Saving him from the clutches of the forest seems to take little effort. No, it was probably only that simple because Tonbokiri is a strong sword spirit. This is exactly why he doesn't go into the woods without a companion who can protect him!

"Thanks, you saved me! And it better be close now."

It is, in fact, not that long before a small clearing emerges, and Keigo perks up. Too bad there isn't a shining magic stone waiting for them there, just a cauldron and a bunch of things that look like they could be from an old-fashioned chemistry lab. Wait, chemistry...?