Chapter 29

Starting from today, it's another three episodes. (2/3)

"Shota, please don't take your sister's teasing too seriously. It's all just a manifestation of her loneliness."

"Wha, Maki!?"

"She just wants attention because she's lonely. Don't you think that makes her seem cute?"

"A, ah ah..."

"..."

The image of Akiko I know is quite different, so I couldn't quite understand, but seeing her blush and stammer right in front of me, I felt like I could understand.

Indeed, I started to feel a strong urge to protect her. Even the teasing from before, I could now handle to some extent. The prejudice I had towards Akiko, Maki's single word had easily overturned it...

"Also, she acts like the older sister, but she's actually the same age as you, Shota."

"!!!"

"Ah... It's out."

"She just looks like a hassle. If she's lonely, she should just say it."

"Maki, you're closing the distance too quickly..."

"That's why it's been three years."

"Ah..."

Akiko is being defeated by Maki every time she says something. It's hard to tell who the older sister is.

As I was thinking this, Maki pulled me over and made me sit next to Akiko.

"Come on, Shota. Please pet your sister's head. It will improve her mood, and you'll lose your aversion to her, seeing her as a big dog or something."

"Um... like this?"

"H, hmm..."

I don't have much experience petting women, but mimicking Maki, I started petting Akiko's head. Her face turned red immediately, and she became more and more docile. As we continued petting her, she started to look happier.

"Hehehe..."

Maybe the pleasure of being petted outweighed her embarrassment...? She's so true to her desires.

As this was happening, Maki stopped petting. I also let go, but Akiko was still smiling. Akiko, you're such a person... If you can smile like this, I wouldn't mind petting you regularly.

"Since your sister has recovered, let me explain again."

"Ah, yeah. Thanks."

Despite all that happened, Maki started as if nothing had happened.

She's strong.

"Akiko and I discussed and prepared equipment that matches Shota's strength. First, let's look at this sword. Since Shota prefers to use a one-handed longsword, we chose this equipment. It's the 'Sixth Generation Type - Goryo San-shiki.' It's a masterpiece created by 'Shokunin Second Weapon Workshop,' which develops all kinds of weapons using dungeon technology. Although it was manufactured two years ago, it's still a high-grade item with a sharp edge, rumored to be able to cut through rock. It not only has excellent attack power but also outstanding durability, being resistant to breaking, bending, and damage."

"Originally, it's a product for mid-level adventurers, but Shota can handle it now."

"Wow..."

'Shokunin Second Weapon Workshop.' A top manufacturer in Japan for weapon production, known for its high-quality and high-performance products. As a boy, I always admired such powerful weapons, but I never thought I would hold one in my hands...

As I held and examined the sword, the sisters were smiling. The older one was more like a grin.

"It's really great, but wasn't it expensive?"

"Don't worry. First, the 'Super Strength' you submitted was auctioned for 58 million."

"Really!? Isn't that high?"

"Not really. The starting price was 35 million, but it was the first item of its kind in this region's auction in months. Many people had been waiting for it, so it got quite competitive."

"Since I had your permission, I used your share of 46.4 million. The sword cost 40 million, so it was just right."

"That's... The price is so different from my world, I'm speechless. Also, how did you manage to get such an expensive weapon so quickly?"

"We finalized the appropriate equipment yesterday and immediately placed the order. So, not only this sword, but the other equipment also arrived this morning."

They must have discussed until late last night.

I'm really grateful. And to have such amazing weapons and even perfect armor...

Wait, but I only have 6.4 million left, right? I've put some living expenses in the bank, but the guild shouldn't be able to use it without my permission...

Still, the other armor seems to have a different kind of shine, a different aura...

"Hey, did you have enough money for the other armor?"

"..."

The two looked at each other.

Their reaction... Could it be...?

"Hey, both of you..."

"First, let me explain the armor. This is a set of equipment to protect the head, torso, arms, and legs, created by 'Shokunin Third Armor Workshop.' It's made using super alloys created with dungeon technology, and it's called the 'Fourth Generation Type - Lightweight Hybrid Armor MK.2.' The price is... 12 million."

"..."

"Below this, the armor that would suit Shota would be much older and less protective. This was the only one that fit well."

"Where did the money come from?"

"This time, it came from my and my sister's share from the 'Super Strength' and our savings..."

"Wait, you two paid for it!?"

Freelancers go this far?

No, that can't be. It's because it's these two that they went this far.

Akiko is caring, and Maki, from what I've seen in the past few days, is very devoted. They could do this.

Still, to use their savings...

"I have a lot to say, but thank you. The money you paid was for my safety. Thinking about that makes me genuinely happy."

"Shota..."

"Shota..."

"But from now on, I want you to consult me first. I was the one who discussed the equipment, and I said it was fine to use the money from the auction, but it's a bit much to have you two pay when it runs out. It's embarrassing as a man."

"Yes, I'm sorry..."

"From now on, I'll consult properly..."

It's a relief that they understand, but Akiko being so quiet is still strange. Well, it's fine. She's just trying to do her job as a dedicated freelancer.

The fact that you two paid out of your own pockets means I was doing something dangerous. I have to come back alive. I need to get stronger and make you feel more at ease.

"Hey, Shota. Can you change here?"

"Ah, yeah. Got it."

I handed over my old iron equipment for a trade-in and put on the new armor.

When I was hunting slimes, the iron equipment felt heavy, and I could barely move at first... But this new armor is incredibly light. It might even be lighter than the iron equipment I used to wear.

With this, I might be able to handle the 'Murder Rabbit's' attacks without any problem.

"It's beautiful!"

"It suits you!"

"Thank you, both of you."

So, I sold the items to repay you, but you've repaid me even more. Then I have to do even more to repay you!

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