CHAPTER 32: THE PEOPLE WHO STAY

To me, it just seems like greed—selling clothes this expensive! Imagine, the inn I’m staying at doesn’t even cost this much, and I’m still eating there. Don’t ask me why."

"Well, don’t say it’s greed," Cedric replied calmly. "Otherworldly clothes are expensive. All the garments I sell are made from materials introduced in the First Era. That’s why they cost so much. But... whatever you say. Now, try it on."

Nolan picked up the dark blue hoodie and slipped it on. As he adjusted it, he thought, Wow... this really looks good on me.

"Well, it does suit you," Celia and Linda said in unison.

Then the two of them handed Cedric 10 gold coins.

"Are you not going to buy more? You can get as much as you want," Celia asked.

"This is fine," Cedric replied.

As they prepared to leave, Nolan spoke up. "Now, Cedric , I want to ask you something."

Cedric turned to him. "Well, what is it you want to ask?"

"I want to know the best way for someone to train and grow stronger without harming people or the environment," Nolan said. "Is there a safer place than the forest?"

"Yes," Cedric said. "The dungeon is perfect. It has creatures like giant rats, red orcs, undead, hydras... fighting them will definitely make you stronger. The forest also has powerful beings. One in particular—the Fenri—they are massive, white beasts that can communicate telepathically. If an adult sees one, it’s best to bow your head. Otherwise... you’re dead."

"Where can I find these Fenri?" Nolan asked.

"They’re not usually around this time of year," Cedric explained.

"Alright, then. I think we should take our leave," Nolan said.

"Thank you for your purchase," Cedric replied.

"You’re very welcome," Celia and Linda added as they followed Nolan back to the inn.

As they reached the inn, Nolan, Linda, and Celia stepped inside—and immediately noticed Mira staring at them from afar, a strange, almost mischievous smile on her face.

Why is she smiling like that? She might be up to no good, Nolan thought.

He leaned closer to Linda and Celia. "Ignore her. If we don’t acknowledge her, it’s like she doesn’t exist."

But Mira slowly made her way toward them, her smile never fading. She stopped directly in front of Nolan, tilting her head slightly.

"What do you want? And why are you smiling like that?" Nolan asked, frowning.

"I heard you defeated King Gollem... all five of them," Mira said casually.

Nolan’s eyes narrowed. "How dare you know that? You’re not even an adventurer."

Mira shrugged lightly. "Information spreads fast—like wildfire, or a burning bush," she said.

Linda crossed her arms, her voice sharp. "Don’t disturb our master. We don’t have time for this."

Mira’s eyes widened slightly in surprise. "Oh my... when did you start talking? You’re always so quiet. Seems like you all have gotten closer."

"That’s all you have to say? If so, I’m going to move on," Nolan replied, turning to leave.

"Wait, wait! I want to say something," Mira called, stepping closer.

"What is it?" Nolan asked, already annoyed.

"Since you’ve gotten richer from defeating Gollem... I know you’re rich now," Mira said, her grin widening. "You’re going to pay me five times what you paid me last time—since we’re friends."

"What? Hell no, that’s not happening," Nolan said firmly.

"You’re going to pay me 15 gold coins," Mira insisted.

"Yeah... in your dreams," Nolan muttered, tossing her aside lightly before walking away, ignoring her protests as she continued shouting behind him.

Finally, they reached their room. Nolan collapsed onto his bed and let out a long sigh.

"Peace... at last," he muttered, closing his eyes.

Linda moved closer to Nolan, who felt a wave of relief wash over him.

"Master... I see how you were staring at that adventurer named Nymera," Linda said softly.

Nolan’s face immediately flushed red. "Oh... I’m sorry. I didn’t realize I was staring so much," he muttered, embarrassed.

Linda smiled reassuringly. "It’s fine. You can stare at me too. I’m just as... big as she is," she said, teasing.

"What?" Nolan thought, completely flustered. Wait... what is she trying to tell me? My body... can’t handle this! His face burned bright red, and he froze.

"Master... Master, is anything wrong?" Linda asked, concern flickering in her eyes.

Oh, it’s fine... or maybe I’m just misunderstanding what she’s trying to say, Nolan thought. "Okay... I’ve heard you," he finally said.

Then Celia approached him, her expression gentle. "Master, I saw your face change when that weird guy touched my hand," she said.

Nolan lowered his head, his embarrassment deepening. She even noticed... I really mucked up, he thought. "Even if I reacted... in a way I shouldn’t have, you don’t need to worry about it. I can never follow anyone else. You’re the only ones I want to be with," he said quietly.

Nolan’s mind wandered. Since I came to this world, these two incredible ladies have been with me. When I first met them, they were the only ones who chose to stay. And now... they want to repay me? For what? I’ve grown so used to having them around... even if they left now, it would feel unbearable. They’re the first girls I’ve ever truly talked to, shared moments with... even though I’ve never stayed in the same room with them. Every moment with them has been special...

"Please... I don’t know why you chose to stay with me, but I’ve said this before—you don’t owe me anything. You’ve already done so much. And if you want to leave because you think I’m not fun... or not as handsome as that Alaric guy..." Nolan’s expression fell, sadness creeping in.

Linda grabbed his hand firmly. "Don’t say that again, Master. You’re the coolest person I know. And I want to be by your side. We elves... I finally see the person I want to be with. You’re strong... stronger than anyone else. That’s why I want to be with you," she said sincerely.

"Yes," Celia added, nodding. "She’s right. And I also want to be with you. Even if you’re not as handsome as Alaric... to me, you’re cooler than him."

Nolan’s heart raced. She even agreed... that he’s more handsome than me? But looking at their faces, he could see their sincerity. They truly wanted to stay with him. I wish I could stay with them forever...

"Thank you... thank you for wanting to stay with me," Nolan whispered, a small smile breaking through his flushed, embarrassed face.