The weakest tamer, who was expelled because they could only tame the lowest-ranked trash monsters, awakens the "Breeder" ability. Eventually, they become a hero commanding extraordinary divine beasts and mythical creatures. - Chapter 66

**Episode 066: Journey**

The next day, we decided to head to Evil Mountain for evolution.

“Well then, since we won’t be back for a few days…”

“Be careful out there!!”

“I know.”

Upon realizing she wouldn’t see me for a while, Airi turned her face away petulantly, puffing her cheeks.

Guess I’ll have to buy some sweets again to appease her mood.

Before heading to Evil Mountain, we stocked up on plenty of food and sweets, said goodbye to Sasha, and set off.

This time, we’re traveling on foot. It’ll take about two days to reach Evil Mountain.

Although we could earn more in Silver Canyon with Sasha’s help, considering evolution, we’ll have to keep going there for a while.

Our familiars aren’t large enough to carry us, so it might be worth considering acquiring some means of transportation.

“Oh, you’re new around here.”

“Yes. It’s my first time going to Evil Mountain since reaching C-rank.”

“I see. Be careful out there.”

“Thank you.”

After exchanging brief greetings with the mercenaries who had come by carriage, we parted ways.

They also had carriages. Seems like having one would be beneficial after all.

“It’s been a while since I’ve seen this.”

As I murmured, I looked at the peaceful scenery spreading to the west of the town.

Since starting at the academy, I never thought I’d have the leisure to travel like this, always being busy with various tasks.

Now there’s no need to rush, and since it’s not a guard mission, there’s no need to worry about anyone else.

In that case, I’ll enjoy this journey to the fullest.

I walked while enjoying the scenery.

Most of the people passing by were fellow adventurers. The rest were merchants. Evil Mountain is part of the mountain range, so it’s not frequented by people of other professions.

At the foot of Evil Mountain is a village created by merchants who do business with mercenaries, where you can get some supplies.

I’m curious about what it’s like.

Though I occasionally saw monsters, I’ve become quite strong now, so there weren’t any foolish ones attacking.

“Let’s take a break soon.”

After a few hours of walking, we found a place where a small river flowed, so we decided to take a break.

Since there was no one else around, I let everyone out of the ranch to play.

“You can play around for a while, but don’t go too far.”

Everyone happily ran around nearby upon hearing my voice.

Seeing them like that, I couldn’t help but feel that I was making them feel cramped. I’ve heard that the stable stalls aren’t uncomfortable, but…

While it’s fine in the city, I want to be able to freely take everyone around outside without worries. To do that, becoming stronger is the best option, but with only moderate strength, we might end up crushed by the unreasonable violence of monster hordes or the power of nobles.

So, either I quietly and carefully become stronger on my own, or I rely on someone strong to protect me and get stronger.

But covertly getting stronger might soon reach its limit. Everyone’s changes are becoming too obvious, and we’re starting to stand out through our actions.

When I think of someone strong, Sasha comes to mind, but Sasha can’t leave the forest, and her existence isn’t known to others.

If I were to wield power, I’d likely end up bowing before that threat, but I don’t want to make Sasha an enemy of humans.

In that case, there’s also the option of not going home until I become strong, but I can’t leave my sister feeling lonely again.

“Come back here.”

After finishing our break and calling everyone back, we resumed our journey towards Evil Mountain.

After a few hours, as the sun began to set, we found a suitable place and started preparing for camping.

“Shall we cook today?”

Since we’re camping, instead of pre-made food like before, I decided to cook from scratch.

It’s still just simple soup and skewers, though.

As everyone came out, they looked at my cooking with drooling mouths.

Come to think of it, everyone’s bodies have grown bigger recently, so they’ve been eating more.

Taking that into consideration, if we don’t plan and buy ingredients and food, they’ll quickly run out.

Let’s be careful.

The freshly cooked food outside was incredibly delicious.

As the night grew colder, we took turns keeping watch and huddled together to sleep.

The next day, it started raining soon after we set out.

“Leave it to me!!”

Normally, we’d get soaked, but Lita activated her Protection Wind, and the rain was deflected and disappeared before it could hit us.

Thanks to that, we were able to continue our journey without being exposed to the rain.

Today, I’m accompanied by Lita and Chloro as we move forward.

“What’s that…”

After walking for a few hours, we came across a carriage that had gotten stuck in the mud after overtaking us.

“Hello. Do you need help?”

The merchant, the owner of the carriage, showed a disappointed expression, perhaps because I didn’t seem very strong.

But seeming to need any help he could get, he nodded at my offer.

“Phew!”

“Huh!?”

As I helped the carriage escape from the mud right before their eyes, the merchant’s eyes widened.

Then, he immediately adopted a fawning attitude, and we ended up being given a ride in the carriage to the village at the foot of Evil Mountain.

“Welcome to Evil Merchant Town.”

And a few hours later, we arrived at the foothills of Evil Mountain.

The merchant who gave us a ride turned back and smiled.