[17] Residence

Aiden did a quick calculation and realized that out of the initial 500,000 valis given by the system, only 400,000 valis remained after less than two days.

Even though it was his second day in Orario and he had spent on food, equipment, and potions, he still wasn't entirely sure about the purchasing power of valis.

Recalling the exorbitant property prices back in his home, he couldn't help but sigh. He wondered what the housing prices in this otherworld would be like. Though he was confident that no one would dare swindle them with Hestia around, he still hoped the prices wouldn't be too outrageous.

"Damn, is it really this expensive? Does the author of Danmachi live in Tokyo? Trying to buy a house with 400,000 valis... I was indeed too naive." Aiden stared at the property ad in his hand, the long string of zeros driving home the importance of money once again. Truly, it was only when you needed it that you realized you didn't have enough.

It seemed renting was the only option left. Hopefully, 400,000 valis would be enough to rent a decent place.

Inside the Orario Northwest Street Real Estate Agency, Eiri Fowles had just brewed a cup of tea. She took a novel from her drawer and started reading.

At that moment, a clear yet resonant voice interrupted her.

Aiden noticed the girl, engrossed in her book, occasionally taking a sip of her tea. It was noon, and the agency was quiet with not a single customer in sight.

The sound of their footsteps from the door to the reception desk should have been loud enough, especially with Hestia's flip-flops, but the girl remained absorbed in her reading. Aiden couldn't help but envy her.

"Ahem, good afternoon, miss." He hoped addressing her as miss in Japanese wasn't offensive.

Eiri quickly put away her novel and looked up. In front of her stood a small girl in a white short skirt with a cute face that sharply contrasted with her impressive front armor.

Beside the girl was a tall young man dressed in a black coat adorned with intricate patterns, holding a magnificent sword with golden engravings. He had fair skin, silver hair, and striking blue eyes. His features were chiseled and handsome, and even his voice was pleasant.

Though unfortunately for Aiden, Eiri had a preference for men at least ten years older than herself. Despite her preferences, she was a bit nervous on her first day at work. She hastily put away her book and stood up. "T-This gentleman, and miss, how can I assist you today?"

"Ah, and may I know how to address both of you?" Eiri asked after a brief pause.

"Aiden Sparda, and this is my goddess, Hestia-sama." Aiden responded gently, noticing Eiri's nervousness. "I'm looking to rent a house. It doesn't need to be too big, just enough for five people. What do you think, Hestia?"

Hestia smiled, "I trust your judgment, Aiden-kun." She pondered over how much money Aiden had left but decided it was best for him to make the decision.

"Ah, Hestia-sama, Aiden-san, please have a seat." Eiri quickly led them to the reception area and gestured for them to sit on the sofa. "Please wait for a moment."

Aiden sat down calmly, waiting for Eiri to bring the necessary documents. It was his first time renting a house, and despite his outward composure, he felt a bit nervous. Hestia, for some reason, remained quiet as well.

"I forgot to ask about their other requirements. Stay calm, Eiri. Your senior isn't here; you've got to handle this on your own. You can do it!" Eiri muttered to herself, lightly tapping her cheeks to regain her composure. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly.

"What kind of house do you need? Besides accommodating five people, do you have any other specific requirements?" Eiri asked, carrying a large stack of documents as she approached.

Aiden considered his budget and replied, "It doesn't need to be luxurious, just something ordinary. Also, not too close to the bustling market."

Unsure of what 400,000 valis could get him, he decided it was better to look at cheaper options first and hope for the best.

Eiri regained her confidence and calmly responded, "There are many such houses, but the prices vary greatly. They are located in different areas of Orario, and the prices depend on the location."

Aiden internally sighed, wishing she would just provide the prices for each area. A training room or a large courtyard would be ideal, but he decided to be honest and not ask for anything extravagant.

"Miss, may I know your name?"

"Eiri Fowles, just call me Eiri."

Before Aiden could ask further, Eiri continued, "Would you like any refreshments? We have tea, juice, and coffee."

"I'll just have a glass of water, thank you." Aiden said with a smile.

"I'll have some tea." Hestia chimed in cheerfully.

"Please wait a moment." Eiri said before returning to the reception desk. She took out two ceramic cups, a can of tea, and a teapot, skillfully preparing the tea.

Soon enough, Eiri returned with two cups, placing them on the table in front of Aiden and Hestia. She turned to Hestia and said, "Hestia-sama, the tea needs a moment to cool down."

"Thank you." Hestia responded with a smile.

"Eiri-san, allow me to reintroduce myself. I am a member of the Hestia Familia. Although our familia currently consists only of Hestia and me, I'm looking to find a new residence for us. We don't have many requirements, just enough space for five people, a peaceful environment, and move-in ready, preferably with a large courtyard or a training room."

"Our familia is newly established, and Hestia herself recently descended to the Lower World, so our budget is not particularly residents." Aiden explained candidly, hoping for practical advice from Eiri.

"Aiden-san, Hestia-sama, how long do you intend to rent for?" Eiri asked, recalling her recent studies and getting straight to the point.

"What do you think, Hestia?" Aiden, clueless about such matters, turned to Hestia for input.

"You decide, Aiden-kun. There's no need to ask me, Eiri as well." Hestia remained silent, deferring to Aiden.

"Alright, Hestia." Aiden sighed, realizing he had to make the decision himself since he brought up the idea of renting.

"What's the shortest rental period available?" 

"The shortest lease is six months, Aiden-kun. You might want to consider these two properties: No. 233 Amor Square and No. 66 Daedalus Street." Eiri suggested, pulling out what she deemed the most suitable options from her stack of documents and presenting them to Aiden.

Eiri then confidently began her introduction of the properties.

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