Nearly a year and a half had passed since Kevin inexplicably transmigrated into this body. This period wasn't long, but it wasn't short either—at least Kevin had gradually gotten used to this world.
As time flowed, Kevin's understanding of pharmaceuticals deepened. Simultaneously, his own strength and Nen volume grew stronger by the day, relying on his Nen ability. Based on this, the level of potions he could create rose accordingly.
However, Kevin was currently stuck at a bottleneck.
It had already been a year and a half since he transmigrated. Though this body had some foundation initially, it must be admitted its base was not actually outstanding. This was, of course, due to the original body's personality.
This body brought Kevin an additional Nen ability, as well as absolute control over Nen resulting from the unexpected situation caused by the intersection of the original owner's death and his transmigration. Both were very powerful "cheat codes."
Kevin's own Nen ability category was Enhancer, but the original body was Specialization. From a physical perspective, this body was not compatible with Enhancer. After all, the soul had been replaced—various issues were bound to arise. The characteristic of Enhancer—good physique—was not reflected at all in this body.
Therefore, Kevin used potions combined with high-intensity training to significantly improve his body's strength, even reaching its current limit. This was the high-intensity change brought about by potions.
At this stage, one should ideally tap into the body's potential to stimulate more Nen volume. But the problem was, this also encountered a bottleneck. If he spent a lot of time training slowly, his strength would certainly continue to improve, but achieving a rapid breakthrough in the short term was basically impossible. This was also a problem brought about by transmigration. Though Kevin had some talent, that talent was limited under certain circumstances. Without the boost from potions, his training of Nen abilities—including Nen excavation—could only be described as "not bad."
At this moment, the potions Kevin currently possessed could no longer fundamentally improve his strength. [Strength Potion] had already become ineffective for increasing Nen—after all, it was only a C-grade potion. [Digestion Potion] was even more useless, because the key limiting Kevin's strength improvement was the limit of his body. Furthermore, the amount of food he could eat was ultimately limited, even switching entirely to high-energy food—the amount he could consume was still finite.
Under these circumstances, he needed to change his thinking.
Initially, when Kevin concocted potions, he could only reasonably combine the "materials" he had on hand. After all, the materials he could obtain at that time were extremely limited—he could only make full use of these limited resources to strengthen himself. Therefore, the effectiveness of the potions produced depended on the combination of materials he had, rather than his own subjective will and ideas. It was a matter of necessity—there were only so many materials.
But now, Kevin was no longer lacking in materials. All sorts of complex materials had piled up quite a bit. Though the grade of these materials wasn't necessarily high, they could all evoke a deep desire within him. Moreover, he was now a professional Hunter, and his strength was not insignificant. It was time to take the initiative.
He should shift from deciding on potions based on materials to determining the required potions and then searching for the corresponding materials.
So, what kind of potion did he need at the moment?
"One that can achieve bursts, increase, or restore Nen volume."
This was the type of potion he needed—a conclusion drawn from experience using [Strength Potion]. His [Blank Meteor], during use, could achieve basic level growth by remembering the effects of potions. But the prerequisite was that the potion used must possess this capability and be of a higher grade than [Strength Potion]. Otherwise, it might not produce the desired effect.
With this goal clearly defined, Kevin began thinking about what materials were needed. After numerous potion concoctions and in-depth understanding of various medicinal ingredients, Kevin was confident he could find some clues. And he did take action.
Effort pays off—he finally found a clue.
[The Hen That Lays Golden Eggs]
Doesn't it sound strange, as if it's something from a fable? However, unlike the world he came from, in this world full of supernatural powers, there truly exist magical beasts, phantom beasts, and rare beasts in the wild. Through various pieces of information recorded via Hunter channels, Kevin was surprised to discover this type of hen actually existed—it was a [Rare Beast]. Though specific information was not yet exhaustive, someone had indeed discovered it, and there were relevant records and clues for self-discovery.
More importantly, golden eggs produced by this type of hen had been auctioned, and there was also a specimen made from its body. According to intelligence, the source of the golden egg and the specimen was the same person. Of course, this person was not Begetto.
Kevin couldn't find clues about who took the hen specimen, nor did he obtain relevant information. However, he did find clues about that "golden egg." Two years ago, this golden egg was successfully bid on by Begetto. It was precisely because of this that Kevin came here—and to expand his clientele incidentally.
At this moment, Begetto listened to Kevin explain his purpose and quietly gazed at him.
"I won't hide it from you. When I bid on this golden egg, it was mainly because I detected vitality within it. I am a Conservation Hunter, so you should understand my purpose." Hearing this, Kevin nodded. In fact, when he found this information, he had already guessed this. Begetto most likely wanted to hatch the golden hen from this golden egg, which fit perfectly with his profession as a Conservation Hunter. And this was indeed the case.
However, Begetto shook his head with a face full of regret. "I still underestimated this rare beast. Though this golden egg has vitality, in essence, it's like the difference between a regular egg and a fertilized egg."
Kevin nodded in understanding. Such an explanation was simple and direct—easy to grasp. Most eggs consumed daily aren't fertilized; even incubated, they won't hatch chicks. This golden egg might be a similar situation.
Having said that, Begetto stood up. "Alright, seeing as you've sold me so many potions, I'll take it out and let you have a look." After all, Kevin could be considered a good friend, and the golden egg wasn't, in a sense, a particularly precious collection for him. He thought for a moment and agreed. Saying this, he picked up his briefcase and walked out. When he reached the door, he turned back and glanced at Kevin, who was about to get up.
"You're not allowed to follow me. Just sit here. I'll get it for you."
Looking at Begetto's slightly guarded eyes, Kevin rolled his eyes helplessly. "Am I going to steal it from you? Honestly, you don't trust me at all. I'm someone recognized by the Double-Headed Wolf."
"That's still a no." Begetto refused resolutely. He also participated in the Double-Headed Wolf's conservation work and naturally knew some of its characteristics, but no meant no. This had nothing to do with kindness—kind people also have their own preferences. He had now roughly figured out some rules of Kevin's Nen ability, at least understanding his level of desire for materials. He knew clearly what treasures were stored in his personal vault. If he let Kevin in, wouldn't it be like letting a mouse into a rice bin? Absolutely not. Once he let him in, Kevin would definitely set his sights on them. Then Kevin would try every means to exchange those treasures from him—too troublesome.
Kevin definitely wouldn't resort to crooked means, but that was precisely what made him troublesome. The other party would definitely use exchange conditions, and Begetto wasn't sure he wouldn't want to make an exchange. So he simply wouldn't let Kevin go in and see. Thinking this, he walked out and closed the door behind him.
Kevin pouted helplessly and had no choice but to sit back down. He really wanted to follow and see what was inside. One should know that Begetto was Jin's disciple. Recalling the small gift Jin had given him before—that was the material with the highest energy intensity Kevin possessed, reaching peak B-grade. As Jin's disciple, Begetto must have worked with Jin before, perhaps even being one of the members of Jin's team. Kevin didn't believe Begetto's small vault didn't contain B-grade materials. What a pity—no chance to see this time. But there was no need to rush; there would be plenty of opportunities in the future. Kevin quietly made a mental note.
Not long after, Begetto walked in again, holding a small box covered with a cloth. He placed the box on the table and slowly lifted the cloth.
In an instant, golden light burst forth.
"It actually glows? I thought it was a special effect in the photo or an angle issue before." Inside the transparent circular container, the golden egg emitted a dazzling golden light.
After adapting to the light, Kevin began to observe carefully. From appearance alone, this golden egg looked like an egg forged from gold—both shape and size no different from a regular egg. Moreover, the surface was not smooth and flat, but like a regular egg, had a fine granular, matte texture.
After observing for a while, Kevin looked at Begetto. Begetto rolled his eyes helplessly, carefully opened the lid, and placed the golden egg on the black base.
Kevin rubbed his hands together excitedly.
"Go wash your hands first!"
"Alright, alright." Kevin had no choice but to wash his hands again. After drying the water stains, he carefully extended a finger, gently touching the eggshell.
A strange metallic texture was felt, but at the same time, he could feel warmth emanating from within—giving a feeling full of vitality.
After touching it, Kevin withdrew his finger, his face expressionless.
"This isn't what you want?" Begetto asked with doubt, his expression showing both relief and slight regret. He had seen Kevin's expression when touching collectibles he didn't care much about before—his face would reveal longing, unlike the calmness now. Of course, he didn't know Kevin had grown a lot in the past six months and would no longer easily reveal emotions due to material desire.
Kevin shook his head. "No, this is exactly what I want. The longing in my heart is practically overwhelming me." The longing triggered by this golden egg ranked third among his current desires—first was the Green Bean Man, second the Jade Bone. Without doubt, this golden egg was a B-grade material.
Begetto's smile vanished instantly. Looking at Kevin, he shook his head helplessly. See? I knew it would be targeted.
"Alright, alright. This golden egg isn't fertilized, so it's actually not very useful to me anymore. But the reason you came looking for me is probably because you know that, at least according to currently available information, the one I have is the only one."
Kevin nodded. Seeing the other party's stance, he was likely willing to trade—but with conditions attached. Regardless of conditions, having the intention to trade was a good thing.
"I saw you have a potion customization service on your potion list?" Begetto asked.
Oh, so he wants to customize a potion. Kevin nodded in response. "There is indeed such a service. But what kind of potion do you want to customize? Don't think too ridiculously, and I can't guarantee the time required for research." These were conditions that had to be stated in advance.
Begetto nodded. "I won't make things difficult for you. What I want is veterinary medicine—specifically, medicine that can provide high-quality nutrition for animals."
"Animal nutrient supplements?" Kevin looked at the other party.
"Exactly." This truly fit his identity as a Conservation Hunter. However, this customization request was indeed something Kevin had not expected at all.
"Is it customized specifically for a certain animal, or is it a popular model for the general public?"
"I need a popular type with broad adaptability. And I need you to help me customize two kinds: one for carnivorous animals and one for herbivorous animals."
Kevin thought for a moment and asked again, "Then you should have quite a few high-energy materials here for making related feeds, right? Both high-grade and low-grade?" These materials were essential. Even if they couldn't be used directly for potion making, they were important for reference.
Begetto nodded.
The two tacitly began discussing specific details. In the end, both parties reached an agreement on conditions.
Begetto reluctantly pushed the golden egg toward Kevin, then asked curiously, "Since you need to touch it before determining if it's what you want, then why were you so sure from the start that the golden egg was what you needed?" From the beginning, Kevin's words and actions showed certainty the golden egg was what he wanted, rather than confirming after touching. There was still a difference here. He felt he shouldn't have been mistaken.
Kevin just smiled slightly and didn't offer an explanation. Should he tell him he had Neon use her Nen ability to tell his fortune? This could also be considered an interesting application of Neon's Nen ability. When Kevin found information about the golden egg and determined its specific location, the idea of coming here arose. So he had Neon perform a divination. The information obtained showed this action would be very smooth, and perhaps he could even obtain additional information he wanted. So he came here.
"How many days do you plan to stay here?" Seeing Kevin didn't answer, Begetto didn't mind and instead asked about other things.
Kevin thought for a moment. "No, it's enough to understand the potions you need and related supporting materials. The topic of animal nutrient supplements is quite interesting." It wouldn't take too long to get relevant information from Begetto, and learning how to make feed wasn't difficult either. He had now obtained the golden egg and couldn't wait to go back and try to make new potions.
Looking at Kevin like this, Begetto smiled and suddenly said, "I have an interesting piece of news here. I bet you'll be interested."
Kevin's eyes narrowed slightly. He remembered Neon's prophecy before he left. Under normal circumstances, Kevin wouldn't seek out Neon for a prophecy, but if something was going on, he wouldn't mind getting a prediction to prevent unexpected events. It was already the end of April now. Neon's prophecy was actually just one sentence.
Besides the smooth operation, he would also obtain additional information, and this information was exactly what he wanted. So, he came here.
"You guy, you couldn't have already guessed what I'm about to say, could you?" Begetto stared closely at Kevin, his eyes filled with surprise and suspicion. This made him a bit confused about Kevin's information channels.
Kevin didn't speak, just glanced at the golden egg. If he wasn't sure what the additional information was before coming, after seeing that the golden egg was exactly what he needed, he could probably guess. He didn't believe Begetto hadn't explored information about the Golden Chicken and golden egg. Since it was confirmed that the Golden Chicken truly existed, and the golden egg was real, given Begetto's identity as a Conservation Hunter, he must have tried to obtain information in this regard.
"Alright, just as you thought. Well, facing a rare beast like the Golden Chicken, I did spend quite a bit of time searching for relevant information." After speaking, Begetto extended a finger and said seriously and solemnly, "I even found their habitat."
"Really?" Without a doubt, this news was exactly what Kevin had been dreaming of. Because this meant a possibility of finding a stable supply channel for B-grade materials—its importance was self-evident.
"Don't get excited yet." A look of extreme regret appeared on Begetto's face again. "Things are not as simple as you imagine. The Golden Chicken's habitat is very hidden. By the time I got there, it was already too late. I don't know how many Golden Chickens there were originally, but the number was definitely not large, and the key is that they are all gone. Judging from traces left at the time, someone got there first."
Kevin didn't speak, quietly waiting for Begetto to continue.
"Later, I found the provider of the Golden Chicken and golden egg. According to the information he provided, it can be confirmed that this Golden Chicken escaped. It's very likely it escaped when they encountered another group of people in their habitat. It's a shame. When that guy saw the Golden Chicken, he thought it was some strange new animal. He used force to capture it and ended up accidentally killing the Golden Chicken." This meant these Golden Chickens were very fragile.
Kevin frowned, thought for a moment, and asked, "Then the trail ends here?"
Begetto nodded. "That's right, so I didn't continue the investigation. If the golden egg is very important to you, you can continue searching based on the information I provided to save more time—otherwise you'll have to come running to find me again."
"Thanks, this information is very crucial." The main reason was that Kevin was currently unsure whether the golden egg could be used to make the potion he wanted. If the required potion could indeed be made, then a stable material supply channel became extremely important. For both emotional and logical reasons, he must follow the clues and investigate further to see if he could find more useful information. However, thinking of Neon's prophecy, the golden egg could basically be confirmed as the material he wanted.
Just then, a roar came from outside. It sounded like some kind of explosive blast.
Kevin's brows furrowed slightly.
Begetto didn't explain, instead looking at Kevin and saying, "In the past six months, your strength has improved quite a bit."
"Yes, I'm quite satisfied with my growth rate during this period." Kevin replied.
"Then do you want to participate in this matter? I currently need a strong fighting force to assist."
Kevin had never asked about the follow-up to that incident six months ago, but he could guess from the surrounding situation that the subsequent situation was not very optimistic. In fact, he hadn't planned to get involved in this matter in the first place, which was why he never asked. But now it seemed Begetto intended to invite him to participate.
Kevin thought for a moment and asked, "Tell me, what changes have happened here?"