The New Robe

After leaving the mansion, I walked behind James for a while.

“Here we are, sir. This shop is run by an old friend of mine; the quality is excellent.”

It was a clothing shop located about twenty minutes from the mansion. I stepped inside, following James.

“Welcome… wait, if it isn’t James. It’s been a long time.”

“Long time no see. I’d like you to pick out some clothes for my master today.”

“Ho, I heard the master of the house had changed, but he’s quite young.”

The shopkeeper turned his gaze toward me as he spoke.

“I’m Vim Abel,” I said, giving a slight nod.

“I know. You’re already a celebrity in this country. I’m Daryl. Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you too.”

Vim shook hands with Daryl. When one is certified as an S-rank adventurer, their name is made public. The names of S-rank adventurers—of whom there are only a handful in the world—spread in an instant.

“So, what are you looking for today?”

“A robe similar to this one would be a help. I also want a few shirts and pairs of pants.”

Vim took off the robe he was wearing and showed it to Daryl.

“This has been specially processed. Did you do this yourself?”

“You noticed? Yes, that’s right. I’ve imbued it with magic myself.”

Vim’s robe was cast with an enchantment for resistance against magical attacks. He hadn’t expected many people to be able to see through it.

“I’ve been in the clothing business for a long time. I’ve reached the point where I can tell if something has been enchanted. I’ll bring out something similar, so please wait a moment.”

With that, Daryl headed to the back of the shop.

“How about this one?”

After a while, Daryl returned holding a single robe.

“May I try it on?”

“Of course, sir.”

Vim took the robe from Daryl and slipped it on.

“Yeah, it’s light and feels good.”

He felt there wasn’t a significant difference compared to the one he was currently wearing.

“I’ll take this one. Please.”

“Thank you. The shirts and pants are over here.”

From there, he decided to purchase several shirts and pairs of pants as well.

“I’ll wrap these up for you then.”

Vim paid the bill and received a paper bag containing the clothes. It turned out to be quite expensive, but he couldn’t compromise on the robe.

“Thank you very much.”

“The pleasure is mine. We look forward to your continued patronage.”

With that, Vim left the shop with James.

“Thanks for introducing me to a good shop. I got some great things thanks to you.”

“Not at all, sir. I am merely glad to be of service.”

“Well, shall we head back for now?”

“As you command.”

Vim and James decided to return to the mansion for the time being.