"The other one is proof of the transfer into the [Takemikazuchi Familia] account."
Soon.
When the setting sun had sunk completely below the horizon and night had just fallen.
The group was once again standing on the steps outside the Guild's main entrance.
"Th-this is..."
"So much money..."
Kashima clutched the parchment contract tightly in his hand, his steps unsteady and his eyes glazed over, as though he were walking on cotton.
Even the normally levelheaded Mikoto, Chigusa, and Asuka wanted to pinch themselves to check whether they were dreaming.
This income.
Not only resolved the [Takemikazuchi Familia]'s urgent financial crisis.
It even...
Covered the substantial repair costs for the shrine back in the Far East.
"Lord Haimo!"
The moment he came back to his senses.
Without any hesitation.
Kashima led Mikoto and the others in turning around in unison and giving Haimo a deep, formal dogeza-style bow.
Their heads nearly struck the stone paving.
"Truly... thank you so very much!"
Kashima's voice was a little choked.
"With this money, we can..."
"All right, all right."
Haimo extended a hand in a gesture for them to rise, interrupting Kashima's tearful gratitude before he could finish.
"I already told you."
"This was a transaction."
"And compensation you earned through your work."
"Adventurers may compete with one another, but they also help one another."
At that point.
Haimo smiled, his gaze seemingly casually flicking toward the katana at Mikoto's waist.
"Speaking of which."
"Your patron god and I are something of acquaintances."
"Back in Heaven, Takemikazuchi was a War God who spent all day shouting about conquering everything through martial prowess. He's a pretty decent fellow."
"Huh-?!"
"You're friends with Lord Takemikazuchi, Lord Haimo?!"
Kashima and Mikoto abruptly raised their heads, their faces filled with shock.
They had been in Orario