Chapter Eight

"T-t-thank you so much...you saved me." The female cat person said to Muichiro.

His head tilted slightly, his gaze shifting to meet hers once more. While he was no stranger to expressions of gratitude, there was something in her tone that resonated with him.

The simple act of helping had sparked a connection, however fleeting, and it left a trace of warmth within his otherwise blank soul.

A soft smile played at the corners of the cat girl's lips as she extended her gratitude. Muichiro's response was a subtle nod, a gesture that conveyed both acknowledgement and understanding.

Then Muichiro turned his attention to the now dirty Jagamarukun. Without hesitation, he picked it up from the floor and was going to bite into it, but a soft and small hand stopped him from doing so.

"???" Muichiro looked at her in confusion.

"Why are eating that Jagamarukun, it's all dirty and filthy, you can get an upset stomach if you eat it.

Muichiro looked at her and then the Jagamarukun." Moon, said that there are many beings in the multiverse that doesn't get to eat...so I shouldn't waste good food, especially when someone took the time to make it for me."

*Ba-Dump*

May looked at Muichiro with wide eyes. She lowered her head, her eyes being hidden by her beige hat.

Of course, as a chef, she appreciated that kind of sentiment, but also as a chef, she couldn't just stand there and let him eat something that could upset his body.

"I understand, and I don't know who Moon is or where this multiverse you speak of is, but she must have also taught you not to eat rotten or contaminated food right."

Muichiro pondered her question, looking back at all the lessons Moon had taught him there was one where she told him something similar.

Muichiro nodded and May let out a sigh of relief before grabbing Jagamarukun and placing it in a dead flower pot.

As there was nothing else to do and everyone seemed to be safe Muichiro turned to leave, but her voice followed him, the invitation she extended catching him off guard.

Her offer of a meal at the Hostess of Fertility, the establishment where she worked. It was an unexpected proposition, one that caused him to hesitate for a moment before considering it.

With a barely perceptible nod, Muichiro indicated his agreement, his response a wordless acknowledgement of her invitation.

"Yatta~Nya, alright follow me then, I'll lead the way."

The enthusiasm in her voice as she accepted his answer was infectious, and as they made their way to the establishment, he remained measured and unhurried.

Their footsteps echoed in the bustling streets, the energy of the city surrounding them. Muichiro's gaze remained detached, his attention split between his surroundings and the path ahead.

While his demeanour appeared impassive, there was a subtle shift in the air, an undercurrent of something that he couldn't quite ignore.

As they walked, the exchange of words flowed freely between them. May's curiosity was evident, her questions punctuating the rhythmic cadence of their conversation.

Her inquiry about his name drew a response that was as concise as it was straightforward. "Muichiro," he answered simply, his voice carrying a calm assurance.

Her next question was equally met with his measured response. "A newcomer," he confirmed, his words carrying a hint of intrigue. The world of adventurers was still new to him, and he navigated it with a sense of quiet observation.

...

Muichiro and May strolled through the vibrant streets of the south side, their steps echoing a shared experience that lingered between them.

The Hostess of Fertility awaited them, its doors closed but holding the promise of a meal shared between newfound acquaintances.

The midday sun bathed the city in a warm glow, casting a welcoming embrace over the surroundings.

The establishment May led him to was not bustling with activity at the moment. Since it was still midday a lot of the pubs weren't open yet, as adventurers were still in the dungeons.

It was named the Hostess of Fertility, an inviting name that seemed to evoke a sense of warmth.

As May struggled with the ingredients she carried, Muichiro's instincts kicked in. Without a word, he reached out to relieve her of the burden, the act both instinctual and natural.

The surprised look in her eyes was met with his enigmatic gaze, his expression calm and composed.

As they walked side by side, May's inquiries continued, her genuine interest evident in her tone.

...

Muichiro and May entered the establishment, greeted by the scent of delicacies and oak wood.

As they stepped inside, the pub's interior stretched out before them, a cosy haven yet to be filled with patrons.

The aura within held an inviting energy.

May directed Muichiro to place the box of ingredients in a corner, and he complied, his movements graceful as he settled into a chair.

May assured him that she would prepare a meal to express her gratitude. With a nod, Muichiro acknowledged her offer, his gaze sweeping across the cosy atmosphere.

It was impossible not to notice the corner of the room where broken tables and chairs sat, seemingly forgotten. Curiosity piqued his interest, prompting him to investigate further.

Approaching the damaged furniture, his fingers retrieved a selection of tools and knives from the depths of his haori.

His actions carried a sense of purpose, guided by instincts born from a past life. Taking a seat on the floor, he set to work, his hands moving with precision and care.

The sound of his work filled the room, accompanied by the quiet rustling of fabric as a presence entered the room.

Observing his efforts, the woman couldn't help but find herself intrigued by the stranger's skilful repair.

Her voice resonated with amusement and admiration, the words a playful observation. "Well, now aren't you quite skilled?" she remarked, her tone carrying a mixture of surprise and genuine interest.

Muichiro continued his task, focused and diligent, his mind immersed in the art of restoration.

The minutes passed in a blur, and when he finally turned to face the room, he was met with the imposing figure of the woman. Her voice echoed through the air once more, her words accompanied by a hearty chuckle.

He met her gaze with an unwavering calm, his inquisitive expression a contrast to her formidable presence. "Who are you?" he inquired, his voice steady as he tilted his head slightly to meet her eyes.

The woman's form exuded power, yet beyond the strength that radiated from her, there was a depth that piqued Muichiro's curiosity. The aura surrounding her held both authority and warmth that defied her imposing stature.