Chapter 22: Shopping②

"Hmm..."

I was deliberating among the numerous rings on display.

I had been mulling over this for about thirty minutes.

The reason I was so indecisive was that the selection was surprisingly good. Items that I had only seen drop in dungeons in the game were being sold at the shop. It must be that adventurers who obtained these rings in dungeons sold them here.

While they didn’t have any of the ultimate equipment rings, they did have quite a few good ones. That’s why I was having a hard time deciding.

"Alright, I’ve made my choice!"

I picked out two rings that greatly boost MP and one ring that enhances fire magic, and then promptly proceeded to pay.

I then gave the three rings to Celia, who seemed oddly nervous.

"Celia, I’d like you to accept these. It’s my way of showing my feelings."

"Um, there are three of them, though...?"

"Equip these silver rings on both hands first, and then try equipping this red ring. After that, we’ll test them out in the dungeon."

"Test...?"

Celia had a somewhat disappointed look on her face for some reason. However, I felt that an experiment was necessary.

In the game, you could only equip one ring on each hand. But in reality, it's possible to wear rings on all ten fingers. The question is whether all the rings’ effects will activate if you wear them all. This is something that needs to be tested.

"What should I do...?"

Saying that, I resumed scrutinizing the rings. I didn’t notice Celia’s deep sigh.

"Thank you very much! We look forward to your next visit!"

We were sent off by the beaming shopkeeper and left the jewelry store.

When it comes to equipment, it's easy to think of weapons and armor, but rings, necklaces, and earrings are also crucial. In fact, for a magic user in the backline, these accessories can be even more beneficial.

"You’ve bought quite a lot. Was it really alright for me to get these?"

Celia’s earrings swayed as she spoke.

"It’s fine, it’s fine."

I gave Celia primarily equipment that increases MP maximum. I debated whether to go for gear that enhances spell power, but I decided that it would be better for Celia to focus on using a lot of magic and increasing her mastery. As her mastery improves, her spell power will naturally increase as well.

You might ask about MP potions.

True, MP potions are available. But people can’t consume medicine in large quantities. This isn’t a game. I’m concerned about Celia’s well-being.

MP potions should be reserved for emergencies.

Moreover, unlike in games where you can carry infinite items, we need to be practical. Of course, MP potions are a must, but so are lunches and HP potions. We don’t have a healer with us, after all.

Actually, Celia can use light magic and healing spells, but she seems to be keeping that hidden, so HP potions are definitely necessary.

As I think about this, my load just keeps getting heavier.

How did game protagonists manage to carry such a huge amount of items?

And for my own gear, I primarily chose equipment that enhances agility. I’m planning to take on the role of a front-line defender to protect Celia, aiming to become a dodge tank.

"Alright, let’s head back to the dungeon—"

Growl!

My stomach rumbled. It’s a bit embarrassing.

Honestly, this body has such poor fuel efficiency!

"Before heading out, let's grab a bite to eat... Celia, would you like something to eat too?"

"Yes, I’d be happy with a light meal."

"Where should we eat?"

Looking around, it seems that most of the dining establishments are taverns, and many are closed at the moment.

"Cheap, cheap here!"

"How about some freshly baked Liebkuchen?"

"These Pommes are hot and crispy!"

"Hey there, how about some Würst? Sounds good, right?"

Instead, there are numerous food stalls around. Each one is giving off a delicious aroma that makes my stomach growl.

"Let’s try eating at one of these stalls today."

"Understood."

It feels a bit like a festival with all these stalls. I suddenly have a craving for yakisoba, takoyaki, and grilled squid. But, sadly, they aren’t available here...

"What will you have, Celia?"

"I’ll have some Liebkuchen."

"I think I’ll get some too. Let’s queue up together."

"Yes."

Liebkuchen is a street food similar to hashed potatoes. While in Japan you might enjoy it with salt or ketchup, here it’s commonly served with fruit jams or sauces, giving it a flavor profile somewhere between hashed potatoes and pancakes.

I also picked up some Pommes, which are like French fries, and of course, I couldn't forget the national dish, Würst. We ate as we walked around.

Celia, walking beside me, seemed to be genuinely enjoying herself. Seeing her like this made me feel happier too.

"Celia, you look like you're having fun?"

"Yes. Is this what they call eating while strolling? I’ve never done this before, so it’s very refreshing."

Celia used to be a princess, after all. It makes sense that she might not have had much experience with this kind of casual dining.

I was a bit worried that it might seem uncouth, but it’s great to see that Celia is enjoying it.

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