Chapter 68

Chapter 68: Encounter with the Dwarves!

I arrived at the dwarves' settlement before the sun had set.

I got there even earlier than I had anticipated.

I owe this to the effects of my [Physical Enhancement].

Using [Danger Detection], I could confirm the absence of any hostile intentions around me.

Though I've recently started doubting whether it's working accurately...

As I walked towards what seemed like an entrance, a dwarf holding a spear approached me.

"What business do you have here?"

Being a visitor, I could sense the wariness in their attitude.

"I am Takuto, a member of the human tribe. Could you call someone who is capable of conversation?"

The dwarf said, "Wait a moment," and walked toward the heart of the settlement.

After a short while, the same dwarf returned accompanied by two other dwarves.

"I am the clan leader, 'Lachis.' This is 'Sté.' We are here to listen to your request."

I explained to Lachis and Sté that I wished to mine gemstones in a location known to them, and that I would only take one gem back with me.

If they would allow me to mine, I promised to do everything within my power in return.

"Please wait a moment."

Lachis and Sté conferred with each other.

When their discussion concluded, Sté approached me.

"Will you be the sole miner?"

"I will be mining alongside another 'oni.' In reality, the oni will be the main miner, while I will provide assistance!"

Lachis and Sté exhibited an exaggerated reaction to the term "oni."

Considering that oni are considered an upper-tier race in this world, their response was quite natural.

"What will you offer us if we lend you the mining site?"

"I will try to accommodate your wishes as much as possible. For now, I will offer a few things, and if you have specific desires, please let me know."

I turned around and retrieved several items from my [Item Box], arranging them in a row.

Lachis and Sté examined the items and showed particular interest in one bottle.

I remembered that bottle—it was the alcohol from the goblin's treasure hoard.

"May we consume this?"

I nodded in response to Lachis' question.

Lachis took a sip, followed by Sté.

"How many of these do you possess?"

I inspected the contents of my [Item Box].

"Nineteen bottles remain."

"That should suffice. Please provide nine for now!"

The dwarves' dexterity was as skillful as I remembered—true connoisseurs of alcohol.

I handed over nine bottles, informed them of my intention to return the following morning, and then concealed myself in the shadows, utilizing [Translocation] to return to my lodgings.

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"Welcome back, Master."

Shiro greeted me upon my return.

I could somewhat empathize with those who frequented maid cafes.

"I'm back."

Glancing at our progress, it became evident that we had made more headway than I had anticipated.

"Master, I have a minor inquiry..."

According to Kuro, we had a general sense of the sizes, but making fine adjustments without trying the garments on the individuals proved to be challenging.

Of course, that makes sense. Precise adjustments are difficult without physically fitting the clothes on the person, despite having approximate measurements.

Hold on a moment, though.

I faintly remembered from my past life seeing clothing being dressed onto mannequins and even embroidered on them on TV.

"Just give me a moment!"

I retrieved wood from my [Item Box], acquired the [Crafting] skill, and fashioned wooden figurines of Shiki and Murasaki's body shapes.

"These wooden figures should be of use for the sizes. Please employ them for adjustments."

"Thank you, Master. Your resourcefulness is truly commendable."

"I apologize for the urgency, but please do your best."

After conveying my request to Kuro and Shiro, I exited the room.