Aoto stood before the eagerly gathered group, their eyes shimmering with a mixture of excitement and curiosity. He acknowledged their fervor for knowledge but felt compelled to remind them of their obligations.
"I sense the palpable enthusiasm and insatiable thirst for knowledge among all of you. However, let us not overlook our duties," Aoto spoke, his voice carrying a tinge of solemnity. He reached into his belongings, revealing a handful of items bestowed upon him by the enigmatic system, although not every item.
"This is Adamnatium," Aoto proclaimed, presenting chunks of rock that melded a mesmerizing combination of black and silver hues. Except for Edward, the group seemed rather indifferent, perceiving it merely as an ordinary stone. However, Edward's interest was piqued at the mention of a new type of rock.
"This substance can only be molded once to rid it of impurities, thereby transforming it into the strongest metal known to mankind. It is impervious to any force. Edward, I entrust you with this metal. Shape it into kunai, shurikens, and if possible, blades. I will enlist skilled blacksmiths to assist you. Do you believe you are up to the task?" Aoto inquired.
"Wait, did you just say it's the strongest metal?" Edward questioned, his eyes brimming with newfound curiosity.
"Yes, the molecular composition of this alloy renders it extraordinarily stable and unbreakable. If ever shattered, it would imply the intervention of forces beyond the confines of conventional physics," Aoto replied, sparking a glimmer in Edward's eyes. The metal held great potential for crafting automail parts, and even Winry recognized the value as she examined the rock in her hand.
"Perhaps this could be used for automail as well," Winry mused, realizing that incorporating components made from the strongest metal would alleviate the burden of frequent repairs.
With the distribution of the metal settled, Aoto turned his attention to Corazon, discussing ways to support him in manga sales. While manga held a modest market in Aoto's own world, it presented an opportunity for both leisurely reading and financial gain.
Gradually, everyone comprehended that Aoto had entrusted them with specific tasks, tailored to their individual skills. While Winry was expected to work on automail, akin to Hot Pie, the vast knowledge Aoto had shared invoked a sense of reciprocity among the group.
It was the least they could do.
Aoto decided that upon Shikuro's return the following day, he would assign him the responsibility of wine sales. Thus, each person had a designated role, and Arya also received her fair share of tasks.
Edward was tasked with solar panels and lithium batteries.
Arya would oversee the sale of female cosmetics.
Aoto himself would dedicate his efforts to selling magical pouches.
Three items remained, one of which was a book Aoto believed he could sell to the new medical school, given their fascination with literature related to bones. Once each person received their assigned tasks, Aoto granted them access to the library, understanding their yearning for further knowledge.
However, before they immersed themselves in the wealth of books, Aoto singled out one individual, requesting a private conversation. It was Pinako Rockbell.
"Kid, there's something you're reluctant to sell or even discuss openly, isn't there?" Pinako directly asked as Aoto beckoned her to a secluded corner. Aoto experienced a mix of embarrassment and surprise, his anger simmering beneath the surface.
Never in his wildest dreams had he imagined that the system would require him to sell sex toys. The idea seemed absurd, and his initial instinct was to discard them entirely. However, he recognized that refusing would mean forfeiting progress within the system. With resolve, he clenched his teeth and accepted his obligation.
"I apologize, Grandma. Truly sorry... There are certain items I need to sell, and if I don't, I won't be able to move forward," Aoto confessed, his words laced with remorse.
"We understand. We know that, like us, you have your own obligations. No need to apologize. Now, show me what you need me to sell," Pinako responded, her voice a mixture of empathy and wisdom. Aoto was surprised to discover that these people not only understood his predicament but also comprehended the importance of fulfilling his assigned tasks.
Barely a day had passed, and they had already grasped the nature of his obligations. It was to be expected from a group well-versed in literacy. Aoto then presented Pinako with a selection of sex toys and a stack of condoms. Initially, she failed to recognize these objects, but upon closer inspection, her previously concealed eyes widened in comprehension.
Her pipe, tightly clenched in her hands, snapped in half, sending a shudder through Aoto. He stood in silence as Pinako's anger became palpable.
"These items require a separate establishment for sale. I won't sell them here," Pinako declared, her voice trembling with indignation. The audacity of Aoto's request far exceeded her expectations.
"I apologize once again, Grandma. I'll do everything within my power to rectify this situation," Aoto vowed earnestly.
"It's fine. Just get me a new pipe. This one is beyond repair," Pinako responded, her anger subsiding. Aoto nodded in understanding, and with their conversation concluded, Pinako headed towards the library to explore the vast expanse of knowledge it held.
Aoto, however, had a different destination in mind. He bypassed the library, making his way to Konoha's real estate office. His objective was to secure a nearby plot for his own shop and an additional, slightly distant space for Pinako's adult items. Having traversed Konoha, he knew that an adult store would be a groundbreaking venture, and he hoped the townsfolk would embrace it without prejudice.
It appeared that he would need to discuss this matter with Fugaku.
Aoto after showing up came up to realization that it was a holiday and he could only get the office open the next day. With dejection he came back, but soon he entered the library after coming back. He had a long time ahead and was ready to read. But before that he needed to sleep a bit and get his own biological battery recharged before cramming it with knowledge.
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