I work as an office clerk at Black Corporation, where one of my tasks includes handling accounting duties. Normally, this would be the job of an accountant, but due to unreasonable demands that lump all office work together, I find myself juggling accounting tasks as well.

Black Corporation is primarily involved in foreign trade logistics, and the workload is immense. I have to sort through expenses and receipts brought by the sales team, all while managing other office duties.

There are two other female office workers. One is over fifty and, frankly, doesn't really work. No, that came out wrong. She's in charge of the reception at our company's showroom, which sees about ten visitors a month. There's definitely time to help with office work, right?

The other is a young woman, a former bank employee, probably in her early twenties. She seems to have had a rough time at the bank and now comes to work in what looks like 'gal makeup.' She does her job well, but it's... hard to approach her.

"Mr. Abe," called Ms. Yabazawa, the one with the gal makeup, which was unusual.

"Yes, what is it?"

She showed me a receipt for snacks, obviously sneaked in by the older woman. I didn't want to point it out, but I felt I couldn't leave it to Ms. Yabazawa either.

"Thank you for finding this. I'll talk to her about it."

"Mr. Abe, you seem happy about something?"

Despite her makeup, Ms. Yabazawa speaks politely and does her job well.

"Can you tell?" I found myself smiling, thinking of Mizumochi.

"Ew! Creepy!"

That was a shock! Being called creepy by a young woman... Should I cry?

"Oh, sorry... your laugh was just a bit... sorry."

"No, I'm sorry for laughing creepily."

Why do I have to apologize... I feel like crying.

"No, it's good that you're happy," she said with a smile.

She's actually quite cute when she smiles... I'm sorry for judging by appearances.

"Yes! When good things happen, work feels easier. Let's do our best today!"

"Thank you."

Maybe it's thanks to Mizumochi, but after talking with Ms. Yabazawa, I felt lighter.

Coming home in high spirits, I greeted Mizumochi, "I'm back. Something good happened today."

Entering my room, I noticed Mizumochi had shrunk!

"Why are you small again? You were as big as a comforting cushion when I left this morning!"

Mizumochi was back to the size when we first met. Surprised, I immediately sought advice from Anju's blog.

"If a magical creature is unwell... what? They need magical energy? What does that mean?"

Reading Anju's blog, it seems that magical creatures like Mizumochi consume their own magical energy if they aren't near dungeons or magical power spots, which can lead to their death.

"So, does this mean I have to take Mizumochi to a dungeon, or it'll die? I don't want Mizumochi to die, but isn't it dangerous for me to enter a dungeon?"

Feeling anxious and fearful, I glanced at the booklet on the table.

"Beginner's Guide to Adventuring?"

Curious, I started reading.

What is an adventurer?

Adventurer rank system

Types of dungeons

Beginner's equipment list

Items obtained from dungeons

It was a basic guide to being an adventurer. I found a section about a special dungeon with only one boss monster, where there's no combat and you can exit anytime.

"Can I handle this place?"

Mizumochi, now palm-sized.

If this is its weakened state, I want to make it better soon.

"Alright, Mizumochi. I promise to make you well again."

Resolved, I decided to take Mizumochi to a dungeon.

Putting Mizumochi in my backpack, I set off on my Super Cub.

The special dungeon caught my eye because it was close to home. It seemed doable even at night.

"It's surprising to find a dungeon here. This could be a good spot for walks."

The dungeon seemed more like a large cave with a big door at the far end. Just walking there and back. Really, just a walk. But that was enough for Mizumochi to grow as big as a Shiba Inu.

"Oh! Mizumochi, are you feeling better? I'm so happy!"

I hugged Mizumochi, who quivered happily, and we shared our joy.

"I needed exercise too. Since it's close, let's walk here daily."

Mizumochi vibrated happily at my words.

"Hehe, ever since meeting Mizumochi, it's been one good thing after another. Thank you for lifting my spirits, sharing meals, and now walks."

Grateful, I expressed my thanks, and Mizumochi actively jumped into my chest. Holding it, Mizumochi quivered.

Is this like a cat's purring? Another memory made with Mizumochi.