The Goddess Granted Me the [Hatching] Skill and Somehow I Became the Strongest Tamer, Commanding Mythical and Divine Beasts - 7

As usual, I walk through the forest.

Pushing aside the leaves, scanning my surroundings, and searching for herbs—it takes time.

It’s been several weeks since I started entering the forest, and I’ve become quite accustomed to exploring.

Today, however, I feel a discomfort on my shoulder, and my awareness naturally turns towards it.

“…”

Following my gaze, I find Purple, the magic worm with a purple body, perched on my shoulder.

I had planned to release it deeper into the forest once we got far enough, but Purple seems reluctant to leave me, climbing up my arm and settling comfortably on my shoulder.

The words “Familiar Pact” that sounded like the voice of a goddess earlier cross my mind.

Taking it as it is, it seems I am commanding Purple.

Unlike when it was a chick, something seems to be required now. Perhaps it’s being a monster, giving it a name, or both.

In any case, I can’t determine the correct answer right now, and since Purple firmly clings to my shoulder and won’t let go, I have no choice but to leave it be.

Therefore, even with this strange companion, my task remains unchanged. I must search for herbs today as well, so that Celia can study in the royal capital…

— Rustle, rustle —

“Hm?”

A thread extends from Purple’s mouth and brushes against my cheek.

“What are you doing? It tickles.”

When I address Purple, who clearly has a will of its own, it shakes its head and extends the thread.

Though it doesn’t speak, perhaps it’s because of the Familiar Pact? Vague intentions seem to come through. It appears there’s something in that direction.

“Well, the footing seems a bit tricky, but…”

Deciding it should be safe if I proceed cautiously, I head in a direction I don’t normally go…

“Huh?”

There, nearly a dozen herbs are growing.

“I’ve never seen so many growing together before.”

Until now, I’ve only searched for herbs within easy walking distance, but just by going a bit deeper into the forest, they’re found so easily…

“I should make a note of this place.”

According to the receptionist at the Adventurer’s Guild, herb gathering grounds like this are likely to grow herbs again if given time. I happily gather the herbs. With this patch alone, I’ve secured earnings for several days.

“Alright, did I leave any behind?”

After finishing collecting the herbs, I scan the area. Suddenly, I remember Purple, still perched on my shoulder.

“Magic worms love herbs, and I’ve only fed Purple herbs so far. Plus, that vague intention I felt earlier… coincidence?”

I can’t jump to conclusions based on just one instance. However, I can’t simply dismiss it as pure chance either.

“Can you do the same thing again?”

I stare at Purple, and it manipulates the thread to nod in a different direction.

“…That way, huh? It looks like a tough place to walk as usual, but there’s a good chance no one else has been there.”

Trusting Purple, I continue forward.

“Today, I’d like to deliver a bit more herbs than usual. Is that okay?”

Returning to the Adventurer’s Guild, I address the receptionist, who always handles the purchases.

“Yes, that’s fine. We’re running low on potions, so our herb stock is empty.”

Upon receiving the receptionist’s approval, I take out the herbs I had stored in my bag and place them on the counter.

The receptionist stares at the herbs I’ve laid out, wearing a surprised expression.

“P-Please wait a moment. I’ll count them now.”

She hurriedly counts the number of herbs.

“In total… fifty-three pieces. Is that correct?”

She asks me to confirm there are no mistakes.

“Yes, that’s right.”

“Well then, here’s your reward.”

She says, placing a bag of coins on the tray.

It’s heavier than usual, containing coins I rarely see. My hands tremble at the unexpected wealth, but I quickly stash it away, trying not to show it to those around me.

“Still… Klaus-san, you’ve only recently become an adventurer, yet you’re amazing, aren’t you?”

The receptionist strikes up a conversation. It’s unusual compared to our usual business-like exchanges.

“I just happened to find an herb gathering ground.”

“I see… Herbs aren’t easy to find unless you’re very observant. Perhaps Klaus-san has a talent for scouting?”

In reality, it’s not my talent but Purple’s.

Purple keeps finding herb gathering grounds one after another, allowing me to collect this much in a short time.

Purple is now sleeping inside the bag, perhaps overwhelmed by drowsiness after eating a lot of herbs.

“Oh no, I still don’t really understand much about being an adventurer, and…”

I laugh it off lightly and wave my hand when…

“Indeed, someone who still dresses like that and can’t even form a party isn’t all that great.”

Returning from a quest, Zeke is there. I don’t know how long Zeke has been listening to the receptionist and me, but he’s grinning.

“If you really want to learn about being an adventurer, why don’t you come out for a drink with us? We’ll teach you plenty.”

Those words send a chill down my spine. It’s clear he’s trying to provoke me.

This money is crucial for Celia to study in the royal capital. I can’t afford to waste even a single coin.

As I contemplate how to get through this situation…

“Zeke-san, please. Don’t bother the newcomer.”

The receptionist gives Zeke a reproachful look. With a glance at me, she silently signals, “Just go,” and I leave the place.

Ignoring the conversation between Zeke and the receptionist, I head outside.