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"Boss, please prioritize building the equipment that Lord Jason needs first," Raphtalia said decisively. She quickly added, "Master Jason, there are plenty of ready-made items here that are suitable for me. I can make do with those for now."
"Well… the little girl makes a good point. Excellent equipment requires sufficient strength to wield properly. If your strength is too low, it won't be much use." The shop owner stroked his beard thoughtfully. "By the way… may I ask what level the little girl is at now?"
"Raphtalia is currently level 29," Jason confirmed, not bothering to hide the information.
"Level 29? That's really impressive progress! For comparison, the spear hero who came here previously was only at level 26." The shop owner's tone shifted slightly as he shared this detail, slipping into casual conversation. "As for equipment made from Earth Dragon materials, the Earth Bear fur, and so forth, typically only someone around level 50 could wear it comfortably. So for now, there's no need to worry about customizing gear for the little girl. You can purchase some interim equipment from me instead."
Jason understood that Motoyasu, the spear hero, was gaining levels quickly due to his class specializing in high attack power, especially with the help of numerous adventurers. However, Jason didn't see Motoyasu as a threat, considering the slight level gap meant nothing to him.
"Did you say it needs to be around level 50 to wear? That takes a lot of pressure off. So, boss, please select a few suitable pieces of equipment for Raphtalia," Jason replied.
"Okay..." The shop owner nodded and prepared to find the right equipment.
Before he could start, Raphtalia interrupted, "Wait, doesn't that mean that even if Lord Jason's equipment is ready before the disaster wave, it won't be useful to him? After all, his level is only 30, still far from level 50 where he'd be able to wear it."
"I'm referring to normal people!" the shop owner exclaimed, almost sounding like he was reprimanding Raphtalia. "Do you honestly think Shield Hero has the strength of an average person?"
Jason felt a little helpless at this back-and-forth but knew the shop owner was just trying to emphasize Jason's capabilities.
"I see," Raphtalia said, relieved.
"Then let's take a look at this weapon first." At that moment, the shop owner set a magic steel sword in front of Raphtalia.
Jason recognized the sword, noting it was two levels stronger than standard iron swords. Crafted entirely from magic steel, it offered higher sharpness and strength without excessive weight. It also featured a special anti-bloodstain coating.
As Raphtalia picked up the magic steel sword, she demonstrated a few flourishes in the air, the weapon glinting in the store's light. "Master Jason, can I buy this sword? It feels very handy!"
"Of course! If you like it, it's yours," Jason replied, pleased. A good weapon would significantly bolster her strength, and he was enthusiastic about her becoming stronger—benefiting both of them in their journey.
"Thank you, Master Jason!" Raphtalia smiled brightly as she slid the magic steel sword into the scabbard hanging at her waist. She even checked her reflection in the mirror to admire her new look.
"Boss, how much does that magic steel sword cost?" Jason stepped forward to negotiate.
"180 silver coins," the shop owner replied.
"Touch zero, 18 silver coins," Jason countered confidently.
"That's a huge exaggeration! Is there such a negotiation tactic? With the materials you've sold, you're richer than some nobles! Don't be so stingy!" the shop owner argued, a hint of exasperation in his voice.
"Is it just me, or are you the one being delusional? You can tell I'm poor just by looking at me!" Jason retorted playfully, shrugging.
Seeing Jason's threadbear state, the shop owner glanced at him, clearly skeptical but also bemused.
"I don't have the silver coins right now, so I'll sell the materials and come back!" Jason threatened, albeit half-heartedly.
The shop owner nearly roared but then sighed in defeat. "Fine, I'll give you a discount. 150 silver coins. Normally, I'd sell it for 280 coins."
"Add a scabbard too," Jason noted, catching sight of the somewhat worn scabbard at Raphtalia's side.
"Alright, no problem—deal!" The shop owner quickly agreed.
"Also… help Raphtalia choose another outfit," Jason added.
In the end, Jason spent another 120 silver coins on a set of light armor for Raphtalia that offered decent defensive capabilities while not hampering her speed. Adding the price of the custom equipment, the total came to 770 silver coins.
As for himself, Jason opted not to change his equipment at the moment, figuring the custom gear would be ready tomorrow, and he didn't want to waste silver coins buying anything temporary.
He then sold the materials from his bag for 19 gold coins, less than the boss had suggested. He had prioritized keeping some especially precious materials for emergencies, leaving him with just 19 gold coins in total.
However, even with "only" that amount, he was considered rich in this country, where spending power could vary widely.
After months of hard work, it was time for Jason to reward himself with a hearty meal. He made his way to the same restaurant, pleasantly surprised to find that the wooden sign that had once offended him—'No demihumans and dogs allowed'—was no longer hanging at the door.
As soon as Jason entered the restaurant, the owner greeted him with the enthusiasm usually reserved for a long-lost father.
"Sure enough..." Jason thought, "If you want others to treat you well, you can either make them respect you or instill fear in them. It's clear I fall into the latter category."
Raphtalia ordered a children's meal, and Jason said nothing, merely smiling at her choice. Despite having blossomed into a beautiful young woman, the children's meal might hold special significance for her.
After lunch was finished, instead of training, Jason chose to find a luxury hotel for them to stay. As he stated, it was crucial to balance work and rest. After spending so much time hunting monsters in the wild, it was time for a little relaxation.
The next morning, the two of them checked out and made their way to a clock tower located in a small town just outside the city. The imposing bell tower towered over a dome-shaped church, giving off a grand atmosphere.
The door below was wide open, allowing a steady stream of people to enter and exit.
"Are you the Shield Hero-sama?" a woman clad in nun's attire approached respectfully as they reached the entrance.
"Yes... I just need to check how much time is left before the disaster wave arrives," Jason replied, keeping his tone brief as he didn't wish to engage in unnecessary conversation.
"Right this way, please," the nun instructed, leading Jason and Raphtalia toward the center of the church, where a colossal hourglass stood.
The giant hourglass towered nearly 7 meters tall, with intricate patterns engraved on its surface that imparted a sense of both sacredness and solemnity. However, the bright red sand within appeared to be emitting a faint glow.
As Jason focused, a number materialized in his field of vision: 9:03.
In other words, there were still 9 hours and 3 minutes remaining before the wave of disaster would strike.
"Huh~~~ That person over there looks familiar. Is that you, Jason?" a somewhat irritating voice came from behind him.
Instantly, Jason felt a rush of excitement. "It's been a while since the system selection has appeared…" he thought, recognizing the unique tone that suggested a significant event was approaching.
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