Chapter 37

"Hey, Sharon, you're late. Welcome back."

"Thanks, I'm home."

When I returned to Torte's house, Frey and the others were munching on freshly baked cookies. They were simple plain cookies, but they were shaped like cats, making them quite adorable.

"Still, where did you go?"

"Hehehe..."

I thought if I said I went to the dungeon alone, I might get scolded, so I just laughed. Frey seemed to be caught up in it and laughed too.

"Welcome back, nya~!"

Tarte quickly came out with a tray of tea and cookies. It seems she had prepared a portion for me as well. It smelled really good.

"Looks delicious! Thanks, Tarte."

"You're welcome, nya."

I took the tea from the smiling Tarte and sighed in relief. The freshly baked cookies were even more delicious than I imagined, and my cheeks felt like they might fall off.

As I was enjoying my tea leisurely, I realized Tarte was staring at me intently. It seemed like she wanted to say something. When I tilted my head, Tarte opened her mouth.

"Sharon, I want you to take me as your apprentice, nya!"

"---What?"

Her sudden words made not only me but also Torte, Frey, Luna, and Leena blink in surprise. It was unexpected for everyone.

...Did she get hyped up because I used the Alchemist skill for the first time yesterday?

"Tarte, I'm not an Alchemist but a Healer. So I can't be your master, sorry..."

Maybe because I taught her about materials and the process of making potions, Tarte might have misunderstood that I am an Alchemist. However, it seemed that wasn't the case, as Tarte shook her head vigorously.

"I know, nya! But I still want to be your apprentice, nya. ...You showed me a new world, even though I've been stuck inside the house for so long, nya!"

"Tarte..."

Suddenly, Tarte reminded me of myself from a while ago—when my engagement was broken and I left the country. The me who wanted to go on adventures and see the world. Something inside me agreed with Tarte. I had been thinking I wanted companions for my travels to various places, and having an Alchemist with me would be very reassuring. Our levels also matched. But, an apprentice, an apprentice... I don't think I can just give a quick answer, especially since Tarte is only seven years old.

As I was pondering, Frey agreed with a "Why not!"

"Tarte has recovered from her illness, so she can do what she likes. I think that's wonderful! Of course, if she wants to be Sharon's apprentice, she needs Sharon's permission. And of course, Tarte's family's permission as well."

"...Sharon, big sister, please, nya! I want to become a full-fledged Alchemist, nya!"

Her eyes, filled with hope, were dazzling.

I glanced at Torte, who seemed to be thinking about what to do. Tarte is a young sister, and even though she has recovered from her illness, it's natural to be worried about her going on adventures.

"Please, big sister, nya!"

"Tarte... ...Alright, nya. If you're that determined, I'll support you, nya. I want Tarte to see the world beyond this island, nya."

"Thank you, nya!"

With Torte's permission, Tarte's expression brightened. Then everyone's gaze turned to me. The only thing left was my permission.

...Hmm, what a difficult decision.

If she travels with me, it means I'll have to teach her about my secret—my game knowledge. Well, it's not that I can't teach her. There's no rule that says I can't.

I sighed and looked at Tarte.

"...I have a dream of seeing the world, so it won't be easy to follow me."

"I'll build up my stamina, nya! I'm feeling much better, nya!"

Tarte seemed determined to level up and was full of resolve. It seemed like her determination was genuine.

"Alright. I'm not an Alchemist, but... I'll be your master."

"Thank you, nya! Master!"

"Master...!"

Being called "Master" by such a cute young Kitsu girl, I couldn't help but feel affectionate. Tarte, I'll make you the best Alchemist in the world. I'm a woman who does what she says, so be prepared!