"…So, as I said, I’ve come from a world different from this one."

"……………"

"And as you’ve just seen, I have the ability to exchange money to summon items from my original world. Everything sold in this shop is brought here using that ability. Lange only pretends to procure the items for me. I’m sorry for keeping this a secret from you until now, Dolph."

"……………"

With the level of my outdoor shop ability reaching 4 and the range of products increasing, I decided it was time to share my secret with Dolph.

After today’s business ended without incident, I chose to speak to Dolph before beginning the closing tasks.

Although I explained everything to him, Dolph remained silent. I had even demonstrated the process by charging gold coins and purchasing an item right before his eyes. Yet, he neither spoke nor reacted.

Was the idea of coming from another world simply too far-fetched to believe? Or perhaps he did believe me and was just processing everything in his mind?

"So, the reason all the goods in this shop are things I’ve never seen before… is because of that. I see. Now that I think about it, it does make sense. It seems Lilia and Fia-chan already knew about this, didn’t they?"

"Yes. I told them before we hired you. I do feel bad for not telling you sooner, Dolph."

"No, it’s natural not to share something so significant immediately. Rather, I’m honored that you chose to tell me, even as just an employee.
…Still, another world, huh? I understand it logically, but it’s hard to imagine. You look like an ordinary human to me, so it doesn’t feel real."

"…You can think of it as me coming from a very faraway country if that’s easier."

To be honest, whether it’s a foreign country or another world, they’re not so different in essence. Especially in this world, where civilization hasn’t progressed as far.

"Alright. I understand. You trusted me enough to share this, so I swear not to tell anyone—even if I were offered a mountain of gold.
…Well, unless something happens to Angel. I admit I tend to… overreact slightly when it comes to her."

"……………"

…Yeah, let’s leave the definition of “slightly” aside for now.

"In such a case, prioritizing Angel’s safety is absolutely fine. My secret isn’t nearly as important as everyone’s lives and safety.
In fact, if the situation calls for it, don’t hesitate to disclose it to ensure your survival."

Honestly, if I were tortured, I’d probably spill everything in seconds. The worst-case scenario might involve imprisonment or being confined, but I doubt they’d outright kill me.

"…I swear I’ll do everything I can not to speak a word of it!"

"I won’t say anything! Absolutely not!"

"Yes, I’ll vow to keep silent, even at the cost of my life!"

"Seriously, it’s fine to talk if you need to…"

Even if I were captured or restrained, there are now plenty of people who would stand by me. I’d just have to trust them and wait for help to arrive.

"Great work today, both of you. Let’s do our best again tomorrow."

"Good job!"

"Yeah, see you tomorrow."

After explaining things to Dolph, it seemed he had come to accept my story. We then wrapped up the closing tasks as usual and let Dolph escort Fia-chan home.

"Wait a moment. Here, a little treat for the two of you. Enjoy it with Angel and Rea."

"Oh, thanks."

"Thank you, Tetsuya-nii!"

"It’s a sweet snack from my world. I hope everyone enjoys it."

I handed them a bundle containing chocolate bars and sweet bean jelly. Since Lange and Lilia had liked them, I was sure their families would, too.

Alright, time to head out and gather even more allies. The scary part is that there’s always the possibility they might become enemies instead…

"Yo, Tetsuya, Lilia. What brings you here?"

"We have a bit of business to discuss. It’s been a while, Patrice."

When we mentioned we had something to talk about, we were promptly guided to the Guildmaster’s office. It seemed they trusted us to a fair extent.

"It’s been a while, Tetsuya, Lilia. That smoked wild boar meat you shared with us the other day was absolutely delicious. Thank you."

"I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it."

After seeing Dolph and Fia-chan off, Lilia and I decided to visit the Adventurers’ Guild.

I had consulted with both Lilia and Lange, and we concluded that I should share my secret with the Guildmaster, Rizac, and the Deputy Guildmaster, Patrice.

With my shop’s abilities leveling up, I could now purchase items beyond just compasses and water purifiers. This meant there was a growing chance I’d encounter more troublemakers. Additionally, I needed their cooperation for various plans.

Of course, there was always the slim chance these two might turn against me. Though I trusted them not to, the possibility couldn’t be entirely dismissed.

Knowing this, Lilia had told me she’d side with me no matter what—even if it meant opposing the Guild. Her words filled me with gratitude.

Now, it’s my turn to steel my resolve!