Chapter 12 [Edge Village 1. To the Village]
"Wow, you came all this way just to search for medicinal herbs?"
"We're not knowledgeable, but are there remarkable medicinal herbs around here?"
"Well, in my country and this one, the fauna and flora are different. Even common herbs here might not grow in my country. Honestly, I'm not good at distinguishing herbs, but it's a request I've received."
Pretending as if I arrived after crossing the mountains and reaching the outskirts of the village, I made contact with the villagers. Without showing any suspicion toward me emerging from the mountains, they warmly engaged with the obvious foreigner. While talking to one person in the field initially, two more joined, and now three villagers are guiding me to the village.
"But seriously, you're quite the curious person. Taking such a strange request and coming all the way to this rural place."
"The way nobles think is quite different."
"Haha, I'm not really a noble... Does it seem that way?"
"If you're traveling with creatures like lizards and slimes, it's something us poor folks could never imagine."
"Yeah, creatures that won't feed you and are useless. We don't have the luxury for such things here."
"Are they pets? Kids might keep bugs, but grown-ups here wouldn't bother with that."
Indeed, at the moment, I have Rai and Keen accompanying me. I intended to make contact with the villagers alone, but my companions vehemently opposed. They argued that it's unimaginable for me to act alone, given the risks of being an otherworldly being, having otherworldly food, and being a dungeon master.
In the end, I selected Rai and Keen as companions, considering that having them as pets wouldn't be too conspicuous. However, according to the villagers, just having pets makes me stand out.
"Well, for now, I'll introduce you to the village chief, and from there, you can discuss matters with the chief."
"Oh, by the way, what's the name of this village?"
"Hmm? Oh, this village is called Edge Village. It means at the edge of the country."
Thus, I successfully made contact with the residents of Edge Village and was scheduled to meet with the village's leader.
"Master, you handled that well."
"I'm truly impressed."
"Just because it's not your forte doesn't mean you can avoid it, especially as a human."
....
"Ah, searching for medicinal herbs, eh?"
"Yes, but I won't be collecting actual specimens. My job involves researching the types of medicinal herbs used here, gathering samples, and recording information to bring back."
"Not planning to deplete all the medicinal herbs, are you?"
"No, not at all. If possible, I'd appreciate hearing stories during breaks. However, I travel with just myself, and I have nothing to offer as thanks."
As I spoke with the village chief, I realized something. I had no usable assets. I didn't possess any of their currency, and I had nothing for barter. Bringing Earth items could cause unforeseen trouble. The meat my companions caught was also unsuitable – all seasonings and spices were Earth-made, and their effects in this world were unknown. However, presenting unseasoned meat or smoked meat without flavor seemed unnatural. It was a dilemma. I had to figure something out.
"Master, I've heard that fur, fangs, and magic stones are used in trade."
Ah, that's right, Keen. Let's go with that.
"Master, then, can't we use gems or ores?"
Good thinking, Rai. My companions are all quite resourceful.
"Alright, alright, then no need to haggle with our traveler. Don't worry and ask anything you want."
"Thank you very much. In that case..."
Taking advantage of the kind village chief's generosity, I learned about several medicinal herbs. In any case, it wouldn't hurt to know about them while operating in this world. In return, I shared information about Earth's past lifestyle within reasonable limits.
"Well then, how about a place to stay for the night?"
"Huh? I was thinking of just camping somewhere in the mountains..."
"No, no, that won't do. It'll be quite a hassle. If you don't mind a simple place, we have a mountain hut."
Surprisingly, he offered to lend an unused mountain hut. It was somewhat worn out, but I was expected to fix it up myself. Since it was an unexpected offer, I thanked him and accepted.