Chapter 43

Oh no. Oh no. Oh no.

I hurry towards the general store, feeling anxious.

Girls often say, "The price doesn't matter, it's the thought that counts," but that's a lie.

They definitely evaluate by price. Price equals sentiment. Well, there's a handsome guy adjustment, but still.

I look down at my pot belly and give up on the adjustment.

Ah, it's too busy. Ideally, I should be practicing magic and spear training, among other things.

Even though I haven't been in this world for long, there have been too many events.

I recall my original world, the work and daily routines I used to manage despite being busy, and feel nostalgic.

I thought I was busy, but I had some leeway. I realize that civilization is meant to create leeway.

"Well, it's basic that newbies are busy, especially in this world."

I can't help but complain.

I see the general store and stop to catch my breath. If I show my anxiety, they'll take advantage of me.

I take a deep breath, approach the store, and open the door.

"Welcome. Ah, as always."

It's the usual old man.

"I want to see the jewelry. Can you show me?"

After a brief response, he lifts the counter flap and guides me.

On the shelves behind the counter, relatively expensive items are displayed. Ah, sugar is here too.

At the end of the row of rings, necklaces, and bracelets, there are engagement bracelets.

They all look like gold, and it's hard to tell the difference. Are they made from the same mold? There might be a standard.

When I get closer and look at the intricate designs, I see that each one is different.

There are no price tags.

"Are the engagement bracelets different in price?"

"Each one, including the craftsmanship, costs 20,000 wyr."

It's much cheaper than I thought. According to him, the weight standard is somewhat fixed, and items from the same workshop are made from the same mold.

When converting a ring, they add gold or stones and apply intricate designs to make a profit.

The owner said he can handle the name engraving.

Apparently, stores that deal with jewelry can engrave names after completing the Jewelers' Guild training.

"How long will it take?"

"About 30 minutes should be fine."

I write my and Liz's names on a piece of parchment. I'm a bit worried if the spelling is correct.

<Notice. Correcting the spelling of the formal names.>

Since the 'Scholar' teacher said so, I have to trust it.

I have some time to spare. I need to deal with the water issue and visit Pardis.

I excuse myself and go up the stairs. I see Pardis sitting idly.

"Hey. I heard you had a tough time."

As expected in a village society, the situation is well-known.

I briefly explain what has happened so far and ask about the 'Attribute Control (Water)'.

"Interesting, as you said."

His tone is the same as always.

"Well, the main goal is to secure drinking water."

"Last time, when you used earth, did you convert it back to magic essence? Can you drink that stuff?"

Apparently, the previous action was like a cheat.

For material-based spells like earth or water, there's a 2-second delay after activation, during which you can convert it back to magic essence.

Is this a lag in the generation or transfer of mass?

<Understanding. Referencing prohibited matters... Referencing... Referencing... Partially referenced.>

<Earth, water, fire, and wind are transferred from a designated shared star.>

<During this process, a portion that is not affected by this star is returned in equal measure.>

<This phenomenon is an act of misinterpreting certain information during the transfer, which is not recommended.>

It seems that once the transferred material is affected and changed, it is transferred again.

If I were the manager, I'd go crazy. Managing mass conservation would be a hassle.

Incidentally, with practice, you can adjust the amount and temperature of water. Temperature adjustment is only possible with water.

Apparently, you can clearly imagine from ice to steam. Water is measured in units, not compressed.

Apparently, a proficient person can achieve phase transitions. If compression isn't possible, it's from 0 to 100 degrees.

Thinking about it, this spell is quite terrifying. If you get scalded with boiling water, you'll get a severe burn instantly.

A large amount of boiling water. It could be a military weapon. Imagine boiling water raining down from above. It would definitely cause severe burns.

Considering it for combat, it's the most terrifying. Even with armor, repeated exposure would cause burns in no time. It's too scary.

"Securing drinking water is important. It's a good thing."

He says it casually, but this is quite dangerous. I was tasting the water.

While talking, 30 minutes pass. I say goodbye and go down the stairs.

I see that he has bowed. It seems to be done. When I look, the names are engraved properly.

I hand over 20,000 wyr and leave the store.

At least, I can breathe a sigh of relief now.