"One hundred copper coins will do."
"Um, I don't have copper coins. How about I pay with gold? I'll take a few more."
Mel had not deliberately exchanged currency for this continent. Gold could be used directly anyway, and he did not spend much while traveling since he had stored plenty of food. When he treated others, there were also his senior brothers and sisters from the martial arts school.
"Sure, sir. Pick whatever you like; they're all the same price. I dare say my jewelry is the finest in the city. If you need gold jewelry made, you can come back to my shop with me."
"I won't need gold jewelry."
Mel picked out several more items, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
"What are you buying so much for?"
"To bring back as gifts. Master definitely can't use that many by herself," Mel teased.
After spending so long together, the atmosphere between them was no longer as ambiguous as it had been at the start. Instead, they were beginning to feel like an old married couple, and Kiriri habitually punched Mel.
Given Kiriri's status, she was destined not to hold much respect for Mel, nor did she possess any unhealthy desire for him. What she had was simply the most ordinary sort of affection, along with a sense of taboo born from betraying her status.
Being with her like this felt as real as having an ordinary little girlfriend.
The two wandered along the streets, stopping now and then, until they finally arrived at a restaurant. Mel caught the rich scent of mushroom soup.
Only dried mushrooms should have remained in this season, but soup made from such mushrooms was the most fragrant. Fresh ones lacked that distinctive aroma.
"Master, let's have dinner here." Mel pulled Kiriri into the