《The Slow Life of a Travelling Alchemist》


 Volume 1 - Prologue

    --Alchemy is the best.


    One day I will craft the Philosopher¡¯s Stone and make a great fortune. After that I want to travel the world and eat delicious food while strolling.


    ¡­¡­Still dwelling on this fantasy of mine, I made my way home after attending boring classes today too.


    It was then I was involved in a traffic accident.


    My surroundings were enveloped by darkness and while I was losing my senses, evaluating the aftermath of the accident I thought to myself: ¡°This is¡­. I guess I am dead¡±. As I made that thought, I was engulfed by light.


    As I was assessing the situation, from within the light a grandpa who claimed to be [God] made an appearance. Don¡¯t tell me, this is the rumored reincarnation to a different world!? Without being a chance to be surprised, God asked me what profession would I like to be in the world I am going to reincarnated in.


    ¡­¡­I only have one answer. To be an alchemist, and the strongest one no less.


    [An Alchemist? That is a rather minor profession that you have selected huh¡­.] while making that statement, God acknowledged my choice.


    Thus, I who have merrily made a class change to an alchemist was enveloped by an even stronger radiance then before and lost my consciousness shortly.

 Volume 1 - CH 1

    When I woke up, my body was lying upside down on a ground with the smell of soil and in front of my eyes was the overarching vast blue sky.


    Just when I was thinking that I have really been transported to a different world, I noticed a dragon flying over at the corner of my eyes. Ah, this is a different world.


    After taking a deep breath, I slowly risen while confirming that my body was in one piece. Ok, both my arm is present.


    Loosening the tension in my hands, there was a staff that looked like it was exactly what an alchemist would use. Wow, it¡¯s the real thing! I haven¡¯t the slightest idea what the staff is made of but, this decoration on the staff, there is no way the staff is fake!


    Due to how happy I was, I stood up and started swinging my staff at a whim. That was when I noticed the existence of a pouch at my waist. I wonder if there is anything in it.


    As I started unzipping the pouch curiously, a letter flew out from it.


    Cautiously unfolding the letter, it turned out to be from [God].


    ¡¸To Mei, the otherworlder


    I forgot to tell you , in order to make your dream of being the [Strongest Alchemist] come true, I have prepared several cheat items which will be useful to you. ¡¹


    In that letter was the manual for the following items: [The legendary recipe book], [The ultimate cauldron] and...¡­. [The bag of infinite capacity]. Ho ho, legendary and ultimate, not to mention infinite. They really know how to cater to my Ch¨±niby¨­.


    With excitement not unlike to when I was bought new toys, I read through the manual and generally grasped how to use the items.


    The bag of infinite capacity is akin to the pocket of a certain blue robotic cat, item and materials can be fit endlessly into it. Not only that, it also automatically arranges the inventory, and I can retrieve any specific object I want easily. Yep, already we have a cheat skill.


    It seems like inside the bag are the remaining cheat item, the legendary recipe book and the ultimate cauldron. As a test I tried pulling out the cauldron, the size of which exceeded my expectation, and as it falls on the ground it made a splash of sand particles. I would say its diameter is around 2 meters.


    [And this would be the recipe book. Let¡¯s see¡­¡­]


    Continuing, I have on my hand the book whose weight reminds me of a dictionary. The cover has a blue base with goldsmithing decoration which seems appropriate for this situation. Flipping through the page, the method of making everything from potion to the philosopher''s stone was all recorded. I can''t stop drooling over this.


    [Man, it really feels like I got a guidebook for this world. Let''s put it to test immediately.]


    I feel like I can do whatever I want. With that, I decided to start making the potion depicted on the first page of the recipe book.


    ¡¸Potion Required material: Plant ¡¤ Water¡¹


    Above are the written material needed. It''s rather general but I wonder if one of this grass lying around would work.


    Arising, I surveyed my surroundings. There was spot where well-suited grass was growing. Beyond it was small river so it seems like acquiring both material wouldn''t be difficult.


    [I wonder what would appear-?]


    Well, I already knew what the result would be. As I thinking that, I gathered whatever material I gathered and toss them all inside the ultimate cauldron.


    ......Then, without even mixing it the cauldron was overflowing with light and from it a green liquid was formed. Eh, is it complete?


    The moment I held the collected substance, without understanding the rationale behind it I knew it was potion. I guess it probably just works that way.


    As I taste tested the potion, I felt that my HP have recovered. Not that I would know how much HP I have anyway.


    [H-hey, you. Is what you are holding onto a potion?]


    [Indeed, it''s a potion hmm?]


    And then I deliberately shake the bottle in front of the source of the voice. I then asked [Do you desire this?] which [Please relinquish it to me] was the reply I got.


    From what I can see this soldier was rather worn-out. I was told he barely managed to escape with his life from the battlefield.


    [That must have been a rather troubling situation. I am willing to concede this to you. Discounted]


    Once more, I swayed the bottle around. Of course, even I have a conscience, however I cannot yield it to him for free. My dream is to use my alchemy to travel the world, and to do so I will require a substantial amount of money. No matter how little, I have to make sure to make a profit from such situation. Gradually and steadily building up my wealth is important.


    [Absolutely. It''s at such a place too, I will purchase it for a higher price than the market rate. How does 200 Fol for each sound]


    ¡­Fol. Seems like that''s the unit for currency in this world.


    Since he said he was willing to buy it at above market rate, I had no reason not to accept. I repeated the potion creation process and sold the completed product to the soldier. The quantity was 6 bottles. I made a profit of 1200 Fol in one go.


    The material cost is practically free, this business is unbelievable.


    ? ? ?


    ¡­As if he cleansed himself, the recovered soldier who drank the potion introduced himself as Richard and left after expressing his gratitude again. Apparently, that person wasn''t a common soldier, but the knight captain of a nearby town.


    I also learned that the place I am currently at is a highway, and that I will reach a town if I go straight.


    [If I have this much, I should be able to pay for the lodging fee, for now let''s make my way to the town shall we.]


    Gulping down the leftover potion, I started walking.


    Thanks to the legendary recipe book I possess the knowledge on how to make every alchemic item and there is no way I can mess up the creation thanks to the ultimate cauldron. To top it off I can collect an infinite amount of material on the way.


    Collecting material as I journey, and eventually once I have gathered the necessary material, I will craft the philosopher''s stone and become wealthy with mass produced gold. I have no doubt it''s the best life plan.


    Reincarnation in a different world. My fantasized life as an alchemist. It isn''t too bad.


    I took my first step as an alchemist.

 Volume 1 - CH 2

    By following the highway, I reached the town known as Meno.


    The day after staying at the inn, I took a stroll around town to gather information. Even if I own multiple cheat items, information about this world is required, especially since I am travelling.


    Walking for several hours, what I learned from the cityscape and the townspeople''s clothing is that this world is very similar to Europe in my original world. Which means this is the template world of sword and fantasy.


    That is why an occupation as absurd as alchemist isn''t questioned in this world......while having that thought I encountered a place where a crowd was gathering.


    [¡­Request bulletin board?]


    [Sorry, please let me through], while saying that I squeezed my way through the crowd and as I made it into the center, the wooden bulletin board was before my eyes. It seems like the adventurer''s guild is posting many kinds of request.


    Originally, to accept this kind of request you must be registered with the adventurer''s guild, however request on bulletin board is special in that non-affiliated individual can receive the completion reward too. Basically, it means that the request is either difficult to complete or just too many shoddy requests.


    Even so, I am a travelling alchemist (pending). I aspire to be a freelancer, and so as not to be bound to an organization to make a living, this opportunity is exactly what I needed.


    [Okay, let''s see...¡­]


    Doing a slight stretch, I started glancing through the request posted on the bulletin board.


    Demon beast extermination, searching for lost people, work assistance......among the various request, what caught my attention was one regarding the delivery of goods.


    ¡¸Desired Item: 10 Bottles of Potion


    Reward: 1000 Fol


    The item to be delivered to the Adventurer''s Guild¡¹


    ¡­If it''s potion I can make as many as I want, let''s choose this.


    With that I pulled out the request slip. At that moment, I heard a laughter from beside me.


    [Hey, young lady. I wouldn''t pick that if I were you]


    The source of the voice was a well-dressed gentleman who is well over the age 40. His dressing gives me the impression that he is a merchant.


    [Have you checked the market price of potion? You will be making a loss for this request]


    It was as if he was admonishing the ignorant me. The price of a potion at a general store is 150 Fol. That means if I procure the 10 bottles of potion normally, it will mean a loss of 500 Fol. Well, even if he didn''t tell me that I also know it myself.


    [Yes, I am aware. Don''t worry, I have my connection]


    [What? Are you friends with some shady merchant who isn''t registered with the guild?] Hearing that along with the annoying laughter, I turned a deaf ear to it and left the venue.


    ¡­Naturally, if I used to normal method, I will be making loss. That is if I used the normal method anyway.


    But the current me is an alchemist with 3 cheat items in her possession. Well, just you watch.


    ? ? ?


    I left town while gathering materials I could find.


    For the material I require, grasses and water from around this area should suffice.


    Walking aimlessly around the highway, I stuffed whatever looked like material into the bottomless bag.


    Wood; rock; soil. Even feathers and insect''s carcass. It seems like the bag also disassemble material with multiple attributes automatically.


    For example, if I put a whole flowerpot inside it, the pot will be categorized as rock material, soil as soil material and the flower as plant material. It truly is a cheat item. Too convenient.


    [Ok, guess I should get going]


    Once I have collected a good amount of material, I took out the ultimate cauldron at the side of the road. The recipe for the potion is already known, all that is left is to put the material inside the cauldron, which is precisely what I did.


    Incidentally, the water that I put into the bag somehow was contained into a flask when I took it out, and it was already treated. Well, I am not going to give it too many thoughts, it''s a cheat item after all.


    [......Alright, I am done!]


    With ingredient that I gathered for free, 10 potions were completed within a span of a few minutes. Packing the final product, I returned to town with spring in my steps.


    ? ? ?


    [Young lady, you are already back?]


    [Geh]


    When I opened the door of the adventurer''s guild, what greeted my eyes was the familiar sight of the merchant who I have met just earlier.


    [W-Well, since I have already completed the request]


    My real personality was leaking out and it was all I could do to desperately maintain that fa?ade. I took the first chance to step away and headed towards the counter. The priority for me right now is to quickly deliver the item and head back to the inn.


    [......One moment there, young lady]


    As I pass by, my arm was grabbed tightly. Huh? What? Please don''t touch me.


    Was what I was thinking but I flashed a fake smile and asked [Yes, what is it?].


    [Every potion in distribution of this country is branded with the manufacturer''s mark. Any item without it has the possibility of being a counterfeit goods......I would need to take a look]


    [A-As you wish]


    While looking calm outwardly, inside me was a ball of stress. Was there such a rule? This is the first time I heard of this.


    [Let''s see...¡­]


    The old man took the potion from me and started inspecting it thoroughly. He then exclaimed.


    [......Well, there was a mark after all. Even still, this is the first time I have seen this design]


    On the potion bottle held by the old man, there was a mark of a flask and cauldron. Hmm? Did it always have that?


    [O-of course, that is the mark of Mei''s workshop. It''s certified for sure]


    It goes without saying that it was all nonsense, but thanks to that I wasn''t questioned any further. While I do not understand the logic, I know this was made the ultimate cauldron. Still, the mark perfectly represents me, I like it.


    [Impossible...¡­An alchemist you say? I can''t believe someone who is not a magus but something as minor as an alchemist is capable of crafting such a high-quality product...¡­]


    Even after the old man returned my potion, he was still muttering something. From what I can make out of it, it seems like in this world magus are the elite and in comparison, alchemist are akin to commoner. At least that''s what I can infer from the tone of the old man.


    [¡­Dear me, if isn''t the alchemist lady from the other day]


    My thoughts were interrupted by a new voice. As I turn to face the source, there stood a soldier clad in a magnificent armor.


    [Ah, if it isn''t Mr. Richard. What business do you have today]


    As I am wondering who he was, his voice triggered my memories. He was the solider who I sold potion to the other day. If I recall, he is the knight captain of this town.


    [Thank you for everything you have done during that day. Today I have business this gentleman over here]


    Saying that, he put his hand on the merchant''s shoulder. At the same time, the old man let out a soft shriek.


    [Oran the merchant, a warrant of arrest has been issued in your name for the crime of scam and blackmailing. You have been selling illegally procured potion of poor quality for exorbitant price]


    [Wait a moment, good sir. You got the wrong person......give me a break, for real]


    The old man became meek as he was being arrested, and subsequently taken away.


    ......Hoho. This merchant who I seemed to be crossing path with turns out to be an evil merchant. What a great feeling.


    I felt like I got something off my chest, and I made my way for the guild''s counter.


    Showing the lady receptionist, the request slip, along with the delivery of product meant the end of the quest. With this I received the 1000 Fol. As long as I have alchemy I will never be bored, and on top of that the profit margin is incredible.


    ......By the way, it seems every town regardless of size will have an adventurer''s guild and the bulletin board, I will be sure to make use of it in the upcoming journey.


    Raking in the profit, I left the guild satisfied and returned to the inn. I wonder what is for dinner tonight.

 Volume 1 - CH 3

    I am the travelling alchemist Mei.


    ...Well, I am still in the preparing for my trip currently.


    These recent days, I have been going to the adventurer''s guild daily to take on procurement request to gradually build up my travelling funds.


    Potion, ether, salve and even antidote. Even if it''s just item delivery, there''s various kind.


    Either way, as I am owner of multiple cheat item starting with the ultimate cauldron, most item can be made easily.


    ...Meanwhile, there was one thing that concerned me.


    Inferring from the words of the evil merchant yesterday, I got the idea that the social standing of alchemist in this world is low. The standing of my beloved alchemist class.


    Whenever I make a delivery for an item request, [As expected of a mage] was the usual praise I got. When I corrected them, without fail the client would get shocked and their expression changed to one of scorn. This is a precarious situation; I cannot accept this.


    [...I have accumulated enough money]


    Confirming the content of my now-filled purse, a total of 5000 Fol.


    With this much savings, it seems like a good time to head to the next town and embark on the first step of the realization of my life plan.


    If I come up with something I will act on it. I hastily made my way into the general store.


    [Excuse me]


    [Ara, Mei-chan welcome]


    The friendly voice of the shop attendant beckons me. These few days, I have been coming here daily to buy material for alchemy and completely became a regular.


    After informing that I was going to continue my travels, I requested to purchase a map. A map is a necessity for travelling.


    [A map? Well, we do have it but it''s old not to mention pretty worn-out. I will give it to you as a farewell gift]


    Lucky~. I was ready to buy it, but I am not complaining that I got it for free. Expressing words of gratitude to the old lady, I left the store.


    ? ? ?


    [Hmmm......]


    Afterwards, I sat at the bench and with one hand occupied by a waffle I bought at a street stall, I unveiled the map with the other.


    Granny......I know you said this map is old and worn out but......


    [In fact, it''s so old that I can''t make anything out of it!]


    On the spur of the moment, I threw the map I received via goodwill on the ground. Thud! It made a nice sound.


    [Ah, If I recall, the method for crafting a special map was written in the recipe book. Where was it again......]


    Moment after calming down, I flipped opened the legendary recipe book.


    [There it is. The method to craft the All-purpose Map. Ok......the required material are map and fairy stone]


    ...This tattered map should work, but what is a fairy stone.


    I paid a passing merchant information fee and was taught that I can find it in the nearby forest.


    [Forest......?]


    I couldn''t help but verbalize my thoughts. By forest it means that demon beast will also appear. My principle is to avoid danger as much as possible. It wouldn''t be funny if I was attacked by demon beasts and got a game over before I even set out.


    ...Fairy stone, could I find one at the general store......with that faint hope, I passed through the door of the store once more.


    The atmosphere was awkward considering I had once given words of farewell at this place. Regardless, I found the fairy stone among the display shelves.


    [...10000 Fol!? That''s expensive£¡]


    The price was so shocking that my mouth acted before my thoughts. I covered my mouth in a panic, but it was too late.


    Hearing my cries, the old lady said [It''s the most expensive item in this store after all] while laughing. As expected, there is no way I can afford it. My hard-earned savings would become nothing.


    ? ? ?


    [Ugh, I didn''t expect the fairy stone to be so pricey......]


    Feeling dejected, I returned to the bench and started flipping through the recipe book.


    The reason being, I need a weapon that I could handle.


    [If it come to this I will just go to the forest and find it myself. A weapon......a weapon huh......]


    Murmuring to myself, I started going through the recipe book. As expected of the legendary recipe book, multitude of crafting method for legendary weapons such as Excalibur and Flamberge are all recorded. Well, it''s not like I have the required materials. What even is a Sword of Light.


    Let''s assume I crafted a sword using metal, it''s doubtful I can wield it. I can''t imagine this thin arm of mine swinging a sword without breaking.


    [...Hey you, what are you doing at such a place, with a book and all?]


    [Huh?]


    While racking my brain that is by no way good, I was interrupted, and feeling slight annoyance I looked up.


    There stood two person who seemed to be adventurers. They were wearing simple clothing made from animal skin, and the sword at their waist also looked plain albeit slightly maintained.


    [What kind of book are you reading......eh, it''s blank]


    I realized I was being watched, and closed the recipe book by reflex. Apparently, the content cannot be read by anybody besides me. Isn''t it nice, this feeling of privilege.


    [Big bro, her appearance. I think she is an alchemist]


    [An alchemist? That minor profession?]


    ...Hmm?


    [Yea yea. Those people who stay in their work shop and mix their pot whole day]


    ...They are suddenly looking down on me. Don''t tell me, this people are making fun of alchemist? I cannot overlook this.


    [Anyway, seems like you were mumbling something but, if you are going to the forest, we are willing to be your bodyguard. How about it?]


    [That''s right, for a cute little lady like you, we are willing to go the extra mile]


    It feels like these monkeys are saying something when they have the slightest idea about alchemy, but I shall ignore it. As if. I will never forget what they uttered earlier.


    Paying no heed to their words, I left the place after telling them [Don''t worry, I can handle myself]


    Of course, it''s welcomed but apparently it seems like in this world I am considered a beauty. Since coming to this town, I have been hit on quite a few times.


    ? ? ?


    [...I have decided. If we are talking about the staple weapon of an alchemist, it has to be a bomb]


    Even after being mocked by the adventurers, I became engrossed with reading the recipe book and made my choice of weapon. While it''s true that I can make most weapon using this book, I am an alchemist after all.


    With that I searched for the recipe of the bomb. It seems like the required material are gunpowder and tenka stone. Gunpowder?


    I rummaged through my bag and in no time, I have everything I need. Chances are, it was among the materials that I have picked up so far. The Automatic analysis ¡¤ Classification system is really the best.


    [This would be the gunpowder but......isn''t this the smell of sulfur?]


    I recall from a book I read somewhere, the famous black powder is made up from a combination of charcoal, sulfur and saltpeter. Does that mean, sulfur = gunpowder?


    The logic escapes me but, if the recipe says its correct then it is. I stopped putting too much thought on it and tossed the sulfur and tenka stone into the cauldron. In no time 5 bombs were created. I shouldn''t have to worry with this much but I decided to make one more set.


    [With this much it should be enough methinks. Alright, let''s go and get the fairy stone!]


    Checking my equipment, I made my way for the forest with much vigor. It''s too late but, there is a possibility that selling this bomb with a worth of 3000 Fol might have been a safer way of procuring the fairy stone.


    Well, I get to collect material that can only be found in the forest while testing the performance of the bomb. Let''s proceed with line of thought.

 Volume 1 - CH 4

    [Material-? Material-? Wondrous Material-?Let''s get them all-?]


    In this forest devoid of people, I am free to sing as much as I want while collecting materials.


    [Lalala-? La?]


    Stone, grass, tree branches......as I collected everything in my sight, I was greeted by the view of a cliff through the forest clearing.


    Making a halt at the last moment, the ground in front of my feet collapsed and fell below the cliff.


    [That was close......]


    My face twitched involuntarily, and I made a right turn. This will teach me to not pay attention to my surroundings when I am gathering material.


    [Ah, I spot a rare mushroom! This beehive seems like it will be a great material too!]


    ...The excitement lasted for a moment, and I resumed collecting materials. It''s true that it''s dangerous, but this forest is an ingredient paradise. I can''t get enough of this.


    ? ? ?


    After exhausting all the resources, I could find, I sat down at a stump to take a break. The potato quiche I bought for lunch was delicious.


    This is a digression but, in this world, there exist the same fruits and vegetable from my former world so I didn''t have to worry about the cuisine not suiting my palette. Well, they are also vegetables that I have never seen in my life.


    But still......it feels like I am forgetting something.


    [Ah, the fairy stone!]


    My obsession with collecting material almost made me forget about my original objective. Finishing the half-bitten quiche, I got up from the stump.


    ...Well then, my search for the fairy stone have brought me to the heart of the forest. As expected, the atmosphere feels different.


    [Could this be it]


    In this place where sunlight could barely reach, I noticed a stone glowing with a faint light underfoot.


    Picking up the stone with one hand occupied by the recipe book, the page labelled ¡¸Fairy Stone¡¹ was automatically opened. It seems like there is no mistaking it.


    [It can even appraise item and material, impressive]


    While admiring the fairy stone, I kept in the bag of infinite capacity. There are still are few fairy stone scattered around so I will take whatever I can.


    [Pl, please help me--!]


    [...Ara?]


    As usual I was enjoying my self-composed song while collecting material, which was then I heard a cry for help.


    Turning around, the sight of the pair of adventurers who called out to me earlier entered my view. With a drastic change in expression, they started heading towards me. Huh? What is it?


    [Ah, you are the alchemist from earlier on!]


    [Oh, great alchemist, please help us!]


    I was in a state of perplexation, which was when one of the men closed our distance to beg me for help. Ha? Aren''t you embarrassed, asking the girl who you made your laughingstock earlier for help?


    [Hey, wait a sec! There is no need to ask someone like that for help......Gyah---!]


    The adventurer who was witnessing the sorry plight of his partner, was blown away by a mysterious attack to his back. Uwah, that looks painful.


    Rolling through the floor from the impact, the man lost his consciousness. I took a slight glance at him and shifted my attention back to what is important, the three wolves that are glaring at us. Heh, I didn''t think this forest would be this interesting.


    [WA, WAH--£¡ WAH!!]


    In contrast to the level-headed me, the other half of the pair gave in to his fear and ran towards the other direction whilst he screamed.


    [Ah, that side is]


    [Gyaaaa-----!]


    I tried to warn him, but it was too late, both the final word of my sentence and the sound of something crumbling that followed afterwards.


    [...Well, it''s just desserts]


    Without the slightest intention to check on him, I confronted the three wolves. As compared to that thin adventurer, this soft and pitiful girl seems easier to eat......was what their expression was conveying.


    [...Very well, Mei the alchemist will be your opponent]


    Saying that, I released the bomb.


    ...A thundering sound followed immediately after.


    [Eeek!?]


    I couldn''t help but make a pathetic sound. That was how much firepower it had. The nearby trees were all mowed down by the shock wave, and the wolves all became charcoal.


    [Ah......they became charcoal material]


    Shortly after recovering from the astoundment, I thought positively and acted on collecting the trees and the wolf carcass.


    Beast meat and silver fur? I don''t really get it but, demon beast related material being difficult to collect is a classic trope. There isn''t any harm in keeping it.


    ...Incidentally, the adventurer who got blown away is still breathing so if I report it to Richard-san he should be saved. Sometimes my kindness is almost frightening.


    ? ? ?


    Right after returning to the inn, I started crafting the all-purpose map.


    I may say crafting but, the fact is its just throwing the old map and the fairy stone into the cauldron and it will do the rest. As I unrolled the map, I could see a depiction of my surroundings and a marker indicating me.


    Can I see a bit more of the surrounding......while pondering that, I placed two fingers on the map out of habit and in response, the map zoomed out.


    ......Oh? Could this map be.


    Once more I manipulated the map with my two fingers. This time, the map zoomed out all the way till I can see the stars. I got it, this is just like the application by a certain search engine technology company. So, this is what it meant by all-purpose.


    If I wish to return to the starting point, it will do so as if real-time information about my whereabouts is relayed to it. The opposite is also true. It can display the peak of mountain and even the sea of trees. Information about the places of this world is accessible to me.


    [Wa ha. This is kinda fun, I feel like I can do this forever]


    Keeping my tools, I laid on the bed and looked at the all-purpose map.


    [...Wait a minute. Could this map be real-time?]


    As I was scaling and minimizing the map over and over again, coincidentally at one of those timing the name of someone near my vicinity was displayed. If I recall, this was the name of the owner of this inn.


    [Sorry to disturb while you are resting. I would just like to ask what time you would like dinner]


    ...Immediately after, I could hear a voice through the door. It even keeps track of other people''s location.


    [Ah, let''s see. In that case......]


    I chose a random time while trying to hide my surprise. Could this map be a cheat item too I wonder.

 Volume 1 - CH 5

    I am the travelling alchemist Mei.


    Acquiring the all-purpose map without a hitch, I found myself on the streets while aiming for the next town.


    [Fufufu-. As long as I have this map I will never be lost, and by changing the mode I can see the position of the demon beasts. Isn''t it fun-]


    Collecting material while singing my self-composed song on the way to the highway. The weather is clear too, this is the perfect day for a journey.


    ...By the way. Speaking of journeying, I finally have a goal.


    That is to ¡¸Broaden the renown of alchemy in this world¡¹


    The alchemy that I know and love is considered minor in this world. Due to that, when compared to magic, it''s often treated as inferior.


    I do think magus being powerful in a fantasy world is a common trope and I also understand the admiration for it. However, not once have I thought that alchemy is inferior to magic.


    That''s why, by using this cheat items that I was fortunate enough to be bestowed to their maximum potential, I will spread the wonders of alchemy wherever I go.


    ? ? ?


    ...Oh, seems like it''s getting cloudy?


    Embracing that ambition of my mine while strolling, I felt the cold wind and looked at the sky. Without realizing, the sky is turning dark and it seems like it will rain anytime soon.


    [That''s weird. It was clear only a moment ago]


    I tilted my head while opening the all-purpose map, wondering if it has the capability of weather forecasting. Yes, much like cloud radar.


    While thinking that I started tinkering with the map and it did change its mode. Hmmm. This dark bluish part must be displaying where the rain will fall


    [Geh]


    ...It seems like the rain cloud is approaching at a high speed from the north. This looks bad.


    The wind felt colder and colder over time, I desperately searched for a shelter. Along the highway there are tree and plant growing at a certain interval but, they are all thin and doesn''t seem dependable.


    Eventually, the rain started falling and not along after it I could hear thunders and it became a heavy rain.


    [This is bad--!]


    While getting drenched from walking in the rain, I covered my head with my two hands in a futile attempt to protect myself.


    It''s a little too late to realize this, even if I can predict the rain, it''s useless if I don''t have the means against it.


    [...That''s right. This is the perfect time for the map!]


    I retrieved the map I kept earlier from the bag. It is not wet at all despite the rain but I am not going to question the logic.


    [Please let me find a shelter!]


    Forcefully unwrapping the map, I zoomed it out with all my might to search for the shelter. There it is. Just one place.


    The distance is about 500 meter. Run, me!


    ? ? ?


    In the midst of the downpour, I entered the hut I found by chance. Ahh, I am drenched. It got me real good.


    [...Who are you, big sister?]


    [Eh?]


    Closing the door, I started squeezing the sleeve of my clothes to dry it which was when I heard a voice from behind. As I turned around, there stood a girl with a worried expression. Is this a residence?


    [Ara, do we have a guest?]


    Explaining I am not a suspicious individual, which was then from within the hut came the voice of a woman.


    [S-Sorry. I thought for sure that this was an uninhabited house...]


    As I was apologizing, the woman corrected her posture. The lady who just entered the scene was clearly unhealthy and pale. I wonder if she is ill.


    [It''s such a heavy rain. Which should help each other when we are troubled. Please stay here until the rain have passed]


    [Thank you] as I said that, the lady started coughing. The girl rushed to her side, and supported her to the bed.


    [...Mother is sick]


    A short moment the girl returned. Her name is Mary, and she told me about the situation.


    Continuing, [As we are poor, we cannot afford in live in town] was what she said.


    I thought it was strange that there were small houses along the highway but to think this was the reason. The tax of that town seems high too.


    [Well then, I will borrow your place for a bit]


    Informing the residents, I took out the cauldron and recipe book while drying my clothes. Don''t get the wrong idea for I am still clothed. I prepared spares just in case, even tho it''s a little wet.


    What I started working on was a raincoat and umbrella. Thinking about preparation for the future, I decided to get to work as the rain continues.


    Following the recipe book, I started with the waterproof cloth. It is made by preparing powder made via crushing glass and cloth, it seems like a thin layer will be formed to repel water. Glass is procured through the potion container and as such I didn''t have much difficulty getting materials.


    I mixed the completed waterproof cloth with bamboowood I got from Meno''s forest......which is a plant that I can only identify as nothing but a bamboo. In no minute, the umbrella is completed.


    Next, I mixed the waterproof cloth with oil in the cauldron, and similarly the raincoat was swiftly crafted. All right, I shouldn''t have to worry with all this protection.


    [Amazing. Big sister, are you a magus?]


    Mary who has been watching my alchemy from God knows when asked me that with sparkling eyes.


    [Fufufu, this is alchemy] was what I exclaimed proudly. However, Mary tilted her head and answered [Alchem......?]. Yea yea, I get it. Alchemist is just some insignificant profession.


    ...Doing this and that, it was then I heard the chirping through the thin wall. It seems like the rain have stopped.


    The anti-rain equipment that I painstakingly made doesn''t have the chance to shine but that too is fine. Keeping the completed product along with the tools, I placed a few bottles of potion on the desk as compensation.


    [Wah, potion. Big sister, are you a merchant?]


    [Like I said, I am an alchemist]


    I tried to enforce my will again, but it seems like she doesn''t understand.


    [This is a gift for allowing me to take shelter. You can let your mother drink or sell it at town for money. How you use it is up to you]


    Money is important but, an alchemist who will return favor to the best of her ability. That is who I am.


    [Well then, I shall be leaving now. Thank you for allowing me to take shelter from the rain]


    Expressing my gratitude too to the mother who was lying inside, I placed my hands on the door handle. At that moment, the door was opened from outside with momentum.

 Volume 1 - CH 6

    Chapter 6 [Sheltering from the rain, Part 2]


    [Yo. I am here again]


    Right after, the plump man made his way in while bumping into me. Mary who saw the man had an unsettled expression. Who is this person? This old man with a stubble is the caretaker for this family......the atmosphere makes me think that isn''t the case.


    [Well then, today I will need you to pay the debt for sure]


    Not paying a heed to Mary who away along the wall, he pompously made his way to the room where the mother was. Haaa. So, this person is a debt collector.


    [Being able to sleep since daytime, aren''t you living the life. So, I can treat this as the prospect of returning what you have borrowed?]


    [I-I apologize. Please give me a bit more time]


    [Hah? I think I have heard that same line tons of time. This is not a charity]


    Uwah...even though I could feel the tension in the air, but I felt like laughing. The reason is simple, this conversation is exactly like what you would see from a Jidaigeki.


    [Please give us half a month more. Please. I beg you. I beg you]


    Well, that''s realistically the only thing she could say in this situation.


    Moving only my eyes, I scanned the hut. There doesn''t seemed to be a single thing that is worth money.


    However, there is children present. I wish this conversation that would be a bad influence would stop.


    [Ho, if you insist on claiming that you are unable to pay, there is always selling your cute little daughter to a slave merchant what do you say? Shall I make the preparation?]


    [P-Please, anything but that!]


    ...Mmm. This too is exactly how imagine the scenario will play out. I wonder if there is a table or TV set around? That was how typical this conversation is.


    [Aa, you over there. I have been listening quietly but don''t you think you went a little too far?]


    [Hah? Who the hell are you?]


    Watching this unfold like it was some kind of script, I decided to interfere.


    [A travelling alchemist. How much is the debt?]


    [20000 Fol]


    That''s, high. I do not have enough on me. It''s true that a sick person doesn''t have the means to support themselves but, miss, don''t you think you borrowed a bit too much?]


    [Don''t tell me, miss dubbelling alchemiss, you will pay on their behalf?]


    That is not my name. Also, you didn''t even get the word correct.


    [It''s alchemist] after correcting him, I fell silent. With only 5000 Fol on hand it''s not really possible to do anything.


    Already making this my business, I was wondering how to get out of this predicament. It was then the sound of rain hitting the building walls resumed.


    ...That''s right. Let''s go with this.


    As if matching the sound of the rain, an idea surface within my mind. I immediately put it into action.


    [...Believe it or not, even among the alchemist I am one of the greatest. In fact, I even surpass the magus]


    [Hahaha, isn''t alchemist those people who just stir their pot in a dark room? Limit the joke to your face only]


    ...Every word of this man is touching my sore spot.


    [I see. Let''s show you proof of what it means to be the strongest alchemist. The rain will stop soon or rather, I will make it stop]


    Opening the all-purpose map, I made the declaration. The display showed that the rain will stop in 10 second. Matching the timing to my estimation, I snapped my finger.


    With it, the rain stopped at the perfect timing.


    [There, I stopped it]


    The old man exclaimed [That''s impossible] and opened the door behind him. Taking a peep, sure enough the rain has stopped and the blue sky was visible again.


    [Th-this cannot be. Even among the magus those with the ability to manipulate the weather are the elites......!]


    Witnessing the old man trembling, my expression became one of smugness. It''s not like I can actually control the weather anyway.


    Immersing in a sense of superiority, I glanced at the all-purpose map. The next rain cloud is forecasted to arrive in 20 seconds, and accompanying it this time is thunderclouds. Seems like it would be a big one.


    [Now now, it''s no time to be surprised. This time I will summon a thundercloud. Here we go, three]


    Matching the snap of my fingers, a rain fierce enough to topple the buckets have arrived, followed by a blinding radiance. Ooh, the coordination was so sublime that it even amazed me.


    [L-Lies. This cannot be happening......!]


    [...Shall I strike you with the lightning this time round?]


    [Hi, Hiiiiiiiiiiie]


    Of course, the last line was a bluff but to the old man who is now fearful, it was the decisive blow. Letting out a miserable cry, he dashes out of the building. Hahaha. Complete victory.


    [Thank you so much. Putting on a facade as an alchemist, but your true identity is actually a skilled magus]


    Rising up from the bed, Mary''s mother gave me her words of gratitude.


    [Miss Magus, amazing!]


    Mary herself as if she was a completely different person compared to the demeanor she displayed moment ago, looked at me enviously. In fact, I am a skilled alchemist but......it doesn''t seem like they would comprehend even if I explained.


    Even still, I am glad the strategy to put on a show with the forecasting ability of the all-purpose map went well. In my original world, predicting the weather is something that can be easily accomplished via a smartphone application. However, to the technologically backward alternate world''s inhabitants, it probably seems like it could only be the work of magic. That person too, he was fooled by his own make-believe and fled.


    [Now then, I shall take my leave. Madam, for your daughter''s sake too, please try return the debt even if it has to be done by installment]


    Giving my last words, I ensured that the rain cloud have left for sure and headed to highway with the parent-and-child sending me off. With thi

 Volume 1 - CH 7

    [Ahhh, this is not good......]


    I am the travelling alchemist Mei.


    After saying farewell to the family, I have been walking at the highway for hours. It was already sunset.


    I tried to hurry at the best of my ability but with the wet slippery terrain combined with the fact that I am not the fastest person you would see is a recipe for disaster. From the estimation of the all-purpose map, it doesn''t seem possible to reach the next town within the day.


    ...Camping out. These two words emerged at the back of my mind. Even if it''s a highway, when it gets dark there is a chance that demon beast will show up, isn''t that dangerous?


    ...Thus, I have decided to prepare a place to sleep before the sun fully sets.


    [Since I am already making it, I might as well make a comfortable glamping tent. Without further ado, recipe book, open!]


    Opening the book at the side of the highway, I flipped through the pages in search of the recipe and there it was, the all-purpose tent.


    [Humu humu, the material it requires is pretty simple. As long as I have sufficient amount of cloth, I can craft it]


    With my free hand I reached for the bag of unlimited capacity, and pulled out the cloth-based material.


    I brought out whatever I could but it did not reach the required quantity.


    The bag of unlimited capacity is a cheat item that have an auto analysis and categorization function. Furthermore, it will answer to my wishes and let me bring out whatever I desire without searching.


    In other words, there is no mistake that this is the total amount of cloth inside.


    [...Come to think of it, cloth isn''t a natural resource]


    When I was gathering material on the way, it did feel like I didn''t encounter much cloth material. On top of that, the little amount of cloth I have was used to make the rain protection item earlier. I am such an idiot!


    [Mmm, I wonder if this will work out somehow......]


    I went through the recipe book once more. Even if I want to collect material now it''s already too late, and to disassemble the rain protection goods I have is too wasteful. In that case, I have to make cloth with other material.


    [Not the method to craft waterproof or transparent cloth, but the most primitive form of cloth......there, there it is]


    In no time, I managed to find the recipe. As expected of the legendary recipe book. From potion to the philosopher''s stone, I would expect no less from the book that holds the knowledge to crafting every creation.


    The name of the item to be created is ¡¸Ordinary Cloth¡¹. As much as I would like to know what is the benchmark for ordinary, I do not have the luxury to care about such matter. The necessary material is ¡¸Thread¡¹.


    [Thread huh......]


    Cloth is made by spinning and weaving thread. Yes, that much is obvious. However, how was thread made again. Silkworm? Do they even exist in this world I wonder.


    I was thinking about this while fishing for material in the bag. By the way, there wasn''t any. This applies to cloth too but it seems that thread too is also in the minority side for material of the natural world.


    [Muuu, the first thing that comes to mind if we are talking about thread is......]


    Thump, as I closed the recipe book, I circulated my thought. There is one thing that qualify as the most famous ¡¸Thread¡¹ of nature. As I thought......it could only be it.


    ? ? ?


    [Uegh, disgusting......]


    Afterwards, I entered the nearby forest to collect material from the spider nest in between trees.


    [Aa, sorry for destroying your home. I am begging you, please do not resent me]


    While apologizing for literally being a homewrecker, at the tip of the branch in my hand was a roll of spiderweb. In that state I kept it in the bag, wishing to avoid touching it with my bare hands.


    In the span of 30 minutes of roleplaying as a spider hunter (objective = thread), I amassed a good amount. When I took it out from the bag, it already morphed into a beautiful thread. Not bad, it feels smooth too. If it''s like this I wouldn''t get creeped out from touching it.


    [Ok, it''s time for alchemy!]


    Double confirming my gathered ingredients, I returned to the highway. Placing the alchemy cauldron on the ground, I inputted the freshly finished thread into the cauldron.


    Not needing to do anything in particular, large amount of cloth was produced which was then placed into the cauldron again, and the end product, an admirable tent was complete.


    ...Hmm, I feel like several law of physics was broken but since it was made by the ultimate cauldron, there isn''t any issue!


    [Without further ado, let''s enter. Pardon me......]


    It was a tent I made so obviously there isn''t anybody inside, however I made a greeting while entering out of habit.


    [Ooooh, isn''t this kind of amazing?]


    The view in front of me was a space of about two studio apartments. In the center was a carpet, and on top of it a sofa and table. At the corner was a bed, and there was enough room for me to put the alchemy cauldron, which I would think was deliberately constructed.


    [Not bad, not bad at all. To think that it would be this splendid, this was beyond my imagination]


    I lowered my body and rested at the sofa. Yes, this is the perfect softness. At this rate, I will fall asleep without even going to the bed......


    ...Intruding on that thought was the grumbling of my stomach. That''s right. Ever since I left town, I haven''t had anything to eat.


    Dinner......what should I do.

 Volume 1 - CH 8

    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. Currently, I am in a state of extreme hunger.


    [Let''s see, is there anything to eat, anything......]


    To think that at the end of all the hard work and effort put into constructing the all-purpose tent, the reward would be hunger.


    Ransacking the bag of infinite capacity, nothing edible was to be found. Before all that, the tent didn''t have any cooking facilities. Well, it would be bad if the tent caught fire.


    I''m feeling weak......as that thought flashed my mind, my eyes was lead to the recipe book on my hand. That''s right. It is the legendary RECIPE book, which means it wouldn''t be weird for it to contain food recipe. That must be the case!


    Arriving at this conclusion, I am desperate enough to depend on anything.


    [Ooh, it does have it]


    Meat pie, chocolate cake, hamburger, curry rice......the ingredient of this world is similar to my original world, so it''s not surprise that the cuisine will be familiar.


    [What should I make I wonder]


    My mood changed for the better, and I was deciding based on the material I have on hand. Each page not only records the required ingredient, but also depiction of the finished product. The appealing images stroke my hunger even more.


    [......Nnn, huh?]


    Wait a minute. The recipe recorded here, most of them require wheat. Where would I even find wheat growing, I wonder.


    Not a single wheat could be found after fiddling with my bag. That is to be expected as I do not recall gathering it at all.


    What if I placed an old bread into the bag, would it disassemble it into wheat I wonder......but there''s no use thinking about that now. Right now, I don''t even have a single piece of bread.


    [Let''s see, food that doesn''t require wheat...doesn''t require wheat...there it is]


    Unlike a certain great princess of France, ''If they have no bread, let them eat cake''......is not something I have the luxury to say. With my brain that is overcame by hunger, I single mindedly flipped through the pages and finally found the food we known as, steak. Also, vegetable salad. If its this I can make them with my current stock of ingredients.


    [All right, now that I have decided on the menu! Let''s go, cooking time!]


    Thump, taking out the alchemy cauldron from the bag, I placed in on the designated space inside the tent. For preparation fire isn''t needed so I can rest assure.


    ...More like, my cooking skill where hopeless back when I was in my original world. As both my parents are working, my default are usually convenience store bento or dining out. When I tried my hand at cooking on a whim, the pancake became the same color as the frying pan. I wonder if someone like me can cook here.


    That thought crossed my mind for a slight moment before I concluded it will work out somehow. It''s not as if I am doing the cooking anyway.


    Anyway, I started tossing whatever ingredient stated into the cauldron. Carrot; Potato; Cabbage; Corn; Tomato and Wolf meat.


    [Wait, wolf meat!? Hang on! Come back!]


    Being too used to the routine, I didn''t bother to check the ingredient before throwing it in. My hand was extended by reflex but it was too late, a material once inside the cauldron will never return. In the end, I stirred the cauldron with an indescribable expression while starring at the rainbow-colored process.


    ? ? ?


    A few moments later, as if nothing happened a medium rare steak covered in splendid gravy was ready, along with a glossy vegetable salad. While I took the first bite hesitantly, it was both delicious, especially so when I am hungry.


    ...But still, the fact that it was wolf meat was still a little disturbing to me. It would be one thing to think of it as Gibier cuisine, but without a doubt I know for a fact it¡¯s from the wolves I defeated in the forest.


    Slicing the wolf steak into bit size and chewing it, I thought about the irony that the wolf who attacked me with the intention to make me dinner is now my dinner.


    With that I have finished my dinner, and is now preparing my pajamas.


    [The shirt I am wearing was once drenched with rainwater, as expectedly sleeping in them is beyond me]


    Making that statement, I planned to use the leftover cloth from making the tent for the pajama. With alchemy, I can skip the whole sewing process. Come to think of it, the spinning technology of the modern world is really great after all. I can''t help but nod in agreement to cotton mill being designated as a world heritage.


    With my hands on my chins, I nodded in agreement. Eventually, a pajama which feels great to touch was completed. The smoothness was as if it was silk. Hard to believe that this was originally spiderweb.


    [But, if I wear this, what if I have nightmares of getting caught by a spider]


    Verbalizing my thoughts humorously, I lied down on the bad. As expected, the bed was really soft.


    ...Eh? Am I not going to take a bath? This tent doesn''t have that facility.


    Hypothetically, let''s said I prepared the material to make it, I can''t install it inside the tent. It will get immersed in water.


    With that, once I reach the next town, the priorities are wheat and a bath.....I eventually fell asleep while thinking.

 Volume 1 - CH 9

    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. Today I woke up feeling refreshed.


    My comfortable camping experience have ended, and I reached the next town at dawn the next day.


    It seems like this is a mining town, evidenced by a board stating [Mining City Eldonia]


    [That''s nice. Mine. If you manage to find gold from mining, you will become rich overnight. Isn''t it such a wonderful dream]


    Crossing through the gate excitedly, I spy clans of dwarf strolling around. Waah, this truely is fantasy.


    Well, if we''re talking about dwarf there is the impression that they are good at labour or blacksmithing. So there''s no surprised they will be in a suited for their expertise.


    [...Oh, if isn''t a lady of the human race. Is the dwarf race a rarity for you?]


    As if they felt that I was observing them, the voice of a passing by dwarf stopped in my steps.


    [No, that is not the case but......] while replying that, I decided to inquire about the location of the adventurer''s guild bulletin board. If it''s there, I should be able to a request for a freelancer such as me, among the abundance of mining request.


    And so, I am currently facing the bulletin board. Compared to the previous town, there difference in the crowd gathering at the bulletin board is like day and night. Ara? I wonder if it is because there isn''t much request.


    Feeling bewildered, I approached the bulletin board to take a closer look at the content of the request. There was nothing but demon beast extermination and delivery related request. Let''s see, mining related request......


    [...Eh?]


    None. Nothing at all. There wasn''t a single mining related request.


    This cannot be. Because, all the cave I have seen so far, aren''t they all mines? If there''s so much of them, it is not possible for there to be zero mining related request.


    [Excuse me, I would like to ask you a question]


    Putting up a calm front, I ran to the nearby adventurer''s guild and called out to the female receptionist.


    [Aah, in this town any mining related requested is handled by the mining guild. Even if the request was made to us, the result is it will be redirected to them. It''s more efficient for the client that way]


    [Mining guild?]


    My perplexation was involuntarily verbalized. What''s that, there is such a guild?


    [After exiting the guild and taking a right turn, cross the small hill and you will reach the guilds headquarter. Do pay a visit if you''re interested]


    The receptionist told me this while putting on her business smile however, just from the name itself I can tell the place will reek of man. Also, if a girl was to go alone, she would definitely be made fun of. I would like to avoid going there as much as possible.


    [Th-thank you very much......]


    Expressing my gratitude, I relaxed my shoulders and left the guild. I wonder if there is some other way.


    ? ? ?


    [...Alright, I have decided]


    I did my research after that, and the conclusion was that was the only way to make mining request. In that case, before I traverse the man cave, I need to build up my courage. It so happens that my stomach is empty too.


    With that, I entered a cafeteria that I happened to spot.


    [Excuse me......geh]


    As I opened the door, it was that instant where I was assaulted by the hot air. Come to think of it, its currently noon, where it''s the timing where all the tough craftsman working at the mine would gather to feast.


    [Welcome. Seat wherever you like]


    [...I would like the seat at the terrace, thank you]


    That was my answer while trying to keep up my smile, wanting to be far from the bustle. Being hit by direct sunlight is bearable compared to that heat.


    [...Fuh. Thanks for the meal]


    Making the payment, I left the vicinity. By the way what I ordered was ¡¸Mine Curry¡¹. The vegetables were in chunky shapes to replicate the motif of ore, and the roux was deep red as if to represent magma.


    While the dish had a name, it actually tasted like Hayashi rice with a tomato base. In contrast to the crimson appearance, the dish was slightly sour and not spicy at all.


    [Now that my belly is filled, let''s do research on gems at the general store next]


    Method of building up courage ¢Ú. I decided to enter the nearby general store.


    Unexpectedly, this is the kind of place where you might find nice deal. To craft a fine gemstone, you must first look at good products. Well, the cauldron will be the one doing the work.


    [Woah, amazing]


    The moment I set foot into the store; a voice called out to me.


    While this place is a general store, the goods they are displaying would put a jewelry store to shame. As expected of a mining town. With multiple glittering gemstone for sales, this is irresistible to any girl.


    [Welcome. All the merchandise here are produced from the mine]


    It seems that I was treated as prospective customer due to my reaction, or because I was a girl in a neat dress who happened to stopped by. Either way, I am only hear to do my research and haven''t the slightest intention of purchasing any gemstone.


    Giving a slight nod, my glance switched to the showcase. An emerald chanced upon my eyes, along with the price tag of 20000 Fol. It seems for this is the price for this size, obnoxiously high indeed. Right next to it was a ruby priced at 12000 Fol. The value of a treasure is treasured.


    ...But this, if I could just get my hands on the ore, couldn''t I just make it with alchemy? Let''s snoop around a bit more.


    In front of the slanted-eyes attendant who seemed like they wanted had something to say, I opened my recipe book.


    ...Oooh, its recorded here all right. The general components of gem-based item needed to craft it are ore and abrasive. Is there any other requirement besides that I wonder.


    Skimming through the recipe book, I verified the method to craft other gemstones. Yes, it seems like if as long as you have both of the core material its enough.


    [Erm, dear customer?]


    [...Haaa]


    Witnessing an alchemist who was flipping through an blank book and talking to herself while sitting down, the store attendant called out once again. That was what brought me out of my own little bubble.


    [Pa-pardon me]


    Using words much unlike myself, thud. I shut the book and stood up with a composed face.


    [This may be a foolish question, but would this store happen to stock abrasive?]


    [Abrasive? Well, we do have them]


    [I would take them please, as many as possible]


    Conveying that to the attendant whose face was growing ever doubtful, I headed to the counter. At the same time, I decided to buy out the wheat here. It almost slipped my mind but it is the most important item in cooking. There is no harm in having excess. When it comes to alchemy, if there isn''t bread, neither will there be cake.

 Volume 1 - CH 10

    ~Volume 1: Life in a different world is tumultuous!?~


    Chapter 10 [At the mining town, Part 2]


    Raw: Volume 1 Chapter 10


    Boosting my courage with the act of lunch and purchase, I hardened my will and knocked on the door of the mining guild.


    [Excuse me]


    [What? Who is this little girl?]


    The mining guild was the complete opposite of the adventurer guild, with an unfriendly geezer serving as the receptionist who scowled at me the moment I entered.


    I already felt my will crumbling but I had no choice then to persist on and continued [I was wondering if there is any request I could get from here?]


    [If you want a quest, there is no reason for you to come to us is there. From the look of it, aren''t you from that minor alchemist guild, little girl?]


    That isn''t the case though? More like, there is such a guild in this town. It¡¯s the first time I heard of this.


    After explaining that I am independent and once again asking if they could spare me a request, [It''s impossible with that weak arm. Come back when you get stronger] was the taunt I got. I swear, he is so unapproachable.


    With my alchemy, I could gather the material in one day if they would let me. If that happens, things such as a mining guild would be obsolete. Joining an organization just to get the request is something I refuse to do. I am a freelancer!


    While all kind of thought were coming up, I had a flash of inspiration.


    ...That''s right. It''s not like I have to be a member forever.


    If that''s the case, I can just apply to join just for tomorrow only. [We don''t normally accept day labor] while prefacing his reply, [since it''s the request from a cute little girl like you, I will specially allow it. However, the membership fee will be 2000 Fol] he followed with an indecent smile. Eeh, there is a membership fee.


    [It''s ok if you don''t want to pay, you know? The oh-so great alchemist are usually poor anyway] he said with a mocking tone. Gununu, I will be sure to recover my loss, making that pledge in my heart. Reluctantly paying the fee, based on the amount of money I have spent so far, my savings is near to nothing. There is no going back.


    [Contract established. Well then, this is the request for today]


    Declaring that, the geezer showed me the request slip. Hmm. The content of the request is the excavation of 5 trolley of eldonia ore which is privy to this town. Any excess can be kept by the fulfiller. Aside from that, the reward is 3000 Fol. That should be enough to cover the membership fee from earlier, and the condition is pretty good too.


    [The location is here. You are to gather at the venue tomorrow morning. Don''t be late]


    Continuing on, I was passed a page of map. The excavation site is at the outskirt it seems. With the intention to compare it with the all-purpose map later however, from what I see, it isn''t too far away.


    [I understand. Well then, see you tomorrow]


    Recognizing that there I will not get any new information, I kept the map in my pocket and started heading out. Which was then I remembered something and made an U-turn


    [...By the way, please excuse me for asking but]


    [Huh? What else do you need?]


    Apparently, the geezer was caught off guard, and I witnessed him picking his nose. Excuse, me, what do you think you are doing in front of a lady.


    [Is there any bathhouse in this town?]


    [Bathhouse......do you mean the sauna? Go out, and it''s the third building from here]


    Pointing beyond the wall, the geezer explained lethargically. What I wanted was a bathhouse but a sauna is fine too. Let''s get ready.


    [Well, the sauna is usually used by the men. If you insist, how about I go with you?]


    He exclaimed while making a disgusting laugh. Aah, is that what it is like for this town''s sauna? Does it serve as a getaway for the miner?


    The imagination of a bunch of burly half naked man packed together gave me the chills. Me being inside that? I can''t even begin to imagine. Nope. Not happening.


    I desperately tried to maintain a forced smile, repeated [Well then, see you tomorrow] and exited the mining guild.


    Seems like it would be an early day tomorrow, I should make whatever preparation I need while I can.


    ? ? ?


    Relocating to the outskirts, I settled up the all-purpose tent as a resting place for good measure. There isn''t any rent for it too, seems like I will be counting on it today too.


    [Alright, it''s time to get started]


    Pulling myself together, I placed the cauldron on the ground and opened the recipe book. This time range is when I am at my best condition.


    [Ermmm......If I recall, a pickaxe that will act on its own accord......I remember seeing something like that]


    Mumbling that I browse through the recipe book. There it is. Fully Automated Pickaxe. The component are pickaxe and......fairy stone.


    Previously at the forest of Meno, I acquired a sizeable amount of fairy stone. As for the pickaxe, I picked it up from the town''s garbage collection point. Since it was once thrown away, there shouldn''t be any complains.


    Of course, they come with various defects such as a broken handle, rusted blade or some kind of deformation. It can''t be used at the state it is in. However, what I have here is the ultimate cauldron. No matter how poor the quality of the material, it''s an exceptional item that will craft the highest quality product from it.


    [Without further ado, let''s start mixing!]


    Poi, I carelessly dropped the materials, good and bad into the cauldron, and was soon greeted with the sight of a completed pickaxe.


    The appearance was a completely ordinary pickaxe but......is it really automated I wonder. Start digging!]


    I tried giving it a command, and it really started excavating the ground. Ooo, as expected of fully automated. If I own multiple of this, I won''t have to lift a single finger.


    [That''s enough, stop!] with that order, the pickaxe cease all activity. After that, I started mass production.


    [Should I make bombs at the same time I wonder]


    Modern mining as we know it are commonly conducted with explosive. In this world where bombs are treated as rare objects, however I will use them remorselessly.


    [Transmutation in bulk! All material at once! Toryaa!]


    Letting my voice out, I threw material into the cauldron one after another. Originally, alchemy is about checking each and every material before putting them into the cauldron, and then carefully mixing them, a process that takes a long time. However, this here is the ultimate cauldron. Even if a bunch of unrelated material are jumbled up, as long as you have the image of what you want to make in your mind, it will take shape.


    And so, in the time limit possible, a total of 10 fully automated pickaxe and 20 bomb were prepared. That marks the end of today''s work and I retreated into the all-purpose tent to get everything set for tomorrow.

 Volume 1 - CH 11

    Chapter 11 [At the mining town, Part 3]


    [You are here. I have been waiting]


    The following day. While rubbing my half-awake eyes, I followed the all-purpose map and reached the mine.


    When I arrived, there stood the receptionist from yesterday.


    [Eh? Why are you here Mr. Receptionist?]


    [Who are you calling Mr. Receptionist. I am the site supervisor]


    He boasted proudly. Rather, the site supervisor was doing reception? There is a limit to wasting human resource.


    [Supervisor, the last person, is it this girl?]


    [Can a girl do mining work? It''s not like you hired her to be in charge of meals, right?]


    Besides the supervisor was two men. While they looked the part, their physique is on the slender side and doesn''t seem suited for mining labor.


    Despite that, their expression was that of scorn. How unpleasant.


    [Don''t be like that. You too, your appearance isn''t very suited for mining. Fitting clothes have been prepared so go and change behind that rock or something]


    Whoosh, a set of worn-out work clothes was put in front of me.


    [Unfortunately for you, I will work in this appearance]


    Conveying that with a smile to him after glancing at the clothing. The supervisor raised his eyebrow for a moment and said [Well whatever. The collection point is here. Follow me] and pointed at the entrance while walking.


    ? ? ?


    With a lantern in hand, I turned left and right in the tunnel, going through the same scenery multiple times. Anybody who is not familiarized with this will surely get lost]


    [Here we are. This is today''s spot]


    Suddenly I was greeted by the sight of torches illuminating the celling while deep in thoughts. The wideness of the area is comparable to that of a gymnasium.


    [We hold the rights to excavate this area, dig as much as you like. After a good amount of soil have accumulated, place it on that trolley and transport it out]


    Towards the spot where he nodded to was a well-used trolley. While it was within my expectation but this truly is a classic way of doing things.


    [From what I see, you don''t seem to own a pickaxe little girl. I will grace you with this]


    I have stored all my tools in the bag of infinite capacity, but the supervisor is unaware of that fact and passed me a worn-out pickaxe. This is only usable as material.


    Looking at the pickaxe without a single word, the supervisor said [Well, do your best] and sat down at the nearby rock. I see how it is, because he is the site supervisor, all he is going to do is watch others work]


    [Hey woman, hurry up and begin]


    [Don''t drag!]


    The two miners begin work as if they have done this a thousand time while yelling at me. In that case, witness the abilities of Mei the alchemist.


    Letting up a deep breath, I retrieved the fully automated pickaxe from the bag and lined them up evenly.


    [Oi oi, what are you going to do with those pickaxes after lining them up] I paid no heed to the ridicule from the supervisor.


    [Go, fully automated pickaxe squad!]


    Pointing at the mud wall while giving my instructions, the lump of steel at the ground sprung up with life and began eroding the rock. Yes, what a great feeling.


    [W-what the hell is that]


    Including the supervisor, the site personnel were all focused on the excavation work of the alchemist. Fufufu. Well, are you surprised!


    There is a good amount of pickaxe with unparallel sharpness born from the ultimate cauldron. Thanks to that aggregate were piling up at a fast speed.


    [Little girl, are you a magus or something?]


    [I am an alchemist] despite me replying with a harsher tone, it doesn''t seem like the supervisor understood. His body was trembling as he stood up from the rock.


    [Come on, hurry up and bring it outside]


    He called out to the two worker who similarly were stunned by what they were witnessing. They returned to their senses, and replaced their pickaxe with a mesh that looked like dustpan to start the transportation.


    [Ah, oi. We just need 5 trolley worth; you know that right?]


    [Yes, I understand. However, I will take the surplus]


    I heard the voice of the site supervisor from behind me. [We finished early so, could you help us with the transportation?] as he posts that question, he joined the two workers with a perplexed expression. Even then, it does seem tough to transport the soil via trolley with just three people.


    [Umm, I do not understand the in and out of mining, but at this rate no matter how fast the excavation is there''s no point if there''s isn''t enough transporter. Is there any way I wonder]


    Looking at the soil that have built up to the size of a small hill, then at the three man desperately working, I took out the cauldron and recipe book.


    ...There is it. Let''s go with this.


    What I found was the fully automated scoop. The necessary material is wood, steel and of course, fairy stone. All of them can be found inside the bag, the quantity that could be produced seems to be 5.


    [Well then, let''s start mixing!]


    I immediately begin the crafting process. It was a familiar sight with material being dumped in, rainbow color and of course, the final product.


    [Failure is not in my dictionary]


    Declaring that to no one in particular, I immediately put the fully automated scoop to use. Similar to the pickaxe, soil was being loaded on to the trolley at lightning speed. Alright, this is twice the speed! Hahaha--!


    I took a sit on the of a rock, and laughed as the automated tools did whatever they needed to. It''s a little too late to be saying this but so this is how it feels to be the site supervisor.


    ? ? ?


    [P-please stop it---!]


    By before noon of the day, the supervisor was in tears.


    Well, that would be the case. The excavation site that was originally the size of a gymnasium have been expended to 1.5 its size. That would be due to the destruction of bedrock with explosive which changed the terrain.


    Currently the amount of soil that have been excavated, converted to trolley unit would be......about more than 20 trollies. I stopped counting halfway so I do not know the exact number.


    [Alright then, as per the contract I will be claiming the surplus soil]


    After the completion of work and exiting, there was literally a mountain mixed with ore made out of a molehill.


    With the amount that far surpassed expectations, [I don''t mind but, how are you going to move it] the supervisor posed the question with a pessimistic expression which I assured him [Don''t worry, this bag can fit everything] while hitting the exterior.


    Next, I opened the bag, and the sound made was as if a vacuum cleaner was sucking up the ground. While this much was in my expectation, it''s still a spectacle.


    [Now I need research the crafting method for gemstone......let''s see]


    After witnessing the small bag drinking up the hill, I flipped through the page of the recipe book besides the flabbergasted trio. There it is. Ruby and also sapphire. Both familiar names.


    By the way, regarding the bag of unlimited capacity. It possesses the ability to disassemble material but it can also store an item in its current state. Both of these functions can be controlled by my will easily. This is why completed product such as the bomb, map and tent aren''t changed into their base material.


    Thus, with the disassembly function, it meant that I basically got a large number of ore from the soil. The hill in front is truly a treasure pile.


    [Great, I am done!]


    Eventually the mountain that was several times that of a person''s height was packed nicely into the bag. The weight also didn''t change when I carried it. As expected of a cheat time.


    They say life is about trying, wasting no time I toss the abrasive and ruby ore into the cauldron. In a short while, a glittering gemstone was born. Normally this process would require a skilled craftsman to spend days polishing was skipped, amazing.


    [Before I forget, I recall the reward for the request was 3000 Fol. Tomorrow, I will come over to collect it so please be sure to prepare it, ok?]


    Conveying that to the supervisor and putting out the gemstone to the sunray, I left the mine with a satisfied face.

 Volume 1 - CH 12

    Choosing the appropriate ore and the abrasive worth 200 Fol, they were tossed into cauldron and within seconds, a radiant gemstone was born.


    With that in hand, I entered a general store and got around 3000 Fol for it.


    Since I have a large quantity of ore, I used the profit to purchase abrasive. Repeating the process of buying and selling to acquire my funds.


    It truly is as if I am transmuting gold via alchemy. Well, it is alchemy.


    Regardless, if I keep looping this process, I will never run out of money......or so I thought ecstatically.


    [Sorry but we are no longer accepting trade in for gemstone......]


    This life of crafting and selling continued for 3 days. When my earning was 80000 Fol, there was a stoppage from the general store.


    The reason was simple, they were running out of savings.


    Now that I think about it, if isn''t a town inhabited mostly by the wealthy, the gemstone wouldn''t be selling like hotcakes. Even for a shop, if they are unable to clear their stock, they wouldn''t be able to make a living.


    So, this is the difference between a game world and an alternate world with actual people living in it......was what I muttered to myself. Money isn''t infinite here.


    At that instance, I recalled my original objective. Money is important but I am a travelling alchemist. Life here wouldn''t be too bad but there is no excitement.


    [...Let''s go on a trip]


    With that renewed determination in my heart, I opened the all-purpose map and decided on my next course of action.


    [...Hmm?]


    The surrounding of the town I am currently at is surrounded my mountains. Even if I zoomed out, the next town isn''t reachable without crossing the mountain]


    [Crossing the mountain......]


    It''s nearing noon so even if I depart now there is a limit to the distance I can cover. If I enter the mountain now, I would need to camp out. Well, with the all-purpose tent it would be comfortable but there''s the opportunity, I wonder if there''s a village near the foot of the mountain that I could lodge at.


    Thinking that, I repeatedly zoomed in and out at the map until I spotted a village not far from the mountain foot. Magnifying it, there really is one was my thought.


    [That''s ok. Let''s go and see]


    Recently, I have been only stopping by cities so the opposite might be good for a change. There might be the scenery of a countryside too.


    Moving on, I left the mining city that I was in the care of and made for the village by foot.


    ? ? ?


    [Wait a minute. Stop]


    After just a few steps, I halted and sat at the side of the road. This terrain is really tedious to walk on.


    Technically, the village in mind can be reached via foot. However, there obviously isn''t any pavement and as it is near the mountain, it wouldn''t be weird for rock to fall around the area. If I let my guard down, there is no avoiding spraining my leg.


    [Is there any tool that would aid in travelling I wonder]


    Taking out the recipe book from the bag and searching, there was a carriage composed of pumpkin and rat that seems convenient if crafted. Ah, it''s not like I want to be Cinderella you know? If a weird prince or something entered the picture, I would blow him away with my bombs.


    [Ah, this would work]


    What was written in the page I got to was the flying carpet and witch''s broom. It truly is the item I need. I want to make it.


    But, the flying carpet......the required material is Pterosauria''s scale which reeks of danger so I gave up on it.


    Then, what about the witch''s broom? Does it require a mandrake.....I confirmed the recipe as I wondered and turns out it was way simpler. All I need is wood and bird''s feather.


    [Erm, I think I gathered a good amount of both material]


    Checking and taking out the material while murmuring, and indeed the quantity was sufficient.


    Suddenly, I had the thought that if I put a whole bird into the bag, would it be disassembled into poultry and material......or so I thought but I would feel bad for them if that happened. Un, protecting animal is important.


    As the wind was hitting me, I put the wood followed by feather into the cauldron. Uwah, it stinks of bird!


    ...Afterwards, a fine broomstick was spit out by the cauldron. It looked exactly as I imagine it would. This was made using feather but the appearance is that of a regular broom.


    The only unordinary thing was that it was floating about 1 meter from the ground. Is this safe to ride I wonder.


    [Well, it''s created by the ultimate cauldron so it would be safe. Alright, time to give it a test run.


    I cleared the tools sitting around and got on the broom.


    Boing, the reaction was as if it was attached with an invisible spring and my body was stabilized. Ooh, it feels kinda good.


    By the way, how do I maneuver this I wonder. There isn''t an accelerator nor a brake, and I have never heard of a broom driving course.


    Reciting [Ascend!] without much thought, in respond I was brought to a higher altitude. From my estimation I am currently floating at around the height of a utility pole.


    Continuing with [Advance!], it gradually gained speed. In my previous life I went to school via bicycle but this is faster than that. From my feeling this would be 30 kph or so.


    ...Ensuing, I practiced for a total of 15 minutes. Just by thinking I am able to control the movement, it''s fun after I get used to it.


    [Well then, head towards the village at full speed!]


    Floating to the peak, the broom then accelerated. Even though there isn''t any obstacle, it was quite the speed.


    [Woah, this is fun!]


    I do not understand the mechanic but, the broom was a perfect fit so I don''t have the slightest feeling that I would get thrown off it. Furthermore, it moves exactly the way I want, this is splendid.


    Not having to care rough roads, I regret not making this earlier.


    Fufufuun. As I was enjoying the air travel mixed with humming, a river came into my sight. The bridge was being washed away by the rising tide, perhaps from water being added through flowing from the mountain.


    [Well, it doesn''t concern me]


    Glancing at the wreckage of the bridge, I crossed the river. It''s not high enough that I could fly over the mountain in one go but......if it''s just this river it should be a breeze to cross.


    [...Ara?]


    Traversing over the river, the village is just a bit more......it was around that distance I noticed a fallen figure. The size wasn''t too big, it seems like it''s a child.


    [Emergency stop!]


    While the control can be done with my thoughts alone, I couldn''t help but raise my voice. Descending, I then carefully landed near the child. Is he still alive¡­¡­?

 Volume 1 - CH 13

    Chapter 13 [At the mountain foot village, part 1]


    While leisurely riding the broom, I discovered a powerless child lying on the ground. From his features, it seems like he is a boy.


    [Hey, laddie? Are you ok?]


    It''s not as if I could ignore it, so firstly I called out to him while giving that tiny frame a small shake. Shortly after [Uuu......] he groaned as he opened his eyes. Thank God, he''s alive.


    [W-who are you, big sis?]


    The child with walnut brown hair sat up and looked at me with a distressed face. Waking up to a stranger in front of them, anybody would be on guard too.


    [I am a travelling alchemist. What are you doing in such a place?]


    [While on the way to buy medicine at the town, a dragon attacked me and I fainted]


    ...Hmm? Wait a minute. Dragon? Such a dangerous being appears around this area?


    [If demon beast lives here this place is dangerous. Shall we move to the village for now?]


    [But daddy hurt his waist. If I don''t buy medicine for him......]


    The boy around the age of an elementary schooler was desperately trying to hold back his tear. Uwah, anything but this expression, it''s too effect.


    Argh alright, I guess I have no choice. Before being an alchemist otaku, I am a human. Let''s help him.


    [If it''s just medicine, I can prepare as much as you like. Let''s return to your house first. Come on, lead the way]


    Either way, even if we proceed from here the bridge is already gone. While saying that, I pressured the boy into getting on the broom and started moving towards the village at a leisure speed.


    Lord, I am doing a good deed so please don''t let me encounter the dragon.


    ? ? ?


    Enroute to the village, the boy proclaimed his name as Tim and I learned that he was living with his father and big sister.


    [Big sis alchemist, that is my village!]


    The village that Tim-kun guided me had the impression of a deserted. There was less than 10 residence and besides them was a small field each. It didn''t seem like there was plantation there, instead the seedling planted were on the brink of death.


    ...Could it be that this village''s existence is currently in danger I wonder. Not only is the field in a bad shape, there also isn''t a single soul outdoor.


    I was fantasizing about the local delicacy of an agricultural village......it doesn''t seem like they can even feed themselves, much less traveler.


    Still, now that I learned the circumstances, it''s not like I can just say [I see, goodbye]......while pondering we have reached Tim-kun''s house.


    [Tim! Where did you go!]


    Opening the fragile door, a girl rushed towards Tim-kun and hit his head.


    As she looked at Tim-kun who had a tearful face, she noticed me. Probably, she is the big sister?


    [Erm, who might you be big sister?]


    [Ehh, well. I am a travelling alchemist. The name''s Mei]


    [Haaa.....miss alchemist, why are you with my brother?]


    The big sister looked at me with a guise of doubt. Alchemist is really minor in this world huh. Well, I am getting used to it.


    Tim-kun whose original role was to explain the situation was in no state to, so I did it instead. From him getting attacked by a dragon, heading out to buy medicine for their father, the bridge getting washed away, I gave her a run-down of the event.


    [Such a thing happened......! Jeez! I have told you multiple times that the outskirt was dangerous and not to venture out alone! Tim, you stupid!]


    Whack, yet another fist descended on the crying boy. When it rains, it pours. Poor thing.


    [Now, now let''s all calm down] with that I de-escalate the scene. Afterwards, the sister introduced herself as Liddie. I see, so she''s Liddie-chan.


    She who has the same walnut colored hair in braid walked up to me [Sorry for the trouble my brother has caused you. Thank you for saving him] she thanked me while politely bowing. From appearance she seems to be around 10, but her mannerism is strangely mature.


    [So, I have promised Tim-kun I will prepare medicine for him. How''s your father''s waist?]


    [It isn''t the best. He''s currently asleep. This is all because he got cursed by a witch]


    [Eh......isn''t that an important detail?]


    Witch''s curse? While mulling over if a medicine can really fix that, Liddie-chan led me to the room where the father was.


    [Ugh, ugh. Ouch......]


    As I stepped foot into the house, there was the figure of a man buried in the bed. When I called out to him, I learned his name is Danan. Let''s start with a simple interview


    With that said, I am an alchemist not a doctor, the knowledge of modern medicine I have possess is the bare minimum.


    [Do you have any idea what caused the injury? For example, handling heavy objects]


    [Ah......while I was working on the field, I put in more strength that usual into swinging the hoe. It was then when I experienced a sudden sharp pain. There''s no doubt this is the curse of a witch]


    [...Isn''t that just a back strain?]


    [Eh?]


    I couldn''t help but blurt out my thoughts, and was greeted with a surprised look. Incidentally, is the west they call back strain a witch shot. Could that have something to do with this I wonder.


    [Please hang on for a while. I will prepare the medicine now]


    Saying that, I placed the cauldron on an empty space in the bedroom. Apparently, Danan-san was affected as I heard bizarre sound that went [Ugyah].


    [Erm, a poultice-like medicine, I recall seeing one]


    Taking out the recipe book as usual, from the direction of the bed [Don''t tell me, you will be preparing the medicine right now?] an unease voice was relayed to me. It''s not as if I am going to crush the herb from scratch, and I reassured them that it will be done in no time. I would like to concentrate so the silence would help.


    [Ah, there it is]


    After a while, I found a suiting tool. The name is ¡¸Wet cloth¡¹. Uhm, exactly as it is.


    Seems like I will be making ointment and cloth, so let''s start with the former.


    St. John''s Wort, St. John''s Wort come out......with that in thought I fished for it in my bag but returned empty-handed. Don''t tell me, I do not have this material?


    [Eeeeh, one moment please. Where does this grow]


    I protested to the recipe book but needless to say I did not get a reply.


    This child, as a recipe book it''s excellent but sometimes it slips up. While it records the material''s name, I wonder if it could have the function to tell me the collection point too, I wonder......while deep in my thoughts [Erm......] Liddie-chan called out with a raised hand.


    [If it''s that herb you can find it at the outskirt. It''s the specialty of this region]


    She said with a boasting tone. Ah, specialty product. So that''s how it is.


    I have collected various plants so far but the fact that I do not have this makes sense now. This pattern is the most troublesome when it comes to material collection. If the material is endemic to a certain region, it means replenishing them will be difficult.


    [Are you going to tell me the location where this herb grows at?]


    As I probe, I hired Liddie-chan as the guide. [I will go to!] Tim-kun sprung up declaring that, only to be met by Liddie-chan cold response of [Until I come back, you are not allowed to leave the house]. Ignoring Tim-kun protest, Liddie-chan brought me outside.


    Uhm. What I thought was a simple task have become a difficult voyage. Just kidding.

 Volume 1 - CH 14

    [Tons of St. John''s Wort grows inside this forest]


    Led by Liddie-chan, the travelling time was around 20 minutes. As the broom wasn''t usable inside the dense forest, we had no choice but to walk.


    The entanglement from the surrounding ivy made it tedious to traverse. I am starting to feel this is not worth the effort. If I let the father drink tons of potion, would it cure his waist I wonder.


    Before that, it feels like over-the-counter medicine would work if it''s just a strained back. The problem is how would the children feed themselves while he is recuperating, if I prepare provisions to last them for those few days......


    ...Entertaining that thought, I was interrupted by Liddie-chan voice [Here it is. We have arrived]


    Returning to myself I scanned my surroundings. Without realizing we have to the clearing and am now at a meadow around my knee''s height. Heh, to think there is such a place within the forest.


    [This red grass is it. Normally it''s used as medicine but it''s also a dye component]


    Within the grass field was a long red plant. Pointing to that, Liddie-chan exclaimed. What a beautiful color. While the recipe book depicts the completed product, that is not true for the ingredient. It''s probably important to see the real thing.


    [Well then, let''s take a few]


    Seeing that I am in front of a little girl, I dropped the pretense of having to use a different tone and collected the herb. Not knowing how much herb is needed but presumably 20 should be enough.


    [Ah, this grass emits red syrup so be sure not to stain yourself]


    [Ugyah!?]


    Cutting off the stem, at the same type a deep red liquid started flowing out. Gush. What the hell is this!? It''s as if it is blood. Graphic! Too graphical! What the hell!?


    [That''s why I told you to be careful didn''t I]


    My waist dropped from the shock but Liddie-chan who was beside me continued picking the herb normally. I wonder if she does this usually, she''s used to it.


    Previously, I crafted the fully automated hand sickle for a harvesting request but I am glad I didn''t use it. The scene would be straight up from a splatter.


    ? ? ?


    [Ok. Is this enough? Should we collect more?]


    ...30 minute have passed since then. With a bloodied appearance......incorrect, Liddie-chan who was soaked with red liquid passed me the collected herb with a smiling face. As I am averse to handling it with my bare hands, I opened the bag of infinite capacity and asked her to toss it inside. [Won''t the inside of the bag get soiled?] was the question she posed but it''s fine since it''s infinite capacity.


    [In that case, let''s go Liddie-chan. I am counting on your navigation again]


    With this the ointment is all but done......in the moment I thought that, a shadow loomed over us. Did the cloud started to form or something I wonder.


    [......Huh?]


    Looking up without a care, there it was. A magnificent silver figure covered in scale with two gigantic wings, the advent of a flying dragon. C-c-could this be the dragon that attacked Tim-kun!? We encountered it-!?


    I felt like fleeing from the scene at the first chance I get but seeing the appearance of Liddie-chan who was blue with fear calmed me down. Aa, this is one of those situations where fleeing is not an option.


    [Ey! I am the strongest alchemist, Mei! Your opponent is me!]


    Purposely raising my voice to draw the dragon''s attention from Liddie-chan, I reached for the bomb in my pocket. This is the only weapon I currently have.


    It''s true that I have battled the wolves in the forest previously, however they are creatures that exist in my original world too. Even I am afraid of a dragon. His appearance is sturdy too.


    [Liddie-chan, duck! Let''s have a clean good fight! Deryaah--!]


    As if to disperse my fear, I spouted whatever came to my mind as I threw the bomb. The next moment, a thundering sound was rung.


    [Awaaah--!?]


    Receiving the brunt of the wind impact, I covered Liddie-chan with my body. Opening my eyes which I couldn''t help my close, the sight of the dragon lying on the ground greeted me.


    Cautiously regaining my posture, the surrounding trees mowed down radially was a testament to the intensity of the shockwave. I forgot. This firepower of this bomb is really high.


    [B-big sister alchemist. Amazing. You defeated the dragon]


    Liddie-chan who stood up following me looked at me with an envious expression. This is kinda embarrassing.


    [W-well it seems like it''s still breathing so let''s escape before it recovers. Come on, get on]


    Asserting that in an attempt to conceal my embarrassment, I took out the the witch''s broom from my bag. Due to the impact knocking down the trees, the view is much clearer and it''s now possible to cross using the broom.


    [So, you aren''t an alchemist but Ms. Witch] ignoring Liddie-chan question, we made for the village at full speed.

 Volume 1 - CH 15

    Right after returning to the village with Liddie-chan, I swiftly crafted the medical cloth and pasted it on Danan-san''s waist.


    Incidentally, the completed product was much unlike the wet cloth that I know as it was crimson red in color, as if it was bloodied. It can''t be helped since it''s the color of the material but I wonder if there''s a little extra, I could do the alleviate it.


    On the other hand, the medicine was potent enough that he was able to get out of bed the next day. It¡¯s just a strained back after all.


    [Please let us repay you in some way] in response to Danan-san''s sincerity, I took up the offer and requested for accommodation in the village for a while more.


    The reason is simple. From the past few days I spent in this village, I was overcame by despair from the state of the environment.


    Thanks to the windfall of earning from the previous town I have the room for spending. It''s precisely from improving this kind of situation that I have the best chance of spreading my name as an alchemist.


    Without further ado, let''s start hearing from Tim-kun''s family.


    [Maybe it''s because this village is located at the foot of the mountain, but the exposure to sunlight is a short time, as such crops are unable to grow properly] Danan-san responded. From the plight of the field, I perfectly understand the sentiment.


    [The improvement of the field''s environment, huh......]


    Rubbing my temple and opening the recipe book, I found the recipe for artificial sun in no time. However, one of the components is an unknown item called the element of sun so the it is rejected.


    Continuing, if the sun cannot be depended on, then we have to turn to the power of the earth......was the conclusion I reached. Turning the recipe book, I decided to make organic fertilizer.


    The required ingredient is soil, ash, grass and also the like of fishes. Basically, the method isn''t much different from my original world. I don''t need to go out of the way to make it with alchemy......that''s how simple it is. Well, the difference in the preparation time is a factor of course.


    [It''s done. Please scatter this around the field]


    Saying that I passed the bottle to Danan-san, [Haa] he questioned with a baffled look on his face. Seems like he doesn''t understand the purpose of the fertilizer.


    As I have nothing to do, I gave a basic explanation about the fertilizer. Danan-san doesn''t seem like he comprehends as usual, in contrast Liddie-chan who seems like she is interested in such topic was listening to the lecture seriously.


    Seeing the prospect, I also taught her the way to make the fertilizer.


    Burying leftover food in the field, gathering pulled weed and fallen leaves to make mulch via fermentation, various method was passed down.


    My mother''s hobby was gardening, and I also did a bit of surfing regarding it back in my previous life. I didn''t think that it would come to use here however.


    The process to make the fertilizer would take about half a year, and until it is ready to be used, they can just use mine at the meantime. There is a forest nearby so the mulch is no issue too. If the soil is smoother, it would be easier to plow so Danan-san wouldn''t risk getting a strained back as much.


    ......Even still, I am amazed this village is able to survive with this kind of food management. Their dye is the specialty but I don''t see any store here.


    ? ? ?


    [Erm, could I talk to you regarding another matter]


    After solving the field''s problem, the next day another man consulted me regarding the traffic situation. According to him, due to the falling rocks the mountain pass slightly further from this village have been blocked.


    I planned on using that road on my way to the next trip so I got rid of the boulder with explosive. As usual, the firepower is a little too strong and the shape of the mountain was slightly altered but it''s fine I suppose.


    At the same time, I also fixed the bridge connecting to the mining city. Sturdy construction material......I searched for something along the line in the recipe book and found something good. It''s hard to explain but it''s similar to hardened concrete.


    That require tons of rock and soil but since I acquired them from the mine previously, it went without a hitch. The creation was simple but it looked tough enough that the overflowing water shouldn''t wash it away.


    [Miss witch, thank you for lending your knowledge for the sake of this small village]


    [Eh? Well, it just ended up that way]


    As thing progresses, even the village chief made his appearance. I learned this now but apparently in this world they address the elite of the magus (mainly female) as ¡¸Witch¡¹. More like, I am an alchemist! Not a witch!


    [Not only did you clear the boulder, you even helped fixed the bridge with magic. With this, the caravan should start coming here]


    The chief continued with a face full of life. Ah, now I see. This is why they don''t have a store. Relying on travelling sales, is this some marginal settlement I swear. No wonder it''s deserted.


    Later in the day, I shut myself in the room at night and did preparation work till late night. Specifically on protective equipment such as anti-dragon bomb and bulletproof waistcoat.


    Once I leave this settlement, I will be crossing the mountain alone. Until now, I thought just having food and shelter will be enough, but encountering the dragon taught me otherwise. The feeling of intimidation and fear is something I will never forget.


    [Lightning bomb, ice bomb, invisible shield and auto battle sword......]


    I looked at pages that I have never bothered to till now containing weapon and tools for battle and made them one after another. Well, it''s best if I don''t have to use them but I want to be ready for any kind of situation. Preparation is the key to success. Truer words were never spoken.


    [Alright, with this I am fully prepared!]


    Making preparation to my best ability, I decided to depart from the village.


    ? ? ?


    The day of departure have dawned and majority of the villager were present to see my off.


    [Thank you, miss witch!]


    [Please drop by the village again!]


    [Like I said, I am not a witch but an alchemist-!]


    With my last rebuttal, I hoped on the witch''s broom and dashed into the air. More like, isn''t this broom a culprit behind the reason that I am being called a witch.


    [Big sister, please come again-!]


    [Goodbye-!]


    The sibling Liddie-chan and Tim-kun were in the front and waving their hand repeatedly. Ah, I think I am starting to feel sentimental.


    To hide my expression that was breaking down, I unthinkingly turned my head ahead and returned the wave with one of my own

 Volume 1 - CH 16

    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. Departing from the village and entering the mountain. It would seem that I am completely lost.


    How did I get lost even with the all-purpose map! While that was my thoughts, a map is meant to be read on a flat surface. When I actually go to the area it is three-dimensional so even if I think [This path will work!] the reality is often quite different.


    Well, thanks to the witch''s broom navigation is enjoyable and there is no lack of food too. The all-purpose tent also serves as a shelter. Using the enemy radar function of the all-purpose map, fortunately I will not encounter any dragon. All I have been doing is wandering around in the mountain.


    [Uwaaah---! Where am I---!?]


    In a cave that was too narrow for the usage of the broom, just when I thought I finally made it out I was greeted by a deep valley. Crossing mountains after mountains, I let out a cry of desperation and in return my voice was reflected as echo.


    Hearing the sound made me calm down, and I sat down while catching my breath. No longer have the strength to return to the cave and the sky is getting dark, I have decided. This will be the camping ground.


    Taking out the tent like I have done so a thousand times, I retreated into it. Incidentally, while the tent is occupied it seems that some kind of cognitive interference effect is applied and not once have been attacked by the monsters nearby. Well, I was prepared for death that one time I got out of the tent in the morning and a bear was sleeping right in front of it.


    [Erm, how many days does this make? I feel like it''s the third or fourth]


    Inside the tent, I let the pen do its work on the notepad. As I was too bored in the mountain, I being recording a travel log. This was like my summer vacation''s picture diary except that I already ran out of stuff to write.


    After I am done with the diary, I made food with ingredient I picked without much thinking. Today''s dish is Mapo Tofu. Authentic Sichuan-style. The taste is exquisitely delicious too. Just by tossing the beans and spices into cauldron and this was the result. I still do not get the mechanic up to this day but it''s tasty so whatever.


    Finishing my meal, I lied down on the sofa and gazed at the all-purpose map once again. The layout is so confusing, this mountain. Since it can even bring out weather information, I wonder if there is any function to search for a route. Even better if there a navigation function such as telling me that the shortest route is to go straight through the precipitous cliff, or something like that. I feel like the current me can find a way to cross the valley if I try hard enough.


    [Haaa]


    Closing the map with a sigh, this time I opened the recipe book. It''s not as if there is an aircon but their temperature is kept constant so it feels really great. Now for the way to kill time, at time like this it''s limited to flipping through the recipe book.


    Going through the daily necessity category and what caught my eye was the fully automated bathtub.


    [Bath huh]


    Come to think of it, I haven''t entered a bath ever since I came to this world. There was a sauna at the mining city but I gave up as it seemed to be male-only.


    I do not know what the common sense of this world is but my heart is that of a modern Japanese. The urge to take a bath daily is there. Once I started on this line of thought, the fully automated bathtub was a every enticing item.


    [Alright. Let''s make the bath]


    Even if I have the means of transportation, these few days I have been crossing the mountain by foot. The fatigue on my legs have been building up, and what is better than a bath to heal it.


    With that, I step out of the tent for now and settled the cauldron. It''s not like I can boil bathwater inside the tent. The tent will get drenched.


    [Ok, the needed material are steel and gunpowder, also oil and water and......]


    As expected of a large-scale tool, the needed material is a lot. I do not possess enough steel on hand so I had no choice but to recycle it from half of the fully automated pickaxe I have. Dear pickaxe, thank you for your service at the mine. It''s regrettable but please sacrifice yourself for the sake of my bath.


    [There we go, it''s done-!]


    Inputting all the material, eventually a big bathtub was born. Uwah, this is amazing.


    If I didn''t have the bag of unlimited capacity transporting his would be a chore. With that in mind I started unbuttoning my shirt from the chest area gleefully.


    [......Haa]


    Hold it. My tension was off the due to the excitement but this place is inside a mountain. I almost undressed in the midst of great nature.


    All I have to do is craft an item to obscure the surrounding of the bathtub but such alchemy doesn''t exist. I returned to the tent in a panic and returned robed in a single towel.


    [The mountain breeze is rough but it''s time like this that I have to be defiant and think of it as an open bath]


    Swiftly pouring the hot water, I took a soak in the bathtub. Fuwaa, I am feeling rejuvenated.


    It''s not as if there was any kind of special adjustment but the temperature was just nice. My body all the way to its core was warmed and the sun begin to set. Wow! what a great view! What a great view!


    [...Ah]


    Now that I am warmed up, it''s time to wash my head......or so I thought until I realized that I didn''t have shampoo.


    This pattern, it''s asking to be made.


    It''s not like I have any basis but that''s what I muttered. Turning the pages of the recipe book while still in the bath, there it was. The name is ¡¸Rinse in Shampoo¡¹. Literally.


    [Ingredients are......vegetable oil, ash and salt are needed]


    Confirming the ingredient and doing the familiar process of crafting. More like, what am I doing with nothing but a towel. I can''t show anybody this appearance.


    [Alright, complete! Ah-ahchoo!]


    At the same time the shampoo bottle was created, I let out a big sneeze. The mountain breeze is cold and if I slip out, I might catch a cold. If I fell sick here it would be a life and death problem. Taking a brief rinse, I immersed myself into the bathtub once again.


    ? ? ?


    [Hmm? All-purpose map ¡¤ Modified]


    Getting out of the bath and looking through the recipe book, I spotted this page. Basically, if I fuse new material to the all-purpose map I have on hand, I can upgrade its function]


    [Don''t tell me, there is the possibility of a navigation function if I strengthen it! If that''s the case, I can say goodbye to this labyrinth!]


    With renewed hope, I started looking up the required material. If I can make it, I want to do it as soon as possible to test it.


    [...The required material is, Drake''s Eyeball?]


    By drake''s eyeball, it doesn''t seem like it''s a metaphor or something so does it mean, that drake......a dragon''s eyeball. Such a material is needed?


    It''s true that dragon have the image of looking down from above with their eyes, so it''s only natural that it is needed to strengthen the map.


    Even still of all thing, a drake......I have been using this map to avoid any encounter with the dragon and now it''s asking me to purposely find one? The irony.


    [Uun, what should I do]


    ...That night, this was all I could think about in the tent.

 Volume 1 - CH 17

    ~Volume 1: Life in a different world is tumultuous!?~


    Chapter 17 [Subjugation at the dragon¡¯s mountain]


    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. In order to acquire the material ¡¸Drake''s eyeball¡¹ for the upgrading of the all-purpose map, I made up my mind to subjugate a dragon.


    [...There it is, that''s a dragon all right]


    A dragon will be at a high place, and I headed for the peak. Indeed, my assumption were correct. Looking to be a red dragon of around 3 meter long. Thankfully, it seemed to be sleeping.


    [Ok, I will finish it in one strike while it''s off guard......]


    Gaining a distance away from it, I reached for the anti-dragon bomb in my pocket. It''s untypical for an alchemist to do this, but beggar can''t be chooser.


    [One, two......]


    Making the motion like a pitcher, it was that exact moment I heard an outrageous roar from behind.


    In response to it, I turned around and my heart almost stopped. There was a blue dragon behind me in additional to the one in front of me.


    [Awaa!?]


    I couldn''t help but roll over to the sides and from directly behind me the blue dragon breathed fire which charred the end of my rope.


    [THAT WAS CLOSE]


    I crawled over a nearby rock for cover and was waiting for a follow-up attack. What happened however was the other dragon waking up from the commotion and begin fighting back with its fire breath. In conclusion, a battle with two dragons have begun. Don''t tell me, I chose the worse timing to come here?


    [Eeeek]


    Taking cover in the rock''s shadow, the two dragon continued spitting fire as if they were flamethrowers. When their flame collides, it caused a burst which melted the rock surface. A roar followed with tremendous power. It''s as if it''s a kaiju film.


    Speaking of which, the scene of humans desperately trying to escape after being involved in the battle of two creature with overwhelming power......I felt like there was such a movie. That is basically my current situation.


    As I followed the trails of my memory to the conclusion of the movie......I recall it wasn''t a pretty ending for humanity which made me even more pessimistic.


    [Whatever shall I do I wonder......]


    Roaring and swaying flames surrounding me which put me at a loss. It will be the best if they take out each other but at this rate I will be the first one to fall.


    The invisible shield I crafted previously was deployed but, it''s really hot and doesn''t seem like it will be much use against fire.


    ...In that case, my course of action is decided. Kill it before it kills me.


    [You guys! Resign yourself and become material!]


    Thus, I decided to take on both dragon at the same time. Looking for the opportune moment, I stood on the rock and pointed the auto battle sword at the dragons.


    Kudo to something made by the ultimate cauldron, it was as if an invisible knight was wielding the sword, displaying graceful movement.


    Unexpectedly, the sword wasn''t doing any meaningful damage to the hard scale but as a decoy it served its purpose.


    [In a fight, both parties are equally guilty! Uryaah!]


    Taking that gap, I threw the bomb with full power. Anti-dragon bomb. The name is--Death Dragon bomb.


    ...What? Just so you know I didn''t choose the name. It''s the default name.


    Contrary to the naming sense, the explanation that the recipe book provided was that by using dragon-based power against dragon it will deal heavy damage to them......it seems. Dragon being weak to dragon-type, what is this, some kind of game.


    I used if half-convinced but the firepower seemed gigantic and the blue dragon who received the blunt of the impact let out its death throes and collapsed. Ooh, it''s super effective!


    [Uhyaaa---!?]


    My happiness was short-lived, as the red dragon seems to have diverted its attention to me who defeated its opponent, and shot a fireball at me. I barely avoided it by descending to the lowest possible point with the room. Right now, I am actually experiencing a real battle!


    [If that''s you want, you shall have it! Anti-dragon bomb, second wave! Eat this--!]


    Towards the dragon who was pursuing me in the air, I threw the bomb at it. The name of the bomb was--Bolt Dragon Bomb.


    ...Don''t you even dare think the name is corny or something. True to its name, it''s a bomb that strike a flying dragon with thunderbolt! Why can it make lightning fall? Don''t ask me!


    Directing my inner voice to God knows who, the dragon was struck by a mighty illumination.


    [Dohyaa---!]


    My view was engulfed by white, and I could see current running through the aftermath of the area. Confronted by the impact, I couldn''t help but let out a pathetic sound and made a soft landing after. Its capability exceeded my expectation. This is not something I should use at such close vicinity.


    Feeling a strong static through my body as I got up, the dragon who was decimated by the lightning has fallen, much like my previous victim.


    [Al-alright! It worked out! The enemy general has been defeated!]


    Convinced of my victory, I opened the mouth of the bag of unlimited capacity towards the duo. When that happened, the bag ignored spatial law and sucked up the carcasses of the giants. Now once the disassembling process is done, I am all set.


    ? ? ?


    Finding a safe spot, I set up the all-purpose tent and begin preparatory work inside.


    Starting with the all-purpose map, the Eldonia ore and 5 fairy stone soon followed into the cauldron, only one key item is left.


    [Heed my call, drake''s eye-!]


    Wondering what kind of grotesque material will it look like, I took it out in great fear only for it to have the magnificent glitter like a gemstone.


    Couldn''t help but looking at the light through it, what I saw was an irregular reflection within the vivid emerald green, which formed a rainbow. What''s this, so pretty.


    [I am slightly reluctant to part with something so pretty but, here it goes]


    Enjoying the sight to fullness, I then placed it in the cauldron. Perhaps it was difficult as it took longer than usual but soon the all-purpose map that became thicker was created. Let''s see, is there any new function?


    Unveiling the newly upgraded map, I spent no time confirming its new function.


    [Yes! It''s there! Route searching and navigation function!]


    When I click on a point on the map, the details of how to get there was displayed in blue. I couldn''t help but exclaimed [Let''s go] and made a guts pose.


    [Now then, as long as I know the escape route, I can get out of this mountain by today-!]


    With my tension at its highest point, I kept my belonging, enthusiastically got on the broom and accelerated through the mountain path.

 Volume 1 - CH 18

    Volume 1: Life in a different world is tumultuous!?~


    Chapter 18 [At the lake town, part 1]


    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. Up until recently, I was stranded on the mountain for several days.


    [Waaah, it¡¯s pretty]


    Beneath my view was a long lake, and along the lake was a magnificent town. I didn''t think there was such a fabulous scenery beyond that steep mountain.


    Gleefully approaching the town, I was enclosed by ramparts by the side and a stout door in front of me.


    [Young lady, you a traveler? I am impressed a woman made it through that mountain alone]


    [Despite appearance, I am an alchemist after all] as I said that to the gatekeeper who had an amazed face, his response was an insincere laugh. This person doesn''t get it at all.


    [Leaving that aside, I would like to stay in this town for a few days] as I changed the topic, he once again had a smile and stretched out his right hand [Welcome to the lakeside town, Le Terreau. The entrance fee will be 300 Fol]


    From the look of it this is a resort town, and they even take entrance fee like a theme park. How shrewd.


    There is no way I am not going in after everything, so I paid the fee, went through the baggage inspection and finally entered the town.


    ...Incidentally, when the gatekeeper took a peep inside the bag of unlimited capacity [What, it''s empty] was the response as he titled his head in confusion. Apparently much like the recipe book which can only be read by me, the bag functions the same.


    [Uhyaah, what a person]


    As I passed the entrance, I started my search for lodging at the center street. Both ends of the street were filled of rows of store, and the main street had hundreds of people. I wonder if all the people here crossed that mountain too.


    [Now now, the street performance at the fountain is going to begin! Come take a look!]


    Moving between people like a weaving needle, a young man dressed like a clown called out. As if that was the signal, the flow changed and as if it was the pool, I was swept along by the crowd. Wait a min---! I am not interested in street performance---! What I am interested in is alchemy---!


    ? ? ?


    [Uheee......]


    While being dragged along by the current occasionally, I eventually made it to the lodging. Resting my hand on the counter while catching breath, the male receptionist beckoned me [Welcome] with a worried face.


    [Miss, is this your first time in this town? The crowd is overwhelming, isn''t it?]


    [No joke] as I agreed while panting, [Today is particularly busy. In fact, there should be lesser people at the harbor] the receptionist educated me.


    After expressing my gratitude, I then reserved a room. Enquiring about the adventurer''s guild bulletin board, and it turned out to be at the harbor too. In that case, the place I need to go is decided.


    [I will be returning by evening, so please prepare dinner for me]


    Placing the advance payment in the form of rental fee on the counter, I departed for the harbor. While the main point is still the request, since I am at such a scenic town, I want to take it slow.


    ? ? ?


    Breaking through the crowd once again, I made it to the road along the green of the lake.


    Unlike the main road, this path is much quieter. In exchange of there not being any store, I spotted the elderly and family who I suppose are the resident of this town.


    [Ah, I much prefer this side]


    The lake surface was glittering from the sunlight and ships with white sail were floating on it. The visage was like that of the Aegean Sea, not that I have went there before.


    My thoughts were interrupted by a boy who was holding hands with his mother while pointing at me who exclaimed [Mama, look!]


    Maybe alchemist is a novelty to him, but he was waving his hand to me until the mother scolded him [Do not look!]. Hey, madam, phrasing.


    [Oi, drop off that luggage!]


    [Alright, let''s get moving-!]


    Seeing the parent-child pair off with a complicated feeling, this time the loud voice of a male caught my attention. From what I can see, a ship just docked on the harbor and from it sailors who was transporting the cargo.


    From the direction of the pier, tons of customer were disembarking. I would infer they are tourist.


    Sigh, I thought it was weird that this many people crossed the mountain but it seems like there is a town across the lake. They must have come from there.


    Even this place is supposed to be a remote area in between the mountain and lake, as I found out the reason behind that I reached the bulletin board.


    ? ? ?


    [Errm, let''s see......]


    The norm of big town, bulletin board present. It''s a bustling town, so there should be no lack of request......


    ¡¸HIRING! GUIDING TOURIST! REQUEST FROM LE TERREAU TOURISM ASSOCIATION¡¹


    ¡¸Villa management request. Interested party to head to the adventurer''s guild¡¹


    ¡¸Sales of Tortilla at the stall. Commission based. Details at the adventurer''s guild¡¹


    Request slip were lined from edge to edge, but they were all ordinary. Meaning alchemy is not needed. Man, I didn''t come here for job security.


    Feeling dejected and looking through the remaining request, they were request centered around services, very fitting for a tourist spot. I wonder if there''s any job that I could gather material and complete since I am already at it.


    [......Oh]


    At the moment that I partly gave up, a single request slip entered my sight.


    ¡¸Recruiting fishermen. Employment period of a week. Boat is rental. Request to deliver a certain percentage of the catch. Details is at the adventurer''s guild¡¹


    Hoho. If we are talking about fishermen, that means I will get to catch fish and if we are talking about that, isn''t that the classic of region locked material.


    It cost money but they will be providing the boat and I can do whatever I want with the fishes outside the requested amount. This is extremely enticing for an alchemist.


    [Ok, let''s go with this!]


    Rip, as I drew the request slip from the board and made for the adventurer''s guild. The destination is the paradise of fishes!

 Volume 1 - CH 19

    Chapter 19 [At the lake town, part 2]


    [Good afternoon]


    Gripping the request slip in my hand, I opened the door of the adventurer''s guild. Maybe it has something to do with the location, but there is a fishy odor that followed.


    [Ah? What is it, little girl]


    Responding to my greeting was a man who came out from behind the counter. With hair as white as snow and an old hardened face, he was of advanced age.


    Smoking the pipe in his mouth, he observed me with his sunken eyes. Between here and the mining city, I wonder if the guild''s receptionist could be more amicable.


    [Erm, I would like to accept this request]


    As if to escape his gaze, I unveiled the request slip in front of him, to which he muttered [Oh, this] as he extinguished his smoke.


    [Well, I don''t mind if you accept it but it''s fishing you know? Do you have any experience as a fisherman?]


    He scanned my body as if he was mocking me and continued with [From the look of those arms, I doubt so] as he laughed.


    Haa? It''s about the arm again here? Distasteful.


    [Despite appearance, I have the experience of working in a mine. It isn''t wise to stereotype I think] which he replied [What''s a stovepipe?] as he titled his neck. Oh, he is an uneducated person I see.


    [Leaving that aside, I heard that I can rent boat here]


    [Yes, there is. Here]


    Pulling myself together and asking, the man exited the counter and headed to the front. Following him, I was escorted to a boat anchored at the harbor.


    [This is the boat]


    ...What is this half-submerged boat.


    That was my first thought. The sail was soiled brown and the ship is ridden with holes. Not to mention the main body was making creaking sound due to the waves of the lake, it wouldn''t be surprising if it sank anytime.


    [...And what is the rental fee for this?]


    [10000 Fol]


    This wreck? I almost blurted out my thoughts but manage to control myself.


    ...I forgot. On the adventurer''s guild bulletin board there is a bunch of requests that isn''t worth doing.


    [...Very well. I will rent it]


    That was my answer after giving it some thought. It would need to be repaired but there is no other way.


    [Hehehe, thanks for the business. Well, do your best]


    Receiving the payment with a jovial grin, the man waved his right arm haphazardly while departing from the harbor.


    Gununu, just you watch. I will show you what I can do! Don''t underestimate alchemy!


    Facing that back full of composure, I complained in my heart.


    ? ? ?


    [Alright, let''s start with the repair first]


    After eating a late lunch in the form of a taco filled with vegetable that I bought from the main street, I confronted the half-submerged boat.


    According to the recipe book, it seems like I can craft a new boat by using this as base. But I wonder if it will fit inside the cauldron. No matter how, it¡¯s a boat meant to hold a person......or so I thought as the cauldron vacuumed the boat along with the water of the lake. Ooo, I haven''t seen the cheat this cauldron is capable for in a while.


    Not only me but the people who were strolling and fishing were all surprised so [It''s nothing! Sorry for the bother! I am doing alchemy] as I tried to cover up what was happening. They probably didn''t understand what I was saying.


    With this and that, the crafting of the boat was completed, and as if it was reversed playback the completed product was spitted out from the cauldron.


    However, the sail was missing which was weird. After investigation, it seems like the sail must be created separately.


    [Ah, cloth again huh]


    Since the boat''s locomotion is in correlation to the wind, the sail has to be sizeable. Needless to say, a decent amount of cloth would be needed.


    I encountered this issue previously but, cloth aren''t natural resources so there is the issue of not having enough. This time too it was the same.


    [Uhm, whatever should I do]


    While going through the recipe book, I took a glance at the direction of the main street. If I recall, there were beautiful dyed scarf and cloth being sold as gift. Should I use those?


    [No no. I can''t imagine how much cloth is needed to make the sail. If I use presents as ingredient, no matter how much money I have it wouldn''t be enough]


    Laying that idea to rest, my sight rested on the recipe book again. I wonder if there is something like an auto rowing oar.


    [Oh, there is something good]


    What I found was something named ¡¸Outer Motor¡¹. Simply put it''s an outboard motor, the engine for small ship.


    [Material are......steel and oil and gunpowder and......]


    Similar to the bathtub I made before, the quantity needed is a lot but I happen to have enough. Within the large quantity rock, I gathered at the mining city are iron ore mixed inside, I am thankful I do not lack steel.


    [Alright, it''s complete!]


    From within the rainbow-colored process, an engine that I often see from television show appeared. In fact, it''s exactly the same.


    [Ok, this area should work]


    Copying what I seen, I attached it to the boat. Firstly, let''s take it for a test run.


    [Ooooh, it feels great---!]


    In my original world a license would be needed but as there is no driving school here, the controls are sloppy too. Just by chanting [Advance!] the boat went full throttle. The suddenness almost made me fall into the lake]


    Incidentally, the fuel seems to be infinite. I wonder if this is the work of the ultimate cauldron too.


    [Bend right there! Left now!]


    When I gave the command, as if there was a voice recognition system the boat changed its direction accordingly


    The boat was moving at speed that was impossible to achieve in this world and the waterfowls on the water surface was looking with shock.


    [Haa, that was fun]


    After having my fill of the enjoyable cruising, I headed back to the harbor. It was an exhilarating feeling which was different from the feeling of riding the witch''s broom.


    [That''s right. I half-forgotten it but the original aim was fishing. Fishing equipment are needed]


    Setting the cauldron on the boat, I started preparation to make fishing tool.


    The next thing on the menu was the fully automated fishing rod. Previously, when I disassembled the fully automated pickaxe, the fairy stone were refunded to me so I can recycle them here.


    [Alright, complete!]


    Repeating the familiar process on tossing material into the cauldron, what I got in return was 10 fully automated fishing rod. With this, it''s the same as employing 10 fishermen.


    [Nn, I did whatever I could today. The work will begin tomorrow so let''s rest at the inn]


    Overlooking at the reborn boat once again, I returned to the inn.


    ...By the way, dinner was Acqua pazza made using the ingredient from the lake. Dishes made from the cauldron are delicious too but nothing beats hand made.

 Volume 1 - CH 20

    [Well then, let''s depart!]


    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. Today the fishing will commence so I was out to the lake by morning.


    [The other fishing boat are starting to gather, so perhaps this spot would work. Go--!]


    As I began right in the center of the lake, the competition with the other boats begun. Well, my fishing rod is fully automated so I left them to their own devices. The quintuple spreaded themselves out evenly along the boat, and as if they had a will of their own, they began battling with the fishes.


    [Oh!? I got a catch immediately! Amazing!]


    There is no mistake that this was a product of the ultimate cauldron as fishes were being caught one after another in the matter of minutes. It was literally a windfall.


    ...Speaking of which, I do not remember putting any form of bait on the rod. Why are so many fishes biting? Does it have a lure or something I wonder.


    [...Well, it doesn''t matter. Since they are getting caught anyway]


    Giving up on thinking too much into it, this looked like the pole and line fishing of bonito that I saw on TV......while entertaining that thought carefreely, I decided to start the process of moving the fishes to the tank on the boat. The fishes are really lively, jumping with much vigor.


    ? ? ?


    Continuing the work for one more hour which was when a single vessel approached me. The boat was around 1 time the size of mine and on board of it was three workers.


    [Yo, miss, looks like you are doing really well]


    Among the trio, the man who presumably is the captain spoke out. His gaze was focused on the tank of my boat, filled with fish.


    [Are you alone? How did you manage to get such a haul?]


    [That''s a trade secret!]


    As I raised my voice to convey this, behind me were the fully automated rod at their work in real time, and I couldn''t conceal that fact.


    [I am speechless. What kind of magic is this?]


    Switching his sight from the tank to the movement of the automatic rod, the captain asked with a bewildered expression.


    [This is alchemist!] as I proudly answered, only to be greeted by the trio tilting their neck in confusion. Yeah yeah, I know this was going to happen.


    [Well, I don''t really get it but are you willing to lend that rod to us? Of course, not for free. How does 1000 Fol a day sounds?]


    [U-unfortunately, rental is impossible. This is exclusive to Mei''s workshop]


    My heart skipped at the thought of 1000 Fol but I was able to turn them down. This fully automated series, if would be bad if the user were to become dependent on it too.


    [That is a shame. Well then, let''s work hard to not lose the lady! You guys, we are moving to another spot!]


    With the call of a subordinate as the signal the boat changed their course and went away. It felt like I was being watched by the ships from every direction. I guess I was being conspicuous.\


    As for me, I didn''t have the intention to start hiding it now but......while thinking that, the tank was filled to the brim so I decided to return to the harbor for now.


    ? ? ?


    [Oh, you are already back?]


    When I am back at the harbor, the man from back then is waiting at the adventurer''s guild. He must have seen me return as the guild''s building is pretty near the harbor.


    [Did you at least catch enough for your meal?] as the man took a peep at the tank while posing this question, [As you can see] I gladly obliged and his eyes widened from the view.


    [Go ahead at take the necessary amount] as I conveyed my message, he hurriedly prepared a wooden box and started the transfer. There was bountiful of leftover which I then proceeded to store in the bag of unlimited capacity. Regional specialty, aquatic material get!


    [Now then, let''s take a short break and continue working hard]


    Landing on the surface calmly and leisurely, I made for the stores at the main street for lunch. After vexing over it, I decided to order the fish burger. This tartar sauce, exquisite.


    Inserting that one moment of rest, and it''s back to the lake in the afternoon. Perhaps it has something to do with the water temperature but there an hour where I was unable to catch anything. Then again, as I have already submitted what was required earlier, I enjoyed several activities such as eating sweets at the boat and sunbathing. It was truly a fabulous ocean......no, lake life.


    Then I returned to the harbor in the evening, with a haul not unlike that of the morning portion and ended work for the day.


    ? ? ?


    For the next two days, the days were like a loop. Securing the needed amount in the morning and then followed by the carefree lake life in the afternoon.


    The leftover fishes were sold at the market. There was a lot of reasonably sized fishes from the catch, and the profit averaged at 5000 Fol a day.


    Usually, money would be required for the ship''s expenses but since everything is forked out by me so there wasn''t such a thing. The crew is just me alone so salary is null too. This feels like a lucrative business.


    ...The person at the adventurer''s guild, each time I meet him his face gets paler and paler. Fufufu, I wonder why.

 Volume 1 - CH 21

    ~Volume 1: Life in a different world is tumultuous!?~


    Chapter 21 [At the lake town, part 4]


    As I continued living the days, eventually it''s the final day of the contract. So far, I have accumulated a profit of 45000 Fol and today too I triumphantly set out on the boat.


    Within the window of this one week, I have gained some infamy among the fishermen. Well, if someone with appeared out of nowhere with contraptions never seen before and mysterious tool that catches fish, she will be the center of attention.


    It has gotten to the point where part of the fishermen that I became friendly with joked [Little miss, you are going to empty the lake of fishes by yourself at this rate], that was the pace I was acquiring my catches.


    [This is the final day so I am going to do my best.]


    Saying that under my breath, the boat was floating in the center of the lake, bringing in the haul. At first, I was somewhat getting a decent number of catches until an exact timing where it was completely silent. What is going on with that I wonder.


    For the fully automated fishing rod to not catch anything, it''s as if the fishes around the area were spirited away......as that thought surfaced, the waterfowls flew away all at once. Moment later, there was a commotion among the nearby boats, and they all started heading for land one after another,


    [Excuse me, what is happening?]


    Calling out to the captain of a passing by boat, [The lord of the lake has appeared it seems. You should escape too little miss!] he educated me.


    [What is the lord of the lake?]


    As I questioned the boat that was retreating parallel to me, the captain explained [When the humans get carried away and catch too much fishes from the lake it appears, using the saw on its head to cleave ships in half]


    Fumufumu. The image of a gigantic saw shark came upon me. From its spawning condition, I assume it appears because the amount of prey became lesser, angering it.


    [Uwaaa---!]


    As I entertained those thoughts, a boat that was about 10 meter away from us disappeared into the deep sea along with the water column. After a short lapse, a humongous shark with saw on its back and head surfaced. Uwaaah, so that''s the lord.


    [It appeared! Come on miss, hurry up and escape!]


    [R-right!]


    Deducing that the wind alone won''t be enough, the captain and crew prepared their oar and started rowing. I started my engine too while glancing at them.


    [Incidentally, why was that demon beast neglected for so long?]


    [The request has been made to the adventurer''s guild but, it rarely shows himself and is immune to the harpoons. In addition, the terrain is in advantage if we battled. That''s why, it wasn''t subjugated]


    [Hoho, that''s the case I see]


    Technically, there is a subjugation request made I see. Since I always ignore the corner with that kind of quest. They don''t seem to be worth the risk anyway.


    [As a result, the ever-increasing bounty became 80000 Fol]


    [I will defeat it!]


    Without a moment of notice, I made a U-Turn. It''s definitely not that I had nothing but the bounty in my sights. For the kindred fisherman, I will do what I can. It''s definitely not that I had nothing but the bounty in my sights. This is important so I repeated it.


    Also, thinking about it calmly, I might be part of the reason that invoked the wrath of the lord. Did I contribute too much to clearing the fishes I wonder.


    With slight regrets, I closed in on the lord of the lake. Finally coming to a range where I can visually confirm its presence, I took out the alchemy cauldron.


    If I recall, there was a bomb that can summon lightning. The effectiveness was confirmed against the dragon too, so I just have to hit it with that. Aquatic monster is weak to lightning too.


    [Little miss, don''t take out some cauldron now and escape!]


    [Our comrade has gotten their boats sunken by it multiple times! I won''t say anything bad, do not do anything reckless!]


    From a distant boat, the fishermen were calling out.


    [Everybody, please escape. I will battle it! For the sake of the bounty!]


    Gripping onto the explosive that was created immediately after, I observed the water surface and waves. From between the white-crested waves, a giant fin emerged and headed towards me.


    It was said to have a saw attached on its head so there was chance it would submerge and strike the hull. If that''s the case, I have to defeat it before then! Deryaah!


    Timing to the movement of the demon beast I pitched the bomb into the water surface, after a few seconds, I covered my eyes by reflex as that was how bright the illumination was, and how earsplitting the noise was. However, it seemed to have dodge by a hair''s breadth.


    [It escaped! Not good! Runaway full speed in zig-zagged motion!]


    As I gave the command, the boats heeded it and started moving. This kind of movement doesn''t seem possible on transportation operated by labor or wind.


    Looking behind while swaying and from the trails of the unpredictable movement of the boats, several water columns made its appearance. It''s aiming for it; it''s aiming for it all right. That was close.


    [...More like, since it is able to commence it assaults from underwater, isn''t it impossible to beat it while riding a ship? In that case, I can use this boat as a decoy......]


    Thinking on the spot, [While continuing the zig zagging, make for the shore at full speed!] giving the instruction to my boat, I kept the cauldron in the bag. In turn, I retrieved the witch''s broom and took off hurriedly.


    Leaving the boat, I ascended with bombs in my hand. While this broom doesn''t have the ability to go too high, the height is good enough for me to track the demon beast''s movement.


    [I see it! Now---!]


    Eventually, reading the timing of the water splashes, I aimed and threw the lightning bombs at the target. The sound was several times that of the earlier one and the lake was dyed white.


    ...As the impact settled, the form of a half charred giant shark floated on the lake. All right! I defeated it! Bounty money get!


    [Oi, little miss, are you alright!?]


    [Amazing, you really did it! This calls for a celebration!]


    Confirming the inaction of the lord of the lake, I cautiously lowered myself which also prompt the return of the ships that were escaping to the shore just now.


    Mixed into the cheer from all direction was a question [Which nation''s magus are you?]


    [Like I said I am an alchemist!] as I declared which was drowned by the applauses of the fishermen.


    ? ? ?


    [The completion of the request has been confirmed, here is the reward. Thank you for your hard work]


    [Nah, it was no big deal]


    The day after the subjugation, an important person of the guild came down to hand me my bounty. As the amount was great, it seems like a branch guild doesn''t have the authorization to make the payment individually.


    A great amount of people was congratulating me, it was as if it was an award ceremony. There was also a celebration but among the crowd present in the adventurer''s guild, a lone man was desperately appealing [I scouted that lady]


    He''s spouting something......was my first thought but he was being treated as a nuisance by the surrounding. Could it be that he usually lies like that I wonder.


    I have made enough of a name in this town......thinking that, I left the lake town in the next few days.

 Volume 1 - CH 22

    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. Currently, I am in the midst of flight in the rain.


    [Eeh......I finally made it to the opposite of the lake but the rain hasn''t stopped at all. What is with the climate in this area I wonder]


    Cloaked in the raincoat I made way back and holding on an umbrella while flying at low altitude. There may be people who get angry at me driving while occupied but don''t mind the minor details, this is an alternate world after all.


    With my free hand I opened the all-purpose map and when I switched to weather mode, it seems like it''s raining in this area constantly. Due to the version upgrade, there is now time information and when I brought up the report for the week, it too shows that it has been raining non-stop.


    Even if I am shielding myself with the raincoat, with a rain this strong it''s impossible to fend against everything. As I have been completely dyed with rainwater, my clothes are soaked too. The day is going to end soon yet I still couldn''t find a village in the vicinity. Whatever shall I do I wonder.


    Yesterday I was camping out too so today for sure I want to reach a village though. I sure would like to sleep under a roof, not a tent......as I dreamt which was when I spotted a tiny speck of light beyond the rain. Yay, village discovered!


    ? ? ?


    [Excuse me! Is there anybody around!]


    The village was really small and as I couldn''t spot anything resembling an inn, I decided to knock on the door of the largest building. It looks to the house of the village chief anyway, if I told him the reason maybe he would let me intrude for a night......was the selection reason.


    [...Who might you be?]


    In a bit the door was opened. The face that peeped from within was a white bearded man who seems like he would fit perfectly as the role of the chief......or not, instead it was a girl with beautiful black hair that stopped slightly above the shoulder. Eh, a girl?


    [Could you be an acquaintance of grandpa......the village elder? Unfortunately, he is currently out for a meeting at the neighboring village. He should return by tomorrow. I apologize]


    She wasn''t surprised by the sudden visitor, and was bowing her head and she explained. From the looks of it this is indeed the house of the village chief. However, the owner isn''t present. It also doesn''t seem like he would be returning today so I cannot possibly intrude. What should I do.


    [Ermmm, Umm, well]


    [Miss, you are drenched. This encounter must be some kind of fate, if you don''t mind would you like to stay for the night]


    That suggestion almost brought a smile to my restlessness. [Yes please!] while nodding and giving my thanks, my hand was grasped together without realization. This girl is truly an angel.


    [I cannot offer much but please make your way in]


    The girl led me in with a wry smile. While following her back, the rainwater was dripping on the floor in front of me. Oops, I shouldn''t bring this in.


    Hanging the lightly soaked raincoat under the eaves, I continued following the girl. While this was an unexpected turn of event, my original goal was searching for a lodging so in a sense my wish came true.


    ? ? ?


    While changing out of my wet clothing, I learned that Mizuri, the girl was the granddaughter of the village chief. At the same time, I also learned that she was serving as the ¡¸Maiden of welcoming rain¡¹


    [Err, what kind of job is that?]


    [It''s one who serve the god of rain and bring blessing to the village]


    When I asked, I was answered with a joyous face. The occupation of this world doesn''t really click with me but I wonder if it''s like a Shinto priest or Miko.


    Adding on, she also takes care of the village chief who have a bad leg. Even though she seems younger than me, she''s so down to earth.


    Eventually I finished changing, and as gratitude for letting my stay overnight, I decided to repay them with dishes made with alchemy. Chicken egg and crabs that I got from the lake are used as the catalyst to make kanitama. Fluffy and plump, it is prepared deliciously.


    [As expected of a traveler, erm, what a unique way of cooking] as Mizuri watched the process and desperately tried to put up a front. It''s ok. She can be honest. I, too didn''t think it would come with a spoon. Well, it''s fine since it makes dining easier.


    [Mei-san''s dish, this is the first time I had anything like it but, it''s delicious]


    Sitting at the dining table face to face, she was taking small bites at the kanitama with a shy, smiling expression. I am glad it suits her palate.


    [More like, it is really fine for me to stay over? Wouldn''t you get scolded for letting me stay overnight?]


    [There is no issue. Rather, I would be more worried if I was alone. It would be bad if a thief snuck in]


    In response to my question, Mizuri answered without a change in expression. [What would you do if I was a thief?] I couldn''t help but retorted.


    [You are a woman and a thief wouldn''t have visited with a loud voice. Also, Mei-san is kind]


    Ehehe, she said it with such a pure smile. Truly an angel!


    ? ? ?


    After the meal, I was resting at the guest room prepared for me. The room was clean and sizable too but......


    [Mei-san, what''s wrong? Do you not like the room?]


    [Ah, uun. That''s not it, it''s just]


    Responding to a concerned Mizuri outside the room, I then proceeded to look at my own body.


    The long-distance travel have tired me somewhat but due to being exposed to the rain, my body can''t help but feel cold. If I go ahead sleep now, I doubt I can get much rest.


    In times like this, I definitely want to take a bath and warm my body from the core. Technically I do possess my own bathtub but it''s not like I can just enter the bath in this room.


    [Ah, could it be that you would like to take a bath?]


    As I was holding back, Mizuri said while putting both her hands in front of her chest. Don''t tell me, she can read mind? Way to go, Maiden of welcoming rain.


    [There is a bath in this house?]


    [That''s right. It''s a bit cramped though; would you like to enter it?]


    [Yes, yes-!]


    I couldn''t help but made an energetic reply. This is a small village but it''s the house of the village chief after all. It''s expected that they are rich enough to have one installed.


    [Only water will come out though]


    [Then that''s no good!]


    In response to Mizuri who once again have a smiling face, I couldn¡¯t help but retorted. A bath that can only spout water is not a bath. Could this girl have an air-headed side to her I wonder.


    [Does this village have a culture where they welcome guest with water bath or something?]


    [No, that''s not it. To tell you the truth......]


    As the initial expectation was great, I unintentionally put in a sarcastic way, which Mizuri was then plagued by a troubled face.


    According to her, due to the constant rain, the firewood used for the furnace is damp, and fire can''t be started. Ah, so that''s the case.


    [If you have a legitimate reason, you should have said it earlier. Don''t worry, I will prepare a bath in no time]


    When I relayed with a thumbs up, [Do you have dry firewood......?] she wondered with a bewildered face, and I made her lead me to the bathroom.


    ? ? ?


    Confirming the situation at the site, and understanding that there is no space for me to set my own bathtub, [Wait a moment, I will prepare something like a water heater] as I told her and set the cauldron on top of the tiles. In the few moments after opening the recipe book, I found the recipe of a simple boiler.


    According to the completed figure listed on the recipe book, it''s a square box with two hoses protruding out. One of the hoses will suck the water into the box, and from within the box the temperature will be adjusted before being released from the other hose......or so it seems like how the contraption works. It doesn''t take up much space, and seems convenient to carry. Alright, let''s go with this.


    As soon as I have decided on it, I proceed to toss the material into the cauldron. The main ingredient for this tool is steel. Really, the ore that I gathered at the mining city is really useful.


    On the other hand, Mizuri was watching my alchemy from behind in a fluster.

 Volume 1 - CH 23

    Chapter 23 [At the rainy village, part 2]


    [Erm, how''s the bath temperature?]


    [Unn, it''s just right]


    Eventually to serve as the test run of the simple boiler at the same time, I entered the heated-up bath.


    The result was excellent. This tool allows for the fine-tuning of the temperature, so it was neither too hot or too cold. It was perfect to warm this rain-drenched body of mine from the core. Fabulous.


    [You should enter too Mizuri. It feels nice]


    Inferring from the conversation up till now, it doesn''t seem like she has taken a bath in a long time. So, I recommend it to her. Bath is the cleansing of heart to girls after all.


    [I-is that so. Then I shall take you up on your offer]


    [Eh?]


    Creak, as the door was closed, Mizuri who had nothing but a single piece of towel joined me. Eh, you are entering now? I meant to say you should use it after me though......wait, it''s c-r-a-m-p-e-d!


    Confirming the temperature through her fingertips, she then entered the bath without hesitation. Wait a second, the bath of this house isn''t wide enough. It''s especially so with two people.


    [Ah, it''s true. The temperature is just nice]


    Haah. I could feel her breath on my face. Like I said you are too close.


    As much as I would like to change the position of my body, with this crampedness it doesn''t possible.


    While pondering on my next step of action, [Actually, I have an older sister 2 years above me] she started narrating. following with [Currently she lives at a mountain city far away from here but, Mei-san resembles her a lot]


    Ah, so that''s why.


    Allowing a complete stranger like me to stay overnight, and the over-friendliness, it all makes sense now. Her feeling of yearning to see her sister is projected on to me.


    We finally managed to switched our position, in that case, I could spoil her a bit was my thoughts.


    ...That is well and all but, after the change it felt like something soft was leaning on my back. It''s a bit late but this girl seems to be developing well in contrast to her age, doesn''t she? Could it be, I lost? It seems like it doesn''t it?


    ? ? ?


    Then it was night. Now that my body is warmed, I laid on the bed and started dozing off.


    Tomorrow the village chief will be back, I need to thank him properly......as I was engrossed in my thoughts.


    [...Bro, are you......sure?]


    [...Of course, be quiet and follow]


    I could hear some sound. The soft voice of a conversation mixed with the sound of rain.


    [But still, stealing from the house of the village chief of the neighboring village, if we are caught......]


    [The homeowner is in our village. This house is currently an empty shell]


    Getting up from the bed silently and placing my ear on the thin wall, now I can hear the content of the conversation clearly. Oh my, it seems like there are some rats sneaking around.


    I carefully unveiled the all-purpose map and activated the enemy radar mode. This allows me to grasp the position of people in real time, and I confirmed their position.


    The suspicious duo walked along the wall and arrived at the back door. That was where their movement stopped, undoubtedly, they were going to pick the lock.


    Obviously, the names that were displayed were names I don''t recognize. They probably tried to sneak in using the darkness and rain as camouflage but everything is transparent to me.


    [I know Mizuri said that but to think it would actually happen]


    Standing up, I exited the room with the bag of unlimited capacity. The first goal is the entrance. From there, I retrieved the raincoat from the eaves and put it on. Then I imitated them and headed for the backdoor by walking along the wall.


    [...Bro, is it done?]


    [Don''t rush me. Just a bit more......]


    Walking on tiptoe, stealthy footsteps. I snuck up behind the burglars carefully. In normal circumstances they would have noticed but my presence was completely masked by the sound of the heavy rain.


    Without further ado, let''s send them packing swiftly. I name it, the haunted house of the alchemist Mei.


    Getting as near as I can, I released the fully automated pickaxe and auto battle sword. The fully automated scoop and fishing rod included as a freebie! Make a ruckus to your heart''s content!


    [Eek!? B-bro!?]


    [What. I said it''s just a bit mo......dowaaaaah!?]


    The item I released were making unsettling sound while approaching the thieves. Noticing them, they let out a pathetic cried and crumbled.


    Exaggeratedly digging at the ground right in front of their feet was the pickaxe, and in unison was the sword barely grazing their cheek. The scoop was flipping the soil and the rod was spewing it''s thread everywhere.


    It was as if it''s the night parade of a hundred demons or poltergeist phenomenon. If they knew the trick this would look really foolish but their frightened reaction was so overboard it made me cringe a little.


    ...Well, whatever. All right, as insurance.


    [Heeheehee! LEAVE-! LEAVE-!]


    I covered my head with the hood of raincoat, and delivered the finishing touches with the appearance of a cloth ghost.


    [R-runnn!]


    [T-this place is haunted---!]


    With a threatening voice synergizing with the rain and darkness, the thieves fled from the scene. Hahaha. Your luck ran out when you attempt to steal from this house when I am around!


    Ensuring that I can no longer see their silhouette, I returned to the room and this time for sure I fell asleep.

 Volume 1 - CH 24

    Chapter 24 [At the rainy village, part 3]


    [Have you awoken, Miss Mei]


    The next day. As I woke up, in front of me was an elderly man with a brown cane on hand.


    I took moments to recall while wondering who the man was. Most likely, this person is Mizuri''s grandfather, the village chief.


    [I have heard the news. You drove off some thieves from this land]


    His body was swaying as he joyfully express. Where did he hear it from, I wonder. Perhaps my acts yesterday were spotted by the neighbor.


    Thinking hard with my half-asleep brain, I looked out of the window. Today the rain doesn''t show any sign of stopping too.


    [It seems that you have taken care of my granddaughter. Miss Mei, I apologize for the trouble]


    [No, I should be the one thanking you......wait, did I introduce myself?]


    Scratching my head in bewilderment, I asked without thinking to which [Hohoho. I have heard rumors of you, miss Mei] was the response.


    Now where did you hear this too? Posing the question in confusion, [from the lake town] was the answer. Ah, have it already spread that far.


    [A renowned magus lady who defeated the lord of the lake or so I heard]


    [It''s alchemist]


    I refuted with a strong stance. Like I said, it would be nice if they stop associating me with a magus.


    [Apologies. An alchemist I see. Fumu]


    ...Hold it right there, what''s with the difference in attitude. Not to mention, honorifics is used for magus but not alchemist? I had thought to depart once morning comes but it seems like it''s necessary for me to spread the tales of the strongest alchemist here.


    ? ? ?


    [Gramps, was something decided at the meeting yesterday?]


    Fixing her posture, Mizuri who was having breakfast with us probed while taking apart the rye bread.


    [Umu. About that......]


    The village elder stopped his hand, ahem, as he cleared his throat and began reciting calmly.


    [After discussing with the neighboring village, the conclusion was that the acts of the villagers have angered the mountain god which caused the never-ending rain. Thus, we have decided to offer the maiden of welcoming rain, which is Mizuri as a human pillar to the mountain god]


    ...What? Human pillar. It''s not as if this is a group of exorcists. What a heavy topic from the morning!?


    [Mizuri. It seems like we have forced you into a difficult role......]


    [No. If that''s the will of the village, I will gladly......]


    [Stop! Hold it right there! Don''t show me this kind of development from the morning! I will do something about it so cut it out with this depressing atmosphere!]


    Rising up as I hit the surface of the dining table, I interrupted the two who seems like they were at their wits end. Even if you sacrifice Mizuri, the rain it''s going to stop! The weather forecast from the all-purpose map have already shown the rain will continue for at least a week!


    [H-however, miss Mei you are an alchemist correct? If would be one thing if you were a magus......]


    The village chief had a doubtful face to my suggestion. Truly, how long can the status of an alchemist in this world be.


    [Anyway! If something is troubling you, consult me! I can probably solve most of the issues!]


    Without the slightest intention to put up a front, I exclaimed. Even I myself doesn''t understand why I got this desperate.


    Perhaps my sincerity got through as the village chief was willing to reconsider]


    [I believe you already know but, miss Mei] as he began, [rain have been falling non-stop at the area around this village. Due to that, the crops are unable to grow] as he clarified the situation.


    Fumufumu. Like I thought the problem is the rain. From observing the flow of the rain cloud through the all-purpose map, the environment of this village is indeed special.


    ...It felt like there was a similar mission in the past. If I recall, at the foot of the mountain. Tim-kun, Liddie-chan, are you doing well I wonder.


    [Regardless, so what you want is for something to be done about the rain so that the crops can grow right?]


    [That''s correct]


    [Most likely, due to the clouds colliding with that mountain and stagnating, it has brought endless rain to this whole area]


    Pointing at the faint hint of the mountain from outside the window as I explained. If a cloud collides into a mountain, it will bring rain below it. This is something that is taught by compulsory education, what we call common knowledge.


    [The fastest way will be to lower that mountain but]


    [You must be kidding]


    The village chief is laughing but it''s wasn''t a joke though. It would take some time but if I prepared a great amount of bomb for mining use, surely it would......well, it''s fine. Doesn''t seem like he is on board with this idea.


    The plan to secure a path for the flow of the cloud by blowing away the summit doesn''t seem possible so I have to think of some other plan.


    I changed my way of approach, even with this rain, as long as the crop grows it works out doesn''t it. In times like this, it just means something is required.


    Opening my trusty recipe book and flipping through it, fertilizer-based products would just get washed away by the rain, I don''t seem to able to find the appropriate tool.


    [Incidentally, is that peculiar clothing of yours made from vinyl wood?]


    ...At the moment, the village chief made a query while looking at the raincoat hanging by the wall.


    [Eh, vinyl wood?]


    [It can be found in the forest outside the village. The skin of vinyl wood is famous for their waterproofing capabilities, but when the younglings of the village tried to make water resistant tool from it they failed because it was too hard, or so I heard]


    Heee, from the looks of it, it''s a material in the same category as what I used to make the raincoat and umbrella previously. If large quantity of that material can be acquired......I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.


    [Please lead me to that place]


    Donning on the semi-dry raincoat, I made the request to the village chief.

 Volume 1 - CH 25

    ~Volume 1: Life in a different world is tumultuous!?~


    Chapter 25 [At the rainy village, part 4]


    [Whoa, so this is a vinyl tree]


    [That''s right. It grows in the vicinity of the village but, no matter how much the man chops at it with an axe it doesn''t fall]


    While the drizzle continues, I visited the nearby village along with my guide, Mizuri. It was there that we witnessed a bizarre spectacle.


    As if a whole tree was covered by wrapping paper, tons of such tree were present in the wild. The rain was causing it to shine which frankly, was a bit disgusting.


    [Mei-san, you look a bit stiff. Are you alright?]


    [D-don''t worry about it. Well then, I am going to start collecting]


    With that proclamation, I retrieved the fully automated axe from the bag of unlimited capacity. Having made the full collection of the automatic series, this tool should be the most optimal for chopping wood.


    [A-ara?]


    ...There should be no mistake in my choice but there wasn''t a single dent on the magnificent tree. On first look it looks like vinyl, I wonder if it has cushion-properties. The axe is bounced away on impact.


    [As I thought, it was mentioned that not even a man can topple it so it doesn''t seem like it would give in easily]


    [Wait just a moment Mizuri. When you give up, that''s when the game is over]


    Professing the catchphrase of some manga series, I opened the recipe book. If the fully automated axe doesn''t cut it, I just need an even stronger tool.


    For this reason, the fully automated saw was selected. In other words, a chainsaw.


    A large quantity of steel is needed. In addition, a substantial amount of fairy stone is also necessary. My stock of fairy stone might be starting to run out. I have been making use of all the fully automated series so I will have to select those with a lower frequency of usage to transmute and replenish my stock.


    [Alright, it''s ready!]


    Even then, I somehow managed to procure all the material required, and thus the fully automated saw is crafted. While the chainsaw moves according to my instruction, its appearance is still menacing. Mizuri is watching it from curiosity but it''s dangerous so she isn''t allowed to touch it.


    [Well then, engine on! Topple it---!]


    Going into the air from my instruction, it started vigorously cutting at the vinyl tree while making deafening noises. Peering into the opening of the now-overturned tree, the visage was indeed that of a wrapping paper with a core. Really, what a weird plant.


    Mizuri''s eyes widen as she was observing my deforestation work. It felt like she said something but the engine drowned out any external sound.


    10 trees were felled around roughly 1 hour, which I proceeded to pack inside the bag of unlimited of capacity. The sight was just like how a snake swallows a prey way bigger then itself. This too captured Mizuri''s undivided attention.


    ? ? ?


    Once the collection concluded, we returned to the village. From there, I immersed myself into the compounding work. As a large amount of material was present, it seems like I will be able to make something large-scale. For example, this.


    [Miss Mei, what could this be?]


    [A greenhouse!]


    Seeing the large translucent body I installed at the field, the village chief couldn''t help but express his surprise.


    Back in my original world, this is a familiar installation around the suburbs. Sticking to the instructions of the recipe book, an identical greenhouse was completed. The celling is properly made in a semi-circle shape, ensuring that it doesn''t retain water.


    [Within this it will prevent the rain from getting through, allowing crops to grow even if the rain doesn''t stop. It can''t be helping sunlight will be lacking but with the effort of the fertilizer it should work out somehow]


    [Amazing......so this is alchemy?]


    [That''s right! This is alchemy!]


    Taking the opportunity, I pushed my agenda. Magic won''t be able to do something like this right. Although, the old man I met previously did mention that there is magus who can manipulate the weather.


    The total amount of such greenhouse prepared was 10. They were installed in various location, encapsulating the field.


    Such structure is fundamentally weak to the gale and snow however, according to the village chief, the climate has been mild throughout the year in this area, so heavy wind is a non-factor. In that case, this greenhouse should suffice.


    [To think there is such an application for that vinyl tree]


    Staring at the greenhouse with curiosity, Mizuri let out a sigh of relief. That''s right. With this Mizuri''s fate as the human pillar is avoided. Repaying a night''s lodging and a meal to the best of my ability, that''s me, the alchemist.


    [With this, the villagers should be motivated to work on the field again. Miss alchemist, thank you from the bottom of my heart]


    Here comes the honorific! While my heart is screaming, I put up a cool front and replied with [No worries].


    [Now then, there is actually one more problem]


    [...What? One more?]


    As I was guessing what could it be, [with this area having nothing but rain, there is no prospect for tourism. I wonder if it''s possibility to borrow the power of miss alchemist to attract tourist]


    Ah, basically, it''s a request for tourism attraction. I might as well go all the way and think of something I could do with the leftover vinyl wood.


    But still, this was supposed to be a slow life but I have been busy everywhere I go. I sure would love to take it easy soon.


    ? ? ?


    [It''s done]


    In the next few days, I renovated an empty house provided by the village chief into a bathing facility.


    Expectedly, I couldn''t make a real hot spring but since that as hot spring is the classic specialty of a village......as such I installed a few big bathtubs inside it, and using sheets created from the vinyl wood as pavement, I tried making a simple public bath.


    All the bath will be heated up by the simple boiler. Well, it might possess the word "simple" in its name, unless it''s used in some extraordinary way it should last. Undoubtedly, this is a product created by the ultimate cauldron.


    It goes without saying, the most important resource for this kind of institution is water supply, thus there is no way the unending rain wouldn''t be used for benefit.


    The manager for these facilities is remarkably, Mizuri who have accepted the task.


    [This facility shall operate starting today as Mei-san''s hot spring] as she uttered something that I couldn''t tell was a joke or not.


    While listening to the explanation on how to operate the boiler, I was also asked various question about alchemy. It''s great she developed an interest.


    ...As I watched over the opening day of ¡ºMei-san''s hot spring¡», I soon left the village.


    The day of departure was also one of rain but I prayed that this village will continue to prosper without losing to the rain and wind.

 Volume 1 - CH 26

    ~Volume 1: Life in a different world is tumultuous!?~


    Chapter 26 [Heading to the mountain town]


    [Funnununu......j-just a bit more......]


    I am the travelling alchemist Mei. Today I am giving it my all at mountain climbing.


    The reason as to why I am traversing the mountain by foot is trivial. I simply felt like meeting the elder sister of Mizuri who I met at the village earlier.


    According to Mizuri, her elder sister is living at the ¡ºMountain City¡» which after I searched it up on the all-purpose map, it turned out to be nearer than I thought. With the upgraded version of the map at my liberty, not to mention the additional navigation function, I approached this light-heartedly, thinking that it would be a breeze.....


    ¡ºPlease continue heading straight¡»


    The navigator of the all-purpose map mercilessly gave the instruction to head towards a road that doesn''t exist, to the deep oblivion.


    Compared to the I had to went through previously, which had some form of road as it was connected to a settlement, it really felt like being at a rocky mountain this time round.


    [The disparity in height also makes the witch''s broom redundant, this route isn''t an option. What about an alternative?]


    ¡ºSearching for a detour. Please turn right and head straight¡»


    [Cliff---!]


    Confirming what lies in front of the detour, I looked up at the sky and shouted. The navigator seems to specifying route to the ¡ºMountain City¡» which was impossible for me a trekking beginner like me to take. What''s going on?


    [Sigh. It seems like there is no choice but to craft a tool that could help move in this steep mountain swiftly, unlike any I made before]


    Taking a short break, I set up the all-purpose tent under the cliff. While hydrating, I pondered while looking at the now-opened recipe book on my other hand.


    Because I don''t usually exercise, there is no mistaking that I will wake up with muscle ache tomorrow. I wonder if I would be covered in medicated tomorrow......while lamenting my fate I came upon the tool named ¡ºWyvern''s Boots¡».


    [Ho, wyvern''s boots.]


    From its name, it gives me the image of flying lightly in the sky. At the very least, it would be way better for movement then the shoes I currently have on and I am looking forward to that.


    Without further ado, let''s mix.


    Wasting no time, I set the cauldron and started going through the material list. Cloth and animal skin, followed by several material that doesn''t seem out of place for making a shoe, followed by ¡ºDrake''s Wing¡». Four of it, no less.


    [Drake''s wing?]


    Unthinkingly, I vocalized my thoughts. Do I have those material I wonder.


    I don''t think so, doesn''t seem like it. While those thoughts occupied my mind as I scavenge the bag of unlimited capacity, there it was, and exactly four too.


    Why did I have this again......as I traced my memories, which then reminded me of the time I battled the pair of dragons.


    Back then the objective was the drake''s eye, so it must have been from the process of breaking down the dragons. Lucky.


    ???


    [Ok, it''s done!]


    Tossing the components into the cauldron and in exchange a pair of magnificent shoes took its place. With a base color of blue and silvery green stripes, it was decorated with dragon wings around the ankle area. I think I may quite like this design.


    Putting it on, the size was a perfect fit. Well then, let''s see how it performs.


    Exiting the tent, I then stored it inside the bag of unlimited capacity. Then I headed uphill towards the cliff.


    [Jump! Uhyaah!?]


    When I jumped with all my might, as if the shoes were fitted with jet engine, I was elevated with no resistance.


    In the blink of an eye, I arrived at the midpoint of the mountain''s surface, which I then kicked off it, leading me to bounce even higher. It felt like in the past, there was a game where you had the climb a mountain in this manner.


    [Tei! Dou! Hoi!]


    I got the hang of it in no time, and in my ascension, I spotted a new bump which I used to propelled me even higher.


    Incidentally, when descending the wings at the side will flap to slow down the fall. It''s pretty fun, as if I was gliding.


    While gliding the weight-shift control allows me to safely look for a landing spot, and the smoothness when making small turns is beyond my expectation, this is pretty convenient.


    If I had to say while they are good for up-down movement, they seemed ill-suited for long distance. It seemed to be useful in places such as mountains with height difference, or inside the forest where the broom isn''t an option.


    ???


    Now that I have acquired the wyvern''s boot, once again I booted up the navigation function of the all-purpose map. Unlike before, this time I am able to follow the instructions of the navigator. In a few minutes, I arrived at the signboard that says ¡ºMountain City Thoria¡». Finally, I am here.


    [How did they make something like this here. It''s so big]


    Perhaps it''s due to the test of time but I found the gate which have eroded and is now the same color as the mountain''s surface. Rather than a city, it is more like a fort.


    [I finally made it here, so for now let''s enter]


    Overwhelmed by the size, I first took a deep breath, then proceeded to knock at the gate.


    ......No response.


    [Hmm?]


    I knocked at it once again, this time slightly stronger than before.


    Deja vu.


    [Excuse me! Is anyone around!]


    As I continued knocking and raised my voice, there still wasn''t any response. Eeeh, don''t tell me I don''t get enter even though I made it all the way here.


    Looking up at the tightly closed door, I let out a sigh. Honestly speaking, it''s a shock.


    ......Wait, what is that?


    It was then I something protruding overhead. The bump seems to be a stand for torches but it it''s that, I think I can use it as a platform.


    [Alright, if the gate won''t open, then I just have to scale the wall!]


    If it was the me before today, I would have given up but now I possesses the wyvern''s boots. In a few steps I ran up the wall and in one shot I am at the top.

 Volume 1 - CH 27

    [Alright, that was easy-!]


    Successfully scaling the wall, I then used that momentum to enter the town.


    [Ooh, it''s kinda amazing]


    To describe the cityscape I saw while gliding, the building that had a similar color to the gate were lined up in an orderly fashion, giving it a sense of unity. I have thought so before I entered but, it''s impressive that they chose such a place to build a town.


    Considering where the location is, it doesn''t seem like there is a lot of residents but, is that the shopping district over there? It definitely seemed like one, looks bustling......


    [Mugyu]


    ...Engrossed in my thoughts, that was when I felt a light impact around my lower half. At the same time, I heard a voice.


    [Ah, this is bad]


    Enthralled by the scenery, I failed to realize I was slowly going lower and lower. It seems like I bumped into the lady from the back, and as she fell the content of the basket she was carrying spilled on to the ground.


    [S-sorry. Are you ok]


    As the lone remaining individual still standing, I helped the lady up and picked up the scattered content. This is, bread I supposed.


    [Ah, what should I do. Just when I finally bought the groceries......]


    Staring at the bread that was now covered in dust, the lady expression warped as if it was the end of the world. Well, in this situation, I guess food is really valuable.


    ...Even if it''s an accident, I was the one responsible. In this case, I think I have no choice but to take responsibilities for it.


    ???


    ...In any case, I followed the lady back to her home, and compensated her for the bread.


    Taking once-fallen bread and inserting it into the bag of unlimited capacity, the goods was disassembled into wheat which I then used to make a new bread out of it.


    To be expected of a premium goods born from the ultimate cauldron, [I have never eaten such a delicious bread in my life] as she happily proclaimed which in turn gave me a sense of relief.


    [Herb tea goes well with delicious bread. Here you go]


    The lady with long braided black hair served herb tea with a smiling face. It seems like she is nurturing herbs in the garden, making this fully home-grown. Even though I was the one at fault, I am a bit ashamed.


    [Miss alchemist, you made it here by via the mountain I see. I thought for sure that you fell from the floating city]


    [What is this floating city you speak of?]


    [During this season, the floating island will pass by this town, and on the island is a town too. This city is far from other settlement, so I thought for sure you were a visitor from the floating city]


    Ehehe, as he laughed. Heeeh, there is that kind of town. As expected of a fantasy world. I have dreamed of things like of floating continent too, if possible, I would like to visit it.


    [Can you tell me more about it. Do you know about how to get there?]


    My face closes in to the lady as I sprung the question on her. Of course, if she demands something in exchange for the information I am prepared to answer to my best of my abilities.


    [The way is simple. Match the timing and jump onto the floating island from the mountain peak]


    [Eeh, what''s with that. Isn''t there a more, such as transferring via a magic circle inside a shrine or getting there by riding a dragon, something along that line?]


    Without expecting anything in return, the lady answered me. Processing the new information, I couldn''t help but bare my thoughts. There is zero semblance of fantasy in that method.


    [I don''t really get what you are saying but jumping from the peak is the simplest method. If you fail you will be seriously injured though]


    It doesn''t change the fact that you are jumping off the peak, of course you will be injured in the case of failure. Could this person be a bit airheaded I wonder.


    [...Uuun?]


    Somehow, this lady is giving me a familiar vibe that I felt. Pretty recently too.


    [Excuse me, I apologize if I am mistaken but do you happen to have a younger sister at the village at the foot of the mountain?]


    As I questioned without much thought, her face changed into one of surprise. Following up with [Could you be Mizuri''s elder sister], [That''s right! That''s right!] she excitedly confirmed.


    Now that I have think of it, they have the same hair color and I don''t know whether is it her gestures or her presence but they definitely felt like sisters.


    ...But Mizuri said that her sister resembles me......or something along that line, but is that really true?


    [You met Mizuri? Is she doing well?]


    [Y-yes. She''s doing well]


    The lady whose tension was clearly going through the roof belatedly introduced herself as Aque, and she enquired everything including the smallest details about her distant sister.


    It''s not as if I know a lot but I recalled the exchange with Mizuri when dining and bathing together and somehow managed to answer the barrage of questions.


    [She''s currently the manager for the hot spring facilities] as I relayed the news, [That girl? You are really good at joking, miss alchemist] I was met with a chuckle. It''s true though.


    [...That girl have been careless even way back then, she would want to help even though she messed up a lot. But that makes it even cuter]


    Eventually, it went from questioning to reminiscence, and every memory would end with the punchline of [My little sister is cute]. At this point, I thought to myself that I stepped on a landmine which I regretted but it was already too late.


    ...Incidentally, I did not mention that Mizuri almost became a human pillar up till the very end. This person seems to be very doting towards Mizuri so it''s wise not to make her worried.


    ???


    [Given the occasion, please stay over today. I will treat you to our specialty, Toria Chicken]


    With my hand holding onto the fifth refill of herb and hearing tales of the sisterly love, it has gotten dark.


    It is said that a day at the mountain pass by faster, my body and heart are also almost at its limit. I decided to take up her offer.


    [By the way, what is this Toria Chicken you speak of?]


    [At the edge of the town there is an aviary, and using the Toria bird grown for agriculture as ingredient, it''s the specialty cuisine of this town. The chicken is covered in spice and then grilled]


    From what I can deduce, perhaps it''s something like Tandoori Chicken. I am looking forward to it.


    ...Or so I thought, while looking forward to dinner with inflated expectations, it suddenly became noisy outside. Now, I wonder what could be happening.

 Volume 1 - CH 28

    As we were in the midst of talking about dinner, it suddenly got rowdy outside.


    Is something going on? Peeking out the window from curiousity, a gigantic bird was cutting across the sky. What the hell is that!?


    [Oh dear, it''s Almagos]


    Aque who was looking out of the window alongside me said without much of a reaction.


    [Alma......what?]


    [It''s the monstrous bird who have made it nest in the vicinity of this town. Undoubtedly, the Toria birds at the farm are going to devoured again]


    After that statement, she moved the furnitures that we were just sitting on and moved the carpet that was laid on the floor, unveiling a sturdy door beneath.


    [As long as we don''t disturb it, it would be fine so let''s hide in the basement. Now then, please proceed, miss Alchemist]


    Opening the door with a clicking sound, she prompted me to enter first. Even still, she''s quite calm. I wonder if this is an everyday occurence for the citizens of this town.


    [...More like, wait a minute. That monstrous bird eats toria bird?]


    [That''s right that''s right. The reason why Almagos approaches this town is for the Toria birds at the farm. She is a carnivore after all]


    She told me with a grinning face. By "she" does that means the bird is a female? So she''s an predatory woman?


    This isn''t the time to think about such pointless thing. At this rate all the Toria bird will be eaten. That means the dinner I was looking forward to. I will not let that happen.


    [Aque, are you all you troubled by that monstrous bird''s rampage?]


    [Eh? Well, it''s troubling but at the same time not really]


    [It''s troubling right?]


    [Y-yes. It''s troubling]


    I applied a bit of pressure, and Aque then nodded perplexedly. Umu, very well.


    [Then, I shall drive it away. It''s dangerous so take cover here]


    Relaying that, I made an U-turn. It is indeed big but it''s just a bird in the end. If I threaten it with a bomb it should flee.


    [E-erm]


    ...At that moment, I could hear someone calling out me.


    [Make sure to be extra careful. The mr. soldier who was serving as the gatekeeper challenged Almagos alone yesterday was eaten so]


    Uwaah, I didn''t wanted to hear that information. So this is why there isn''t a lookout at the gate.


    The weak me stuck out my head for just a slight moment before retreating. I have already said this much so I am not going to back out now. It''s to eat or be eaten.


    For the sake of my dinner, I will fight!


    ???


    Leaving Aque''s house in the spur of the moment and equip myself with the invisible shield, wyvern''s boots. In addition, I took out the bombs and headed for the sky on the witch''s broom.


    From a long distance away was a bird with a pair of silver wings and a crimson red head hovering in the air while screeching. Even from this distance it looks gigantic.


    But still, recently I feel like I have only been fighting boss class monster like dragon or the lord of the take. Really, where did my sense of fear go. Well, whatever.


    While reflecting, I eventually got closed to the monstrous bird. You''re in my range! Victory goes to the one who makes the first move! Take this!


    I threw the Bolt Dragon Bomb at it to the best of my abilities but it was dodged magnificently. It''s fast!?


    ...Right after that, it countered with a flame breath. I protected myself with the invisible shield but it almost cooked me to well-done.


    [Kyaa---! You''re a bird yet you can spit fire, that''s cheating!]


    Calling it out while attempting to retreat for the moment, the enraged enemy proceeded to chase me.


    There is a limit to how high the broom can go, and it is inferior in speed too. Furthermore, against an enemy whose main way of movement is flying it''s disadvantageous......while pondering my next moves, the flame breath came again! Emergency evasion!


    Using the broom as stepping stone, I made a full jump with the wyvern''s boot. The height I went to surprised even me.


    [Alright, I got you!]


    I who was now at the prime position attacked the bird from behind with all the bomb in my disposal. He......no, she displayed her excellent speed but even then, attacks directly from on top of her head are impossible to dodge completely.


    It took a direct hit on its right wing and lost balance for a moment. The wound wasn''t fatal as it shortly regained its posture and fled far away.


    Watching over that scene while gliding, I proceeded to retrieve the broomstick, and returned to the ground. Haa, it worked out somehow.


    [Are you ok, miss alchemist?]


    [Ah, mm. I was a bit surprised by its size, but it worked out somehow]


    Seeing that I have landed, Aque ran up to me.


    [She suffered a wound to her wing so I doubt she will return until she has recovered]


    [That''s true. We should be safe for a while]


    At the very least, tonight will be a safe one and with that fact I let the tension escape my chest.


    [By the way, that broom......could it be that the alchemist role is a pretense and you are actually an elite magus?]


    [Hee?]


    The abruptness of that question made me let out a funny sound.


    N-no, no. I am a genuinely, the one and only alchemist Mei. I felt like this is not the first time I am experiencing this.


    [Erm Aque, I am......]


    [There she is, it''s that girl!]


    [She drove away that monstrous bird. Who exactly is she?]


    As I desperately try to correct her, people were flooding in from the streets that was freshly dyed red.


    [From how you battled, you must be a magus]


    [That''s wrong. I am an alchemist]


    [But that broom, no matter how you look at it you are a magus right]


    [This is just my means of transport! There is no deeper meaning!]


    Keeping the broom which was now the center of attention inside the bag, I raised my voice trying to correct them.


    However, the more I try to make excuses the messier it got.


    Praises like [as expected of a magus] or [to think a magus would come to such a place] were drowning any of my attempt to speak, I was unable to convey my message at all.


    Letting out a big sigh, I dropped my shoulder in disappointment. Technically I did spread my name here but it was not as an alchemist. Gununu.


    ...No matter how convenient it is, it might be time to retire the broom. I feel like it is one of the prime sources for the misunderstandings.


    While being dragged around by the citizens who wanted to hold a celebration, those were the thoughts going through my mind.