An Ordinary Civil Servant’s Transfer to Another World A Gacha-Dependent Life Relying on Luck
The next morning, we set out into the town of Lyubelia.
Today’s goal was to look around the town and figure out how I could put my appraisal skill to use.
“Almerita, I think we’ll be walking around a lot today, so if you’re free, feel free to explore the town on your own.”
When I said that, Almerita momentarily widened her eyes in surprise but quickly responded in her usual modest tone.
“If it’s not too much trouble, I’d like to accompany you, Kazuto-sama.”
“It’s no trouble at all. Though, I think it might be boring for you.”
After I replied, Almerita’s expression brightened instantly, and she smiled.
“Thank you very much. In that case, I’ll join you.”
If she seems even a little happy about it, then it’s fine. Being alone in an unfamiliar place must be unsettling, and for me, there’s no particular issue either.
First, to get a feel for the overall atmosphere of the town, we started walking towards the north gate from the guild. As we walked, I recalled what the guild’s receptionist had told us yesterday and chatted with Almerita along the way.
“Kazuto-sama, the shops along this road seem to have quite a different vibe.”
“Yeah. Just as the guy at the guild said, this area has a lot of shops for beginners. Look, those stalls over there are an example.”
The stalls were lined up near the north gate, and further in, more established buildings started appearing. Weapon shops, armor shops, potion shops, tool shops, and even inns—just by glancing around, one could see the distinction between beginner-oriented and advanced-level services.
“There’s a church here too, right? Is that large building the church?”
“That’s right. That’s the church, and next to it is the mayor’s office and city hall… Though, unless I have business there, I’d rather avoid going near it.”
As I chuckled wryly at my last comment, Almerita tilted her head curiously.
“Why is that?”
“Well, back in my hometown, people who worked in government offices always seemed to have… lifeless eyes. It makes me feel a bit sad just looking at them.”
While we were talking, a sign reading “Appraisal Shop” caught my eye.
“Appraisal Shop…? That sounds interesting.”
This overlaps with what I’ve been trying to do. We decided to go inside.
Inside, a friendly middle-aged shopkeeper greeted us. He explained that his shop offers appraisal services to determine the value of brought-in items.
Ahh, I see… The pricing varies depending on the scope and precision of the appraisal, shop by shop.
“Yes, exactly. Our pricing is flat per item, which is cheaper than the guild. However, guild appraisals come with official certification, and selling items through the guild helps adventurers earn points for rank advancement.”
Upon hearing more details, I learned that using an appraisal shop is cheaper if you want to keep dungeon items for personal use or don’t plan to sell them immediately.
“But it’s difficult to sell unappraised items you pick up.”
“That’s right. Unappraised items are usually treated as junk. While specialized buyers may purchase them in bulk, expectations should be low.”
I nodded, realizing that earning money through my appraisal skill wouldn’t be easy.
Specialized buyers probably work at places like Eastwood’s direct-sale dungeon stalls. Maybe I’ll run into the shopkeeper again soon.
“Thank you. If I have something to appraise, I’ll come back.”
Afterward, we spent the entire day visiting stalls, but every item on sale was already appraised. Given the importance of appraisals in a labyrinth city, it made sense that such a system was already well-established commercially.
“Where there’s demand for appraisal, there’s also competition…”
I shrugged and sighed. I had thought about making money through appraisals in the labyrinth city, but it wasn’t going to be easy. While there was demand, experienced professionals and specialists already dominated the field, leaving little room for a novice like me.
“Hmm, what should I do… This is troubling.”
Wanting to gather my thoughts, I decided to return to the inn despite it being early.
Though the room was small, it wasn’t bad for quiet contemplation. Besides, after nearly nonstop activity for the past ten days since arriving in this other world, my body was more tired than I expected.
Maybe I should rest for a bit…
I glanced at Almerita sitting next to me. Though she was silent, she looked worried whenever I showed a troubled expression.
“Almerita, I’m tired today, so let’s take a break.”
“Yes, understood…”
Almerita replied with a concerned look.
—
“Almerita, how about exploring the town a bit today?”
“Explore?”
“Yeah. Actually, I want to look for new business ideas. It’ll be a nice change of pace, and maybe we’ll find some hints for future earnings while checking out different parts of the town.”
Surprised by my suggestion, Almerita eventually smiled and nodded.
“Yes, I’d love to join you.”
And so, we headed out into the town.
Walking along the cobblestone streets, we browsed through stalls and shops. There were stores selling accessories and daily necessities, shops dealing in magical catalysts, and even herbal remedy stands—all fascinating in their own way.
“This shop seems lively.”
Almerita’s eyes sparkled as she spoke.
“Indeed. There must be high demand. But the entry barriers seem pretty high…”
I crossed my arms, deep in thought. While these businesses weren’t suited for quick profits, they might still have potential in the long term. For instance, in Eastwood, I had abandoned the idea due to lack of time, but selling light snacks could work. I might also consider soap sales, as raw materials seem accessible. Plus, having a cute cat-eared maid like Almerita as a salesgirl could draw customers on its own. She really does look great in a maid outfit.
But if I’m considering long-term ventures, I need to carefully decide whether this is truly what I want to do. I’m done with the stable but monotonous life of a government worker—I want to do what I enjoy and live happily.
What do I enjoy, though?
Gacha… To fund that, I need to make money… Wait, this is going in circles.
“Is something wrong?”
Almerita looked at me with concern. I shouldn’t let her worry like that.
“I’m fine. Oh, look, those roasted nuts look delicious. Let’s try some.”
We bought a few from a stall selling roasted nuts and shared them.
“How are they? Delicious?”
“Yes, very!”
Almerita gave a faint smile.
Tomorrow, I’ll need to decide on a course of action for the future.