CH 21

“In other words, a beginner’s dungeon only gives you something that suits the aptitude of the person who cleared it. Of course, it is a good thing, so it is not really amazing. But it’s still a great item for a youngster, Great Wizard Boy. “

Thanks to Hans-san’s wisdom, I was able to solve the mystery.

By the way, Hans-san is a middle-aged adventurer who I met here yesterday, and he is always talking about “I was very fat when I was young.”

“Hey, I can’t hear what you are saying.” (Hans)

“Well, that’s good. Then what kind of things do other people get? What did Hans-san get?”

“You’ve blatantly changed the subject… That is fine. Some people get spears, some people get grimoires. I got a sword. It is made of Steel.” (Hans)

Yesterday, I tried to find a way to reverse the humiliation last time and learn more, but Hans was kind enough to answer, somehow.

I see. That makes sense. The dungeon chose the drop that I was most compatible with. That is all. It is a strange occurrence, but I guess it is the way things are in this world.

“So the sword Hans-san is holding now is the sword of that time?”

“Do not be stupid. I think it was years ago. I “burned” through that sword.” (Hans)

Hmm? Something does not feel right. “Burned” the sword? That is a strange way of putting it. I wonder if it is some kind of other world jargon.

“Hans-san, what does it mean to “burn” a sword?”

“Hmm? Adventurers call it “burning” when you strengthen your equipment because you failed, and it is destroyed. It happens every so often” (Hans)

Hmm … I have a feeling that that is something really interesting!

“Hans-san! Please tell me more about enhancing equipment!”

Hans-san replied, a little reluctant to my sudden overwhelming enthusiasm

“I’m sure you’re not the only one. However do not do it, do not do it. It’s not something you can mess with if you’re just starting out, and it can be the end of your life as an adventurer if you take it too far and too early.” (Hans)

If you say that much, I am even more curious!

“Somehow, I won’t force you to tell me.”

“Even if you say so… Oh… I’m thirsty from all the talking.” (Hans)

“Master! Another ale!”

The barkeeper immediately put a wooden mug of ale in front of me, saying “Here!”

I give a coin to the barkeeper and slide the mug in front of Hans-san.

This is an investment.

“Hehe, sorry if I sounded like I was urging you.”

Hans-san downed about half of the ale in front of him and continued his words.

“In the labyrinth, you can find an enhancement scroll. You can try to apply it on a piece of equipment. Once the Scroll of Enhancement is activated, only the heavens will know whether it will succeed or fail. That is why, If it succeeds, the equipment will be strengthened. However, if it fails, the equipment will be “burned” and disappear.” (Hans)

I see. You can use that scroll to enhance your equipment… However, why would that “end your life?”

I was curious so I asked. I got a convincing answer.

“There are various reasons … No matter how good the equipment you have, it can all easily vanish. There are times when it burns through the heart of that person wearing the equipment.” (Hans)

He paused his explanation, took a sip of ale before continuing.

“Then, some idiots may enhance their equipment without preparing a spare and lose everything. This often happens to young adventurers.” (Hans)

Hans-san looked at me.

I see. ……. It is tough on people who do not think and plan properly… and it seems to foster people with the worse traits of the gambler’s mindset.

There was a similar system in the game, and some people went crazy and lost their equipment.

There will always be a number of such people in both worlds.

“Okay… I got it.”

I replied and spooned some of the brown stew in my mouth.

The stew here is surprisingly delicious. The unknown well-cooked meat melts in my mouth. It was seasoned with gravy, vegetables, wine, salt, and some herbs. It looks simple, but it has a complex flavor. It is a shame that the amount of meat is so small, but considering the price, it cannot be helped. For the price, this amount of meat is expected.

“Well, be careful. If you have no self-control in this profession, you will not last. You cannot ignore moments when you should retreat. You may fail or die. No matter how lucky you are. If you keep doing this over and over again, someday…” (Hans)

Hans-san, who spoke with a distant look in his eyes, finished his remaining ale, waved one hand, and said, “See you later,” as he left the bar.

I heard an interesting story. I will keep his story in mind.

With that in mind, I also drank cheap, watered-down wine into my throat.