New Equipment

After training for a few hours with his new Magic, Ryuu felt a strain as that was a sign for him to stop.

While Luna went to the Dungeon, he chose to stay in the Mansion since he had to train Haruhime, though he didn't miss the fire of determination in her eyes burning fiercely. She saw Ryuu's new magic and knew this would only widen the gap between them, though her resolve didn't waver. On the contrary, it was heightened.

'They grow so fast'.

He had seen her agonizing over her weakness not too long ago, yet a few simple words from him were enough to change her mindset, which he was glad for. Ryuu believed true beauty lay in one's ability to shine with their own light and not just by relying on others or in their physical appearance.

Of course, not everyone was like Luna. If a normal adventurer saw his absurd rate of progression, they would think their entire life was a lie.

A few days soon passed. Ryuu took Luna and Haruhime to Tsubaki, the two finally having proper armor to protect themselves in the Dungeon.

As Haruhime looked over the armor that was presented to her, she couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The sleek and elegant pieces were crafted with a perfect balance. Made from a lightweight yet sturdy alloy, it could withstand heavy blows and protect her from harm without weighing her down.

The chest piece was designed to accentuate her natural form, with a curved shape that fit snugly against her body while also allowing for ease of movement. The armor was adorned with intricate patterns and designs inspired by traditional motifs, such as cherry blossoms, giving it a graceful and refined look that was perfectly aligned with the kimono she wore.

The arms and legs were protected by articulated vambraces and greaves, which allowed for a full range of motion while also providing excellent protection for the joints.

Overall, this armor was designed to be both functional and beautiful. It was tailored to her unique needs and characteristics, making it the perfect armor for her.

While Haruhime felt awe, Luna was no less surprised as her own armor was even grander. This was necessary as she would soon be the one to lead the masses while he explored the Lower Floors.

It was unique compared to Haruhime's since the back of the armor featured a pair of large, dragon-like wings that could be extended or retracted at will. The wings were made of a lightweight yet durable material, and could be used for both flight and as a shield with the aid of [Magic]. Such was the special feature he wanted for her. The wings were also adorned with intricate patterns and designs, adding an extra layer of beauty and elegance to the armor.

Both armors are crafted to accentuate each race's natural beauty and power, but Luna's armor has a more regal and majestic appearance. At the same time, Haruhime's is focused on its overall gracefulness and ease of movement.

"I present to you my beauties, [Apsaras] and [Hôshô]!"

She grandly announced their names, though Luna ignored her.

"Thank you, Master. I'll be sure to use it well"

Although her face remained stoic, Ryuu knew she was extremely happy. Since their wings would not manifest in this world for some reason, they lost the ability to fly, though that was not a particular concern for both of them.

However, since she was 'born' only a few days ago, Luna could not possibly ignore this issue. She thought she could hide that slight discomfort, yet his Master was always a step further than her…

While he didn't have such grand requests for Haruhime's armor, Tsubaki explained how she couldn't bear to let it grow ordinary. In fact, she worked day and night to give a special feature to it as well.

It could allow once per day to teleport a few meters away. This ability was not as grand as permitting flight, but it was still a huge gain that could save her life in a moment of crisis…

"Of course, I don't expect you to pay more. Consider it a token of friendship."

She did it for her personal satisfaction, this meaning it would not sit well with her to expect him to pay more. Though his answer surprised her.

"Do not insult your own work or sell it for cheap. That ability could allow my Familia member to live a day more, and you expect me to accept it for free and say thanks? Tell me how much the difference is. I'll make money and pay you up."

He was not interested in owning such a 'debt' to her. Ryuu was extremely grateful for her consideration, even if that wasn't why this occurred, yet the indirect disrespect towards her creations irritated him.

She didn't reply, only staring at him for a few seconds before she sighed.

"Alright, stop looking at me like that. I'll make sure to send the bill to your mansion…I also expect someone so righteous to always look for me when you need anything."

Tsubaki gave Ryuu a special card that he could show to the Hephaestus Familia members. Once they saw this, they would recognize him as a VIP customer, allowing him to call for her anytime.

He accepted it with a smile. Since he was not interested in wealth, throwing them away in exchange for safety was good enough for him.

The two discussed for a bit more before the three of them left, this leaving Tsubaki alone in the room, though that didn't last too long.

"…You're here?"

A tall adult male with short, spiky red hair and dark blue eyes entered the room, though once he saw who was there, he immediately went to leave…

"Hey, Welf! Did you finally finish that sword? I was about to come to check on you since it was taking too much time"

Her somewhat serious attitude disappeared as she closed the distance between them.

"…Tch."

He hated her for these antics. Although he had leftover gratitude from the many times she helped him out, the fact she also played with him a lot angered him, though there was not much he could do since she was the Captain of their Familia…

"Don't 'Tch' me. It's been a while since we last talked!"

She slapped his shoulder with moderate strength, though that almost broke it…

"…I wish you could still be busy."

He whispered, though Tsubaki ignored it.

"I will have a nice patron soon. Do you know of the Unique Level One?"

She asked as he thought about it with a pensive expression

"Oh, the level 1 adventurer that joined the Hestia Familia a few days ago? How could he already afford a commission for your work?"

He was shocked. Although he did not care much about rumors, even he heard them as everyone in the Hephaestus Familia heard a rumor or two about him…

"I do not know the details. What I know is that strength speaks louder than words. That man is really strong, I'm sure of it. Contrary to you, he must use everything he has to achieve his goals."

She stared at him with a scrutinizing eye, which was not effective in making him change his mind as he snorted.

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Notes:

- Please vote on my discord server. There is an ongoing poll related to the "Harem" matter.