Chapter 6 [ Companions]
Let's try out this telepathy skill. Starting with Rai, the slime, as we've been together the longest.
『Rai, can you hear me?』
『Yes? Is it Master?』
The voice that comes through telepathy sounds like that of a young boy. Even in telepathy, there's a distinct tone. This way, I can tell who's speaking.
『That's right. Sorry for giving you a name without asking.』
『Not at all. You saved me when I was about to die of hunger, gave me a name, and I appreciate it.』
『I see. Honestly, I just came up with some random food to feed you. Any dislikes or any health issues from eating that?』
『None at all. In fact, I've received plenty of food, and my body feels great.』
『I see. Let's continue working together.』
『Yes, Master.』
Rai's way of speaking is somewhat hesitant. It feels like a young child talking. Even in telepathy, there's a difference in articulation.
Next up... Oh, Keen seems to be missing. Let's go with Slay.
『Slay, can you hear me?』
『This is your Master. Yes, I hear you loud and clear.』
Judging from the voice alone, Slay seems to be a sturdy, mature man.
『I kind of made you all my companions without asking for your opinions. I hope that's okay?』
『What are you saying? I, and everyone else, were on the brink of death, and you saved us, Master. Far from minding, I'm pondering how to repay this favor on my end.』
『I see. For reference, could you explain the Earth and Wood Magic skills you possess?』
『Certainly. Our species, originally responsible for decomposing fallen leaves and dead wood, occasionally gives rise to individuals with Earth Magic due to the nutrients we return to the soil. I didn't have this skill initially, but after eating the food you provided, I gained the ability to use it. As for Wood Magic, our clan hadn't produced anyone with the skill until now, but it seems to be acquired through the influence of improving soil quality.』
『So, my food was the cause... Understood, I'll rely on you in the future, too.』
『Yes, I'll do my best to assist you.』
Hmm, not only the voice but also the way of speaking is quite different between Rai and Slay. Slay's way of talking is, well, like a noble's butler. Sebastian might have been a better name. Nah, Slay is fine. Oh, speaking of which...
『Slay, sorry for forgetting to ask. Why were you on the verge of death? Hypha seemed almost dried up, too...』
『Due to consecutive droughts, the nearby water source dried up.』
Now it's Hypha's turn. Lately, Hypha has grown enough to cover the walls of the cave - or rather, dungeon.
『Hypha, how about it? Can you hear me?』
『Yes... Master... I can hear you.』
Hypha's voice sounds fragmented, like gender-neutral synthesized speech. Even though it's a mushroom speaking...
『I made you my companion without permission. I hope that's okay.』
『I... only feel gratitude toward Master...』
『I fed you something weird, but there are no health problems, right?』
『I'm okay... Rather, I feel... overflowing power.』
『Alright, then. Can you explain your skills?』
『Yes... Our kind... decomposes fallen leaves and decayed wood... returning nutrients to the soil... I gained Earth Magic through this process... Wood Magic is unknown in our clan... but I believe it's acquired by influencing soil quality... The Mycelium Network is a unique skill given to me by Master...』
『Ah, a unique skill? Sounds promising.』
『Yes... I wish to be of help...』
Since Hypha's mycelium extends outside the cave - no, the dungeon, it seems to be taking over monitoring and scouting duties for us, which is quite helpful.
Now, what about Keen? Where the heck did that guy go?
『Hey, Keen. Can you hear me? Where are you?』
『Ah, Master. I'm outside the cave right now.』
Keen's voice is energetic, like that of a lively boy. Energetic is good, but...
『Outside? What are you doing there?』
『Um, I can use fire magic now. I wanted to try it out, but it's dangerous inside the cave, so I went outside.』
No, not only the voice but also the behavior seems mischievous.
『Ah, so you were testing it out. How did it go?』
『It was amazing! With one breath, the Red Boar turned completely black!』
『... Wait, Keen. What did you just say? What happened exactly?』
『Ah, the Red Boar - a large boar. Since we had it, Master, could you widen the entrance?』
『Widen it? How... Oh, I see. With the Dungeon Master's power, you can open and close entrances. Like this?』
『Ah, thank you, Master!』
I can't believe my eyes... A lizard about twenty centimeters tall dragging in a two-meter boar. The benefits of the enhanced physical ability skill are beyond expectations.
The smell of the charred boar is wafting through the air. Rather than absorbing it all into the dungeon, we decided to have an impromptu feast. The Red Boar, an otherworldly creature, seems quite edible despite being fully roasted. I also indulged in a substantial amount.
Absorbing the rich magical essence of the otherworldly beast's meat... to the fullest.
Postscript After bringing in the boar, I promptly narrowed the entrance of the dungeon again.