[Lucky Overpowered] — I Became a Background Character Meant to Die in the Game’s Opening, But Now I’m Overpowered and Fighting to Save My All-Time Favorite Alchemist Heroine - Episode 2

“Please take good care of yourself.”

“Ah… thank you very much…”

Lise and I were seen off by the middle-aged priest as we left the church. The white room that had reminded me of a hospital turned out to be the church’s infirmary.

In this world, healing magic exists. It’s considered a divine power granted through gifts, and the church actively recruits people who can use it. Essentially, the church also functions as a hospital.

Naturally, treatment isn’t free. They charged us a fee—leaving my wallet completely empty.

As orphans, Lise and I don’t have parents to cover those costs for us.

Being broke is rough. I know a lot of ways to make money from my game knowledge, but none of them matter if I don’t have any starting capital.

Still… borrowing money from Lise?

I glanced at her beside me. She walked with slumped shoulders, dragging her feet.

She was probably sleep-deprived. She must have stayed up all night taking care of me. Lise really is such a kind girl.

Could I really ask someone like her for money? Even if I promised to return it with interest, what kind of scumbag would that make me?
sigh

But… I have to. There’s a rare opportunity to make some money right now—passing it up would be foolish. Plus, I need to see if my game knowledge really works in this world.

It’s a win-win. I have to go for it.

“Lise… I have a favor to ask.”

“Huh…?”

She slowly lifted her face to look at me. She looked visibly drained—her expression was faint, and she seemed ready to collapse at any moment. Now that Gee’s awake, her tension must’ve finally broken.

It made me feel even worse about what I was about to say. But this is my only chance to raise funds. Please forgive me.

“Can you lend me some money?”

“Huh? Oh, for daily expenses? I mean, I don’t have much either… just a little.”

Saying that, she fished around in her small pouch. I was surprised at how easily she agreed to lend me some. Honestly, I felt a bit guilty—it had gone too smoothly.

“You don’t have to rush to pay it back. Just be careful how you use it, okay?”

“Thanks, Lise. You’re a lifesaver.”

“Don’t mention it.”

With this, I can finally start my money-making plan!

Still, they say trust is easy to lose and hard to regain. I need to be careful not to lose Lise’s trust.

First, I’ll use this small loan as seed money and rake in the profits!

Right now, both Lise and I are severely lacking in funds. Without money, she can’t improve her alchemy skills or continue her research. I’ll support her with both knowledge and financial means.

I have to work hard—so I can be someone worthy to stand beside Lise!

“Well then, get some rest, okay?”

“…Yeah.”

With renewed determination, I saw Lise safely back to the inn, then made my way into the city, guided by Gee’s memories.

Even though it was still early morning, the streets were already bustling. Horse-drawn wagons rushed along the main roads, and crowds of people came and went. Market stalls and food stands lined the streets, full of lively energy.

Up ahead, towering stone walls surrounded the city, a stark reminder that this was no longer Japan.

On either side of the road, sharply peaked roofs dotted the landscape—evidence that this region saw heavy snowfall.

The game had portrayed the brutal winters vividly. This all but confirmed the credibility of my game memories.

Of course, there’s always the chance that my memories from my past life are just delusions. I can’t afford to take them at face value—I need to verify everything.

Still, I never imagined I’d find myself inside a game world. Life really is full of surprises. The townscape looks exactly like what I saw in the game—it’s incredible. Honestly, I’m thrilled. My heart’s pounding—maybe

I’m in love.

I arrived at an area near the city outskirts known for its poor security. Beyond here was the slums, and I could already hear the rowdy voices of a crowd. I must be getting close.

Drawn by the chorus of jeers and cheers, I headed toward the commotion.

“Go for it!”

“Don’t you dare lose!”

“Kill him!”

“Show ‘him what you got, kid!”

The place was an open square surrounded by crumbling houses and makeshift tents. A round, makeshift arena was roped off in the center, and people crowded around it, shouting at the combatants inside.

Two brawny men stood face-to-face within the ring. Judging by the atmosphere, a bare-knuckle fight was about to begin. Both had the rough faces of seasoned fighters.

“So, this is the gambling ring…”

In the game, this place never posed any danger, so I came and went freely. But now, seeing it in real life—with the heat and energy of real men shouting—it was a bit intimidating. I’d better be careful, especially with the low security.

“But… this is for money. For Lise. Let’s do this…”

Clutching the money I borrowed from Lise, I stepped into the gambling arena.