"Oh, Lilia!"

After waiting for a bit, a short dwarven man appeared from the back of the workshop. He had a stocky build and a magnificent white beard.

"Master Gregor, it’s been a while."

"I heard you’ve finally retired as an adventurer. There were still materials I wanted you to collect for me... And what’s this unusual group you’ve brought today?"

The dwarf had a point—me, a non-combatant, and the young Fia, standing next to the skilled adventurer Lilia in a blacksmith's workshop, made for a curious sight.

"Ah, yes. I retired from adventuring just recently. I’ve taken a position at this man Tetsuya’s store for adventurers, so I thought I’d drop by to introduce him to you, Master Gregor."

"Ho, a B-rank adventurer like yourself working at a shop? …Wait, could it be that shop that sells those low tables?"

"Oh, that’s right."

Low tables? Not the compass that’s been gaining fame?

"So you’re the owner of that shop! I’ve heard about you from Lilia and wanted to meet you!"

"It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Tetsuya, and I run an outdoor goods store for beginner adventurers in this town. I look forward to working with you."

"I’m Gregor, the head of this workshop. I had a look at that low table you sell—what a fine piece of craftsmanship! Its design is truly fascinating!"

"…Ah, thank you. Though I didn’t make it myself, I’m honored to hear such praise."

It seemed Gregor was more impressed by the low table than the compass. While adventurers may not find the table particularly exciting, it must pique the interest of a craftsman like him.

"Seeing other artisans’ creations like that is always inspiring. I’ve heard your store also sells a compass or something similarly practical. I’ll have to stop by your new shop soon."

"Yes, we officially open tomorrow. I’d be delighted to welcome you."

"I showed Gregor the foldable spoons, forks, and low tables I bought from Tetsuya’s store, and he found them fascinating. I thought this was a good opportunity to introduce you."

"I see. Gregor seemed stern at first glance, but he’s surprisingly easygoing. It was enjoyable hearing all those stories."

Afterward, Gregor enthusiastically praised the shop’s products with the excitement of a child. I got to share my knowledge about camping gear, which was fun. When we stock more advanced tents, I’d love to show him and get his input.

"Fia, you might’ve found it boring, though."

"Not at all! Just watching was interesting enough!"

We also got to see Gregor maintaining Lilia’s sword. Her weapon uses special materials, and only a handful of blacksmiths in this town, including Gregor’s workshop, can properly handle it.

This town isn’t just a hub for beginner adventurers—it’s also a place for craftsmen to hone their skills. However, since beginner adventurers can’t afford high-end weapons and armor, most skilled craftsmen eventually move to other towns. That makes artisans like Gregor, who have stayed here for years, invaluable.

"I’m starting to get hungry. There’s a place I frequent nearby—how about we grab some lunch? It’ll be my treat."

"Your favorite spot? That sounds exciting, but I’ll treat this time. The shop opens tomorrow, and we’ll all be busy, so I’ll need your help."

"No, I insist. You’ve treated me so often already."

"I couldn’t possibly let you treat me, Lilia."

While Lilia is undoubtedly stronger and wealthier than me, I have my pride as a man. I can’t just let her pay for everything.

"No, no, I can’t let you treat me every time. This one’s on me!"

"Wha… ah…"

Lilia wasn’t budging, and poor Fia looked a little overwhelmed.

"Fine. I’ll let you treat us for lunch. But in return, I’ll treat you both for dinner."

"Alright, deal."

"As expected from your favorite spot, Lilia. The food was excellent!"

"Yes! It was delicious! Thank you, Lilia!"

"……"

Lilia’s go-to restaurant served various dishes made from ingredients I’d never seen before, like dorld meat and baz meat. While it was a bit pricey, the experience was worth it.

"Hmm? What’s wrong, Lilia?"

"Well, it was delicious, but… compared to what I’ve been eating lately, it felt a bit lacking. Maybe I’ve gotten used to Tetsuya’s cooking and become a little spoiled."

She had a point—the outdoor spices we use might actually taste better than the restaurant’s salt and pepper.

"Still, it was great to try new ingredients, and the sauce was wonderfully seasoned. Thanks for the treat, Lilia!"

"As long as you two enjoyed it, that’s all that matters. Let’s head to the general store adventurers often use next."