24 This Hero Heads Into The Forest!

"Kenji, what's the hold up? Are we going into the forest or are we not?"

I've been hesitating at the edge of this forest for a few moments trying to remember some information I've heard before. After some time, I remembered what I needed to and told Tael why I was being wary.

"I've heard that people get lost in forests easily. Even if people only go a short distance they can easily get lost."

"Oh… You're right. We don't have a druid or anything so finding our way out is probably going to be fairly hard."

We both stood at the edge of the forest, saying nothing. The awkward silence between us shows how unprepared we really are.

I don't want to just stand here and give up. I've only defeated a single slime today. That's not enough to decide to give up, not after all I've prepared for.

After some inner debating, I came up with an idea.

"There are hills that stick out from the treetops, right?"

"Yeah?"

"When we need to leave, let's climb the hills and find our way out by using those."

"Good idea, Kenji! This is why I took you under my wing!"

Though this is a flimsy plan, I'm still antsy to get things done today. I know this probably isn't an optimal idea, but I want to get this done. I can't stay level 0 forever.

With our mutual agreement on my impulsive decision, we began to trudge into the forest. The sound of birds chirping and leaves waving created a constant cacophony of the forest. Though the canopy of leaves did block the sunlight, there was still enough to be able to see the floor without being impeded. The floor is covered in very thick grass. I'm glad I'm wearing boots or else I would probably be covered in ticks by now.

"Hmm… I don't know if I can use my magic here…"

"Eh? What did you just say?"

"W-well, it should be fine! My firebolts may be mighty, but I doubt even they can burn down such a magnificent forest! Yeah I was worrying for nothing! Haha!"

Tael just said something dangerous. Instead of assuring me that he had control of the situation, he instead elected to whistle to brush off the issue.

"Hey… can you cast any spells other than firebolt?"

"Nope! I'm a level 1 wizard after all. My magic is the most basic of the basic."

I slugged him in the stomach once again.