"It goes without saying," Iwata said, returning with a cup of yogurt and handing it to Takuro. (It felt cold to the touch: did I Iwata have a minibar hidden in his drawer?) "That this means you should cover your weaknesses. It's important to get stronger, but all the same, to learn spells that will strengthen you. Life isn't like a videogame where the first problems you'll encounter will be leveled down for you."

He straightened up, rubbing his chin while looking at both kids.

"I have an idea. You should both try making potions, or get yourselves some ingredients from nature or from a gardening shop, or some more unique ones from the Merchant! You could also get stuff that's useful from beating enemies or exploring magical sites."