In any case, aside from where Jiu Ming lived and the surrounding area, everything else in the Mysterious Shop felt as though they were standing in the wilderness. "Is there no one else here?"
After realizing he could not find anyone else, Negi could not help asking.
"Other people? No. There aren't really any native residents here at the moment... but if you want to move in, I can offer you priority slots." Jiu Ming chuckled.
"There's clearly nobody here, so what priority slots are you talking about? I think you're just desperate for people to come here." Asuna gave a light snort, utterly dismissive of Jiu Ming's proposal.
"Who says there's nobody? Believe it or not, with just one word from me, twenty thousand twins could come here together as a group!?"
As though provoked by her disdainful expression, Jiu Ming spoke with considerable displeasure. "Come on, come on. Since you don't seem to have anything to do and are just wandering around here, help me with something."
"Payment." A sharp gleam flashed through Asuna's eyes. She immediately stepped before Jiu Ming and held out her palm, while glaring at Negi, who was still standing there dazed, as if furious at his failure to meet expectations. "Idiot, what are you spacing out for? Hurry up and ask for what you want!"
"...Actually, I can manage without you."
After pondering for a moment, Jiu Ming suddenly changed his tune.
"No! Once you've made a promise, you can't take it back!!"
Hey, was there really such a thing as being forcibly put to work?
"What exactly do you want us to do?"
Yue asked.
"Well, just help me sort some things. It'll be easy." Jiu Ming looked around, decided this spot was suitable, and waved to one side. To their dumbfounded