Chapter 489: It Ended in a Draw (2/2)

[That might be the case. But because I was unable to create that small opportunity….. That's why I can't express in words how grateful I am to Miyama-kun for doing that for me.]

[I was just doing what I wanted. I was just acting on my selfishness, and I wasn't looking for anything in return.]

[……But that doesn't change the fact that your selfishness saved me.]

[Guhh……]

It was a close battle, as if I was walking on thin ice…… However, I was clearly at a disadvantage. I was completely pushed back, and I was even forced to use a response that I had just dismissed as useless.

As if she had read my thoughts, a grin appears on Dr. Vier's lips…… This won't do. I don't have any cards to get out of this situation!? I'm being pushed back……

[Yes, I received just the exact amount. Thank you for your patronage!]

[ [ ……Ehh? ] ]

[……You two, how long are you going to mess around? I've already paid the bill, so let's go.]

[ [ Eh? ] ]

……an ambush comes from the shadows. We never expected that a third party would attack from the shadows.

While Dr. Vier and I were fighting for the bill, Neun-san, who had quickly paid the bill, called out to us, looking astounded.

[It's my treat.]

[ [ ……Ah, yes. T- Thank you for the food.] ]

Since she has already paid for it, it's considered a defeat for Dr. Vier and I. No matter how hard I struggle to fight back here, I can't overturn it anymore…… Thanking Neun-san, Dr. Vier and I could only slump our shoulders in disappointment.

After staring at the back of Neun-san's head as she walked out of the store, I moved my gaze…… and met eyes with Dr. Vier.

[……I guess…… this is a draw huh.]

[Yes…… Next time, I won't lose.]

[Me too……]

[……Fufu.]

[……Ahaha.]

Before I knew it, Dr. Vier and I were firmly shaking hands. Recognizing each other as worthy rivals, respect and admiration could be seen on the smiles on our faces.

There are things that only those who have crossed blades against each other can understand…… and there are also bonds that were firmly built after a good fight.

Dear Mom, Dad————— Just as I had thought before, Dr. Vier and I were the same type of person…… And she was also a very powerful person. The battle was going against my favor, but in the end, the first confrontation between Dr. Vier and I————- ended in a draw.

Serious-senpai ZERO : [Wyverns are usually pretty strong monsters, right? I can understand if it can't reach last boss-tier, but they should have potential to be considered as mid boss, right? ……How the heck are they being treated as something that can be eaten by commoners at a reasonable price……]

Wyvern-senpai : [That's right!]

Serious-senpai ZERO : [It seems like……. you also had your fair share of hardships huh.]

Wyvern-senpai : [……I mean, it kinda feels like I'm only appearing as edible meat…… However, even though I'm being treated as bad as usual…… Seeing the word wyver appear in the novel…… Even though I feel a bit sad, I could still feel some happiness.]

Serious-senpai ZERO : [……I get what you mean.]

T/N: 55/271