Chapter 27

Dolf stepped slightly toward me and bowed his head.

“I wish to offer my apologies for this incident. However, I ask that you let me explain myself!”

So, there was a reason after all, huh? But regarding an explanation, I could only say it depended on the content, though I figured I’d listen for now.

“Fine. But keep it short.”

Dolf took a deep breath before speaking.

“When I saw your hides, I thought they were truly beautiful. I could tell at a glance that they were A-rank or S-rank materials, the likes of which are rarely seen in markets or at the guild. They were superlative items. I had heard the owner was a Tamer, so I thought I could make it work somehow by letting my money do the talking.”

…Were my hides really that good? Even with my amateur skinning?

That question popped into my mind, but the story continued.

“However, you told me you wouldn’t sell. You said I couldn’t be trusted… For some reason, I felt a rage I couldn’t suppress. I felt as though you had seen right through me while I was playing at being King in imitation of my brother.”

“That’s enough, this is getting too long and tedious. In short, what did you want to do with my hides?”

Having been cut off mid-speech, he seemed to lose his rhythm as his eyes darted around for a moment before he answered.

“I wanted to create, too. I wanted to make the ultimate armor using the ultimate materials.”

Hah—is this what happens to all craftsmen when they see good materials? Dowal also bit the bait hard when I showed him Grandfather’s fangs.

“What about your skill? I assume you can’t even process monster materials with halfway-decent techniques, right?”

“My brother’s armor is one of the pieces of equipment I created.”

What? The Hero Dwarf’s armor was made by the younger brother!?

“And your thoughts on the armor?”

“I’ve lost count of how many times this armor has saved my life. Plus, it allows for great mobility in my limbs.”

“But this time it’s leather?”

“There should be no problem. Dolf is dexterous; more so than I am, even.”

So his ability wasn’t an issue either… In that case, I’d try requesting the finest possible product.

“Then let me state my conditions. One: you will put your all into making the finest possible item. Two: if any materials are lacking, tell me and I’ll go hunt them. Three: the two of you as brothers will make it. That’s all. What are your conditions?”

That was all from me. So why were they both blinking in surprise?

“The first point is a given, but what I don’t understand is the third. Are you saying you’re commissioning the both of us?”

“Isn’t it obvious? Since you’re both in the same place anyway, it’s less of a hassle, and it feels like a better piece of equipment would result if you did it together.”

“Does that include the fangs as well?”

“Obviously. I’m entrusting my life to the both of you.”

If I put it that way, it would be hard for them to refuse, plus it sounded pretty cool.

“Is it truly alright for me to be involved as well?”

“I’ve commissioned the both of you. Also, carry yourself with some dignity. You’re the King’s brother, aren’t you?”

I was getting tired of the constant bowing; I felt like this kind of relationship needed to be between equals.

“Then, my condition is first to secure a flame. We need to put the flames of a significant monster into the furnace.”

“Understood. And you, Dolf?”

“As for me, there are no problems at the moment.”

“Then I’m counting on you.”

And so, the production of my equipment began.