Chapter 99.2 - The Second Year at the Academy - Distant Mentor (2)
When I returned home, I pondered about [Magic Tool Creation] while sipping Shogun tea.
Currently, the easiest challenge seems to be accessories.
There's no limit in quantity, so as long as they soak in the solution, they can be permeated in large quantities.
However, there is a risk that accessories may become cursed magical items.
Rings reinforced for durability are an example, and accessories aren't useful for enhancements like slash or impact.
Similar things may happen with weapons, but the potential is lower than with accessories.
However, weapons are bulky.
The number that can be immersed in the alchemical solution is small, reducing the number of attempts.
As for armor, I don't even feel like preparing it.
I've purchased containers specifically for weapons.
Shaped like swords, they reduce the waste of the solution, and if I prepare a large quantity, I can maintain the current pace.
However, managing them seems quite difficult.
Ted and the others would be fine, but I can't ask Dana.
Moreover, blacksmithing takes time. Without working through the night, I can't prepare a large quantity.
"In that case—craft weapons as much as possible, and if there are spare magic stones, try accessories. Is that a safe choice?"
With a tentative conclusion, I went to the backyard.
Although there is space at home, the backyard is even larger.
If I build it in a corner, it won't interfere with forging, and if I make it a workshop, it would be even better.
I looked up and surveyed the old brick buildings, dilapidated wooden houses, and ruins-like apartment buildings.
Most buildings had their backs turned, so I didn't pay much attention.
The workers are mostly poor, and they rarely get to eat meat.
Unable to afford bread, they eat only porridge-like food.
Until recently, Dana was the same. I generously distributed Kudorga meat, and the excess that couldn't be eaten was given as a souvenir.
It seems to have left a considerable impression, and even after two days, the topic of the feast is still going on.
The ranchers, who wanted to express their gratitude, heard that Dana was acquainted with me.
Even the director joined in, and using high-quality parts from the slaughtered livestock, Dana and the others made stew.
Why the thanks are in the form of stew is a mystery, but there's no reason to refuse, so I accepted it sincerely.
"Well then, I'll gladly accept this."
Dana bowed and tried to leave, but I stopped her.
"Can I bother you for a bit more? I'm in a bit of a bind and want your advice."
"Me—?"
"No one is more qualified than you. Well, come in."
I invited her in, and while she felt apologetic, I made tea.
When the time was right, I asked for her opinion on the forge and workshop.
"What do you think? Would it be a nuisance to the neighborhood?"
"It would be a bother..."
I conveyed that I wanted Dana's honest opinion to Dana, who seemed somewhat uneasy.
After hesitating for a while, she answered hesitantly.
"I don't think anyone would complain to Alter-sama."
With that, she spoke with reluctance.
