it was practical, he didn’t mind at all. 

“The problem is the price.” -Ur 

“Seven silver coins.” -Craftsman  

“Lower it.” -Ur 

“Absolutely not.” -Craftsman  

The response was immediate. It seemed there was no room for compromise. 

“If you’re willing to buy, I’ll provide adjustments tailored to your body as a service. I don’t think it’s a bad deal, you know.” -Craftsman 

“Hmm… How much for the magical tool that Shizuku wants?” -Ur 

“It ranges from one to three silver coins. The quality matches the difference in quantity.” -Craftsman  

What she desired was a necklace made of a magical stone called a “Magic Storing Stone.” This magical stone not only absorbed magical energy like ordinary magical stones, but it also had the ability to release that energy while maintaining its shape without the need to shatter the stone. Essentially, it was a storage facility for magical power. 

In terms of performance, with just one silver coin, it could perform one instance of healing magic; with two, it could perform two instances; and with three, it could perform three instances of magic. 

Her magical abilities were precious. They directly contributed to the survival of the party as a whole and simultaneously provided firepower. However, if Ur’s armor were improved, it could reduce the number of necessary healing spells. Now, the question was, what should he do? 

“Oh, so it’s armor you want? In that case, I can offer something good too.”-Young Craftsman 

“Hey, stop interrupting our business,” he replied, ignoring the voice of the young craftsman. This time, a sturdy middle-aged craftsman stepped forward. 

“A shield, huh? It’s quite a dirty gray color. Is it made of sub-silver?” 

“Its performance is undeniable. It’s tough, heavy, and sturdy. Adventurers don’t mind the weight, right?” 

Compared to the shield Ur currently wielded, it was larger but not enough to cover his whole body. It was a medium-sized oval-shaped shield that he would wear on his arm rather than hold in his hand, hence the presence of a belt and handle for that purpose. 

Tightening the belt, it fit fairly well. 

“From what you’re saying, it sounds like you use a shield.” -Middle-Aged Craftsman 

“Yeah, I do.” -Ur 

Ur frequently used his shield. After all, he was not adept at agile evasive movements. Naturally, she could only avoid attacks by leaning forward, and in that case, a shield became essential. He had always been uneasy with a small shield, but with one of this size, he could easily thrust it forward to parry incoming strikes. 

“I think having a sturdy and reliable shield would make things much easier, don’t you?” -Middle-Aged Craftsman 

Since the incident where his shield had broken, there had been a lingering fear, and as a result, he hadn’t been able to effectively utilize the shield, resulting in an increased chance of being hit. However, if the shield became stronger, that worry might disappear. 

“By the way, how much does it cost?” -Ur 

“Five silver coins.” -Middle-Aged Craftsman 

“Lower it.” -Ur 

“Absolutely not.” -Middle-Aged Craftsman 

The response was immediate. There seemed to be no room for compromise. 

However, with five silver coins, he could afford to buy the “Magic-Storing Necklace,” which costs only three silver coins. Overall, would it be more advantageous to buy a shield? But the initial goal was to acquire armor. Shields only provide partial protection, while armor shields the entire body. The difference is significant. 

“…I know! Why not buy both armor and a shield?” -Ur 

“Ur-sama, please calm down.” -Shizuku 

Shizuku shook him, bringing Ur back to his senses. 

“Hmm… It’s difficult.” -Ur 

Managing finances was a natural part of life. Ur’s father, a good-for-nothing man, never even considered such things, so the concept of “making do” had been ingrained in Ur’s life and thinking. He would establish priorities within himself and choose where to compromise. 

However, he had no experience dealing with finances that directly impacted his life. 

Incomplete compromises could lead to death, so decision-making inevitably became cautious. 

“…By the way, what do you think, Shizuku?” -Ur 

“One set of armor and one magic-storing stone for a silver coin.” -Shizuku  

“And your reasoning?.” -Ur 

“Since Ur-sama is on the front lines, his well-being comes first.” -Shizuku 

Shizuku smiled brightly, sparkling with enthusiasm. It was dazzling. 

Well, her perspective was correct, and it wasn’t necessarily wrong. In the first place, the choices were limited. It was a matter of one set of armor and one magic-infused stone for a silver coin, or a shield and three magic-infused stones. There might be more options if they searched the market, but both in terms of trust and skill, Ur didn’t have acquaintances more reliable than the Golden Hammer, and searching for new contacts would be difficult now. 

They could choose to forego or save for now, but when it came to acquiring new equipment, investing early was generally more profitable. Therefore, it inevitably came down to these two options. If Ur couldn’t decide, there was also the option of respecting Shizuku’s opinion… but… 

Consider the party. 

Glen’s words echoed in his mind. However, considering what their current party, consisting of Ur and Shizuku, was capable of, the cover of mankind’s wisdom in weaponry was questionable. 

“Hmm?” -Ur 

“Hmm?” -Shizuku 

Ur tilted his head in confusion as he looked at Shizuku, who, in turn, mimicked his gesture. 

　　　　　　　　　　　◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆ 

“Then, what did you end up doing?” -Glen 

“I bought a shield and a magic-storing accessory (equivalent to three silver coins), spending eight silver coins.” -Ur 

Ur equipped his arm with a new, robust shield, while Shizuku hung a faintly orange shimmering stone around her neck, smiling cheerfully. She seemed to be fond of its design. 

“It looks cool!” -Shizuku 

“You have boyish tastes… Anyway, what happened to the armor you originally intended to buy?” -Glen  

“I entrusted the armor to Shizuku.” -Ur 

Ur glanced at Shizuku briefly. She nodded silently, clasped her hands together, and focused, reciting an incantation for a new spell. 

“【Sing, O wind, and dance with us; Wind Armor】” -Shizuku  

In the next instant, an invisible “armor of wind” appeared over Ur’s used leather armor. 

“I see. You’ve learned a new spell.” -Glen 

“I burdened her with it, but magic, as Glen mentioned, is all about adaptability and versatility.” -Ur 

The wind armor was a long-lasting creation of the wind. It could be used when needed and stored when not; a flexible armor. When asked if Shizuku could learn defensive magic, she nodded happily and impressively mastered it within the day. Truly, her talent was extraordinary. 

“I already had some knowledge of wind magic, so it was relatively easy to learn.” -Shizuku  

“I see. As expected of Shizuku.. So, was this a good choice?” -Ur 

“Well, that depends on you guys. If it didn’t exceed the limited budget, then it’s a success, right?” -Glen 

His answer lacked enthusiasm.