บท 23: The Use of Healing Potions By Ryota Endo
How exactly to import items from a different civilization and convert them into cash was a problem that seemed quite challenging to Wataru.
The main issues were legal regulations and the dissemination of information in a digital society.
For instance, there's the issue of pharmaceutical regulation. You can't just make a drug and sell it without approval, as it would allow pharmaceutical companies to operate without oversight. A system already exists where the government grants approval, and licensed pharmacists handle the sales.
Plants and animals face quarantine issues too. While pawning or selling gold coins and artworks could be a quick way to convert them into cash, it requires proof of identity, which could raise suspicion of tax evasion and invite scrutiny from tax authorities.
Furthermore, regardless of how effective a product is, selling it requires appropriate stores, licenses, and connections. Considering all this, it seemed reasonable to either introduce the product to existing companies or sell it to a select few enthusiasts or wealthy individuals in modern Japan.
Naturally, gaining the trust of potential partners was crucial. For someone like Wataru, who was still young and lacked significant achievements, it was challenging to find someone willing to seriously consider his proposals.
The day after receiving information about Baron Moie from Maso, Wataru used his computer and smartphone to contact potential business partners. Many were unavailable or did not respond favorably, leading him to doubt the feasibility of his plans.
However, just as he was about to give up, he received a positive response from one of them. Wataru clenched his fists in excitement and shouted in triumph.
"Yes! I've got a response!"
"What happened, Master?"
"I might be able to make some money here. I need to go out and meet someone, so please stay home today."
"It's a shame I can't accompany you, but I'll take care of the house."
"It's fine, Air."
"No problem. I'll do my best with my training while you work hard for us, Master."
Seeing the two of them looking dejected made Wataru feel guilty. He wanted to take them with him and show them around the city, but today wasn't suitable for that. He wanted to avoid the risk of being thought rude for bringing them along for an important discussion.
Moreover, it was essential for them to get accustomed to the house and electronic devices, and this time spent managing things was valuable.
He also felt guilty about not allowing Air to perform her original role as a bodyguard.
(But, I'm not entirely free from concerns about Air either.)
The ethics regarding killing and violence differed significantly from those in modern Japan. Even though Japan is a peaceful country where violence is condemned, people might act out of reflex in critical situations. Mariel and Air stood out, and it was possible that someone might provoke them into a violent incident.
While he wanted to show them various experiences, he felt he couldn't yet trust them completely. This was a concern that would hopefully resolve with time.
In a café within a hotel in Osaka, Wataru found the person he was looking for. The individual stood out even from a distance due to his tall stature and solid build.
Ryota Endo, two years senior to Wataru, was currently a professional baseball player, playing as a second baseman and having participated in the opening game of the season.
Ryota, noticing Wataru, waved his long arms enthusiastically.
"Ryota! It's been a while!"
"Yeah, Wataru! It's been a long time!"
With a booming voice matching his physique, he greeted Wataru with a broad smile.
(Wonder how unfair it is that someone with such athletic talent and looks can become a pro.)
Wataru and Ryota had known each other since kindergarten, as their families were close neighbors. Ryota, already showing talent in baseball from an early age, attracted attention from scouts once he entered a prestigious high school. Despite seeing less of him due to his busy training schedule, they maintained a good relationship from their childhood.
Ryota was Wataru's almost唯一 connection through which he could directly contact someone. This meant that if this negotiation failed, Wataru would lose a swift way to convert his goods into cash.
Although other methods, such as pawning gold coins, were available, they didn't align with Wataru's preferred approach. The negotiation was crucial, and Wataru felt a significant amount of pressure.
"Thanks for coming despite your busy schedule," Wataru said.
"It's been about three years, right? What have you been up to?"
"I've been working as a web writer and recently started a personal trade business."
"Hmm, sounds like you've got into some unusual work."
After ordering hot coffee from the waitress, Wataru began explaining his current situation. He noticed Ryota's expression stiffening slightly as he spoke. Despite their long history, it was understandable that Ryota might be wary, especially since Wataru had reached out after a long absence.
"I assure you, this isn't about religion, multi-level marketing, or insurance," Wataru said, sensing Ryota's unease.
"Yeah, I'm not worried about that, but you know, ever since I became a pro, I've had all sorts of distant relatives popping up."
"That actually happens? I've heard of it but didn't think it was real."
"It's real, and many people end up losing a lot."
Even successful professional baseball players face hidden struggles. Wataru, relying on Ryota's connections and savings, was honest about his intentions.
"I want you to be the first to try this healing potion," Wataru said.
"What's this…? A nutritional supplement?"
"This is a new healing drug I imported from abroad. It costs 3 million yen."
"3 million yen!?"
(Wow, this sounds incredibly dubious… Who would believe such a story right off the bat?)
Despite the urge to laugh at how implausible his own pitch sounded, Wataru maintained a serious expression.
Given the absurdity of his claim, he needed to remain as serious as possible. As expected, Ryota looked skeptical, his friendly gaze from their childhood replaced by a cold, suspicious look.
"Wataru, are you sure you're not being deceived?"
"It's genuine. I've heard testimonials from people who have tried it."
"Even if it's you, it's hard to believe such a fantastical claim."
"I wouldn't believe it either if I were in your place."
"Exactly—"
"So, how about this: If you feel any effect from the potion, I'll give you 3.5 million yen and ask you to refer me to other professional baseball players with injuries."
"Making a profit of 500,000 yen?"
"There are additional costs beyond the purchase price. I understand it's not a small amount, but if the potion can completely heal injuries, it's worth the cost. Don't you think?"
Ryota paused, visibly considering the offer. As a first-string player who had recently suffered a knee injury, he was likely interested due to his current rest period.
"This potion also works on old injuries. For example, severe ligament damage from years ago can be completely healed," Wataru said.
"I see. You knew about my knee injury back in middle school, didn't you?"
"Yes. It's a success-based reward. Will you try it, even if you're skeptical?"
"Well, if you insist. But if it doesn't work, I won't pay a single yen. Is that alright?"
"That's fine. But please don't pretend it's ineffective if it actually works."
"I won't. It'll be obvious from my performance later on."
With that, Ryota, still skeptical, uncorked the potion bottle. The cork made a popping sound as he carefully observed the liquid inside.
(Please let it work as expected.)
Although Wataru was confident from Air's statements, the potion's effects could vary in this world compared to its original realm.
Unaware of Wataru's anxieties, Ryota took a gulp of the viscous potion. As the liquid flowed from the bottle into his mouth, Wataru watched, holding his breath in anticipation.
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