The narrative follows Reito, a young boy who realizes he has memories of a past life and possesses knowledge beyond his years. Born into a peasant family in a remote village, Reito is the youngest of six children and is subjected to harsh treatment, particularly from his elder brother. His family adheres to a cruel custom where all but the eldest son are treated as slaves. Reito's primary motivation is to escape this life and become an adventurer, aiming for independence.
At the age of seven, Reito receives his status and skills, which are surprisingly simple: "Magic Control," "Archery," "Earth Magic," and "Life Magic." Disappointed by the lack of "protagonist-like" abilities, he nevertheless uses this milestone to declare his intention to leave home. He confronts his parents, subtly blaming his elder brother for various mishaps to justify his departure. His plan succeeds, as his parents are more concerned with his elder brother's reputation and romantic entanglements, effectively trapping the brother at home. Reito packs his handmade backpack, containing a knife, bow and arrows, and self-made healing potions, and leaves his family's stable home.
His first stop is a secluded apothecary run by an old woman he calls "Grandma." Grandma, who resembles a witch and taught him basic potion-making in exchange for chores, gives him a farewell gift: several bottles of advanced potions and a hooded cloak. Reito then sets off on the road, heading towards the nearest town. He reflects on his limited knowledge of practical skills, realizing that true "cheat" knowledge requires more than just theoretical understanding.
Upon reaching the town of Lidfin, a hub city of about 3,000 people, Reito learns about the cost of entry and the various horse-drawn carriage routes. He chooses a shorter, less expensive route to the town of Nitz, as he is a novice traveler. During the journey, he encounters a group of travelers whose employer, Nilva, suffers from severe motion sickness. Reito, using his knowledge of herbs, concocts a makeshift remedy that, unbeknownst to Nilva, is a sleeping potion. This action, while effective, earns him a stern warning from his escorts, Gring and Glade, about the potential consequences of deceiving others with medicine. They explain that in this world, where potions are common, knowledge of specific remedies is rare, and people are often skeptical.
The journey continues, and Reito demonstrates his resourcefulness. At a campsite, he uses his Earth Magic to create a makeshift plate for roasting rabbit meat he hunted, impressing the other travelers with his cooking skills and the quality of his preparation, which involves proper blood draining. He also learns that while magic exists, its application is largely self-taught and personal, with little sharing of knowledge. He discovers that some magic, like "Life Magic," can produce water and fire, but more complex spells like cleaning are rare.
During the journey, Reito also encounters a young, arrogant merchant who boasts about his supposed "Business" skill and his connections in the capital. Reito, unimpressed, subtly mocks him. He also learns about "Magic Circles," which are used for various magical effects, and receives one from a member of his escort party, Hiter, which is designed to emit a pleasant scent.
The narrative concludes with Reito continuing his journey, having gained valuable experience and insights into the world, its magic system, and its inhabitants. He is on his way to register as an adventurer, ready to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
