https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-298-Will-the-Monsters-Get-Stronger-/12933074/
Chapter 299: Mira: Actually, I have some savings.
Chapter 299: Mira: Actually, I have some savings.
Makarov was injured, and Natsu and Lucy found him in a cave.
The two Vulcans they encountered earlier were guarding the entrance, partially blocked by ice lumps.
These gorilla-like creatures seemed to possess a certain level of intelligence.
Upon seeing Natsu and the crab, Makarov, who had been found, displayed a mix of relief and embarrassment.
Rod, witnessing this scene, felt a bit shaken, realizing that his uncle had indeed gotten into an accident...
However, it was a relief that he was safe.
After confirming that Makarov was out of danger, Natsu waved at the River Crab's eyes with a smile.
Rod chuckled, "This guy is surprisingly considerate in this regard."
On their way back, they walked slowly, tending to Makarov's injuries.
After work that evening, Rod temporarily put aside his training and prepared to wait for them with some medical supplies.
Mira naturally accompanied him.
On the way, she hesitated a little and said, "I have something to ask you."
Love, protection, and saving Mom...
Even at times like this, Rod didn't cause trouble and honestly asked, "What is it?"
"Didn't you once mention settling down in Magnolia?"
"Yes," Rod held her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze, "The thought has become more and more compelling in recent months."
Although they had a bit of a scare today, life couldn't be put on hold due to fear of an unknown future event.
"Can I ask how much you've saved?"
Rod winked at her, "Checking up on your husband's finances?"
Mira wrinkled her nose at him, "You're shameless."
Rod laughed, "With a few high-paying quests, a salary increase, and various small jobs we've taken together, we have over 4 million Jewels."
There was nothing to hide; every penny Rod earned was accounted for, and Mira was well aware of their expenses.
If she wanted to calculate, she could estimate a similar figure.
With this thought, Rod suddenly wondered if he should consider earning some extra money after marriage to stash away some savings.
He could always blame it on Worm's increased food expenses.
"Why are you asking about this now?"
"Actually... I have some savings too." Mira gestured, "About this much."
"Huh?" Rod showed a surprised expression, not because of the amount but the implication of her words.
Was she purely trying to ease his burden, or was she subtly urging him to propose?
Sensing Rod's confusion, Mira explained, "I recently found out that Elfman is also saving money and discreetly inquiring about house prices and nearby rents."
"I think he believes that I will..." Even Mira blushed at the word, skipping over it, "...in the future, kick him out."
"Oh... He plans to move out on his own, but you want him to stay, even if it means starting over with me... saving and settling down again."
Rod understood; the siblings were both considering each other's well-being.
Mira punched Rod lightly, "That place is our first home in Magnolia, filled with memories of us and Lisanna. It would be too cruel to make Elfman move out."
Perhaps this was what being an older sister meant—despite the occasional pranks, punches, and scoldings, she would always consider his feelings in times like these.
Most importantly, Elfman was also thinking about his sister and quietly working hard for her.
"That's why I wanted to discuss this with you. We..." Mira stumbled over her words, as saying this was akin to expressing her desire to marry him.
Although it took courage to confess, proposing was a different matter, and... She had only decided to discuss this with Rod after hearing what he said today, and she hadn't prepared flowers or a ring.
Otherwise... Hmph.
"I understand." Rod hugged her, his mind already playing classic tunes like Good Days and Good Luck on repeat.
Meeting Mira was his greatest fortune.
"Let's work hard together from now on, for our family and our future."
Mila pounded his chest several times in his embrace, "You're being too cunning saying that."
"Then today doesn't count as 'that' yet."
Rod decided to take her to a jewelry store another day to browse and find out what kind of ring she liked.
On an ordinary night, without any romantic atmosphere, the two made an extraordinary promise.
This could also be considered romantic, a romance unique to ordinary people.
...
"Brother Rod, Sister Mira."
Romeo's small figure stood under the dim streetlight, looking towards the end of the street, his eyes still wet with tears, which he wiped away upon seeing the two.
Rod patted Romeo's head, "Don't worry, Natsu, Happy, and Lucy have found your dad."
"Really?"
"I confirmed it with magic, and they'll be here soon."
The word 'magic' was very convincing, and Romeo immediately believed him, "How is Dad?"
Rod used Transformation Magic to produce a medical kit, "He's slightly injured, but a bandage will fix him right up."
Romeo was about to cry again, but before Mira could comfort him, he consoled himself:
"It's normal for a Mage to get injured. Completing a quest safely with injuries is the greatest honor. I won't cry; it's disrespectful to Dad's efforts..."
Mila squatted down and wiped Romeo's face, "Is this what your dad usually tells you?"
"Yeah, did Dad really say that?"
Mila smiled, "Of course, and only an exceptional Mage can say such cool words. Your dad is an outstanding Mage."
"Yeah!" Romeo beamed.
Rod remembered how Romeo had been teased by the other children a few days ago.
'As a father, there are some things I have to uphold. You'll understand when you and Mira have kids.' Makarov had said at the time.
Romeo's smile made Rod understand a little.
However, he still felt that if it were him, he would have found another way, like teaching the kids not to compare such trivial matters? Perhaps he would only understand once he became a father.
Two large crabs carried the three of them and a cat steadily from a distance, and in the shadows where ordinary people wouldn't notice, three wolves vanished without a trace.
"Dad!" Romeo ran over, "Dad, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have..."
Makarov endured the pain and jumped down, hugging Romeo, "Sorry for worrying you."
"It's okay... Because I'm the son of a Mage." Romeo glanced back at the smiling Mira and Rod, "The son of an exceptional Mage."
Makarov's heart warmed, and he released his son, showing the coolest smile in Romeo's eyes,
"Next time those brats tease you, tell them, 'Can your dad take down 18 monsters?'"
"Yeah!"
(End of Chapter)
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