I hate being in pain, so I think I'll make a full defense build

Chapter 509

Itai no wa Iya nanode Bōgyo-Ryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai to Omoimasu 509

Defense Specialization and the 4^th Floor Area (3)

Maple and her friends met up, showing their results at the Guild Home.

“I didn’t buy anything wrong!”

“As expected, both of you have keen eyes.”

“Only because of the memo! But it was fun. I didn’t spend much time shopping.”

Not only was Sally able to obtain a Unique Series of equipment from the beginning, she also seldom used the consumable items sold at stores.

Moreover, unless she was with Maple, Sally also rarely bought non-combat clothing or interior items. Due to that, she was able to make a refreshing change.

“Now I can complete the quest. Let’s see… Now I’ve accumulated a certain number of points again. In the 4^th Floor Area, it’s like a pass.” (Kasumi)

“Does that mean you’ve amassed a good number of points?” (Maple)

“That’s right. Although there’s no new areas like the 4^th Floor that you can explore, the number of quests may increase when that happens.” (Kasumi)

“I see, I see.” (Maple)

“So, the quests will be released according to your progress.” (Sally)

“Yes, that’s how it is. If you have time, I’d like to explore the area with the two of you. We might find something other than the newly generated quests.”

Since the number of people and items affected the occurrence of quests, it wouldn’t be surprising if there were things that could only be found by going with three members.

In the first place, if they could find a quest on their own, they wouldn’t have to meet that day.

“Sure. Depending on the quest, I might be able to help again.” (Sally)

“Please show us around!” (Maple)

“Leave it to me. There are some interesting shops.” (Kasumi)

“I’m looking forward to it.” (Maple)

They should do what they can while the three of them are still together.

Thus, the three of them set out into town, sightseeing while looking for the next quest.

After the three left the Guild Home, Kasumi led the group as they moved through the Japanese townscape.

“Kasumi, were you surprised when you first arrived? When we went inside, it was already night!” (Maple)

“Yes, I was really surprised. But… I was also thrilled. After all, the enigmatic atmosphere of the 4^th Floor is further accentuated at night.” (Kasumi)

“This isolated feeling… It’s like one big dungeon.” (Maple)

“That might not be far from the truth. Okay, let’s start by gathering information.”

Kasumi glanced at the two of them and went into a store. When the two of them followed suit, they saw many demons (youkai) lined up around the table, engaged in chit-chat.

“Let’s take a seat, too. There’s space in the back.”

At Kasumi’s urging, the three of them sat around a table in the back and looked over the menu placed on the table.

“After we order, let’s wait for a while. This is one of the spots to gather information. Besides, the rice flour dumplings (dango) and green tea (matcha) are delicious.” (Kasumi)

“Hee… Then let’s do it right away!” (Maple)

“I’ll do the same. At times like this, it’s best to follow the recommendations of those you know.”

Even if they didn’t know how to gather information, they could still look at the menu and order something tasty.

A little while later, five skewers with three dango stuck in each appeared in front of Maple and Sally, ranging from the standard sweet soy sauce glaze to slightly unusual ones, on a beautiful vermillion-painted stand.

While savoring it, the two looked around when the time arrived. Since they were gathering information, there must be something they could do.

““Ah.””

When they turned around, they saw icons appearing above some of the customers, and they quickly realized that those were NPCs from which they could acquire information.

“If you order and wait for a while, you’ll be able to gather information. It’s not that particularly difficult to find, but you won’t be able to do it by focusing solely on field strategy.” (Kasumi)

“That’s true. Did you find this place on your own, Kasumi?” (Maple)

“No, someone else did during their exploration. I managed to use it when the chance arrived, which was a relief.” (Kasumi)

“If it’s me, I’ll totally miss the fact that I need to order on top of looking inside.”

“But for those who like sightseeing… No, someone like Maple is bound to find this kind of thing relatively easily.” (Sally)

“It looks like we have some new information. I’m going to ask them some questions.” (Kasumi)

“Got it.” (Maple)

“We can just ask Kasumi about it later.” (Sally)

While the two were waiting at their seats, Kasumi spoke to a muscular demon and returned.

“I heard something interesting, but… It seems that I’d require your help.” (Kasumi)

“Are we going to fight?” (Maple)

“Got it. But first, we have to wait until Iz is finished with the equipment.” (Sally)

“Where is it going to be?” (Maple)

“It’s another dimension, where the force of gravity is at work. Unlike the one that can change direction, as the two of you have encountered several times, this one disables projectiles. They won’t be able to fly or bounce too far.” (Kasumi)

“Ack…” (Maple)

“T-that seems difficult.” (Kasumi)

“For me and Sally, those conditions aren’t compatible with our fighting style. If possible, I’d like to borrow Maple’s power.” (Sally)

Unlike the two, who relied on mobility as the core of their attack, Maple could fight with a solid stance.

Although she couldn’t use her specialty long-ranged attacks due to gravity, Kasumi and Sally would be able to join in the attack if they could safely close the distance using [Loving Sacrifice].

“Of course!” (Maple)

“Thank you. In that case, I’ll make plans for that and go around a few other towns today.” (Kasumi)

“I wouldn’t be surprised if there are more quests.” (Maple)

“That’s just how it is.” (Sally)

They had a good start in finding a new quest, but that was still their first stop of the day. If there was an area that was more difficult than the supergravity area that Kasumi just found, they’d like to prioritize completing that area. Strolling around town was essential in order to increase their options.

After enjoying the rest of the dumplings, Maple and her friends set out for another walk.

***

It started off well, stumbling upon quests, but after that, they were unable to find any new quests. Most of the time, they were sightseeing.

“Do you like it?” (Sally)

“Hehe.” (Maple)

Maple bought black geta with a red thong and a purple Japanese umbrella. They were enjoying the town to the fullest while equipped with items that resembled the Unique Series.

“Our next stop is here. You can look forward to this one.”

What stood out from the building in front of them was the chimney from which the smoke was billowing, and the old tools such as a pickaxe that were propped up next to the entrance. The size and quietness of the building gave a completely different impression from the first place they went to, where large customers gathered.

“Another Item Shop? Or…” (Maple)

“You’ll know it when you see it.” (Kasumi)

When Kasumi opened the door, the scenery inside jumped into view. Clanking sound echoed as the iron was struck, emitting a red glow as it transformed into a blade. An old man hit the iron while wearing a mask.

“A blacksmith?” (Maple)

“Wow, it’s quite different from Iz’s workshop.” (Sally)

“That’s because Iz is versatile.” (Kasumi)

Iz could create items such as potions, cultivate plants such as medicinal herbs, and make not only armor but also clothes like the ones she made for Mai and Yui.

In comparison, that workshop specialized in blacksmithing. Was the one displayed on the wall a finished product? The weapon gleamed brightly, reflecting the blazing flames, and was decorated with intricate decorations, displaying the skill of the blacksmith.

“Now, wait and see…”

““…?””

Sensing that Kasumi was anticipating something, they both waited for the reaction of the blacksmith—the only NPC in the room, and was probably the key person.

After a while, the blacksmith finished his work and glanced towards them, still wearing his mask.

“You guys… have something interesting.”

Hearing those words, the three of them stared at each other and nodded slightly, fully expecting that.

“There’s something I’d like to ask you. I wasn’t sure who to ask, but I’m sure you’re capable enough.”

After the old man said that, an icon suddenly popped up—a sign for them to accept the quest.

“Of course, I won’t force you to do it. I don’t care who I ask, provided that they can do it for me. If you’re here, you’re here for me, right? Depending on the outcome of the request, I may be able to lend a hand or be flexible.”

Even without such conditions, the three of them had already made up their minds.

‘Accept any quests they can.’

—Such was the shortcut to completing the 4^th Floor Area.

After the three of them had accepted the quest, they could feel the eyes of the old man staring at them from behind the mask.

“Now that you’ve received it, I’m looking forward to it. I’m also in a hurry.”

After saying that, the man returned to his blacksmith work.

“What is the quest about?” (Maple)

“It’s most likely going to be a battle.” (Kasumi)

“Then let me help you with that too!” (Maple)

“Thanks, you’re a great help.” (Kasumi)

“We have to work together to reach the Demon King!” (Maple)

“Indeed. Thanks to Kasumi, the 4^th Floor Area seems to be progressing well, so it might be a good idea to go there first.” (Sally)

Regardless of anything, the first thing they had to do was receive the equipment that Iz hastily made.

After Maple and the others left the workshop, they went around the 4^th Floor Area and collected as many quests as they could.

However, in the end, only the first two were likely to involve major battles, so they decided to start by clearing them first.

“You can call me when the equipment is finished. In the meantime, I’ll handle the small quests I can do by myself.” (Kasumi)

“Got it.” (Sally)

“The equipment is on the way, but if I’m not careful, I won’t be able to fight, so I have to do my best!” (Maple)

“I think a lot will depend on Maple’s approach. There’ll probably be areas that we can’t cover, especially in places where gravity is strong.” (Sally)

They’d just retreated after suffering a devastating blow in the 5^th Floor Area. Maple didn’t let her guard down, but as she faced the monsters along the way, Maple didn’t let her guard down and raised her concentration.

Thanks to Iz working at full speed, the equipment was completed in just a few days, and a message was delivered to Maple.

“Iz!”

As soon as they opened the door to the Guild Home, they were greeted by Iz. Glittering silver earrings and a ring were placed on the desk next to her. They were probably the equipment she’d prepared.

“For the time being, I made the equipment as small as possible so it wouldn’t be noticeable. With this, I don’t think anyone will notice that your HP has increased unless you take damage.”

“Thanks!”

The earrings could be used as head equipment, while the ring could be used as an accessory. With that, Maple’s abilities would go up a notch.

Thanks to Iz’s consideration, the equipment itself was kept small so that it could be used in interpersonal battles.

[Guardian Knight’s Earrings X]

HP+300

[Guardian Knight’s Ring X]

HP+300

“Oh, how amazing!”

Although there were no special skills, equipment that were made specifically for HP had a value that exceeded the Unique Series in terms of increased stats, as Iz said.

“I’ll be happy if this makes exploring even a little bit easier.”

“Yes! I’ll do my best!”

“Let me know if you need anything else.”

“Will do! I’m going to the 4^th Floor Area with Kasumi, so when I obtain the materials, I’ll go to Iz!”

“Hehe, I’m looking forward to it.”

Maple immediately equipped the new set and decided to head to the 4^th Floor Area.